2022 Volkswagen Atlas

This car has increasingly started stalling out as I come to a stop in traffic at lower speeds. There is no consistent pattern behind when it will occur. At times, I feel my car's engine start to shudder like it's going to stall, but it is not immediately followed by stalling. I have taken it to a dealer last month because it stalled at least three times in a month. They replaced the battery because they couldn't find cause, and this past Sunday, the car stalled as I pulled into a parking spot and shut off. Each time, I have my auto engine off disengaged. It is NOT the engine turning off at a red light and re-engaging when I take my foot off the brake. The car will turn off and not throw any error codes, making it impossible for techs to determine the problem. The dash will tell me to "Please start engine manually" and it has started up each time.

Reported

Jul 2026

Incident date

Jul 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Daytime running light went out and needs the whole assembly to be replaced which is $1400+ from the dealership. Vehicle is barley 4 years old

Reported

Jul 2026

Incident date

Jun 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The Daylight Driving Lights have failed 2X. Very expensive fix. Seems to be a common problem.

Reported

Jul 2026

Incident date

Jun 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The hood release latch/cable is broken. It worked when we took it into the dealer for a blend door actuator repair and oil change. The dealer claims it is a “known issue” for this model vehicle but they can’t repair it at no cost, despite it working just fine when we dropped it off. If this is a known issue (which I’ve seen many complaints about it online) then VW should be repairing or replacing the defective parts, not forcing that expense onto consumers.

Reported

Jul 2026

Incident date

Jun 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Hello, I have a 2022 VW Atlas with 54,250 miles. I noticed today when I started up by car that the DRL (daytime running lights) was dimmed to the point where I didn't even notice it on. This seems to be an issue with Volkswagen Atlas's years 2021-2023. It is currently out and anyone can come look at it at anytime. This seems to be a larger issue, many people complaining about this online and the cost to replace / fix the issue is over $1500 with parts and labor. The design makes it so the entire headlight needs to be replaced. Without daytime running lights, I feel like I am not seen as easily so I could be in an accident much easier. I brought the issue to the dealer and they said they see a lot of these failing between 40K - 60K miles. No warning, one day it was working the next it wasn't.

Reported

Jun 2026

Incident date

Jun 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Description of the Issue: I am filing a complaint regarding a premature coolant leak and failure of the engine water pump on my 2022 Volkswagen Atlas. The vehicle was taken to an authorized Volkswagen dealership for an unrelated safety recall service. During their multi-point inspection, the dealership technicians officially diagnosed a coolant leak coming directly from the water pump. At only 70,000 miles, this component should not be failing. This constitutes a major safety hazard. If left unrepaired, a water pump leak leads to sudden engine overheating, loss of power, and potential catastrophic engine failure while driving, placing the driver and passengers at severe risk on the road. Volkswagen has a well-documented history of premature water pump failures across several models. I request that the NHTSA investigate this known defect in the 2022 model year to hold the manufacturer accountable and prevent future safety incidents.

Reported

Jun 2026

Incident date

Jun 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I started the car to cool off and stepped out of the car and the curtain airbags deployed on both sides of the vehicle.

Reported

Jun 2026

Incident date

Jun 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The Daytime Running Lights are integrated into the headlight assembly so when the ights fail they cannot be replaced by the car owner by replacing a bulb. They also fail at very low mileage. Mine have failed before 70k miles. To replace the DRL the entire housing must be replaced and this costs upwards of $2k per headlight or $4k for both. That is almost 10% of the purchase price of the car! For headlights that the owner should be able to buy and replace themselves for $60

Reported

Jun 2026

Incident date

Feb 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

All the airbags in the car deployed from a minor impact; it is available for inspection.

Reported

May 2026

Incident date

Jan 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Crash

Ever since I bought this vehicle, it stalls randomly. Apparently this is a major issue with this car and complaints are all over the Internet by owners. I have a child and I am afraid to drive the car. I have bought the car to get fixed and it is still stalling. It appears that thousands of people have the same issue as some sort of canister needs to be replaced but even shortly after it is replaced, my vehicle stalls along with everyone else’s. Also, my info entertainment center has issues and my airbag has an error code right now. From what I am reading, this vehicle is a major hazard and is very dangerous to drive.

Reported

May 2026

Incident date

May 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2022 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the emergency brake engaged without warning. All the warning lights were illuminated. The windows went up and down without application. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer for NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V152000 (Air Bags). The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to another local dealer, Volkswagen South Towne Service and Parts Department: 11000 Frontage Rd, South Jordan, UT 84095, where it was diagnosed that the driver door module had failed. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, who informed there was no warranty coverage and no additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 10,000.

