The verdict
A struggling mid-size suv, strong on space and held back by efficiency.
The launch-year 2018 Atlas is one of the roomiest mid-size three-row SUVs, with a third row adults can actually use and 96.8 cu ft of cargo space. It also has top crash-test results and a 6-year/72,000-mile warranty. The trade-offs are big ones: the volume VR6 4Motion gets just 19 MPG combined, the engine is slow, and this first model year has poor reliability ratings and 17 NHTSA recall campaigns. It suits space-first families. Check recall completion carefully before buying, and favor an upper trim if you want automatic emergency braking.
Jump to scoresStrengths
- A genuinely adult-sized third row and huge cargo hold
- Excellent crash protection
- Strong, transferable warranty
What holds it back
- Dated technology, even for 2018
- Thirsty, especially with AWD
- Weak resale value and pricey upkeep
Top alternatives
Cars shoppers cross-shop with the Volkswagen Atlas
2.79B-
Kia TellurideMid-Size SUVBetter at: Resale valueNearly the same space and towing for similar money, but with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and roughly 56% five-year resale that erase the Atlas's ownership-cost problem.
Compare
3.03B
Hyundai PalisadeMid-Size SUVBetter at: Long-term valueA fresher, better-equipped three-row with an eighth seat, stronger warranty coverage and a much better depreciation curve — worth the smaller discount.
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2.88B-
Toyota Grand HighlanderMid-Size SUVBetter at: Fuel efficiencyDelivers an equally usable third row with a hybrid option in the high-30s MPG, cutting the Atlas's roughly $2,350/yr fuel bill close to half.
CompareHow it's evolved
9 scored model years · 2018–2026
Subject scores by year
Hover or tap a score to see what moved it versus the year before. A corner mark flags a big swing.
| Year | Performance | Efficiency | Safety | Space | Cost | Reliability | Tech | Use-case | Driving | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 46 | 39 | 80 | 71 | 48 | 55 | 66 | 69 | 61 | 66 |
| 2025 | 45 | 33 | 77 | 71 | 46 | 52 | 68 | 68 | 59 | 66 |
| 2024 | 45 | 39 | 77 | 69 | 46 | 48 | 64 | 64 | 55 | 67 |
| 2023 | 42 | 38 | 64 | 71 | 51 | 54 | 54 | 61 | 58 | 59 |
| 2022 | 42 | 38 | 64 | 70 | 53 | 51 | 53 | 60 | 58 | 58 |
| 2021 | 42 | 38 | 66 | 70 | 53 | 51 | 54 | 60 | 58 | 61 |
| 2020 | 44 | 22 | 62 | 69 | 52 | 55 | 45 | 59 | 58 | 60 |
| 2019 | 44 | 23 | 62 | 69 | 56 | 48 | 45 | 59 | 58 | 62 |
| 2018 | 44 | 23 | 58 | 68 | 57 | 44 | 43 | 58 | 58 | 63 |
Compare two years
Best fit & conditions
Higher scores mean a better fit for that use case. Learn more about use-case fit →
Subject profile
Trims & configurations
5 trimsScores above reflect the volume trim. Per-trim specs and scores are rolling out — the full lineup:
Academic Probation · NHTSA safety recalls
Sep 11, 2026SteeringOne of the bolts that attaches the steering rack to the subframe may corrode and break. If this happens, the steering rack housing can break.
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Tiguan, 2018-2019 Atlas, and 2019-2021 Audi Q3 vehicles. One of the bolts that attaches the steering rack to the subframe may corrode and break. If this happens, the steering rack housing can break.
Risk
A broken steering rack housing can result in a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the right-side steering rack mounting bolt, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 10, 2026. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are 48LG and 48VT. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on September 16, 2026.
NHTSA campaign 26V590000 ↗Manufacturer no. 48LG, 48VT208,724 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASMar 29, 2023Air bags: sensor: occupant classification: front passengerThe passenger occupant detection system (PODS) may experience a fault in the wiring and deactivate the front passenger air bag when the seat is occupied.
Defect
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.
NHTSA campaign 23V215000 ↗Manufacturer no. 69FB143,053 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Mar 22, 2024Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASFeb 16, 2022Equipment: other: labelsThe 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."
Defect
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.
NHTSA campaign 22V086000 ↗Manufacturer no. 09D93,648 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Mar 31, 2022Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASMay 5, 2021Unknown or otherThese internal-use vehicles were sold without confirmation that they were built to all applicable regulatory requirements and may have been modified prior to sale. As such, these vehicles may fail to comply with the requirements of various Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2017 Touareg GP, Tiguan, Golf A6, E-Golf GP, CCF, 2016-2017 Passat GP, 2018-2019 Golf R GP, and 2018 Atlas vehicles. These internal-use vehicles were sold without confirmation that they were built to all applicable regulatory requirements and may have been modified prior to sale. As such, these vehicles may fail to comply with the requirements of various Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
Risk
Vehicles that do not meet all regulatory requirements may have an increased risk of injury, crash, or fire.
Remedy
Volkswagen will repurchase the vehicles. Owner notification letters were mailed May 20, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 01F1.
NHTSA campaign 21V321000 ↗Manufacturer no. 01F146 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified May 20, 2021Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASMar 5, 2021Tires: sidewallOn the affected vehicles, it is possible that one or more tires were cured for too long during tire production.
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Atlas vehicles equipped with Continental tires. On the affected vehicles, it is possible that one or more tires were cured for too long during tire production.
