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Model-year record

2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
Image: Own work · CC BY-SA 4.0

2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.

This page shows records, not a buy or avoid call.

The same model year can include a well-kept car and a neglected one. Use these records to plan what to check. Use the specific-car check when you know the mileage.

Complaints filed

100

Reports to NHTSA, 2020

Safety recalls

11

NHTSA campaigns on record

NHTSA crash test

Overall NCAP rating

Combined MPG

20.5

EPA estimate

Known issues

Electrical System issues lead owner complaints (31% of 100 reports), followed by air bags (16%).

Electrical System31% · 31 reports
Air Bags16% · 16 reports
Unknown Or Other11% · 11 reports
Steering7% · 7 reports
Engine5% · 5 reports
Vehicle Speed Control5% · 5 reports
Exterior Lighting4% · 4 reports
Forward Collision Avoidance3% · 3 reports

+ 10 more component categories with fewer reports.

Share of all 100 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11730429, ODI 11705501, ODI 11607312, ODI 11603191, ODI 11587574.

Individual complaint reports(100)

Showing the 50 most recent reports
Unknown Or OtherJul 2026 · ODI 11751820Details +

sunroof shattered while driving down the freeway

Reported
Jul 2026
Incident date
Jul 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11751820 at NHTSA →
Chest ClipJun 2026 · ODI 11742314Details +

We purchased a Chicco Fit360 car seat approximately two weeks ago. During normal use, we discovered that the magnetic chest clip/latch on the 5-point harness can appear to be connected but is not always mechanically latched. If the two halves of the magnetic chest clip are brought together lightly/loosely, the magnets pull the clip together and it appears closed, but the latch can separate without pressing the release buttons. The issue appears to be with the magnetic chest clip/chest latch portion of the harness system. This creates a safety concern because the chest clip may appear secured when it is not actually locked. If this occurred during driving or a crash, the harness straps may not remain properly positioned on the child’s chest/shoulders, which could reduce the effectiveness of the restraint system and increase the risk of injury or ejection. The clip seems to connect correctly most of the time when clipped deliberately, but it can fail when loosely clipped, which is concerning because a caregiver may reasonably believe the chest clip is secured due to the magnetic connection. The car seat/component is available for inspection upon request. We contacted Chicco customer service and reported the issue. Chicco stated they are sending a replacement magnetic chest clip and indicated that the replacement should fix the issue. Chicco has not physically inspected the seat or the original chest clip at this time. The seat has not been inspected by police, insurance, or any other third party. No crash or injury has occurred. The cause is UNKNOWN, but based on observation, the failure appears to involve the magnetic chest clip giving the appearance of being closed without the mechanical latch fully engaging.

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
Jun 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11742314 at NHTSA →
Air BagsJun 2026 · ODI 11741261Details +

The contact owns a 2020 Volkswagen. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the airbag warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with an error code associated with the airbag. The vehicle was repaired at the consumer expense. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 53,200.

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11741261 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingMay 2026 · ODI 11737656Details +

Both day time running lights failed right after warranty expired. This repair requires over 2300$ repair because both entire headlights need to be replaced. This is a frequent problem that VW is aware yet refuses to rectify. It cause my vehicle to be less visible because of aporr design by VW.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
Jan 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11737656 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingApr 2026 · ODI 11732107Details +

Fuel pump failed Daytime running light failure Broken hood latch

Reported
Apr 2026
Incident date
Mar 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11732107 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingApr 2026 · ODI 11731274Details +

Premature failure of left drivers side LED Daytime Running Light.

Reported
Apr 2026
Incident date
Dec 1969
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11731274 at NHTSA →
Air BagsApr 2026 · ODI 11730349Details +

On 4/6 - My car alert system flashed the following; Still present, Called VW Dealership. Customer Care & Checked for recalls via VIN number. Airbag Error ( message on dashboard) Passenger Airbag (Message /light -automatically turned off airbags) Passanger airbag sensor flashes then turns solid. Safety recall for VW Atlas, certain vin numbers. No active recall for mine. (confirmed via VIA VW website, dealership & VW Customer Care) This puts my family at risk of airbags not deploying properly in emergency situations.