Reported

May 2026

Incident date

Jul 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I had the thermostat and water pump replaced at 57k miles. At 125k it needs to be replaced again. Costing me another $1700. I have read about numerous complaints about this issue.

Reported

Apr 2026

Incident date

Apr 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The connecting road bearing broke apart. Caused the engine to shut off while driving. No, the problem has not been confirmed but all the symptoms and issues point to it. They found metal shavings in the oil and oil filter. The EPC light came on prior to it occurring.

Reported

Apr 2026

Incident date

Jan 2001

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

On multiple occasions the vehicle's engine will stall out in traffic when breaking. It happens every few weeks randomly. To correct the stall, I need to place the vehicle into park and restart the engine.

Reported

Apr 2026

Incident date

Apr 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The daytime running lights are know to fail within 30-50k miles and the only option is to replace the whole housing unit. This is an unreasonable expectation that customers are purchasing a vehicle at 40-60k and then having to set aside 2k for a headlight replacement.

Reported

Apr 2026

Incident date

Jan 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Bought the car and it is constantly stalling on me at low rpm’s, and then won’t start again for 10 minutes. I don’t want to drive it because I never know when it’s going to happen. I’ve taken it to dealer twice and they tell me they do not know what is the problem.

Reported

Apr 2026

Incident date

Mar 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Driving on highway when engine shutdown suddenly and ended up on side of highway. Had a recall done a few months back for engine rods and dealership did not replace them and stated the test passed so not necessary.

Reported

Mar 2026

Incident date

Feb 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I am submitting this urgent safety complaint regarding my 2022 Volkswagen Atlas VR6 , currently at approximately 85,000 miles, purchased through Carvana. Critical Safety Concerns: EPC warning light illumination Engine shutdown events while driving Pronounced bottom-end engine noise Vehicle is unreliable and poses a serious risk to my safety Timeline & Escalation Attempts: November 21: initial rattling noise reported, likely indicative of developing engine issues Multiple requests to Carvana for inspection and escalation were refused, including authorization for a Regional Technical Specialist/Field Engineer review at a certified Volkswagen dealership Vehicle was not properly shipped to my address, causing additional hardship Formal escalation letters submitted to Volkswagen corporate and Carvana without resolution Complaints filed with Louisiana Attorney General – Consumer Protection, Better Business Bureau Auto Line, and now NHTSA Personal Impact: I have a service-connected disability, and this vehicle failure has severely impacted my mobility and independence. The situation presents a real safety hazard both for myself and others on the road. Given the serious safety implications, I request that NHTSA investigate this vehicle as a potential safety defect and ensure appropriate corrective action is taken. Thank you for your attention and urgent consideration of this matter. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported

Mar 2026

Incident date

Feb 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

On the week of 10/13/2025, I had an oil sensor alert appear after a recent oil change. I took the vehicle in on 10/30/2025 for a diagnostic check and was told the oil separator sensor was defective and needed to be replaced. After the service was completed, the total was $906.42 of which I paid $580.99 out of pocket post my extended warranty claim payment. I received a recall notice in November 2025 for Emissions Service Action 10LP - Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) Valve / Oil Separator. The same issue I just paid for in October 2025.I had an unsuccessful attempt dealing with Jim Ellis Volkswagon in Kennesaw to try and retrieve a refund directly from them. I subsequently completed and emailed the reimbursement form to Volkswagon on 1/2/2026. I have not received any communication to them in regards to my reimbursement claim.

Reported

Mar 2026

Incident date

Oct 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

I am filing a complaint regarding a premature failure of a critical safety-related lighting component on my 2022 Volkswagen Atlas. The driver-side headlight daytime running light (DRL) has failed. After inspection by an authorized Volkswagen dealership (Momentum Volkswagen), I was informed that the DRL is not a serviceable component and that the entire headlight assembly must be replaced. This is concerning for several reasons: 1.The vehicle is a 2022 model year and has been properly maintained with no accidents or external damage. 2.The DRL is an integrated LED component that should reasonably last the life of the vehicle. 3.The failure of a non-replaceable LED strip forces replacement of the entire headlight assembly, resulting in excessive and unreasonable repair costs. I contacted Volkswagen Group of America requesting goodwill assistance, as this appears to be a premature component failure rather than normal wear and tear. Despite escalation and review with a supervisor, my request was denied. The only assistance offered was a 20% dealership discount, which does not adequately address the issue. I believe this situation reflects: •A potential design defect (non-serviceable LED component) •Unreasonable repair costs due to lack of modular repair options •Failure of a component that should not fail under normal conditions in such a short time frame Desired Resolution: I am requesting that Volkswagen provide goodwill assistance to cover a significant portion (preferably full coverage) of the headlight assembly replacement. Additionally, I encourage Volkswagen to review this design approach, as it places an unfair financial burden on customers for failures of non-serviceable components. I am seeking a fair and reasonable resolution consistent with customer satisfaction and product reliability expectations.

