2018 Volkswagen Atlas Problems & Owner Complaints

Electrical System 109

“The vehicle intermittently displays a “Steering lock faulty, stop!” warning and fails to start. When this occurs, the vehicle cannot be operated at all. This issue has occurred multiple times within a short period and has persisted despite prior repair attempts by authorized Volkswagen dealerships. The failure of the steering lock system prevents the vehicle from starting, creating a safety concern as the vehicle may become unexpectedly inoperable and leave the driver stranded. The repeated nature of this issue raises concerns about the reliability and safety of the vehicle.”
NHTSA complaint #11728119, 2025

“Both low beam headlights went out within two weeks of each other and the vehicle just hit 100,000 miles. Dealership states that replacing the entire headlight assembly is the only fix and will cost $3,000. So now both headlights (safety issue) are out and the vehicle cannot be driven safely. Other VW Atlas vehicles are having the same issue around 50-60K miles. There should be a recall on the head lamps for safety concerns and liability reasons.”
NHTSA complaint #11706755, 2025

“While driving, the vehicle suddenly loses engine power and shuts off without warning. This has happened multiple times and creates a serious safety hazard because it happen in traffic multiple times . The problem appears to be related to the fuel pump control module and/or electrical wiring failure. Additionally, the power windows stopped functioning due to a failure in the driver door wiring harness, which is a known issue on this vehicle model year. The electrical malfunction and engine stall appear to be connected. This issue has been repaired because the dealership stated the warranty is…”
NHTSA complaint #11697983, 2025

Air Bags 100 2 crash 2 injury

“MY WIFE SLID INTO A CURB DURING A LEFT-HAND TURN INTO OUR NEIGHBORHOOD DUE TO ICE. SHE DAMAGED THE RIGHT FRONT WHEEL AND A COUPLE MECHANICS, SCRATCHING THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL AS WELL. THERE IS NO DAMAGE TO ANY OTHER PART OF THE EXTERIOR; HOWEVER, THIS CURB IMPACT SET OFF ALL OF THE INTERIOR SIDE AIRBAGS, INCLUDING ONE SEAT AIRBAG. MY WIFE RECEIVED MINOR PAIN FROM AIRBAG IMPACT BUT THANKFULLY MY CHILDREN WERE NOT IN THE CAR BECAUSE A SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYED DIRECTLY INSIDE MY CHILD'S HEAD RESTRAINT. IN THE WORDS OF THE INSURANCE ADJUSTER, AND THE SERVICE TECHNICIANS AT MULTIPLE DEALERS AND BODY SHOP…”
NHTSA complaint #11076693, 2017 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 VOLKSWAGEN ATLAS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE HIS WIFE WAS DRIVING AT 45 MPH, SHE HAD HIT A STORM DRAIN ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WHICH CAUSED ALL SIDE CURTAIN AND PASSENGER AIR BAGS TO DEPLOY. THE VEHICLE SHUT OFF AS THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. THE POLICE WERE CALLED AND A POLICE REPORT (#20S000488) WAS FILED. NO MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS GIVEN AT THE SCENE; THE DRIVER SUFFERED MINOR SCRATCHES AND BRUISES CAUSE BY THE SEAT BELT. THERE WAS NO DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE; HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO MIKE STEVEN VOLKSWAGEN (11211 E KELLOGG DR N, WICHITA, KS 67207) FOR AN INVES…”
NHTSA complaint #11299588, 2020 · 1 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 VOLKSWAGEN ATLAS. WHILE DRIVING LESS THAN 5 MPH, THE VEHICLE SLID ONTO A CURB, CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT BOTH THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE CURTAIN AIR BAGS AND THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG ERRONEOUSLY DEPLOYED. ALSO, THE FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BELTS WERE DAMAGED. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A BODY SHOP. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES. HAWK VOLKSWAGEN (2861 WEST JEFFERSON ST, JOLIET, IL) AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. T…”
NHTSA complaint #11181309, 2018 · crash

Engine 97 3 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 VOLKSWAGEN ATLAS. WHILE DRIVING 15 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL SWEET AND MUSTY ODOR EMERGING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT AND OCCUPANTS SUSTAINED HEADACHES AND NAUSEA DUE TO THE ODOR. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS NOT RECEIVED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO WINN VOLKSWAGEN (39695 BALENTINE DR, NEWARK, CA 94560, (510) 344-2013) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THERE WAS A COOLANT LEAK AND AN ENGINE REPLACEMENT WAS NEEDED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: 190150480. NO FU…”
NHTSA complaint #11196521, 2018 · 3 injury(ies)

“Vehicle has heavy leak from water pump. Most vehicles of this model have extended warentee due to class action lawsuit from failing water pump, primarily the 4cylinder models, but it is a well known issue among the V6 models, and some of those are covered as well. Vehicle has 56K miles at this time.”
NHTSA complaint #11729447, 2026

