2013 Volkswagen Tiguan: petrol or diesel?
Petrol, diesel and hybrid versions go wrong in different ways, so each has its own figures from the MOTs these cars had during 2023–2025. Pick the one you’re looking at: the fuel is on the logbook and in the car’s MOT history.
Hybrid versions had too few MOTs for figures of their own, or weren’t sold.
Known faults on every 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan
Reported by owners, mechanics and buying guides for this model and age. Check which engine the car has, as some apply to one engine only.
Power steering that cuts out in the cold
Steering assistance can fail, especially in sub-zero temperatures. It's often the control unit, sometimes the steering rack.
At the viewing: Make sure the steering feels light and consistent from a cold start.
Melting fuse box and electrical faults
Fuse boxes have been known to melt from high currents, causing a range of electrical faults.
At the viewing: Test all the electrics and look for any warning lights.
Electronic parking brake that won't release
The electronic handbrake can refuse to release, sometimes simply because the driver's seatbelt isn't fastened or the clutch isn't fully pressed.
At the viewing: With your seatbelt on and the clutch fully down, check the parking brake releases cleanly.
Climate control switchgear
Air-con or climate control faults are often the switchgear rather than the compressor.
At the viewing: Try every climate control setting and check it blows cold.
Looking at a Volkswagen Tiguan?
Check the actual car: its own MOT history, mileage and what to ask the seller. Free, no sign-up.
Other years
Every year of the Volkswagen Tiguan compared
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2025 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2024 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2023 | 1,169 | Tyres 17% |
| 2022 | 20,352 | Tyres 25% |
| 2021 | 47,292 | Tyres 25% |
| 2020 | 73,556 | Tyres 26% |
| 2019 | 106,748 | Tyres 28% |
| 2018 | 87,687 | Tyres 29% |
| 2017 | 78,400 | Tyres 28% |
| 2016 | 55,370 | Tyres 28% |
| 2015 | 59,433 | Suspension 36% |
| 2014 | 45,791 | Suspension 39% |
| 2012 | 26,911 | Suspension 43% |
| 2011 | 20,263 | Suspension 47% |
| 2010 | 19,845 | Suspension 54% |
| 2009 | 18,184 | Suspension 55% |
| 2008 | 12,441 | Suspension 56% |