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Model-year record

2021 Volkswagen Atlas
Image: Wikimedia Commons contributor · See source file

2021 Volkswagen Atlas

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

447

Reports to NHTSA, 2021

Safety recalls

17

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 447 reports), followed by exterior lighting (11%).

Electrical System31% · 137 reports
Exterior Lighting11% · 50 reports
Air Bags11% · 48 reports
Unknown Or Other10% · 44 reports
Engine9% · 42 reports
Service Brakes7% · 30 reports
Structure4% · 17 reports
Power Train3% · 14 reports

+ 18 more component categories with fewer reports.

Share of all 447 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11749727, ODI 11746984, ODI 11746013, ODI 11740726, ODI 11738295.

Individual complaint reports(447)

Showing the 50 most recent reports
Unknown Or OtherJul 2026 · ODI 11751400Details +

Hood release cable broken. Cannot open hood

Reported
Jul 2026
Incident date
Jul 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11751400 at NHTSA →
EngineJul 2026 · ODI 11751327Details +

2021 Volkswagen Atlas, VIN [XXX], approximately 116,000 miles. Vehicle developed a cylinder failure requiring full cylinder replacement. Following replacement, compression remains abnormally low, specifically on cylinders #4 and #6 (approximately 90 PSI). Mechanic diagnosed significant carbon buildup on the piston rings as the cause of the persistent low compression, and confirmed this diagnosis via a wet compression test, in which compression increased when oil was introduced directly into the affected cylinders — indicating worn/compromised piston ring sealing rather than a valve or head gasket issue. Check engine light continues to trigger intermittently. This appears consistent with a known EA888 2.0T piston ring/carbon buildup defect currently the subject of active class action litigation (XXX) against Volkswagen Group of America. Vehicle has also experienced a separate prior failure of the high- and low-pressure fuel pumps and control module (repaired XXX at 77,921 miles, Volkswagen of North Nashville). Concerned about ongoing engine performance and reliability, and potential for further damage if underlying cause is not fully resolved. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
Jul 2026
Incident date
Jun 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11751327 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingJul 2026 · ODI 11750992Details +

DRLs went out after the vehicle being on lly a few years old.

Reported
Jul 2026
Incident date
Jul 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11750992 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherJul 2026 · ODI 11749850Details +

The hood latch just randomly disconnected and all over forms and post and videos on YouTube. It sounds like it’s a very common issue with the Atlas.

Reported
Jul 2026
Incident date
Jul 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11749850 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJul 2026 · ODI 11749727Details +

When it is hot out and car is idiling car cuts off. When reverse car stalls. Auto stop/start is off and car request to be restarted manually.

Reported
Jul 2026
Incident date
Jul 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11749727 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingJun 2026 · ODI 11747355Details +

Both set of running lights on my Atlas have burned out and were replaced since purchased of car in 2021 and again both left and right running lights are no longer working. The first time the car was under warranty. The cost to fix the LED running lights are 1500.00 + per light! This is clearly a defect on VW‘s design and should be fixed and fall under a recall.

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
Jun 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11747355 at NHTSA →
EngineJun 2026 · ODI 11747217Details +

I was driving on a busy road and my car turned off. I had to turn on my hazards and hope no one hit me at 60 mph. I got an EPC error on the dashboard and when diagnosed it was a failure with the Fuel Pump Control Module. This is massively unsafe for myself and my family. I cannot drive a car that can randomly turn off. According to online forums this is a very common VW issue and needs to be looked into

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
Jun 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11747217 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJun 2026 · ODI 11746984Details +

The electric board goes black frequently. Also, my backup camera and assistive device for backup doesn’t work. It starts and stops after a second. Posing a big problem with backing up because I have neck injury and can’t adequately see.

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
Jun 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11746984 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJun 2026 · ODI 11746013Details +

passenger side day time running light went out right at 60,000. called dealer not covered under warranty on a 21 atlas even though i purchased a 4 year 80,000 mile warranty.. the extended warranty started the day i bought the car.

