Volkswagen Atlas problems
The Volkswagen Atlas is a mid-size crossover SUV manufactured by the German automaker Volkswagen since 2017. Developed mainly for the North American and Chinese market, the vehicle is based on the Volkswagen Group MQB platform. Outside the US, Canadian, and Chilean markets, the vehicle is marketed as the Volkswagen Teramont. It is positioned above the long-wheelbase Tiguan and below the smaller but more upmarket Touareg.
Overview
Marketed as the Atlas in North America, Chile, and Israel, the vehicle is known as the Teramont elsewhere, including the rest of the Middle East Africa, as well as in Mexico, Russia, Colombia and China, where production in Ningbo began in 2017. For markets outside China, the Atlas/Teramont is produced in the Chattanooga plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee, United States.
The vehicle features a transverse mounted four-cylinder or Volkswagen's VR6 engine. Up to the introduction of the China-only Viloran, the Atlas was the largest vehicle produced on the Volkswagen Group MQB platform.
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Volkswagen Atlas model years
Common Volkswagen Atlas problems
The Volkswagen Atlas, a midsize SUV with a starting price in the $30,000 range, has faced several common problems affecting its braking system, transmission, electrical system, engine, and fuel system. These issues have been reported by owners of 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021 models.
- Braking System: The automated emergency brake system (AEB) is known to suddenly brake for no reason, increasing the risk of accidents on the road. Additionally, brakes may squeal in cold weather.
- Transmission: Loud noises coming from the automatic transmission, usually when accelerating from a stop or low speed, have been reported by owners. This issue is particularly prevalent in 2018 models, which have the most overall complaints and are rated as the worst model year.
- Electrical System: Volkswagen Atlas models equipped with a start-stop system have been experiencing battery drainage, sometimes within just 2 months. In some cases, the defective electrical system has also caused transmission failure. A clockspring, which is an electrical rotary part of the steering system, has also been heard making noises when steering. The 2021 model year has gained notoriety for a faulty electrical system, with over 90 electric system complaints, including faulty service brakes, defective door sensors, and a wonky stop-start technology.
- Engine & Fuel System: Many Atlas owners have complained about the check engine light illuminating randomly. Engine stalling caused by a fuel system leak increases the chance of fire risk, with faulty fuel injectors cracking and leaking. A recent recall has been issued for this problem. Another important related fuel problem is faulty fuel pumps causing engine stalling and power loss, which is usually covered by the warranty and can be fixed by simply replacing the fuel pump.
- Coolant: Coolant leaking might result in the engine overheating, potentially causing damage. This problem is usually caused by faulty head gaskets, coolant tanks, and water pumps.
These common problems with the Volkswagen Atlas have led to numerous complaints and recalls, affecting the reliability and safety of the vehicle. Owners of these models may be entitled to compensation or a buyback under California's lemon law, which is designed to protect consumers from defective vehicles.
Do VW Atlas have problems?
The 2021 Atlas has gained notoriety for one particular issue: a faulty electrical system. Since the electrical system controls many interior tech and safety features, a flawed system can spell a frustrating or even dangerous driving experience.
Is the Volkswagen Atlas a reliable vehicle?
Volkswagen Atlases rank near the middle of the pack in terms of reliability. Overall reliability often stems from an affordable cost of ownership, high safety ratings, above-average fuel efficiency, below-average repair costs, and measured dependability.
How long does a VW Atlas last?
200,000 miles
With proper maintenance, a Volkswagen Atlas can last well over 200,000 miles. Its longevity speaks to Volkswagen's commitment to durability and quality, making it a smart investment for the long haul.
What is the defect in the VW Atlas?
Broken down, the issue currently within the engine of the vehicle mainly takes place with the connecting rod bearing failure, which could cause catastrophic engine failure. If the issue is ignored, it could lead to further catastrophic damage to the engine and can cause a fire.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Volkswagen Atlas years
We have researched Volkswagen problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Volkswagen Atlas cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Volkswagen Atlas model years:
- Volkswagen Atlas 2018
- Volkswagen Atlas 2019
- Volkswagen Atlas 2021
- Volkswagen Atlas 2022
- Volkswagen Atlas 2023
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Volkswagen Atlas model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Volkswagen Atlas years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Volkswagen Atlas car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Volkswagen Atlas , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
- Service brakes problems
- Engine problems
- Forward collision avoidance problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Volkswagen Atlas vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Atlas model years
A total of 18 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Atlas model years
There were a total of 3 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Atlas model years
There were a total of 37 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 1263 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Volkswagen Atlas . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Volkswagen Atlas vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Volkswagen Atlas 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-26
- VIN: 1V2DR2CA1RC
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Vehicle has randomly applied emergency breaking with the Forward Collision Warning System activating when no vehicles, pedestrians, animals, or objects were present to initiate this safety feature. This has happened in October of 2023, March of 2024, and August of 2024. Infotainment System has been replaced once to address several issues. These issues have not being resolved. Vehicle is currently at VW for the 9th+ time to rectify multiple issues with vehicle. Have started the Lemon Law process for this vehicle.
