2020 Volkswagen Tiguan Has A Check Engine Light

Resolve Check Engine Light Issues in 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial steps to diagnose the check engine light on a 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Begin by visually inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable issue that can trigger the light. Next, take a moment to check your dashboard for any additional warning lights or messages that may provide further context about the problem. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, the next step is to utilize an OBD-II diagnostic scanner. This tool connects to your vehicle's OBD port and retrieves error codes that the vehicle's computer has logged. Once you have the error codes, research them using your vehicle's manual or reputable online resources to gain insight into the specific issues at hand. This structured approach not only helps in identifying the problem efficiently but also empowers you to make informed decisions about any necessary repairs or maintenance.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan, it can signal a range of common issues that require attention. One of the simplest problems could be a loose gas cap, which can disrupt the fuel system and trigger the warning light. More complex issues may involve a faulty oxygen sensor, which not only affects fuel efficiency but can also lead to increased emissions if left unaddressed. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can indicate a failure in the exhaust system, potentially leading to costly repairs if not resolved promptly. Spark plug issues are another frequent culprit; worn or malfunctioning spark plugs can cause engine misfires and poor performance. The mass airflow sensor is crucial for maintaining the correct air-fuel mixture, and any malfunction here can also illuminate the check engine light. Lastly, a failing ignition coil can lead to rough idling and misfiring, further complicating engine performance. Addressing these issues quickly is vital to prevent further damage and ensure the vehicle operates efficiently, making it advisable to consult a qualified mechanic for a thorough diagnosis and repair.

What are the potential risks and necessary actions for addressing the check engine light in a 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan, it is crucial to act swiftly to avoid serious consequences. Ignoring this warning can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, potential engine damage, and even safety hazards while driving. One of the first steps you can take is to check the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common trigger for the light. If the cap is secure, using an OBD-II scanner to read the error code can provide valuable insights into the underlying issue. Depending on the code, the problem may be something simple, like a faulty sensor, or it could indicate a more complex issue that requires professional intervention. Addressing these problems promptly not only helps maintain your vehicle's performance but also ensures your safety on the road. If you are uncertain about the diagnosis or lack the necessary skills to perform repairs, seeking a qualified mechanic for a thorough inspection is advisable. Taking these actions can significantly reduce the risks associated with a lit check engine light and keep your Tiguan running smoothly.

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2020 Volkswagen Tiguan Check Engine Light Issues & Solutions