How many problems does the 2020 VOLKSWAGEN Atlas Cross Sport have?

The 2020 VOLKSWAGEN Atlas Cross Sport currently has 87 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.

What are the most common problems with 2020 VOLKSWAGEN Atlas Cross Sport?

The most common problems reported for the 2020 VOLKSWAGEN Atlas Cross Sport are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.

Where does this 2020 VOLKSWAGEN Atlas Cross Sport problem data come from?

All problem and complaint data for the 2020 VOLKSWAGEN Atlas Cross Sport comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.

2020 VOLKSWAGEN Atlas Cross Sport Problems

AIR BAGS

13 complaints

I am having the same airbag sensor problem that everyone else is. My vehicle is not part of the recall but should be. This is a known safety hazard.

Feb 27, 2025

Vehicles “Airbag Error” light has turned on. From what I’m reading this is a known faulty sensor that may prevent the front passenger airbag from deploying in a crash. This could increase the risk of injury to the front passenger. I contacted the Volkswagen dealer, there is currently no recall submitted for this because Volkswagen is not able to trace the issue. I am filing a claim because I am concerned for my safety and the safety of my passengers. I am not sure who I can contact in order to receive any assistance with this issue. Thank you.

Nov 22, 2024

The contact owns a 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 63,000.

Sep 24, 2024

Airbag front passenger side has defect will not deploy. The dashboard light alert is on, as per dealership review stated airbag defect will not deploy and needs to be replaced. Car has never used airbag. Other same vehicles have been recalled but this batch of atlas cross sport suvs were not included.

Sep 21, 2024

Air bag light illuminated. VIN number not associated with current air bag recall even though it is exhibiting the very identical problem. Dealer will not acknowledge the recall since the VIN doesn’t show on the recall site.

Sep 06, 2024

+ 8 more complaints for this component

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

10 complaints

Hood cable release snapped/broke during a routine oil change.

Oct 15, 2025

The hood latch is broken. After searching the cause I have found that this is a common issue with 2020 VW ATLAS. There needs to be a recall.

Aug 20, 2025

Issue: Vehicle Lockout/Fob Unresponsive The combination of opening the passenger door, locking the vehicle with the key fob, and hitting the ignition button once before closing the door, DISABLES THE KEY FOB FUNCTIONALITY AND LOCKS YOU OUT OF THE VEHICLE. The app also becomes unresponsive because the ignition is engaged. The only way to open the car is manually with the key. If you have your child safety locks engaged for the rear seats, your children wont be able to open the doors if they are in a safety harness. This was an accidental order of events. We were never taught how to use the manual key entry when we purchased our vehicle. We were actually right next to the VW dealer the day of the incident and their trained sales person couldn't open the door with the manual key. Once 911 arrived, the fire fighters couldn't do it, and finally the EMT was able to get the key cover off and opened the door. Forced entry with a lockout kit didn't work. We were about to break the glass because my children were locked in the car, stuck in their carseats unable to open the door with child safety locks being on, in 90 degree weather for 15 full minutes. VW inspected and reported that indeed, this combination of events locks you out of your vehicle and is programmed this way for all of their vehicles with their computer technology. I was instructed to use the manual key to open door if this happens again. They also said this has never been reported as an issue because people don't do this. If someone were to rent this vehicle or, in my case, a secondary driver is trying to operate the technology, this could easily happen to another person. this is unacceptable and a safety concern.

Aug 18, 2025

About a year ago the light of the SOS appear in red and will not reset back to green. The SUV has a warning sign in the dash that does not go off: Error: emergency call function. And an orange triangle in the display who cant go off. The dealer said that Its the car net module defective and is a well known issue with the 2020-2022 Atlases. They were supposed to order a new module and change it in warranty. The module didnt arrive and now they want me to pay for the module in order to change it because the warranty has expired. This module controls all the features in the Atlas, so I cant use anothing connected to the car net, telephone, calls, tracking device, navigation, handsfree and others. Q

Mar 12, 2025

Unknown- vehicle idles to a stall. This has happened when trying to make a turn across a major intersection. It must be put in neutral, brakes applied to restart. This has the potential to cause serious injury if it is not restarted in time or if there is traffic behind me. It has also stalled while at gas pumps, stop signs, and in the driveway. There are many situations, at different times of day and weather conditions. The check engine light has not turned on and the dealership will not do anything until they see it happen. The vehicle is available for inspection at any time. I have disabled the start/stop system and it still does it. It may be the charcoal canister if my research is correct, however, that is not confirmed.

Jul 03, 2024

+ 5 more complaints for this component

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

6 complaints

When driving the car the GPS looses its location making it impossible to proceed to a planned destination. It causes you to try to fix the issue while driving and locating a place to pull off the road. It has taken me to places were I did not want to go. The dealer can’t fix the problem.

Mar 27, 2024

The contact owns a 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. The contact stated that when the cellphone was connected to the cellphone port in the vehicle, the connection was inoperable. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the contact was informed that the failure was due to an inoperable carnet module and that the carnet module needed to be replaced. The contact was informed that the parts to complete the repair were ordered but on back order. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 38,000.

Feb 09, 2024

The ControlNet module throws an error on the dash stating SOS Emergency error. The error cannot be cleared.

Nov 23, 2023

The contact owns a 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, various electrical failure would occur such as her power windows independently rolling down and various warning lights flashing on instrument panel. The contact then stated that while driving at 25 MPH, her parking brake warning light illuminated as her vehicle came to a sudden stop. Due to the failure, the contact took the vehicle to a dealer where they discovered that the electrical harness needed to be replaced. The manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The vehicle had yet to be repaired and remained in the possession of the dealer as parts remained unavailable. The failure mileage was approximately 28,000.

Mar 18, 2022

The contact owns a 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. The contact stated that while driving and depressing the brake pedal, the parking brake would erroneously activate. The vehicle had to be shifted into Park, turned off, and restarted; however, the failure would recur whenever the brake pedal was depressed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the contact was informed that the failure might be due to the failure of a wiring harness inside the door. The dealer confirmed the failure and stated that parts were not yet available to fix the vehicle. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 16,843.

Mar 16, 2022

+ 1 more complaint for this component

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

6 complaints

After 6-7 occurrences over a year of an unidentifiable warning light type object appearing in the Vehicle Information portion of the dashboard. Also two (2ea) separate trips to the Volkswagen Dealership for repair of this issue. I was driving on raining soaked highway, as I was slowing down for stopped traffic ahead (traveling at approximately 25 mph), the aforementioned warning light flashed on and immediately and automatically applied the brakes causing the vehicle to skid sideways on the highway. I returned to the Dealership for the third (3rd) time for this item and explained what happened. The Service Manager had me look at a computer showing all of the warning lights for my vehicle. I told him the warning light that we have seen was not located in the area of where the “normal” warning lights are, but in the Vehicle Information area of the dash board. When I was picking up the vehicle after the service for this item and also a recall issue, the Service Manager told me regarding the unidentified warning light the car was “supposed to apply the brakes in that fashion”. However, the dealership could not identify the Large Red Object surrounded with four (4) Lightning Bolts warning Light. If this issue (warning light and automatically braking) would have occurred at a greater speed (the speed limit on the highway was 65 mph) the outcome would have been more serious. As a result of this occurrence and the several failed attempts identify the warning light or to repair this vehicle we do not feel safe in driving this car. According, we have sold this Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport.

Sep 05, 2022

I submitted a report on May 2nd, 2022 about a MAJOR safety concern that occurred at the beginning of April. My cross sport was phantom braking, throwing itself into Park, and involuntary E-braking. This occurred multiple times at different speeds, I avoided collision and injury but have since been unable to drive the vehicle. Myself and others on the road could have been seriously injured. It was immediately towed to the dealership and has been sitting on the lot un-driveable since April, with no fix in sight, and no communication from VW in regard to a resolution. I want to file the highest complaint against VW as they have not dealt with this in a timely manner, they have not offered assistance, and this was my only vehicle.

May 25, 2022

2020 VW Atlas Cross Sport. While traveling down the highway (medium speed) the vehicle abruptly threw itself into Park, and E-braked. Thankfully escaped a collision but the outcome could have been much worse. My safety and safety of others was put at risk. And the general trauma from this scary incident has lasted weeks. The abrupt braking continued to happen at low speeds / cruising speed until I could pull over. (The car is not simply braking, it is throwing itself into Park and E-Brake goes on). Also, windows roll up and down without cause, all types of warning lights and errors flash on the dashboard. Upon the dealership's service center's scan of my car's computer, they found it occurred four times. The dealership found the wiring harness was corroded, and they think the car is sensing that a door is open, causing the vehicle to switch to Park and abruptly E-Brake. The vehicle is unsafe to drive but both VW and the dealership have denied me a loaner, and have denied my requests for compensation so I can rent a temporary car - this malfunction has left me with no vehicle for weeks, zero means of transportation, and no future fix in sight.

