
The Tiguan is equipped with a particulate filter, which comes as standard across all models. A particulate filter is a ceramic filter installed in the diesel engine's emission system, designed to capture particulate emissions before they enter the atmosphere. It can reduce the soot produced by diesel engines by more than 90%, and the captured particulate matter is subsequently burned off during vehicle operation. How the particulate filter works: The diesel particulate filter is coated with metals such as platinum, rhodium, and palladium. The black smoke containing carbon particles emitted by the diesel engine enters the particulate filter through a dedicated pipe. Inside, a densely arranged bag-type filter captures the carbon particles on a metal fiber mat filter. When the accumulation of particles reaches a certain level, the burner at the end automatically ignites, burning off the captured carbon particles and converting them into harmless carbon dioxide. To determine if your Tiguan has a particulate filter, you can use the following three methods: Check the and to see if there is a particulate filter function. Additionally, carefully review the fault codes in the manual to see if there is a "particulate filter" warning light indicator. Check the label on the oil filler cap. If it clearly states 0W-20 grade oil, it indicates the presence of a particulate filter. Look behind the catalytic converter on the exhaust pipe for a cylindrical section. If present, that is the particulate filter.

My Tiguan is the 2019 diesel version. When I bought it, the dealer told me it has a particulate filter specifically designed to trap exhaust particles, making emissions cleaner. After driving it for over a year, the overall experience has been good, but I've encountered the engine warning light coming on once or twice, suspected to be due to filter clogging. Later, I went to the 4S shop for cleaning, which solved the problem at a low cost. For daily use, long-distance driving helps with its self-cleaning. If you drive a new Tiguan, especially those meeting China's National VI emission standards, it's highly likely to be equipped with this device. It's more common in diesel versions, while newer gasoline models like the Tiguan L may also have similar filters—it ultimately depends on the specific configuration. I think this feature is quite necessary for environmental protection, but maintenance is key.

As a car enthusiast, I've noticed that most Tiguan models now come equipped with a particulate filter, especially those launched after 2017 due to stricter emission regulations. It's installed in the exhaust system specifically to capture tiny carbon particles. From what I've learned, diesel versions come standard with it, while gasoline versions may have it in high-end models or those meeting Euro 6 and China 6b standards. If you don't frequently drive on highways, carbon soot can easily accumulate, leading to reduced power or warning lights. Regular inspection and maintenance are recommended to extend its lifespan. While it's beneficial for air quality, maintenance can be troublesome, especially when used for extended periods in congested urban areas where issues are more likely to arise.

I've been driving a gasoline-powered Tiguan for two years. Once when a friend asked about the particulate filter, I checked the manual and found that my 2020 model indeed has one installed to meet environmental requirements. The car is quite worry-free to drive, though I was concerned it might clog and affect the engine. However, in actual use, there haven't been any major issues—it functions normally as long as I drive on highways frequently. If buying a used car or an older model, it might not have this device. Nowadays, most new cars come equipped with it, especially those with diesel engines. I think it's good to understand this—safety first—and if any problems arise, just take it to a professional repair shop.