Risk
Over cured tires may develop a break in the sidewall, resulting in sudden air loss or belt edge separation which could lead to tread/belt loss. Either condition can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the tires, and replace them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on March 24, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 44R1.
NHTSA campaign 21V142000 ↗Manufacturer no. 44R12,535 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Mar 24, 2021Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASSep 16, 2020Unknown or otherThese internal use vehicles were sold without confirmation that they were built to all applicable regulatory requirements and may have been modified prior to sale. As such, these vehicles may fail to comply with the requirements of various Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Volkswagen Golf R and Atlas, 2017 Golf Alltrack and E-Golf and 2016-2018 Passat vehicles. These internal use vehicles were sold without confirmation that they were built to all applicable regulatory requirements and may have been modified prior to sale. As such, these vehicles may fail to comply with the requirements of various Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
Risk
Vehicles that do not meet all regulatory requirements may have an increased risk of a crash or injury to vehicle occupants.
Remedy
Volkswagen will notify owners and will repurchase the vehicles. The recall began October 6, 2020. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 01E9.
NHTSA campaign 20V561000 ↗Manufacturer no. 01E923 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Oct 6, 2020Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASJan 31, 2020Air bagsThe vehicles may be equipped with an incorrectly manufactured air bag sensor, which can delay or disable air bag deployment when necessary.
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Atlas vehicles. The vehicles may be equipped with an incorrectly manufactured air bag sensor, which can delay or disable air bag deployment when necessary.
Risk
In the event of a crash necessitating frontal air bag deployment, a delayed or disabled airbag deployment can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy
Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the air bag crash sensor, free of charge. The recall began February 21, 2020. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69AL.
NHTSA campaign 20V057000 ↗Manufacturer no. 69AL7 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Feb 21, 2020Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASMay 22, 2019Exterior lighting: headlightsThe blocking cap disabling the adjustment of the headlight's horizontal aim may not have been installed. As such, these vehicles fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2012-2020 Volkswagen Passat and 2018-2019 Atlas vehicles. The blocking cap disabling the adjustment of the headlight's horizontal aim may not have been installed. As such, these vehicles fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Risk
Without the blocking cap, the headlight aim can be adjusted out of specification, reducing visibility and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, block the headlight horizontal adjustment, free of charge. The recall began July 16, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 94L9.
NHTSA campaign 19V389000 ↗Manufacturer no. 94L9662,185 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jul 16, 2019Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASDec 19, 2018Suspension: rear: springs: coil springsThe rear coil springs may prematurely fracture.
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Volkswagen Atlas, 2015 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen, and 2019 Volkswagen Jetta vehicles. The rear coil springs may prematurely fracture.
Risk
If a coil spring fractures while driving, it may damage a rear tire causing a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Volkswagen has notified owners, and dealers will replace the rear axle coil springs, free of charge. The recall began January 31, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 42J2/42J3.
NHTSA campaign 18V904000 ↗Manufacturer no. 42J2/42J36,322 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jan 31, 2019Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASNov 26, 2018Electrical system: instrument cluster/panelThe instrument cluster may not provide an audible warning to let the driver know that the key is still in the ignition when the door is open. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection."
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Volkswagen Atlas and Tiguan and 2019 Volkswagen Jetta vehicles that do not have keyless entry. The instrument cluster may not provide an audible warning to let the driver know that the key is still in the ignition when the door is open. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection."
Risk
If the driver is not notified by an audible noise that the key is left in the ignition, it can increase the risk of vehicle theft or crash.
Remedy
Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the instrument cluster, free of charge. The recall began December 13, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are 90L3 and 90L4.
NHTSA campaign 18V824000 ↗Manufacturer no. 90L3 / 90L473,549 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Dec 13, 2018Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASAug 20, 2018Air bags: air bag/restraint control moduleDuring production, the air conditioning system drain tube may have been twisted, causing water to drain into the air bag control module.
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Volkswagen Atlas vehicles. During production, the air conditioning system drain tube may have been twisted, causing water to drain into the air bag control module.
Risk
The wet air bag control module may result in an unintentional deployment of the air bags, increasing the risk of injury or crash.
Remedy
Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the air conditioning drain tube, and if it is twisted, the drain tube and air bag control module will be replaced, free of charge. Some of the affected vehicles have had their drain tube previously replaced but did not receive a new air bag control module; the airbag control module will be replaced in these vehicles. The recall began September 14, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 87F9.
NHTSA campaign 18V537000 ↗Manufacturer no. 87F99,685 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Sep 14, 2018Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASAug 15, 2018Service brakes, hydraulic: foundation components: disc: caliperThe brake caliper bracket mounting bolts on these vehicles may not have been tightened sufficiently.
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Volkswagen Atlas and 2017-2018 Volkswagen Passat vehicles. The brake caliper bracket mounting bolts on these vehicles may not have been tightened sufficiently.
Risk
The loose brake bracket bolts can allow the caliper to move, reducing braking ability or causing a loss of vehicle control and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the brake caliper bracket bolt tightness, replacing and re-torque the bolts as necessary, free of charge. Additionally brake caliper fasteners, bleeder valve, and brake hose bolts will be checked and torqued to the correct specification, if necessary, free of charge. For Passat vehicles, dealers will also inspect the parking brake cable for proper connection, free of charge. The recall began September 14, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 46H6.
