Crankcase (pcv) Problems of Volkswagen Tiguan - part 1

I am filing a safety complaint regarding my 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan se r-line with approximately 54,000 miles. The vehicle experienced a significant engine-related failure involving the oil separator/pcv system. Volkswagen diagnosed a failed oil separator/breather that caused excessive crankcase pressure, resulting in substantial oil expulsion and damage/leaks involving the plastic/composite oil pan and timing-chain cover. Volkswagen also identified oil contamination around engine sensors and a p0341 camshaft-position fault. The vehicle has previously experienced epc/check-engine warnings and entered limp mode, creating concern about potential loss of power while driving. The dealer’s repair required replacement of the oil separator/pcv system, oil pan, timing-chain cover and associated gaskets, along with cleaning oil from the engine compartment and sensors. The repair estimate was approximately $2,490, later reduced to approximately $2,300. Volkswagen declined my request for goodwill assistance. I am concerned that a failure of the oil separator/pcv system can create excessive crankcase pressure and cause oil to be expelled from the engine, damage other engine components, contaminate sensors, trigger fault codes, and potentially result in reduced engine power or limp mode. Sudden oil loss or loss of engine power can create a serious safety hazard, particularly at highway speeds or in traffic. This vehicle has also experienced recurring alignment problems, requiring three alignments in approximately six months, raising additional concerns about the vehicle’s overall reliability and safety. I request that NHTSA investigate whether oil-separator/pcv failures and their resulting oil loss, component damage, sensor faults, and potential loss of power represent a broader safety defect in 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan vehicles.

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My 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan has an ongoing excessive oil consumption problem that began in April 2025 when the low oil warning illuminated. I added approximately one quart of oil and contacted the Volkswagen dealership. The dealership instructed me not to add oil myself if the warning returned and to bring the vehicle in for evaluation. On may 12, 2025, I brought the vehicle to the Volkswagen dealership and an oil consumption test was performed. The problem continued. I returned the vehicle on July 25, 2025, and a second oil consumption test was performed. The dealership subsequently replaced the pcv valve in the engine in an attempt to correct the oil consumption problem. On August 25, 2026, the check oil warning illuminated again, indicating that the problem has continued despite two oil consumption tests and replacement of the pcv valve. The dealership is now requesting that I bring the vehicle back for a third oil consumption test. The vehicle has repeatedly been made available to the Volkswagen dealership for inspection and repair. Each time it is taken in for this problem, the dealership keeps the vehicle for approximately one week, and there has been little communication regarding the status of the vehicle unless I contact the dealership myself. I am concerned that the underlying cause of the excessive oil consumption remains unresolved despite repeated testing and an attempted repair. I am concerned about continued oil loss, potential engine damage or engine failure, and the safety of operating the vehicle while the cause of the oil consumption remains unresolved. The vehicle is available for further inspection.

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2022 vw Tiguan se had pcv (positive crankshaft ventilation) also known as air-oil separator failed just outside of warranty creating a pressure cooker like effect in the engine which caused several seals and hoses, (such as the upper/front timing cover gaskets, rear main seal, and valve stem seals) to fail. The oil pan gasket was also destroyed. Although I was fortunate enough to be able to drive from my house around the corner to my local mechanic, this could have become a dangerous scenario considering most of my driving is done on busy freeways -- this could have caused severe oil slicking, sudden loss of power, and/or total engine failure. All of which could have resulted in a fatal, multi-vehicle accident. This appears to be a relatively common incident involving this particular year and model according to a new jersey federal case ([xxx] et al v. Volkswagen [xxx] et al. ), and several other complaints found. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

Vehicle abruptly lost power on the highway and limited itself to 3000 rpm. Pcv valve failed and oil pan cracked at only 45k vehicle miles.

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Pcv value/oil leak is a known issue with this specific model of car. The repair I was quited was over $2700 when the car is just out of warranty. There was no oil light indication showing that the oil was low! I only checked everything out because I saw oil in the drive way. The car read zero oil on the dip stick. I added 4 quarts and finallt started to get into operating range. My wife drives this car and could have been in a major accident if it hadn't been noticed. [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

The pcv valve does not last past 60k miles. Multiple forums and customers stating this. When the failure shows up as a check engine light symptom it has already caused a major oil leak in the crank shaft that leaks with the car off at about 500ml and is significantly worse while driving- up to a quart of oil loss from driving 10miles. Vw has had issues with the pcv valve design from 2012. I bought a 2012 passat but it did not leak till well after 200k miles but the code would continuously go on and off.

