2021 Volkswagen Arteon

The 2021 Volkswagen Arteon is a stylish and sporty liftback sedan that offers a blend of comfort and performance. It comes standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate the Arteon’s sleek design, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. Common criticisms include its higher price point compared to competitors and infotainment system quirks.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (EA888)

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling sound from the engine, check engine light. In some cases, the turbocharger can fail completely, requiring replacement.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine consumes an abnormally high amount of oil, requiring frequent top-offs. This can lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage. Blue smoke may be visible from the exhaust.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update can help mitigate the issue. In more severe cases, piston ring replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+ depending on the repair
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (Aisin)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts, especially at lower speeds. Hesitation or delay when accelerating.
  • Solution: Software update to transmission control module (TCM) or replacement of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slippage
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine RPM increases without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed. The transmission may feel like it is slipping out of gear.
  • Solution: Replacement of transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Adaptive Damper Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Uneven ride quality, clunking noises from the suspension, error messages related to the adaptive damping system.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty dampers or sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per damper
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or crashes frequently.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,500+ (unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions (Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring)
  • Description/Symptoms: False alerts or failure of parking sensors or blind spot monitoring system.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found
• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: False activation of the AEB system, or failure to activate when needed.
  • Solution: Recalibration of the AEB system or replacement of faulty sensors/modules.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof/Moonroof Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin, especially during heavy rain.
  • Solution: Cleaning and resealing the sunroof/moonroof drains.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises from Dashboard/Trim
  • Description/Symptoms: Annoying rattling noises emanating from the dashboard or interior trim panels, especially on rough roads.
  • Solution: Adding foam or felt padding to the affected areas to dampen vibrations.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Malfunctioning Power Windows/Locks
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of power windows or door locks.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty window regulators, door lock actuators, or switches.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per window/lock
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Volkswagen Arteon presents a mix of potential issues. Engine issues, particularly related to the turbocharger and oil consumption, can be expensive to address. Transmission problems can range from minor software glitches to significant component failures. Electrical gremlins, particularly with the infotainment system and sensors, also appear fairly common. While the Arteon offers a stylish and comfortable driving experience, prospective buyers should be aware of these potential pitfalls and consider a thorough inspection before purchase.