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2009 Volkswagen Tiguan Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.03
Based on 51 Owner Reviews â–¶
Jovan | March 31, 2025
The 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan is a compact SUV that marked Volkswagen's entry into this popular segment. It's a 5-door SUV offering a blend of German engineering and practicality. The first generation Tiguan ran from 2007-2017 globally, with the 2009 model being part of the early years. Key trims included the S, SE, and SEL. New, it ranged from around $23,000 to $33,000. It stood out for its sporty handling and upscale interior compared to some competitors.
The Good

The 2009 Tiguan offered a spirited driving experience, thanks to its turbocharged engine. Comfort was a strong suit, with supportive seats and a composed ride. Its design was understated yet sophisticated. For practical buyers, its compact size made it easy to maneuver, while emotional buyers appreciated the European driving dynamics and premium feel.

The Bad

Potential weaknesses of the 2009 Tiguan include possible turbocharger issues, oil leaks, and electrical problems. Some owners have reported issues with the timing chain tensioner. Regular maintenance and careful inspection are crucial. Also, the fuel economy wasn't class-leading, and the rear seat space was somewhat limited compared to rivals.

2009 Volkswagen Tiguan: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4
  • Horsepower: 200 hp @ 5100 rpm
  • Fuel Economy:
    • City: 18-20 mpg (depending on FWD/AWD)
    • Highway: 24-26 mpg (depending on FWD/AWD)
  • 0-60 Times: Around 7.5-8.0 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: 2,200 lbs (when properly equipped)
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • S: Cloth upholstery, keyless entry, air conditioning, 8-speaker audio system, power windows and locks.
    • SE: Leatherette upholstery, heated front seats, sunroof, upgraded audio system, alloy wheels.
    • SEL: Leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, premium audio system, navigation system, power driver's seat, auto-dimming rearview mirror.
  • Transmission: 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic
  • Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive (FWD) or 4Motion all-wheel drive (AWD)

2009 Volkswagen Tiguan Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2009
Make Volkswagen
Model Tiguan
Trim -
Style All-Wheel Drive
Type Minivan
Category Standard Sport Utility Vehicle
Manufacturing Details
Made In Germany
Manufacturing City NECKARSULM
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 5000 pounds
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine 1.984000 4
Engine Size 1.9L
Engine Cylinders 4
Transmission -
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds -
Drivetrain All-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

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What Problems Does the 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan Have?

The 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan has several frequently reported problems. Turbocharger failure is a common concern, potentially leading to costly repairs. Oil leaks, particularly around the valve cover and rear main seal, are also frequently reported. The timing chain tensioner has been known to fail, which can cause severe engine damage if not addressed promptly. Some owners have experienced electrical issues, including problems with the power windows, door locks, and infotainment system.
Recalls for the 2009 Tiguan have included issues related to fuel pump flanges cracking, potentially causing fuel leaks and fire hazards. There have also been recalls related to airbag malfunctions. Long-term reliability can be a concern due to the aforementioned turbocharger, oil leak, and timing chain issues. Regular maintenance, including frequent oil changes and inspections, is crucial to mitigating these risks. Pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended to identify any existing or potential problems before purchasing a used 2009 Tiguan.

How long will the 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan last?

With proper maintenance, a 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan can realistically reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more. Given its age, many will have already surpassed this. Longevity heavily depends on diligent upkeep, including regular oil changes, timely replacement of wear items (brakes, tires), and addressing potential issues like turbocharger problems and oil leaks promptly. Weaknesses over time tend to revolve around the turbocharger, timing chain, and various seals and gaskets which can degrade, leading to leaks. Neglecting maintenance will significantly shorten its lifespan.
Positive Owner Reviews
Tomas cesareo
I love my new tiguan my family is so happy with the new car the space in the car it?s perfect for my kids and me
Beatiful
The car is beautiful but to expensive for my budget because my bank account is to low I'm on disability
Beatiful
Ecdelent yes this car run very good end more room in the car sorry that car is expensive. For my budget that way I doesn't buy that car my bank account is to low
Negative Owner Reviews
KU fan
I hated it,it's been at the repair shop many times, one time for 3 months, even though it was repaired we had to pay, 2,000 for the repair, I called corporate, even though many of the same model had the same problem there has been no recall. it decided to stop working for no reason. We payed 30,000, and we payed a third of the price on repairs. Very disappointed, not reliable
Blade10@
Will never buy a VW ever again this vehicle was an absolute nightmare. 1000kms after warranty everything started going. All regular maintenance was done before but that didn't prevent anythif
Laidy
I haven?t even owned this car for a year yet. I bought it from a dealership and everything looked good came with history and service reports and passed e-check. So far I have spent $900 in about 6 months. All engin failure problems. This car has the worst reliability ever. It goes from performing like a brand new car one day to leaving you completely stranded the next. This car is nothing but engin problems and electrical problems. Also if you live somewhere with winter like I do (OH) all the engine problems come out during cold weather. I literally have to turn it on about 30 minutes before using just to try and prevent more engin failures. I had a 2002 Honda Civic with 200,000 miles on it. Most reliable car I have ever had. I totaled it twice and with all that in mind it never left me anywhere not to mention it cost less than half of what I paid for the piece of junk I currently own. It?s clear that Wolkswagen is inferior to many other brands. NEVER AGAIN, I am now afraid of all European cars.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan came with a reasonable array of tech and safety features for its time. Standard features included an 8-speaker audio system, keyless entry, and anti-lock brakes (ABS). Higher trims (SE and SEL) added features like a sunroof, heated front seats, leatherette or leather upholstery, and an upgraded audio system. Optional features included a navigation system and a premium sound system.
In terms of driver-assistance, the 2009 Tiguan was relatively basic compared to modern standards. It included electronic stability control (ESC) and traction control. It lacked advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking, which were not yet common in this class at the time.
Safety features included front and side airbags, and side curtain airbags. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) gave the 2009 Tiguan a 4-star overall safety rating. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) gave it a "Good" rating in most crash tests.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Black Uni
Candy White
Reflex Silver Metallic
Shadow Blue Metallic
Night Blue Metallic
Silver Leaf Metallic
Mocca Anthracite Pearl
Offroad Gray Metallic
Interior Colors
Titan Black
Latte Macchiato