Noticed the check engine oil light started coming on periodically between oil changes 3-4 years ago, but no external or noticeable oil leaks. Was told by vw multiple times it’s standard for vws to burn oil. I started having to top off oil much more frequently over the last year, 1 quart per 1000 miles. The check engine oil light would turn on every month at random times while driving. Took my car to a shop; they removed 02 sensor 1 and borescoped the exhaust system. Found oil leaks from valve seals, leaking into the exhaust manifold. A few weeks later, the check engine light came on for the first time (codes: p24d6 and u3501). Brought car to another shop; they scanned the car and the following codes were found: u350100 (passive/sporadic) - control module input power "a" circuit low u041600 (passive/sporatic) - invalid data received from vehicle dynamics control module) p003000 (passive/sporatic) - O2 sensor heater control circuit bank 1 sensor 1 u105400 (passive/sporadic) - information electronics 1 control unit no communication p24d600 (passive/sporadic) - evaporative emission (evap) system pressure sensor/switch b circuit range performance. The second shop also stated the valve stem seals needed to be replaced in addition to the upstream oxygen sensor and pcv valve. The car was brought to Volkswagen for repair under the extended warranty. Volkswagen confirmed the pcv valve and valve stem seals were bad and needed to be replaced. Vw also noted smoke coming from the exhaust. The vehicle has 53k miles on it.

I own a 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan with approximately 24,000 miles that was purchased used with only 2,300 miles and a clean title. The vehicle has developed significant oil consumption/seepage issues related to the ea888 2. 0t engine. It began with oil seeping around the oil fill tube and cap due to a failed crankcase pressure assembly (pcv/oil separator). I replaced it myself with genuine Volkswagen parts, but the oil level continues to drop after normal driving, indicating either a residual leak or excessive consumption. The dealership denied warranty coverage over the phone solely because the vehicle was in a prior accident (repaired with oem parts), without performing any inspection or oil consumption test. This appears to be a known defect in these engines. Volkswagen considers up to 1 quart every 1,200 miles “normal,” which I believe is unreasonable for a near-new vehicle. I am concerned about long-term engine damage and safety if oil levels drop critically while driving. Please investigate this matter for a potential recall or safety action.

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After oil changes (always maintained at dealerships) it would require a quart of oil with in 2 days. Random starts will blow smoke out the rear. Random sluggish behavior. Dealership confirmed pcv valve is causing a buildup in engine pressure which caused a premature oil pan gasket leak. Without full teardown cannot know full extent of damages caused. (which spills out of the bottom and towards tires. . . . . ) dealership and fellow Tiguan owners have all reported the same issue! with a repair cost of $1,000-8,000+. Same with alot of other years as well. . The date below that I will list is for when the problem was fully confirmed (89k miles) but has always been an issue told its fine . . . Really noticed it after (68k miles) when I purchased the vehicle. With how many people are dealing with this it is hard to understand how we dont see an open recall for them. . . . . Also dealer said pvc valves are on back order and have been. Why should one replace with oem if they won't acknowledge its a faulty part?.

Excessive oil consumption. Paid out of pocket and 2 weeks later the same issue. Dealer is aware of this common problem and refuses to do anything. These vehicles have faulty piston rings and pcv valves.

The contact owns a 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact's dad who was following behind the vehicle noticed oil splashing onto the front windshield of his vehicle. The contact's dad then noticed while the contact was driving uphill, oil was splashing out of the oil pan. In addition, the contact's dad noticed smoke coming out of the exhaust. The check engine and pcv warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the road. The vehicle was inspected, and the contact's dad noticed that the oil pan was completely empty. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with a cracked oil pan. The contact was informed that the oil pan, gasket, and filter needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact's dad noticed the oil splashing underneath the vehicle again. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the road. The vehicle was inspected, and the contact noticed that oil was spilling out onto the road. The oil pan was empty. The vehicle was towed back to the independent mechanic. The independent mechanic contacted the dealer. The independent mechanic was informed that this was a known failure with the vehicle. The independent mechanic was informed that the failure was that the pcv valve had either failed or was clogged. The independent mechanic was informed that the failure normally occurred between 60,000-100,000 miles. The contact was informed that the failure might recur after the repair, however there was no recall for the failure. The vehicle was being repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 93,000.