Reported
Apr 2026
Incident date
Apr 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11730349 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemApr 2026 · ODI 11730429Details +

While driving, the vehicle experiences intermittent electrical malfunctions affecting multiple systems. The door locks cycle repeatedly, windows roll down on their own, and when attempting to roll the windows back up, they immediately roll back down. The dashboard lights flicker, become extremely bright, and at times go out completely. The central display (including Apple CarPlay) also shuts off entirely. Multiple warning alerts appear, including emergency brake warnings. These failures occur while the vehicle is in motion and create a safety risk due to loss of system visibility, inability to control vehicle functions, and unexpected vehicle behavior. The vehicle was initially taken to an independent repair shop due to these issues, where I was informed of Recall 97GF (wiring harness issue), which is associated with the same electrical failures. The vehicle was then taken to a dealership for recall service. The dealership retained the vehicle for approximately one week and advised that the repair resolved the issue. The vehicle operated normally for approximately three weeks following the repair. However, on or about [XXX], the same electrical issues reoccurred. The vehicle was returned to the dealership on February 20th, where it remained in service for over 45 days. Despite multiple repair attempts and extended time in service, the issue was not resolved and continues to occur. The dealership has indicated that the recall procedure was completed, but the original condition persists. The issue was also escalated directly to Volkswagen of America through a customer care case. The manufacturer reviewed the situation and stated that the recall procedure had been completed and the condition was no longer considered related to the recall. The case was subsequently closed without resolution, and the vehicle continues to experience the same electrical failures. Video of issue: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
Apr 2026
Incident date
Jan 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11730429 at NHTSA →
StructureFeb 2026 · ODI 11718465Details +

February 2025, just outside the warranty period, the hood latch had become disconnected/broken under the hood. There is a point where the two piece cable is joined under the hood and the cable breaks at this point. There is an obvious defect in the hood latch system and puts drivers at risk as the hood cannot be opened if needed possibly stranding a driver on the road with a non-functioning vehicle and no way to assess or repair the issue. Think low oil, overheating engine, no wiper fluid, fuse blown, no way to assess the issue. This is a common problem as found in internet forums. Many complaints have been filed with the NHTSA see campaign numbers 11693537, 11691685, 11681799, 11648046, 11630017. The fix involves removing the left front tire, removing the wheel well trim and and under fender skirting (25+ torx head screws), locating and opening cable junction box in the engine compartment from under the wheel well and pulling the cable with pliers to open the hood. The broken cable has to be removed by removing two interior panels inside the car cabin and pulling cable and grommet out. Then fishing replacement cable back through firewall into channel and up to the cable junction box. This is a 2-3 hour process. Cost is in excess of $500-700 at most dealers. The replacement cable is of the same design, so likely to also fail at some point. There should not be so many failures of a part that is only used 3-5 times per year.

Reported
Feb 2026
Incident date
Feb 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11718465 at NHTSA →
EngineJan 2026 · ODI 11710602Details +

I purchased a new 2020 Atlas Cross Sport in 2020. The car currently has 108,000 miles. In the time I have owned the car I have had to replace the heater core THREE times. The heater core has failed once again and I must replace it a FOURTH time. The dealer (Nucar, Norwood, MA) nor VW will admit the defect and I must pay $1000.00 to replace the defective part. This part is obviously defective. I want nothing more than to have the part replaced with a quality VW replacement part. I would also recommend that your organization investigate VW for a parts issue that is impacting many VW owners.

