2019 VOLKSWAGEN Atlas Problems & Complaints
Real owner complaints and problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). View common issues by component.
VIN Decoder
437
Complaints Reported
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Complaints by Component
AIR BAGS
109 complaints
PODS system recall from 2023 was replaced, but now the same error message for the airbag not working for the front passenger air bag is now coming on again. VW dealership will not replace a second time, they are aware of the problem and have refused to help in any way. No passenger can be in the front passenger seat because the airbag does not turn on when the seat is occupied.
Aug 09, 2025
The contact owns a 2019 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V215000 (Air Bags). The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to a dealer for the recall repair; however, the contact was informed that parts were not yet available to repair the vehicle. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
May 29, 2025
The contact owns a 2019 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V215000 (AIR BAGS); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
May 06, 2025
I requested a repair for safety recall 69FB about a year ago and my dealer says that they still do not have the parts to make the repair. How can you decide that a problem may result in death or injury but not expedite the repair?
May 02, 2025
I have the same airbag error issues as same year and model car. They are not considering it as part of the recall.
Apr 26, 2025
+ 104 more complaints for this component
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
36 complaints
Emergency brakes activated while driving normally with no obstructions in front of me. This could've caused an accident if there were other vehicles behind me.
Sep 23, 2025
The sensors will cause the car to automatic brake when nothing is in front of it. It highly dangerous and could potential lead to a accident. this has happend multiple times since I purchased the car sind MArch 2021. I would say it happen at least once a month.
Sep 08, 2025
I was driving on the SB 55fwy in light stop and go traffic and had my ACC w/ traffic aware system engaged. My car was doing as it normally does, keeping a safe distance to the vehicle in front of me, automatically slowing, stopping and accelerating at a safe speed for the conditions. This feature I had been using on my car since I originally purchased it and paid for these safety features. When traffic was not stopped it was traveling between 15-20mph. All of the sudden my dashboard lit up with error messages, audible warnings, and check engine light, all flashing and beeping at me and before I quickly glanced at the dash to the alarming warnings, I had rear ended the car in front of me. This took me by complete shock as my car had always been overly cautious about applying emergency braking in close situations. This time it did nothing. The error message said Adaptive Cruise Control sensor had failed and along with that it had disabled all of the safety features I had become accustomed to and paid extra for, including, the emergency braking and front end collision warning. This caused almost $14k in damage to my vehicle and more so potentially could have put my entire family in danger. The sensor failure caused the accident, the damage to the other car that I was traveling behind and any potential injuries from the driver of that car. I have given this same statement to my insurance company, however no one has reached out to investigate the cause of the failure, not even the dealership service center, where I had originally had my damaged car towed to so they could check and verify with their scan tools that I had a faulty sensor. Also my vehicle had just been serviced the month prior and all software was updated at Norm Reeves Volkswagen, Irvine, CA.
Aug 21, 2025
The contact owns a 2019 Volkswagen Atlas. While the contact's wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the automatic braking system independently activated. No warning light was illuminated. In addition, the contact stated that the instrument cluster displayed two vehicles crashing. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The contact stated that the failure had previously occurred twice. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 62,192.
Jul 03, 2025
My adaptive cruise control constantly gives an error, and as a result the cruise control does not work. VW is not fixing it, even under warranty as they state its a calibration issue. Upon further research, this appears to be a known issue. A quick search of "VW Atlas ACC" pull up all the forums. Here are two such links: [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
May 23, 2025
+ 31 more complaints for this component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
26 complaints
My engine light is on. I got a diagnostic test which shows the catalytic converter is failing (emissions related). This should be included in the current 2020 recall 24FK but my VIN is not included in the recall. I don't understand why it's currently not included. Can it be added?
Dec 09, 2025
Water pump failure leading to replacemnet of of water pump and valve cover gasket on engine. 2019 Atlas vehicles have been covered in a recent settlement but my trim model did not qualify.
Oct 28, 2025
My water pump is going bad with only 64,505 miles on it. My VIN number wasn’t included in the federal emissions warranty of 80,000 miles or 8 years. I believe this is an oversight. Please review why my vehicle was excluded from the extended warranty.
Aug 28, 2025
My 2019 Volkswagen Atlas 3.6L has shut off multiple times while driving, including once at 55 mph. I consistently receive a “Stop/Start System Error” message at startup. As of today, the check engine light has come on and there is an extremely strong smell of gasoline at the rear of the vehicle after driving. The fuel smell is intense enough to make me concerned about fire risk. I have young children, and this is my only vehicle. The combination of engine stalling, an active check engine light, and a raw gas smell poses a serious safety hazard to my family and others on the road. This appears to match known issues under VW’s recall 20V716000 for cracked fuel injectors and TSB 01-23-09 for engine control software glitches. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate whether more 2019 VW Atlas vehicles—including mine—should be included in these recalls, and whether VW is providing adequate support to affected families. I cannot safely drive my vehicle, and I cannot afford a rental. This is an urgent public safety concern.
May 15, 2025
My vehicle cut off twice while idling. The 2nd time I was sitting at a red-light and it was very busy. There was no warning or lights that appeared on the dashboard. Although I currently use the automatic starter system, this should not be an issue that puts me and my family in unsafe conditions. This is the first time this has happened, so I have not taken it to the dealership. After chatting with other Atlas owners who are having the same issue, it was suggested to report the issue to you all. It is my perception that this becominga recall issue.
Nov 23, 2024
+ 21 more complaints for this component
SERVICE BRAKES
26 complaints
Brake booster faulty, alert continuously came on and off while driving at different speeds created drastic changes in cars braking ability that were potentially hazardous if driver did not pull over.
Jul 07, 2025
While driving approx 20MPH while turning a corner in a neighborhood, the FAULT BRAKE BOOSTER warning went off and braked my vehicle. The car continued to flash this warning and the brakes were not easily depressed (felt somewhat like when ABS happens in icy roads). This happened multiple times until I could get home.Took the vehicle to VW dealer and they replaced a sensor. 3 weeks later the same warning and braking situation happened while in a parking lot. Returned to dealer and still being evaluated. Online, this is a recall for 2019 Atlas' but not for my VIN. Concerned this should be included in a recall. Worried for my safety as this has happened multiple times including after repair and causes the car brakes to go automatically and unexpectedly.
Feb 27, 2024
At random times, at random speeds, my instrument lights will illuminate with a beep and display the brake light. Sometimes just the brake icon, sometimes the brake and ABS, and sometimes both along with the engine light. At the same time my vehicle will violently brake on its own. When I depress the brake pedal to gain control the pedal is "jerky", rigid, and difficult to push in. Sometimes this lasts for a moment, sometimes longer. This is very dangerous and seems to occur more frequently. A 'Brake Booster Faulty' message appears on the dash.then dissappears
Sep 21, 2023
The vehicle will make a loud alarm and the dash will display "Brakes Booster Faulty". The vehicle then will brake itself regardless of where you are and brake pedal will not work properly. This could cause you to get rear-ended as the vehicle will simply stop!
Aug 31, 2023
I have had the same issue with this car since I’ve bought it when. The issue is that often my dash beeps and says faulty break booster and then my breaks lock up and become spongy and the vehicle has issues breaking. Very scary and very dangerous. Then the “break” warning indicator light illuminates and the vehicle eventually resets itself and goes back to normal functioning. My vehicle has been at the dealer at least four times during the warranty period for this exact same problem. It has also been there for a recall for rattling noises, air hissing out of gas tank when gas cap is unscrewed, and air conditioner going out. My car is currently in shop again for FAULTY BREAK BOOSTER. Others are having this same problem all over the internet. I want VW to honor me a manufacture buyback which I have already initiated the process for as my car meets the Louisiana Lemon Law Criteria’s. I want VW to fix these problems on this model for future consumers as well. I have submitted all of my supporting documents to VWGOA
Jul 22, 2023
+ 21 more complaints for this component
STEERING
19 complaints
The electronic steering gear is malfunctioning and making a clicking sound when the steering wheel is turned at 90-degree angles in either direction. The dealership (Bud Brown VW, Olathe, KS) advised me that they have had 3 VW Atlas vehicles with the same problem over the past month. I believe this is a manufacturer defect that could cause loss of steering and potential injury or loss of life.
Oct 23, 2025
Driving at highway speeds when the vehicle hit certain bumps the front end would wobble and cause significant vibration and loss of control steering (death wobble). This was reproduced by both and independent shop as well as mechanics at West End Volkswagen in Henrico Virginia. They replaced the entire steering rack to resolve the problem. They stated while I was there that this was the second steering rack on an Atlas this week they had replaced. The problem started around [XXX] and was fixed on 7/9/25. I don't currently have the original part and I don't know whether the Volkswagen dealership kept it. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Jul 10, 2025
My steering wheel and front wheels shake uncontrollably make it dangerous to drive . A complete rack and pinion needed to be replace . The atlas only has 85000 miles . This happened at as slow as 10 miles an hour. Making the vehicle very unstable
May 23, 2025
-Service inspection on my vehicle found my steering rack is failing (video at dealership and service report notes this) -Due to no part availability from the manufacturer, we were unable to repair the vehicle at this time -I inquired about a loaner vehicle when picking up the vehicle at the dealership and was instructed to call customer service -Customer service stated they did not have control over a loaner and instructed me to call dealer again (Case number [XXX]) -Due to safety concerns as well as risk for further damaging the vehicle, I am unable to continue to drive my car in its current condition -When discussing the issue with the dealership they stated they did not have enough loaners to offer a vehicle and instructed me to again call customer service Upon investigation it appears VW Atlas vehicles 2019 has not issued a recall on the steering rack. Forums from customers have stated things like “you are 400th on the list to receive this part” I have been told another customer attempted to drive their vehicle in the 7 months they have been waiting on a steering rack and the vehicle is now no longer drivable but was also instructed by the technician that “the vehicle is safe to drive” INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
May 18, 2025
My wife and children are currently stranded 800 miles from home after our Volkswagen began shaking severely on the freeway. She brought the vehicle to Douglas VW in NJ, where the service team confirmed the steering rack is failing and verified the symptoms she experienced. Despite this, they told her it could take up to a year to fully fail and that it was “safe” to drive—an unacceptable and dangerous recommendation. We were then told the part is back-ordered for up to a year. Volkswagen has refused to provide a loaner vehicle during this wait, leaving my family without transportation. Meanwhile, we’ve been offered only a $1,500 credit toward a new vehicle, which does nothing to address the immediate issue. This is not an isolated case. It’s well documented online that this is a recurring issue with this year, make, and model. We’ve also been told the shortage is due to the part being reengineered, and that VW is prioritizing new vehicle production over existing customers dealing with critical failures. This is not just inconvenient—it’s unsafe. Volkswagen’s refusal to provide adequate support leaves my family in an impossible position through no fault of our own. We are asking for immediate action. Our case number with VW customer is [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
May 14, 2025
+ 14 more complaints for this component
ENGINE
18 complaints
My vehicle has P0420 and P0430 code errors, indicating a problem with the catalytic converters/emission system. There is a current recall on 2018 VW Atlas vehicles for this issue, but it does not include my vehicle. It appears this recall needs to be extended as the same issue is occurring on other 2018 VW Atlas vehicles.
Nov 19, 2025
In July 2022, VW replaced the cylinder head and gaskets of my 2019 VW Atlas due to warped head. The vehicle was brought in for service because the low coolant light was on. The repair was done under warranty. In January 2024, the low coolant light came on again 31k miles after the first repair. We were told it was normal for this vehicle to burn coolant. Service refilled coolant. Since that time customer would refill the coolant when the low coolant light came on which was approximately every 6 months. Customer made appointment to bring in the vehicle because the low coolant seemed to be more frequent with evidence of a coolant leak. On November 6, 2025, service department informed customer that the Water pump was bad and needed to be replaced. On November 7, 2025, service department informed customer that they couldn't hold pressure and they had to test the block which would be on November 10, 2025. On November 10, 2025, service department informed customer that coolant was leaking into the head due to warped head.
Nov 10, 2025
The contact owns a 2019 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated while driving at approximately 60-75 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power, causing the vehicle to decelerate to approximately 25 MPH. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer, where the cause of the failure could not be determined. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 68,000.
Sep 25, 2024
The engine mount of my 2019 VW Atlas SE failed around April 2024. The specific part (Engine Mounting Right 3QF199262G) has been unavailable since then. There were no warning lights before the failure. My mechanic identified the problem when the engine started moving forward and backward with gear changes. This issue caused the steering wheel to vibrate while driving and made the vehicle harder to control, especially at stops where the vibration became severe. Both my mechanic and I contacted various dealers across multiple states, but none had the part available, with one dealer mentioning a waitlist of around 300 Atlas vehicles needing the same part. Despite initial promises of delivery by mid-August, the part’s arrival has been delayed. We eventually found the part on eBay and ordered it from Latvia, but we are still waiting for it to arrive. The failure of the engine mount presents a significant safety risk to both drivers and passengers, given the critical role the engine plays in the vehicle’s operation.
Aug 26, 2024
The car would randomly stall in the middle of intersections after leaving a stop and a message in the dash said I needed to restart manually. Then I have to put the car in park and restart. This has happened over 5 times, the first was 2 years ago and the last 4 on the last four months. We have almost been hit multiple times. If my vehicle acts up in the wrong situation, it could not only cause a major accident affecting me and others in my vehicle, plus unsuspecting people on the road. There were no warning signs or messages prior to the failure. This is very scary and frustrating. Every time it happed we have took it to the dealer and it is always a different thing. Right now , the vehicle is in the dealer since July 19, 2024, and still they have not communicated to me what its happening with the vehicle.
Jul 25, 2024
+ 13 more complaints for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
12 complaints
The radio keeps turning off and on and random stuff keeps popping up on the dash I have read that atlas models from 2019 to 2023 have wiring harness issues why Is there no recall for this and all research I have done with what is going on is leading up to a wiring harness issue
Dec 18, 2025
On [XXX], when I was driving the car at [XXX] at normal speed, suddenly my car accelerator stopped working (Not moving forward while giving the throttle) and I hardly managed to pull my car to the side from the middle row of the road and the car stopped its engine. I saw an indication in the tachometer -EPC. I waited for 30 seconds as I was panic, then I tried to restart the car, it started after a few seconds and the EPC error slowly disappeared. I was so frightened and managed to drive the car to the hotel later. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Dec 27, 2024
Our instrument panel went completely black. It wouldn’t display any information and wouldn’t fix itself. We took it to the dealer and it was replaced on our dime for $2300
Jun 28, 2024
I work for an Automotive Tool supplier and closely follow ADAS calibration information. I’ve noticed a sharp uptick of posts and comments that ADAS systems calibration equipment produced by Autel and Topdon are often providing incorrect and inaccurate calibration information. The latest comment I saw today was a user calibrated a 2019 VW Atlas using an Autel ADAS calibration stand and the vehicle did not function correctly after the calibration. He discovered the information provided by the tool was drastically incorrect. How are Autel and Topdon still allowed to sell tools that are incorrectly calibrating sensitive safety systems in the US? These tools by Autel and Topdon will cause ADAS systems to function incorrectly in emergency situations.
May 24, 2024
At red light the auto stop start won't turn the car back on. The battery drains in less than 5 minutes and needs a jump. Or sometimes it won't "auto start" and I have to move the selector to Park and push the start button. This also happens when the engine is off, but the accessories are on. Just listening to the radio for 5 minutes seems to drain the battery and the car won't start and needs a jump. After a jump, the battery does charge back up when driven and holds its charge. I now try to remember to disable the auto stop start as this behavior is unacceptable. I recently had a new battery put in, and a new BCM and ECM, and this problem still happens. The car is at the dealer now.
Oct 31, 2023
+ 7 more complaints for this component
POWER TRAIN
12 complaints
MY Volkswagen atlas Transmission appears to be making a grinding, screeching or squealing noise when accelerating at low speeds. Sounds to me like a bad torque converter but its not a normal noise. It also seems to not accelerate when this noise happens and if it stops when I pull into traffic I'll get hit. I took it to a dealer in NJ, said he has had others complain and that there is nothing they can do. My car is till under warranty, but they refuse to fix it. Its not safe!!!
Nov 27, 2023
Grinding and squealing noise when accelerating from stop to go as it last for up to 5 seconds each time.
Aug 06, 2023
Since the purchase of this vehicle in 2019 I have complained that it was not shifting gears properly and upon first acceleration the Atlas would feel jumpy or hesitate. When slowing down even at 5 or 10 mph the vehicle would stay in 3rd gear. In June 2020 I had it documented, VW tech tested vehicle and stated performing to manufacturer's specs. It stayed like this and I took to another dealer in April 2021, Nov 2021, & Dec 2021 & was told transmission fine, then it began making a loud noise at 60 mph, car would softly shake or vibrate & took back to dealer in Feb 2022 and it was found that the transmission was faulty. Big chunks of metal scrap were found in pan by dealer tech. VW advised dealer to change out transmission & cooler for a new one. Vehicle was returned to me with new transmission & cooler. I have since noticed that it continues to jump or hesitate at first acceleration and I am afraid that I will continue to have the issue and my vehicle will no longer be under warranty in a few thousand miles. NO WARNING lights or messages ever appeared so to them it was fine until the sound was undeniable and big chunks of metal were found. This is unsafe for anyone to drive around with a faulty transmission.
