Warning Lights on VW Tiguan: What Do They Mean?

The Volkswagen Tiguan comes equipped with a range of dashboard warning lights that help keep drivers informed about the vehicle’s status. These lights are designed to alert you to potential issues, ranging from simple reminders to critical warnings that require immediate attention. 

Understanding your Volkswagen Tiguan’s warning lights is crucial for keeping your Tiguan in optimal condition and ensuring your safety on the road. This guide will help you decode the most common Volkswagen Tiguan warning lights and explain the actions you should take when they appear.

Common Warning Lights and Their Meanings

1. Engine Management Light (EML)

The Engine Management Light is a small engine icon that alerts you to potential issues with the engine, exhaust, or emissions system. If the light remains steady, it usually indicates a minor problem that should be checked by a professional soon. If the light flashes, however, it points to a more severe engine issue that requires immediate attention to avoid further damage.

2. Oil Pressure Warning Light

The oil can symbol is one of the most critical warnings. This light signals low oil pressure, which can lead to severe engine damage if ignored. If you see this light, you should stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe, check the oil level, and top it up if necessary. If the light stays on after adding oil, you’ll need professional assistance to diagnose the problem.

3. Battery Charge Warning Light

This battery-shaped light indicates a problem with the car’s charging system. If the light comes on while driving, it means the battery isn’t being charged, often due to a faulty alternator or broken alternator belt. Continuing to drive could cause the vehicle to lose power, so it’s essential to have this issue checked by a mechanic as soon as possible.

4. Brake System Warning Light

The exclamation mark inside a circle is a sign of a problem with your braking system, ranging from low brake fluid to serious brake failure. Given the importance of braking, this light should never be ignored. Check your brake fluid levels immediately, and if the light stays on, consult a professional to avoid compromising your safety.

5. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light

This horseshoe-shaped light with an exclamation mark in the middle indicates low tyre pressure in one or more tyres. Driving with under-inflated tyres can reduce fuel efficiency, affect handling, and cause premature wear. It’s important to check your tyre pressures and inflate them to the recommended levels as soon as possible.

6. AdBlue Warning Light

If you drive a diesel Tiguan, you’ll likely encounter the AdBlue warning light, which looks like a bottle. This light means that your AdBlue levels are running low. AdBlue is vital for reducing emissions, and if it runs out, your vehicle may not start. Be sure to refill the AdBlue tank when this light comes on to avoid any inconvenience.

What To Do When a Volkswagen Tiguan Warning Light Comes On
When a warning light appears on your dashboard, it’s important to follow these steps:

  • Check Your Vehicle Manual: your manual provides detailed information about each warning light and will help you understand the severity of the issue.

  • Evaluate the Urgency: some warning lights, such as those for the engine or brakes, require immediate action, while others, like tyre pressure or AdBlue warnings, give you more time to address the issue.

  • Use an OBD Scanner: if you're unsure about the exact issue, an OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) scanner can read the diagnostic codes from your vehicle and give you a clearer idea of what’s wrong. These devices can help you determine if the issue requires urgent attention or can be resolved at your convenience.

  • Seek Professional Assistance: if your Volkswagen Tiguan’s warning lights stay on or if you’re unsure how to proceed, it’s always best to consult a professional technician to prevent further damage to your vehicle.

Lights are a window into vehicle health

The Volkswagen Tiguan’s warning lights are designed to keep you informed about potential problems before they become serious. By understanding what each light means and taking appropriate action, you can ensure your vehicle stays safe and reliable. Always refer to your vehicle manual for specific guidance, and consider using an OBD scanner for a quick diagnosis. 

When in doubt, seek professional help to keep your Tiguan running smoothly and avoid costly repairs down the road. You can take your Tiguan to one of our trusted Service Point partners, who are approved to install our remanufactured components, check the map for your nearest garage.

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