Reported

Feb 2026

Incident date

Feb 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

My remote start no longer works since the VW update. Intermittent electrical issues with “check tail light” message. VW has changed the light and module and it’s still happening.

Reported

Feb 2026

Incident date

Feb 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Myself and several other VW owners do not have access to the app remote start/lock features. Apparently this has been a known issue for a few years, and car owners pay for this extra service, but the MYVW app does not work properly no matter what we try.

Reported

Feb 2026

Incident date

Dec 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Dangerous car cyput off in full engagement. Brakes grinding squealing an unfamiliar sounds. The engine has major rust in air intake valves the epc code shut car down in full engagement and you can not restart unless u put extra gas in. TE car was replaced with new seats new body new rugs an the color has been repainted. The screws in bolts are not lined up an junkyard parts under carriage of car. Unfortunately I didn't see all this when I fiancee it in May a machine showed me this an I bought a used lemon from Tampa Enterprise car sales in May 2025.645 a month in payment to ally banks. Car in shop more then on road anit has never ever been serviced as it was told to me as a pre certified car.they lied to me an restore almost everything in this car the dealership even questioned me about color coating comestic missing ve design on plated door. I need help

Reported

Feb 2026

Incident date

Nov 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

DRLs are simultaneously going out in my not quite 4 year old car. I’m currently at 90k miles. It is available for inspection upon request.. There were no warning lamps. This was discovered on inspection in January 2026. The VW dealership in Bakersfield, CA and the VW dealership in Oklahoma City, OK inspected and found the same issue.

Reported

Jan 2026

Incident date

Jan 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Driving my car only a few minutes and it caught fire and blew up. Car was completely engulfed in flames. Son was barely able to get out before engine burst into flames.

Reported

Jan 2026

Incident date

Jan 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Fire

windshield cracks very easily with very minimal impact. There are countless threads and reports of this chassis having this problem and unfortunately VW put many sensors into the windshield causing the replacement to require calibration to use the some of the safety features. Second time this has happened.

Reported

Jan 2026

Incident date

Jan 2026

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2022 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated that while checking fluid levels in the engine compartment, the contact became aware that the coolant reservoir was low. The contact stated that there was no sign of a coolant leak, but coolant needed to be added to the reservoir weekly. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic, who determined that there was a coolant leak that was draining into a protective shield underneath the engine compartment. The contact stated there was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.

Reported

Jan 2026

Incident date

Nov 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The vehicle has middle row captains chairs. While slowing down for a stoplight, the captain chair behind the driver side lunged forward pinning my son’s head between his car seat and the back of my seat. Prior to the incident, there was no error indication (would pop up RED) telling me there was a bad latch when putting my son in his car seat. Is it available for inspection upon request? Yes, I still currently own the vehicle. My [XXX] old was not safe in his seat it flung forward he was stuck squished between two seats. I was unsafe as I was in a turn lane at a stoplight and got out of my vehicle to assist him. Thankfully, there were no cars behind me. The problem has not been resolved produced by me. But I am aware of other people this has happened to, my friend this happened (same make and model year as mine) and two random people on a group on Facebook. The vehicle was inspected by a dealership tech and after they sent pictures to VW they deemed it to not be returned to me until repair was done. My major concern now is that they replaced one of two captains chairs. They will not replace the parts on the second captain chair because it did not fail. My kids are traumatized over this and my older daughter does not trust the seat. So they are waiting for this to happen in the other seat before they will repair it. I can’t be naive to think the situation could be worse next time and my job as a parent is to keep them safe. These seats are not safe. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? No, nothing. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported

Dec 2025

Incident date

Nov 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

1 injuries

The infotainment system where the back up camera is held and all other safety features started re booting and eventually went black December 17th 2025. I brought into Volkswagen Riverhead NY dealer where they said there was an update that needed to be done and all was fixed. I am 1000 miles under warranty so all was covered. After driving about 20 minutes home the issue started happening again where the system was re booting and than eventually black. I called the dealer on the way home and they said oh yes its been a "known" issue on many makes of volkswagen since October 2025. They told me there was nothing they could do. I now called volkswagen customer care where they are stating they are un sure how to fix this. If you google you will see many complaints about this stemming back quite some time. I would like a resolution before my warranty runs out and I am than going to have to pay out of pocket.