“Multiple low coolant alerts. Dealer inspected 3 times and denied problem while vehicle still under warranty. Dealer simply topped off coolant and denied finding leaks or any other issue. Now low coolant again and EPC/ check engine light. Took car to independent owned shop who confirmed 2 water pump failures. Dealer refusing accountability for missing water pump issues that led to possible overheating damage. Big bill but dealer says my vehicle is not part of the ongoing water pump issues with other 2018 Atlas. My vehicle is being repaired by independent shop at my expense. Available for inspe…”
NHTSA complaint #11726493, 2026

Service Brakes 75 2 crash 3 injury

“ON MANY OCCASIONS, THE AUTOMATIC BRAKING SYSTEM AND BLIND SPOT DETECTION SYSTEMS HAVE ENGAGED AT INAPPROPRIATE TIMES. MOST RECENTLY, THE AUTOMATIC BRAKING SYSTEM ENGAGED WHEN SAFELY MERGING WITH PROPER SIGNALING FROM THE RIGHT LANE, WHICH WAS ENDING, TO THE NEXT TO THE LEFT LANE WHEN THE ONLY VEHICLE IN THE VICINITY WAS FULLY IN THE LEFT TURN LANE. THERE WAS ENOUGH SPACE BETWEEN OUR VEHICLE AND THE VEHICLE BEHIND TO AVOID A REAR END COLLISION BUT THE HARD BRAKING WAS UNNECESSARY AND COULD HAVE CAUSED DAMAGE OR MORE SERIOUS INJURIES THAN THOSE SUSTAINED BY THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER CAUSED BY THE…”
NHTSA complaint #11300603, 2020 · 2 injury(ies)

“AS I WAS GOING STRAIGHT THROUGH A BUSY INTERSECTION THE CAR AUTOMATIC BRAKING TURNED ON AND CAUSED THE CAR TO STOP IN THE MIDDLE OF THE INTERSECTION. I WAS ALMOST T-BONED BY ANOTHER CAR. THERE ARE NOTHING IN FRONT OF ME. CLEAR DAY. 85 DEGREES. 9 AM.”
NHTSA complaint #11228895, 2019 · 1 injury(ies)

“EVEN THOUGH MY VEHICLE WAS NOT COVERED BY PREVIOUS RECALLS I HAVE JUST HAD A PROBLEM WITH THE BRAKES. THE BRAKE PETAL WENT ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR, AND THE VEHICLE DID NOT STOP. THE VEHICLE WAS MOVING LESS THAN 5 MPH. ACTIVE START STOP SYSTEM (FUEL EFFICIENCY) WAS ENGAGED BUT I DO NOT KNOW IF IT WAS ACTIVE. VEHICLE WAS IN STOP AND GO TRAFFIC HEADED DOWNHILL. I WAS EXITING A PARKING GARAGE ON A CITY STREET.”
NHTSA complaint #11204624, 2019 · crash

Unknown Or Other 72 1 crash 3 injury

“SUNROOF GLASS EXPLODED FOR NO APPARENT REASON.”
NHTSA complaint #11161837, 2018 · 2 injury(ies)

“I was driving on 2nd Street and realized I wasn’t going to make it through the light, so I stopped. I noticed that I had stopped in the crosswalk, so I decided to back up. Before backing up, I checked everything—I looked in my left mirror, my right mirror, behind me, and also at the rearview camera. There were no cars in sight behind me. As I started backing up, I heard a beeping sound indicating there might be a car behind me. I checked my mirrors again and looked at the camera, but there was still nothing there. I continued backing up and kept hearing the beeping sound. I checked again—mirr…”
NHTSA complaint #11735700, 2026 · 1 injury(ies)

“My infotainment system and back up camera have been having issues that I have been trying to get addressed since April 2026. I was told this is a known issue for VWs from the dealership service department and that I should replace the infotainment which has resolved these problems. I had to wait for the part to arrive, the infotainment center was replaced June 1, 2026. When I got the car back, the back up camera was again working but the infotainment center was again cutting in and out and glitching/ turning off. I brought it back to the dealership who informed me there had been a service upda…”
NHTSA complaint #11750691, 2026 · crash

Forward Collision Avoidance 30 3 injury

“First time-Driving on road at 45 mph when my car started flashing red for a forward collision and my cars automatic emergency brake stopped me immediately with nothing in front of me on a clear road. The stop was so forceful we thought we were hit from behind with no one around us. The force causing both my teenage son and I to have strained necks with the force of us stopping immediately. I was forced so far forward my head hit the windshield. Second time-driving in a parking lot at 10 mph when my cars emergency red flashed in dashboard then immediately stopping my car with no car or speed…”
NHTSA complaint #11510748, 2023 · 2 injury(ies)

