VW Tiguan 1-FL(5N)
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
170–184 PS
2.0L TDI Diesel
Top diesel with AWD
Decent150 PS
1.4L TSI Benzin
5 weaknesses
Stay Away!Generations
Engine Overview
The VW Tiguan 1-FL is available with 4 engine variants — from 136 to 184 hp. 2 variants had engine changes — the model year is crucial.
The VW 2.0L TDI (Diesel, 170–184 PS) has the CFGB (2.0L TDI) — rated: "Be Careful", 5 known weaknesses.
The VW 2.0L TDI CR (Diesel, 136–177 PS) comes with 2 different engines: CBAB (2011–2016, Be Careful) und CBBB (2011–2016, Stay Away!). Pay attention to the model year for the 2.0L TDI CR!
The VW 4Motion (Diesel, 136–184 PS) comes with 3 different engines: CBAB (2011–2016, Be Careful) und CBBB (2011–2016, Stay Away!) und CFGB (2011–2016, Be Careful). Pay attention to the model year for the 4Motion!
The VW 1.4L TSI (Benziner, 150 PS) has the CAVA (1.4L TSI) — rated: "Stay Away!", 5 known weaknesses.
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Front control arm bushings fail early TÜV inspections flag suspension faults on the Tiguan 5N at an elevated rate. Control arm bushings tear as early as 50,000–75,000 km. Repair cost including fitting and wheel alignment: 200–550 €. Symptoms: Knocking or banging over bumps, especially at the front; vehicle pulls slightly under braking; steering unsettled on rough surfaces from 60,000 km | Low | |
| Suspension springs break and dampers wear out Springs can rust through at the lower spring seat and break, particularly at the rear. Shock absorber wear is elevated. Full suspension repair including springs and dampers: 600–1,400 €. Symptoms: Knocking over bumps; vehicle sits lower than normal on one side; bouncy behaviour after bumps; vehicle pulls under braking from 100,000 km | Medium |
Top Reported Issues
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Known Problems and Issues
A total of 38 weaknesses have been documented for the VW Tiguan 1-FL (2011–2016) — 26 engine-related and 12 vehicle-related. 2 problem engines: CBBB (2.0L TDI CR), CAVA (1.4L TSI). Typical issues affect Suspension, Gearbox, Brakes, Steering.
Tiguan (CBAB, 2011–2016) — Be Careful: EGR cooler leaking — engine damage risk, Piezo injector failure (common rail), Timing belt: replacement interval must be observed. Power: 136–140 PS.
Tiguan (CBBB, 2011–2016) — Stay Away!: Timing chain wear, Increased oil consumption from piston rings, Water pump failure. Power: 163–177 PS.
Tiguan (CFGB, 2011–2016) — Be Careful: EGR cooler crack and coolant ingress, Recall diesel scandal (EA189), Turbocharger boost pressure control valve failed. Power: 170–184 PS.
Tiguan (CAVA, 2011–2016) — Stay Away!: Timing chain stretch EA111 (Alhambra), Timing chain of the EA111 family stretches, Camshaft adjuster bolt loosens — oil loss. Power: 150 PS.
What to watch out for with the VW Tiguan? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problems and weaknesses does the VW Tiguan 1-FL have? +
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Which engine is recommended? +
Which VW Tiguan 1-FL engine is the most fun? +
Is the VW Tiguan 1-FL worth buying used? +
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Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee