2021 Volkswagen Arteon

Introduction

The 2021 Volkswagen Arteon is a stylish and spacious fastback sedan that offers a comfortable and engaging driving experience. It is powered by a standard 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Arteon is also available with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 276 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Owners generally praise the Arteon for its stylish design, spacious interior, and enjoyable driving dynamics. However, some common issues have been reported with the vehicle.

Engine

2.0-liter Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

• Carbon Buildup
  • Description/Symptoms: Accumulation of carbon deposits on the intake valves, leading to reduced power, rough idling, and increased fuel consumption.
  • Solution: Intake valve cleaning or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the timing chain tensioner, resulting in a rattling or ticking noise from the engine.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
• Recalls: NHTSA Campaign ID: 22V154000 (Timing chain tensioner failure)

3.6-liter V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission

Eight-Speed Automatic

• Hesitation/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent hesitation or jerking during gear shifts, especially at low speeds.
  • Solution: Transmission software update or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
• Clunking Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Loud clunking noise when shifting into reverse or drive.
  • Solution: Replacement of the transmission mount.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Seven-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic

• Dry Clutch Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear of the dry clutches, leading to slipping and shuddering during acceleration.
  • Solution: Replacement of the clutch assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,500+
• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the mechatronic unit, resulting in difficulty shifting gears or transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the mechatronic unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+

Suspension

• Front Strut Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn or damaged front strut bearings, causing clunking or rattling noises from the suspension.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front strut bearings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Electrical

• Headlight Alignment Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Misalignment of the headlights, resulting in poor visibility at night.
  • Solution: Adjustment or replacement of the headlight assemblies.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Electronic Control Unit (ECU) Software Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: Occasional software glitches in the ECU, causing intermittent electrical problems.
  • Solution: Software update or ECU replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+

Exterior

• Sunroof Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks from the panoramic sunroof during heavy rain or car washes.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the sunroof seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+

Interior

• Infotainment System Lag
  • Description/Symptoms: Occasional sluggishness or freezing of the infotainment system.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
• Seat Heater Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning seat heaters, failing to heat up or overheating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the seat heater elements or wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+

Summary

The 2021 Volkswagen Arteon is a generally reliable vehicle with a comfortable and engaging driving experience. However, some potential issues have been reported that range in severity and cost. The most common issues include carbon buildup in the 2.0-liter engine, transmission hesitation or jerking, and electrical glitches. Overall, the majority of owners are satisfied with their Arteon, but some may encounter these issues that can be costly to repair.