“I was driving on 2nd Street and realized I wasn’t going to make it through the light, so I stopped. I noticed that I had stopped in the crosswalk, so I decided to back up. Before backing up, I checked everything—I looked in my left mirror, my right mirror, behind me, and also at the rearview camera. There were no cars in sight behind me. As I started backing up, I heard a beeping sound indicating there might be a car behind me. I checked my mirrors again and looked at the camera, but there was still nothing there. I continued backing up and kept hearing the beeping sound. I checked again—mirr…”
NHTSA complaint #11735700, 2026 · 1 injury(ies)

“When attempting to drive out of a steep driveway to turn onto a main arterial, the car interpreted the hill as a potential collision and turned on the emergency braking. This left me half-way in the lane, at a complete stop, unable to accelerate and continue driving, with on-coming traffic at over 40mph heading toward me in what would be a T-bone collision. Traffic stopped giving me time to reverse back up the driveway. I further backed up to come down the driveway at a different angle but the problem repeated itself again. It was multiple seconds before I could even continue to accelerate and…”
NHTSA complaint #11753906, 2026

Fuel/Propulsion System 30

“Several times before I got the car stalled in the car wash which I thought that could no be important however yesterday Sunday 12, driving on I4 by Tampa bay in Florida when traffic was stocked and slow suddenly the car went off, so I geared neutral and started again. Then happened twice in total three times.”
NHTSA complaint #11750086, 2026

“Gas tank melted on top of the tank next to drive shaft and a hole was leaking gas- we are keeping the tank that was removed for investigation. Extreme safety issue that put my daughter and granddaughters at risk of fire/explosion when it was unknown that there was a gas leak while driving. The part was inspected by a repair shop in Lake Havasu AZ as well as the Capistrano Volkswagen, CA dealership and no explanation of the cause. Since the vehicle is out of warranty the VW.com and the dealership refused to replace without full charge. Insurance claim has been filed. There were no warnin…”
NHTSA complaint #11703840, 2025

“While driving, the vehicle suddenly loses engine power and shuts off without warning. This has happened multiple times and creates a serious safety hazard because it happen in traffic multiple times . The problem appears to be related to the fuel pump control module and/or electrical wiring failure. Additionally, the power windows stopped functioning due to a failure in the driver door wiring harness, which is a known issue on this vehicle model year. The electrical malfunction and engine stall appear to be connected. This issue has been repaired because the dealership stated the warranty is…”
NHTSA complaint #11697983, 2025

Steering 24 1 crash 3 injury

“ON MANY OCCASIONS, THE AUTOMATIC BRAKING SYSTEM AND BLIND SPOT DETECTION SYSTEMS HAVE ENGAGED AT INAPPROPRIATE TIMES. MOST RECENTLY, THE AUTOMATIC BRAKING SYSTEM ENGAGED WHEN SAFELY MERGING WITH PROPER SIGNALING FROM THE RIGHT LANE, WHICH WAS ENDING, TO THE NEXT TO THE LEFT LANE WHEN THE ONLY VEHICLE IN THE VICINITY WAS FULLY IN THE LEFT TURN LANE. THERE WAS ENOUGH SPACE BETWEEN OUR VEHICLE AND THE VEHICLE BEHIND TO AVOID A REAR END COLLISION BUT THE HARD BRAKING WAS UNNECESSARY AND COULD HAVE CAUSED DAMAGE OR MORE SERIOUS INJURIES THAN THOSE SUSTAINED BY THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER CAUSED BY THE…”
NHTSA complaint #11300603, 2020 · 2 injury(ies)

“Dealer sold flood damaged 2020 Atlas 98k miles as safe vehicle. Found severe rust corrosion on steering column that could break while driving causing loss of control crash death. Also found 7 areas of toxic mold inside causing allergic reaction and breathing problems. Mold in seats, carpet, AC system. Dealer refused to repair and forced trade for overpriced 2023 Explorer with high loan. Vehicle unsafe - life threatening defect hidden by dealer. Steering and body structure compromised by flood water. Have photos of corrosion and mold as evidence. Vehicle available for inspection. Injury: Allerg…”
NHTSA complaint #11753639, 2026 · 1 injury(ies)

“I tried to merge to the left lane on the highway I-55 S (Chicago, IL), but the steering wheel was out of control and cannot be operated functionally all of sudden, which hit on the right side curb. There was no ice or water on the road. The weather is clear.”
NHTSA complaint #11449051, 2022 · crash