May 02, 2022

Driving and my car is automatically suddenly braking for me even-though my foot is on the gas. This now has happened a few times and I almost got rear-ended yesterday.

Mar 21, 2022

In may 2021 I had the drivers side wiring harness replaced due to being faulty which included windows unrolling on their own, cruise control not working, every time I stopped car using brakes emergency brake automatically came on and car would jerk forward, to name a few. After I hand it replaced it worked until November 2021 where once again the same problems occurred. I took it to dealership who stated wiring harness again needed to be replaced. Unfortunately part is in back order and continues to not be available. Both the dealership and VW Car Care would not authorized a loaner and I was told I would have to continue to drive the car. However, car is not safe as electronics go hay wire on it and when I stop car emergency brake goes on and jerks car and everyone in it forward. As of today my dealership states their VW representative states still on back order and have no idea how long I will have to continue to wait for part.

Mar 09, 2022

+ 1 more complaint for this component

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

4 complaints

The car was purchased brand new in 2020. In 2022, the heating core broke and had to be replaced. This has happened again. This is a safety issue, the defroster is blowing cold air and not clearing the windshield properly. Having to drive a vehicle while freezing is also a safety hazard. A vehicle that is 5 years old, should not have this happen twice. Volkswagen was contacted and said there was not anything they could do. I read online that many with 2019 & 2020 Atlas & Atlas Cross sports are having the same issue. It should not take an accident to happen for Volkswagen to do something, Volkswagen needs to correct this issue ASAP.

Dec 17, 2025

I have a problem with navigation. My location is not determined correctly, the route is constantly being reroute. vw atlas cs 2020 sel premium. This happens with regular navigation and with Google / Apple maps when connected via wire. The problem is 100% with the car. Took it to the dealer (Washington). They said it was a big problem and VW didn't know how to fix it. Navigation is an important element; during trips it is easy to get lost and create an emergency situation. The vw regional manager said that VW is trying to create a system update, but it will not be ready until 2025. They refuse to replace the information system.

May 08, 2024

Received an error Emergency SOS call function failure! I took my vehicle to VW Loyalty and paid $180 to get a diagnosis. I was told that the carnet module needed replacement and would cost me a bit over $1200. They said that it was a known issue amongst 20-21 versions of the vehicle. I researched to find if anyone else experienced the same with this car and to my surprise, there are a slew of individuals with this issue on the vwatlas forum expressing my exact concerns. If this is a well known issue, that’s apparently a manufacturers mishap, why hasn’t this system been recalled. Why are we being charged to replace something that has been proven faulty by none of our fault at all. I’ve never used my SOS and I think something should be done about this, instead of allowing VW customers to be bled of funds after purchasing!

Mar 28, 2024

Upon starting the vehicle, an electrical fault for the drivers side door comes on. Often, this is followed by the drivers side door windows rolling down a few inches automatically. What follows next is a cascade of electrical faults, including but not limited to the emergency brake. When trying to drive in this condition, the brake automatically comes on just before the car comes to a complete stop. When there isn't the initial electrical fault, the car operates normally. This seems to be a problem associated with the driver's side door wiring harness. The car has been in the shop with the parts on backorder for over a month. This seems to be a known and common issue and it should probably rise to the level of recall.

Mar 07, 2022

ENGINE

4 complaints

At a stop or slow speed the vehicle stalls. Acted like the start stop feature was engaging. Stalling out crossing lanes of traffic you have to out it in park and restart. Start stop feature is disabled but dangerous to stall in traffic this way

Oct 05, 2024

The vehicle randomly turns off and a message appears that states manually start the vehicle. It’s not the ECO start and stop system. I researched the Atlas online forum and this is a noted problem. The comments were very consistently noting that VW has not properly addressed the issue. There were numerous comments that the dealerships were unable to address the issue leaving the owner with a very dangerous defect. I encourage you to pursue this matter further. Thank you

Oct 20, 2023

The contact owned a 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. The contact stated that while driving at 40 mph, he crashed into another vehicle and within seconds, his vehicle's engine compartment caught fire and exploded twice. The vehicle was engulfed in flames when the fire department arrived on the scene. The contact did not receive medical attention or sustain injuries however, the contact's wife received medical attention for injuries sustained and transported to the hospital by ambulance. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to an auto service center and deemed totaled by the insurance company. The dealer and manufacturer were not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 16,643.