Reported
Jan 2026
Incident date
Jan 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11710602 at NHTSA →
Forward Collision AvoidanceJan 2026 · ODI 11708699Details +

While traveling south on Wheeler Road at the underpass of the Long Island Expressway my 2020 Volkswagon Atlas Cross Sport's emergency braking system gets activated. This has happened multiple times at approximatly 12:20 AM while heading home from work. I took the car to the dealer but the dealer said there was no way to check what happened unless the diagnostic machine was connected at the time it happened. Again, this has happened multiple times, the most recent being both January second and the third. There is no reason why this happenes as it is dark and not a sunglare issue, therei s no change of lighting, no pavement changes or obstructions, and no traffic in front of me. When this happens it scares the hell out of me because there isnt any reason why I would expect it to happen thus creating a bit of a dangerous situation for me. Maybe others have reported the same issue to you that you did or could look into the cause of this, possible a radar or broadcast system that could be the cause of the sensor activation so maybe the issue can get corrected and prevent it from happening again. Thank You for any help you can provide. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
Jan 2026
Incident date
Jan 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11708699 at NHTSA →
Air BagsDec 2025 · ODI 11707747Details +

The warning light came on signaling an airbag problem. The dealer checked all the wires and connections and determined there must be a problem with vehemently airbag itself and they said it should be replaced.

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Dec 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11707747 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemDec 2025 · ODI 11706258Details +

GAS TANK SEAL FAILED CAUSING COLLAPSE OF GAS TANK AND DAMAGE TO FUEL PUMP. SIMILAR PROBLEM IN OTHER VOLKSWAGON VEHICLES SUCH AS JETTA AND GOLF THAT HAD RECALL IN PAST. VOLKSWAGON COSTUMER SERVICE WAS NOTIFIED, BE FAILED TO OFFER REPAIR COVERAGE DUE TO FACT I HAD THE OIL CHANGED AT A NON VOLKSWAGON SERVICE CENTER. NO WORK WAS DONE ON FUEL SYSTEM OUTSIDE OF OFFICIAL VOLKSWAGON DEALERSHIP.

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Dec 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11706258 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemDec 2025 · ODI 11705501Details +

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

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Nov 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11705501 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesNov 2025 · ODI 11698953Details +

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

Reported
Nov 2025
Incident date
Nov 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11698953 at NHTSA →
Vehicle Speed ControlOct 2025 · ODI 11696774 · crashDetails +

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

Reported
Oct 2025
Incident date
Sep 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 11696774 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherOct 2025 · ODI 11693537Details +

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

Reported
Oct 2025
Incident date
Oct 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11693537 at NHTSA →
StructureOct 2025 · ODI 11691685Details +

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

Reported
Oct 2025
Incident date
Oct 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11691685 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherAug 2025 · ODI 11681799Details +

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

Reported
Aug 2025
Incident date
Aug 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11681799 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherAug 2025 · ODI 11681281Details +

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

Reported
Aug 2025
Incident date
Aug 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11681281 at NHTSA →
SuspensionAug 2025 · ODI 11677699Details +

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

Reported
Aug 2025
Incident date
Jul 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11677699 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherMar 2025 · ODI 11648002Details +

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

Reported
Mar 2025
Incident date
Jul 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11648002 at NHTSA →
Air BagsFeb 2025 · ODI 11645232Details +

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

Reported
Feb 2025
Incident date
Feb 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11645232 at NHTSA →
SteeringFeb 2025 · ODI 11644328Details +

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

Reported
Feb 2025
Incident date
Feb 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11644328 at NHTSA →
SteeringJan 2025 · ODI 11639317Details +

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

Reported
Jan 2025
Incident date
Jan 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11639317 at NHTSA →
StructureDec 2024 · ODI 11630017Details +

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

Reported
Dec 2024
Incident date
Nov 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11630017 at NHTSA →
Air BagsNov 2024 · ODI 11626753Details +

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

Reported
Nov 2024
Incident date
Nov 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11626753 at NHTSA →
Vehicle Speed ControlNov 2024 · ODI 11626449Details +

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

Reported
Nov 2024
Incident date
Nov 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11626449 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingNov 2024 · ODI 11623689Details +

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

Reported
Nov 2024
Incident date
Nov 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11623689 at NHTSA →
EngineOct 2024 · ODI 11618215Details +

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

Reported
Oct 2024
Incident date
Oct 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11618215 at NHTSA →
Air BagsSep 2024 · ODI 11616197Details +

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.