Seats 17 5 injury

“Dealer sold flood damaged 2020 Atlas 98k miles as safe vehicle. Found severe rust corrosion on steering column that could break while driving causing loss of control crash death. Also found 7 areas of toxic mold inside causing allergic reaction and breathing problems. Mold in seats, carpet, AC system. Dealer refused to repair and forced trade for overpriced 2023 Explorer with high loan. Vehicle unsafe - life threatening defect hidden by dealer. Steering and body structure compromised by flood water. Have photos of corrosion and mold as evidence. Vehicle available for inspection. Injury: Allerg…”
NHTSA complaint #11753639, 2026 · 1 injury(ies)

“The contact owns a 2018 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated while, pulling out of the driveway traveling approximately 5 mph the second-row seat sprung forward, with a child utilizing a car seat. The latch was down. The occupant in the car seat struck her head on the passenger seat and medical attention was provided. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified. The approximate mileage was 17,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11438175, 2021 · 1 injury(ies)

“MY 6-YEAR-OLD SON WAS IN THE MIDDLE LEFT SEAT, I PULLED THE CAR OUT OF GARAGE AND DROVE UP TO THE INTERSECTION NEXT TO MY HOME AND APPLIED GENTLE BREAK. HIS SEAT CAME ALL THE WAY IN THE FRONT AND HIS NOSE HIT THE DRIVER SEAT. THIS IS THE THIRD TIME IT HAS HAPPENED THAT SEAT WAS NOT PROPERLY LOCKED. AFTER IT HAPPENED SECOND TIME, WE HAVE BEEN CAREFUL TO CHECK THE SEAT BEFORE WE START DRIVING. WE HEARD THE CLICK SOUND INDICATING THAT THE SEAT WAS PROPERLY LOCKED. IT'S BEEN A TERRIFYING EXPERIENCE FOR THE YOUNG ONE. I'M ALSO ATTACHING THE PICTURE OF HIS BRUISED NOSE.”
NHTSA complaint #11395002, 2021 · 1 injury(ies)

Power Train 15 1 crash

“THE VEHICLE FAILED TO STOP ON A CITY STREET AFTER FULL APPLICATION OF BRAKES CAUSING COLLISION AND DAMAGE TO FRONT BUMPER . I HAVE NOT RECEIVED ANY NOTIFICATION FROM WALKS WAGON THAT CERAMIC COATING ON THE BRAKES NEEDS TO BE FIXED AND WAS NOT AWARE OF ANY BRAKE ISSUES PRIOR TO THE COLLISION .THE VEHICLE HAS APPROXIMATELY 4100 MILES AND CURRENTLY AT THE COLLISION CENTRE .”
NHTSA complaint #11118107, 2018 · crash

“The water pump failed catastrophically at 63,100 miles, forcing a complete road-side breakdown and damaging the radiator. This is a known manufacturing defect affecting the 3.6L VR6 composite plastic pumps. Due to the failure of the pump, the radiator tank became hot causing a hole to form in the radiator and needing to be replaced. I still own this car and you may inspect it if needed. My safety was at risk as well as others safely was put at risk because this caused car to over heat leaving me broken down on the side of the road. My mechanic at specialized auto repair confirmed and repor…”
NHTSA complaint #11750721, 2025

“THE EPC LIGHT WILL COME ON AT ANYTIME. MEANING WHILE DRIVING ON A STREET HIGHWAY OR FREEWAY. WHICH IS A SAFETY ISSUE. THE VEICHLE WILL LOSE POWER AND START TO SHAKE. THE LIGHT WILL GO OFF ONCE TURNED OFF AND TURNED BACK ON. THERE MOST BE SOME ELECTRICAL ISSUE. NOT SURE WHY THERE HAS NOT BEEN A RECALL ON THE 2018. THEY HAVE MANY COMPLAINTS AND ISSUES. THIS HAS BEEN AN ISSUE FOR MONTHS.”
NHTSA complaint #11646925, 2025

Exterior Lighting 14

“Both my low beam headlamps went out WHILE DRIVING. This is a major safety concern. It is also not an easy or inexpensive fix. The entire assembly must be replaced and not just a bulb. It is a $3000 replacement cost. The LED lamp should NEVER go out. Isn't that why LED was put in these lights? Why did VW make a headlamp that must be completely replaced and why are they charging $1000 for each headlight?”
NHTSA complaint #11731267, 2026

“The passenger side low beam headlights failed at roughly 100k miles. The replacement part and labor quote from the dealership was roughly $1,500. I was able to find an OEM part online for $800 and install myself. Roughly 12,000 miles later the driver side low beam headlight has failed which will require a replacement as well.”
NHTSA complaint #11718128, 2025