Jun 21, 2021

Crash: 1

Fire: 1

Injuries: 1

PLEASE SEE ATTACHED DOCUMENT AS IT EXPLAINS IT ALL

Feb 17, 2021

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES

4 complaints

Vehicle has a defective driver door harness which causes the vehicle to think the door is open. When this happens the emergency brake engages and all the windows roll down. This behavior can occur while the vehicle is stopped and while the vehicle is in motion. Dealership has stated the repair part is on a national backorder with no estimated time the part will arrive. Dealership and Volkswagen have failed to provide any alternative forms of transportation.

Mar 02, 2022

The contact owns a 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. The contact stated while driving at low speeds, the emergency brake engaged independently. The contact also stated that the front driver’s side door failed to lock. The contact stated that the warning light was illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing an unknown chip to be replaced and a wiring failure. The vehicle was not repaired but was pending repairs. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 9,000.

Dec 28, 2021

Multiple errors when starting car including windows on drivers side roll down randomly, cruise control does not work, when I step on brakes it throws the emergency brake on and jerks the forward causing everyone in car to jerk forward. Dealership states drivers side wire harness problem but had it replaced 3/2021 and now same exact problem 12/2021

Dec 09, 2021

WHEN DRIVING VEHICLE UPON COMING TO A COMPLETED STOP, VARIOUS FAULT MESSAGES ARE DISPLAYED 'ELECTRONIC BRAKE ERROR/DRIVER CONTACT SWITCH ERROR, START/STOP ERROR'. THE CAR DETECTS THAT THE DOOR IS OPEN EVEN THOUGH IT IS COMPLETELY CLOSED WHICH CAUSES PARKING BREAK TO ACTIVATE IMMOBILIZING THE VEHICLE ; THE START/STOP SYSTEM THEN ACTIVATES TURNING OFF THE ENGINE. THIS MAKES PERFORMING ANY LOW SPEED MANEUVER EXTREMELY DIFFICULT AND DANGEROUS AS YOU MUST FIRST FIND THEN PRESS THE ELECTRONIC PARKING BREAKING BUTTON/TAKE YOUR FOOT OFF THE BREAK AND WAIT FOR THE START STOP TO DEACTIVATE/THEN ACCELERATE. THIS HAS NEARLY CAUSED AN ACCIDENT WHEN EXECUTING A LEFT TURN INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC THE CAR STOPPED AND THE BREAK ACTIVATED WHILE CARS WERE APPROACHING. CAR WAS TAKEN TO THE AUTHORIZED VW DEALER WHO REPLACED THE LOCKS AND DOOR HANDLE AND DID SAFETY INSPECTION. AS SOON AS I LEFT THE DEALER THE CAR DISPLAYED THE SAME PROBLEMS REPORTED. CAR WAS TAKEN BACK TO DEALER WHO ADVISED THEY ORDERED A NEW DOOR SWITCH TO FIX THE PROBLEM AS THE ONE IN THE CAR WAS 'BAD'. CAR HAS BEEN WITH DEALER FOR 1 MONTH AS THEY DO NOT HAVE THE PARTS DUE TO IT BEING ON BACKORDER AT VW.

Dec 17, 2020

STEERING

3 complaints

For the second time since purchase 6/2020 we are taking the car in for suspected steering rack issues. We have already had the steering rack replaced, we have clunking/clicking when turning when we turn the wheel to the left. VW to address the issue next week

Aug 25, 2021

I BROUGHT CAR IN FOR A RECALL INSPECTION, THAT REQUIRED PHOTOS OF THE DEFECTIVE PARTS NUMBER. THE DEALER DID NOT PROVIDE ME WITH THE PHOTOS AND I QUESTIONED WHER ARE THE PHOTOS , THEY SENT ME SOME GENERIC PHOTOS OF AN UNDERSIDE OF THE CAR BUT NOTHING WITH CLEARLY VISIBLE PART NUMBERS. THE INSPECTION MAY NOT HAVE BEEN DONE CORRECTLY AND IF THE PART BREAKS IT RESULTS IN A LOSS OF STEERING AND A TRAGIC ENDING FOR THE CAR AND DRIVER.

