The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have opened a preliminary investigation into certain 2009-20111 Volkswagen Tiguan compact SUV’s after receiving twenty six (26) complaints of exterior lighting problems.

Complaints allege a partial loss of the exterior lighting that worsens over time or a complete unexpected loss of exterior lighting. Many owners report finding an overheated and melted fuse (number F16 or SB16) in the under hood fuse box. This 30 amp fuse is used to protect exterior lighting circuits such as headlights, brakes, turn signals, etc.

If the investigation should lead to a recall, approximately 61,000 Tiguan vehicles could be effected. The NHTSA investigation number is PE 13-036.