NHTSA campaign 18V536000 ↗Manufacturer no. 46H68,416 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Sep 13, 2018Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASJun 7, 2018Seat belts: rear/other: buckle assemblyThe owner's manuals provided with the affected vehicles do not inform the customers about the child restraint size limitation/restrictions for the second row center seating position. As a result, the center and adjacent outboard seat belt buckles on the second row can become damaged it a child seat base is installed that is wider than 12.6 inches.
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswaen) is recalling certain 2018 Volkswagen Atlas vehicles. The owner's manuals provided with the affected vehicles do not inform the customers about the child restraint size limitation/restrictions for the second row center seating position. As a result, the center and adjacent outboard seat belt buckles on the second row can become damaged it a child seat base is installed that is wider than 12.6 inches.
Risk
A damaged seat belt buckle can release unexpectedly, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
Remedy
Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the center and left outboard seat belt buckles, and replace them if necessary, free of charge. Volkswagen will also provide an owner's manual supplement addressing child safety and child restraints. The recall began June 29, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69X1.
NHTSA campaign 18V380000 ↗Manufacturer no. 69X154,729 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jun 29, 2018Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASJun 6, 2018Air bags: frontal: passenger side: inflator moduleIn the event of a crash, the passenger frontal air bag may tear or not properly unfold during deployment.
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Volkswagen Atlas and Tiguan vehicles. In the event of a crash, the passenger frontal air bag may tear or not properly unfold during deployment.
Risk
If the air bag were to tear or unfold incorrectly during deployment, it can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy
Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag, free of charge. The recall began July 19, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are 69W8, and 69W9.
NHTSA campaign 18V375000 ↗Manufacturer no. 69W8 69W9821 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jul 19, 2018Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASJun 1, 2018Service brakes, hydraulic: foundation components: disc: caliperThe brake caliper pistons on these vehicles may have insufficient coating, potentially reducing the brake performance.
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Volkswagen Atlas, Passat, Beetle, Beetle Convertible, Golf, Golf SportWagen and GTI and Audi Q5 and SQ5 vehicles. The brake caliper pistons on these vehicles may have insufficient coating, potentially reducing the brake performance.
Risk
A reduction of braking performance can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Volkswagen and Audi will notify their owners. Audi dealers will bleed the rear brakes. Volkswagen dealers will bleed the front and rear brake calipers. Note: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the brake system has been checked. The recall began June 29, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 and Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are 47N8, 47N9, and 47N6.
NHTSA campaign 18V369000 ↗Manufacturer no. 47N8, 47N9, 47N610,225 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jun 29, 2018Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASMay 2, 2018Fuel system, gasoline: storage: tank assemblyThe fuel tank on these vehicles may leak fuel due to a manufacturing error. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 301, "Fuel System Integrity."
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain Volkswagen Atlas vehicles. The fuel tank on these vehicles may leak fuel due to a manufacturing error. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 301, "Fuel System Integrity."
Risk
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel tank, free of charge. The recall began June 22, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 20AW. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 17V-766.
NHTSA campaign 18V284000 ↗Manufacturer no. 20AW278 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jun 22, 2018Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASNov 29, 2017Fuel system, gasoline: storageThe fuel tank may have been manufactured with insufficient wall thickness, potentially resulting in the tank leaking fuel. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 301, "Fuel System Integrity."
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Atlas vehicles. The fuel tank may have been manufactured with insufficient wall thickness, potentially resulting in the tank leaking fuel. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 301, "Fuel System Integrity."
Risk
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel tank, free of charge. The recall began December 10, 2017. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 20AQ.
NHTSA campaign 17V766000 ↗Manufacturer no. 20AQ58 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jan 10, 2018Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLAS
31 recalls on other model years of the Atlas (2019–2026)
Jul 22, 2026Back over prevention: softwareVolkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling 2024-2026 Atlas Cross Sport and Atlas vehicles. The vehicles may experience a low-voltage electrical event that affects display screen functions. As a result, the rearview camera image may fail to display as intended.
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling 2024-2026 Atlas Cross Sport and Atlas vehicles. The vehicles may experience a low-voltage electrical event that affects display screen functions. As a result, the rearview camera image may fail to display as intended.
Risk
A rearview camera that fails to display an image can reduce the driverâs view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 4, 2026. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 91TV. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 28, 2026.
NHTSA campaign 26V473000 ↗Manufacturer no. 91TV57,851 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Aug 4, 2026Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASDec 3, 2025Wheels: lugs/nuts/bolts/studsThe incorrect wheel bolts may have been installed during vehicle manufacturing.
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2026 Atlas, Atlas Cross Sport, and ID.4 vehicles. The incorrect wheel bolts may have been installed during vehicle manufacturing.
Risk
Incorrect wheel bolts can allow a wheel to detach from the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until they have been repaired. Dealers will inspect and replace the wheel bolts as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 12, 2025. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 44BW. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on December 5, 2025.
NHTSA campaign 25V835000 ↗Manufacturer no. 44BW27 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Dec 12, 2025Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASJun 30, 2025Service brakes · SuspensionCertain bolts on the chassis, brake system and/or suspension (such as bolts for certain cross member, engine mount, control arm, subframe, rear brake carrier, etc.) of affected vehicles may not have been correctly tightened during the manufacturing process.