“LED Low beam headlights failed while driving at night from a long distance trip. This presented a major safety issue for my family since we could not see the road. This is a common problem facing many VW Atlas owners with low milage too Also, VW will not cover the costs involved since each headlamp costs $1200 and is not covered under their highest tier warranty plan (Platinum Warranty) that we purchased. Now we have a family car that we can only drive during the daytime. California requires daytime running lights on rainy days too which also presents a visibility risk to my family. I recentl…”
NHTSA complaint #11712274, 2025

Seat Belts 13 1 crash

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 VOLKSWAGEN ATLAS. WHILE DRIVING LESS THAN 5 MPH, THE VEHICLE SLID ONTO A CURB, CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT BOTH THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE CURTAIN AIR BAGS AND THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG ERRONEOUSLY DEPLOYED. ALSO, THE FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BELTS WERE DAMAGED. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A BODY SHOP. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES. HAWK VOLKSWAGEN (2861 WEST JEFFERSON ST, JOLIET, IL) AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. T…”
NHTSA complaint #11181309, 2018 · crash

“Back seat belt won’t un latch buckled in behind diver seat daughter is skinny enough to squeeze her way out safety issue. Just stopped working and now is stuck.”
NHTSA complaint #11650448, 2025

“Unknown- manufacturer still has not found a remedy for the seatbelt air bag issue and it’s been a year since they announced it”
NHTSA complaint #11577754, 2024

Electronic Stability Control (Esc) 11 2 injury

“ON MANY OCCASIONS, THE AUTOMATIC BRAKING SYSTEM AND BLIND SPOT DETECTION SYSTEMS HAVE ENGAGED AT INAPPROPRIATE TIMES. MOST RECENTLY, THE AUTOMATIC BRAKING SYSTEM ENGAGED WHEN SAFELY MERGING WITH PROPER SIGNALING FROM THE RIGHT LANE, WHICH WAS ENDING, TO THE NEXT TO THE LEFT LANE WHEN THE ONLY VEHICLE IN THE VICINITY WAS FULLY IN THE LEFT TURN LANE. THERE WAS ENOUGH SPACE BETWEEN OUR VEHICLE AND THE VEHICLE BEHIND TO AVOID A REAR END COLLISION BUT THE HARD BRAKING WAS UNNECESSARY AND COULD HAVE CAUSED DAMAGE OR MORE SERIOUS INJURIES THAN THOSE SUSTAINED BY THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER CAUSED BY THE…”
NHTSA complaint #11300603, 2020 · 2 injury(ies)

“The contact owns a 2018 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the Auto Stop warning message was displayed and a loud audible beep coming from the vehicle to alert that there were vehicles ahead even though there were no vehicles ahead. Several unknown warning messages were displayed, and the vehicle then inadvertently steered to the right into oncoming traffic. The contact was able to regain control of the steering wheel however, the EPC warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to drive to her residence; however, the vehicle was not able to…”
NHTSA complaint #11464530, 2022

“MARCH 5, 2020. 2018 VW ATLAS, 2017 MID-YEAR DELIVERY. THERE HAVE BEEN MULTIPLE OCCASIONS OF EMERGENCY BRAKING BEING PERFORMED BY THE CAR WITHOUT DRIVING CONDITION NEEDING THE SAFETY INTERVENTION. THERE HAVE BEEN FIVE OCCURRENCES TO DATE WITH THE VEHICLE: 1. DRIVING I-75 IN TO ATLANTA --WHILE DRIVING NEXT TO AN 18 WHEELER (18-W) [TANKER] , THE CAR SLAMMED ON THE BRAKES WHILE AT A SPEED AROUND 75 UNTIL THE CAR WAS BEHIND THE REAR OF THE TRAILER. THERE WAS NO CONDITION FOR NEED THIS REACTION (THE 18-W AND I MAINTAINED LANE CONTROL.) 2. SOME RANDOM MONTHS LATER, THE CAR PERFORMED A EMERGENCY…”
NHTSA complaint #11316386, 2020

Vehicle Speed Control 11

“Several times before I got the car stalled in the car wash which I thought that could no be important however yesterday Sunday 12, driving on I4 by Tampa bay in Florida when traffic was stocked and slow suddenly the car went off, so I geared neutral and started again. Then happened twice in total three times.”
NHTSA complaint #11750086, 2026

“While driving my car made a loud beep sound and Faulty Brake Booster appeared on the dash and the BRAKE light came on and the brakes would not work properly. I was almost rear ended because of this.”
NHTSA complaint #11614362, 2024

“My 2018 Volkswagen Atlas has a defect that has impaired my ability to use the vehicle as intended. It is not only unsafe but I am in fear of driving freeways because I do not know when my car will cut off. Manufactures were fully aware of their defective products. I have read forums pertaining to the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas engine sputtering (Causes and Diagnosis). It states that the causes could be a bad fuel system, ignition system,MAF sensor, or bad converter. I have owned my vehicle for over a year and a half. During this time my vehicle has repeatedly started sputtering, deccelerated and…”
NHTSA complaint #11532710, 2022