Excessive oil consumption caused by the pcv valve failing. The pcv valve failed causing pressure build up in the engine which luckily for me only caused the valve stem seals to pop out of position on the exhaust valves. This caused oil to leak into the combustion chambers and burn through the exhaust. In other known cases this failure has caused the oil pan and timing covers to crack and vehicle will lose its oil all over the roadway. No check engine light came on for me only low oil light every 800 miles starting around the 70,000 mile mark. Dealership determined the cause and failure. Manufacturer determined the cylinder head needed replaced. Dropped car off on Nov. 7 2025 and was given a loaner. Part on backorder. Part came in in February and installed. During test drive the cylinder head failed internal and they had to order the same part again. 6 loaner cars later finally got car back on April 10 2026. Extended warranty covered all but $100 of the $4800 cost.

I am experiencing severe oil consumption and leakage with my 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan. The low oil level light began coming on weekly, and I have had to add oil nearly every week to keep the engine from running dry. Recently, I noticed oil leaking underneath the vehicle and immediately parked it. After parking, the vehicle began leaking oil excessively. The problem appears related to pcv system failure, which has caused multiple oil seals to rupture. After researching online, I found many other Tiguan owners reporting the same issues — including pcv valve failure, cracked oil pans, damaged valve seals, and crankshaft seal failures. My vehicle is no longer under the manufacturer’s warranty, and the dealership has not provided a fix. This defect presents a major safety concern because the engine can suddenly lose oil pressure or seize while driving, leading to sudden loss of power or control, which could cause an accident and potential injury. It appears Volkswagen has been aware of similar issues in other model years, but has not issued a recall or permanent repair for this problem. There is currently a class action lawsuit for the exact same issue for 2022 - 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan but doesn't currently include the 2021 Tiguan that I have. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate these widespread pcv and oil consumption failures in 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan vehicles.

Check engine light came on with excessive oil leaking from engine. Dealer inspected and diagnosed the pcv/oil separator had failed, multiple valve stem seals had failed, and valve stem guides were worn causing excessive crankcase pressure. Dealer recommended cylinder head replacement. Vehicle has been at the dealer a month with the cylinder head on backorder and no timeline for resolution. Dealer indicated thousands of cylinder heads in the queue, with tens of units being distributed per month.

Pcv failure that requires replacement of cylinder head.

My 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan is experiencing excessive engine oil consumption. The oil level drops rapidly between oil changes, and I have had to add oil multiple times to prevent engine damage. The low oil warning light has appeared unexpectedly while driving, creating a safety hazard. I am concerned about potential engine failure, stalling, or loss of power at highway speeds. I have reviewed multiple NHTSA complaints from other 2021 Tiguan owners (ids 11742786, 11741539, 11741067, 11739933) reporting the same oil consumption and low oil pressure issues. This indicates a pattern of defects involving the ea888 2. 0 tsi engine. Volkswagen dealerships often claim this is ‘normal,’ but the frequency and severity of oil loss suggest a mechanical defect involving piston rings, pcv system, or internal engine components. This poses a serious safety risk, especially during long distance travel. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate this issue for the 2021 Tiguan model year.

Due to a faulty pcv valve, the entire engine wiring harness needed to be replaced at 69,000 miles. The valve cover and camshafts were replaced, engine components were reassembled with mandatory bolts and gaskets. Lower timing cover was leaking on the passenger side due to the faulty pcv valve and the caracole canister and leak detection pump. These were replaced along with the canister due to oil contamination. The evap lines were blown out and the n80 valve was replaced. As a result, the vehicle sustained $7,200 in repairs because of the damage to the engine due to the faulty pcv valve.

The crankcase breather valve (pcv system) on my 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan failed, which caused catastrophic engine damage. Vw southtown diagnosed the engine as condemned and stated that a full engine replacement is required. Prior to the engine being condemned, I have already spent $3,787. 59 in repairs at vw southtown addressing recurring oil-related issues caused by the pcv valve being stuck closed. This caused an excessive crankcase pressure buildup of over 0. 5 psi, as documented on the vw service repair order. The failure occurred while my husband was driving our [xxx] son in the car, and the warning message immediately displayed on the dashboard was: “12v battery not charging. Stop engine. ” this sudden loss of engine function and dashboard warning posed a serious safety risk, as it could have resulted in loss of power or control while driving. The problem has been confirmed and documented by an authorized vw service department, including detailed repair orders and technical diagnosis. Prior to failure, there were oil-related warning lights and symptoms of excessive oil pressure, which appeared intermittently and indicated the underlying pcv failure. Research indicates this is a known, widespread issue affecting 2020–2021 Tiguans, with multiple owners reporting breather valve/pcv failures leading to oil loss, excessive crankcase pressure, and engine damage. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