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
Jun 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11746013 at NHTSA →
Air BagsJun 2026 · ODI 11745335Details +

My wife was driving the car to go get food. While she was out she called me and asked me to look at the car when she gets home because she smelled a strange smell in the care. Approximately five minutes after that call she called me again panicking that the side curtain airbags had deployed while she was driving home. She said she was not in an accident and just driving straight down the road. She also did not hit any potholes as there are none on the street where she was driving. She told me that the airbags deployed slowly and that the drivers side deployed seconds before the passengers side. The front seatbelts also locked and the car shut down on its own. She said that there were no lights on in the dash and other than the smell, there was no indication that anything was wrong. The car is currently at the dealer being checked out. The police were not called. I was able to drive the car home from the road when I met my wife on the side of the road. It is a safety risk because once the airbags deployed, she was not able to see out of the side windows and the car shut down which could have caused a car accident.

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
Jun 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11745335 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingJun 2026 · ODI 11745383Details +

Daytime running lights have failed on both headlight assemblies. Both failed at just outside the warranty period. High and low beams work fine and the repair is $2000 for a headlight which is outrageous.

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
Feb 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11745383 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherJun 2026 · ODI 11743863Details +

Hood latch release cable snapped and I can no longer open hood.

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
Jun 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11743863 at NHTSA →
StructureJun 2026 · ODI 11743559Details +

Hood release cable either lost tension, broke, or came loose from the clamp in the junction box and cannot open the hood. I was stopped on the side of the road, unable to open the hood. I and my family were put in excessive danger on the side of the road as I could not correct the issue without waiting for a tow truck because I could not open the hood. Dealer, as well as multiple shops in my area have confirmed this is a consistent issue with the VW Atals. There was no warning or I would have replaced it when it was under warranty. My VW atlas only has 44,000 miles on it but not in the 5 year warranty period.

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
Jun 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11743559 at NHTSA →
Air BagsJun 2026 · ODI 11743338Details +

Vehicle safety components bypassed

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
Jun 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11743338 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMay 2026 · ODI 11740726Details +

The right driver side daylight light is out, the SOS response system warning light is on, tire pressure loss detected light is but tires are fine and no loss in pressure, cruise control doesn’t always work and deactivates.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
Mar 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11740726 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingMay 2026 · ODI 11740364Details +

Front passenger-side daytime running light went out. Cannot be replaced individually. Must replace entire front lighting assembly at significant cost.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11740364 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingMay 2026 · ODI 11739993Details +

The DRLs went out at the same time. It's still not working so it's available for inspection. DRLs are obviously safety-relevant. No warning, no messages. Checking fault codes shows "module overheating".

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11739993 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingMay 2026 · ODI 11739873Details +

Passenger side daytime running light has burned out. Driver side daytime running light is starting to burn out as well. Starting to read that this is a problem for this year make and model of vehicle.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
Apr 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11739873 at NHTSA →
SeatsMay 2026 · ODI 11739668 · 1 injuriesDetails +

Rear seat latch for the second row, which enables the seats to slide forward for passengers to enter the third row, does not latch correctly. Recent incident where child in car seat in the third row was thrown forward into the rear of the drivers seat (seatback) when the 2nd row seat latch mechanism suddenly released when applying light pressure to the brakes. Child was injured, suffered a laceration and bruising to his eye area.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
1 injuries
Open ODI 11739668 at NHTSA →
EngineMay 2026 · ODI 11739249Details +

The vehicle has an oil leak in the crankshaft with 70 K miles, dealership states not covered by VW

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11739249 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingMay 2026 · ODI 11739342Details +

Driver's side daytime running lights have gone out already after fairly low mileage. Have since discovered this is a very common issue for this model and requires entire headlight assembly replacement, which is over $1,000. This prohibitive cost lessens the likelihood of replacement for many drivers and since it is not legally required it negates the added safety value of these lights.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11739342 at NHTSA →
Air BagsMay 2026 · ODI 11739147 · crashDetails +

