2018 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2018 Volkswagen Atlas marked VW’s entry into the mid-size SUV market, offering spacious seating for up to seven passengers and a comfortable ride. Engine options included a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder producing 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.6L V6 generating 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. The four-cylinder was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the V6 could be had with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive, also paired with the eight-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the Atlas’s ample interior space and user-friendly technology, but some have reported issues with electrical glitches and drivetrain components.

Engine

2.0L TSI (Turbocharged Stratified Injection) I4

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling or whining noise from the engine bay, check engine light illuminated.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.6L VR6

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, particularly when cold, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts between gears, delayed engagement when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: Software update of the transmission control module (TCM). If the issue persists, valve body replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update: $150 - $300, Valve Body Replacement: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, Crashing, or rebooting of the infotainment screen; unresponsive touch inputs.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update: $100 - $300, Unit Replacement: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking properly with the remote or door switch.
  • Solution: Door lock actuator replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Black screen when shifting into reverse, distorted image, or no image displayed at all.
  • Solution: Check wiring connections to the camera. If connections are good, replace the camera.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Water Leaks (Sunroof/Moonroof)
  • Description/Symptoms: Water entering the cabin during rain or car washes, damp carpets, musty odor.
  • Solution: Clearing drain tubes. In severe cases, sunroof seal replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Drain cleaning: $100 - $200, Seal Replacement: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Rattles
  • Description/Symptoms: Annoying rattling or squeaking noises emanating from the dashboard area, particularly when driving on rough roads.
  • Solution: Locating and securing loose components within the dashboard. This may involve adding foam padding or tightening screws.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Volkswagen Atlas presents a mixed bag of potential issues. Engine problems, particularly with the timing chain tensioners on the VR6, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues can range from minor software glitches to valve body failures. Electrical problems, especially with the infotainment system, appear to be relatively common. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, such as turbocharger or timing chain replacement, can be quite costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor them into their purchasing decision. Overall, the issues tend to be moderate to severe in terms of their potential impact and cost, making a thorough inspection advisable before purchase.