Suspension 9

“The contact owns a 2018 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated while driving 10 MPH, the contact heard an abnormal noise and the rear of the vehicle jumped. The contact exited the vehicle and became aware that the rear coil spring had fractured. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and determined that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V904000 (Suspension). The failure mileage was approximately 74,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11554934, 2023

“THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE DROPPED 5" TO 6" AFTER DRIVING APPROX. 400MILES. THE DRIVER SIDE WHEEL WELL IS 1.5" FROM THE TIRE & THE PASSENGER SIDE IS 2" AWAY. THE WHEEL WELL HAS A "WARPED" WHEEL WELL. THE SPRINGS SEEMS TO BE LOCKED OR DROPPED. LOOKING AT THE ATLAS IN PROFILE THE REAR IS LOWER THAN THE FRONT. BEFORE THE TRIP I WAS ABLE TO WALK UNDER THE TAILGATE WHEN OPEN WITHOUT HITTING MY HEAD & NOW THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE IS LOW, I HAVE TO BEND OVER TO PREVENT HITTING MY HEAD. PLEASE NOTE, I AM NOT A TRAINED SERVICE TECH. I AM AN OWNER; I AM DOING A PROCESS OF ELIMINATION FOR WHY THE REAR IS LOW…”
NHTSA complaint #11328100, 2020

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 VOLKSWAGEN ATLAS. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V904000 (SUSPENSION). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE. VOLKSWAGEN OF ASHEVILLE (621 BREVARD RD, ASHEVILLE, NC 28806, (828) 232-4000) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.*PM CONSUMER STATES THAT DEALER INFORMED THEM THAT PARTS WERE AVAILABLE. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN IN AND SUSPENSI…”
NHTSA complaint #11257737, 2019

Structure 8 1 crash 1 injury

“Dealer sold flood damaged 2020 Atlas 98k miles as safe vehicle. Found severe rust corrosion on steering column that could break while driving causing loss of control crash death. Also found 7 areas of toxic mold inside causing allergic reaction and breathing problems. Mold in seats, carpet, AC system. Dealer refused to repair and forced trade for overpriced 2023 Explorer with high loan. Vehicle unsafe - life threatening defect hidden by dealer. Steering and body structure compromised by flood water. Have photos of corrosion and mold as evidence. Vehicle available for inspection. Injury: Allerg…”
NHTSA complaint #11753639, 2026 · 1 injury(ies)

“THE VEHICLE FAILED TO STOP ON A CITY STREET AFTER FULL APPLICATION OF BRAKES CAUSING COLLISION AND DAMAGE TO FRONT BUMPER . I HAVE NOT RECEIVED ANY NOTIFICATION FROM WALKS WAGON THAT CERAMIC COATING ON THE BRAKES NEEDS TO BE FIXED AND WAS NOT AWARE OF ANY BRAKE ISSUES PRIOR TO THE COLLISION .THE VEHICLE HAS APPROXIMATELY 4100 MILES AND CURRENTLY AT THE COLLISION CENTRE .”
NHTSA complaint #11118107, 2018 · crash

“Several times before I got the car stalled in the car wash which I thought that could no be important however yesterday Sunday 12, driving on I4 by Tampa bay in Florida when traffic was stocked and slow suddenly the car went off, so I geared neutral and started again. Then happened twice in total three times.”
NHTSA complaint #11750086, 2026

Lane Departure 4 1 injury

“I was driving on 2nd Street and realized I wasn’t going to make it through the light, so I stopped. I noticed that I had stopped in the crosswalk, so I decided to back up. Before backing up, I checked everything—I looked in my left mirror, my right mirror, behind me, and also at the rearview camera. There were no cars in sight behind me. As I started backing up, I heard a beeping sound indicating there might be a car behind me. I checked my mirrors again and looked at the camera, but there was still nothing there. I continued backing up and kept hearing the beeping sound. I checked again—mirr…”
NHTSA complaint #11735700, 2026 · 1 injury(ies)

“Vehicle would indicate normal assistance features were no longer available. Then after sitting for the evening and trying to start in the morning the car would not turn over. Could recharge the battery and turn over no issues. Again after sitting for a little while the car battery would be dead again and not want to turn over.”
NHTSA complaint #11518662, 2023

“The ACC and lane assist will not work. There is no obstruction of view from any sensor or camera. This is a known problem with VW and they haven’t done anything about this. This is a 2018 model. There is no reason for this to be happening.”
NHTSA complaint #11485539, 2022