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Atlas, Atlas Cross Sport and 2023-2024 ID.4 vehicles. Certain bolts on the chassis, brake system and/or suspension (such as bolts for certain cross member, engine mount, control arm, subframe, rear brake carrier, etc.) of affected vehicles may not have been correctly tightened during the manufacturing process.
Risk
A loss of vehicle control increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the bolts as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 25, 2025. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 42HX.
NHTSA campaign 25V434000 ↗Manufacturer no. 42HX546 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jul 25, 2025Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASMay 21, 2025Back over prevention: sensing system: cameraA software error may cause the rearview camera image to become distorted when the vehicle is in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Atlas Cross Sport and Atlas vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera image to become distorted when the vehicle is in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Risk
A distorted rearview camera image can reduce the driver's view of what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the camera control unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 5, 2025. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 91SB.
NHTSA campaign 25V334000 ↗Manufacturer no. 91QE171,381 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jun 5, 2025Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASFeb 17, 2025EngineThe engine cover may have been improperly installed after vehicle service, allowing it to come loose and contact hot engine surfaces.
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The engine cover may have been improperly installed after vehicle service, allowing it to come loose and contact hot engine surfaces.
Risk
A loose engine cover that contacts hot surfaces in the engine compartment can melt, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will remove the engine cover, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 7, 2025. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 10X5.
NHTSA campaign 25V100000 ↗Manufacturer no. 10X5177,493 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Mar 7, 2025Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASFeb 12, 2025Power train: automatic transmissionThe transmission may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in a loss of drive power.
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2025 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The transmission may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in a loss of drive power.
Risk
A sudden loss of drive power can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the transmission, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 12, 2025. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 38CX.
NHTSA campaign 25V081000 ↗Manufacturer no. 38CX19 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Mar 12, 2025Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASSep 27, 2024Service brakes, hydraulic: foundation components: master cylinderThe brake master cylinder may have been assembled with an incorrect secondary piston spring retainer, which can block the brake fluid port.
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2024 Atlas and 2024 Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The brake master cylinder may have been assembled with an incorrect secondary piston spring retainer, which can block the brake fluid port.
Risk
An obstructed brake fluid port can cause a loss of brake function, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the brake master cylinder, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 21, 2024. Additionally, vehicles that were added to the population on November 21, 2024, their letters were mailed on December 2, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen Customer Relations at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 471F.
NHTSA campaign 24V723000 ↗Manufacturer no. 471F1,591 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Oct 21, 2024Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASJun 27, 2024Back over prevention: softwareThe rearview camera image may be delayed or deactivated after shifting into reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (VW) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Golf R, Golf GTI, 2024 Atlas, and 2024 Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The rearview camera image may be delayed or deactivated after shifting into reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Risk
A rearview camera with a delayed or deactivated image reduces the driver's view of what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury or crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the infotainment system software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 15, 2024, and July 16, 2024. Owners may contact VW customer service at 1-800-893-5298. VW's number for this recall is 91US.
NHTSA campaign 24V480000 ↗Manufacturer no. 91US84,432 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jul 15, 2024Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASJun 20, 2024Air bags: sensor: occupant classification: front passengerThe passenger occupant detection system (PODS) may experience a fault in the wiring and deactivate the front passenger air bag when the seat is occupied.
Defect
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.
NHTSA campaign 24V464000 ↗Manufacturer no. 69PZ271,330 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Sep 30, 2024Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASOct 4, 2023Air bags: side/window: curtainThe driver's side impact air bag may be missing a weld at the side air bag housing.
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Atlas vehicles. The driver's side impact air bag may be missing a weld at the side air bag housing.
Risk
The driver's side impact air bag could deploy improperly or detach in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the driver's side impact air bag, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 19, 2023. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69FK.
NHTSA campaign 23V671000 ↗Manufacturer no. 69FK2 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Oct 19, 2023Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASAug 23, 2023Engine and engine cooling: engine: hard parts internal/mechanicalThe engine connecting rod bearings may become damaged, which can result in engine failure.
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2024 Atlas PA2 and Atlas Cross Sport PA 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. In addition, engine failure may cause an oil leak which can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the engine, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 28, 2023. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 13i6.
NHTSA campaign 23V593000 ↗Manufacturer no. 13i62,018 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Sep 28, 2023Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASOct 31, 2022Tires: pressure monitoring and regulating systemsThe 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."
Defect
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 AudiÂs customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are (Audi) 45J7, and (VW) 45J6 and 45J8.
NHTSA campaign 22V815000 ↗Manufacturer no. AU:45J7,VW:45J6,45J8296,044 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Nov 18, 2022Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASOct 26, 2022Suspension: critical fastenersThe driver-side rear trailing arm bolts may not have been tightened properly, allowing them to loosen and fall out.
Defect
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.
NHTSA campaign 22V807000 ↗Manufacturer no. 42M233 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Nov 22, 2022Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASOct 7, 2022Engine and engine cooling: engine: hard parts internal/mechanicalThe engine connecting rod bearings may become damaged, which can result in engine failure.
Defect
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).
NHTSA campaign 22V753000 ↗Manufacturer no. VW: 13i4, Audi: 13i576,515 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Nov 8, 2022Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASSep 26, 2022Service brakes, hydraulic: foundation components: hoses, lines/piping, and fittingsCertain brake lines may leak at the threaded connections.
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2023 model year Atlas FL and Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. Certain brake lines may leak at the threaded connections.
Risk
A brake fluid leak may increase the distance required to stop, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the affected brake lines, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on November 23, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 47T2.