Volkswagen Atlas 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 1V2JP2CA7PC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I bought my car about 5 months ago. 3 weeks ago while merging onto the beltway, MY CAR SHUT OFF. I took it to the dealership and they kept it 9 days. They did absolutely NOTHING. I contacted corporate they are doing NOTHING. this has happened twice. It's an intermittent issue and all VW has to say is that "since there is no fault code and they cannot duplicate the issue" there's nothing they can do. Online I've found several others with the same issue. I sent screenshots and links to YouTube videos of several others with the SAME issue and they still do not care. I told them what other dealers did to fix this safety issue and they won't do anything, even though the car is under warranty. They told me the car is fine even though I was nearly in a 4 car accident. This is a MAJOR safety issue in VW cars. My car note is $950 and I don't feel safe driving my car.
Volkswagen Atlas 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 1V2PR2CA3MC
- Components: POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I have had issue after issue with this car ever since I got it. Within the first year of my lease, my car was at the dealership for 4 to 5 months. Most of it in one long stint. The vehicle was consistently having problems. All the while, I’m paying for a car I wasn’t even able to drive for a huge chunk of year 1. One time, the car completely shut down and stopped in the middle of the freeway with my three young children in the car with me. The brakes on this car have been an issue since I bought it as well. Not only have the brakes squeaked the entire time I’ve owned the car, VW has since come out and said that the brakes are defective but they’re unwilling to offer any solution. There have been factory issues with this vehicle many many times that have caused real safety issues. Rarely did Volkswagon actually offer any sort of fix or realistic timeline for when I can expect things to be addressed. Even in some cases, they just completely ignored me as if I’m just a number and not an actual customer Who drives his children in this car. This was my third Volkswagen. I have always sang the praises of VW. But this experience has quite literally made me never want to buy another Volkswagon product again. I have about nine payments remaining on my lease and I am anxious to move on to a better safer vehicle with a brand that does right by the consumer. Volkswagon told me that even with all of what I’ve been through with Volkswagon, which is on the record by the way in the form of repair orders, as well as cost to customer service, I did not qualify for a buyback on my vehicle. Nor would they let me just return my lease. The dealership has basically said that their hands are tied. And corporate has repeatedly done nothing, and turned me away. I asked that you guys step in not only for me in particular, but for all the other Volkswagon owners who are unhappy. And there are many. Especially those who drive the same make, and model is me, the atlas. Thank you.
Volkswagen Atlas 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-31
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 1V2KR2CA6PC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: There have been issues with my control panel/radio multiple times since purchasing this vehicle May 2023. At least twice, the control panel went black while I was driving, or backing, and would only reset after placing car in park and turning car off and back on. The issue was reported to dealer who said they couldn't recreate it and the system was up to date, so no help/fix. These occurred before the 10k mile service at dealership. A different time, the radio went silent and the control panel froze. The functionality only returned after doing a "hard reset" , as suggested in an online forum. Turning the vehicle on and off did not help. There was at least one other instance when the sound and functionality of the radio/media options completed shut off for several minutes before resetting itself while I was driving and unable to pull over to turn the vehicle on/off.
Volkswagen Atlas 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 1V2FR2CA8MC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: Brought car in for a noise 12k miles ago and dealer said all was well. I then brought the car back and they heard the sound, wanted to explore and take apart the engine and found I have a collapsed lifter on the exhaust cam which if a defect, should be completely covered by the manufacturer not just a portion of the repair. Also, this could cause further issues and damage with the car which is concerning since it had been going on for some time. I am just looking to see what further resolution can be made in regard to this. My car is still in the shop since last week. The dealership has been great in allowing me to have a loaner vehicle but I just want to make sure I don’t have more major issues form this not being taken care of as soon as it should have been.
