2021 Volkswagen Atlas

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.

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.

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 Audi’s customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are (Audi) 45J7, and (VW) 45J6 and 45J8.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

On September 28, 2023, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE23017) to assess reports of inadvertent activation of the Front Assist automatic emergency braking (AEB) system in model year (MY) 2018-2019 Volkswagen Atlas vehicles.The reports alleged that activation of the AEB system occurred while driving with no apparent obstruction in the vehicle's forward path, resulting in sudden vehicle deceleration. Volkswagen indicated that it is aware of a total of 292 reports that may relate to the alleged defect in MY 2018-2019 Volkswagen Atlas …

Supporting FAQ for VWP-26-07 Main Engine Wiring Harness Limited Warranty Extension (Class Action)

For applicable 2018-2022 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport 3.6L Settlement Class Vehicles (NA6 warranty key), the New Vehicle Limited Warranty will be extended to cover 80% of the replacement of the Water Pump or Water Pump Gasket by an authorized Volkswagen Dealer to 8.5 years or 85,000 miles, whichever occurs first, from the vehicle’s original in-service date.

This supporting FAQ is for the Turbocharger Limited Warranty Extension Class Action Settlement. This extension includes 2008-2015 GTI and Golf R*, 2012-2013 VW Beetle*, 2009 VW Jetta SportWagen*, 2013 VW Jetta Sedan and GLI*, 2009-2016 VW Eos*, 2008-2010 VW Passat*, 2009-2017 VW CC*, 2009-2018 VW Tiguan*, Certain model year 2015-2018 VW Golf*, 2015-2021 VW …

For applicable Settlement Class Vehicles, the New Vehicle Limited Warranty will be extended to cover 50% of the repair or replacement of the Turbocharger by an authorized Volkswagen Dealer for 8.5 years or 85,000 miles, whichever occurs first, from the vehicle’s in-service date.

This is a notice for software changes with the ODIS diagnostic program to correct the communication during vehicle programming function: A software fix is needed to correct the issue: DA 0019 - Hotfix 12-V battery test(s) – No battery diagnosis - Inconclusive test result.

This is a notice for software changes with the ODIS diagnostic program to correct the communication during vehicle programming function: A software fix is needed to correct multiple test plans: All basic settings test for the following components - Fill and bleed cooling system issue, N493, J338, Camshaft, V465 etc. Use this test for all the basic setting. …

This is a notice for software changes with the ODIS diagnostic program to correct the communication during vehicle programming function: A software fix is needed to correct a test that is not reading any information from the battery data module (BDM) and will output:

Diagnosis for Excessive Current Draw.

A "How To" activate Car Net® 2.0 - Emergency Call Module and Communication Unit -J949-Vehicle is Offline (Not Connected)

Remote Key Battery Replacement

Day time running light has failed on the driver’s side. $1000 plus for the parts and labor. Reduces visibility and presents a hazard to other motorists

HEAD LIGHT ASSEMBLY. ÐRL LIGHT BURNT OUT RISKING MY SAFETY DAYTIME DRIVING

Something NHSTA should look into is an ongoing problem with the SOS system in the Volkswagen ATALS. In my case, the module was first replaced in 02/21/2025 with 46,973 miles on my 2021 Atlas SEL AWD V6. My vehicle was out of warranty so that repair cost just under $1,200.00. The module went out again and was replaced on 10/20/2025, with 56,437 miles. This repair was covered since the part was still under warranty. The module most recently went out again and was replaced on 10/15/2026, with 68,992 miles on my Atlas. The dealer covered the repair as I was approximately 500 over the warranty period. They called it a "Onetime goodwill for customer satisfaction". I never received any explanation on the root cause for these failures or if there was a recall on this module/SOS System. I have reported this issue to the VW Customer Care Program, and was informed that I need to work with my dealer for this issue. I explained the problem goes beyond the dealer at this point and was looking for an explanation or if VW USA was working on this problem as it is well documented online in VW Forums. They said they could not do that and I must work with the dealer. Hence, my reaching out to NHSTA today. This SOS System, besides being an emergency call button, when this system goes out, it shuts down numerous systems. Including; cruise control , lane assist, lane departure and remote start using VW APP. Many members on forums have reported other problems. This is clearly a frustrating problem f

Purchased my vehicle from a known dealership of Volkswagen, I’ve had the vehicle for 6 months and within the first three months my SOS system stopped working. I went to have it diagnosed and they stated that there is a back order on the module for the replacement. Now I’m experiencing a sweet smell coming from the vents, sometimes heat is interment and the windows have a film on them.