My daughter hit a deer while she was on the interstate, so she had her cruise control set at 72 mph, the deer came up out of the left/median ditch (she was in the left lane at the time). There was no warning as she did not see it at all, so there was an immediate, intense impact, enough where the hood of the car ended up opening up and smashing and coming to rest against the windshield. The Front end of the Atlas was HEAVILY damaged and NO AIRBAGS DEPLOYED at all! The vehicle's seatbelt did lock up and keep her from slamming into the steering column and windshield and the vehicle's Front Assist Braking system did engage after the impact to slow her down and actually tried pulling her to the side of the road, although, that could be a flaw as well as it assumed that she was in the right lane of the road to begin with, so it pulled her to stop in the middle of the right lane of the Interstate. Thankfully it was late enough in the evening and no other traffic so she was able to figure that out in her post accident confusion and was able to get the car further off the road and call for help. The Atlas had to be towed from the scene. Prior to this incident there has been no issues with any warning lights coming on and we have had all past recalls taken care of through the VW Dealership we bought our VW from, so we assume that they were taken care of properly.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 11739147 at NHTSA →
StructureMay 2026 · ODI 11738815Details +

The hood release latch cable on my 2021 VW Atlas snapped, making it impossible to access the engine compartment. This happened as I was at the store to change the battery in my vehicle. I had to jump start the vehicle twice earlier that day, as the battery was wearing out. Because the hood would not open, I was unable to change the battery. Luckily, the vehicle started, so I could drive it home, but otherwise I would have been stranded with no way to start the vehicle as I would not have been able to open the hood and access the engine or battery. This is a serious safety concern. It should never happen on any vehicle, but certainly not on a vehicle that is only a few years old.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11738815 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingMay 2026 · ODI 11738502Details +

The daylight running lights failed at the same time. This a closed system so VW wants 1000 per headlight unit.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11738502 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMay 2026 · ODI 11738295Details +

Car repeatedly shutting off while driving. Coal canister replaced multiple times but car has continued to shut off even after replacement.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11738295 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingMay 2026 · ODI 11737256Details +

THERE IS AN INVESTIGATION FOR THIS ISSUE WHICH IS THE DRL'S/DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS FOR THE VW 2021 (2021-2023 ACTUALLY) GIVE OUT/FAIL, AND THEY CANNOT BE FIXED WITHOUT REPLACING THE $1200 ENTIRE HEADLIGHT PART. CRAZY FOR A LIGHT THAT NEW TO GIVE OUT FOR SO MANY. I REFUSE TO PAY FOR THESE IT IS OBVIOUYSLY A DESIGN FLAW ON THEIR END. IN OUR CASE, BOTH DRL'S GAVE OUT. REGULAR NIGHT LIGHTS WORK BUT THOSE DO NOT WORK DAY OR NIGHT AS THEY SHOULD

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
Jan 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11737256 at NHTSA →
EngineMay 2026 · ODI 11737346Details +

I have an Atlas Voltswagon 2021. I have a water pump leak issue with my vehicle. There is a recall warranty for this vehicle from 2014-2021 for this very reason, but my VIN is not underneath this because of the trim package I have. I believe this is ridiculous. My trim package sound not be excluded from this warranty if its a manufactural issue and the make, model and year are within this warrenty. I'm bringing this to your attention because it will cost me $2000 from a voltswagon dealership to fix and other people with my trim package will probably be dealing with this issue.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11737346 at NHTSA →
StructureMay 2026 · ODI 11737443Details +

I was casually checking my fluid levels when I opened the hood and there was a loud pop upon pulling the hood release lever. Numerous complaints online led me to believe that this was the hood release cable coming undone which now means I have no access to my battery and all components of the vehicle under the hood.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11737443 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingMay 2026 · ODI 11736671Details +

Both LED headlight running day lights went out together.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11736671 at NHTSA →
StructureMay 2026 · ODI 11736253Details +

