When I open the back hatch of the Tiguan 2011, water leaks out of the the electric door behind the lights.

I'm assuming this isnt normal, but any ideas about how I can prevent any damage before the dealer checks it out? It leaks out of either light, and I've owned the car for about three weeks.

Since no one answered, I will post the obvious, keep the Tiguan out of the rain until you can get to the dealer. And no, it is not a normal occurrence, but I have heard of it happening at least once before.

Thanks! They said that the tailights were missing seals and that they could replace them in about a day.

The lights were replaced with new lights and seals but now the back hatch will not unlock if it is cold outside. This morning was a bit rough, since my ice scraper was in the back of the Tiguan. I'm assuming there is water in the back of the car, and have made my fourth appointment of the month to have them look at the problem (my first car payment is still not yet due). sigh.

If they didn't pull the door apart and dry it out it's probably still got water in it as you suspect, and when it gets cold enough it freezes the lock solid. Good luck.