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Vw dealership diagnose by 2021 vw Tiguan with a cracked oil pan and timing cover. The cause was from excessive oil pressure from a failed pcv valve which cracked the plastic oil pan causing excessive oil leak. This occurred driving on the highway and the ecp light on the dash came on with a message "max epinine rpm 3000". Vehicle quickly slowed down and was extremely sluggish to maintain a safe speed with other traffic. Dealer was able to see cracked oil pan and oil leak from timing chain cover and read error codes pointing to the issue. Can physically see crack in oil pan. Oil spilled out from oil pan onto ground when tow truck moved it. Dealer produced a video of the issue and visual see the cracked oil pan and leaking timing chain cover. Ecp light and engine max speed error was displayed while driving on the highway. From my understanding, basically the pcv valve fails and it over pressurizes the crankcase. It can cause the gaskets to fail causing leaks or the oil pan to crack which in our case the oil pan cracked.

At about 60,000 miles a vw dealer told me it was normal for vws to use oil. Now at 80,000 I have a $2,000+ bill b/c the pcv is faulty and the timing cover has failed. I did not get a low dngine oil warning, but mechanic says panic wait it was low ( oil change 4,000 miles ago). This could have led to a seized engine on the interstate. I am upset to learn this is a common problem with this vehicle. It is an expensive repair. From other posters I fear this is not the end of the problem. Vw should recall this part .

Vw Tiguan lost significant acceleration while driving on the highway. Vehicle check engine light came on. Felt like vehicle was going to stall and decelerated to a below highway required speed. Vehicle was inspected by a vw authorized service center and . Verified gff found dtc's p0431, p04f0, p24d6, and p2101 were in fault mode. Significant oil leak also occurred. Failed component was crankcase pressure regulator and lower oil pan and gasket (due to increased pressure from failed pcv valve. ) this was of great concern as the deceleration was significant while on the highway which could cause potential life threatening accidents.

Pcv valve on my car went and caused seals to leak in my engine. This has caused oil to leak onto my exhaust system which poses a fire hazard according to the dealership. Car should not be driven. Many many complaints about this issue of the pcv valve failing have been discovered online. Worried about my car catching fire if I drive it.

The contact owns a 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that while driving 35-40 mph, the engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was leaking oil. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the oil separator, pcv positive crankcase ventilation valve, and gasket needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted. Who confirmed there was no recall coverage. The approximate failure mileage was 56,000.

Pcv failure causing the timing cover to leak oil and causing the oil pan to crack. This is a known issue with vw tsi engines. This pcv is a major issue not only causing the damage above but others are having to replace the rear main seal and crank case because of this. It's now in the shop for the next week and I'm out of a vehicle for the next week. This is not the only problem I've had with this vehicle. The last problem I had was the housing unit of the overhead lights, sunroof controls and sos when hanging down and broke out of nowhere. The plastic melted and cracked. It was replaced but was not put back together properly. There are now gaps where it should be tightly sealed. The glove comparent arm is broken. There are wheel bearings issues too we are trying to pin point the issue. The hits keep coming and the car is just a money pit.

Purchased new; problems began early in ownership and have recurred despite multiple dealer visits. At ~75,995 miles in July 2025, the vehicle developed a significant engine oil leak. Multiple inspections have found the engine oil level low due to leaks from cracks, and the dealer also verified excessive crankcase pressure from a faulty pcv system that forced oil past sealing surfaces. Parts replaced included the pcv/separator, upper timing cover, a related pipe, and the oil filler funnel; dtcs were cleared and the vehicle was returned as “operating to specifications. ” despite these repairs, the vehicle has an ongoing pattern of engine problems, including warning lights and loss of power/limp mode while driving. This creates a safety risk due to sudden power reduction and the possibility of engine damage from oil starvation and continued leakage. I have repair records documenting the July 2025 diagnosis and parts replaced, prior visits showing repeat engine/drivability issues, and notes reflecting low oil observed on multiple inspections. Volkswagen denied assistance and directed me to bbb auto line; I am refiling with bbb and reporting this safety concern to NHTSA. No crash or fire; safety risk is loss of power and oil leakage while in operation.