The hood latch release mechanism inside the vehicle cab broke when I was trying to open the hood to add coolant. I cannot open the hood at this point without a repair persons assistance. When I investigated this online I discovered that there are thousands of people experiencing the same issue with the car. It can become dangerous for a person if there is a failed battery and the person cannot access the engine compartment. It is also preventing me from adding the needed coolant and could be a concern for a person who needs routine maintenance on the car. This is clearly a factory defect that can have significant impacts on consumers.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
Apr 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11736253 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingMay 2026 · ODI 11736044Details +

One of the headlights failed at 80,000 miles (the other headlight was replaced due to car accident years ago). Volkswagen Atlas models are consistently experiencing a failure of LED headlights prematurely when they should last 10-15 years. There is a class action lawsuit against Volkswagen to force them to recall and correct the issue as they have known and failed to correct this critical safety issue. It is unsafe to have these vehicles on the road with faulty headlights, for both the drivers and occupants as well as the other vehicles on the road with them. This particular vehicle has been inspected by a certified mechanic. The dealership would not return my calls in a timely manner and the vehicle needed to be inspected and fixed as quickly as possible as this is a safety issue. There have been no warning lights or messages from the vehicle or my VW app to notify me of this issue prior to failure or after.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11736044 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMay 2026 · ODI 11736184Details +

I was driving on the Highway, and went to accelerate and my car went into Limp Mode in the middle of the highway and I was almost not able to get to the emergency lane due to not being able to accelerate. I took it to the nearest auto mechanic shop, and they informed they could not work on it or diagnose due to it being a Volkswagen. I then took it to the nearest Volkswagen dealership, and they said they have seen a lot of 2020 and newer Volkswagen cars going into Limp mode randomly and not starting back up. They also removed the codes and diagnostic issues that were coming up. They said it was a fuel pump issue which they replaced and two days later my car went into Limp mode again on the highway for the exact same reason, and my car wont start again. Every Mechanic and tow truck driver I have talked to have all said the same thing with Volkswagens especially the newer ones going into Limp mode and not starting. This car is not safe and accidents will happen if it is not fixed.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
Apr 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11736184 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingMay 2026 · ODI 11735726Details +

This vehicle is equipped with LED Daytime Running Lights. These are designed to be long-life, however, as has been noted multiple times in this forum, half of the passenger-side DRL on my vehicle has stopped functioning. The repair cost for this item is in excess of $2,000 as the front bumper needs to be removed and the entire headlight assembly replaced. Most drivers will choose to defer replacement, thereby negating the safety value that the DRLs are intended to provide.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11735726 at NHTSA →
StructureMay 2026 · ODI 11735490Details +

The hood latch cable snapped preventing the hood from being opened in the event of an engine fire. The dealer stated this is a common issue with this make and model vehicle.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
Apr 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11735490 at NHTSA →
StructureMay 2026 · ODI 11735047Details +

The hood release latch cable snapped, which makes it impossible to open the hood for an emergency or maintenance. The cable is a poor design that is prone to breaking, and from looking online is an extremely common occurrence for the Atlas. It also costs $500-$800 to repair for each occurrence and the vehicle is a safety concern until repaired due to the risk of not being able to open the hood in the event of an emergency.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11735047 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingApr 2026 · ODI 11735007Details +

LED passenger daytime light malfunctioned, and now LED driver's headlight has stopped working. Cost to replace each headlight was quoted by 3 dealerships at $3,000 EACH. Cannot afford to fix this major safety issue. LED lights should not be going out! It should not cost $3,000 to replace headlights! I will need to drive without lights!!

Reported
Apr 2026
Incident date
Apr 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11735007 at NHTSA →
SeatsApr 2026 · ODI 11734251 · crash · 2 injuriesDetails +

Our 2021 VW Atlas was rear-ended while stopped at stop light. The other driver was going an estimated 45 MPH. At impact, the driver seat broke backwards hitting our 5 year old child in the face. The child was in a 5-point harness car seat and the only injuries resulting from the accident were to the face and head. We were taken to a children's hospital in an ambulance where the child stayed 5 nights with facial fractures, a broken nose, skull fracture, and CSF leak.