Reported
Sep 2024
Incident date
Sep 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11616197 at NHTSA →
Air BagsSep 2024 · ODI 11615736Details +

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.

Reported
Sep 2024
Incident date
Aug 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11615736 at NHTSA →
Air BagsSep 2024 · ODI 11613024Details +

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.

Reported
Sep 2024
Incident date
Aug 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11613024 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemAug 2024 · ODI 11611939Details +

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

Reported
Aug 2024
Incident date
May 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11611939 at NHTSA →
Air BagsAug 2024 · ODI 11611341Details +

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The driver side curtain airbag needed to be replaced with no accident or incident. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The driver side curtain airbag of my car that my child and I sit on would have not deployed. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Service center has confirmed it is not working and performing necessary repairs. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? Only VW authorized service center. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? There was an airbag error that appeared less than one week ago.

Reported
Aug 2024
Incident date
Aug 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11611341 at NHTSA →
Air BagsAug 2024 · ODI 11608131Details +

There have been wide reports that 2020 atlas cross sports passenger airbag sensors malfunction. My vehicle has experienced this very problem. The airbag warning indicator came up on my dashboard indicating a problem. When someone sits in the passenger seat the air bag does not turn on. When I enter my vehicle VIN to look at recalls it says 0. But this is untrue as my car is a 2020 atlas cross sport. The years need to be updated as this affects many many more vehicles. Huge safety problem that needs to be addressed now

Reported
Aug 2024
Incident date
Aug 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11608131 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemAug 2024 · ODI 11607312Details +

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

Reported
Aug 2024
Incident date
Aug 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11607312 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJul 2024 · ODI 11603191Details +

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

Reported
Jul 2024
Incident date
Jun 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11603191 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherJul 2024 · ODI 11598694Details +

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

Reported
Jul 2024
Incident date
Jun 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11598694 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJun 2024 · ODI 11595220Details +

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

Reported
Jun 2024
Incident date
May 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11595220 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMay 2024 · ODI 11587574Details +

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

Reported
May 2024
Incident date
Oct 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11587574 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherApr 2024 · ODI 11585542Details +

I having issues the the CarPlay gps. Only happens with my BW cross sport. The gps 20% of the time will not know where it is. It drifts off from where it is suppose to be.

Reported
Apr 2024
Incident date
Apr 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11585542 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMar 2024 · ODI 11579847Details +

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

Reported
Mar 2024
Incident date
Mar 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11579847 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMar 2024 · ODI 11579757Details +

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

Reported
Mar 2024
Incident date
Mar 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11579757 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherMar 2024 · ODI 11577730Details +

The GPS system will not work in the vehicle that includes the built in GPS navigation, Apple Maps, Google Maps and WAZE GPS. This is a major safety issue because you cannot drive safely and look at maps. This problem is effecting hundreds of VWs and they do not have a solution.

Reported
Mar 2024
Incident date
Dec 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11577730 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesMar 2024 · ODI 11575657Details +

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

Reported
Mar 2024
Incident date
Mar 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11575657 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemFeb 2024 · ODI 11570964Details +

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

Reported
Feb 2024
Incident date
Sep 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11570964 at NHTSA →
Air BagsFeb 2024 · ODI 11570683Details +

Airbag warning light on

Reported
Feb 2024
Incident date
Feb 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11570683 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemDec 2023 · ODI 11558349Details +

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

Reported
Dec 2023
Incident date
Dec 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11558349 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemNov 2023 · ODI 11556585Details +

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

Reported
Nov 2023
Incident date
Aug 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11556585 at NHTSA →

This page shows the latest 50 reports to keep it usable. The count above includes every complaint NHTSA has returned for this model year.

Recalls(11)

Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.

