Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 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 cross sport model years
Common Volkswagen Atlas cross sport problems
The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is a two-row SUV with a focus on providing space, road presence, and a familiar badge at a competitive price. It has been designed with the unique requirements of North American families in mind, offering plenty of scale at an affordable price. The 2024 Atlas Cross Sport is available from $36,715, which is lower than the average price for a new, non-luxury vehicle in the U.S.
However, the Atlas Cross Sport has been criticized for not being engaging enough from behind the wheel or distinctive enough in its features to eclipse its competitors, such as the Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, Honda Pilot, and Mazda CX-90. The new Atlas is good, but it may not be memorable until Volkswagen's fully electric options are available.
One of the most common problems with the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is its reliability. Consumer Reports predicts that the 2024 Atlas Cross Sport will be less reliable than other new cars based on limited data from the Atlas Cross Sport and the Volkswagen brand scores. The reliability data is obtained from a questionnaire sent to subscribers, asking them to note any problems with their cars that occurred in the past 12 months. A typical model has about 200 to 400 samples for each model year.
Another issue with the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is a recall campaign for some of its SUVs due to a potentially catastrophic engine problem. Contaminants on engine rod bearings could damage the oiling circuit, leading to wear and damage inside the engine and eventually a catastrophic failure. The recall impacts 1,323 Atlas SUVs and 695 Atlas Cross Sports built between June 16 and July 25 of this year. Volkswagen expects only about 2% of those 2,018 vehicles will have a problem. However, considering the engines can completely fail, resulting in less of oil containment and even a fire, this is a issue worth addressing quickly.
In summary, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport has been criticized for not being engaging enough from behind the wheel or distinctive enough in its features to eclipse its competitors. The new Atlas is good, but it may not be memorable until Volkswagen's fully electric options are available. Additionally, the Atlas Cross Sport has been predicted to be less reliable than other new cars based on limited data from the Atlas Cross Sport and the Volkswagen brand scores. Lastly, there is a recall campaign for some of its SUVs due to a potentially catastrophic engine problem.
What is the problem with the VW Atlas Cross Sport?
Volkswagen's 2024 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport Recalled Due to Potential Engine Issues. Who: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. Why: The Volkswagen vehicles are recalled due to potentially damaged connecting rods that may lead to an oil leak, resulting in a vehicle fire. When: The recall was issued on August 25, 2023.
Does the VW Atlas have engine problems?
ENGINE & FUEL SYSTEM
Many Atlas owners have also complained about the check engine light illuminating randomly. Other common problems include engine stalling caused by a fuel system leak which increases the chance of fire risk.
Is Atlas reliable or unreliable?
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.
Are Volkswagen Cross Sport reliable?
We expect the 2024 Atlas Cross Sport to be less reliable than other new cars. This prediction is based on limited data from the Atlas Cross Sport, plus the Volkswagen brand scores.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Volkswagen Atlas cross sport years
We have researched Volkswagen problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Volkswagen Atlas cross sport cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Volkswagen Atlas cross sport model years:
- Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2021
- Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2020
- Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2022
- Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2024
- Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2023
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Volkswagen Atlas cross sport model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Volkswagen Atlas cross sport years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Volkswagen Atlas cross sport , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
- Air bags problems
- Forward collision avoidance problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Volkswagen Atlas cross sport vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Atlas cross sport model years
A total of 12 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 cross sport 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 cross sport model years
There were a total of 9 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 266 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Volkswagen Atlas cross sport . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Volkswagen Atlas cross sport vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 1V2GC2CA6MC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The recall has been an ongoing issue; since I am from a smaller valley, Imperial Valley, my dealership has not been able to provide the parts for the repair, this is a major recall seeing as the passenger seat airbag may not deploy. I see no urgency to repair and no customer care. I personally have had to call the dealership asking for updates multiple times and no one is able to assist with the repair due to not having parts. I use my vehicle to rent on the TURO app and this has held up part of my income due to not being able to list the vehicle due to the safety concern. A prompt response or repair would greatly be appreciated from the dealer if they truly car about the safety of their customers.
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1V2JE2CA1RC
- Components: PARKING BRAKE,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. The contact stated that after pressing the engine Start/Stop button to start the vehicle in the driveway, she exited the vehicle and sat in the front passenger's seat. After 4-5 minutes, the vehicle inadvertently rolled backward while the transmission was in park (P). No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle rolled over her daughter's left knee before stopping at the end of the driveway. Additionally, the "Error: Drive System. Please Service Vehicle" message was previously displayed while driving, and the parking brake was inoperable. The police arrived on the scene and filed a report. The contact's daughter received medical treatment at the hospital for knee pain and tire scratches on her right knee and feet. The dealer was made aware of the failure and scheduled an upcoming appointment for diagnosis. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 21,350.