Subject: vehicle complaint – excessive oil consumption and potential safety risk to whom it may concern: I am writing to formally report an ongoing and concerning issue with my vehicle involving excessive oil consumption, which I believe poses both a mechanical defect and a potential safety risk to myself and others on the road. What happened: the engine appears to be burning oil at an abnormally high rate, requiring top offs far more frequently than recommended under normal driving conditions. There is no visible external oil leak, and I have not modified the engine or used non-recommended oil. The component/system in question is the engine’s oil management system (including the piston rings, valve seals, or pcv system), and I am willing to make the vehicle available for inspection upon request. Safety concern: this issue puts my safety at risk because: •I could unknowingly run the engine with dangerously low oil levels between regular oil changes. •this increases the chance of sudden engine failure while driving, particularly at highway speeds. •there’s also a fire risk if oil enters the combustion chamber or exhaust system. Inspection & confirmation: the problem has been: •reproduced and confirmed by flow Volkswagen of greensboro during multiple service visits. •the dealership performed an oil consumption test, which showed the vehicle is consuming over the amount of quart(s) of oil per miles which exceeds industry norms. •the issue has not yet been inspected by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives. Symptoms and timeline: •the first symptoms (frequent oil warnings or low oil dipstick readings) began around the first two years. Since then, I’ve had to add oil as often as every 200 or more miles. A “low oil pressure” warning light and/or message appeared at every 200 miles, requiring an immediate stop to avoid engine damage. •no prior accidents.

I noticed a huge oil puddle where my car was parked. I drove straight to the vw service dept in my area. . . The car has less than 75k miles & was last serviced by a vw dealership due to fuel pump recall. Upon my discovery of the massive oil leak, I now know was spawned from the pcv valve going bad which has resulted in blowing out 3 seals and requiring a new pan. I have recieved an estimate from a vw dealership service dept and a well know auto repair shop- both have quoted the cost no less than $2000 with potential of reaching $3000. Essentially the pcv part is about $20. 00 in cost, but because it just "went bad" and its purpose is to allow the engine to breathe. . . Blowing out these additional seals means that the engine will need to be removed to be repaired. The car is valued around $7000 to resale in good condition. Now, a consumer has to spend 30% to 40% of the cars value to repair the faulty valve that caused additional issues in order to stop the bleeding. I bought this car from carmax at 30k miles in Nov 2014- at the time of purchase there was no disclosure of a recall issued in August of 2014 & did not even receive a letter regarding the recalled until 2 years later from either carmax or vw. In all actuality the entire section in the owner's manual regarding the engine was completely removed & is missing. No indicator lights came on or were displayed from the leak or seals. I would have never known if I wasn't park in a paver driveway at someone's home & asked if that large oil mark was there prior to me parking there in the past 24 hrs. If I continued driving mu vehicle, it could have resulted in a sequence catastrophic events, in a vehicle that has been maintained according to all service standards & requirements on behalf of it's owner.

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The rear main seal on my 09 Tiguan 2. 0 tsi blew at 709k miles from pcv valve defect. I have heard of several cases of the pcv clogging on the tsi engine cars sending boost pressure into crankcase and blowing the seal.

Carbon buildup in engine at 65k miles, vehicle was maintained as recommended by vw. Pcv valve complete failure at 88k miles which resulted in failure of the rear main seal which requires removal of transmission (roughly $2,000 of repairs). This is a known issue by dealers and service centers due to insufficient or improper application of sealant.

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After noticing excess oil leakage we took our "09 Tiguan to our ase certified local independent mechanic who specializes in european cars. He found a rear main seal failure. Vw pasadena found the following: timing chain failure, crank case breather failure, carbon build up on valves, rear main seal failure, pressure circulation valve (pcv) failure. Vehicle is within powertrain warranty and vw realdriver mechanical failure service contract warranty by miles, but not by terms (5 yr and 3yr respectively). Went to local dealer, escalated to vw America, and denied claim 1/26/17. After owning 10+ vw's in the family this is it. Escalating past claims mgr tomorrow and seeking a resolution.

The engine for my particular car is very poorly designed causing it to have so many issues one after the other. At on 72k miles I have already had the following jobs done to my car: replace pcv valve, decarbonization of the car, rear main seal leak replacement.

Large pool of motor oil under the left side of the engine. Dealer inspected and informed me of a failed rear main seal caused high crankcase pressure buildup due to a stuck (closed) pvc valve.

Rear main seal gushing oil due to defective seal, timing cover seal leaking, recirculation valve leaking, crankcase valve leaking. Regular maintainance on car, otherwise in perfect condition. No reason for this to happen with such low miles. .

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Pcv valve is defective and tears on 100 percent of all Tiguans. This over pressurizes the crankcase causing a loud noise as pressurized air passes over the front and rear main seal damaging the seals. Exsessive oil leaks from the rear main seal onto the catalytic converter causing in many cases, a fire.

Rear main seal failed due to manufacturer defect causing oil to leak on to hot engine. Every 2. 0 tsi engine in Tiguan, cc, gti, jetta and eos experiences the same failure at around the same mileage. The rear main seal is not a wearing part and should last for the life of a vehicle if well designed. This forum thread shows many owners with the same issue at around the same mileage. . Read more...