Mar 21, 2022
ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS, THE VEHICLE HAS STALLED COMPLETELY WHILE AT RED LIGHTS OR STOPPED IN TRAFFIC, BOTH IN THE CITY AND ON MAJOR HIGHWAYS. (THE DATE PROVIDED IS THE MOST RECENT, BUT THE CONDITION HAS HAPPENED SINCE THE PURCHASE IN AUGUST 2019). I'VE HAD TO COMPLETELY RESTART THE CAR. THIS IS DANGEROUS BECAUSE ANXIOUS DRIVERS BEHIND BEGIN TO MOVE FORWARD EXPECTING THAT I SHOULD ALSO, NOT TO MENTION THE HORN HONKING AND HAND GESTURES THAT HAVE OCCURRED. I HAD A VERY NEAR MISS THIS PAST WEEKEND IN THIS EXACT SCENARIO.
Nov 18, 2020
FIRST TIME I HAD A TRANSMISSION LEAK WAS @215 MILES. THEY REPLACED THE TRANSMISSION OIL COOLER ADAPTER. JUST ROLLED OVER 30K, AND HAVE HAD 2 OTHER TOCA REPLACED SINCE THEN. CALLED VW TO ASK ABOUT LEMON LAW, WAS DECLINED. MY CAR HAS BEEN ALL HIGHWAY MILES, NEVER ONCE OFF-ROAD.
Oct 14, 2020
+ 7 more complaints for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
12 complaints
Start/stop error lightafter already replaced by dealership Brake booster faulty EPC light comes on-off randomly
Sep 11, 2023
While driving on the highway, a warning flashed on the dashboard- FAULTY BRAKE BOOSTER. The pressure of the brake pedal was significantly diminished and was accompanied by a clicking sound. The red brake warning light illuminated. After 5 minutes, proper brake functioning was restored. Within a period of 20 minutes, the above sequence of events was repeated 3 times. After stopping and parking, the warning light went out. Upon start up later in the day, the same Faulty Brake Booster warning sounded and the brakes again were spongy and choppy. The following day, when driving to the VW dealership, the same message flashed on the dash multiple times and brake functioning was impaired.
Jun 26, 2023
ABS and Brake warning light come on dash making the break pedal click, causing the car to break abruptly or lock. Usually happens while at a complete stope or if driving below 30 to 20 miles an hour.
May 21, 2023
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The vehicle had a warning come up on the dashboard, the warning was as follows: “Brake Booster Faulty”. The brakes then felt like ABS was engaged (brake pedal pulsating) and the brakes fully engaged and took the car to a full and complete stop from 20 miles per hour. After turning the car off and back on the warning had gone away and we continued on. The warning then came on two additional times during the same trip and instead of stopping the car, the brakes would pulse and not work as well as should be expected. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Brakes did not work as expected and slammed themselves, had this occurred on the freeway that could have caused a pile up. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? No, but it has happened on multiple occasions and the dealer told us it was fixed previously. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? Currently being inspected by the dealer. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? As noted the “Brake booster faulty” error flashes on the dashboard when this problem occurs.
May 30, 2022
While stopped at a stop light the parking brake will come on without being in park and without any notification. The warning lights on the dash will all light up at random times. One day while driving the locks all started locking and unlocking on all four doors on their own while I was driving.
Mar 19, 2022
+ 7 more complaints for this component
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
7 complaints
The 80 valves have been replaced 4 times. This causes my car to stall, leaving me at the mercy of incoming traffic. The guarantee is about to expire, leaving me with a problem that will cause financial and physical risk of the car stalling. This has been a recurring problem since I purchased the car
May 17, 2025
The car stalls when pulling out. We have had many close calls entering traffic and the car will not react to giving it gas. I’ve taken it to three dealers who all say it is not showing a code and they can’t get it to reproduce the problem. I bought the car new and it has less than 60,000 miles. It does it in all types of weather, extreme cold and hot weather, going uphill or downhill, several times stopping at the mailbox the engine dies and I have to restart. It does it even when the start-stop system is disengaged. There were no warnings beforehand, no one has been able to confirm the problem, no one has inspected any components. I’ve asked three different dealerships to find the problem with no luck. My car is available for inspection.
Mar 14, 2025
vehicle constantly shuts down in the middle of road and have to put in park and restart. all signs point to faulty EVAP system which seems to be the largest VW problem in EVERY forum that I have come across to figure out how to fix it. I have contacted the dealer and the dealer are not nice people and very money hungry. I have had to buy and change out charcoal canister myself.
Jan 10, 2025
2019 VW Atlas SE V6 fwd with 66,xxx miles USA. Just very recently at this mileage I experienced stalling at low speeds or coming to stop and engine has died on 2 occasions. Once reversing out of my driveway sand dealing getting reverse to neutral to eventually fully stop and to shift into drive as I occasionally do but this time the engine died as I shifted to neutral. No known warning lights at that time. Second time I came to slow and then stop at a median to u turn as I've done numerous times but while stopping there waiting for cross traffic to clear, engine died and dash message said to restart manually. I put into neutral and restarted car. Days after, I see dash message of error, start stop disabled/malfunction. Thereafter for almost a week, start/stop would not engage at all. I researched and had a gut feeling that the service campaign letter I received from VW regarding charcoal canister extended warranty would be relevant. My gut feeling, and research, and now finally confirmed by dealership, the issue is in fact the charcoal canister and N80 valve. I now lost confidence in VW quite beyond fully. My very first issue was the sway bar end link issue which I think became a service campaign issue. I wasn't informed of any issue in this case but felt a gradual degradation in handling and ride quality around 3x,xxx miles and took it into dealership to inspect. End links replaced under warranty with updated parts and car felt normal and can to itself. Second big issue and annoyance was the passenger airbag detection system. I received letter that my car affected and thought a fix would arrive soon but was paranoid about having front passenger riding bc the issue was that system might not detect person sitting there and not deploy airbag in accident. Frustrating to have a fix come almost a year later!!!! Other issue, leaking or low or missing coolant warning, cylinder misfire and water pump replaced.
Dec 18, 2024
While driving my 2019 Volkswagen Atlas, there was a sudden and significant loss of power accompanied by a check engine light and "ECP" warning light. My engine was sputtering and and would not accelerate. I immediately needed to pull off the road as it was not safe for other drivers. I turned the car off and then back on. The "ECP" light went away but the CEL remained and the engine still had a noticeable sputter. I brought my car to a local VW dealer for inspection. They diagnosed the issue as a faulty fuel injector that needed immediate replacement. Any further damage could cause a fuel leak which may lead to a fire hazard. They told me this was a known issue with VW Atlas'. After doing some further research, I see that an NHTSA investigation has already been issued regarding this issue. There are multiple Atlas owners who have reported the exact same issue. I reported this to VW customer service today and they told me they did not consider this a widespread issue, and until a recall is issued, there is nothing they can/will do. There have been no issues with the car prior to this, and this issue occurred out of the blue. It is extremely frustrating because, not only is this resulting in an insanely expensive repair, but my son was in the car with me when the car suddenly lost power on a busy highway. This is a significant issue impacting a larger population of VW owners. Thankfully for us, this was caught before there was a major fuel leak and danger of fire like many others have reported.
Sep 14, 2022
+ 2 more complaints for this component
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
6 complaints
The vehicle experienced sudden loss of engine power accompanied by the illumination of the EPC (Electronic Power Control) warning light. The exact cause is fuel injection, but the issue appears related to the know EVAP problem on this car model. The problem may still be reproducible. The vehicle stalled multiple times while driving on a state highway (steady low load) and when approaching traffic. In each case, I had to come to a complete stop and restart the engine. This posed a serious risk of rear-end collisions or being struck by cross traffic, especially when power was lost during deceleration or merging. The EPC light appeared each time the issue occurred, immediately after the engine lost power. No other warning lights or messages were observed prior to/after the failure. The problem began occurring intermittently and without prior symptoms.
Jul 30, 2025
While operating the vehicle, it will turn off randomly when coming to a stop. It happens at street lights, stop signs or slow moving traffic. This happens even while manually turning off the auto-stop feature. This is dangerous because in order to turn it on again, the car requires you to be at a complete stop with the vehicle in park. This can lead to an accident on the highway while in slow traffic, going uphill on a bridge, going over train tracks, etc. I have not sent it back to the dealer. This is a known issue with the VW Atlas though. No warning lamps or messages appear in the vehicle.
May 21, 2025
The car keeps jerking and stalling when in traffic, car line or just driving very slowly. It feels like there is not enough fuel coming to the engine and it shuts off. The message that comes on the screen- Please start engine manually. I have been numerous times to the dealer but they say they can’t help me as there is no code. Obviously the car has issues and I want someone to be responsible for them. It is dangerously to driver it like that. I have kids that I driver to school and I don’t feel safe driving it.
Sep 23, 2024
Unit will not start when showing 1/4 tank of fuel on a 3.85 degree decline. Fear of duplication of condition while in use on roadside. Condition is normal according to the manufacture. Condition is normal according to the manufacturer. P0089 and P0087 active with 1/4 tank on MFD display on a 3.85 degree decilne.
Aug 29, 2023
FUEL INJECTOR CRACKED AT 21K MILES WHILE ON THE HIGHWAY. FUEL WAS SPEWING ALL OVER THE ENGINE AND GROUND. THERE WAS A BURNING SMELL AND LOUD WINDING NOISE AS WELL. ALSO LOSS OF POWER AND ACCELERATION. HAD JUST ENOUGH POWER TO GET OFF OF THE HIGHWAY. WAS VERY WORRIED. POSSIBLE FIRE RISK.
Dec 10, 2020
+ 1 more complaint for this component
SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
6 complaints
While approaching an intersection at about 20 mph, vehicle suddenly applied the front collision braking and almost caused an accident from the vehicle behind me. There were no vehicles in front of me or any other obstacles. Other 2019 models have been recalled with he same issue for a harness wiring or software update. This is dangerous and risks my family's life.
Sep 27, 2024
The ABS or AES malfunctioned while driving. The brakes were automatically applied, without warning, with a medium amount of traffic and vehicles behind me. This poses a significant safety issue to myself and others when the brakes get applied without warning. A vehicle behind me had to swerve to avoid rear-ending me and others had to go around me on an onramp to the highway. I am taking my vehicle to Volkswagen of Waco today to have this issue looked at. I am also looking into a dashcam to see if I can get the issue on camera in case the dealership isn't able to duplicate the issue. This issue has occurred other times, this has not been an isolated incident. I do get a faulty brake booster light while the vehicle is braking so there is no warning before it happens, just me flying into my steering wheel.
Apr 22, 2024
I was driving on the highway around 60 mph. Without warning, my car's brakes fully engaged. There was no car or object ahead of me. A warning light that had the words "Brake Booster" was displayed but I couldn't make out what else it said as I was trying to regain control of the vehicle. Thankfully, there was no one behind me otherwise this could very well have resulted in a high-speed accident. The car went from 60 mph to around 20 mph. I pulled off the side of the road as quickly as possible.
May 03, 2023
On eight occasions this morning the faulty brake booster light has come on and the ABS light and brake light are also on inside my vehicle. The brakes are squishy and almost don’t feel like they work to 50% capacity. They are jerky and click and does not seem like a simple antilock braking system problem. This is happened randomly over the last three years that I’ve owned this vehicle. But it has never happened this many times consecutively in the short period of time. I’m afraid for the safety of driving this vehicle.
Jun 24, 2022
The vehicle engaged the parking brake when there was nothing in front of me. This happened twice in one day. I currently have it at the VW dealership.
May 04, 2022
+ 1 more complaint for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
5 complaints
Car will randomly stop when using the auto start/stop feature. It can do this at slow speeds or when slowing down. Huge risk.
Aug 10, 2025
When coming to stop car will turn off at random. Car will still be in drive and alert comes up that says to restart the engine. Requires me to quickly put car in park and restart car in order to drive. This has happened numerous times for no apparent reason.
Jun 28, 2025
While driving the vehicle turns off automatically... and you are prompted to restart the vehicle. On Saturday while in traffic the vehicle has turned off on three occasions. This is highly dangers... To be more specific, it tell you to put he car in PARK and restart.
May 19, 2025
On two occasions the Auto Start/Stop system has engaged and turned off the engine at a stop light (performing correctly), but then failed to restart the vehicle. The vehicle did not provide any error message, it just did not try to restart and began rolling forward when the brakes were disengaged. The vehicle was then required to be placed in park and manually restarted. This presents a safety concern at a stop light as you could be rear ended if the car behind you is anticipating you to start driving.
Oct 13, 2022
Problem first started in April 2022, start/stop malfunction, then the engine light would come on and car would decelerate until I pull over to the side of the road and turn off the engine. Once it restarted then it was okay. Brought it to the Dealer and they fixed it. Got the car back and it was working fine. However we noticed that the car RPMs would go up when pressing on the brake. Then in July into August while driving on the toll-roads at 65-70 mph, car engine would make straining noise then ETC and engine light come on, then the car decelerate. We press on the gas pedal and it would not pick up speed. It drastically reduced speed from 70 mph to 55mph. We would have to move to the shoulder and turn car off. Wait then then start the car. The car would be fine for another 2 weeks, before doing same thing. Finally on 8/26/22 it did same thing reduced speed on toll-road, would not pick up speed, ETC and Engine light came on with radiator light. But then it also overheated. We drove it home at 15mph. Then had it towed to dealer to be fixed, the radiator light was still on. We are hoping that this time it will be fixed and not cause any more trouble. Dealer is working on fixing the problems.
Aug 30, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
4 complaints
While driving 25 mph with no traffic or people around the car came to an extreme sudden stop and without warning. The dashboard lit up red with warning lights and warning alarms sounded followed by complete shutdown of cars systems. No skidding or tire screach - just an instant forceful stop, as if engine cutoff and breaks forcefully seized simultaneously. We were able to restart car and immediately drove to dealership a couple miles away to report an extreme safety concern. Because there was no traffic or people around we feel it has something to do with a sensor and the automatic breaking system. The car was dropped at local dealership (LowCountry Volkswagen - Mount Pleasant SC) for inspection. This was a dramatic event and safety for driver and others was put at risk due to such a forceful stop. We have serious concerns driving vehicle. What would.happen of system failed driving at higher speeds or if traffic was around? Vehicle has been at dealership for 1 day and problem has not been duplicated. Vehicle has not been inspected by manufacturer, police, or insurance but can be made available. Dashboard lit up with red warning lights at time of incident. There were no warning lights or messages prior to incident.
Jul 10, 2025
Started with entertainment center reboot itself and dash navigation. Dealer did an software update . then front collision warning would go off… NO ONE AROUND . No cars on road. dealer did another software update to resolve issue. Then Remote start stopped working acc light ecc on dash. Code cleared software update agin. Few months later. At a light car running Car then turned off on incline .. was in light snow. Didn’t know as auto start stop was on. Car began to slide backwards. Had to quickly put car in park and start manually. Went to dealer they found nothing wrong. Car seemed to be always turning off in park or right after remote start was used and car or when placed in park at incline. Dealer could never replicate car turning off. few months later entertainment center began to reboot and so did dash navigation . Took it into dealer again and they did another software update again and also did and update for recall on emissions. This is when rear emergency braking began. It would would activate all the time. No ONE around says check your surroundings then the Emergency braking will kick on locking up all 4wheels. Now front collision warning going off now again with No ONE around. Went back to dealer they once again could not reproduce emergency braking turning or check your rear surroundings warning. they said known issue with emergency braking activating but don’t have a fix yet.
Mar 13, 2023
I originally filed a complaint regarding my vehicle wiring harness issue which has been recalled recently. It is stated "no fix is available" at this time. My Atlas has been at the dealer for 57 days as of today. SMITH VW let me know that they have received a wiring harness to replace in my vehicle.... but WHY if the recall specifically states " NO FIX is available". Is another defective wiring harness being installed as a short term remedy?I told VW corporate I was contacting an attorney for assistance on Tuesday AM, 24 hours later the part magically became available to install in my 2019 Atlas??
Mar 23, 2022
VW PERFORMED AN EMISSIONS RECALL SOFTWARE UPDATE ON THIS VEHICLE APPROXIMATELY 6 MONTHS AGO. SINCE THIS SOFTWARE UPDATE WAS PERFORMED THE ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL DOES NOT WORK AFTER USING THE VEHICLES OEM REMOTE START. THE ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL WORKS WHEN NOT USING REMOTE START HOWEVER. THEY HAVE SO FAR REFUSED TO OFFER A FIX.