Reported

Dec 2025

Incident date

Dec 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

DLRs faulty and went out around 77k miles. I cannot burn lights in Daytime. Yes, has been confirmed by Leith VW of Raleigh There were no warning lights of the light going out.

Reported

Dec 2025

Incident date

Dec 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

November 26th, I was leaving my home to go tPublix. Upon exiting the Eagle Creek community gate, I proceeded down Eagle Creek Sanctuary Boulevard to avoid hitting a cat, I ended scraped the side of my tires and rims on the side curb. Unexpectedly, while driving, the airbags deployed, even though I had not come into contact with the cat or any other object. The steering wheel airbag did not deploy only the airbags on the side a cop did show up because he was coming out of the eagler creek community and stopped to ask if I needed assistance I showed the office inside my vehicle he was shocked to see that my airbags deployed and the gentlemen that was Towing the vehicle was shocked as well the officer and the towing gentleman inform me I should contact Volkswagen. I contacted volkswagen customer service but I also wanted to report it to the NHTSA my concern is this should be investigated further.

Reported

Dec 2025

Incident date

Nov 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The infotainment system on my 2022 Volkswagen Atlas SE failed completely at 58,435 miles. The screen goes blank/black and the system will not remain operational. The vehicle was inspected and diagnosed by an authorized Volkswagen dealership (AutoNation Volkswagen of Hilton Head, Repair Order #434220). The dealer confirmed failure of the 5F Information Electronics (Infotainment) Control Module and recommended full module replacement. Volkswagen Customer CARE acknowledged the diagnosis but denied goodwill assistance solely because the vehicle was approximately 8,000 miles beyond the warranty period. No misuse, modification, water intrusion, or customer-caused damage was alleged. This failure renders core vehicle functions inoperable and is consistent with widely reported failures of Volkswagen/Audi infotainment control modules (5F / MIB / MMI systems). This appears to be a premature failure of a non-wear electronic control module and may represent a broader defect pattern affecting multiple vehicles.

Reported

Dec 2025

Incident date

Dec 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Brake system-Unresolved repair and inadequate investigation.

Reported

Dec 2025

Incident date

Mar 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The vehicle has experienced multiple serious safety failures involving the steering, electrical system, and powertrain. Most recently, while driving, the steering wheel locked unexpectedly, causing a temporary loss of control. Multiple dashboard warning lights began flashing, and the EPC light turned on and off repeatedly. I had to bring the vehicle to a complete stop and restart the engine to regain control. The camshaft/camshaft position sensor and steering system appear to be malfunctioning, and the issues have recurred multiple times. The vehicle has been taken to a dealer for inspection and repairs several times, but the failures continue. These problems have created a serious safety risk, as loss of steering and erratic electrical behavior can lead to accidents, putting myself, passengers, and others on the road at risk. Warning lamps first appeared intermittently after prior repairs, but the steering wheel lock incident is the most severe event to date.

Reported

Nov 2025

Incident date

Nov 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

On November 13, 2025, the vehicle, a 2022 Volkswagen Atlas 2.0T (EA888 Gen 3 engine), experienced a catastrophic engine failure while driving on the freeway at 71,602 miles. What Happened A loud bang was heard, followed immediately by heavy smoke billowing from the engine bay and profuse oil expulsion onto the engine, exhaust, and roadway. The failure caused the vehicle to lose all motive power, requiring an immediate, dangerous emergency stop on the freeway, placing the occupants and other motorists at risk. Component Failure and Safety Risk The root cause of the incident is the premature failure of the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) Valve / Oil Separator. This component is defective and subject to Volkswagen's Service Campaign 10LP. The PCV failure created excessive crankcase pressure, which physically blew the dipstick tube clear out of the engine block, demonstrating the catastrophic nature of the pressure spike. This failure forced hot engine oil out of the system. Safety Risk: The sudden loss of engine oil created a high risk of engine seizure and fire due to hot oil spraying onto the exhaust system. This condition resulted in the vehicle being disabled on a high-speed freeway, posing an immediate danger. Confirmation: The vehicle is currently held at an authorized VW service center. The technician's notes confirm the physical result of the pressure failure: ruptured seals (Upper Timing Cover and Cambridge seals) that were forced to leak due to the internal over-pressurization. Manufacturer Awareness: The manufacturer (VWoA) is aware of this specific incident under Case #07146593.