About a week ago I noticed that my 2021 Volkswagen atlas 2021 signature LED strip that functions as the Daytime Running Light (DRL) not working. I search online and there’s a lot of complaints about the same problem with this car It says it’s a very common and expensive problem

The hood cable became faulty and unusable which prevent access to under the hood. The service department at the Plainfield, CT VW dealership stated to me that the hood lock and cable is a common problem with my model. Labor was the most costly factor in getting the problem area fixed. The parts are under a lifetime warranty because the parts will break again. I now know that i'll have to pay $$$ in labor work just to get the consistent problem fixed again and again. I didn't know this problem existed until I tried to open my hood one day to replenish windshield washer fluid. I found out that my hood was opened by pliers to open the hatch by the dealership two months prior when the VW was in for an oil change. The dealership took zero responsibility and I had to pay hundreds of dollars in labor and parts to replace the hood latch and cable. I have two very young kids and I am lucky that I caught the problem at a convenient time.

Right headlight assembly must be replaced because daytime running light failed and cannot be repaired separately.

Malfunctioning Component/System: The vehicle is experiencing two separate, severe safety malfunctions: Issue 1 (Engine Stalling): The engine completely shuts off while the vehicle is actively in "Drive." Issue 2 (Unintended Lockout): The vehicle automatically locks all doors with the keys inside, even when the engine is off and doors are being actively used. Safety Risk to Others: Issue 1: The sudden engine shutoffs occur while waiting at stoplights, stop signs, or in moving school student drop-off zones. This creates an immediate risk of a rear-end collision or being stranded in active traffic. Issue 2: This defect creates a critical life-safety hazard for children. While the car was parked and turned off, I placed my purse (containing the keys) on the passenger side and buckled my children into their car seats. Upon closing the rear door, the vehicle instantly locked itself, trapping my young children inside a completely turned-off, locked vehicle while leaving me stranded outside. This presents a severe risk of child entrapment, extreme cabin heat, or delayed rescue in an emergency. 3. Dealer Confirmation & Reproduction: Because both issues occur intermittently, they are difficult to reproduce on command. The vehicle will be scheduled to be brought to an authorized Volkswagen dealership to scan for historical fault codes alongside an open PODS recall repair. However, please note the dealership says this takes 4 hours, which makes it very difficult to schedule. 4. External

A car cut in front of me and I swerved to avoid a crash and hit the street curb. My right front tire blew and all curtain airbags blew. I was able to coast forward and turn into a parking lot entrance driveway. The impact was not large enough to damage the rim and simply blew the tire. In my opinion this was not a large enough impact to require airbag deployment and presented a dangerous situation where all the airbags made it impossible to see while needing to continue control of the car.

Drivers side daytime running light failed under normal use.

The vehicle’s 5F infotainment control module intermittently/continually fails, causing loss of the center display and backup camera. The vehicle has been diagnosed by an authorized Volkswagen dealer as requiring replacement of the 5F module. The replacement module is currently back-ordered. This is a safety concern because the failure causes loss of the rearview camera.

The vehicle stalls at slow speeds requiring the driver to place it in “park” and manually restart it.

Daytime Running Lamps inoperable

There was a failure of the air conditioner condensation drain line, resulting in saturation of the interior carpet and padding. This situation was confirmed by the dealer today. There was a prior recall for this issue in 2022, at which time our car was inspected by the dealer. According to the recall notice, this issue may cause air bags to deploy. Fortunately in our case they did not, but we are concerned about Volkswagon’s ability to adequately inspect and repair the problem. In addition, the interior of our car has experienced significant water damage as a result of the clogged line.

My 2021 Volkswagen Atlas experienced an unexpected engine malfunction and entered limp mode while idling in park. An official diagnostic scan confirmed active fault code P10B300 (monitoring of fuel injector for cylinder failure detected); requiring a complete fuel injector, and harness replacement quoted at $2600. This identical component failure and model year match the exact parameters of VW safety recall 24iD (NHTSA campaign 22V245000) which addresses Atlas fuel injectors manufactured without internal filters. Volkswagen customer care has rigidly refused to cover this safety defect because my specific VIN falls outside their narrow production tracking dates, despite suffering the identical mechanical failure. I request an investigation to force an expansion of the 24iD recall parameters to cover this VIN batch

Vehicle lost total control on the freeway I lost control crashed off the freeway into a ditch no airbags deployed the whole frame was total loss the entire atlas lost control No airbags as I went into a ditch hit a freeway sign and I’m still suffering nerve damage and chronic back pain

My 2021 Volkswagen Atlas at 58,000 miles the passenger side daytime running light stopped working. This is a replacement that can only be completed with an entire headlight assembly replaced the cost of a headlight assembly is between $1800- $2500 which is an astronomical amount to replace just the LED daytime running light.