Reported
Apr 2026
Incident date
Apr 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash 2 injuries
Open ODI 11734251 at NHTSA →
StructureApr 2026 · ODI 11733533Details +

I own a 2021 VW Atlas. My daughter owns a 2020 VW Atlas. Both vehicles have had a nonfunctioning hood latch. What this means is you cannot under any circumstances open your hood. So, if you need to do any of the multitude of under hood services you cannot. I had to wait weeks for my VW dealer to get it in to make the repair. After speaking with my service advisor at my VW dealership, it turns out this is a frequent problem for VW Atlas owners. A casual search online shows many incidents of the hood latch system failures. This should most certainly be a recall, fully covered by VW. This occurrence does not appear to be random or unusual, so it is clearly a (part or component) design flaw.

Reported
Apr 2026
Incident date
Jun 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11733533 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherApr 2026 · ODI 11732216Details +

Anytime I come to a stop at a stop sign or a red light, my car just shuts off. Today driving on I 95, my car completely shut down on me. I have been told that it has something to do with my fuel pump or fuel line.

Reported
Apr 2026
Incident date
Apr 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11732216 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemApr 2026 · ODI 11731263 · crash · 2 injuriesDetails +

Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) system traps harmful fuel vapors from the gas tank, storing them in a charcoal canister before burning them in the engine

Reported
Apr 2026
Incident date
Apr 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash 2 injuries
Open ODI 11731263 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingApr 2026 · ODI 11730606Details +

The integrated LED Daytime Running Light (DRL) strip within the passenger-side headlight assembly failed prematurely at 79,136 miles and remains available for inspection on the vehicle. This failure directly compromises road safety by reducing the vehicle's visibility to oncoming traffic during dawn, dusk, and inclement weather, increasing the risk of a head-on or intersection collision. While I have not yet obtained a formal dealership estimate, this is a known non-serviceable component that typically requires a full headlight assembly replacement costing upwards of $1,500 to $2,000. No warning lamps, messages, or symptoms like flickering occurred prior to the total failure. As this is a factory-installed safety component designed to last the life of the vehicle, its sudden failure suggests a widespread manufacturing defect in the LED circuitry. Out daughter used the car to go eat with a friend at a restaurant and noticed the light out when she unlocked the car.

Reported
Apr 2026
Incident date
Apr 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11730606 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherApr 2026 · ODI 11730380Details +

Emergency Call (SOS) system failure / internal battery defect. This is apparently a known issue on the VW Atlas (and other VW/Audi models with Car-Net/SOS systems). Owners regularly report SOS/Emergency Call errors associated with the backup battery or the telematics module. Some dealers even acknowledge it as a “known issue” with those systems. This isn’t rare, especially in the 3–5 year window of the vehicle's age. The backup battery itself is cheap (roughly $50–$100 in most cases); however, the labor is not, because it typically requires a glove box/dash teardown and access to the module behind panels or the console. SOS-related repair costs, due to labor, are generally quoted between $850 and $1,500, depending on the city, state, and dealership. Sadly, VW knows this is an issue and refuses to do anything about it, creating a potentially dangerous situation where, in an emergency, the call button (sold as a must-have feature) will not function without this expensive battery replacement. My research shows this is an ongoing issue even in new models, yet they refuse to remedy it.

Reported
Apr 2026
Incident date
Sep 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11730380 at NHTSA →
SeatsMar 2026 · ODI 11728357 · 1 injuriesDetails +

There issue with bad smell or chemicals that causes an health issues. I tried resolving on several issues it's always more money. To resolve,there several Dealship that appraiser now it's at the lowest with the same deal.. There bleeding& spitting. Once come vehicle for and day. I've been there several times.