NHTSA campaign 22V718000 ↗Manufacturer no. 47T2555 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Nov 22, 2022Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASAug 31, 2022Trailer hitchesThe trailer hitch bolts may have been insufficiently tightened.
Defect
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.
NHTSA campaign 22V657000 ↗Manufacturer no. 66N83,184 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Sep 16, 2022Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASJul 20, 2022Back over prevention: sensing system: camera · Equipment: electrical: infotainment: softwareThe 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."
Defect
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.
NHTSA campaign 22V514000 ↗Manufacturer no. 91DV43,091 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Aug 2, 2022Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASApr 13, 2022Fuel system, gasoline: fuel injection system: injectorsThe long fuel injectors may have been assembled without filters.
Defect
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.
NHTSA campaign 22V245000 ↗Manufacturer no. 24iD1,382 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jul 20, 2022Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASMar 28, 2022Air bags: side/windowThe 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.
Defect
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.
NHTSA campaign 22V152000 ↗Manufacturer no. 97GF222,892 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jun 22, 2022Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASNov 17, 2021Air bags: air bag/restraint control module · Visibility: defroster/defogger/hvac systemThe air conditioning system drain tube could be blocked, causing water to leak inside the vehicle near the air bag control module.
Defect
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.
NHTSA campaign 21V892000 ↗Manufacturer no. 87H454,429 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Jan 14, 2022Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASOct 15, 2021Suspension: front: wheel bearing · Wheels: lugs/nuts/bolts/studsThe front wheel bearing bolts may have been incorrectly tightened.
Defect
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.
NHTSA campaign 21V812000 ↗Manufacturer no. 40R730 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Nov 2, 2021Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASAug 6, 2021Electrical system: wiring: fuses and circuit breakers · Electrical system: wiring: relays/solenoidsDamaged relays may have been installed in the engine compartment fuse box, which could inadvertently activate the horn or engine starter.
Defect
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.
NHTSA campaign 21V616000 ↗Manufacturer no. 97FR33 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Aug 27, 2021Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASMar 3, 2021Wheels: lugs/nuts/bolts/studs · Wheels: rimThe lug bolt holes on the wheels may have been machined incorrectly, preventing the wheel bolt from sufficiently attaching to the wheel bearing hub.
Defect
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.
NHTSA campaign 21V132000 ↗Manufacturer no. 44Q9128 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Mar 12, 2021Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASJan 27, 2021SteeringThe front steering knuckle may fracture in the area of the strut mounting.
Defect
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.
NHTSA campaign 21V026000 ↗Manufacturer no. 40Q710,303 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Feb 16, 2021Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASNov 18, 2020Back over prevention: sensing system: cameraThe 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."
Defect
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.
NHTSA campaign 20V716000 ↗Manufacturer no. 91BB / 91BC32,048 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Dec 11, 2020Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASNov 17, 2020SteeringOne or both steering knuckles may have been damaged during production.
Defect
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.
NHTSA campaign 20V712000 ↗Manufacturer no. 40Q6776 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Nov 19, 2020Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASNov 13, 2020Tires: sidewallThe tires may have been over cured.
Defect
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.
NHTSA campaign 20V702000 ↗Manufacturer no. 44Q5760 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Nov 30, 2020Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASAug 26, 2020SeatsParts of the front seat frame and backrest adjuster may not have been welded properly.
Defect
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.
NHTSA campaign 20V505000 ↗Manufacturer no. 72L1, 72K8, 72K95,376 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Sep 11, 2020Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASAug 26, 2020Exterior lighting: headlightsThe 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."
Defect
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.
NHTSA campaign 20V504000 ↗Manufacturer no. 94N711 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Sep 9, 2020Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASAug 21, 2019Fuel system, gasoline: storage: tank assemblyThe suction jet in the fuel tank may have been welded in the incorrect position allowing fuel to leak. Additionally, the vehicle may stall due to uneven fuel distribution.
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Atlas vehicles. The suction jet in the fuel tank may have been welded in the incorrect position allowing fuel to leak. Additionally, the vehicle may stall due to uneven fuel distribution.
Risk
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire. An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel tank, free of charge. The recall began August 30, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 20BU.
NHTSA campaign 19V614000 ↗Manufacturer no. 20BU6 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Aug 30, 2019Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLASMar 20, 2019Air bags: side/windowAn incorrect driver and/or front passenger side impact air bag may have been installed.
Defect
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Atlas and 2020 Passat vehicles. An incorrect driver and/or front passenger side impact air bag may have been installed.
Risk
In an event of a side impact crash, an incorrect side airbag may not deploy as intended, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Volkswagen has inspected and replaced the side air bags, free of charge. The recall was completed in April 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69Y8.
NHTSA campaign 19V218000 ↗Manufacturer no. 69Y83 vehicles potentially affected (all models in the campaign)Owners notified Apr 24, 2019Filed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.Filed as ATLAS
Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation recall database, model years 2018–2026. Recalls are listed by model year as the manufacturer filed them; whether a specific car is affected depends on its VIN — check a VIN at nhtsa.gov ↗. NHTSA model names matched to this page: ATLAS.
Detailed scoring by subject
1Performance & PowertrainOne of the Atlas's weakest categories.0.90F
2018 is the Atlas's launch model year, the first year of the first generation. The VR6 is the volume engine and the only one offered with 4Motion; the 2.0T arrived later in the model year on FWD S/SE trims only. 276 hp trails the 280-295 hp V6s of mid-size three-row rivals.
