Although the Volkswagen Atlas has only been in production for three years, it has already gained a reputation for being a problematic vehicle. The 2018 model Atlas, for example, has ten recalls and hundreds of manufacturer communications. (Automobile manufacturers are required to submit copies of their communications to dealers and owners about defects, to the NHTSA.) These documents can be useful to owners because they identify known problems.
Manufacturer communications for the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas show that the electrical, engine and braking have issues.
The top complaint of the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas is braking. The vehicles’ automatic emergency braking (AEB) is designed to reduce crashes, but poorly deigned or calibrated systems have become a safety issue. Drivers say while crossing lanes of traffic or after leveling out from a down slope, the AEB will automatically activate leaving them with no control over the movement of the vehicle. In order to move again, they have to shift the transmission into neutral and restart the engine.
The second biggest complaint about the 2018 Atlas is the engine start-stop technology. Start-stop technology advertises cost savings and environmental benefits, however, repeated engine starts while supplying power to systems when the engine is off, requires powerful batteries and complex systems to run smoothly. These systems are vulnerable to problems, the biggest being batteries that prematurely die and leave drivers stranded.
Air conditioning defects are the third top complaints of the 2018 VW Atlas. If your a/c is blowing warm air, it is most likely low refrigerant pressure. Leaks and blocked condensers can result in worn compressors, failing blower motors and expensive repair cost. In a recall affecting the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas, an improperly installed HVAC drain tube allowed moisture to enter the airbag control unit, causing the airbag to unexpectedly deploy. This dangerous driving condition had thousands of owners returning to their dealers for repairs.
If you purchased or leased a defective Volkswagen Atlas in California that turned out to be a lemon, and need help to get rid of it, just fill out the above form or call us now for a free case evaluation.
