Volkswagen Tiguan is one of the best family SUVs available in the Malaysian automotive market. Locally, VW offers the Tiguan in three variants - Highline, Join, and United, with a starting retail price of RM 162,108. The range-topping model boasts a price tag of RM 172,108. All three models come with excellent safety gear, meaning you don't need to think twice about your beloved's safety when it's a Tiguan.

The VW five-seater is powered by a 1.4-litre turbo petrol engine that churns out a max power of 150 PS at 5,000 to 6,000 rpm and a peak torque of 250 Nm at 1,500 to 3,500 rpm. This mill is mated to a 6-speed direct shift gearbox, and it returns a mileage of 11.63 kmpl in urban, 17.86 in extra-urban, and 14.93 kmpl combined.

If you think which Tiguan variant should you buy, let us inform you that the Join and United trims add cosmetic elements to the car. For example, the former comes with aluminium side steps, chrome exhaust tips, front sports bumper, black rear spoiler, chrome trunk garnish, and 'JOIN' emblem. On the other hand, the United package includes front sports bumper, VW dynamic wheel hub cap, chrome trunk garnish, 'UNITED' emblem, window film by VW Tint, and chrome exhaust tips.

It doesn't matter which model or variant you pick, what's important is that the vehicle runs in a good state and all its functions work as intended. And for that to happen, we need to look after the purchased piece of metal because let's face it; it's just a machine that requires timely care and maintenance.

Volkswagen Malaysia has put in place what's called a 5 Star Service Check designed to provide customers with complete peace of mind and address potential wear and tear issues in the car. Under it, live and transparent checks would be carried out in 5 minutes with no additional cost. It will cover the checking of - brakes, wheel & tyres, lighting, windscreen & window, and body & paint condition. Taking into account the COVID-19 factor, the automaker has now introduced a contactless 5 Start Service Check.

Apart from scheduled visits to the service centre, self-checks are necessary too - they are easy to do and are beneficial for car's health in the long run. The following are some of the critical aspects you need to take care of regularly.

Get the basics right

It's a fact that buying a car is easier than maintaining it. To keep it going well, one needs to know the basics like vehicle specs, engine details, and components that need replacement. The owner's manual provided by the dealer at the time of purchase is the best source to get all the information.

Also, keep a check on components that need attention after a specific time or kilometres.

According to Volkswagen Malaysia's official website, after 15,000 km, engine oil, filter, and seals need to be changed.

Fluid check

Every workable piece of machine requires a periodic change of lubricants, as it helps function it in the most appropriate manner. Cars are no different. One needs to ensure the company suggested fluid levels are maintained. Most common fluids to keep a track on are - engine oil, engine coolant, and brake fluid.

While the former two can be checked easily at home, the latter requires expertise and is a job best left for authorized Volkswagen service stations.

Warning lights

As soon as you start the ignition of the Tiguan or any other car, numerous lights appear on the instrument cluster. Most people intend to ignore them primarily because they do not understand their meaning, but it can prove fatal.

Whenever a light pops-up on the Tiguan instrument cluster, we recommend you visit the nearest Volkswagen service station for a quick check-up. Also, learn about the warning lights from the car's owner manual.

Tyre care

Tyres play a crucial role in the car's performance, steering and ride quality, fuel efficiency, and braking. Therefore it's essential to monitor any wear and tear and tread reduction.

Try to keep the air pressure as recommended by the company, and the exact figure can be found in the Tiguan's vehicle manual. Also, it is advised to replace the tyres when you notice a significant reduction in tread height.

Driving habits

The way you drive matters the most. So, the harder you'd push the Tiguan, the quicker it'll degrade. Driving sensibly enhances the age of the car's components, and you'll get to enjoy Tiguan for a more extended time.

Final Word

Treat your Tiguan like your baby. Do periodic washes, don't skip the service schedule, perform self-checks, and, most importantly, drive sensibly. Following these will help your Tiguan live longer and healthy.

Also Read: Honda CR-V vs Volkswagen Tiguan: Know the best pick for you!