Jan 02, 2021
VISIBILITY/WIPER
4 complaints
Windshield wiper falls out of alignment when operated in freezing temperatures. Maintenance log reports "Wiper caused by being stuck and being operated in weather conditions"
Jan 30, 2024
Windshield wiper failure for the 5th time after repairs at VW dealership. The wiper timing on the drivers side continues to fall out of sync. The wiper sensor does not detect wiper failure.
Mar 10, 2022
The windshield wipers stop functioning after cold freezing snow and rain. I have had the wipers repaired 4 times, but the issues continue to happen. The wipers fall out of timing, the wiper motor fails, and the fastening design strips out preventing the wiper to correct itself. The most serious failure happened while driving on the highway. The vehicle is under warranty and has been serviced 4 times.
Feb 07, 2022
WE HAVE RAIN SENSING WIPERS, BUT WE KEEP THE CONTROL IN THE OFF POSITION. UNFORTUNATELY, WHILE DRIVING ON SUNNY DAYS, THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS SPORADICALLY GO OFF. THERE WILL BE TIMES WHERE THEY WILL WIPE JUST ONCE, BUT THEN THERE ARE TIMES WHERE IT JUST GOES OFF FOR MINUTES AT A TIME. IT COULD BE A SMOOTH ROAD OR A BUMPY ROAD. IT COULD BE AT A SHOW SPEED OR HIGH SPEED. DOESN'T MATTER. THE DEALERSHIP TOLD US THAT WE HAD THE SENSITIVITY TOO HIGH, BUT IN THE OFF POSITION, THEY SHOULDN'T GO OFF AT ALL. THIS IS A DAILY OCCURRENCE. AS IF THERE IS A SHORT SOMEWHERE. PLEASE HELP AS WE NEED THIS FIXED. A NEW VEHICLE SHOULDN'T HAVE AN ISSUE LIKE THIS. *TR
May 09, 2020
TIRES
4 complaints
We purchased our Volkswagen Atlas in September of 2019 and have driven it under 27,000 miles. In that time we have had 3 flat tires. The first one was when we first got it and was triggered by a hit to the curb. It was a gentle hit that surprised that it caused a flat. A few days ago on a clear day on a smooth road, we heard a pop from our front passenger tire. It was a flat. There was no pothole or object in the road. We took to the dealer and spent $1,500 where they replaced that tire and also replaced the front drivers tire due to dry rot cracks found in the thread. They also completed 4 wheel alignment. The next day I was driving and the pressure light came on and we had a flat tire in the back passenger side. As with the day earlier, there was nothing in the road and no pothole. It was a clear day. It made me google to see if there was some issue with these tires and I found this link [XXX] which states that " (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Atlas vehicles equipped with Continental tires. On the affected vehicles, it is possible that one or more tires were cured for too long during tire production." It does not appear when I check my vin number but to have 3 flat tires with less than 30,000 miles with at least two of them triggered by nothing that we could discern, I believe we may have been one of the 2019 Atlas's with these issues. Volkswagen was not helpful about this recall. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Sep 20, 2023
255/50 R20 105 KUMHO 7 CRUGEN PREMIU 23186 MILES FRONT TIRES ARE COMPLETELY WORN OUT. CAR ONLY HAS 28,000 MILES. IT CAUSES CAR TO LOSE TRACTION AND SKID.
Jan 17, 2022
Tire sidewall separating causing an immediate flat tire while traveling in the fast lane at 70mph on the freeway. This put me and other vehicles at risk as it was with no warning, just immediately a flat tire. Dealer was called and seems uninterested in seeing the tire as it was not apart of the most recent recall regarding this same issue with Continental tires. Continental tire manufacturer also seems uninterested in helping as the tire was replaced by a different brand as that was the only option on Labor Day so I could return home due to being 400 miles from home at the time of the incident.
Sep 07, 2021
VW Atlas with 17000 miles Front passenger tire 255/50R20. Car started shaking and pulling to right while traveling on interstate with low tire pressure warning going off. Put all passengers and cars around us at risk. Pulled off interstate to inspect and tread appeared widened and bead seemed to be dislodging from rim. Replaced with spare tire and took car to dealer we purchased from they inspected and informed our vin number is not on recall list and told us we would have to sign a wavier to take the car in its unsafe condition. This recall needs to be expanded immediately.
Jul 23, 2021
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
4 complaints
Vehicle emergency break activates, unable to release, or when teleased after multiple attempts the light continues flashing on the break button and warning alert on the dasboard. The first time it happened i arrived to destination and parked, when parked as i am waiting it activated when the door was opened. It has not been inspeacted yet, it fist started about 1 week ago. Its unpredictable when it will happen.
May 05, 2023
While driving( multiple scenarios ranging from 10 mph, 70 mph, 30 mph and even while car was parked) alarm would go off and message displaying “brake booster faulty” while also illuminating the “brake” light on dashboard. Brake pedal then becomes stiff and/or spongy, while not working properly. Once car is turned off and back on, “ABS” light is also illuminated. Could not brake my car today with 2 children in backseat. Very dangerous.
Nov 18, 2022
I was driving the car about 30 mph when it abruptly came to a screeching halt. All warning lights on the dashboard lit up. There was no other cars in front of me or behind me. This could have caused a rear end collision had there been a car behind me. The engine did not die but the brake came off and I was able to start driving again. This threw me forward and I almost hit my chest against the steering wheel. I have taken the car to the Ken Garff VW dealership in Orem, UT. They said this is a known problem by VW corporate, but the do not have a fix because it is a faulty cable harness manufactured in Ukraine. They also said I was not eligible for a fix because they can not make it recreate the problem. They suggested that I call VW corporate which I did. VW corporate called me back and said they would get back to me in 4 business days. I told them this was unacceptable. When called back the next day they informed me that Ken Garff VW had not been able to recreate the problem and could not find the error in the computer system so it must not have happened. This is a known problem and VW is refusing responsibility and said there is nothing they can do about it. I asked if they would buy the car at fair market value and they said that would be at the discretion of the dealer. I am scared to drive this vehicle with my kids in the car and I fear for anyone else driving or following behind a VW Atlas. This is an accident and possible death waiting to happen. I have shared the same fears with VW and they told me according to the computer it never happened. The lack of responsibility is disappointing.
Apr 03, 2022
9/2019Just purchased and driving home from dealership, approximately 4 miles driven, stopped at traffic light. Light turned green. Car started going forward and then engine turned off completely. Sudden stop. Car was in drive, no warning lights, just the auto wasn’t operating. Stuck in traffic. Moved shift lever to Park tried restarting. Car would not start. After numerous attempts car started. Immediately drove back to dealership. Told no codes displayed. Nothing to worry about. Salesman said they tightened battery cables. 1/2020Stopped in stop/go traffic on interstate. Auto on/off disengaged. While starting to move forward car stopped completely and parking brake engaged stopping the car suddenly. Car turned off. All lights on dash lit, then went off. Took numerous attempts to restart. Electrical smell present 2/2020Auto stop was was turned off. Stopped at elevated train crossing by lowered gates and passing train. Foot on brake whole time. After train passed accelerated but car was not running. Car actually started rolling backwards when foot taken off brake.No dash lights or warning of any kind. Had to put car into park. This time it re-started without any hesitation. Acrid electrical smell was noticed. Brought to dealer and no codes. 7/2020Backing automobile out of garage. About 10 feet into backing procedure car turned off and parking brake engaged. Had to shift back to park, turn off parking brake. Restart car. Took a few attempts to restart. 3/2021Was stopped at same elevated train crossing as prior event. Same issue. 4 more events january 2022. Dealer says not problem found
Feb 10, 2022
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
4 complaints
The contact owns a 2019 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the vehicle made an abnormal squealing noise while accelerating from a stationary start. The contact indicated that the noise was present for approximately three seconds before ceasing. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who replaced an engine valve however, the failure continued. No further information was available. The manufacturer was also notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 13,000.
Mar 15, 2022
GRINDING AND SQUEALING NOISE WHEN ACCELERATING FROM STOP TO GO AS IT LAST FOR UP TO 5 SECONDS EACH TIME. MANY ATLAS'S HAVE THIS ISSUE BASED ON THE FORUMS AND VW STATES THAT IS NORMAL FOR VEHICLE WHICH IS RIDICULOUS TO HEAR. THIS SHOULD BE A RECALL AS THE CONCERN IS THE TORQUE CONVERTER. *TR
May 18, 2020
THIS IS A CONSISTENT ISSUE AND I'M WORRIED POWERTRAIN DAMAGE IS OCCURRING. WHEN ACCELERATING FROM STOPPED OR AT LOW SPEED THERE IS A VERY LOUD SCREENING / GRINDING SOUND COMING FROM THE POWERTRAIN / TRANSMISSION - POSSIBLY THE TORQUE CONVERTER. IT HAPPENS FREQUENTLY AND IS IS VERY NOTICEABLE, USUALLY WHEN THE VEHICLE STARTS TO ACCELERATE OR INCREASES ACCELERATION AT LOW SPEED THEN IT USUALLY GOES AWAY. I DESCRIBED THE TO TWO VW DEALERSHIP SERVICE DEPARTMENTS AND BOTH SAID "THEY HADN'T HEARD OF THAT ONE." I WAS IN FOR OTHER SERVICE AND WAS TOLD THEY COULD NOT REPLICATE THE SOUND, HOWEVER IT SCREECHED WHEN LEAVING THE DEALERSHIP! THE VW ATLAS FORUMS HAVE MANY POSTS ON THIS ISSUE. AND LOTS OF FOLKS LIKE MYSELF ARE NOT GETTING ANY INFORMATION AND ARE CONCERNED ABOUT SAFETY. I DID NOT GET ANY MEANINGFUL HELP FROM VW OR THEIR DEALER SERVICE DEPARTMENTS. I AM ALSO WORRIED THIS IS CAUSING ISSUES OR DAMAGE AND IS NOT BEING ACKNOWLEDGED OR ADDRESSED BY VW AND THEIR AUTHORIZED SERVICE FACILITIES.
Aug 04, 2019
BOUGHT MY ATLAS ON 3/24/19, A FEW DAYS AFTER I GOT THE LOW COOLANT WARNING LIGHT WHILE DRIVING. TOOK IT IN TO THE DEALER AND THEY TOPPED IT OFF AND SAID, "OH THEY COME TO THE DEALER SOMETIMES A LITTLE LOW." NOT SURE WHY THEY DON'T CHECK WHEN PREPPING THE CAR FOR DELIVERY. ON 4/3, LIGHT CAME ON AGAIN WHILE DRIVING. TOOK IT BACK TO THE DEALER 4/4, NO VISIBLE LEAK UNDERNEATH OR BY THE TANK. A POSSIBLE LEAK WAS FOUND BEHIND THE ENGINE NEAR THE FIREWALL, I CAN SEE SOME PINK POOLING ON SOMETHING SILVER (ENGINE OR TRANS WHATEVER IT IS). THEY DETERMINED THAT THE COOLANT HOSE HAS FAILED AND CLAIM TO HAVE NEVER SEEN THAT ISSUE BEFORE. THEY ORDERED THE WRONG PARTS AND COULDN'T FIT. THEY ARE ORDERING MORE PARTS AND IT COULD BE A FEW WEEKS BEFORE I GET IT BACK. I HAVE ALSO ENGAGED VW OF AMERICA. THIS SHOULD NOT HAPPEN ON A NEW CAR YET ALONE THE DEALER TAKE SO LONG TO FIX IT. THE CAR HAS ONLY 400 MILES ON IT. PLEASE INVESTIGATE. THANKS.
Apr 12, 2019
SUSPENSION
3 complaints
Rear coil spring broke under normal driving conditions. This vin # was not part of the original recall. And dealer refuses to help. This is an obvious issue that is the same as the original recall and this vin should be added and covered.
Sep 05, 2025
Rear coil spring failed under normal driving conditions. Previous recall on select 2019 Atlas models however my car was not included in the recall.
Jun 21, 2025
The vehicle was repaired under a recall for the link stabilizer in 2021. The vehicle is now making the same rattling sound that it made prior to being "fixed" by the recall. I would contend that the "fix" that was implemented did NOT correct the original problem.
May 06, 2025
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
3 complaints
The contact owns a 2019 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated that while driving approximately 65 MPH, the Central Warning Light illuminated. The contact arrived at the destination and turned off and restarted the vehicle, and the warning light was no longer illuminated. The contact stated that the same warning light illuminated several weeks later and remained illuminated even after turning off and restarting the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the fuel tank had experienced a minor collapse due to a malfunctioning valve and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 101,000.
Sep 03, 2025
The contact owns a 2019 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 80 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to coast the vehicle off the road. The START/STOP warning light and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to restart the vehicle however, the vehicle failed to accelerate over 30 MPH. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the fuel injectors had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The contact then stated that while driving at approximately 80 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The START/STOP warning light and the check engine warning light were again illuminated. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the fuel injectors failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not yet been repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.
Jun 28, 2023
The contact owns a 2019 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated that after starting the vehicle, the electronic power control and check engine warning lights were illuminated. In addition, there was a fuel odor in the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the high-pressure fuel injector needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the top fuel rail assembly was leaking and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the bottom fuel rail assembly was leaking and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 26,000.
Oct 27, 2021
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
3 complaints
With auto stop/start disengaged, vehicles stalls at slow speed (approaching a stop sign) or while idling at a stop light. displays "start car manually" when this happens. Now error code displays "Error Stop-start" The stalling has happened 5 times this week.
Aug 30, 2025
Vehicle will get a stop/start error and stall at low speeds in traffic or at stop lights/signs. Have to put vehicle in park and manually restart. had the same issue at 20k miles and they replaced the carbon canister. This time they won’t replace it until the error code shows. Truly a safety hazard and I can not put my kids back in this car
Dec 31, 2024
Every display ECM warning light has come on. Yes, it is reproducible. All ADAS failed at once. Normal system such as brakes, steering, electrical & head unit display becomes random.
Dec 26, 2022
AIR BAGS,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
3 complaints
While performing a low speed left hand turn the vehicle’s adaptive cruise control system falsely detected an imminent crash triggering the auto braking system and subsequently malfunctioned to release the vehicle’s side curtain airbags on both the passenger and driver side. The police were called and responded but no police report was prepared as there was determined to be no motor vehicle accident or property damage done (other than to the vehicle itself). The vehicle was taken to a dealer and a diagnostic test was performed, results attached. The manufacturer has verbally responded that they determine the airbag release to be of outside influences and they deny malfunction. They will not provide their response in writing. At the time of the accident there were no warning lights indicating a problem; however, the vehicle diagnostic results indicate that there were brake system issues earlier in the day. The vehicle diagnostic results include multiple system malfunctions that contributed to this malfunction.
Dec 15, 2024
1. The SUV battery will die at any given time. I've replaced it twice already 2. The care will give the all red notification that you're about to get in an accident, the car will then break fast then turn off
Sep 04, 2022
The contact owns a 2019 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the windows would engage independently and roll down. The contact was unable to roll the windows up. The contact stated that the failure occurred increasingly. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the failure was associated with NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V152000 (Air Bags) and the VIN was included. The dealer replaced the doors control module and the front door wiring harness; however, the failure reoccurred. Additionally, the contact stated while driving with or without cruise control activated, the automatic emergency braking (AEB) system would engage inadvertently. The contact stated while driving 75 MPH with the Adaptive Cruise Control activated, the vehicle stopped independently. The contact depressed the accelerator pedal and resumed normal driving. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the failure was associated with NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V152000 (Air Bags); however, the remedy repair failed to fix the vehicle. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 15,000.
Aug 22, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
3 complaints
Manufacturer says they don't have the part to fix the Recall issue
Jun 05, 2024
There is a great danger to the lives of passengers due to a defect in the safety system. So far, every time I call the manufacturer, they say the repair is unavailable. ! How long is the wait? And in the event of an accident or danger to the passengers, who is responsible?
Aug 23, 2023
Without warning the airbag error light has come on
Sep 05, 2022
SEATS
3 complaints
The seat unlocked indicator does not activate showing that the seat is locked and safe to sit in. I informed the dealer in 2019 and filed a complaint when my child’s car seat was in an unlocked seat.
Apr 17, 2024
Captain seat became unlatched when braking quickly, causing the 40lb child sitting in forward facing booster seat to slam head first into back of passenger seat. Seat was then difficult to re-set and lock back into proper position from driver's seat while pulling off highway to a safe location, resulting in child being trapped between captain seat and front passenger seat until vehicle was stopped. Latch appears to be working as expected and has not released unexpectedly otherwise.
Mar 11, 2022
WHEN LOWERING THE THIRD ROW SEATS OF THE ATLAS THE SEATS SLAM DOWN AND FORWARD WITH GREAT FORCE. WHEN PARKED TODAY, I WAS LOWERING THE SEATS AND THE SEAT LOWERED WITH SUCH FORCE THE MY FOOT WAS MASHED AND PINNED IMMEDIATELY A LARGE KNOT APPEARED. I PLAN TO HAVE AN X-RAY OF THE FOOT TOMORROW. MY IMMEDIATE THOUGHT WAS THE DAMAGE THAT COULD HAVE BEEN DONE TO A SMALLER CHILD.