Exterior Lighting · 20V504000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2020 Atlas Cross Sports and 2021 Atlas vehicles. The driver's side headlight may have been aimed too low during production. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

Risk: A headlight aimed incorrectly aimed reduces the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will adjust the driver's side headlight, free of charge. The recall began September 9, 2020. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 94N7.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Seats · 20V505000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen ) is recalling certain 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, Jetta, Jetta GLI and Tiguan and Audi Q5 and SQ5 and 2021 Volkswagen Atlas vehicles. Parts of the front seat frame and backrest adjuster may not have been welded properly.

Risk: In the event of a rear-end crash, the backrest adjustment could break, possibly reducing the amount of occupant restraint, thus increasing risk of injury.

Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front seats, and, as necessary, replace the seatback frames, free of charge. The recall began September 11, 2020. Volkswagen owners may contact their customer service at 1-888-241-2289. Audi owners may contact their customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are 72L1, 72K8, and 72K9.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Tires · 20V702000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Atlas Cross Sport and 2021 Atlas vehicles equipped with Continental Cross Contact LX Sport tires, size 255/50 R 20 105 T. The tires may have been over cured.

Risk: Over cured tires can result in a sidewall break causing a sudden loss of air pressure or the tread separating from the tire. Both conditions increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect DOT date code and mold number on the vehicle's tires to see if they are affected, replacing them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 30, 2020. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 44Q5.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Steering · 20V712000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Atlas and 2020-2021 Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. One or both steering knuckles may have been damaged during production.

Risk: A damaged steering knuckle can fail, causing a loss of steering, thereby increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Volkswagen has notified owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, replace the steering knuckle, free of charge. The recall began November 19, 2020. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 40Q6. Note: Owners are advised to DO NOT DRIVE the vehicle until the vehicle has been inspected and repaired if necessary.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Steering · 21V026000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Atlas and 2020-2021 Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The front steering knuckle may fracture in the area of the strut mounting.

Risk: A fractured steering knuckle can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, replace one or both steering knuckles, free of charge. The recall began February 16, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 40Q7.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Visibility · 21V892000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Atlas and 2020-2021 Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The air conditioning system drain tube could be blocked, causing water to leak inside the vehicle near the air bag control module.

Risk: A water leak may damage the air bag control module, causing an inadvertent air bag deployment and increasing the risk of injury or a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will repair the drain tube and replace the air bag control module, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 14, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 87H4.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Equipment · 22V086000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Atlas and 2020-2021 Atlas Cross Sport vehicles equipped with accessory side steps. The reduced Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) label, reflecting the additional weight of the side steps, was not installed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."

Risk: Without the reduced GVWR label, the vehicle could be overloaded, leading to a loss of control and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will install the reduced GVWR label, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 31, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 09D9.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Air Bags · 22V152000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Atlas, 2020-2023 Atlas Cross Sport, and 2021-2023 Atlas FL vehicles. The door wiring harness electrical contacts may corrode, disrupting the electrical connection and delaying the deployment of the driver or passenger front side air bag during a side impact crash.

Risk: A delayed air bag deployment can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy: Dealers will secure and, as necessary, replace any the front door wiring harnesses showing a fault code, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 20, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 97GF.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Tires · 22V815000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan LWB, Golf Sportswagen A7, Golf Alltrack, Golf R GP, Audi Q3, Audi A3 Cabriolet, 2019-2020 Jetta NF, Jetta GLI, Golf GTI, Atlas, Golf A7, Audi A3, 2020-2021 Atlas Cross Sport, and 2021 Atlas FL vehicles. The tire pressure monitoring system may not detect an air pressure loss in adequate time when deflating occurs among all four tires simultaneously. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."

Risk: An undetected sudden loss of pressure in all four tires increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will update the TPMS software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 18, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audi’s customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are (Audi) 45J7, and (VW) 45J6 and 45J8.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Air Bags · 23V215000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Atlas and 2020 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.

Risk: 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 March 22, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69FB.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Air Bags · 24V464000Details +

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.