Reported

Nov 2025

Incident date

Nov 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Drumming/Grinding Brakes and my pads and rotors are still have life left on them. This is an ongoing problem.

Reported

Nov 2025

Incident date

Jul 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Vehicle: 2022 Volkswagen Atlas 2.0T (VIN: [XXX] ), current mileage: . Failure: The engine water pump / integrated thermostat housing failed due to a coolant leak. I first noticed coolant odor and dried pink/white residue around the pump area on //. Coolant level dropped between services and I observed active seepage. Dealer diagnosis on // confirmed failed water pump/thermostat module and recommended replacement. Frequency/Progression: Began as a slow weep that progressed to an active leak. Coolant requires top-offs; leak is visible after parking. Safety risk: Sudden coolant loss can cause engine overheating and potential stalling while driving, creating a crash hazard and risk of engine damage. Context: This appears to be the same EA888 2.0T water-pump/thermostat leak pattern documented across VW/Audi vehicles; VW previously extended coverage to 8 yrs/80k miles for many 2014–2021 models in a settlement, but 2022 Atlas is not listed—leaving similar failures unaddressed. (Request ODI review for potential broader coverage.) Attachments/Proof: Photos of residue and leak, dealer repair order/estimate for pump module, service history, and receipts (upload available). Ask: Please record this as a safety-related cooling-system defect and consider investigation given recurrence on EA888 vehicles. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported

Oct 2025

Incident date

Oct 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The oil light often comes on due to low oil inbetween oil changes. This has happened ever since the car was new. I always stop at a local auto parts store and add more oil, but there are no noticeable oil leaks. This is a dangerous issue as it could cause overheating especially if not near a auto parts store. I also always carry extra oil in the back of my vehicle.

Reported

Oct 2025

Incident date

May 2022

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2022 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy after the purchase. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 29,000. It was later discovered that the mileage was 56,279.

Reported

Oct 2025

Incident date

Oct 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

While under warranty the passenger side headlamp unit was replaced. This was about one year ago- now the drive side has gone out on a car that is less than 3 years old. The dealership quoted me $1792.33 for this repair. There is no reason why these should be going out when they are LED. I am part of a facebook group for ATLAS owners and this a known issue. I see the daylight running light on multiple ATLAS vehicles daily when I am driving around town. This should be a recall.

Reported

Oct 2025

Incident date

Oct 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

We were driving on a highway with no cars anywhere near us, did not go under a bridge, outside was sunny and calm weather in the 75 degree range, and our panoramic sunroof suddenly exploded outwards. Glass shattered everywhere and it sounded like a bomb went off in the car. After immediately getting off on an exit ramp to survey what happened, the remaining glass was pushed up and outwards towards the sky proving that nothing hit the sunroof. Our Volkswagen dealership told us to bring it in and they would put it under warranty for a mechanical defect as the panoramic sunroof is the roof of the vehicle. After waiting weeks, Volkswagen corporate denied the warranty claim saying we must have done something to weaken the glass at a previous time. There were no previous issues with the sunroof and this explosion happened very suddenly. Young children were in the vehicle and it was terrifying.

Reported

Sep 2025

Incident date

Jul 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Daytime running lights are both inoperable. This is a known issue with these vehicles. Both went out at the same time and are $2000 to replace. It’s a robbery.

Reported

Sep 2025

Incident date

Sep 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

My Volkswagen Atlas has a recurring check engine light and start/stop error light. The LD pump and valve have been replaced multiple times, but the issue persists. Volkswagen now says the problem is the carbon canister, which is covered by TSB VWP-23-04 (NHTSA ID MC-10235143-0001) extending warranty to 15 years/150,000 miles. The bigger concern is safety: the vehicle has stalled multiple times while driving, including once in an intersection where I completely lost steering and control until the car was towed. This creates a major safety hazard for myself and others on the road. Despite the TSB coverage, Cardinale Volkswagen in Salinas, CA is refusing to replace the carbon canister under warranty. They also charged me a $240 diagnostic fee, even though the issue diagnosed was later found to be warranty-related. My understanding is that diagnosis and repair of warranty defects should be performed at no cost. This is a clear safety defect: sudden stalling in traffic, loss of steering, and repeated failures of emission-related parts. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate these incidents and Volkswagen’s handling of warranty claims, as drivers are being put at risk of accidents, injury, or worse.

