50 of the
281 complaints about the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas are about the
braking system — 18% of everything
reported for this model year.
Half of the failures with a mileage on record happened before
14,000 miles.
Software update for the vehicle. Since we have completed the update we have had issues with the Radio unit flashing in and out intermittenly and finally the unit went black and will not work at all. This is now showing multiple fault codes including. Engine control module 1 (U105400), Brakes 1(C102D00), Adaptive Cruise Control (U112100), Dash Board (U111000), Gateway (U105400), Telematics Communication Unit (B104914, U112100,B1916f4), Light Control Left 2 (U140700,C123AFA) Light Control Right 2 (C123AFA). None of these codes started till the System update happened.
NHTSA complaint #11756322 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Freeport, TX
SERVICE BRAKES
i was exiting HWY 45 at highway speed. the car began to stutter, i lost control of the propulsion of the vehicle, the breaks did not seem to work, the EPC light came on after rolling to a stop. i had to put the car in park and upon turning the car off and back on the cars EPC light went off and i was able to drive it home. it now sits in my driveway and has not been moved since.
NHTSA complaint #11755826 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 10,000 milesSaratoga Spring, UT
PARKING BRAKE
The contact owns a 2022 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the emergency brake engaged without warning. All the warning lights were illuminated. The windows went up and down without application. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer for NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V152000 (Air Bags). The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to another local dealer, Volkswagen South Towne Service and Parts Department: 11000 Frontage Rd, South Jordan, UT 84095, where it was diagnosed that the driver door module had failed. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, who informed there was no warranty coverage and no additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 10,000.
NHTSA complaint #11738050 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Wellford, SC
SERVICE BRAKES
Brake system-Unresolved repair and inadequate investigation.
NHTSA complaint #11704712 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Cherry Hill, NJ
SERVICE BRAKES
Drumming/Grinding Brakes and my pads and rotors are still have life left on them. This is an ongoing problem.
NHTSA complaint #11699655 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
La Mesa, CA
SERVICE BRAKES
Brakes are squealing and grinding noises when i break. This noises are present no matter the speed. VW Dealership from Kearny Mesa VW, San Diego, California USA. Engine: Start/Stop does shutdown during driving after the autostop system. Electric: Sensors is causing false alerts. I deactivated the system, because the system is constantly detecting alerts for no real threats,
NHTSA complaint #11685519 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 30,000 milesLanham, MDCrash
SERVICE BRAKES
The contact owns a 2022 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated that while at a stoplight with vehicles in the front and rear, the vehicle suddenly accelerated, lunged forward, and crashed into a Chevrolet pickup truck. The brake pedal was applied but failed to respond. There were no warning lights illuminated. There were reported injuries, a police report, airbag deployment, or a fire. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, who was unable to service the vehicle due to parts. The vehicle was towed to an auto body shop. Then towed back to the same local dealer, where an unknown diagnosis and repair were completed. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The manufacturer reported that the vehicle was not the cause of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000. The VIN was not available.
NHTSA complaint #11679379 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Maumee, OHCrash
SERVICE BRAKES
My atlas forward collision system malfunctioned causing the automatic emergency braking to turn on when there was no one and nothing in front of me. I was then rear ended. Which ultimately totaled my vehicle. My car said airbag error as well. I called Volkswagen Perrysburg Ohio, to report the incident, was sent to the managers voicemail 7/16/2025. The manager never called me back.
NHTSA complaint #11675853 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Spanaway, WA
SERVICE BRAKES
Error: Airbag and the passenger airbag isn’t working. There is a recall for the atlas but my vin isn’t in there. No recall for the brakes but they are in a class action lawsuit and they are squeeling, vibrate and feel like they won’t stop. Dealership claims nothing wrong. But my car I traded in didn’t feel like this. Vw need to take action before accidents happen.
