2020 Volkswagen Arteon

The 2020 Volkswagen Arteon is a stylish and sporty four-door hatchback marketed as a premium vehicle. It features a single engine option in the US: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the Arteon for its sleek design, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. Criticisms often include a somewhat dated infotainment system and a price point that puts it in competition with more established luxury brands.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (EA888)

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher-than-normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. The oil level warning light may illuminate frequently.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update or replacement of the PCV valve has resolved the issue. In more severe cases, piston ring replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (for PCV valve or software update) up to $2,000 - $5,000+ (for piston ring replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, whistling noises from the engine compartment, and potential fault codes related to turbocharger performance.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (Aisin)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced hard or jerky shifts, particularly when shifting between lower gears or during downshifts. Hesitation can occur when accelerating from a stop or low speeds.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update can improve shift quality. In other instances, valve body replacement or complete transmission replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (for software update) up to $1,500 - $4,000+ (for valve body or transmission replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Adaptive Damper Malfunction (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: If equipped with adaptive dampers, some owners report issues with the system malfunctioning, resulting in a harsh or uneven ride. Error messages may appear on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the specific damper and/or control module that is failing, followed by replacement of the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per damper, plus diagnostic fees.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may freeze, crash, or become unresponsive. Bluetooth connectivity issues, navigation problems, and screen glitches may also occur.
  • Solution: Software updates are often released to address these issues. In some cases, replacing the infotainment unit may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (for software update) up to $500 - $1,500+ (for unit replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions (Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring)
  • Description/Symptoms: Parking sensors may provide false alerts or fail to detect objects. Blind spot monitoring systems may become inoperative.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the faulty sensor(s) and replacement. Check wiring harnesses for damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks around the sunroof area. Difficulty opening or closing the sunroof. Unusual noises when operating the sunroof.
  • Solution: Cleaning of the sunroof drain tubes. Replacement of seals or sunroof motor may be needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ (for drain cleaning) up to $500 - $1,000+ (for seal or motor replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2020 Volkswagen Arteon appears to have a range of potential issues, mostly relating to the engine and electrical components, though not all owners experience them. Engine issues like oil consumption and turbo failures can be costly, while electrical issues can be frustrating. Suspension and sunroof problems add to the overall potential expense. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with estimated costs ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and consider obtaining a pre-purchase inspection.