Reported

Sep 2025

Incident date

Aug 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Brakes are squealing and grinding noises when i break. This noises are present no matter the speed. VW Dealership from Kearny Mesa VW, San Diego, California USA. Engine: Start/Stop does shutdown during driving after the autostop system. Electric: Sensors is causing false alerts. I deactivated the system, because the system is constantly detecting alerts for no real threats,

Reported

Sep 2025

Incident date

Nov 2024

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The vehicle will completely stop at a red light or in park. Today while in traffic, the car turned completely off. I had to manually restart the car.

Reported

Sep 2025

Incident date

Sep 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2022 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated that while driving approximately 5 MPH, and pressed the brakes when suddenly the second row passenger side captain seat erroneously moved forward. The [XXX] child seated in a high-back booster seat in the second row passenger seat was pushed forward into the rear of the front passenger seat. The child had become trapped between the two seats. While trapped between the seats, the child also experienced distress caused by the seatbelt. The contact was able to free the child from between the two seat,s and the seat was eventually correctly repositioned. The child was later treated for trauma to the chest and abdomen. The cause of the failure was not determined. The local dealer was notified of the failure. The manufacturer was not yet contacted. The failure mileage was 50,000. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported

Sep 2025

Incident date

Jul 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

1 injuries

The contact owns a 2022 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated that while stopped at a traffic light, the vehicle experienced a loss of automotive power, and the vehicle failed to start. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that after several attempts, the vehicle restarted and the contact drove to a parking lot, and then the vehicle was towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the fuel pump was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 77,048.

Reported

Sep 2025

Incident date

Sep 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

Vehicle stalls at low speeds or at a stop while ldling. Requires car be put in park to restart. Dealerships unable duplicate. Issue is occurring with greater frequency. Causing an unsafe condition driving in traffic.

Reported

Aug 2025

Incident date

Aug 2023

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

ENGINE RANDOMLY STOPS WHILE DRIVING, IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD, WARNING SAYS TO MANUALLY RESTART ENGINE. HAPPENS WITH AUTO START/STOP ON OR OFF. LASTEST INCIDENT, WHILE ENTERING AN INTERSECTION TURNING LEFT, ENGINE STOPPED, SAID TO MANUALLY RESTART, STEERING LOCKED UP SO COULD NOT STEER THE VEHICLE. THIS PARTICULAR INCIDENT WAS VERY DANGEROUS PUT ME IN THE MIDDLE OF A LOT OF TRAFFIC, IN AN INTERSECTION. CAR IS BASICALLY UNSAFE TO DRIVE AT THIS POINT. HAD IT TOWED.

Reported

Aug 2025

Incident date

Aug 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

None reported

The contact owns a 2022 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated that while at a stoplight with vehicles in the front and rear, the vehicle suddenly accelerated, lunged forward, and crashed into a Chevrolet pickup truck. The brake pedal was applied but failed to respond. There were no warning lights illuminated. There were reported injuries, a police report, airbag deployment, or a fire. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, who was unable to service the vehicle due to parts. The vehicle was towed to an auto body shop. Then towed back to the same local dealer, where an unknown diagnosis and repair were completed. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The manufacturer reported that the vehicle was not the cause of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000. The VIN was not available.

Reported

Aug 2025

Incident date

Jun 2025

Mileage

Not provided

Outcome flags

Crash

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Audi Q5 Sportback, Q5, 2022-2023 Volkswagen Atlas FL, and Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The engine connecting rod bearings may become damaged, which can result in engine failure.

Risk: A damaged engine can result in engine failure and a stall, increasing the risk of a crash. If the engine failure causes an oil leak, it can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace an affected engine, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 6, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298 and Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are 13i4 (VW) and 13i5 (Audi).

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.

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.

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.

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2022 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The trailer hitch bolts may have been insufficiently tightened.

Risk: Loose bolts may fall out, causing the remaining bolts to break, which could lead to separation of the trailer hitch and trailer, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will tighten the trailer hitch bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 28, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 66N8.

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2022 Volkswagen Atlas FL and 2022-2023 Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The driver-side rear trailing arm bolts may not have been tightened properly, allowing them to loosen and fall out.

Risk: Unsecured bolts may cause the trailing arm to fracture, resulting in a sudden loss of vehicle control and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver side rear trailing arm bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 25, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 42M2.

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.