Passenger side DRL has failed - requires replacement of entire headlamp assembly

The vehicle will randomly stall while driving. Mostly as you push the accelerator, it will act as though a fuel filter is clogged causing it to stall. If the vehicle manages to continue forward without stalling, it lunges forward unexpectedly and can be a significant distance. I took my vehicle in over a year ago for this issue, was told it was a "software update" issue. Vehicle was 4 years old and still under the VW remote access program. I paid almost $1,000 to get this software issue corrected. It is happening again. I am still under the VW remote access program, no warnings or updates. Two days ago, it randomly stalled in a moving lane of traffic. I was almost rear ended. It did it again yesterday at an intersection and lunged forward almost striking another vehicle. This is not a normal "maintenance" issue. There is something in the software overriding the driver. It could be in the auto stop/start feature maybe, but the canister was checked and I was told it was in great shape. I have low mileage on this vehicle. I did have a crash almost 2 years ago in which my vehicle lunged forward in freeway traffic. I had very minimal damage to the front fender because luckily, I was a distance back from the other vehicle. I had not had an accident in decades, so I second guessed myself thinking maybe I did something. But I really don't think it was. I was stopped, slightly released the brake when it jumped.

The hood release cable on my 2021 Volkswagen broke, making it impossible to open the hood using the interior release handle. This type of part should not fail on a relatively new vehicle under normal use. Based on my research, many other Volkswagen owners have reported similar hood release cable failures online, which suggests this may be a widespread issue rather than an isolated failure. This is a safety concern because a broken hood release cable prevents access to the engine compartment when inspection, maintenance, or emergency access may be necessary. Volkswagen should investigate this recurring failure and cover the cost of the repair. I believe NHTSA should investigate whether this defect warrants a safety recall.

The hood release cable on my 2021 Volkswagen Atlas failed during normal use, making it impossible to open the hood or access the engine compartment. I took the vehicle to an authorized Volkswagen dealership, where the cable was replaced. The Volkswagen service advisor told me this is a common issue on 2021–2023 Atlas models. Volkswagen of America subsequently denied my request for reimbursement based on the vehicle’s age and mileage. I am reporting this because failure of the hood release mechanism creates a safety concern. When the cable fails, the owner cannot access the battery, coolant, oil or engine compartment. In an emergency involving overheating, smoke, a dead battery, fluid loss or another mechanical problem, there is no way for the driver to access the engine compartment. There was no warning before the cable failed. Other 2021 Atlas owners have reported similar hood release cable failures to NHTSA, including complaints #11743559, #11735490 and #11755775. Volkswagen has also previously issued manufacturer communications concerning an inoperative hood release/cable disconnection on the 2021 Atlas. Given these similar reports and my Volkswagen dealer’s statement that this is a common problem on 2021–2023 Atlas models, I am concerned this is a recurring component defect rather than normal wear and tear. I am requesting that NHTSA evaluate whether this issue warrants further investigation or a safety recall. Total paid: $301.73. Invoice available but I am unable to upl

LED DRL headlight on the passenger side failed at 35k miles. That little, single LED light cannot be replaced without replacing the entire headlight system, which costs almost $2k and requires removing the bumper! Negligent design that conveniently happens once the warranty expired, and despite the low miles of my vehicle. (these are supposed to last to 50k-70k)

My 2021 Volkswagen Atlas had no problems with the emergency call/SOS system before this incident. Volkswagen prompted me through the vehicle to install a software update. I accepted and completed the Volkswagen software update as instructed. Immediately after the update finished, the SOS indicator turned red and the vehicle displayed the warning: “Emergency call function limited. Please service vehicle.” The problem did not exist before the software update and began immediately after the update was completed. I took the vehicle to Ewald Volkswagen in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin. The dealer diagnosed a failed J949 emergency call module and quoted $1,028.80 to replace it. The dealer advised me that the software update likely caused the module failure, but stated that the vehicle is out of warranty and Volkswagen would not cover the repair through the dealership. I declined the repair because the emergency call module was functioning normally before Volkswagen instructed me to perform the software update. The failure occurred immediately after installing Volkswagen’s update. This is a safety concern because the vehicle now indicates that the emergency call function is limited, meaning the vehicle’s automatic or manual emergency-call capability may not function properly during a crash or other emergency. I am reporting this because a Volkswagen-issued software update appears to have caused the failure of a safety-related emergency communication system.

2021 Volkswagen Atlas—VIN 1V2AP2CA0MC565982. Vehicle manufactured 02/2021. Airbag warning light illuminated. Volkswagen dealer diagnosed the airbag control module as wet and shorted due to water leaking into the vehicle from the A/C drain. This appears identical to the defect described by Volkswagen Safety Recall 87H4 / NHTSA 21V-892. Recall 87H4 includes certain 2021 Atlas vehicles manufactured during this period; however, Volkswagen states this VIN is not included. I am concerned the affected VIN population may have been defined too narrowly because this vehicle has experienced the same safety-related failure mechanism described in the recall. Please see attached VW dealer diagnosis and build sticker image. Also available is video from tech if needed.

