The problem
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan and Tiguan long wheel base (LWB) vehicles. The nut that holds the lower ball joint of the front wheel on each side of the vehicle may be loose or improperly tightened.
The risk
A loose or improperly tightened ball joint nut can result in the separation of the lower ball joint causing steering, traction or other stability issues, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Volkswagen has notified owners, and dealers will replace the nut on the lower ball joint and, as necessary, clean the thread in the ball joint, free of charge. The recall began May 30, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 40N4. Note: owners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the recall repair has been performed.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 18V-324 (18V324000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 40N4/40N5 |
| Manufacturer | Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. |
| Component | Suspension › Front › Control arm › Lower ball joint |
| Report date | May 16, 2018 |
| Owners notified | May 30, 2018 |
| Vehicles affected | 2,473 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the suspension
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 18V-324 repair free?
Yes. Volkswagen dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Volkswagen has notified owners, and dealers will replace the nut on the lower ball joint and, as necessary, clean the thread in the ball joint, free of charge. The recall began May 30, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 2,473 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is it safe to drive?
No — the manufacturer says owners should not drive affected vehicles until the repair is done. Contact a dealer to arrange towing.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.