Volkswagen Atlas 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-20
- VIN: 1V2GR2CA8KC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The car would state, “Do not exit the car unless it is in park.” “Transmission is in safety mode.” Appointment was made and over July 17th. Part was not in until August 15th. This presents a danger for Atlas drivers if the shifter fails and the car could roll. Volkswagon had a similar recall for Golf, Beetle, and Jetta models.
Volkswagen Atlas 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
- VIN: 1V2ER2CA8MC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Brakes had to be replaced at only 19,500 miles and now the car has 38,000 miles and they sound horrible again. The entire time I’ve had this car the brakes have made squealing and grinding noises. The VW dealer couldn’t access VW brakes last year due to shortage so put after market rotors on my car without my permission. I had a loaner and they called and told me my car was “ready” out of the blue. Horrible experiences. Will never buy a VW again.
Volkswagen Atlas 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-19
- VIN: 1V2KP2CAXMC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The LED parking light stopped working and we can change the entire headlight. About 1500$
Volkswagen Atlas 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: 1V2KR2CA2NC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V646000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. 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. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Volkswagen Atlas 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: 1V2AR2CA7NC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V464000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. 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. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Volkswagen Atlas 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: 1V2BR2CAXRC
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Infotainment System issue-basically the screen that controls the vehicle- apple car play (maps, phone, talk to text),radio, climate control etc. Screen pixelates and goes completely black losing maps, talk to text, phone etc. We have had the vehicle in 3 times. There is NO FIX from VW at this time. They replaced the screen and it continues to happen. Safety-can't talk to text, make phone calls (illegal to do in Michigan via your actual phone). Maps - goes black. Can't find how to get somewhere. We have been to service-VW doesn't have a fix at this time. Vehicle was purchased brand new April 2024. This problem started at 4 days old with 32 miles on it. No warning. Just goes black or starts to pixelate randomly
Volkswagen Atlas 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
- VIN: 1V2LR2CA7RC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,BACK OVER PREVENTION
- Summary: I have a 2024 VW Atlas and the infotainment screen sporadically goes pixelated and it is very hard to use the touchscreen controls. When this happens the rearview camera is also impossible to use as the screen is all scrambled. I have in Massachusetts and now since it cold in the morning if the screen is scrambled it makes it very hard to control the heat and turn on the defroster. I will have to let my car sit in my driveway running for at least 20 minutes before I can see out the window. The car has been to VW 3 times now and nothing has been resolved. They are now telling me that they are waiting on a new software updated that will happen mid December. This is a major safety issue and needs to be resolved immediately. Looking online this is a MAJOR problem that VW is aware of but don't have a resolution to.
Volkswagen Atlas 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
- VIN: 1V2KP2CA3MC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V464000(Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. An unknown local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Volkswagen Atlas 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 1V2AR2CA0JC
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The rack and pinion failed, and the steering wheel was very difficult to move and maneuver. According to the service advisor, it is known that if the Rack and Pinion is immersed in water due to floods, that causes the electronics of the system to fail. This causes the steering wheel to become very stiff and it is very hard to maneuver the car. Rain is very common in all parts of the world, including in Puerto Rico, and it is not safe to be driving a car that could 'lock' the steering wheel in any random occasion after a pouring rain event.
Volkswagen Atlas 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- VIN: 1V2TR2CA7MC
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Tire: Continental CrossContact LX Sport 255/50 R20 105T Incident Description: While traveling about 65mph, in the center lane of I-40, under clear weather conditions, the vehicle, a 2021 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium, experienced a sudden and catastrophic failure of the left rear tire. No object or pothole was hit in the road. The failure was characterized by a loud noise, an immediate deceleration of the vehicle, and significant vibrations. No warning lamps, messages or other symptoms prior to the failure. Actions Taken: The vehicle was safely maneuvered from the center lane to the right shoulder of the highway without further incident. Upon exiting the vehicle, a visual inspection revealed that the left rear tire had exploded, causing extensive damage to the vehicle’s left side. The damage included significant harm to the wheel well, rear suspension, and other structural and mechanical components. Additionally, remnants of the tire were found in the middle of the highway that were unable to be retrieved safely. Subsequent Measures: The vehicle was towed from the scene on a flatbed truck to a repair center and damage was repaired. Tire was submitted to Continental for review under a property damage claim. Continental declined culpability, citing potential previous damage to the tire sidewall that may not have been visible. Tire had no visible damage prior to the blow-out.