The VR6 makes a modest 266 lb-ft, and it peaks high in the rev range. The 2.0T makes nearly as much torque, and makes it much lower down.
A three-row SUV of roughly 4,500 lb with a 276 hp VR6 is slow for the class. V6 rivals run 0-60 in the high 6s to low 7s.
The VR6 is smooth but feels short of breath at low revs and works hard to move the heavy body at highway speed. The 2.0T feels peppier around town but sounds strained under load.
The 8-speed automatic shifts smoothly in normal driving but is slow to kick down. That delay blunts passing response.
The VR6 is rated to tow 5,000 lbs with the factory hitch, which matches mid-size three-row rivals. The 2.0T is rated for only 2,000 lbs.
4Motion AWD is available from the S trim up, but only with the VR6; the 2.0T is front-drive only. The system has Snow and Off-Road modes but no low range and no torque vectoring.
The Atlas has about 8 inches of ground clearance and an Off-Road drive mode, but no off-road trim, skid plates or lockers. It is built for pavement.
There are two gas engines, but AWD is tied to the VR6, so there are only three configurations. No hybrid or electrified option is offered.
2Efficiency & RangeThe Atlas's lowest-graded category.0.00F
The volume VR6 4Motion is rated at only 19 MPG combined, near the bottom of the three-row mid-size class. The FWD 2.0T, which arrived later in the model year, reaches 24 MPG.
17 MPG in the city is poor. The heavy body and the naturally aspirated VR6 burn a lot of fuel in stop-and-go traffic.
23 MPG on the highway trails rivals that reach 26-27 MPG.
The 18.6-gallon tank only partly offsets the VR6's thirst, so range is below the segment average.
This is EPA's current annual fuel-cost estimate at 15,000 miles a year on regular gas, near the expensive end of the SUV band.
Both engines run on regular unleaded; premium is not required.
3SafetyMid-pack among this car's ten categories.1.87C-
NHTSA rated both drivetrains of the launch-year 2018 Atlas 5 stars overall, frontal and side. Rollover is the only 4-star sub-rating.
The 2018 Atlas rates Good in every IIHS crashworthiness test, including both small-overlap tests. It earned a Top Safety Pick (not TSP+), but only when fitted with the optional front crash prevention. Its headlights rate just Marginal/Poor, which kept it off the Plus tier.
In the launch year, the base Launch Edition/S has no AEB or blind-spot monitoring. The SE adds Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert, but Front Assist AEB starts at the SE w/ Technology. ACC and Lane Assist are confined to the upper trims as well, and nothing became standard on every trim until 2020.
Front Assist earns a Superior vehicle-to-vehicle rating, avoiding a collision at 12 mph and cutting impact speed by 17 mph at 25 mph. However, it is optional below the SE w/ Technology, and IIHS has no pedestrian or night rating for it.
Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Traffic Alert come from the SE upward, which covers the volume trims, but the base Launch Edition/S lacks them. Coverage is alert-only, with no steering intervention, trailer coverage or safe-exit alert.
Lane Assist (lane departure warning plus corrective nudges at the lane edge) is offered only on the upper trims. There is no lane centering, since Travel Assist arrived only with the 2021 refresh.
ACC with stop-and-go is available from the SE w/ Technology upward and works adequately. There is no combined highway assist, and the lower trims make do with conventional cruise.
No 2018 Atlas trim offers hands-free driving, or even hands-on lane centering.
The LED reflector headlights on the Launch Edition, SE and SEL rate Poor, and the SEL Premium with high-beam assist rates only Marginal. No version rates Acceptable or Good.
The boxy body, tall glass area and upright pillars give the Atlas some of the best natural sightlines among three-row mid-size SUVs. The Area View overhead camera is limited to the top trim.
A roomy second row, large rear doors, full LATCH hardware in three rear positions and a second-row seat that tilts forward with a child seat installed are family strengths. However, IIHS rates LATCH ease of use only Marginal because the outboard lower anchors sit too deep in the seat.
4Space & ComfortThe Atlas's best-graded category.2.63C+
2018 is the Atlas's launch year, the first year of the first generation. Every trim is a three-row seven-seater with a 60/40 second-row bench; optional captain's chairs on the SE and above cut capacity to six.
The tall, upright cabin gives generous front headroom for the class.
Front legroom is ordinary for a mid-size three-row SUV. The Atlas's space advantage lies in rows two and three.
Second-row headroom is at the top of the segment.
Second-row legroom is good, and the bench slides fore and aft so passengers can trade space with the third row.
This is one of the few mid-size three-row SUVs whose third row genuinely seats adults. The Easy Access tilt-and-slide second row gives a wide path back, even with a child seat installed.
The cargo hold is large for the segment. Even the 20.6 cu ft behind the third row is usable luggage space.
Maximum cargo volume is near the top of the mid-size class.
Everyday storage is competitive, with a center console bin, cupholders in all three rows and fold-flat second and third rows. A 115V outlet arrives only on the SEL, and there are no standout storage innovations.
The front seats are supportive and the second row slides and reclines. The volume SE w/Tech has a 10-way power driver seat but only a 4-way manual passenger seat; memory and a power passenger seat need the SEL.
The ride is compliant and well damped on the 18-in wheels of the volume trims. The 20-in wheels standard on the SEL Premium and optional elsewhere add firmness over broken pavement.