Jul 23, 2020
STRUCTURE
3 complaints
Faulty driver door lock actuator / micro switch. Below freezing drivers door (only) freezes. Only way to open door is from inside. Once door open, door latch does not re-engage resulting in you manually having to hold your door close while driving. This has happened multiple times over the years and this past January occurred 4 mornings in a row. No other doors ever impacted other than drivers door. Dealership aware of the issue but cannot replicate as the car warms up in their shop. VW corporate will not authorize any repair unless a fault code active. Despite calling the dealership while the problem is occurring they can not get repair approved since the car was not present at the time the issue was occurring. It is a severe safety issue having to manually hold your door closed while driving.
Feb 16, 2024
THERE ARE SMALL SPOTS OF RUST ALL AROUND THE CAR, LOWER HALF.
Sep 01, 2020
MY SUV HAS DEVELOPED RUST ALL AROUND. BACK DOOR, SIDE PANELS ON BOTH SIDE, CLOSER TO BOTTOM HALF.
Jul 14, 2020
AIR BAGS,SEATS
3 complaints
This car has an active recall on it since April, 2023 with no known remedy. In the meantime, I'm not supposed to have a passenger sit in the front seat. My lease is ending. I cannot buy the car from the dealer because they won't sell it with an open recall.
Feb 06, 2024
Vehicle has had a call some match 2023. There still is no remedy for repair.
Oct 23, 2023
Complaint: Vehicle owners observed the dashboard airbag warning light flash sporadically on while driving. Passenger seat occupant detection mat, control module, and harness failure. (Failed parts are available) The passenger airbag system failed, jeopardizing the safety of the driver and all the occupants. The parts associated with this failure have been confirmed and inspected by the dealer. Dealer Diagnoses: RO 84066 - 74778: “Airbag light and airbag warning are not currently on. Test drove, could not duplicate concern. Connected battery charger, performed GFF, B1225F1 passive occupant detection system mat shield wire, open circuit (Passive/sporadic) stored in airbag module. Inspected passenger seat harness and occupant detection connectors, no problems found. Recommend replacing detection mat. Detection mat replacement requires replacement of seat harness and occupant detection control module.” Dealer Repair: RO 85716 - 80008: “Replaced occupant detection mat, control module, and seat harness per diagnosis on repair order 84066. Removed passenger front seat. Replaced lower seat cushion, occupant detection mat, control module, and seat harness. Reinstalled seat. Connected battery charger, performed GFF, performed occupant detection basic settings. Cleared codes. Confirmed operation of occupant detection, seat heater, and seat adjustment.”
Feb 01, 2023
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
3 complaints
The contact owns a 2019 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled inadvertently. The contact stated that he shifted into park (P), then pushed the Push to Start button, and the vehicle restarted. Additionally, the contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lunged and jerked. The contact was able to pull to the side of the road. The EPC (Electronic Power Control) warning light, the steering angle sensor warning light, the exhaust warning light, the transmission warning light, and other unknown warning lights was illuminated. The contact also stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed on an incline, the vehicle decelerated to approximately 5 MPH while the accelerator pedal was depressed. Additionally, the infotainment system became inoperable. The dealer was notified of the failure, and an appointment was scheduled for diagnostic testing. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 42,000.
Oct 11, 2023
The contact owns a 2019 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated that while waiting in a drive-thru line with the brake pedal depressed, the vehicle lurched forward crashing into the vehicle in front. The contact stated that she attempted to shift into the park however, the vehicle shifted to reverse while the brake pedal was still depressed and the vehicle crashed into the vehicle in the rear. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that no one was injured. A police report was filed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where no failure cause could be determined as well as the failure was unable to be duplicated. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and the contact was awaiting a callback. The approximate failure was 29,900.
May 18, 2022
WHETHER SUV IS TURNED ON USING REMOTE START OR MANUAL START THE CRUISE CONTROL WILL NOT WORK. READS ERROR: ACC. DEALERSHIP STATES THEY ARE UNABLE TO FIX - HOPEFUL FOR A MANUFACTURED UPDATE TO FIX. ENTERTAINMENT SCREEN FLASHING AND WILL NOT TURN OFF UNTIL 5 ATTEMPTS TO TURN OFF AND ON SUV. DEALERSHIP STATED IT NEEDED AN UPDATE.
Aug 20, 2020
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
3 complaints
WHEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE THE BRAKES WILL AUTOMATICALLY ENGAGE SLAMMING THE CAR INTO A STAND STILL AND POTENTIALLY BEING HIT. THERE ARE SENSORS THAT ACTIVATE THE BRAKES AND THEY GO OFF WHEN THERE IS NOTHING AROUND TO SET THEM OFF. TOOK THE CAR IN. THEY COULD NOT DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. THEY CALLED THE TECH ASSIST LINE AND THEY ACKNOWLEDGE THIS IS AN ISSUE THAT THEY HAVE HEARD OF BUT WILL DO NOTHING ABOUT IT. THEY SAY IF THE BRAKES SLAM ON THEN THE SENSORS ARE WORKING. THIS WAS HAPPENING TO MY CAR DAILY AND I HONESTLY WAS AFRAID TO DRIVE THE CAR. THIS IS A TOTAL SAFETY ISSUE FOR YOUR CAR TO SLAM ON THE BRAKES FOR NO REASON IN AN UNSAFE LOCATION. I HAVE TURNED THE MANEUVER BRAKING OFF BUT I PAID A LOT OF MONEY FOR THAT FEATURE THAT DOES NOT WORK SAFELY. I ALSO GET OTHER RANDOM WARNING LIGHTS THAT GO OFF FOR NO REASON. THEY PLUG IT IN TO LOOK FOR CODES AND NOTHING SHOWS UP SO THEY DO NOT FEEL THERE IS A PROBLEM TO ADDRESS.
Sep 02, 2020
WHILE DRIVING AT LOW SPEEDS, EXITING A PARKING LOT WITH A DOWNWARD SLOPE TOWARDS A STREET, THE CAR'S AUTONOMOUS EMERGENCY BRAKING SYSTEM ACTIVATED, IMMEDIATELY CAUSING THE VEHICLE STOP UNEXPECTEDLY. NO OTHER CAR WAS IN FRONT OF THE VEHICLE, INDICATING THAT THE SYSTEM PERCEIVES THE ROAD AS AN OBSTACLE. THE UNEXPECTED STOP CAUSED ANOTHER VEHICLE BEHIND ME TO NEARLY REAR-END MY VEHICLE. ADDITIONALLY, THEY AEB SYSTEM DID NOT ALLOW ME TO QUICKLY RESTART ACCELERATION, WHICH LEFT ME TEMPORARILY STRANDED FOR A COUPLE SECOND PERPENDICULAR TO THE STREET. *TR
Jun 11, 2020
AUTO BRAKING SYSTEM CAUSES CAR TO BRAKE WHEN EXITING A DRIVEWAY. ALERTS TO THE ROAD AS AN OBSTACLE WHEN GOING DOWN AN INCLINE. THE SYSTEM READS ROAD AS AN OBSTACLE, LIKE A PERSON OR CAR. BRAKING SYSTEM CAUSES CAR TO BRAKE LEAVING DRIVEWAYS. CAR COMES TO A COMPLETE STOP, ENGINE CUTS OFF WITH CAR IN TRAFFIC - ONCOMING TRAFFIC. THIS IS THE BRAKE MANUEVERING SYSTEM - READS ROAD AS A HAZARD CAUSING THE CAR TO AUTOMATICALLY APPLY THE BRAKES. BRAKES ARE APPLIED SUDDENLY AND THE FORCE IS AS IF I AM BEING HIT AT A HIGH SPEED FROM BEHIND. THAT IS WHAT I THOUGHT HAPPENED. TAKES 15-20 SECONDS TO RESTART THE CAR, DURING WHICH TIME I 'M IN TRAFFIC OR HALF IN TRAFFIC AND HALF IN THE DRIVEWAY SUBJECT TO GREAT BODILY HARM FROM OTHER CARS THOSE THAT DO NOT EXPECT ME TO BE STOPPED THERE OR FROM CARS BEHIND ME THIS PLACES ME, MY FAMILY, PASSENGERS AND OTHER DRIVERS AT GREAT RISK OF HARM. THIS HAS HAPPENED NUMEROUS TIMES AND AT NUMEROUS DIFFERENT SPEEDS. EACH TIME I HAVE BEEN LUCKY TO HAVE AVOIDED BEING HIT. I HAVE BEEN TOLD THAT THIS IS HOW THE CAR IS DESIGNED AND THAT THERE IS NO FIX FOR THIS EXCEPT TO TURN OFF THE SYSTEM WHICH ALSO TURNS OFF THE SYSTEM SHOULD A HAZARD APPEAR BEFORE MY VEHICLE. I WAS REQUIRED TO TURN OFF THE SYSTEM MYSELF BECAUSE VW HAS STATED IT IS A LIABILITY FOR THEM TO TURN IT OFF. THE DATE LISTED IS THE FIRST TIME IT HAPPENED BUT IT HAS HAPPENED CLOSE TO A DOZEN TIMES. I HAVE TAKEN THE CAR IN TWICE ONLY TO BE TOLD THAT THERE IS NOTHING THEY CAN DO AS THE SYSTEM IS OPERATING AS DESIGNED. VW HAS TOLD ME THAT THE SYSTEM CANNOT DIFFERENTIATE AND TO ENSURE THE BRAKING DOES NOT GO ON (ALTHOUGH IT WILL STILL BEEP AND ALERT) I MUST EXIT ALL DRIVEWAYS NO FASTER THAN 3 MPH. WHEN EXITING INTO HIGH TRAFFIC AREAS, SUCH AS WHERE I LIVE THIS WILL PLACE ME AT GRAVE DANGER.
Aug 12, 2019
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
2 complaints
There is a yellow triangle on my dash and when the dealer did the troubleshooting they indicated that there is a fault in the system with the transmission shifter and a part is needed to correct the issue. The vehicle is just beyond the warrantee period with 39,000 miles.
Jan 01, 2026
When the car is turned on the Adaptive cruise control is not available, the error code fault is "driver door contact switch", fault code "electronic parking brake" appears, the rear drivers side window rolls down about 6 inches, the car beeps and alerts "the engine is running". When at a complete stop, the beeping and alert with "the engine is running" appears and the parking brake appears to turn back on as well. My car had this issue in Feb 2021 and a part was replaced, but now the problem is back again. This has been confirmed by the dealership and VW customer care that is a very known issue with Atlas. Unfortunately electronical issues are a huge concern because everything is connected. This is the primary car for me and my children. I have huge concerns of safety with my children riding in the car when it has such serious electrical issue.
Mar 03, 2022
SEAT BELTS
2 complaints
Seatbelt sensor will not go off even when seal belt is fastened.
Apr 03, 2025
THE SEAT BELT INDICATOR LIGHT ON THE DASH HAS COME ON 2X WHEN MY SEAT BELT HAS BEEN ON. THE SOUND WILL STOP AFTER SEVERAL MILES BUT THE LIGHT STAYS ON FOR THE WHOLE TRIP. IT HAPPENED THE 1ST TIME IN ROUGHLY SEPTEMBER & THEN NOVEMBER 9TH
Nov 09, 2019
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
2 complaints
I own a 2019 VW Atlas SE, purchased it new. The car has never been in an accident of any sort. While away from town this weekend, on Saturday an "airbag error" popped up on the car when starting the car Saturday morning. Had no idea, texted my VW dealership and brought the car in Monday morning. Note: I had to drive home ~80 miles on Sunday. Apparently the drivers side from seat belt assembly has to be replaced. The front seat belt tension igniter N153 resistance malfunctioned, causing the "Airbag error." First, in hindsight, I presume this means that if I got in an accident while driving home on the highway yesterday, I could have died due to this error. Second, I am a very cautious driver, if there is a way to check on the car, would clearly see that there have been VERY VERY FEW hard braking situations so I'm not sure why this would happen. Very dangerous and should not fail in a 5 year period and cost nearly $750 out of pocket to repair. The code the the seat belt assembly 3CN-857-705-E-RAA, costing $286.15, and another $379.90 for labor.
Oct 28, 2024
I have been waiting on VW to fix their PODS system recall for 6 months now. Our front passenger seat flips between not registering the airbags when a passenger is present, so thinking that there is a passenger seated when the seat is empty. They still tell me there is no fix for the issue and the only thing I can do is not utilize the front passenger seat. This is absolutely OBSURED that it is taking this long to rectify this situation. I have a seat is unsafe and it does not appear there is any urgency on VW's part. 6 months with no fix is entirely too long.
Aug 21, 2023
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaints
I have a start/stop error message on my dash and my car stalls when I am braking sometimes the car turns off completely. my car is available for inspection anytime. It is a safety concern for me and anyone who might be following me as my car will just completely shut off in traffic.
Jul 22, 2024
THE GAS CONSUMPTION IS BELOW WHAT VOLKSWAGEN CLAIMS AND ADVERTISES. OUR CAR AVERAGES 14 MPG INSTEAD OF 19 MPG. ON USER FORUMS, OTHER ATLAS OWNERS HAVE COMPLAINED ABOUT AVERAGING 14 MPG. WHEN WE PUT THE CAR IN REVERSE, IT STARTS TO ROLL FORWARD. THE TRANSMISSION JOLTS WHILE DRIVING. SINCE WE GOT THE CAR, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT HAS BEEN ON FOR AN EVAP LEAK. THE DEALERSHIP "FIXED" IT. HOWEVER, SEVERAL HOURS LATER, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME BACK ON.
Sep 07, 2019
STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2 complaints
The vehicle would start from the remote and upon getting into the vehicle the push start won’t engage with the steering wheel locking and the vehicle being inoperable. The steering will will make locking mechanism sounds and the vehicle won’t start. The vehicle will then not turn on and I am unable to drive. It has sputtered for weeks now yet it turns on and I am able to drive. When first purchasing the vehicle the engine had to be replaced as it backfired and went out the same start stop issue was present then.
May 05, 2024
I BOUGHT MY BRAND NEW ATLAS IN OCTOBER. WE DECIDED ON ATLAS DUE TO THE GREAT SAFETY RATINGS. WITHIN A FEW WEEKS, THE ATLAS WAS IN THE SHOP FOR O2 SENSOR #1. THE CHECK ENGINE CAME ON WHILE DRIVING ON A STATE ROAD. A FEW WEEKS LATER IT WAS IN FOR REPLACEMENT OF STEERING RACK. THE EXTREMELY LOUD NOISES STARTED WHILE DRIVING ON A STATE ROAD. A FEW WEEKS AFTER THAT THE SECOND O2 SENSOR REPLACED. THE CHECK ENGINE CAME ON WHILE DRIVING ON A STATE ROAD. NOW I HAVE AN APPOINTMENT TO BRING IT IN ON MONDAY BECAUSE THE REMOTE START THAT I USE EVERY MORNING STOPPED WORKING TUESDAY. AS OF TODAY, IT HASN'T EVEN HIT 3,000 MILES.
Dec 26, 2019
AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
2 complaints
Electronic Brake keeps activating on its own. Passenger airbag warning light goes off when no one is in the seat.
Jan 31, 2024
My car is showing an airbag error sign off an on and the emergency brake came on during a right turn and nearly caused an accident.
Mar 30, 2022
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
2 complaints
Was driving on interstate 24 between Nashville and Chattanooga, sunday Sept 17th around 1 PM, temp was about 80 F, out of no where, there was a loud boom , like a gunshot, between my wife and I ( Im driving ) I look over at her to see if she was OK, then looked up, I saw the first section of my sun roof glass had shattered into a spider web appearance, then suddenly a chunk of the glass, about 4 x 6 in, departed the roof panel over head while i was trying to slow down and pull over. I was going about 78- 80 mph. Once on the side shoulder, I retracted the sun shade cloth shield, it was fill with numerous shards, one which fell and hit my knee, causing a cut. Numerous shared were within the vehicle and our open top drinks. Since I was not comfortable drive at highway speeds, with potential shards coming into the cabin and impacting those behind, I drove several miles along the shoulder of the road to a gas station. There I bought gloves and removed what was left of the remaining panel and used duct tape to contain any remain glass. Im currently in contact with my VW dealer as to the status of its repair
Sep 18, 2023
Windows- The drivers side window and back passenger windows rolled down while I was driving down the highway. I was going approximately 75MPH at the time. This happened on 2 separate occasions. My vehicle has braked extremely hard on numerous occasions. Two of those times I was traveling on Interstate 40 going at approx 65MPH. I have had taken my vehicle in for a "software update" on my cruise control and on my air bags. The unlock feature doesn't always work. This vehicle seems to have a lot of electrical issues.