Mar 18, 2021

PERSISTENT NOISE WHEN TURNING STEERING WHEEL TO THE LEFT, LOUD CLICKING MORE SO WHEN VEHICLE IS STOPPED. VIDEO EVIDENCE PRESENTED TO DEALER AFTER IT HAD BEEN IN TO THE SHOP ONCE BEFORE AND IT WAS DETERMINED FAULTY STEERING RACK,

Oct 24, 2020

SERVICE BRAKES

2 complaints

Pulled out of driveway onto major road. Brake fluid alert showed up on dash. Brakes completely stopped working. Was able to roll the car to a stop. Called tow truck which delivered car to mechanic. Mechanic confirmed that there were no brakes and advised that the brake master cylinder leaked into the brake booster which caused the brake booster to be damaged. Mechanic needed to remove and replace the the brake master cylinder and the vacuum brake booster.

Nov 12, 2025

Ever since we have purchased the car, the brakes have always given us issues. There is a continous squeaking when braking despite having new pads. We have also had the brakes grind causing rotor issues. We have had to replace the rotors on this car 4 times and brake pads 5 or 6 times. Our brakes continue to squeak and the dealership indicates that this is normal and may be do to oxidation build up. We have never experienced this before with any other vehicle we have purchased or leased.

Mar 05, 2024

STRUCTURE

2 complaints

2020 Atlas Cross Sport- hood release cable snapped- known issue. Many complaints online. Needs a recall! Dangerous

Oct 06, 2025

August of 2023 the vehicle was taken to Charles Maund VW in Austin Texas due to the hood latch disconnecting/breaking under the hood. November of 2024, just outside the 1 yr warranty period, the hood latch again had become disconnected/broken under the hood. There is an obvious defect in the hood latch system and puts drivers at risk as the hood cannot be opened if needed possibly stranding a driver on the road with a non-functioning vehicle and no way to assess or repair the issue. Think low oil, overheating engine, no wiper fluid, fuse blown, no way to assess the issue.

Dec 11, 2024

STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

2 complaints

Steering makes a noise. SOS light is red and it's the second time this happens. Last time the dealerships charged me $700.00 to fixed it. And now it's red again, and it hasn't even passed 2 months.

Feb 22, 2025

Steering rack issue for second time full replacement of steering rack for the second time Also front links recall, replaced Strange popping coming from top of vehicle, sounds like rocks are being dropped on the top of the car Road Noise at speeds over 75 mph

Oct 11, 2021

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

2 complaints

8/22/2023- CEL code P0456 - dealership replaced N80 valve and carbon canister. The dealership told the fault occurred because I was likely "topping off" my gas tank, which I have never done. 9/14/2023- CEL code P0456 - dealership detected leak, valve full of particles, replaced N80 valve and carbon canister. Again told me the issue was likely caused by "topping off" my fuel tank, which I have never done. 4/23/2024- CEL code P0456- dealership detected leak though did not replace valve or canister. Dealership performed a software update and cleared the code. 5/7/2024- CEL code P0456- dealership detected leak, noted charcoal in valve. Replaced N80 valve and carbon canister. Dealership contacted Volkswagen for further insight into the issue. VW informed dealership that I was likely "topping off" my tank, which I have never done.

Aug 31, 2024

The fuel tank collapsed, leading to the fuel indicator not presenting accurate fuel levels, which lead to the cars immediate shut down on the highway at high speeds. Resulting in us almost getting hit by other drivers at high speeds. As we were losing power the epc light and engine light came on, however nothing prior. After taking it to the VW service department, we were told this is a common issue and when they were first presented with it they contacted VW assistance and were given a test to perform to determine the integrity of the fuel tank.

Dec 04, 2023

WHEELS

2 complaints

The Pirelli Scorpion All Season Zero tires that came factory equipped on my 2020 VW Cross Sport have experienced a sidewall failure on Drivers Side front. 35,000 miles on the vehicle and Tries Rotated as recomended. The tire sizes is 245/45r21. Driving on highway at 70 mph, with out any sensor warnings a messaged flashed on the dash of complete loss of tire pressue and in a split second the tire exploded. Thankfully I was able to pull the side safely. The sidewall of the tire completely seperated from the body. Dealer is selling me new tires but no offer to investigate.