NHTSA complaint #11671471 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Marietta, GA
SERVICE BRAKES
Loud metallic grinding sound when braking is present all the time. The dealer indicated that this is normal for the VW Atlas. However, the issue is that the driver will never know when the brake is functioning properly compared to the sound that often indicates worn-out brake pads (where the metal backing plate is scraping against the rotor). This could cause a collision if not properly fixed.
NHTSA complaint #11660819 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Plano, TX
SERVICE BRAKES
Since the car was purchased brand new, I have had severe brake grinding noises, brake grabbing, and inconsistent braking at both slow and high speeds. I've taken to the dealership many times to have the brakes checked and told each time the noise is a common complaint. I have requested the brakes be further inspected and one time the brakes were measured and was told it was within normal wear when the car had less than 15,000 miles. The noises and inconsistency of brakes makes it unsafe to operate.
NHTSA complaint #11654521 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Groveport, OH
SERVICE BRAKES
Error start/stop, vehicle has been stalling while moving at a slow speed or while idle, sitting in a drivethru ordering food,pulling into parking spot or turning off of the road at the light. The vehicle stalls out you have to put it in park to restart . Very dangerous especially while in the road. Just purchased vehicle February 3rd 2025, have had other issues very same night ,check left taillight kept coming on, but taillight not out, took to dealership ery next morning, they stated could not duplicate, nothing they can do, it is still doing it. Brakes when backing out started making a noise now too.
NHTSA complaint #11652984 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
San Diego, CA
SERVICE BRAKES
significant brake noise issues (grinding, squeaking, and gurgling sounds). it does feel inconsistent braking. This issue is a constant driving problem every day. I requested a car inspection at Kearny Mesa Volkswagen (8040 Balboa Ave, San Diego, CA 92111). They stated this was normal for this car (Atlas), and I just needed to brake harder. This is not normal to be driving with this issues and brings family safety concerns and an ultimate high repair in the future for lacking of customer services from Volkswagen
NHTSA complaint #11639778 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
San Ramon, CA
SERVICE BRAKES
1. Noise from the Front End - Shortly after purchasing the vehicle, I noticed a persistent noise coming from the front end while driving. I reported this issue to the dealership within the first 30 days of ownership, but they were unable to identify or resolve the problem on multiple occasions. Eventually, I took the vehicle to Dublin Volkswagen, where the issue was diagnosed, but I had to pay $80 out-of-pocket for the diagnostic fee. 2. Stalling Issue - The vehicle has been sporadically stalling, which initially led me to believe it was related to the auto stop/start feature. However, I later discovered that this is a recurring issue reported by other Volkswagen Atlas owners [XXX] ). This stalling issue has occurred multiple times, even to my brother during his visit from Canada. Given that this vehicle is used to transport children and other passengers, this is a serious safety concern and liability risk. Picture of message that pops up when the issue occurs. 3. Brake Performance Problems - The brakes have been squealing and exhibit shaking and grinding during use after sitting for different periods of time. Despite contacting the dealership (Dorito Brothers Volkswagen) numerous times about this issue, I have been repeatedly dismissed by their service advisors, technicians and manager. Their lack of attention to detail and unwillingness to address my concerns has eroded my confidence in their ability to service the vehicle properly. I was also informed that Volkswagen would be dealing with the brakes issues by the end of the fourth quarter in 2024 but to-date nothing has been heard nor done. They are recommending brake pads and rotors but why are those needing to be replaced after less than a year of owning it. There's more going on than they are disclosing. Attached is a copy of a report from a different dealer than the car was purchased from. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11635738 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Annandale, VA
SERVICE BRAKES
I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with the recurring brake issues I have experienced with my 2022 Volkswagen Atlas. On December 23, 2023, I took my vehicle to the Alexandria VW dealership in Virginia due to a water-gargling sound that turned out to be related to the brakes. The dealer recommended replacing the brake pads, which I agreed to, at a cost of $700. However, in October 2024, less than a year later, the same issue reoccurred. The same dealership is now recommending that I replace the brake pads again. When I questioned the short lifespan of the brake pads, I was told that modern brake pads typically last less than a year due to California brake laws. This explanation does not seem reasonable, as brake pads should generally last much longer under normal conditions. Furthermore, I believe there may be an underlying issue with the brake system that has not been adequately addressed, leading to this premature wear. I am very disappointed with the quality of service and the lack of a permanent solution to this issue. I kindly request: A thorough investigation into the cause of the recurring brake problem. A permanent fix for the issue, or guidance on how to proceed if the vehicle cannot be repaired to meet reasonable standards. Reimbursement or compensation for the repeated cost of brake pad replacement, if applicable. I need your assistance for this matter. Thank you!