Latest 5 recalls Volkswagen Atlas
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 63 recalls for different components of the Volkswagen Atlas.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Volkswagen Atlas 2024
- Report Received Date: 2024-09-27
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2024 Atlas and 2024 Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The brake master cylinder may have been assembled with an incorrect secondary piston spring retainer, which can block the brake fluid port.
- Consequence: An obstructed brake fluid port can cause a loss of brake function, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the brake master cylinder, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 21, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen Customer Relations at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 471F.
- Model: Volkswagen Atlas 2024
- Report Received Date: 2024-06-27
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (VW) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Golf R, Golf GTI, 2024 Atlas, and 2024 Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The rearview camera image may be delayed or deactivated after shifting into reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Consequence: A rearview camera with a delayed or deactivated image reduces the driver's view of what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury or crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the infotainment system software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 15, 2024, and July 16, 2024. Owners may contact VW customer service at 1-800-893-5298. VW's number for this recall is 91US.
- Model: Volkswagen Atlas 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-06-20
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Atlas and 2020-2024 Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The passenger occupant detection system (PODS) may experience a fault in the wiring and deactivate the front passenger air bag when the seat is occupied.
- Consequence: A deactivated passenger air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the PODS sensor mat and wiring harness, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 30, 2024, October 18, 2024, and December 31, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69PZ.
- Model: Volkswagen Atlas 2024
- Report Received Date: 2024-06-20
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Atlas and 2020-2024 Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The passenger occupant detection system (PODS) may experience a fault in the wiring and deactivate the front passenger air bag when the seat is occupied.
- Consequence: A deactivated passenger air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the PODS sensor mat and wiring harness, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 30, 2024, October 18, 2024, and December 31, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69PZ.
- Model: Volkswagen Atlas 2021
- Report Received Date: 2024-06-20
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Atlas and 2020-2024 Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The passenger occupant detection system (PODS) may experience a fault in the wiring and deactivate the front passenger air bag when the seat is occupied.
- Consequence: A deactivated passenger air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the PODS sensor mat and wiring harness, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 30, 2024, October 18, 2024, and December 31, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69PZ.
Latest negative Volkswagen Atlas car reviews
Latest positive Volkswagen Atlas car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2018
We traded in our '12 Jeep Grand Cherokee after experiencing too many reliability issues. We had been searching for an SUV with the latest safety technology, but all the other options we found were over our budget at $50k. Initially, I was hesitant about the Atlas due to it being the first model year and some reviews claiming it was slow. However, during the test drive, I was pleasantly surprised by how well it drove and didn't find it slow at all. After driving it for a few months now, I am still amazed by the difference between this generation of SUV and our beloved Jeep. The Atlas is smoother, quieter, and incredibly spacious. We chose the Atlas primarily for its safety features, space, and price. The Lane Keep Assist and ACC are amazing, and on the highway, it can essentially drive itself. While the interior is nice, I wouldn't call it luxurious, but that's okay since it's a family car that will inevitably get dirty with kids. The amount of room is impressive, with two adults fitting comfortably in the third row and an adult fitting comfortably in the middle seat of the second row, even with two car seats on the outsides. The factory sunscreens in the rear are also an underrated feature. Overall, the features, warranty, and price make the Atlas the best value in an overpriced SUV segment.
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Vehicle year: 2022
**UPDATE** Hi there! I've been the proud owner of my vehicle for over a year now and I still enjoy it just as much as the day I drove it off the lot. I've received prompt alerts about any recalls and updates, which has been really helpful. Something I've noticed recently is that whenever one of the tires has low air pressure, not only does it indicate with the usual symbol (!), but it also indicates which tire it is. How cool is that? I truly believe that the infotainment system is one of the best in its class. If you're waiting for a Telluride or Palisade to come in stock, I highly suggest you check out an Atlas. As someone who works with numbers as an analyst, I know that they tell a story, but not the whole story. Whether it's shoes, hats, or vehicles, the numeric value of the size by itself may still not be enough data to ultimately make a decision. Let me give you an example: I wear a size 12 shoe, but I can fit a small as a size 10 1/2 if the shoe has a wide design because my feet are wider than normal. I'm 6'4The Palisade has a really nice interior, which I find clean, simplistic, and functional. As a parent with two kids and a dog, I never have to worry about keeping it clean. The plastic doesn't feel or look cheap, except for the top parts of the inside door armrests. I'm not sure why VW did that. However, I'm not overly concerned about the plastic below the steering wheel since I'm not looking there. Everything is easy to access and navigate, and I don't want to feel like I'm studying for an exam to understand how to navigate the infotainment system or air system. The drive quality is amazing, and the wheel width of even the base model tires is wider than others in this segment. If you get the SEL Premium R-line like me, you have 21-inch tires, which no other SUV in the segment has. The road feel is incomparable, although you do give up some shock absorption, which, for me, is a viable trade-off. From a pound-for-pound value perspective, it's hard to put any other SUV against the Palisade and not feel impressed by it. I just love the asymmetrical look of the interior of the Atlas with the combination of German and American accents. However, I want to make sure I'm being subjective and acknowledge that the Telluride and Palisade are the best-selling SUVs for a reason.In this segment, Kia and Hyundai are the only SUVs that offer second-row ventilated seats at such an affordable price point. The Atlas, for instance, doesn't offer them at all. It's worth noting that Volkswagen has recently changed their warranty, so it's important to check on that. On the other hand, Hyundai has always been reliable with their warranties. The lift gate can only be closed by pushing the button on the gate itself, which may be a safety feature, but it would be more convenient if it could be closed by the key fob or the button on the driver's side door. Overall, if you're looking for a spacious SUV designed for larger individuals, the Atlas should definitely be on your shortlist. It performs well in all aspects. Although the gas mileage is a little misleading, I've been able to get around 23 MPG by driving in ECO mode, but it does affect acceleration.
