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2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is a mid-size SUV coupe offering a stylish alternative to the standard Atlas. Engine options include 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. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the Atlas Cross Sport for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and user-friendly technology, while some criticize its fuel economy and occasionally sluggish acceleration with the base engine.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, loss of power, check engine light.
    • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+
    • Recalls: None Found

3.6L V6

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil drips under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level. Often originates from the valve cover gaskets or oil pan gasket.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the source of the leak
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

  • Rough Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts between gears, particularly at lower speeds. Hesitation when accelerating.
    • Solution: Transmission software update or, in some cases, valve body replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at highway speeds, especially under light acceleration.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • No Issues Found

Electrical

  • Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
    • Description/Symptoms: The touchscreen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or restarts intermittently.
    • Solution: Software update to the infotainment system. Sometimes, a hard reset (disconnecting the battery) is required. In rare cases, replacement of the infotainment unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (if software update) to $1,200+ (if unit replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Backup Camera Malfunction
    • Description/Symptoms: The backup camera displays a black screen, distorted image, or fails to activate when the vehicle is in reverse.
    • Solution: Check the camera wiring and connections. If the wiring is okay, replace the backup camera.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Sunroof Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin, particularly around the sunroof area during rain or car washes.
    • Solution: Clean the sunroof drain tubes and seals. In more severe cases, the sunroof seal or assembly may need replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Rattling Noises from Dashboard
    • Description/Symptoms: Annoying rattling or squeaking noises emanating from the dashboard, particularly when driving on rough roads.
    • Solution: Identify the source of the rattle (often loose trim pieces or wiring harnesses) and secure it with foam padding or clips.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (DIY fix) to $200+ (if professional repair)
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport has some common issues to be aware of. The most frequently reported problems involve electrical glitches within the infotainment system, and occasionally, concerns with the transmission’s shifting behavior. The engine can also present oil leaks and turbocharger issues. While some issues, like infotainment glitches, may be minor and resolved with software updates, others, such as transmission or turbocharger problems, can be more costly to repair. Overall, the issues appear to be of moderate severity, with the potential for expensive repairs if major components fail.

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