Volkswagen has long boasted its engineering prowess, however, consumers of the Volkswagen Atlas have lodged numerous complaints. Introduced in 2017, the Atlas is a sports utility vehicle that features three rows to carry additional passengers. Designed to compete with SUVs built by other automakers, such as Ford’s Explorer and Toyota’s Highlander, continued problems with the Atlas have prompted Volkswagen issue recalls.

The Atlas is a midsize SUV that Volkswagen manufactures in Tennessee and first introduced for the 2018 model year. Annual US sales of Atlas SUVs exceeded 80,000 vehicles in 2019. The 2018-20 Atlas models have suffered from a variety of major defects and Abeel & Associates has represented dozens of Atlas owners in Lemon Law cases.

Common Volkswagen Atlas Problems

The Volkswagen Atlas comes in the following models:

• Atlas TSI S, powered by a four-cylinder, turbocharged 2.0 liter engine with 235 hp
• Atlas S, available in front-wheel or four wheel drive
• Atlas SE, either 2.0 liter four cylinder engine or 3.6 liter V6, with front-wheel drive
• Atlas SE, with technology package, available with the 3.6-liter V6 engine
• Atlas SEL, includes memory seats and a factory-installed tow hitch
• Atlas SEL Premium, available exclusively with the V6 engine and all-wheel drive

Consumers have lodged complaints with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) centered on the Atlas’ brakes, electrical systems, and engine. The Atlas is equipped with automatic emergency brakes and pedestrain warning sensors that may malfunction and cause the vehicle to unexpectedly slam on the brakes. Another feature of the Volkswagen Atlas is the automatic start/stop system, which is designed to shut off the engine at rest to save gas. When the driver takes his or her foot off the brake, the starter should automatically refire the SUV. The system on the Atlas is defective, however, and is known to turn off unexpectedly and not restart. The 2018 Atlas generated 11 official recalls and nearly 200 complaints filed with the NHTSA.

VW Atlas Recalls

The Volkswagen Atlas, manufactured at the VW plant in Chattanooga, TN, has been the subject of recalls:

• In June 2018, Volkswagen announced the recall of more than 554,000 model year 2018 Atlas vehicles. The owner’s manual failed to inform customers about the child restraint size limitations and restrictions for the second row center seating position. If the child seat base is too wide, the center and adjacent outboard set belt buckles could be damaged and released unexpectedly, increasing the risk of injury in an accident. The automaker instructed dealers to inspect the affected set belt buckles and replace them as necessary. The automaker will also provide a supplement to the owner’s manual addressing child safety and seat restraints.
• In May 2018, VW recalled approximately 280 model-year 2018 Atlas SUVs due to a manufacturing defect that could cause the fuel tank on these vehicles to leak, increasing the risk of a fire. Dealers have been instructed to inspect and replace the fuel tanks at no cost. This comes on the heels of a similar problem that VW acknowledged in December 2017, recalling 58 model-year 2017 Atlas SUVs.

The Atlas claims we’ve handled have covered a range of issues, including:

• Navigation, audio and phone interface system failure
• False check engine light warnings
• Engine and transmission malfunctions
• HVAC system problems

Volkswagen Atlas Lemon Law Attorney

If your Volkswagen Atlas has experienced repeated problems that the dealer cannot or will not repair, the experienced Lemon Law attorneys at Timothy Abeel & Associates, P.C. can help. Our legal team is well versed in applicable Lemon Laws and routinely represents owners and lessees of the VW Atlas. We have a proven track record of pursuing successful Lemon Law claims.

By understanding the nature of Atlas’ defect and learning about its repair history, we will work to make sure the needed repairs are made. If the dealer or manufacturer refuses to cooperate, we will aggressively pursue a Lemon Law claim and fight for your rights. We will help you compile the required documentation, including the sales or lease contract, the manufacturer’s warranty, and any repair receipts detailing the nature of your complaint, the diagnosis of the problem, and the repairs that were made or attempted. We will handle all contacts with the dealer and/or manufacturer and work tirelessly to protect your rights.

While many of these cases can be resolved through negotiations with the automaker or dealer, we have the skills and resources to successfully litigate lemon law claims. If your Volkswagen Atlas Lemon Law claim is successful, you may be awarded significant compensation, including a repurchase, a replacement vehicle, cash compensation, and reasonable attorney’s fees. Contact our office today for a free consultation.