Reported
Mar 2026
Incident date
Oct 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
1 injuries
Open ODI 11728357 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherMar 2026 · ODI 11727669Details +

After subscribing to the Safe Drive on the VW app, I got a warning display on my dash for service for the SOS call system. The orange triangle appeared and the SOS light turned from green to red. I cancelled the app and unsubscribed from everything. The SOS light returned to green, but the dash still has the warning triangle and says the SOS emergency call system has an issue. The car was purchased from a dealer January 2026 and has only been driven 2,000 miles.

Reported
Mar 2026
Incident date
Mar 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11727669 at NHTSA →
EngineMar 2026 · ODI 11727150Details +

My vehicle has been taken in for the ac 3x now as well as the start stop feature stalling and not working twice. This most recent service repair is for a coolant leake and ac issue resulting in a head gasket needing to be replaced

Reported
Mar 2026
Incident date
Mar 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11727150 at NHTSA →
SuspensionMar 2026 · ODI 11725398Details +

Rear coil snapped while driving

Reported
Mar 2026
Incident date
Mar 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11725398 at NHTSA →
Power TrainMar 2026 · ODI 11724895Details +

Up until failure, car showed no signs of a problem and was properly maintained. While driving under normal highway conditions one of the transmission lines blew which resulted in the vehicle breaking down and requiring a tow to the closest dealer who determined new transmission lines and a new transmission were needed. My daughter and I were in the car and the car became unsafe to drive in a very short period of time with no heads up. The problem has been reported on the same 2021 Volkswagen Atlas as mine however my VIN was not captured in the recall. Inspection and repair was performed by Nemer Volkswagen Corp. in Latham NY. The only warning signs were as the problem was occurring in real time.

Reported
Mar 2026
Incident date
Feb 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11724895 at NHTSA →
Power TrainMar 2026 · ODI 11725002Details +

Hi- I have an atlas 2021 Volkswagen Atlas- that was recently serviced for a transmission leak. According to my mechanic, the leak was the result of the plastic cowling rubbing against the cooling tube and after 100k miles the tube wore through. This seems to be a design flaw or defect in the vehicle and not normal wear out. I have pictures of the part of that helps. Thank you

Reported
Mar 2026
Incident date
Feb 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11725002 at NHTSA →
StructureMar 2026 · ODI 11724247Details +

ON DIFFERENT OCCASION THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR HINGE WILL LOCK AND NOT ALLOW THE DOOR TO CLOSE COMPLETELY. I HAVE BEEN DRIVING AND THE DOOR WILL OPEN AND I HAVE TO HOLD IT "CLOSED" WHILE DRIVING. CURRENTLY MY DRIVERS SIDE DOOR WILL NOT OPEN WHEN I UNLOCK THE DOORS I HAVE TO CLIMB THROUGH THE PASSENGERS SIDE OR THE BACK SEAT IN ORDER TO OPEN MY DRIVERS SIDE DOOR. THIS HAS HAPPENED ON THREE SEPARATE OCCASIONS- MY DOOR NOT CLOSING ALL THE WAY. IT IS A HAZARD WHEN DRIVING AND SUDDENLY MY VEHICLE DOES A DRASTIC STOP ASKING I PUT THE VEHICLE IN PARK BECAUSE IT ASSUMES I OPENED THE DOOR MANUALLY.

Reported
Mar 2026
Incident date
Mar 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11724247 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherMar 2026 · ODI 11722813Details +

hood latch broke. and cannot open hood

Reported
Mar 2026
Incident date
Mar 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11722813 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(17)

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.

Electrical SystemJun 2021 · 21V616000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. Damaged relays may have been installed in the engine compartment fuse box, which could inadvertently activate the horn or engine starter.

Risk: A horn or starter that remains activated for an extended period of time can overheat, increasing the risk of fire.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and as necessary, replace the relays, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 27, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 97FR.

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WheelsMar 2021 · 21V132000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The lug bolt holes on the wheels may have been machined incorrectly, preventing the wheel bolt from sufficiently attaching to the wheel bearing hub.