Mar 21, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER
2 complaints
For 12 months, the windshield wipers, while in the off position, will turn on by themselves. Typically occurs when on the freeway in clear, sunny conditions, and occur as a result of hitting bumps in the roadway while traveling at speeds between 60 and 80 mph. They may go off once or multiple times over the course of a drive. Dealership was asked last summer and again this July to look into the issue with no resolution; was advised they could not replicate the error, they did not see any fault codes associated with the wipers and all electrical wires were in good condition with no damage. Being distracted by my wipers randomly going off takes my attention away from the road; I turn the wipers on and/or spray windshield cleaner to try and “clear” the error - neither of these solutions actually work. With no help from Pignataro VW, we’ll be seeking help from an independent VW mechanic. No warning lamps or other symptoms indicated an issue. Other than the dealership, no other individuals have inspected the car. The car is available for inspection though if needed.
Aug 30, 2023
The Panoramic sunroof continues to leak water. This is a safety risk by water obstructing the driver's vision. Also, the water mixing with electrical wires in the A frame, driver-side electronics, and leaking on and through the center dash area is a major concern. The vehicle has been serviced twice within the same month and has not been fixed.
Jan 13, 2022
BACK OVER PREVENTION
2 complaints
I have owned my Atlas for seven months. During this time my 2019 VW Atlas SEL will slam on the brakes without any need to. This has happened five times. There is not an object or person around, but the brakes engage and all the sensors start beeping. I will need to put my car in park and restart my engine to drive again. I consider myself lucky that the incidents have happened in parking lots or while entering the roadway with no other cars have around. One month ago my car was taken in to an auto body shop for a repair due to a back bumper collision. The repair seems to have made the problem worse since these braking incidents have happened since the collision/repair. The auto body shop says the manufacturer "codes" are reading as "O" so the car is clear and ready to drive, but the braking/sensor system is still not working properly. I hope VW will reevaluate the safety of this sensor/braking system.
Jul 27, 2023
The rear camera becomes unavailable intermittently when backing up. This has only happened occasionally and recently (in the past few months) and may be related to the infotainment system being given priority on the display and may be affected by weather (rainy).
May 18, 2023
BACK OVER PREVENTION,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
2 complaints
MULTIPLE incidents. Automatic Emergency Breaking - Vehicle suddenly stops in the middle of the road while driving, when pulling out onto roads and when reversing, when there are no oncoming vehicles, objects or humans. Two recent incidences where I was almost in a collision, the automatic emergency breaking did not activate at all. Parking sensors - the sensors come on frequently when there are no objects in front of the vehicle. They intermittently stay on. The vehicle has been inspected multiple times for these issues by the Volkswagon Dealer. Problems began very soon after purchase. The dealer has not been able to reproduce the problem so they have continuously sent me home with the malfunctioning vehicle. They did replace on sensor and have done multiple updates over the years, but the issue continues. Safety is put at risk because the car suddenly stops in the middle of the road or in intersections. This could cause a t-bone or being rear ended. This most recently happened to my new driver (daughter) and it scared her and put her in the face of oncoming traffic because the stop occurred and before she could get going again, cars were coming. If it happened on the freeway it could be deadly. Same daughter, a few minutes after the previously described incident, almost hit a fence. We stopped within about 2 to 3 inches of it and the automatic/emergency breaking system did not activate at all. These two are just the most recent incidents. These have been occurring since I purchased the vehicle.
Jul 24, 2023
ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS OUR 2019 VW ATLAS SEL PREMIUM HAS ENGAGED THE BRAKES EVEN WHEN THERE ARE NO OBSTACLES TO AVOID CREATING A DANGEROUS, SCARY AND UNPREDICTABLE SENECIO FOR OUR FAMILY AND OTHER DRIVERS AROUND US. THE PROBLEMS WITH THE AUTOMATED BRAKING HAVE BEEN ATTRIBUTED BY SERVICE ADVISORS AS SOFTWARE ISSUES WITH 'FRONT ASSIST, MANEUVER BRAKING, AND/OR REMOTE START".
Dec 01, 2020
VISIBILITY
2 complaints
The contact owns a 2019 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated that while driving approximately 50 MPH, the sunroof exploded. The contact stated that there was no warning or impact prior to the failure. The contact then closed the sunroof shade and veered to the side of the road. The contact sustained injuries to both legs but did not seek medical attention. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 34,480.
Mar 15, 2023
The contact owns a 2019 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated while driving 10 MPH, the sunroof glass detached from the sunroof frame. the contact pulled over to the side roadway before driving to the residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 25,000.
Apr 25, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
2 complaints
My vehicle has completely just shut down atleast five times since owing it. I have a special needs son who is in the vehicle with me all the time. The vehicle engine will shut down with no warning and not restart. Traffic behind me not aware that my vehicle has shut down after the light has turned green. It has shut down at various times in the middle of traffic. I’m fearful for myself and child that an accident is just a matter of time. I read complaints from others who state they have experienced the same problem. I’m concerned for the SAFETY of others and me and my son. No warning is given before it just dies. I don’t feel safe in this vehicle. This vehicle needs to be FIXED immediately. My vehicle has approximately 38,000 miles on it currently. This occurred either when I have stopped completely at a light, or when trying to start up the vehicle. Respectfully, VAP
Feb 18, 2023
MY BATTERY DIED WHILE DRIVING AND I HAD NO CONTROL OF BRAKES OR WHEEL
Mar 22, 2019
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,BACK OVER PREVENTION
2 complaints
Atlas displays the same problems that others have also complained about. The vehicle will abruptly stop and engage the parking brake and set off all kinds of warning sensors. The driver's side door harness is the alleged problem and yet they have no fix. My VIN number is not associated with the recall but my Atlas displays the same problems as the recalled ones.
Dec 10, 2022
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2019 VOLKSWAGEN ATLAS. WHILE DRIVING UP AN INCLINED ROAD AND MAKING A LEFT TURN, THE COLLISION AVOIDANCE SYSTEM BEEPED WHILE ERRONEOUSLY SENSING SOMETHING WAS AHEAD OF THE VEHICLE. ALSO, WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN REVERSE, THE BACK-UP CAMERA DID NOT IMMEDIATELY DISPLAY THE PERSON WALKING BEHIND THE VEHICLE. THE PERSON WAS NOT DISPLAYED ON THE CAMERA UNTIL THEY WERE IN THE MIDDLE OF THE SCREEN. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURES WAS NOT DETERMINED. NORM REEVES VOLKSWAGEN (20 AUTO CENTER DR, IRVIN, CA) WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE OPERATED NORMALLY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS ALSO CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 800.
Aug 22, 2019
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
2 complaints
I own a 2019 vw atlas and I had called the dealership about low coolant level light that had came on and you know what I was told it’s common in the atlas’s and that they just use coolant and I’m thinking to my self that cars don’t just use coolant and I’m finding out more and more a lot of people are having this issue the funny thing is that the had told me to just come on down and they will top it off with coolant
Nov 02, 2022
ENGINE LIGHT IS ON... INTERIOR SMELLS LIKE GAS AND GAS GAGE IS SHOWING LOW LEVEL VERY FAST.
Sep 06, 2019
WHEELS
2 complaints
My car just hit 30,000 miles. The light for loss of tire pressure on my left rear tire goes on. I go to the gas station to put air in the tire, and touch the tread with my fingers. THE INSIDE INCH OF TREAD/RUBBER ON BOTH REAR TIRES IS COMPLETELY WORN DOWN --- down to the metal. Seems like a serious alignment issue to me on this vehicle. Service and tire rotations regularly performed at the VW dealership in accordance with manufacturer recommendations.
Oct 27, 2022
THE CAR VIBRATES WHEN DRIVING 65 MPH OR HIGHER. THE DEALERSHIP ACKNOWLEDGED THE VIBRATION AND REPLACED THE TIRES 3 TIMES BUT THE CAR IS STILL VIBRATING. THE CORPORATE OFFICES OF VW HAVE BEEN CONTACTED BUT THEY WERE NO HELP. *TR
Jun 22, 2020
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
2 complaints
Error Airbag keeps coming on and dealership cant find issue and cant replicate problem but it happens every time we get in car and are driving. This is very dangerous if we get in a accident and airbags dont deploy. Also There has been some weird electrical issues with vehicle that cause lights to flicker and turn on and off inside car dash. Dealership cant figure it out due to not replicating issue. Last issue is with brakes. Something in the electrical system is causing brakes to fully engage slamming us into the dash board and windshield. Has happened 3 times since owing vehicle. Dealership again said they cant replicate issue. This is getting to be the worse car we have purchased. First time owning a Volkswagen and probably the last time.
Sep 27, 2022
My 2019 Atlas is showing many of the same symptoms of the current Atlas recall, but it isn’t listed on the site. My airbag light is flashing, the adaptive cruise control states that it isn’t available, and many other electrical systems have been failing. The problem began today.
May 04, 2022
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
2 complaints
I bought the car new 2 years ago and the issues began around 11k miles and have continued every several months to it is current 45k mileage. On 4 occasions my car has powered down while driving speeds approximately 60mph and began shaking with the EPC and check engine light becoming illuminated. Of those occasions, 3 of which I was able to get the car to the side of the road and restart it to get to a servicer. 1 of those times I had to have to towed. On the fifth occasion the car began shaking and worsened with accelaration with both the check engine and epc light on. The dealer has only changed a coil to date. Other occasions they repaired recalls in hopes of stopping. Several times I have been told it was a misfire and they could not pinpoint the issue.
Apr 25, 2022
The vehicle has had issues with the torque converter, head, head gasket, electrical system, gas cap door, seat belt. VW has not been able to fix the issues
Mar 19, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
2 complaints
Vehicle is completely shutting down while in drive. Occurring during acceleration and deceleration. No warning given before car shuts down. Just immediately stops in road. I had to restart car and avoid traffic. Dealership has been notified. Service department has stated there is a solution but no availability of parts. Suggested appointment for service to inspect vehicle and to put order in for recall part. Will inspect car but says the vehicle issues seem related to the recall. Unable to provide loaner cars and unable to provide date that part will be available. Service department does not have date of when part will be available, anticipates one to two months. Dealership has been notified. Service department has stated that car should be safe to drive even with no remedy for recall at this time. Owner told its kind of just a faith thing right now and it should be okay to drive. False warning sensors illuminating when vehicle is being driven. Forward collision warning lighting up while driving but no vehicles or objects in front of vehicle. Dealership has been notified. Service department indicates it may be related to the recall. Driver side window hesitating to roll up and down. Window has moved without the driver pushing window button. Intermittent parking break sensors go off and emergency break automatically stops car. Message appearing that there is rear traffic. Occurs when no other vehicle, persons, and or objects are in the vehicle's rear area. When reversing I physically am using the vehicles mirrors and my own vision before making any attempt to reverse. This false alarm and sudden emergency break initiated by the car causes a major safety concern for the driver , passenger, as well as the safety of everyone in the area of the vehicle. Warning for Airbag error appears randomly and then dissapears. This is a major saftely concern for the driver and family. First recall for Front Stabilizer Coupling Rod completed 12/22/2021.
Mar 25, 2022
THE VEHICLE SHUTS DOWN WHILE DRIVING. IT HAS HAPPEN 3 TIMES. AUTO START/STOP IS DISENGAGED EACH TIME. ONE INCIDENT (6/19/20) WHILE DRIVING 50MPH, HAD TO COAST INTO A PARKING LOT & RESTART THE ENGINE. ANOTHER (8/19/20) WHEN SLOWING DOWN TO GO INTO OUR DRIVEWAY. TOOK THE CAR TO THE DEALER AFTER EACH OF THESE INCIDENTS. THEY COULD NOT DIAGNOSE THE ISSUE. DEALER HAS CONTACTED VW TECH & ENGINEERING. WE HAVE STARTED FILE WITH VW CUSTOMER CARE. WE WERE INSTRUCTED BY VW THAT THE NEXT TIME IT HAPPENS, LEAVE THE CAR WHERE IT STOPS & TO CALL CUSTOMER CARE FOR A TOW. WE ALSO HAVE HAD AN ISSUE WITH ONE KEY NOT BEING RECOGNIZED BY THE CAR ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. TODAY, THE INSTRUMENT DISPLAY & THE RADIO SHUT DOWN WHILE IDLING AT CVS (AUTO START/STOP WAS OFF).
Sep 12, 2020
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
2 complaints
Last Saturday, several warning lights appeared on the dashboard, including "ACC Not Available", "Error: Driver Door Contact Switch", and "Fault: Electronic Parking Brake". While in traffic I slowed to around 15 mph and the emergency brake activated, stopping the car abruptly. This same scenario of slowing and the emergency brake activating happened twice more while driving home. Vehicle was taken to the dealership who advised we were the 16th Atlas that has experienced these problems. We were told it would be 3-4 months before the parts to fix the vehicle were available.
Mar 09, 2022
WHILE DRIVING 35MPH,NO ONE IN EITHER DIRECTION, FLAT STREET SURFACE,BRAKING SYSTEM WENT ON WITH THE ALERT ON DASH AND NOISE.IT HAS HAPPENED 4 TIMES WHERE THE CARS BRAKING SYSTEM TURNS ON, BRAKES WHILE ACCELERATING, AND THEN IT TAKES SEVERAL SECONDS BEFORE YOU CAN MOVE FROM THE INTERSECTION, HOPING NOT TO HAVE A COLLISION FROM CAR THAT IS BEHIND.TOOK TO THE DEALERS SEVERAL TIMES AND THEY CANNOT VERIFY. THE ENGINE LIGHT WAS ON FOR SEVERAL WEEKS.ONE DEALER SAID THEY CANNOT SEE ME FOR ANOTHER 2 WEEKS. CALLED VW HEADQUARTERS TO GET ME IN SOONER. THE TRIANGLE LIGHT WITH EXCLAMATION POINT WAS ALSO ON. THE KEY LIGHT WAS ON AS WELL WHILE MY CAR WAS RUNNING, STATING THE KEYS WERE NOT IN THE CAR. WHEN I WENT TO ACCELERATE, CAR TURNED OFF. SUNROOF WAS LEAKING--HAVE A VIDEO REMOTE KEYS DO NOT WORK ALL THE TIME. START UP HAS ISSUES, DOORS LOCK WHEN I AM CLOSE TO THE CAR FOR NO REASON, DOORS DO NOT UNLOCK FROM THE INSIDE UNTIL I TURN ON THE CAR, THE REAR DOOR DOES NOT OPEN AT TIMES- HAVE A VIDEO, IF KEYS ARE IN POCKET, DOORS DO NOT UNLOCK EASILY(WAS TOLD I HAVE TO HOLD THE HANDLE CORRECTLY OR IT WILL NOT OPEN) THE SIDE ALERT SYSTEM GOES OFF ALL THE TIME WHEN NOTHING IS THERE. FRONT WINDOWS WOULD NOT GO DOWN -ON RECEIPT THEY STATED THEY FOUND WINDOWS WERE FINE. ADVISOR TOLD ME THAT THE BUTTON ON THE DOOR WAS BURNED OUT, BUT THEY DID NOT WRITE THAT IN THE REPORT. STEERING ISSUES WHERE THE CAR WAS MOVING RIGHT TO LEFT AND VERY LOOSE. *TR
Jun 23, 2020
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
2 complaints
On 5 Dec 20212, at approximately 1:30 while driving to the Fairfield Inn & Suites, 1707 69th Street, North Bergen, New Jersey 07047, we turned onto 69th street but missed the right turn to the hotel, so I went up the hill and made a U-turn back and the accelerator got stuck somehow and the brake pedal did not work. We were going down the hill extremely fast pumping the brakes with no luck. Rather than hit the car waiting for the Red Light I turned my car toward a power pole, and crashed extremely hard. My wife and I were both transported by ambulance to the Hackensack University Medical Center. My wife has to have spinal neck repair surgery, is still in the hospital with no sensation in her arms & fingers and is being sent to Kessler Institute of Rehabilitation for 5 weeks of Rehabilitation, with a prognosis of up to two years to fully recover. I suffered whiplash, bruising, tissue damage and in severe pain in my neck, back and stomach. The vehicle was towed and is in the Tominos Towing lot at 5419 Tonnelle Ave. Telephone 201-223-0235, and the accident police report is at the police dept. at 4233 Kennedy Blvd. Case#21-116842.
