*Median odometer reading when the problem happened, where owners gave one. One complaint can name several problem areas.
Back over prevention › Warnings
The infotainment system on my 2025 VW Atlas experiences sudden, random total blackouts and complete system reboots while operating the vehicle. This critical software/hardware failure occurs during both wired and wireless Apple CarPlay connections. When the screen goes completely black, all system features instantly shut down, causing a severe safety hazard by completely disabling the rearview backup camera and driver-assist safety displays while maneuvering or driving. The vehicle has already been taken to an authorized dealership (Hiley Volkswagen) for a formal repair attempt, where an MIB3 recovery and software update were performed, but the safety defect persists. Volkswagen of America…
Oct 12, 2026Electrical system
Multiple occasions back up camera and entire screen not working when vehicle in reverse. Parking distance control and Maneuver braking function not working.
Oct 21, 2026Power train
Car would not shift back into drive after dropping child off at school. Multiple warning lights came on about hill assist. Needed towed. Ended up needing a new transmission due to what the dealer said was a mechanical defect.
Sep 1, 2026Electrical system
Even after the most recent recall âupdateâ has been completed, my reverse cameras freeze. Infotainment system crashed and goes black. Infotainment system had been issue ever since buying car. Has to be hard reset every other week to make functions work. Dealer says âno issuesâ.
Sep 24, 2026Service brakes
Vehicle: 2025 Volkswagen Atlas R-Line Incident Description: While driving on the freeway in rainy conditions through a construction zone, I applied the brakes to slow down. The brake pedal suddenly went soft, lost hydraulic pressure, and sank toward the floorboard. The vehicle failed to stop or slow down properly, creating an extreme safety hazard and a feeling of sliding without braking power. Approximately three hours later, the vehicle was stopped on a downward-inclined driveway to let out a passenger. With my foot held firmly down on the brake pedal, the vehicle failed to maintain hydraulic holding pressure. The primary braking system failed to hold the vehicle still, causing the SUV to…
Sep 23, 2026Engine
The vehicle has approximately 15,000 miles and itâs less than two years old. It has a pretty significant oil leak from the oil inlet tube. This leak was appearing from the rear differential despite starting at the turbo. I took the car to two different dealerships and after 3 visits and multiple hours of time, a dealership found a TSB related to my issue (212602). The oil leak is a known defect and VW does not authorize any repair or fix. I have contacted VW customer service multiple times using multiple methods and have not gotten a resolution. I have owned many vehicles from many different manufacturers and the customer service from VW customer care has been abysmal. I have all of the…
Aug 19, 2026Service brakes
Grinding plus vibration when you turn the wheels slightly and brake hard. Could be a stuck or dragging caliper, uneven pad wear, or a bent dust shield rubbing the rotor. Might be bolts that werenât tightened right on the brake and suspension parts.
Sep 1, 2026Unknown or other
I am submitting a formal complaint regarding a defective vehicle I purchased new, a 2025 Volkswagen Atlas, on April 7, 2025. Since the time of purchase, the vehicle has experienced persistent and significant issues with the infotainment system that substantially impair its usability, safety, and value. The infotainment system repeatedly disconnects from both wired and wireless connections to my cellphone. When the system disconnects, it does not reconnect at all during the drive. This results in loss of GPS navigation and hands-free phone functionality, creating a safety concern. I have made extensive efforts to have this issue resolved. The vehicle has been taken to two authorized…
Apr 14, 2025
Owner complaints are submitted to NHTSA by the public and are not verified. Shown as filed (NHTSA removes personal details); long reports are shortened.