Headlight LED DRLs went out on passenger side at only 60k miles. To fix, the whole headlight would need to be replaced which is >$1k. LED bulbs should last much longer and there are many other instances of the same problem from other owners across various forums. Seems like this is a VW issue and should warrant a recall.

The engine stalls randomly while in motion. When this happens, an error gets presented on the dashboard asking the driver to restart it manually. This has occurred when driving forward and backing up. This car was purchased at CarMax and serviced through the extended warranty. However, a few weeks later the problem started happening again.

My vehicle prompted me to do an update on software. As soon as I completed this my SOS button turned red. I immediately contacted my Volkswagen app and told them what was going on I was instructed that they did not see anything on their end that I would need to take it to a dealer and let them check it out upon my arrival at the Dealer they’re telling me that my module needs to be replaced please note that I have no issues with my SOS button until I was prompt to update . This is definitely a safety concern being that I’m paying for an emergency button that is not operable at this time I feel that this should be Volkswagen should pay for the cost of this because I would’ve never hit update if I knew it was gonna cause these issues I feel unsafe in my vehicle based on Volkswagen pump me to push the button thank you

On multiple occasions at startup, vehicle made unusual sounds then either stalled shortly after starting or simply wouldn’t start. Vehicle has also stalled multiple times at red lights and stop signs. On these occasions nearly the entire dashboard lit up simultaneously with warning lights across many unrelated systems (“Christmas tree” effect), not a single isolated fault, often while on interstate at 70mph. Recurring, not one-time. 1.ELECTRICAL/ABS: Aug 2025, right front ABS wheel speed sensor replaced after dash lights loss + reported dying after startup; dealer couldn’t duplicate stalling. As of Aug 2026, scan shows left front ABS sensor faulting (open/short to ground, implausible signal) plus parking brake module fault referencing wheel speed sensor implausibility. Dealer also flagged left rear ABS sensor as Critical. Numerous low-voltage faults present across modules simultaneously (supply voltage too low, data bus implausible, control module input power low), matching dashboard cascade events. Battery replaced May 2024 after failing load test. 2.ENGINE: Dec 2024, cylinder 6 injector replaced (complete goodwill, dealer+VW corporate) for CEL/air-fuel imbalance. CEL returned next month for same fault; escalated to full cylinder head replacement ($6,054.95). 3.STEERING: Dealer inspection Aug 2026 flagged steering rack and pinion as Critical ($2,093.19), req. 4-wheel alignment. Confirmed with NHTSA/VW this vehicle is NOT subject to steering knuckle recall 21V026000/40Q7 — se

LED DRL headlight stopped working on the passenger side at 90k miles

Hood latch release cable broke after using under normal circumstances.

Passenger side headlight failed prematurely resulting in only one of the headlights functioning

Upon visual inspection of the car. Noticed driver’s side headlight outter light not working with no warning indicator. Have been pulled over since issue was first discovered by police. I believe it’s called daytime driving light part of the headlight.

Aluminum rear differential corroded, causing Haldex fluid to leak out resulting in Haldex pump, failure and loss of rear-wheel-drive ie.(4 motion) causing catastrophic failure of clutch pack.

I own a 2021 Volkswagen Atlas with approximately 61,000 miles. After a software update prompted by the vehicle, saying it will be done in 3 parts.the infotainment screen began malfunctioning the following day. Initially, the screen would repeatedly go black, restart, work for a short period of time, and then go black again. This issue continued for almost three weeks. The screen is now completely black and no longer turns on. I contacted a Volkswagen dealership about the issue and was informed that I would be charged approximately $220 for diagnostic work before determining the cause of the problem.i haven't brought it in yet as I'm waiting to be paid as I'm sure they would need payment The problem began shortly after the vehicle's software update, and I am concerned that the update may have caused or contributed to the infotainment system failure. I am reporting this issue because I believe other 2021 Volkswagen Atlas owners may be experiencing similar infotainment system failures. I would like NHTSA to investigate whether this is a widespread defect and whether a safety-related recall or other corrective action is necessary. As it's safely concern I cannot see back up camera or any safety features.

Passenger side Daytime Running Light went out. The vehicle had under 60k miles. Seems like a common problem. For now will not replace because of high price tag and not necessary for safety inspection. The problem is that negates the safety feature on the car.

Hood release cable broken. Cannot open hood

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vehicle safety components bypassed

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