Dec 10, 2021
AUTOMATIC BRAKING SYSTEM DEPLOYS WITHOUT CAUSE. SITUATION: DRIVING ON INTERSTATE, NO CARS WITHIN A HALF MILE, GOING 75 WITH ACC AND BREAKS AUTOMATICALLY SLAMMED ON WITH A COLLISION WARNING. SENSOR AND CAR WERE CLEAN, NO CARS OR POSSIBLE IMPACTS. THIS HAS HAPPENED 3-4 TIMES. ADDITIONAL SITUATIONS: ACC TURNS OFF BOTH ON INTERSTATE AND ON LONG HIGHWAY BRIDGE. SITUATIONS WERE DIFFERENT, BOTH DAY AND NIGHT TIME/ WITH OTHER CARS AND WITHOUT. ALL SITUATIONS HAD NO POSSIBLE CHANCE OF IMPACT. ACC WILL TURN OFF WHILE CAR IS GOING IN 50-70 MPH RANGE AND SUDDENLY BREAK, IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD, WITHOUT ANY WARNING. DEALERSHIP RESPONDED "NOTHING IS PERFECT" THIS HAS NOW HAPPENED ROUGHLY 7 TIMES, WITH NO ADVICE FROM THE DEALER OTHER THAN TO "SEE IF I CAN JUST TURN THE ASSISTANCE SYSTEMS OFF." THEY WERE NOT ABLE TO SEE MY CAR IMMEDIATELY WHEN I TOOK IT IN AFTER THE BRAKING INCIDENT TODAY AND HAVE SCHEDULED ME FOR A LATER DATE.
Mar 09, 2020
POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES
2 complaints
INTERMITTENTLY, WHEN I GOT TO APPLY THE BRAKES MOVING FORWARD OR TURNING, THE VEHICLE SOUNDS LIKE GRINDING OR RUBBING IN THE FRONT AXLE
May 12, 2021
WHILE EXITING PARKING LOTS AT LOW SPEEDS, THE BRAKING SYSTEM SLAMMED ON THE BRAKES BRINGING MY CAR TO A COMPLETE STOP. ONE EXIT HAD SOMEWHAT OF A STEEP SLOPE , THE OTHER ONE WAS ALMOST FLAT. THANKFULLY NO ONE WAS BEHIND ME OR I COULD HAVE EASILY BEEN REAR ENDED SINCE NOTHING WAS AROUND ME AND NOTHING ELSE COULD HAVE CAUSED THE BRAKES TO SLAM ON. CAR IS ALSO VERY JERKY WHILE ACCELERATING OR BRAKING. JERKS THROUGH THE GEARS AND THEN JERKS WHILE BRAKING. THIS HAPPENS AT LOW SPEEDS, MOST PREVALENT IN NEIGHBORHOODS GOING OVER BUMPS OR SLOWING FOR STOP SIGNS.TOOK MY CAR IN TO GET LOOKED AT, THEY PREFORMED A "SOFTWARE UPDATE" AND SAID IT WOULD MOST LIKELY STOP THE JERKING. WHEN I WAS LEAVING, I WAS GIVEN A "VEHICLE EMISSION RECALL-PROOF OF CORRECTION-CA" FORM JUST IN CASE THE DMV ASKED ME FOR THIS FORM. THE "SOFTWARE" UPDATE SEEMED TO SOMEWHAT FIX THE PROBLEM BUT NOT ALL THE WAY. MY CAR EITHER DRIVES SUPER JERKY OR SMOOTH, NO IN BETWEEN. IN MY OPINION, FOR A $40, 000 CAR, THIS IS RIDICULOUS. HAVEN'T EVEN MADE A PAYMENT ON IT AND IM NOT LOOKING FORWARD TO IT (UNLESS IT WAS ACTUALLY DRIVING CORRECTLY).
Jul 29, 2020
STEERING,SUSPENSION,WHEELS
2 complaints
VEHICLE HAS 11K MILES. TOOK THE VEHICLE IN TO REPAIR A TIRE WITH A NAIL. MY ALIGNMENT WAS OFF (I THOUGHT I WAS FEELING A SHAKE ANYWAY). HAD THE ALIGNMENT FIXED BUT A WEEK LATER (FIRST TIME ON THE HIGHWAY) MY VEHICLE IS SHAKING FAR TOO MUCH TO BE THE ROAD. ALL TIRES ARE IN GOOD SHAPE AS THEY WERE CHECKED DURING THE ALIGNMENT. SHAKING DOES NOT OCCUR WHILE DRIVING UNDER 45 MPH.
Jan 12, 2021
PURCHASED VEHICLE 4/18/2020. SUV WAS SHAKING AND TOLD THE SELLER. THEY STATED THEY WOULD FIX WHEN THEY DID THE STICKER AND REGISTRATION. ATTEMPTED TO FIX THE SHAKING BY ROAD FORCE BALANCE. WAS TOLD WAS A FLAT SPOT SO THEY REPLACED RIMS AND TIRES WITH A SET OFF ANOTHER TRUCK. STILL SHOOK AND WAS PULLING TO RIGHT. THEY ATTEMPTED FIXING THE TIRES AND DID ROAD TEST BALANCING ON 4 SEPARATE OCCASIONS. THE TRUCK STILL SHAKES EXCESSIVELY AND PULLS TO THE RIGHT. I CONTACTED CORPORATE AND THE DEALER. THEY STATED THAT THEY DID WHAT THEY COULD AND NO LONGER WISH TO DO ANYTHING ELSE. IT IS A SAFETY CONCERN AS MY WIFE AND TWIN 16 MONTH OLD GIRLS WILL BE IN THE SUV. WE PURCHASED IT BRAND NEW AND HAS BEEN SHAKING SINCE THEN. IT SHAKES AT 40-60 MILES AN HOUR. SO HIGHWAY SPEEDS. IT IS NOT SUITABLE TO BE DRIVEN ON HIGHWAYS AT THOSE SPEEDS. *TR
Jun 02, 2020
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2 complaints
PANORAMIC SUNROOF POPPED AND SHATTERED WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY. NO EVIDENCE OF ANY ROCKS OR DEBRIS HITTING IT PRIOR TO IT EXPLODING. GLASS SHOWED OUTWARD DEPRESSION, NOT INWARD, AFTER CRACKING.
Feb 05, 2020
I PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE 5 MONTHS AGO AND IT HAS LESS THAN 6K MILES ON IT. YESTERDAY, WHILE DRIVING IN THE RAIN, I NOTICED THE STORAGE NOOK UNDER THE RADIO COMPARTMENT WAS WET. I LOOKED UP AND SAW WATER DRIPPING FROM THE CEILING ON PASSENGER SIDE CONSOLE. I DID TAKE VIDEO OF DRIPPING. IT DROPPED WATER WHILE MOVING AND AT A COMPLETE STOP, SO LONG AS IT WAS RAINING. I'VE LOOKED ONLINE AND SEE THIS IS A VERY COMMON COMPLAINT ON FORUMS. I BROUGHT MY VEHICLE TO VW DEALER TODAY AT 8AM AND IT IS STILL THERE AT 3:32 AM. I CALLED TO GET A STATUS AND THE RETURN CALL SAID THAT I NEED A NEW DRAINHOSE AND THAT IT NEEDS TO BE ORDERED. THEY SAID IT WILL BE IN 2 DAYS AND THEY WILL CALL TO SCHEDULE REPAIR. I ASKED WHAT HAPPENS IF SUBSEQUENT DAMAGE IS CAUSED BY THIS ISSUE AND WAS TOLD "WE USUALLY JUST HAVE TO REPLACE CARPET". THIS TELLS ME THAT THEY'RE WELL AWARE OF THIS DEFECT. THIS DEALERSHIP DOES NOT GIVE LOANER VEHICLES. I'M NERVOUS AFTER READING NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS AND READING OF PEOPLE WHO'VE HAD THEIR VEHICLE IN THE SHOP REPEATEDLY FOR THIS PROBLEM. I'M FILING A COMPLAINT ON MY FIRST GO ROUND BECAUSE OF ALL I'VE READ AND THE RESPONSE I GOT FROM THE DEALERSHIP.
Dec 02, 2019
SEAT BELTS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
The second row captains chair seat belt latch on the passenger side does not latch fully. It latches and can be pulled out by hand. If a wreck were to happen, the passenger would not be truly restrained causing bodily harm or death. The problem has been reproduced at a service center. It has not been inspected by police, insurance or representative. No warning lights or messages for the seat belt. The car will randomly stall while rpms are low, liking making a turn, pulling into a parking spot or stopped at a traffic light (while auto start/stop is turned off). It makes me put the vehicle in park and restart the engine. This can cause wrecks that could cause bodily harm or injury. It has been reviewed by a auto mechanic. The engine light and evap system light will randomly come on and go off.
Nov 12, 2025
POWER TRAIN,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
I’ve consistently had a coolant leak with my engine water pump. Constantly have to refill the coolant. The reason I’m making this complaint is because yesterday October 1, 2025 I filled up my coolant and I drove a few miles to the grocery store and my coolant was empty and I got a coolant, low warning light and the coolant pump was completely empty. This is becoming very expensive and should not happen on a certified preowned vehicle with only 75,000 miles.
Oct 02, 2025
STEERING,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
●Vehicle tries to pull me into a completely different lanes I have no intentions of trying to go into while on the highway ●Vehicle completely shut off WHILE DRIVING. Electrical panel flashed with all the lights then said to start Vehicle manually. ●Vehicle's gas saving feature when stopped, works intermittently and RANDOMLY, even with same applied brake pressure.
Jul 03, 2025
STEERING,SUSPENSION
1 complaint
I am filing this complaint due to a serious and unresolved safety issue with the steering system of my 2019 Volkswagen Atlas SEL 4Motion R-Line. The vehicle was diagnosed with a failed steering rack, which presents a significant safety hazard due to impaired steering response and potential loss of control. The part needed for the repair has been on national backorder for over a month, with no estimated time of availability. This delay has left me without a safe, operable vehicle and has created a major hardship for my family. I contacted Volkswagen Customer CARE to request assistance and escalation. Unfortunately, they were unable or unwilling to escalate the issue to a Regional Case Manager, and offered no support, solutions, or alternatives to address the safety or mobility concerns caused by this prolonged delay. In contrast, the dealership—Volkswagen of South Mississippi—has been extremely helpful and professional throughout the process. They confirmed the diagnosis and are ready to perform the repair, but are completely dependent on Volkswagen to supply the required part. Through online research and owner forums, I’ve learned that steering rack failures and backorder delays are common with the 2019 Atlas, which indicates this could be part of a larger systemic issue affecting many owners. I am concerned that this situation poses an ongoing public safety risk, particularly if drivers experience steering loss unexpectedly. I respectfully urge NHTSA to investigate this matter and determine whether it warrants a broader safety recall or regulatory action. The current lack of support from Volkswagen, combined with the unavailability of critical steering components, is unacceptable and may leave affected drivers at serious risk.
May 22, 2025
AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
Vehicles stalls randomly all the times ,moving or not . Almost got rear ended several times . Spent 3k at Vw in Brandon for brakes that were only 70k miles on them . But they still squeal . Can’t fuel with gas as the pressure just pushes the fuel back at me . Seems worse in warmer weather . Vw said they would not touch the charcoal canister as that what I’ve deemed is the issue.
Apr 23, 2025
POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
Driving at constant speed on highway, vehicle either loses acceleration and / or applies brake for short moment. Tapping the accelerator appears allow the vehicle to resume to initial intended speed. Automatic braking, not intended by the driver is a safety risk for both this and adjacent drivers. The problem has been reproduced by a dealer service center. No other agencies have inspected the vehicle's problem. No warning lamps, messages or other symptoms evident. Dealer has had the vehicle to two weeks and has not provided a viable resolution.
Apr 07, 2025
STEERING,SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
With the past year, have had 2 dangerous safety issues pop up. 1. April 2024, seat belt malfunctioned causing an error message. From what the VW dealer told me, the seat belt would not lock, therefore requiring a replacement of the entire assembly Had to drive home several hours with this error message. Should a 5 year old car have such issues? 2. January 2025, steering began to feel very sloppy. Was informed Steering rack assembly had excessive play inside the steering gear. Presume losing steering at highway speeds would be quite dangerous. Replacing seat belt assembly cost $1261.25, the steering rack assembly replacement will cost $1988.75. Both should be recall items and covered by VW.
Jan 20, 2025
Chest Clip, Buckle, Harness
1 complaint
The magnetic chest clip does not stay clipped/locked. Can easily undo the chest clip without use of the buttons to release it. If car seat was in a crash, child may not be adequately restrained. Car seat has not been inspected by anyone other than parents, mother is a CPST though. Chicco is currently mailing out a replacement.
Jan 06, 2025
STRUCTURE,ENGINE
1 complaint
I had just completed filling my car with gas and was still parked at the gas pump. The gas cap had been replaced and I got back into the car and started it. I thought that the engine had fully started, but when I shifted into drive, the engine sputtered a little. I put it back in park, and attempted to start the car again. There was a huge bang under the hood and a puff of smoke. Upon opening the hood, the cover over the intake manifold had exploded into pieces. There was enough force that one of the shards of plastic dented the hood from the underside. Luckily nothing caught fire, but I fear that it could have. I had the car towed to a repair shop, and they confirmed that at minimum, the intake manifold needs replacing, but really couldn't guess as to the cause of the failure at this point. They are the only people who have had an official look at the vehicle. It would be available for inspection by someone else. My engine had been running fine with no warning signs in sound or performance. I am someone who keeps up with regular car maintenance. I did have a check engine light on back in late spring that indicated (I'm looking around to see if I still have the print out) a minor issue with the gas cap seal, but the light cleared itself before my appointment at the dealership to have them investigate it and the technician told me that in the absence of other issues (noise or performance) it should be fine to drive. I read a few other accounts online of owners having the same issue with their VW vehicles.
Nov 11, 2024
SEAT BELTS,WHEELS,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint
The rear driver side seat belt does not stay in place when the seat is lowered, therefore, leaving this seat without a seatbelt. The adaptive cruise control sometimes works and sometimes does not work. There is no specific reason for this. It works during the snow and does not work during the sunshine. When making a hard right or left turn, there is a grinding noise underneath, I am guessing it has something to do withthe wheels or what the wheels are attached to... I have brought each of these items up to the dealership service department and they look at me like I am crazy stating this is the way volkswagon works. I do not believe this is so.
Oct 11, 2024
ENGINE,LANE DEPARTURE
1 complaint
Vehicle has auto stop/start. Vehicle shuts down when at a stop sign and does not start .Deactivating the stop/ start function does not help.
Oct 05, 2024
LANE DEPARTURE,BACK OVER PREVENTION
1 complaint
The blind spot monitor and rear traffic alert have now turned themselves off 3 times. Each time it will not turn back on by selecting in menu. All 3 incidents have required a trip to the dealer to fix. This is dangerous because when you start the car, there is no warning that they are not on.
Apr 18, 2024
POWER TRAIN,AIR BAGS
1 complaint
The transmission at low speeds, while accelerating makes a grinding noise
Jan 06, 2024
SERVICE BRAKES,BACK OVER PREVENTION,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint
I was driving on the freeway on 10/13/2023, it was raining and I was startled by an alarm and a flashing warning on my dash stating brake booster failure, the abs light went on and I was concerned because I recently had by brakes done at the Volkswagen dealership in Brooklyn Center Minnesota on 10/4/2023. I was afraid of not being able to brake and I pulled over and put my car in park and I received a park assist failure warning on my dash as well as the park assist light turned on by the shifter. I shut my car off and called Volkswagen in Brooklyn Center. I was assured that my brakes wouldn’t stop working and the service tech was unaware why the red light near my shifter for the park assist would turn on by itself. The dealership was about to close and I was told that I could maybe be squeezed in on that following Monday and eventually was scheduled. I restarted my car and received another error for the electronic stabilization control. I called back the dealership and was able to catch the tech before he left and I was concerned about driving it. I was told, you are basically driving a 1985 Volkswagen, be aware you don’t have the safety features. My car was reviewed on 10/24/2023, I was provided with a rental car and was told the problem was the abs electronic braking module that this is known to go out at my mileage. I do see that others have had this issue and there was a recall, but I was told my VIN number was not included. Prior to this I did report driving in a mall parking lot and I had an alarm go off for a collision warning and my car suddenly braked on it’s own and no vehicle was around me. I have also been in slow traffic and periodically had the collision warning go off and the vehicle was a good distance in front of me. I was told that that can happen with the sensors. I’ve also been driving in the winter and I’ve gotten the warning look that it’s safe to move alarm alot when I’m stopped in traffic, I’m guessing that it’s due to ice near the sensor.
Oct 26, 2023
ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint
My '19' Atlas had given me several issues after 2 years. The engine light has illuminated several times. Im not sure if is just being reset or if the problem is actually being fixed. At any rate, I have continuously complained about smelling coolant since Feb 21. Only to bring vehicle in, have the coolant topped off, and hear it's nothing's wrong. It has been checked and inspected and yet there has been no headway of the originating of the issue. The dealer has changed the canister & head gasket a few times (even speculated water pump issues). It was said the problem had been fixed. That statement couldn't be more INACCURATE a few weeks ago I was told I needed a new head/spark plugs and the block was warp and I would not be able to drive it until it was repaired (a $5k job). My vehicle is 4 years old it is well kept and is always in for scheduled/routine maintenance. I was told this is a known issue. Had I been told this before buying, I would of reconsidered my purchase. Why isn't this a manufacturers recall? Or the buyer isn't informed. The manufacturer should be mandated to use reliable materials for this vehicle. For a vehicle to fail at 70k is insane. I am utterly disgusted. In addition, the collision display randomly comes on while driving and vehicle often halts unexpectedly. Unsafe if driving on the road with other vehicles. I have brought it to the dealers attention several times unsure if it has been annotated but I am always told bring it back if it does it again. And no solution has been given. This has been a problem well over a year and a half. AGAIN this should be a recall issue. I love this vehicle and want to keep it but these experiences will definitely detour me from future purchases of the VW brand.