NHTSA complaint #11626543 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
San Antonio, TX
SERVICE BRAKES
Brand new vehicle comes with horrible quality brake pads. The sounds come and go, but usually happens on the initial start of driving. The sounds do not sound normal and multiple 2021 Atlas' have this issue. It's really a shame that they are allowed to sell "new" vehicles with quality of brakes.
NHTSA complaint #11610384 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Dana Point, CA
SERVICE BRAKES
The brakes in this vehicle grind, squeal and jutter and have done so since 3k miles. Under hard stopping conditions I am not confident with this braking system. We have taken the car to the dealership multiple times and every time they advise there is nothing they can do. We have reported the issue to VW of America and they have told me that this is normal, but brakes making these types of sounds and operating this way is not normal.
NHTSA complaint #11581914 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fremont, CA
SERVICE BRAKES
Leased vehicle in Aug 2022, brand new. Approx. six months later the vehicle exhibited a recurring noise when braking which sounds like a grinding. The noise is also accompanied with a gurgling sound when stopping originating from the engine compartment on the driver's side. Dealership said it might be break dust, they cleaned the area and test drove the vehicle. It worked fine for less than a day before the noise returned. Additionally, the car has surged when at a stop and turned off unexpected with Auto Start/Stop off. Dealership diagnosed the issues as related to the battery from the factory but stated it is not yet with in the failure limits to constitute a warranty replacement. Just to be clear, the battery is failing but not at the rate the manufacture would cover the replacement. Told by the dealer to wait until the problem becomes worse so they can replace it under warranty.
NHTSA complaint #11577211 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Las Vegas, NV
SERVICE BRAKES
vehicle has recurring noise when braking, sounds like a grinding. There is also a gurgling noise when stopping coming from the engine compartment on the driver's side.
NHTSA complaint #11575866 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Liberty Hill, TX
SERVICE BRAKES
There needs to be a recall on all 2022 Volkswagen Atlas. There is a major issue with the braking system that if goes unaddressed, will cause accidents. There are many, many people complaining about it and I’m guessing until we start seeing deaths related to it, nothing will get done. The braking system is grinding, squealing and jumping when attempting to brake. This is going to continue to get worse until something gets fixed.
NHTSA complaint #11574437 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Austin, TX
SERVICE BRAKES
The brakes make an awful grinding noise that sounds like metal on metal . When braking the collision alert system will go off as if a crash is inevitable like no one is braking. I have had pedestrians flag me down and tell men that the noise is a brake rotor issue and that the pads must be completely gone cause they have never heard them sound that bad. The dealer claims they are fine and it is a know issue and safe even if the collision alert system goes off unnecessarily. The most dangerous thing is the lack of interest they have in investigating the problem.
NHTSA complaint #11572822 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
West Covina, CA
SERVICE BRAKES
Breaks grind as if they are used up but vehical is new and shouldnt have run through the pad so quickly Breaking becoming harder to stop
NHTSA complaint #11565491 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Round Rock, TX
SERVICE BRAKES
Very loud grinding noises and squeaking especially in the mornings when you use the brakes.