Back Over Prevention 3

“The contact owns a 2018 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated that while reversing, the backup camera became inoperable. During the failure, the message "Park Pilot Inoperable" was displayed. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The local dealer was not contacted. The approximate failure mileage was 80,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11519434, 2023

“Vehicle would indicate normal assistance features were no longer available. Then after sitting for the evening and trying to start in the morning the car would not turn over. Could recharge the battery and turn over no issues. Again after sitting for a little while the car battery would be dead again and not want to turn over.”
NHTSA complaint #11518662, 2023

“The Blind Spot and Rear traffic alert keep on turning themselves off. This has been happening randomly since 2019 and the vehicle has been back to the dealer in excess of 20 times. This is a major safety issue as my wife doesn’t always realize that these systems have decided to go offline. The vehicle has been in and out of the dealer and VW technical services have been involved but is no resolution. The vehicle now has 80k miles on it but the problem first occurred at 25k miles.”
NHTSA complaint #11473642, 2019

Engine And Engine Cooling 3

“The contact owns a 2018 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated that while driving on several occasions at various speeds, "low coolant" and "overheating" messages and the check engine warning light illuminated. On the first two occasions, the low coolant message appeared. The vehicle was pulled to the side of the road and inspected, and she observed a leak under the engine compartment. The vehicle was taken to the same dealer twice, where it was diagnosed that the water pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired twice, but the failure reoccurred approximately two years later. The conta…”
NHTSA complaint #11737402, 2026

“The contact owns a 2018 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH with her children in the rear seats, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact was able to push the vehicle to the side of the road with the assistance of bystanders. The contact was able to jumpstart the vehicle and drove to her destination. The contact stated that the failure reoccurred on another occasion. The vehicle was pushed to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the cylinder head needed to be replace…”
NHTSA complaint #11491838, 2022

“The contact owns a 2018 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the “Low Coolant” message was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer however, no cause for the failure was found. The contact added coolant however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was 15,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11542658, 2018

Fuel System 3

“The contact owns a 2018 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the check engine, oil, and EPC warning lights illuminated, and the vehicle decelerated and failed to accelerate above 20 MPH. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer who diagnosed and determined that the fuel pump was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted regarding the failure. The failure mileage was 94,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11610497, 2024

“The contact owns a 2018 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated that while the vehicle was being repaired under recall, the contact was informed that the fuel tank had collapsed. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was diagnosed by the dealer and the contact was informed that there was a gap between the band and the fuel tank which caused the collapse. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 125,500.”
NHTSA complaint #11549866, 2023

“2018 VOLKSWAGEN ATLAS. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO FUEL TANK ISSUES. *LD *TR”
NHTSA complaint #11174212, 2018

Visibility/Wiper 3

“The contact owns a 2018 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V215000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the air conditioning system would activate unintendedly. Additionally, the windshield wiper blade speed would fluctuate while functioning. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 45,000. VIN tool confirms parts no…”
NHTSA complaint #11562640, 2023

“WHILE DRIVING OUR VEHICLE DOWN THE FREEWAY OUR SUNROOF UNEXPECTEDLY EXPLODED OUTWARDS. THE GLASS IS CLEARLY FORCED FROM THE INSIDE OUT. VW DEALERSHIP AND VW GLASS EXPERT CONCLUDED THAT THERE WAS NO SIGN OF OUTSIDE INTRUSION THAT WOULD OF CAUSED THE GLASS TO BREAK. FORTUNATELY, THAT MORNING WE CLOSED THE SCREEN THAT COVERS THE PANORAMIC SUNROOF. ONE OF OUR CHILDREN WAS IN THE BACKSEAT AND HAD THE COVER NOT BEEN CLOSED THEN THEY WOULD OF BEEN COVERED IN GLASS. VW HAS DENIED OUR CLAIM FOR A LEMON BUYBACK. WHILE VW HAS REPAIRED THE SUNROOF, WE FEEL THAT THIS REPRESENTS A STRUCTURAL DEFECT AND TH…”
NHTSA complaint #11307710, 2020

“I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT ABOUT 70MPH WITH NO OTHER CARS NEARBY WHEN I HEARD A LOUD EXPLOSION/GUNSHOT SOUND AND THEN THE GLASS FROM SUNROOF RAINED DOWN ALL OVER ME. LUCKILY, I ONLY SUSTAINED MINOR ABRASIONS TO MY NECK/BACK FROM THE GLASS. WHEN I LOOKED UP, MOST OF THE GLASS FROM THE FRONT PART OF MY PANORAMIC SUNROOF WAS GONE. WE TOOK IT TO THE DEALERSHIP, WHO CLAIMED THAT IT MUST HAVE BEEN A ROCK, HOWEVER, NO OTHER VEHICLES WERE NEARBY AND I WAS NOWHERE NEAR AN OVERPASS. THEY RECOMMEND FILING AN INSURANCE CLAIM, WHICH I DID, AND USAA COVERED IT.”
NHTSA complaint #11181685, 2019