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
- VIN: 1V2KE2CA7RC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: When pushing the gas car will not accelerate then they’ll be like a big “clunk” like it’s not into gear and then the car will slow slowly accelerate then it’ll shoot off. Also my screen goes crazy like something electrical is happening .
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-08
- VIN: 1V2DC2CA6NC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the crankcase ventilation valve had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 51,346.
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 1V2AE2CAXRC
- Components: POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: To the best of my knowledge, the transmission failed to function appropriately causing danger. After pulling onto a major highway, the car stopped in front of oncoming traffic and the rpm’s shot up. After letting off the gas and pressing again, the car then shifted and was able to drive. This happened after several instances of delayed shifting noted but this is the first time it has stalled out while driving. Stalling on a major highway puts me and others at risk of crashing if I am unable to move my vehicle suddenly. No warning lamps were present then or now. According to my owners manual, I am to alert the NHTSA and Volkswagen. My next step is to reach out to Volkswagen.
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-05
- VIN: 1V2ME2CA1LC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: At a stop or slow speed the vehicle stalls. Acted like the start stop feature was engaging. Stalling out crossing lanes of traffic you have to out it in park and restart. Start stop feature is disabled but dangerous to stall in traffic this way
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-01
- VIN: 1V2HE2CA7RC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Dear National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, I am writing to express my frustration with the ongoing issues with my Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. Despite repeated repair efforts, the situation has become unsustainable. As a one-car household, visiting the dealership multiple times a month is both financially and personally stressful. While the service department has been excellent in trying to address the problems, the recurring issues are straining my relationship with the dealership. I need a reliable vehicle, especially given the $19,000 down payment we cannot afford to lose. We chose the SE model for ethical reasons (no leather), but it has been problematic, and we are now open to other solutions. Here is a list of issues we’ve encountered over the last 10 months: Atlas Number 1 (2 months): Loose exhaust shield Auto Start/Stop feature not functioning Start button unresponsive Rear windows would not close Infotainment system freezing Dashboard speaker grill falling off Rattle in rear door Atlas Number 2 (7 months): Front bumper damaged; required body shop repair Driver's window scratched and replaced Front parking sensors failed Windows malfunction and don’t auto close Infotainment system freezing; display going black Console cover broke twice Headlights repeatedly replaced, failing calibration Backup camera feed going black; needed replacement Headlight control module needed replacement Rattle in front door Dashboard speaker grill falling off Persistent front-end shake at highway speeds (tires rebalanced twice) Steering-responsive headlights fail to return to center, requiring a vehicle restart Recent repairs haven’t resolved these issues. The headlights still fail to center, the infotainment system continues to go black, and the backup camera still malfunctions. A software update is expected in January, but I need a solution in the meantime. Please help us resolve this situation—it's financially and practically unsustainable.
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-24
- VIN: 1V2GC2CA1LC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 63,000.
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-29
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-24
- VIN: 1V2JE2CA5MC
- Components: AIR BAGS,TIRES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. The contact stated that the TPMS warning light illuminated and turned on and off. The contact inflated the tires. 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 not contacted. 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 failure mileage was unknown. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-21
- VIN: 1V26E2CA2LC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Airbag front passenger side has defect will not deploy. The dashboard light alert is on, as per dealership review stated airbag defect will not deploy and needs to be replaced. Car has never used airbag. Other same vehicles have been recalled but this batch of atlas cross sport suvs were not included.
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-16
- VIN: 1V2FE2CA6PC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2023 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V464000 (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. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-16
- VIN: 1V2KE2CA0NC
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: This vehicle is burning excessive engine oil. My vehicle required two quarts of oil before my oil change. This occurred at the 20,000-mile interval and again at 30,000 miles. This vehicle also had two coolant repairs before 30,000 miles. The car has not been in any accidents. The vehicle had no oil.
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-12
- VIN: 1V2SE2CA5NC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: There is a recall on my airbags in my vehicle. Volkswagen dealership states they do not have the remedy to this issue currently and do not know when it will be available. They also would not offer a rental car for the safety risk. This is putting my life and any other passengers at a high safety risk!
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-08
- VIN: 1V2FE2CA7MC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: -Engine and yes. -Safety put at risk due to car not on when the street light turn green and I'm not aware that the car had turned off. -No -Message appeared on the dashboard stating Engine will shut off automatically to conserve battery.
Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-06
- VIN: 1V21E2CAXLC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Air bag light illuminated. VIN number not associated with current air bag recall even though it is exhibiting the very identical problem. Dealer will not acknowledge the recall since the VIN doesn’t show on the recall site.
Latest 5 recalls Volkswagen Atlas cross sport
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 41 recalls for different components of the Volkswagen Atlas cross sport.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Volkswagen Atlas cross sport 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 cross sport 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 cross sport 2022
- 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 cross sport 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 cross sport 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 cross sport car reviews
Latest positive Volkswagen Atlas cross sport car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2023
The vehicle has amazing technology, including an 8.0-inch touchscreen and Bluetooth that works flawlessly. The styling is beautiful, with 20-inch alloy wheels and LED headlights/taillights. It also has adaptive cruise control with automatic braking, parking sensors for both front and back, and lane departure and assist features that are fabulous. Additionally, the vehicle is very spacious. Overall, it's a great vehicle, although it could use a bit more pep.
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Vehicle year: 2024
Completely satisfied! I love the stylish interior. The 4 CYL Turbo is very responsive.
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Vehicle year: 2023
I brought the Cross Sport simply because at 6’8 tall there were no other two row SUV’s I could fit in. The car rides nice and has adequate power for a turbo 4. I love all the technology and it’s pretty easy to learn how everything works. My only complaint is the radio. I think VW should’ve made the Fender audio an option. I love my music and the radio is below average. Other than that, I would highly recommend this car.
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Vehicle year: 2023
Love my Red Cross Sport! Amazing interior, great drive and ride and looks absolutely fabulous!!!
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Vehicle year: 2021
Beautiful design. The Atlas Cross Sport is surprisingly nimble and quick, despite not being a race car or off-road vehicle. As an SUV designed for the street, it's one of my favourite vehicles I've ever owned. Volkswagen really hit it out of the park with this one!
Are you having problems with your Volkswagen Atlas cross sport?
Nickolas Feil 2024-11-11
Vehicle year: 2024
That car has been in the garage many times. Four times for a board in the door that they did not find at first, and then a piston that took two days in the garage. When I was on my way to Florida, I did not receive any reimbursement for expensive hotels/meals. The car runs nicely above 30 miles speed, but below that, shifting is weird. I will never buy a VW again. The service was terrible, but riding it is okay, not great.
Jamaal Leuschke 2024-11-09
Vehicle year: 2023
I leased the 4-cylinder turbo SE with tech package, but unfortunately it does not come with a memory seat option. After less than a year and only about 9000 miles, I noticed that the brakes started making a grinding noise with any level of moisture on the pad. When I brought it to the dealership, they said there was nothing to be done because the pads were still new. The ride quality is also a bit jerky, which can be disturbing when going over any irregular surface. However, the vehicle does provide a safe feeling from inside due to its size and thick sheet metal. The only downside is that I cannot wait to turn it in at the end of the lease. Lastly, I noticed that the passenger side wiper arm angle is wrong, which causes even a brand new wiper blade to stutter when going up. Although the dealership said the angle was fine, I hope they can fix it soon.
Monserrate Kessler 2024-11-01
Vehicle year: 2024
I'll skip the 'admiration' part of the vehicle description. We purchased our vehicle brand new from a dealership in Canada and it ran smoothly for the first 5,000 km. However, we've had a few issues since then. The media system has been malfunctioning, the plastic part over the driver's head rattles, the brakes are defective, the outside sensors are malfunctioning, and the outside mirror squeaks. Every time we bring these issues to the dealer's attention, they request that we 'replicate' the issue according to VW requirements, which has resulted in us spending hours in the dealership waiting room. Hopefully, they will improve their service in the future.
Allan Mayer 2024-10-12
Vehicle year: 2022
That car has been in the garage many times. Four times for a board in the door that they did not find at first, and then a piston that took two days in the garage. When I was on my way to Florida, I did not receive any reimbursement for expensive hotels/meals. The car runs nicely above 30 miles speed, but below that, shifting is weird. I will never buy a VW again. The service was terrible, but riding it is okay, not great.
Jaleel Cormier 2024-10-07
Vehicle year: 2020
I've owned my Atlas for a couple of years and it was just okay. Although it was loaded with all the extras, I had to take it in for recalls and software updates frequently. While the dealership tried to take care of it, I felt like it was one thing after another. The last recall I received was that the side airbags were not working in front, so at that point, I decided to get a new car. Lately, German cars have been a disappointment. I would give it 3 out of 5 stars.