Noise levels are average for the class. The boxy body lets in some wind and tire noise at highway speed, and the VR6 gets loud when worked hard.
Heated front seats and rear sunshades come from the SE, and 3-zone automatic climate and remote start from the SE w/Tech. No 2018 trim offers a heated steering wheel, and ventilated front plus heated second-row seats are SEL Premium only.
5Cost of OwnershipMid-pack among this car's ten categories.1.83C-
In its launch year, the Atlas undercut most mainstream three-row rivals. The base S with the 2.0T and FWD started near $31k with destination.
SE w/Technology is the volume trim. 4Motion AWD came only with the VR6 in 2018, so the typical AWD buyer paid for the V6.
VW parts and labor cost more than Japanese and Korean rivals. Edmunds' projections for the first-generation Atlas are near the top of the class, though the 6-year/72k warranty absorbs some early repair costs.
The first-generation Atlas loses value faster than the mid-size SUV average and well behind its Toyota, Honda and Kia rivals.
MY2018 had VW's 'America's Best' 6-year/72,000-mile limited warranty, fully transferable. That beats the 5/60 from Hyundai and Kia and far exceeds the class-typical 3/36.
The powertrain is covered under the same 6-year/72,000-mile limited warranty. That is longer than the 5/60 from Toyota, Honda and GM but short of the 10/100 from Hyundai and Kia.
MY2018 VWs included Carefree Maintenance for the first scheduled service (1 yr/10,000 mi), plus roadside assistance for the warranty term and a Car-Net trial. Prepaid VW Care plans for later services cost extra.
$39,815 volume-trim price minus its estimated resale value after 5 years (48% retained, or about $19,111) leaves about $20,704 in depreciation. Add the projected $7,600 in 5-year maintenance and repairs, and owning this vehicle for 5 years costs about $28,304 in total.
6Reliability & QualityGrades near the bottom of the scale.0.92F
2018 is the launch model year of the first-generation, Chattanooga-built Atlas (Wikipedia). Consumer Reports rated the 2018 Atlas well below average for reliability, citing electrical, in-car electronics and power-equipment faults. J.D. Power put the model's quality and reliability no better than average, well behind the Highlander and Pilot.
Volkswagen sat in the lower third of Consumer Reports' brand reliability rankings and below the industry average in J.D. Power's Vehicle Dependability Study during the years around 2018. Electronics and infotainment were the most-cited problem areas.
As the launch year, the 2018 Atlas carries 17 NHTSA campaigns, the most of any Atlas model year. They include safety-critical defects in fuel-tank leaks, brake-caliper bolts, the passenger air-bag inflator, the air-bag control module (water intrusion), occupant detection and a steering bolt. Many are 2018-only assembly or supplier errors from the Chattanooga ramp-up.
The 2018 Atlas offered a 235-hp 2.0L EA888 turbo-four (FWD only) and a 276-hp 3.6L VR6 (the volume engine, required for 4Motion), both with an 8-speed automatic. Both are long-running VW Group families with no engine or transmission recall for this year. Owners do report recurring water-pump/thermostat-housing leaks, and some early transmissions were rough-shifting.
The launch cabin is roomy and logically laid out but relies heavily on hard plastics on the doors and lower dash. Reviewers called it plain for the price: adequate for a mainstream three-row SUV, but behind the Highlander and Pilot on perceived quality.
Launch-year Chattanooga production generated multiple assembly-defect recalls and electrical gremlins. These include fuel tanks with thin walls, misrouted A/C drain tubes, wrong caliper bolts and mismatched owner's manuals, which point to inconsistent early build quality.
Volkswagen's US network of roughly 600-650 dealers is about half the size of Toyota's, leaving gaps in rural markets. Metro coverage is adequate, and owners rate the dealership service experience as middling.
VW parts and labor cost more than mainstream Japanese and domestic rivals. Shared MQB/EA888/VR6 parts and a large aftermarket keep availability good. The 2018 Atlas launched with VW's 6yr/72,000-mile transferable bumper-to-bumper warranty, which offsets early repair exposure.
7Technology & InfotainmentOne of the Atlas's weakest categories.0.83F
The volume SE w/Tech has the glass-covered 8.0-in Composition Media touchscreen. That is a mid-size screen for 2018 and small by today's standards.
MIB II is simple and responsive, with a capacitive screen and physical volume and tuning knobs. The graphics are plain and the screen is modest.
App-Connect with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard on every 2018 trim, but it is wired only. Wireless App-Connect did not arrive until the MIB3 system in the 2021.5 refresh.
Native navigation (Discover Media) is offered only on the top SEL Premium, and voice control is basic command-style. Volume-trim owners rely on phone projection.
The 8-speaker system on the SE through SEL is adequate. The 12-speaker Fender system with subwoofer is limited to the top SEL Premium.
The configurable Volkswagen Digital Cockpit is crisp but is standard only on the SEL Premium in 2018. Every other trim, including the volume SE w/Tech, has analog gauges with a color multifunction display.
The 2018 MIB II system has no over-the-air update capability. Software and map updates need a dealer visit or SD card.
Car-Net Security & Service (SE and up) gives remote lock and unlock, vehicle status and parking location by app on a limited trial, then by subscription. There is no digital key, and the base S has no telematics.
There are dual USB ports in the console, two charge-only USB ports for the second row from the SE, and three 12V outlets. A 115V outlet is SEL and up, and no trim offers wireless charging.