Oct 26, 2023
AIR BAGS,ENGINE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2019 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated the vehicle had stalled 5 times while driving. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer, but the dealer was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired and continued to experience the failure. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The contact also received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V215000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The failure mileage was approximately 29,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Aug 14, 2023
SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,LANE DEPARTURE
1 complaint
When starting the vehicle, the warning system will flash and display several errors, mainly "parking brake failure" and the light on the parking brake control will flash.Parking brake will disengage after several attempts and warning will go away. Problem started about 1 month ago and is becoming more persistant.
Jun 27, 2023
AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
The passenger side airbag has been switched off due to a fault in something. So if I have a passenger in my front passenger side and am in an accident, the airbag will not deploy which could cause a multitude of safety problems and possibly cause a fatality. I took my car in 6/15/23 to the dealership and they did confirm that my car was effected by this recall, however, they did not have a fix for it. My light indicating that the passenger airbag is off has been on for over a month. I have contacted Volkswagen and their response to me was "just don't put anyone in the front seat". That response is simply unacceptable when my family and friends lives are at stake. This is approximately the 10 safety recall on this vehicle.
Jun 15, 2023
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,PARKING BRAKE
1 complaint
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request?
Full Electrical system failure. Yes, car is available for inspection. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Car became inoperable while driving, parking brake auto engaged and cannot be manually disengaged. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? The problem, believed to be caused by the wiring harness being soaked in water in the driver side door panel, occurred 3 weeks later after initial inspection. After sealing and a car wash to reproduce, the dealer was not able to get water to enter the area again. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? Vehicle was only inspected by the dealer technicians. I called VW but they did not follow up. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? It appeared that all the warning lamps appears on during the failure. A day or so earlier, the Cruise Control would not activate, I suspect this was related.
Jan 24, 2023
STEERING,POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
Steering assist failure at low and highway speed. Lurching and speed fluctuating at low and highway speed. Adaptive cruise control failure at low and highest speed. Yes, it is reproducible.
Dec 26, 2022
AIR BAGS,PARKING BRAKE
1 complaint
Thos vehicle has opened the rear hatch on two separate occasions, which was confirmed as an issue by both the local dealer, McLarty Volkswagen in North Little Rock, and Volkswagen Corporate. The airbag light is constantly on, and the parking brake may engage randomly. Volkswagen Corporate told us to "drive it as long as you feel comfortable with it, or just park it, but there isn't a plan and new parts can take 4-6 months to be ready." They also said no loaner vehicles are available due to the large amount of issues they are having. This is unacceptable as my wife and children ride in this vehicle daily and put their lives on the line with these issues.
May 13, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
1. I was driving towards a stop sign at about 15-20mph(school zone) and all of a sudden the vehicle slammed its brakes and shut off. The dashboards’ lights were all on. Vehicle motor was no longer on. I had cars behind me and my children in the car, so I had to quickly put the car back in Park and turn the car back on via push start. I know there has been a recall out for this door harness issue, however my vin is not showing to be part of it. As I believe it should. 2. The Airbag Error is also intermittently been popping up on the dashboard. I have had these checked out at Findlay Volkswagen however they couldn’t reproduce the problem. There were no warning lamps that popped up before the problems occurred. I am the main transport for my children, and I can not risk any problems with them in the vehicle. These need to be in recalls!
Apr 29, 2022
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint
Front passenger side tire on vehicle ruptured after the driver struck a rock in the road during the morning commute. Driver stopped vehicle and changed damaged tire using the provided spare tire. The spare tire provided with the vehicle by Volkswagen is not a full-sized spare. Upon continuing the commute, the car began to malfunction. The electronic stability control featured engaged, braking the car to almost a stop. Driver was unable to accelerate. Each time acceleration was attempted the electronic stability control would engage causing the car to come to almost a complete stop. The tire air pressure sensors were also malfunctioning with the spare. In order to get the car safely to the destination, the driver had to manually turn off the electronic stability control feature and reset the air pressure sensors. This practice had to be completed each time the car was started. However, the driver discontinued using the car until the tire could be replaced. Once the tire was replaced, the car systems went back to driving normally. Volkswagen should recall these cars and provide a full-size spare tire as the VW Atlas is basically nonoperational on the small spare tire provided. It puts the driver of the vehicle in a very unsafe situation.,
Apr 21, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,ENGINE
1 complaint
First issues started with the engine surging at low speeds or coming to a stop which progressed into complete engine stalls. Had the car at the dealer 3 different times, it doesn’t stall anymore but still surges. Have had multiple occurrences of instrument panel indicators going off to include Error:airbag, seatbelt light and beeps while seatbelt was fastened, frontal crash warning lights and sounds as well as watch for rear traffic lights and sounds (one being while I was backing out of the garage where there are no cars) and the last being engaging the parking brake multiple time while at a stop light. This vehicle definitely does not feel safe for me to drive myself and 2 children around in. A major accident could occur if airbags deploy randomly or don’t deploy when needed or if the parking brake is engaged while in motion and not while at a light next time. I don’t see how any of these issues aren’t a recall or being told by dealers that they’ve never heard of an issue before.
Apr 19, 2022
STEERING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
Military Combat Retired Veteran, purchased CPO 2019 Atlas from VW dealer. Claim filed with VW Customer care. Numerous issues with Steering Rack, and excessive vibrations at normal speeds. Vehicle has never sounded or handled like would be expected. First alignment and 4 wheel balance 1 month after purchase - 2 months later, steering rack replaced. 5 months and 5500 miles after rack replaced, brakes and tires worn 50% post-steering rack replacement. Dealer state 'steering rack retorqued', and ware on tires and brakes due to 'underinflation'. When asked what psi was on the tires, dealer did not take a readings. Tire ware does not indicate 'underinflation', or misalignment. Indicates issues with toe or camber - presumably from when steering rack was replaced. Dealer resolution was to replaced tires, brakes, and rotors at a cost of over $2000 - all of this without knowing exactly what is causing the excessive ware... each time, dealer indicates that "underinflation" or "alignment" issue - of which tire tread ware does not align with cause. Dealer still 'unsure' of what has caused issues, but 'is confident that it is good now'. At this point, without knowing the 'why' something is happening, and with dealer unable to determine root cause of problems, do not feel safe with my family in this vehicle.
Apr 15, 2022
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2019 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated that while using the key fob, the doors would not unlock and the contact was unable to open the doors. After manually opening the front driver’s side door, no other door could be unlocked and opened from inside the vehicle. In addition, both the front driver’s side and passenger’s side floor carpets were wet from the air conditioning condensation and moisture coming from under the front dash panel. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The manufacturer was also notified of the failure but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 40,000.
Apr 13, 2022
SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint
Purchased car from VW on 04/24/21. Noticed an issue the car breaking on its own at low speeds less then 5mph and then completely shutting off, about a month into owning it. 08/19/21 car was taken in for service to fix the automatic breaking issue/shutting off. Car was returned to me about a week later stating the "problem" was fixed. In December 2021, I started noticing the problem again, as this point I assume since the "problem" was fixed maybe this was just how the car was. Finally in March of 2022 while driving at a speed of about 30MPH the car started breaking on its own and completed shut off in the middle of driving! At that point it called my local VW and told them they need to take the Car in ASAP to have it looked at the fix this problem once and for all, as of now this is a MAJOR safety issue. Myself and my children could have been seriously injured from this incident!! After my local VW having the car for a few hours they called and said the issue was the newest recall with the door wiring harness and they will have my car for the "unforeseeable" future due to no repair in place at this time. Even if they claim to have "fixed" this issue again, I will never trust them as they claimed to have fixed it a previous time and they clearly DID NOT!!
Mar 29, 2022
PARKING BRAKE,VISIBILITY
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2019 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated while driving approximately 55 MPH, the driver's and front passenger’s side window failed to operate as needed. The contact also stated that the parking brake failed to operate as designed. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer to be diagnosed; however, the dealer was not able to assist. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was also notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 20,000.
Mar 24, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
Windows roll down by themselves. Parking brake applies itself without warning. Multiple warning lights saying parking brake error, start stop error, hill assist error, window sensor code, and constant dinging. Hill assist will come on even when not on a hill jarring you at higher speeds. Airbags deployed late during no fault Accident. The flaws in the vehicle didn’t cause the car accident, yet it wasn’t protecting me as it should have, but could very well cause an accident with the abrupt stopping, for no reason. I do have videos of the caution codes, it wouldn’t let me up load them so I took pictures of the videos.
Mar 21, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEAT BELTS,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
I have a 2019 VW R line that has been in the dealer repair for 2 months. All the lights on the dash mysteriously come on. The parking brake engages by itself and the rear window goes down. While in the parking lot, I videotaped one occurrence and the car would not stop beeping until I shut the car off and had to restart several times. I was told by dealer that the car was still not repaired because they are waiting for a part but still no part 2 months later. I was told it could not be driven because the car could suddenly brake whe driving and cause an accident or worse.
Mar 15, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
In Jan 2022, the air bag system error light lit up at start-up and remained lit. A first-available dealer appointment was made for 1/28, two weeks away. During those two weeks, the car started to issue a burst of random alerts during cold startup - driver door contact switch failure, cruise control (ACC) failure, start/stop system failure, and the rear driver side window would roll down several inches. Shutting off and restarting the car solved these alerts. The car was inspected on Jan 28; the dealer confirmed a faulty wiring harness in the driver side door. They also confirmed the random alerts were the same cause. The dealer stated that the driver side air bag was nonfunctional, but the rest of the air bag system was OK. A replacement part was ordered with an estimated delivery of 2-3 weeks. As such, we chose to keep driving the car. Over the ensuing weeks, the random alert sequence got more frequent and started to show an electronic parking brake alert and engage the parking brake at startup. It then began happening on later starts when the car was fully warmed and would resume after the car was shut off and restarted. Finally, the alerts started to happen while moving, and instead of just a single burst, became a continuing sequence. The alerts are a rapid-fire volley of warning dings/dongs and accompanying messages in front of the driver. At the same time, the rear driver-side window is moving and the door contact switch is clicking randomly in the driver's left ear. It is a startling volley, which combined with the other weird sounds, is a disorienting and panic-inducing 360-degree assault on the senses. After no word from the dealer. I called on Mar 4 and was told the part was on a nationwide backorde, with no ETA. I did some research and found numerous reports of the problem getting worse over time and the parking brake engaging while moving. As our experience matches the trend, I feel the car is no longer safe and have parked it until it is repaired.
Mar 05, 2022
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint
I currently lease a 2019 Atlas and have had multiple problems with the vehicle during my lease. The front-assist/collision or whatever it is that makes brakes slam has nearly caused accidents multiple times and makes it scary to drive the car. This happens even when there are no cars around and I am aware of the class action lawsuit investigation into these safety concerns. Additionally, the infotainment system has had several issues which are not resolved despite bringing it in for service multiple times. It shuts off suddenly, the ApplePlay has numerous problems. I have brought it to the dealer multiple times and they do nothing despite it being a known safety issue with Atlas. In the additional details section, I am not choosing a date because it has happened so many times.
Feb 20, 2022
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
This is a safety issue where this can be dangerous for drivers like myself and their families life, and others life at risk. This reporting is to prevent and avert future accidents. Headlights brightness in 2019-2020 Atlas Se with Tec is very poor. Due to dull brightness (Low Beam) night driving is very exhaustive and need to very extreme alert state. This causes strain eyes and causes fatigue during long drive. Lights are so dull when an oncoming very old cars with halogens lights passes by, led lights in Atlas fades away from road. Usually leds lights are suppose to have more brightness and good lumen rating. When it is raining and after road is wet one cannot properly see lights on the road. One time narrowly escaped (thanks to extreme cautious) from hitting a pedestrian who was walking in a pitched dark road(right side) at night. Right side illumination was dim that is why couldn't see the person from a distance. In 2021 Atlas, VW made such a brightness improvements that it projects some glare for oncoming traffic. For reference youtube video link is attached. Video at 0:12 - 0:39 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VQ-Ml5BRvgA To validate my finding I have attached two links from reputable source who inspected headlights: IIHS.ORG (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). In their findings 2019 Atlas Se with Tec has poor rating whereas 2021 Atlas Se with Tec has Medium rating. 1. https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/Volkswagen/atlas-4-door-suv/2019 2. https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/Volkswagen/atlas-4-door-suv/2021 Below I have attached few links from 2019-2020 Atlas competitors who were also analyzed by IIHS>ORG. They all received acceptable and good ratings: 1. https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/Hyundai/palisade-4-door-suv/2020 2. https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/Mazda/cx-9-4-door-suv/2019 3. https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/Toyota/highlander-4-door-suv/2019 4. https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/Honda/pilot-4-door-suv/2019
Dec 30, 2021
WHEELS,LANE DEPARTURE
1 complaint
WAS TRAVELING ON EXPRESSWAY WHEN MY PASSENGER SIDE REAR TIRE BLEW. UPON PULLING OFF THE ROAD I SAW THAT THE WHOLE TIRE HAD SEPARATED FROM THE SIDEWALL AND WOULD NEED TO BE TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP. ONCE AT THE DEALERSHIP IT WAS DETERMINED THE BLOW OUT CAUSED DAMAGE TO THE STRUT, EMISSIONS, AND WHEEL LINING. WHEN I GOT HOME I RESEARCHED MY TIRES WHICH ARE CONTINENTAL CROSS CONTACT SPORT LX IN SIZE 225/50/20 AND FOUND THAT THEY HAVE A LONG LIST OF RECALLS ON THIS MODEL OF TIRE. I CALLED CONTINENTAL AND PROVIDED THE DOT NUMBER AND MOLD NUMBER BUT WAS TOLD IT WAS NOT PART OF THE RECALL EVEN THOUGH WHAT HAPPENED TO MY TIRE IS WHAT THE RECALL STATES CAN HAPPEN. I INFORMED THE REPRESENTATIVE THAT I BELIEVE MY TIRE(S) IS ONE OF THE AFFECTED TIRES AS THIS LIST IS ON GOING. I ENDED UP FILING A PROPERTY DAMAGE CLAIM WITH CONTINENTAL AS I FEEL THEY ARE LIABLE FOR THE DAMAGE.
Mar 21, 2021
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
THE REAR WINDOW ROLLS DOWN BY ITSELF WITH NOBODY TOUCHING ANY OF THE BUTTONS. THE LIGHT POPS UP ON THE DASH AND SAYS FAULTY ELECTRICAL. THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION, IN THE CITY. THE VEHICLE WILL SUDDENLY ATTEMPT TO STOP IN THE MIDDLE OF A DRIVE/MIDDLE OF THE ROAD. ALMOST AS IF THE EMERGENCY BREAK HAS BEEN PULLED, ONLY NOBODY HAS TOUCHED IT. THE EMERGENCY BRAKE LIGHT DOES COME ON. AGAIN, IN MOTION, ON THE HIGHWAY (HAS HAPPENED A FEW TIMES). NOW, THE REMOTE START DOES NOT WORK.
Jan 07, 2021
SUSPENSION,ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint
THE CAR RANDOMLY DOES NOT ACCELERATE AT LOW SPEEDS WHEN CHANGING LANES IN TRAFFIC, HAS A SCREECHING NOISE UPON ACCELERATION THAT VW SAYS IS A NORMAL LOUD NOISE BECAUSE ITS TOO EXPENSIVE TO REPAIR ALL THE VEHICLES (THAT'S THE EXACT WORDS FROM THE VW MECHANIC). I HAVE A VIDEO THAT SHOWS THE PROBLEM WITH EXCELEAREATION YET VW TELLS ME THEY'RE NOTHING WRONG WITH THE CAR. THE SWAY BARS HAVE BEEN REPLACED TWO TIMES IN 6 MONTHS AND THE PROBLEM STILL ISN'T REPAIRED. THE AUTO COLLISION RANDOMLY WORKS.