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Vehicle year: 2022
The VW Atlas is an amazing car that I absolutely love! It has the perfect combination of roominess and luxury, thanks to its German engineering. The Atlas is so stylish that I can't help but admire it every time I see it. I have owned a Jeep Commander and a BMW X3 in the past, but neither of them even come close to the Atlas. I did a lot of research before deciding to test drive and ultimately purchase a brand new Atlas in December of 2020. Although I had read some reviews that mentioned horsepower being an issue, I have never felt that way. The Atlas is zippy for its size and incredibly smooth and quiet on the road. I can't recommend it enough - I plan on driving it forever!
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Vehicle year: 2024
We're so glad to hear that you got the Atas se tech package 2022! It's great to know that your wife loves it and that it works perfectly for your family of six. The size is just right and the trunk space is good enough for your needs. The panoramic roof is a nice touch and it's wonderful to hear that your kids love it too. It's great to know that the drive is smooth and the interior is fantastic.
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Vehicle year: 2019
I have to admit, I used to dislike minivans, but I've come to appreciate what they offer, even though they can feel a bit clunky to drive. When it came to finding a car for our family of four plus two dogs, I was looking for a sporty SUV with three rows that could accommodate my 6'4'' husband's long torso. We tried out several models, including the Audi, Honda, Toyota, Lexus, and Infiniti, but none of them seemed to fit the bill. That is, until we discovered the new Atlas. Not only did it feel like a German sports car when driving through traffic, but it was also incredibly comfortable, which is important for my 60-mile daily commute. We've even taken it on long car trips and it easily fit all of our luggage and my daughter's camp trunk. Plus, it can comfortably seat six kids and both my husband and me. The instrument panel is also conveniently located and easy to reach, unlike some of the other models we tried. The only downside is the small tank, which means filling up more frequently, but given all the other advantages, I can live with it. All in all, I absolutely love this car and would definitely buy it again.
Are you having problems with your Volkswagen Atlas?
Tristian Ondricka 2025-06-23
Vehicle year: 2018
I purchased the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas SE on August 19, 2017. Unfortunately, I experienced some issues with the car shortly after. Despite bringing it in for service, the problems persisted. I even reached out to VW Corporate for assistance, but the issues were not resolved. I decided to try a different dealership, but unfortunately, the problems still exist. I am disappointed with the experience I have had with this vehicle and VW, but I hope that my feedback can help others make informed decisions. Thank you for your time.Yes, the Atlas comes with a 6-year, 72,000-mile warranty. However, I had some issues with the service department not being able to address them properly, which made the warranty useless. I ended up selling my Atlas back to VW and purchasing a Honda Pilot, which has been serving my family well.