Mar 14, 2023

Here we go again, warning light for tires correctly inflated warning sign will not go away. This is third time this has been addressed, initially vehicle tires on sale were over inflated, second time similar issue, and now who knows until we get to service on Tuesday what we are going to find

Aug 25, 2021

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES

2 complaints

Issues started in fall 2020, each had occurred a few times, but dealers reported this was a known issue without a fix or that parka for wire harness were on back order. Now with each start 8+ alarms go off for failures in safety features. Consistently the electronic parking brakes come on at slow speeds (<5mph) and has caused near accede to due to sliding when driving in snowy weather. Airbag warning light on and unsure if this is a safety issue or sensor problem, dealership reports it is not a safety issue. Driver door not recognized as closed, driver side door will no lock but at other times is unable to be unlocked. All 4 windows go down ~6in at random intervals both while driving or parked when starting car. Initially was single events and rare now cat is nearly undrivable due to braking issues

Mar 19, 2022

UPON VEHICLE START, VEHICLE PROVIDED SEVERAL WARNINGS: 'DRIVER DOOR CONTACT SWITCH, ELECTRONIC PARKING BRAKE FAULT, AIRBAG ERROR', AND SEVERAL OTHERS. THE DRIVER AND DRIVER-REAR PASSENGER WINDOWS ROLLED DOWN ABOUT TWO INCHES, SECURITY LIGHT WAS BLINKING, DRIVERS DOOR WOULD NOT LOCK. WHILE DRIVING ON CITY STREET, THE PARKING BRAKE WOULD ENGAGE AT LOW SPEED (1-2 MPH), AND WHEN STOPPED, WHILE IN GEAR (DRIVE).

Mar 15, 2021

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

2 complaints

Started with not being able to enter the vehicle through drivers door, would not open from outside. Then windows started rolling down on their own. MANY different alarms and warnings would pop up while driving. This went on for about a month. I was coming up to a stop light one day and the car put itself into emergency parking brake mode. I was able to hit the gas and get out of it but this continued for a couple days. Also happened while trying to reverse, locked up in emergency parking brake mode and had to restart several times in order to even move the vehicle. VW told me it was still safe to drive but I was not comfortable. I dropped at the dealer where it sat for THREE months before I finally had the door wire harness replaced.

Mar 16, 2022

Unexpected emergency braking with no other vehicle nor object in driving lane/path. Such a scary experience and almost got rear-ended as we were traveling on expressway. No active recalls related to this issue, which apparently isn't unique to my personal experience with this particular year,make,model.

Mar 16, 2022

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

2 complaints

Drivers door wiring harness and control module malfunction. When this happens multiple MIL on dash display, windows roll down and emergency braking system applies the brakes by itself under 15 mph resulting in drastic unexpected deceleration. Luckily the car behind me was able to stop in time. Dealership indicates vehicle is safe to drive, no loaners available and parts are at least 3 month out.

Mar 13, 2022

Door harness and module fault. Had emergency brake engage automatically while car was in gear, windows rolling up and down, key fob not working with the car while running and threatening shut down. Stabilizers needed replacing and alternator also low voltage while driving, stopped on the side of the road and would not engage into gear.

Feb 09, 2022

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaint

On Sep 25 2025 my wife parked car in parking lot to check phone messages. The car was in park. When she finished she placed the car in drive. It began to accelerated rapidly even after the brakes were applied and struck a tree. Her foot was not on the accelerator. The car then rolled over onto the driver side door. A police officer in a nearby building saw the crash and said the car was probably at 30mph when it hit the tree. He and two other officers got my wife out of the car. After the car was towed away we contacted VW customer care and asked that the car be examined. The said when the car was returned to drivable condition they would examine it. Hartford insurance totaled the car and said they were not responsible to examine the care and referred us back to VW. Again VW will not go the a salvage yard to examine the car. The car had intermittent electronic signal issues and a previous recall on doors needed to be redone because originally the wrong part was installed. I did experience a previous incident months before where I felt the car accelerated quicker than I expected from a stop with slight pressure on the pedal but it was only momentary.

Oct 31, 2025

Crash: 1

SUSPENSION

1 complaint

Noise (Rattle) coming from LH rear wheel well while driving. Brought vehicle to dealer for inspection, found LH rear coil sheared in half. Dealer replaced both rear coil springs. There was a recall for the 2018/2019 Atlas/Cross Sport for the same issue. (NHTSA #18V904000) I believe VW needs to include some if not all 2020 models as well. The failure of the coil spring was not due to abusive driving. This was poor metallurgy. I've never in my life had a coil spring fail.