KESSY keyless entry with push-button start comes from the SE, and the volume SE w/Tech adds remote start and a power liftgate. The hands-free Easy Open liftgate is SEL and up, and there is no phone-as-key.
A rearview camera is standard, with dynamic guidelines from the SE. Park Distance Control needs the SEL, and the Area View overhead camera and Park Assist are SEL Premium only.
No head-up display is offered on any 2018 Atlas trim.
8Use-Case FitOne of the Atlas's strongest categories.1.88C-
Large rear doors, a roomy second row and the Easy Access second row, which tilts forward with a child seat installed, make daily family logistics easy. IIHS rates LATCH ease of use only Marginal.
The crash structure is excellent (NHTSA 5 stars, IIHS Good in every crash test), but in 2018 automatic emergency braking was not standard. It needs the SE w/Tech, blind-spot monitoring needs the SE, and the headlights rate Poor on most trims.
It carries adults in all three rows, has vents for every row, and keeps 20.6 cu ft of luggage space with every seat in use. Heated rear seats and a 115V outlet are upper-trim only, and no rear entertainment is offered.
It is easy to see out of and smooth in traffic. However, its size, the 8-speed's slow kick-down and the heavy VR6 make it feel ponderous around town.
The volume VR6 4Motion is one of the thirstiest mid-size three-row SUVs, so commuting costs are above average for its class.
It is a large vehicle at about 198 in long, offset by a reasonable turning circle and good sightlines. Parking sensors need the SEL, and the overhead camera and Park Assist are SEL Premium only.
With the factory hitch the VR6 tows 5,000 lbs, and the 96.8 cu ft cargo hold is big. The 2.0T is limited to 2,000 lbs, and the VR6 has to work hard under load.
It is a family crossover with no fleet or work-duty reputation. The launch-year 2018 Atlas had well-below-average reliability ratings and many first-year recalls.
There are roof rails, a 12V cargo-area outlet and an available factory hitch, and the SEL adds a 115V outlet for the second row. There are no work-oriented upfit options.
It is a comfortable, roomy highway cruiser. However, the VR6's thirst limits range, adaptive cruise needs the SE w/Tech, and there is no lane centering.
4Motion with Snow and Off-Road modes, about 8 in of ground clearance, roof rails and a 5,000-lb tow rating handle gravel roads and campsites. AWD requires the VR6, and there is no low range or skid plating.
A 96.8 cu ft maximum, fold-flat 60/40 second and 50/50 third rows, roof rails and an available hitch make it one of the better gear haulers in the class.
9Driving ExperienceMid-pack among this car's ten categories.1.87C-
Handling is secure and predictable, with well-controlled body motions for a roughly 4,500-lb three-row SUV, but nothing about it is agile.
The steering is accurate and reasonably weighted, but numb, as is typical of the class.
The brakes are adequate, with a progressive pedal and average stopping power for a heavy three-row SUV. No instrumented 2018 stopping distance was retrieved this run, and early builds were recalled for brake-caliper bracket bolts.
The VR6 is smooth but short on low-end torque, and the 8-speed is slow to kick down, so it feels sluggish when passing or merging. Start-stop is standard and is not always seamless.
The VR6 is smooth and inoffensive at a cruise, but it gets loud and strained when worked hard.
The turning circle is reasonable for a three-row SUV of the Atlas's size and is mid-pack for the segment. The first-generation chassis and steering were unchanged from 2018 until the 2021 refresh.
The upright seating, large glass area and physical climate and audio knobs make the driving position easy to get comfortable in. The volume SE w/Tech lacks seat memory and a power passenger seat.
It is a capable but appliance-like family hauler, and its slow acceleration and heft give little reason to take the long way home.
10Value & Market PositionOne of the Atlas's strongest categories.2.28C
The base S comes with App-Connect, a rearview camera and LED headlights. Forward-collision warning with AEB and blind-spot monitoring need the SE, and adaptive cruise, a power liftgate and remote start need the SE w/Technology. The base spec is competitive but not generous.
When it launched, the Atlas offered one of the roomiest third rows and cargo holds in the class for the money, and the 6-year/72k transferable warranty added real value. Against that, AWD requires the thirsty 276 hp VR6, the interior is plain and resale is below average.
There are five trims (S, SE, SE w/Technology, SEL, SEL Premium), two engines, FWD or 4Motion, and bench or captain's chairs. That makes about 13 configurations, evenly spaced from about $31k to $49k, but AWD is unavailable with the 2.0T.
In its first full year, the Atlas quickly became one of VW's top US sellers at roughly 60,000 units in 2018. That is a strong launch for the brand but mid-pack for the segment, far behind the Explorer, Highlander and Pilot.
In 2018, Volkswagen's US image was still recovering from the 2015 diesel scandal. Some European cachet is offset by doubts about reliability and dealer service, all of which hold down Atlas resale.
As an all-new launch model in 2018, the Atlas saw only modest incentives at first. Lease deals and dealer discounts grew through late 2018 as VW pushed volume.
MY2018 is the Atlas's debut year, an all-new nameplate on VW's then-current MQB platform with Chattanooga production, and no redesign was due for years.
Reviewers praised the 2018 Atlas's adult-usable third row, huge cargo hold and composed ride. They faulted its sluggish engines, plain interior and fuel economy. It earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick and was well reviewed, but it was rarely the pick in comparison tests against the Pilot and Highlander.