Risk: 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. Owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, on October 18, 2024, December 10, 2024, December 20, 2024, and January 17, 2025. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69PZ.

Open full NHTSA recall record →

A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.

Investigations

1 NHTSA investigation on record

Investigations are agency reviews, not findings that a vehicle is defective.

Fuel Injector Leak

On March 29, 2021, the Office of Defects Investigations (ODI) opened PE21-008 to investigate instances of fuel injectors leaking in the engine compartment in model year (MY) 2018 through 2020 Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport SUVs. These vehicles are equipped with either a 3.6 or 2.0 liter engine. The subject investigation concerns vehicles equipped with 3.6L engines. Prior to opening the investigation, ODI also observed that warranty data for the fuel system from TREAD reporting was an outlier for the MY 2018 Atlas.The allegation involved fuel injectors leaking fuel near engine compartment components that operate at high temperatures. Consumers allege a fuel leak, fuel odor, and/or an illuminated check engine malfunction indicator light (MIL) on that alerts them to the condition. Fuel leaking in the engine compartment has a higher potential risk of fire as nearby components are operating at higher temperatures compared to other areas of the vehicle. No fires have been connected to this issue to date.The 3.6L engine is a VR6 type engine. Due to its specific design, the VR6 has two types of injectors with different designs installed. Cylinders 1, 3, and 5 use long injectors and cylinders 2, 4, and 6 use short injectors. Unlike the short injectors, the long injectors require an extension pipe necessary to reach cylinders 1, 3, and 5. Volkswagen stated that the potential root cause for a leaking injector is typically either a damaged, misaligned, or missing supporting ring or a damaged O-ring. These rings assist in connecting the injector to the extension pipe. If one of these conditions is present in a vehicle, the O-ring has difficulty withstanding fuel pressure over time.Volkswagen stated that an analysis of warranty data related to leaking injectors in vehicles equipped with 3.6L engines showed that the vast majority of leaking allegations were related to internal leaks. Fuel can leak into the cylinder causing misfiring in the affected cylinders. This condition would not cause fuel to enter into the engine compartment. Volkswagen states that these internal leaks pose no unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety.Analysis of all relevant data indicates that the subject condition is an early-life failure with a relatively low failure rate. The average failure mileage calculated from all data sources was determined to be approximately 14,000 miles. Only two failures were reported outside of the vehicles' warranty coverage period. The average time to failure for the subject vehicle population is approximately 12 months in service (MIS). The majority of failures were below the average of 14,000 miles or 12 MIS. Analysis of reported failures showed that the failure rate is approximately 0.08% or 0.8 incidents per thousand vehicles (IPTV).To date, there have been no reported fires, crashes, injuries, or fatalities related to this issue. In view of the low rate of failure, the nature of early-life failure, and low potential hazard to drivers, this Preliminary Evaluation is closed. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist. The agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by new circumstances.Review the ODI reports cited above at nhtsa.gov under the following identification numbers:11446833, 11438403, 11382958, 11298402, 11291955, 11218819, 11218780

Crash-test ratings

2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SUV FWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SUV AWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

Fuel economy by trim

TrimEngineDrivetrainCityHwyCombined
Atlas Cross Sport2.0L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive212422
Atlas Cross Sport3.6L 6-cylFront-Wheel Drive172319

EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.

Before you buy

Useful next checks

Federal records tell you about patterns. These checks can tell you more about the specific car in front of you.

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Compare the year-by-year record

Open another year for its own evidence-gated decision. TireKick does not crown a best year from raw complaint totals.

2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport: frequently asked

What does the complaint record show for the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport?

Owners filed 100 NHTSA complaints about the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.

What are the most common problems on the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport?

The most-reported problem areas are Electrical System (31% of complaints) and air bags (16%).

How many recalls does the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport have?

11 recalls have been issued that affect the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, covering components such as exterior lighting. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.

What gas mileage does the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport get?

The EPA rates the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport between 19 and 22 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.