Aug 01, 2025

STEERING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

1 complaint

Having issues with the vehicle Power Train, Steering, Steering wheel locked, Suspension, Blind Spot Warning, Parking Collision, Automatic Emergency Braking are just a few I can remember. After all these dashboard lights started flickering the truck wouldn't turn back on leaving me stranded at least 3 times. I have called the local Volkswagen dealership since my lease is up in a few weeks and they will not take the truck if it isn't running. They advise to have it towed to the dealership to diagnose and give an estimate of the cost to get this fixed. It started with the dashboard lights turning on an off randomly.

Jan 29, 2025

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE

1 complaint

on 11/18/24 Spark plug issues and misfire cylinder causing loss of power and acceleration with engine light check light on ,EPC and tire pressure. Other Issue with navigation system giving false of whereabout and wrong directions/turns. Occasional lost of power while driving on the street. Navigation system has been replaced twice but problem still continue. in 2021 and 2023.

Nov 20, 2024

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

1 complaint

Daylight Running Lights (LED stripe) went out but in order to replace it, the whole headlight chassis need to be replaced because it’s embedded as part of the head light chassis instead of by replacing the LED running stripe alone. This needs to be part of recall to as it’s a safety issue without daylight running lights

Nov 05, 2024

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,BACK OVER PREVENTION

1 complaint

Backup camera does not come on; cuts in and out; known recall for 2021 models.

Aug 08, 2024

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LANE DEPARTURE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaint

About two months ago, all of sudden, all of the electronic safety features were going out as reported on the dash. ECS, Lane Assist, Forward/Rear Collission sensors, side detection sensors, parking assist, tire pressure sensors, Auto Start/Stop, and more. The fact that all of these electronic assist and safety features were all disabled made the care very dangerous and confusing to drive. Changing lanes for example became a safety hazard, backing up safety hazard, lane assist, safety hazard, side view sensors safety hazard, disabled ecs - safety hazard, etc. I took the vehicle into the dealership at 57K miles and under 4 years old only to find out there were no recalls issued, warranty expired at 50K miles and a $1600 repair/service bill. This issue should be investigated and, in my opinion, turned into a safety recall. There really is no reason a car less than 4 years old should have an electronic control problem withonly 57K miles other than poor design or poor manufacturing quality causing a safety problem. Dealer has confirmed it's due to the AWD Control Module, a Pump I believe, and corroded wire harness which comes with the pump, i'm told.

Jul 18, 2024

POWER TRAIN

1 complaint

car navigation system is inaccurate. There is a severe lag in displaying where the car actually is located versus where the car is displayed on navigation. Navigation then places me in a location a mile or so away from where I am located and then reports that I am off road. The directions are inaccurate as navigation cannot locate my location accurately and in real time.

Jun 19, 2024

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE

1 complaint

While driving at approximately 10-15mph the engine shut off and was forced to come to a stop and restart the engine. The error read "Engine start/stop error, manually restart engine." I have been reading that this is a known issue by Volkswagon but they are not addressing. Luckily my car was just going onto an offramp when the engine shut off.

Jul 26, 2023

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

1 complaint

The speedometer reads significantly higher than actual speed. Took to the dealership, they confirmed speedometer reads high but allege that it is within the 10% margin that is allow by Volkswagen. Car is currently still under full warranty and dealership says they are not allowed to fix because issue is "within allowable tolerance." Speedometer will read up to 4mph high at 60-70mph. This seems to pose a significant safety risk as well as obvious risks with law enforcement. Dealership has offered no option for fixing at owners cost nor under warranty.

May 08, 2023

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaint

Adaptive cruise control (acc) will not work if you remote started the vehicle. To get it normally work, you have to fully switch off the car and then push start it. Had the vehicle checked by vw dealer and they found no problem, but the car won't engage cruise after remote start. After months of this; the remote start will not work. Carnet told me to wait on an update to be released soon.....it has been 10 months and same story every time I call. Dealer can't get it sorted even though they replaced Carnet module twice!

Oct 03, 2022

TIRES

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport equipped with Continental Tires: Tire Line: Cross Contact LX Sport, Tire Size: 245/60/R18, DOT Number: A383WC9V2920. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 65 MPH, there was vibration in the rear passenger’s side and there was a loud popping sound. The contact heard the sound of some object slapping the roadway. The contact stated that the low tire pressure warning light had illuminated seconds before the tire failed. The contact replaced the tire with the spare tire. The vehicle was taken to a tire dealer. The tire was diagnosed and it was confirmed that the tread had separated from the sidewall of the passenger’s side rear tire. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage for the vehicle and tire was 14,500.