Nov 18, 2020
STEERING,WHEELS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
I BOUGHT MY NEW VW ATLAS IN DECEMBER OF 2019. WHEN I BOUGHT IT, I NOTICED A RUBBING/SQUEAKING NOISE WHEN I TURNED THE STEERING WHEEL BUT WAS TOLD THAT WAS NORMAL FOR A NEW VEHICLES. SO, I LET IT GO, THEN CAME TO REALIZE IT CONTINUED TO GET WORSE AND LOUDER OVER TIME. SO AT MY 10,000 MILE CHECK, THEY TOLD ME IT WAS THE STEERING RACK THAT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED ASAP BUT THAT IT WAS ON BACK ORDER AND COULD TAKE A COUPLE OF WEEKS FOR THE PART TO COME IN. I WAS TOLD THIS WAS NOT A COMMON ISSUE. SO I WAITED 3-4 WEEKS, AND THE PART FINALLY CAME IN. IT WAS REPLACED AND I THOUGHT I WAS DONE WITH REPAIRS EARLY ON. THEN, A COUPLE OF DAYS PASS AND I FIND THAT THERE IS STILL SOMEWHAT OF A NOISE WHEN I TURN MY WHEEL AND ESPECIALLY WHEN I'M ON THE BACKROADS GOING OVER BUMPS. I TAKE IT BACK THE DEALERSHIP AND OF COURSE, THEY CAN'T REPLICATE THE PROBLEM. A COUPLE MORE WEEKS PASS, I'M STILL HEARING A CREAKY NOISE AND THEN ONE NIGHT ON MY WAY HOME, ALL OF THE SENSOR AND WARNING LIGHTS LIGHT UP IN MY DIGITAL COCKPIT. I HAVE IT TOWED, VW DETERMINES IT'S A TIRE SENSOR OF WHICH THEY REPAIR. THREE WEEKS LATER, HERE I AM AGAIN AND ALL OF MY TIRE PRESSURE SENSORS ARE ON AGAIN ON MY WAY HOME FROM WORK. I HAVE A NEW TIRE FROM WHERE I GOT A FLAT TWO WEEKS AGO, AND THAT TIRE PRESSURE SENSOR LIGHT IS ALSO ON. SO, NOW NOT ONLY AM I HAVING AN ISSUE WITH MY TIRES BUT THE FIRST STEERING WHEEL NOISE ISSUE STILL ISN'T REPAIRED ON AN ATLAS THAT I BOUGHT WITH 12 MILES ON IT IN DECEMBER OF 2019. VW CORPORATE HAS BEEN CALLED, THE DEALERS CORPORATE HAS BEEN CALLED AND STILL I HAVEN'T GOTTEN NOWHERE.
Oct 19, 2020
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
CAR DISENGAGED ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL AND EMERGENCY BRAKED SUDDENLY ("SLAMMED ON THE BRAKES"), WHILE DASHBOARD LIGHTS FLASHED WARNINGS OF FRONT END IMPACT AND DISENGAGEMENT OF ACC AND ALL ASSISTANCE SYSTEMS. THE CAR WAS TRAVELING 68MPH ON A STRAIGHT LINE, FLAT BRIDGE OVER WATER. OTHER CARS WERE TO THE SIDE AND REAR OF THE VEHICLE, BUT NO FRONT END COLLISION WAS POSSIBLE AT THE TIME. DEALERSHIP CLAIMS THIS IS A RADAR ISSUE THAT "EVERY CAR HAS." EXTREMELY DANGEROUS!
Sep 05, 2020
POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
CAR JUST STOPS WHEN LEAVING A PARKING LOT AND MY DRIVEWAY , NO OTHER CARS ARE IN THE AREA. BRAKING IS JERKY ALERT SYSTEM GOES CRAZY WITH NO ONE AROUND THE CAR JUST STOPS. THIS HAPPEN TO US A TOTAL OF 7 TIMES SO FAR. I THE FIRST TIME I REPORTED TO THE DEALER WAS ON JUNE 8 THE CAR HAD 500 MILES. WENT BACK TO THE DEALER LATE JUNE AND THEY TEST DROVE THE CAR WITH US. IT DIDNT STOP BUT THE SERVICE MANGER DID WITNESS THE SENSITIVE ALERTS AND STATED THAT HE WOULD CONTACT THE FIELD MANAGER. NO FOLLOW UP FROM THE DEALER WAS RECEIVED FOR THREE WEEKS . THIS DEALER IS NOT ACTING IN GOOD FAITH. THEN HE SAYS THAT THERE IS NO UPDATES TO THE COLLISION WARNING SYSTEM AND TOLD US TO CALL CUSTOMER CARE. I HAVE A 43,000 CAR THAT I AM AFRAID TO DRIVE.
Aug 10, 2020
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
I HAVE BEEN HAVING PROBLEMS WITH THE CAR SLAMMING ON BRAKES FOR NO REASON, NO CARS IN FRONT OF US WE WERE ON THE HIGHWAY DRIVING AT ABOUT 70 MPH. THE ACC SYSTEM WORKS SPORADICALLY. WE WERE TOLD THAT WHEN THEY DID THE RECALL REPAIR IT DEPROGRAMMED THE ACC WHICH THEY SAY THERE IS NO SOFTWARE UPDATE. MY DAUGHTER WAS PARKING THE CAR AND THE CAR SHUT OFF ON THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD AND TOLD HER TO MANUALLY RESTART THE CAR. THERE IS A GRINDING NOISE WHEN ACCELERATING THE DEALERSHIP SAID THIS WAS 'NORMAL AND RELATED TO THE TORQUE CONVERTER. THE CRUISE CONTROL ALSO WORKS SPORADICALLY SINCE THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CAR STALLING AND SLAMMING ON BRAKES ARE BOTH VERY SERIOUS SAFETY CONCERNS.
Jun 30, 2020
SUSPENSION,AIR BAGS,WHEELS
1 complaint
STRUCK A LARGE POTHOLE WITH DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT WHEEL WHILE TRAVELING 15MPH ON A ROUNDABOUT WHICH APPARENTLY CAUSED THE SIDE AIRBAGS TO DEPLOY. NO BODY DAMAGE AND NO APPEARANCE OF SUSPENSION DAMAGE. TIRE AND WHEEL REMAINED INTACT, DROVE STRAIGHT TO DEALERSHIP FOR CLOSER LOOK/EXPLANATION AS TO WHY ALL SIDE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED.
Feb 16, 2020
STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
VEHICLE WOULD TURN OFF WHILE IN DRIVE. ORIGINALLY HAPPENED WHEN GOING IN REVERSE UP A HILL, VEHICLE WARNING TO PUT INTO PARK AND MANUALLY RESTART. HAPPENED 2 MORE TIMES AND WAS BROUGHT IN FOR REPAIR. DEALERSHIP WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE ISSUE. IT HAPPENED AGAIN AND WAS BROUGHT BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP. THEY CONTACTED VW AND RECOMMENDED THE FUEL PUMP BE REPLACED. THEY COMPLETED THE REPAIRS. THEN A WEEK LATER WHILE DRIVING ON THE PARKWAY AT APPROX. 75 MPH THE VEHICLE BEGAN SLOWING DOWN, I WAS DRIVING IN THE MIDDLE LANE, I WAS ABLE TO START TO GET OVER TO THE SHOULDER AS THE VEHICLE STARTED DECLINING SPEED, I WAS UNABLE TO USE THE GAS, SO I WAS ALMOST COASTING TO THE SHOULDER. THEN IT STATED PUT IN PARK AND START VEHICLE MANUALLY WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STILL IN DRIVE AND AT A SPEED OF 45. I WAS ABLE TO GET TO THE SHOULDER AND PARKED THE VEHICLE, EVERYTHING LOCKED UP. THERE WAS AN EPC LIGHT ON, A CHECK ENGINE LIGHT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED.
Jan 12, 2020
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
WHEN THE VEHICLE COMES TO A STOP AND THE AUTO START/STOP ACTIVATES, THE VEHICLE WILL SOMETIMES NOT AUTO RESTART AND WILL DISPLAY, "PLEASE MANUALLY RESTART THE ENGINE". IN ORDER TO FOLLOW THE PROMPTS AND START THE VEHICLE AGAIN, YOU HAVE TO PUT THE VEHICLE IN PARK AND PUSH THE IGNITION BUTTON. I WAS ABLE TO RECREATE THIS ISSUE 100% OF THE TIME BY COMING TO A STOP, HAVING THE IGNITION AUTO STOP AND THEN REMOVING MY SEAT BELT (LIKE YOU OFTEN DO IN A DRIVE-THRU TO GET YOUR WALLET OUT OF YOUR BACK POCKET). I'VE ALSO FOUND THAT EVEN THOUGH THE VEHICLE WILL DISPLAY, "PLEASE MANUALLY RESTART" IF YOU RECONNECT YOUR SEAT BELT AND PUSH THE GAS PEDAL, THE CAR WILL TAKE OFF IN DRIVE. I"VE HAD THIS HAPPEN UNEXPECTEDLY ON FOUR DIFFERENT OCCASIONS NOW AND SOME INCIDENTS HAVE OCCURRED IN THE STREET AND OCCURRED EVEN WHEN THE SEAT BELT WAS ATTACHED. THIS IS A MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE THAT COULD RESULT IN A CRASH WITH SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN TO VW TWICE NOW OVER THE ISSUE AND THE DEALER TRIES TO CLAIM THAT'S HOW THE VEHICLE IS DESIGNED TO OPERATE. I SHOWED THEM PAGE 173 IN THE OWNER'S MANUAL WHICH STATES THAT ALL THREE OF THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS MUST BE MET FOR THE VEHICLE NOT TO AUTO RESTART: NO PEDAL IS DEPRESSED, THE DRIVER'S SEAT BELT IS REMOVED, AND THE DRIVER'S DOOR IS OPENED. THE WORD ALL IS IN BOLD AND CAPITALIZED IN THE OWNERS MANUAL. MY VEHICLE IS CURRENTLY BACK AT THE DEALERSHIP AND I'VE ALSO CONTACTED VW CORPORATE IN REFERENCE TO THE ISSUE. THE LOANER ATLAS THE DEALER GAVE ME PERFORMS IN THE SAME DEFECTIVE MANNER. I BELIEVE THERE'S A COMPUTER PROGRAMMING ISSUE AND ALL ATLAS' NEED RECALLED TO CORRECT THE ISSUE BECAUSE THEY'RE NOT PERFORMING PER THE OWNER'S MANUAL; WHICH COULD LEAD TO SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. THERE IS VIDEO OF THE ISSUE AND THE DEALER WAS ABLE TO RECREATE THE PROBLEM AS WELL EVEN THOUGH THEY ARE FIGHTING ME TO CORRECT THE ISSUE.
Nov 30, 2019
POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
WE BOUGHT THIS NEW VEHICLE ON NOVEMBER 8, 2019. AN EXTREMELY STRONG ODOR PROTRUDED FROM THIS VEHICLE INSIDE THE CABIN WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS IDLING AND WHEN TURNED OFF. IT SMELLED LIKE BURNING PAINT OR AN ENGINE BURNING SMELL. IT WAS NAUSEATING AND MADE MY SIX YEAR OLD SON VERY SICK. THIS WAS OUR PRIMARY AND MOST IMPORTANT, VITAL CONCERN AND WORRY.
Nov 22, 2019
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
THE CAR IS 6 MONTHS OLD. WE HAVE 5 DOCUMENTED CASES OF THE VEHICLE STOPPING/BRAKING ON IT'S OWN FOR NO REASON. THE DEALER AND VW CORPORATE DO NOT HAVE A FIX AND SUGGESTED WE KEEP DRIVING IT TO GET MORE DOCUMENTED OCCURRENCES. THE VEHICLE POSES AN EXTREME SAFETY RISK AT THIS TIME DUE TO FAULTY BRAKING ASSIST MECHANISMS. 2 OF THE 5 OCCURRENCES INVOLVED IT THROWING THE PARKING BRAKE ON BY ITSELF AND THE OTHER 3 WERE DRASTIC SLOW DOWNS WITH NOTHING AROUND. ALL INCIDENTS REPORTS ARE ATTACHED AND ARE EXACTLY WHAT WAS TURNED INTO THE DEALER AND VW CORPORATE.
Aug 23, 2019
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
1) RADAR AUTO-BRAKE: WHEN PARALLEL PARKING AND BACKING ( GOING IN REVERSE ) PARALLEL TO THE CURB, AT MAYBE 2 MPH AND 10 INCHES FROM CURB, I GOT YELLOW STOP, STOP !!!!!!! MESSAGE FOLLOWED BY SENSATION OF HITTING AN OBJECT AND BEING THROWN INTO THE SEAT. ONLY THERE WAS NO OBJECT. RAN OUT OF A CAR, NOTHING AND NOBODY THERE, AT LEAST FOR 50 YARDS. AN AUTO-BRAKE ENGAGED. THAT IS REALLY BROKEN. INTERFERENCE CAUSED IT TO DO THAT ? OVERHEATED COMPUTER IN 90 DEGREE SUN ? 2) TRANSMISSION LOGIC: UNRELATED TO ABOVE, WHEN GOING IN SLOW TRAFFIC 2-10 MPH, PRESSING GAS SHIFTS TRANSMISSION INTO HIGHER GEAR INSTEAD OF LOWER, RESULTING IN HIT-LIKE ENGAGEMENT AND ACTUAL INABILITY TO REV THE ENGINE AND ACCELERATE. SLOW AND DEEP PEDAL MOVEMENT DOES DOWNSHIFT AND ACCELERATE BUT TOO MUCH. ALL CARS ARE LIKE THAT AND I TEST DROVE SEVERAL. 3) TRANSMISSION LOGIC: RELATED TO (2) ABOVE, PARADOXICALLY IN SPORT DRIVING MODE, WHEN TRYING TO ACCELERATE AND MERGE HIGHWAY FROM 10 MPH, TRANSMISSION SHIFTED UP SEVERAL GEARS, NOT ALLOWING TO REV THE ENGINE, AND RESULTED IN RPM DECAY /POWER LOSS -- VERY SCARY. THAT LAUNCH WAS TIMELY ABORTED, AND DRIVER LATER MERGED THE ROAD IN MANUAL "TIPTRONIC" MODE. 4) IMPROPER GAS PEDAL CALIBRATION: COMPARED TO OTHER GERMAN, JAPANESE AND AMERICAN CARS, VW ATLAS HAS ABNORMAL AND UNSAFE GAS PEDAL CALIBRATION. FROM A STOP, ONLY LIGHTLY FEATHERING THE PEDAL RESULTS IN CIVILIZED CONTROLLED MOTION. NORMAL GAS PEDAL PRESSURE RESULTS IN A CAR ROCKETING FORWARD UNCONTROLLABLY. VW HAS TO TALK TO SOME OTHER MANUFACTURERS AND GET THEIR GAS CALIBRATION CONSISTENT WITH OTHER CARS, SO IT CAN BE DRIVEN STEADY AND SAFELY AT SLOW SPEEDS WHEN NECESSARY.
Jul 02, 2019
SEAT BELTS,SEATS
1 complaint
WHILE DRIVING AND COMING TO A SLOW STOP AT A STOP SIGN. THE MIDDLE ROW RIGHT SIDE SEAT DISENGAGED WHILE CHILD AND CAR SEAT IN THE SEAT AND FLUNG FORWARDED AND INTO THE BACK OF THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT.
Feb 19, 2019
Where to Find VIN for Problems Check
To check for problems and complaints on your 2019 VOLKSWAGEN Atlas, you'll need the VIN number. Find your VIN in one of these 4 common locations.
Understanding VIN Structure for Problem Reports
Each character in your 2019 VOLKSWAGEN Atlas 17-digit VIN helps identify specific complaints and problems affecting your vehicle model.
How to Check 2019 VOLKSWAGEN Atlas Problems in 3 Steps
1
Locate Your VIN
Find the 17-character VIN on your 2019 VOLKSWAGEN Atlas dashboard (visible through windshield), door jamb, engine bay, or vehicle documents.
2
Review by Component
Browse owner-reported complaints organized by vehicle component (engine, transmission, brakes, electrical) to identify common issues and problem patterns for this model year.
3
Check Safety Issues
Review crash and fire incidents for each component to assess safety concerns. Contact your VOLKSWAGEN dealer or report problems to NHTSA at SaferCar.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 2019 VOLKSWAGEN Atlas have?
The 2019 VOLKSWAGEN Atlas currently has 437 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 2019 VOLKSWAGEN Atlas?
The most common problems reported for the 2019 VOLKSWAGEN Atlas 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 2019 VOLKSWAGEN Atlas problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 2019 VOLKSWAGEN Atlas comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.
How do I report problems with my 2019 VOLKSWAGEN Atlas?
You can report safety problems with your 2019 VOLKSWAGEN Atlas directly to NHTSA at SaferCar.gov or call 1-888-327-4236. Your complaint helps identify patterns and may lead to recalls or investigations.
Where can I find my VIN to check problems?
Your 2019 VOLKSWAGEN Atlas VIN is located in 4 places: (1) Dashboard near windshield on driver's side, (2) Driver's door jamb sticker, (3) Engine bay, (4) Vehicle registration and insurance documents.
Is the 2019 VOLKSWAGEN Atlas reliable?
Reliability can be assessed by reviewing the number and severity of owner complaints for the 2019 VOLKSWAGEN Atlas. Check complaints by component, crash reports, and fire incidents above to evaluate potential issues and problem patterns.
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