2009 Volkswagen Tiguan Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan ranged from approximately $23,000 for the base S trim to around $33,000 for a fully equipped SEL model. As of today, used market prices typically range from $4,000 to $8,000 depending on condition, mileage, and trim level. The Tiguan has depreciated significantly due to its age and reported reliability issues. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition, maintenance history, mileage, and the presence of desirable options like all-wheel drive and leather upholstery. Models with documented service records and in excellent condition will command higher prices.

2009 Volkswagen Tiguan Cost of Ownership

The 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan is generally considered moderately costly to own long-term. Insurance costs are average for its class. Fuel costs can be higher than some competitors due to its turbocharged engine and fuel economy. Maintenance and repair costs can be significant, particularly if turbocharger or timing chain issues arise. Parts and labor for European vehicles tend to be more expensive. Budgeting for potential repairs is essential when considering a used 2009 Tiguan.

2009 Volkswagen Tiguan Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2009 Volkswagen Tiguan Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating

2009 Volkswagen Tiguan Recalls & Defects

Engine and Engine Cooling
Recall date 2008-05-28
Recall no. 08v235000
Source NHTSA
Summary Volkswagen IS Recalling 4,079 MY 2008 Passat and 2,500 MY 2009 Tiguan Passenger Vehicles Equipped With 2.0t FSI Ulev II Engines. These Vehicles Have AN Engine Control Module (Ecm) Containing Software That MAY NOT Properly Control Engine Idle With THE AIR Conditioning Turned ON. IN Rare Cases, THE ECM MAY Unexpectedly Increase Engine Rpm.
Consequence AN Engine Surge Caused BY AN Unexpected Increase IN Engine RPM MAY Surprise THE Vehicle Operator and CAN Result IN A Crash Without Warning.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect and Update THE ECM Software Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON MAY 30, 2008. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen AT 1-800-893-5298.
Notes Volkswagen Recall NO. 24m9/R7.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:wiring:fuses and Circuit Breakers
Recall date 2013-11-22
Recall no. 13v569000
Source NHTSA
Summary Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2009-2011 Tiguan Vehicles Manufactured July 2007 Through June 2011. DUE TO A Problem With THE Fuse FOR THE Exterior Lights, THE Holder FOR THE Fuse That Controls THE Vehicle's Exterior Lights Circuit MAY Melt.
Consequence IF THE Holder Melts, There MAY BE A Partial Loss OF Exterior Lighting. Reduced Vehicle Illumination Diminishes THE Vehicle's Visibility, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Volkswagen Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Fuse, Free OF Charge. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen AT 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's Recall Number IS 97z9/2v.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date 2013-11-22
Recall no. 13v569000
Source NHTSA
Summary Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2009-2011 Tiguan Vehicles Manufactured July 2007 Through June 2011. DUE TO A Problem With THE Fuse FOR THE Exterior Lights, THE Holder FOR THE Fuse That Controls THE Vehicle's Exterior Lights Circuit MAY Melt.
Consequence IF THE Holder Melts, There MAY BE A Partial Loss OF Exterior Lighting. Reduced Vehicle Illumination Diminishes THE Vehicle's Visibility, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Volkswagen Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Fuse, Free OF Charge. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen AT 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's Recall Number IS 97z9/2v.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Fuel System, Gasoline
Recall date 2014-07-21
Recall no. 14v441000
Source NHTSA
Summary Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2009-2014 Tiguan Vehicles Manufactured July 2007 TO June 2014. When Using Winterized Fuel, IN Certain Conditions Bubbles MAY Form IN THE Fuel System Which Could Result IN THE Vehicle Stalling.
Consequence A Vehicle Stall Increases THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Volkswagen Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Update THE Vehicle's Software TO Increase THE Fuel Pump Pressure, Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin August 19, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen Customer Service AT 1-800-822-8987. Volkswagen's Number FOR This Recall IS 24av/2w.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2009 Volkswagen Tiguan Insurance

Insurance for a 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Minivan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan Compare to Other Minivan?