Risk: An insufficiently attached wheel may separate from the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect all four wheels, and as necessary, replace the wheels, lug bolts ,and wheel bearings, free of charge. The recall began March 4, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 44Q9.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Back Over Prevention · 20V716000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Atlas Cross Sport, Tiguan LWB, Jetta NF, Jetta GLI, Golf GTI, Atlas FL and Arteon vehicles. The rear view camera could malfunction during an ignition cycle, leading to a black screen or infotainment system freeze. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Risk: A black or frozen rear view image reduces the driver's visibility when reversing, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will update the infotainment system software, free of charge. The recall began December 11, 2020. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 91BB/91BC.

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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 →
Wheels · 21V812000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Atlas, Atlas Cross Sport, and Passat vehicles. The front wheel bearing bolts may have been incorrectly tightened.

Risk: The bolts may loosen and cause a loss of control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect the tightness of the wheel bearing bolts and replace the bolts, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 2, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 40R7.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Fuel System · 22V245000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Atlas FL and Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The long fuel injectors may have been assembled without filters.

Risk: Long fuel injectors with missing filters may leak fuel, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the long fuel injectors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 20, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 24iD.

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Back Over Prevention · 22V514000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Golf GTI, Jetta GLI, Jetta NF, Arteon FL, Tiguan LWB, 2022 Taos, Jetta PA, Tiguan PA, 2021-2022 Atlas Cross Sport, and Atlas FL vehicles. The manufacturing process of the eMMC memory module in the infotainment system may cause the rearview camera image not to display. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Risk: A rearview camera that does not display an image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will update the infotainment software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 16, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 91DV.

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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.

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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.

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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.

Inadvertent Automatic Emergency Braking

On September 28, 2023, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE23017) to assess reports of inadvertent activation of the Front Assist automatic emergency braking (AEB) system in model year (MY) 2018-2019 Volkswagen Atlas vehicles.The reports alleged that activation of the AEB system occurred while driving with no apparent obstruction in the vehicle's forward path, resulting in sudden vehicle deceleration. Volkswagen indicated that it is aware of a total of 292 reports that may relate to the alleged defect in MY 2018-2019 Volkswagen Atlas vehicles.Volkswagen stated that some customers possibly had an inadequate understanding of Front Assist and its limitations.  However, many consumer complaints alleged that Volkswagen dealerships were unable to reproduce the condition or Volkswagen dealerships informed the consumers that this braking is considered normal Front Assist operation. ODI's analysis shows that MY 2019 Volkswagen Atlas vehicles have the highest rate of unique incident reports alleging AEB inadvertent activation when compared to their Volkswagen peers.The rate of unique incident reports alleging AEB inadvertent activation in MY 2018 Volkswagen Atlas vehicles was comparable to their Volkswagen peers. To date, ODI has received a total of 69 consumer complaints of inadvertent activation of Front Assist in MY 2018-2019 Volkswagen Atlas vehicles.  In total, ODI reviewed 264 unique (i.e., non-duplicative Vehicle Identification Numbers) reports that may relate to the alleged defect, which include eight reports of incidents involving an alleged injury and two reports involving a crash. PE23017 has been upgraded to an Engineering Analysis (EA24004) to further assess the scope, frequency, and potential safety related consequences of the inadvertent AEB activations in MY 2019 Volkswagen Atlas vehicles. To review the ODI reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.

Crash-test ratings

2021 Volkswagen Atlas SUV FWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

2021 Volkswagen Atlas SUV AWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

Fuel economy by trim

TrimEngineDrivetrainCityHwyCombined
Atlas2.0L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive212422
Atlas3.6L 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.

2021 Volkswagen Atlas: frequently asked

What does the complaint record show for the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas?

Owners filed 447 NHTSA complaints about the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas. 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 2021 Volkswagen Atlas?

The most-reported problem areas are Electrical System (31% of complaints) and exterior lighting (11%).

How many recalls does the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas have?

17 recalls have been issued that affect the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas, covering components such as electrical system. 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 2021 Volkswagen Atlas get?

The EPA rates the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas between 19 and 22 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.