Equipment 2

“Hi, While transporting my bike, the rack failed to secure it and dropped it backwards, basically it didn't hold the horizontal position and both, the rack and the bike dropped/fell backwards, the bike hit a wall and got damaged. Now Kuat posted a note related to a recall for the Kuat transfer v2 (my rack) and I have submitted multiple requests to Kuat using their form, called them and had no answer after a month trying to get their assistance. Per their instructions, you can help us get their assistance. What I do not want is that rack anymore, I need Kuat (or this Administration) to reimburs…”
NHTSA complaint #11600332, 2024

“2018 VOLKSWAGEN ATLAS. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO VEHICLE BEING UNRESPONSIVE. *LD CONSUMER STATES THAT VEHICLE HAS HAD SEVERAL ISSUES SINCE PURCHASING IT. ON 05/07/18 , WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, VEHICLE BECAME UNRESPONSIVE. VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO DEALERSHIP. VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. ON 02/21/19 THE VEHICLE'S REMOTE START STOPPED WORKING AND THE COOLANT LIGHT CAME ON. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DEALER AND THE CYLINDER HEAD AND CATALYST WERE REPLACED. ON 05/30/19 THE A/C UNIT WOULD NOT BLOW OUT COLD AIR AND VIBRATED WHEN TURNED ON. THE A/C BLOWER MOTOR WAS REPLACED. ON 07/02/19 A LIGHT CAME ON THE DASH A…”
NHTSA complaint #11317396, 2018

Wheels 2

“Today 3 times while driving my car braked on its own, emitted a loud noise and “Brake Booster Faulty” displays along with the ABS and Brake late. It also told me to power off the car. Prior to this there were no problems however I am now worried for safety reasons.”
NHTSA complaint #11605914, 2024

“AT AROUND 60 TO 70 MPH, THE VEHICLE HAS A SLIGHT VIBRATION WHICH SHAKES THE CAR AND THE STEERING WHEEL. ALONG WITH VIBRATION THERE IS A SLIGHT FLUTTERING NOISE AT THE SAME TIME. THE CAR HAS BEEN AT THE DEALERSHIP FOR REPAIRS THREE DIFFERENT TIMES BUT THE DEALERSHIP CLAIMS THIS IS JUST HIGHWAY NOISE. I TOLD THE DEALERSHIP THAT THIS VIBRATION AND NOISE IS ON DIFFERENT KINDS OF HIGHWAY SURFACE. I BROUGHT THE NEW ON NOVEMBER 27, 2017 AND DROVE IT HOME FROM CINCINNATI OH TO MY HOME IN NEWARK OH ABOUT 150 MILES. I NOTICED THE VIBRATION AND NOISE ON THE TRIP HOME FROM THE DEALERSHIP AND NOTIFIED…”
NHTSA complaint #11120865, 2017

Latches/Locks/Linkages 1 1 injury

“The contact owns a 2018 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated while, pulling out of the driveway traveling approximately 5 mph the second-row seat sprung forward, with a child utilizing a car seat. The latch was down. The occupant in the car seat struck her head on the passenger seat and medical attention was provided. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified. The approximate mileage was 17,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11438175, 2021 · 1 injury(ies)

Other/I Am Not Sure 1

“Hi, While transporting my bike, the rack failed to secure it and dropped it backwards, basically it didn't hold the horizontal position and both, the rack and the bike dropped/fell backwards, the bike hit a wall and got damaged. Now Kuat posted a note related to a recall for the Kuat transfer v2 (my rack) and I have submitted multiple requests to Kuat using their form, called them and had no answer after a month trying to get their assistance. Per their instructions, you can help us get their assistance. What I do not want is that rack anymore, I need Kuat (or this Administration) to reimburs…”
NHTSA complaint #11600332, 2024

Tires 1

“The tire started making a sound like every 15 miles or so like it was going over a speed burn (small bumps) on the side of the freeway. I pulled over and checked the tread for rubbing, nails, scarring and there was nothing. After about 60 miles or so and the sound occurring 4 times the TPM light came on. Shortly afterwards the sidewall blew out in 4 separate spots in the tire. I had the vehicle towed and the tires replaced. All tires were filled back up to their recommended PSI. It’s been about 3 weeks and now a second tire (same model) is making the same noise. I am having it replaced before…”
NHTSA complaint #11616017, 2024

Visibility 1

“The contact owns a 2018 Volkswagen Atlas. The stated while his wife was driving during heavy rain conditions, the front driver’s side windshield wiper failed to operate. The vehicle was taken to a dealer. The vehicle was pending to be diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 55,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11478590, 2022