Aug 08, 2022

SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaint

While driving down a street the car engaged the emergency stop system and stopped the car, nothing in front of me or around me. Verify scary incident.

May 01, 2022

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaint

Several weeks ago, while the vehicle was on and in park, several warning lights went off and the vehicle started beeping, both windows on the drivers' side rolled all the way down and the parking brake engaged. I was able to disengage the parking brake and roll up the windows. After turning the vehicle off and back on, the warning lights went away. This morning, after putting the vehicle in park and turning it off, both windows on the drivers' side rolled about 1/3 of the way down and the parking brake engaged. Upon turning the vehicle back on, I was able to roll the windows up and disengage the parking break.

Apr 18, 2022

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaint

The emergency brake just comes on when you're driving, the windows will roll down on their own. The dash beeps at you like the vehicle will blow up. We were advised back in January that it was not safe to drive our vehicle. It has been sitting at the dealership not being fixed. A recall just recently came out for the vehicle, however we have been unable to drive the vehicle for almost 3 months. We still have to make payments on the vehicle and Volkswagen doesn't want to do anything to help with anything. We were informed they would not provide a loaner car and a rental car we had to pay for on our own. This is completely unacceptable. The company needs to be responsible for this and I know we are not the only ones dealing with this. We will never buy another Volkswagen just because of their poor customer support. They truly dont care about their customers and the inconvenience this has caused.

Mar 28, 2022

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

1 complaint

The contact owns 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. The contact stated while driving approximately 40 MPH, the vehicle went into brake mode automatically. There was an unknown warning light that illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to a local dealer. The failure was diagnosed as a door harness failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 13,974. The VIN was not available.

Mar 17, 2022

SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,ENGINE

1 complaint

2020 Atlas Cross Sport SE 4 MOTION. At 15,000, vehicle exhibited unusual and dangerous transmission behavior that compromises the safety and longevity of the vehicle. The vehicle demonstrated severe acceleration lag from stop, revving at high RPM's before moving, harsh grinding gear shifts, "start/stop errors", and bucking at lower gears. Car was taken to service center for the first time and diagnosed with a transmission leak due to a faulty gasket, which was repaired. However, problems persisted and worsened. Shortly thereafter, car was taken a second time to service center and diagnosed with a faulty transmission valve and solenoids. Vehicle was returned, but continues to have rough gear shifts and hesitation under heavy acceleration. Car is in the service center for a third time, as of now, without fix. In addition, the vehicle was also sent to the service center for suspension issues-- unusual noise when going over bumps, and noise when turning at slow speeds. Sway bar was replaced on initial inspection, but noise while turning persists. No fix as of this complaint.

Feb 11, 2022

SEAT BELTS

1 complaint

SEAT BELTS IN REAR LEFT SIDE DO NOT RETRACT, HAVE TO MANUALLY PUSH THE SEAT BELTS BACK IN TO GET THEM TO WORK

Oct 24, 2020

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

1 complaint

WHEN USING VEHICLE REMOTE START THE VEHICLE MALFUNCTIONS WITH ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL ERROR NOT ALLOWING CRUISE CONTROL TO WORK OR DISABLES RANDOMLY WHILE USING CRUISE CONTROL. ALSO CAUSING FRONT ASSIST TO AVOID CRASH TO DISABLE.

Oct 01, 2020

STEERING,SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

STEERING MAKES CREAKING AND NOISE WHEN TURNING EVEN WHEN STOPPED. DEALER REPLACED SWAY BAR LINKS TODAY VIA TSB. PROBLEM NOT FIXED, DEALER TEST DROVE AFTER FIX AND DETERMINED IT COULD POSSIBLY BE CLOCKSPRING. OTHERS ONLINE HAVE SIMILAR ISSUES, SOME SAY REPLACEMENT OF ENTIRE RACK IS REQUIRED, I HOPE NOT.

Sep 24, 2020

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaint

OUR ATLAS WILL RANDOMLY SLAM ON ITS BRAKES AS IF AVOIDING A COLLISION ON AN EMPTY ROAD. THE LANE ASSIST WILL ALSO STEER YOU TOWARDS OBSTACLES (LIKE CONSTRUCTION BARRELS) AND FIGHT AS YOUR TRY TO CORRECT ITS ERROR. ISSUES HAVE ALL OCCURRED WHILE IN MOTION TRAVELING DOWN A 2 OR 4 LANE ROAD.

Sep 03, 2020

2020 VOLKSWAGEN Atlas Cross Sport Problems & Complaints

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