The 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan competed against vehicles like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape. In terms of performance, the Tiguan offered a more engaging driving experience than the CR-V and RAV4, thanks to its turbocharged engine. However, its reliability was not as strong as the Honda or Toyota. Feature-wise, the Tiguan's higher trims offered a more premium feel than the base models of its rivals.
Compared to the Ford Escape, the Tiguan had a more refined interior, but the Escape offered a wider range of engine options. Price-wise, the Tiguan was often slightly more expensive than some of its competitors, particularly when new. Alternatives to consider include the Honda CR-V for its reliability and practicality, the Toyota RAV4 for its longevity, and the Mazda CX-5 (later models) for a similar sporty driving experience with potentially better reliability than the Tiguan. Given the Tiguan's age, reliability concerns, and current market prices, a newer, more reliable alternative might be a wiser choice for many buyers.

Ranks #1638 SUV

1 2023 Toyota 4Runner (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid (5.0★)
3 2023 Lexus GX (0.0★)
4 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV (0.0★)
5 2024 Subaru Crosstrek (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW iX (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Bronco Sport (3.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB (0.0★)
9 2024 Chevrolet Trax (5.0★)
10 2023 Audi A4 allroad (0.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Kona N (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan ARIYA (5.0★)
1638 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan a Good Minivan?

The 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan is suitable for someone who appreciates a sporty driving experience and a more upscale interior in a compact SUV, and who is willing to accept some potential reliability risks. It is only worth buying used and only if a thorough pre-purchase inspection reveals no major issues and it's priced accordingly. Opting for a well-maintained SE or SEL trim can provide more desirable features. However, given its age and potential for costly repairs, buyers should carefully weigh the pros and cons and consider more reliable alternatives in the same price range. A knowledgeable owner who can perform some maintenance themselves might find it a rewarding vehicle, but for the average buyer, a more reliable option is often preferable.

2009 Volkswagen Tiguan Owner Reviews

4.03
Consumer Rating, Based on 51 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Deb on April 12, 2023

Tiguan cooling fan stays running

I purchased my 2009 Tiguan used just weeks ago, the cooling fan stays on keeping the engine lights on, I read other customers reports of the same issue, the fan staying on until the battery runs down, I called VW and was told it's my problem, I honestly think the company should have a recall and fix this issue with the cars since it's a manufacturer defect

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Paulmeigs on May 15, 2020

Nice car for the price.

This car is very comfortable to drive. I like the handling and passenger comfort. I bought this used, I will buy a newer one when I replace my family car.

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mike on February 20, 2020

good condition

this car metall my needs plety leg room i recommen this car to a friend to purchase good gas miles take it for test drive to see how good

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Grandma on January 1, 2020

Repairs are outrageous

Had to spend $3000 every year in repairs on this vehicle. Just got rid of the thing. Will never buy another VW product. Mine was top of the line everything. Had all the maintenance done and the final straw was major oil leaks at only 140,000 k

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JOHNNY on November 2, 2019

TYPICAL GERMAN GARBAGE

This car represents the build quality of German cars which is complete garbage with unnecessary engineering that makes it more difficult and expensive to work on. The 2.0 tsi engine in these cars has many defects that make it break down well below 100,000 miles. Because of a faulty direct injection design the engines have to be disassembled and cleaned of carbon at great expense to the customer every 60,000 miles or major engine damage can occur. The engine is also full of unnecessary screens that become dislodged or clogged restricting oil passages and causing major engine damage or complete failure. The timing chain tensioner and water pump are also known to fail at low mileage and cause major engine damage. One of the worst engines ever produced by one of the least reliable auto manufacturers. Stick with a Honda if you want a good investment

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Chris on September 14, 2019

Great Value! This car is highly rated!

Volkswagen's first small SUV is luxurious, well finished and impressively quiet. It straddles the small and upscale compact SUV classes. Seating is roomy and comfortable. Handling is agile, and the smooth engine provides good acceleration, Panoramic Sunroof

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KU fan on March 30, 2019

horrible car

I hated it,it's been at the repair shop many times, one time for 3 months, even though it was repaired we had to pay, 2,000 for the repair, I called corporate, even though many of the same model had the same problem there has been no recall. it decided to stop working for no reason. We payed 30,000, and we payed a third of the price on repairs. Very disappointed, not reliable

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MarianneM on October 22, 2018

Highly recommend the VW Tiguan

Have always owned a Volkswagen. I love the Tiguan, and I received regular compliments on the style (both interior and exterior) as well as the comfort of the ride. So much fun to drive.

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Ktbug41989 on July 24, 2018

Quiet, quick and cute

I loved the Tiguan as soon as I drove one. Very quiet cabin. Smooth ride. Dependable. Basic interior but has any of the options you'd want.

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Blade10@ on July 16, 2018

Horrible never again

Will never buy a VW ever again this vehicle was an absolute nightmare. 1000kms after warranty everything started going. All regular maintenance was done before but that didn't prevent anythif

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Jovan

Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.