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2018 Volkswagen Tiguan Recall: What Owners Need to Know
2018 Volkswagen Tiguan Recall Alert
Important Safety Notice for Tiguan LWB Owners
Urgent Safety Recall Notice
Vehicles Affected: Approximately 5,500 model-year 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan long-wheelbase SUVs manufactured between June 2017 and March 2018.
The Safety Concern
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has identified a potential safety issue with the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan's taillight assemblies. The backup lights may not meet federal minimum brightness requirements, creating two significant risks:
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- Reduced visibility: Other drivers may not see your vehicle reversing, especially in low-light conditions
- Increased collision risk: The dim lights could lead to accidental backing into obstacles or other vehicles
This defect particularly affects the inner taillight assemblies on both sides of the vehicle. Volkswagen has determined that these components don't provide adequate illumination during reverse gear operation.
Volkswagen's Recall Solution
Volkswagen has authorized a complete repair program at no cost to vehicle owners:
- Free replacement: Dealers will install new inner taillight assemblies that meet all brightness specifications
- Quick service: The procedure typically takes less than one hour at authorized service centers
- Comprehensive coverage: All parts and labor costs are covered by Volkswagen, regardless of warranty status
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What Tiguan Owners Should Do
Immediate Action Steps
- Check recall status: Visit NHTSA's recall website and enter your 17-digit VIN
- Contact Volkswagen: Call VW Customer Service at 800-893-5298 for specific information about your vehicle
- Schedule repair: Use MotorVero's dealer locator to find an authorized service center
Additional Resources
- NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline: 888-327-4236 (TTY 800-424-9153)
- Official recall number: 69U5 (Volkswagen internal code)
- Recall announcement date: November 15, 2018
Understanding Your Rights
As a vehicle owner affected by this safety recall, you should know:
- Federal law requires all recall repairs to be performed free of charge
- You have the right to choose any authorized Volkswagen dealership for the repair
- If you've already paid for this repair, you may be eligible for reimbursement
Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I know if my Tiguan is affected?
All affected vehicles have VINs falling within these ranges: 3VV2B7AX9JMXXXXXX through 3VV5B7AX1JMXXXXXX. The easiest way to check is through NHTSA's VIN lookup tool.
Is it safe to drive my Tiguan before the repair?
While the vehicle remains operable, Volkswagen recommends extra caution when reversing, especially at night or in parking lots. Consider using your hazard lights temporarily when backing up if you're concerned about visibility.
How long will the repair take?
Most dealerships can complete the taillight assembly replacement in about 45-60 minutes, though you should schedule an appointment in advance.
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Related Recalls and Service Bulletins
2018 Volkswagen Tiguan owners should also be aware of these related service actions:
- Fuel rail pressure sensor replacement (NHTSA 18V-755)
- Front passenger airbag calibration update
- Sunroof drain tube inspection
Check with your local Volkswagen dealer for complete information about all open recalls on your vehicle.
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Need to Find a Dealer for Service?
Use MotorVero's Service Center Locator to:
- Find your nearest authorized Volkswagen dealership
- Check dealer service hours and availability
- Read verified customer reviews of service departments
- Schedule your recall repair online
All recall repairs are performed at no cost to you, regardless of where you choose to have the service done.
Why This Recall Matters
While this might seem like a minor lighting issue, proper backup light functionality is crucial for:
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- Pedestrian safety: Nearly 300 fatalities annually involve backover accidents
- Property damage prevention: Dim reverse lights contribute to parking lot collisions
- Legal compliance: All vehicles must meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 108
By addressing this recall promptly, you're helping make roads safer for everyone.
Stay Informed About Future Recalls
To receive automatic notifications about future recalls:
- Register your vehicle at NHTSA.gov/recalls
- Download Volkswagen's Car-Net app for model-specific alerts
- Keep your contact information updated with your local dealership
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MotorVero also provides free recall monitoring services when you create a vehicle profile in our garage tool.
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Last Updated On Apr, 12-2025