NHTSA complaint #11565101 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Carmichael, CA
SERVICE BRAKES
When I start driving the vehicle after it has been sitting for a little while (anywhere between a couple hours to overnight), the first few times I use the brakes, it sounds and feels like the brakes are grinding. There is a loud metallic grinding noise until I come to a full stop. This will last for several miles, and eventually go away. At the same time it does this, the driver side alert (cameras) start beeping like crazy. I have taken it in once as it started very shortly after I got the car and they replaced the brakes to appease me even though they said everything looked perfectly fine. They also said the sensors for the camera just needed cleaning off. All of this started happening again about 6 months later. In addition, I also have issues with the car shutting off whenever it feels like it and requiring a manual restart, In the middle of intersections, etc.
NHTSA complaint #11564030 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Ladera Ranch, CA
SERVICE BRAKES
brand new car of VW 2022 Atlas Premium, but, with the brake grinding noise issue from starting driving this brand new car. The dealer acknowledged this noise issue, but, stated no safety issue, and asked me to call VW directly. We called VW directly, they said, no safety issue. We questioned we spent about $60k for this brand new car, why having such extremely brake noise from driving from day #1 , why the manufacture and dealer did not take care and fix this issue? and such grinding noise made my wife not dare to press the brake hardly. Such noise made the driver feel so scared, and this scare potentially cause the safety issue.
NHTSA complaint #11562139 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Blanchard, OK
SERVICE BRAKES
Brakes started going out at 20,000 miles along with tires falling apart.
NHTSA complaint #11559377 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Covina, CA
SERVICE BRAKES
My brakes have been making a weird sound when I break and at times grind as if the brakes need to be changed. I have taken my car to be serviced for this issue and they tell me that my brakes are great with no issues. That the Atlas have that issue but it’s normal. There are times that it seems my brakes fail. This poses a safety risk for me and my family
NHTSA complaint #11559066 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Port Saint Lucie, FL
SERVICE BRAKES
1. Dealer has accepted the problem and indicated they are unable to do anything, that all Atlas do the brake screetching and sensors going off with no reason. 2. Brakes- Everytime at starting the car in the morning or around 15 to 30 minutes after use (parked), they screech and it feels as if the pads slide and not truly break. This happens always along with a water-like gargling sound. The screeching also makes the sensors go off. The concern is the safety as you can feel the breaks do not respond the same when this happens vs after using three or four stops. You can feel and hearvhow the pads slide and the car has difficulty breaking. 2. The left side sensors of the mirror and side of car go off random and it is annoying to say the least. The safety issue is that when you are driving, reaching a stop and they go off, it can somewhat scare you and you then hit the breaks thinking something is really there being sensed by the sensors. This could cause an accident. I have videos of the sensors problem showing how even though there is nothing around, they go off. I alao have videos of the breaks making the noice.
NHTSA complaint #11558524 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lake Forest, CA
SERVICE BRAKES
Automatic braking happened when crossing an intersection. I pressed the gas to go and went a couple of feet before the automatic braking kicked in. I had to put the car in park and restart the car. Luckily I was at the front of the traffic line so I was not going at a high speed because if I had been on the freeway, etc. this would have been so dangerous . This car has 15K miles and things like this should not be happening. I have 5 kids and this would cause detrimental damage at high speeds. I started having brake issues (grinding noises, brake slippage etc.) only a couple months after getting the vehicle and have been to dealer several times to resolve the issues but no fix has lasted more than a couple months. I have an appointment to go in again next week to check automatic braking as well as the grinding noises again as they also happening again. Apparently faulty brakes are a known issue that VW will not fix. It was one thing to have to go into the dealership every quarter to get them replaced, but now this added issue of the automatic brake turning off makes me feel very unsafe to drive it. VW needs to do something to resolve the brake issues on the Atlas.
NHTSA complaint #11553593 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 14,000 milesAustin, TX
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2022 Volkswagen Atlas. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was depressed, and the brakes made an abnormally loud squeaking sound. The vehicle then lost motive power. The vehicle was able to be restarted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 14,000.
NHTSA complaint #11553356 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.