Kyle Witting 2025-06-23
Vehicle year: 2022
I've had my atlas for almost 2 years, so I'm pretty familiar with it. Let me start with the things I appreciate: it looks great, handles beautifully in snow/ice, has a very roomy interior and great cargo space. I have the package which includes remote start and heated everything, including the middle seats - highly recommended for a cold climate! However, there are a few things that drive me bananas and make me hate driving this car. The Apple CarPlay tech is glitchy and inconsistent - I have to reset it multiple times per week. I'm not sure if this is a VW or Apple issue, or if the problem is the two together, but it's ridiculous and should not be an issue at all. Additionally, the sensors that tell you you're about to hit something are incredibly overly sensitive. As in, when I come to an abrupt stop, they beep. If there is a snowflake within 6 feet, they beep. If I pull up next to a car at a light, they beep. I have asked and apparently there is no way to adjust or turn these off. Lastly, the new (I'm guessing cheaper) brake materials make your brakes sound like R2D2 - even when new (not needing to be replaced) and clean. It's worse when it's cold. I paid too much for this car to have brakes that sound like they're grinding. The VW dealership would not replace them without charging me. These cons may seem like they're not a big deal, but they really are very annoying when you drive day in and day out. Unfortunately, this will be my last VW purchase.
Carlo Hessel 2025-06-20
Vehicle year: 2018
We purchased our Atlas SE in June and initially had a positive experience. However, we later noticed issues with assembly, fuel mileage, and engine noises. Despite VW claiming that the Atlas gets 18/25 MPG, we have yet to get more than 11 MPG, even on short trips on the freeway. The dealer claims that this is normal because we primarily drive on city streets, but this explanation doesn't make sense to us. Additionally, we have noticed several issues with the vehicle's alignment, including misaligned headlights, liftgate, hood, and door panel armrest. We have also experienced noise during acceleration and when turning off the motor. Despite bringing these issues to the dealership's attention, they have not been able to provide a satisfactory solution. As paying customers, we expected the vehicle to be assembled properly and are disappointed with the craftsmanship. We have contacted Volkswagen corporate to address these issues.I was informed that the issues I am experiencing are within normal levels and unfortunately, they do not plan to take any action. I requested a change of vehicles because I noticed that the newer models are nearly flawless in terms of craftsmanship. The bodylines and lights are straight and aligned, but they stated that since the flaws on my particular vehicle are at an acceptable level, they will not exchange vehicles. They are blaming the fuel mileage problem on my driving habits, but I have installed a dash cam that records every time I start the vehicle, which proves that it's not my driving habits. I am not hard on the accelerator or the brakes, yet I am still only getting 13 miles to the gallon, even though I am driving on both freeways and streets. Due to this, I have decided not to return for another Volkswagen. I will complete the term of my lease and return the vehicle to them. Although this is my fourth Volkswagen since 2013, I am still an unhappy customer. They are not standing behind their work, so I will not give them any more of my money.
Morris Kuphal 2025-06-19
Vehicle year: 2019
We have owned our 2019 Atlas SE w/Tech 4 motion v6 rline for 13 months and 35k miles. Although we were initially drawn to this car because of the 72k warranty (now 50k on 2020 models), we have unfortunately had to use it quite frequently. On the positive side, the ride quality is great, with a smooth ride and good visibility. The interior layout is also well-designed, with a spacious third row. However, we have experienced some issues with the quality of the car, which makes us question its longevity. We have had to take it to the shop 7 times in the past 12 months for various issues, including replacing both front sway bar links in suspension before 20k miles, replacing the rear climate control screen, replacing the seat belt buckle in the middle row, replacing the push button start due to inconsistent starting, and dealing with a torque converter that makes a loud grinding noise in low gears. VW acknowledges this issue but deflects it as 'normal'. We have also had to take the car in 3 times for coolant issues, with either the warning light on or a smell of coolant when the car is on. Although there has been no remedy yet, the dealer just tore the entire engine apart and replaced every seal and gasket. We had warped cylinder heads and an oil leak around the filter due to coolant leaking into the cylinder heads. This would have been over $12k out of pocket with no warranty! It's a pretty large and ridiculous repair for an issue we were told didn't exist for 2 months. The Service Manager mentioned he has another Atlas in for the same reason and has recommended to VW Corp to look into this because he believes it is a true design issue. Despite all these issues, we remain hopeful that VW will address these problems and improve the quality of their cars.
Sammie Kozey 2025-06-17
Vehicle year: 2021
I really enjoy VW products, but unfortunately, this particular car model has a bulky front. Additionally, we had a negative experience with the dealers which led us to cancel our purchase. We were looking for a dark green car with brown interior and specific options, but unfortunately, none of the dealers were willing to order the car for us. Instead, they were focused on selling us a car from their inventory. Furthermore, the advertised VW special financing did not apply to the car we wanted. Despite having excellent credit and planning to pay in cash, we were unable to proceed with the purchase. This was a disappointing experience for us and we hope that VW will work on improving their dealerships to increase sales.