NHTSA Complaint #11418182 — 2018 VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN

• Vehicle purchased new • First brake service • Mileage: 46,700 Over a 1-week period, I noticed an increasing grinding noise at driver side front wheel. I suspected brakes. Took vehicle to VW dealership who performed an inspection then reported (first explanation) that unknown material/debris had worked its way between rotor and pad resulting in significant wear & scoring of driver front rotor. Dealership advised replacement of all 4 rotors and pads ($ 1,700+)! When I questioned the replacement of ALL brakes, I was told (2nd explanation) the debris in the driver front brake had reduced braking efficiency such that the passenger front brake had to compensate, which subsequently resulted in excessive pad and rotor wear/scoring at that site. Okay, but then why the rear? I was told (3rd explanation), that due to the decreased braking efficiency of BOTH front brakes, the rear brakes had to compensate and that the rear pads were at 5mm, and the rear rotors were warped beyond specifications. I requested all parts be retained for my inspection. Upon my later inspection, I saw that one pad from EACH side of the respective front calipers was substantially worn beyond the other pad. I was told (4th explanation) the caliper pins may not have had sufficient lubrication thus one (inner) side of EACH front caliper was getting hung up - thus the excessive wear to only the inner pad on EACH front brake. Similarly, the inner side of each rotor showed substantially more wear and “deep grooving”. Despite the clear evidence of caliper malfunction, warranty coverage declined - EVEN THOUGH the full factory warranty was still in full effect! Outcome: Paid for all new rotors & pads (no other feasible option). Service manager recommended returning after 5000 miles to verify proper function of calipers. But Service Manager advised that if the caliper issue IS found, at that time, “(T)he calipers may need replacement manufacturer’s warranty may apply.”