Legally reviewed by: Jessica Anvar Stotz, JD, MBA
Common problems with the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas include airbag problems, electrical system problems, forward collision avoidance system problems, and brake problems.
Eleven recalls have been issued for this vehicle: four of these were for airbag-related issues, two for tire-related issues, and five others for improper fuel tank welding, fracturing rear coil springs, and various electronics issues.
For many consumers, the idea of purchasing a car is both a positive one and a stressful one.
Though having a new driving experience and getting to enjoy modern features is exciting, doing the research and preparation to purchase a vehicle is usually not.
There is also simply a lot of information out there, which can make it difficult to determine what is true and what is not about a particular vehicle.
In this article, we will be consolidating complaints from all over the Internet so that you can be better informed as a buyer or owner. Then, we will go over the lemon law to explain how you can be compensated for purchasing a defective vehicle.
Common 2019 Volkswagen Atlas Problems
- Airbag Problems: Passenger airbag turns off, recall parts not available
- Electrical System Problems: Instrument panel black, infotainment system problems, car suddenly loses power
- Forward Collision Avoidance System Problems: Spontaneous activation of emergency brakes, faulty sensor readings
- Brake Problems: Brakes randomly engage, faulty brake booster problem
2019 VW Atlas Electrical System Problems
With how densely packed electronic systems are in modern vehicles, it is unsurprising that some number of them would malfunction.
In the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas, consumers reported their instrument panel turning off or being black, infotainment system problems, and their car suddenly losing power.
Drivers who are unable to see important information about their vehicle because the instrument cluster or infotainment system do not work will likely have an impaired driving experience that could be dangerous.
Therefore, electronics system problems like those should be treated seriously by the vehicle owner.
Volkswagen has issued two recalls for electronics-related problems. The first was issued in November 2018 and concerned the driver not being notified when the car was left in the ignition. The NHTSA Recall ID for this recall is 18V824.
The other recall was for headlights being too adjustable and was issued in May 2019. The NHTSA Recall ID is 19V389.
2019 VW Atlas Forward Collision Avoidance System Problems
The forward collision avoidance system is responsible for applying emergency brakes when the vehicle gets too close to another vehicle or object in front of it.
Sometimes, the sensors that this system uses don’t work properly and falsely report that something is in the way of the vehicle when it is actually not.
This was reported by consumers who own a 2019 Volkswagen Atlas. Such an application of the emergency brakes can be jarring or frightening for the driver, so drivers should be aware that it can happen and be wary of it.
2019 VW Brake Problems
Brakes are a crucial element in any vehicle because they allow the driver to slow and stop their vehicle, both of which are necessary for safe operation.
In the case of the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas, consumers reported their vehicle’s brakes randomly engaging (likely because of the forward collision avoidance system) and a warning that the brake boosters were out which was followed by the car aggressively braking.
Any brake problem a vehicle has can be dangerous and should be treated seriously, often with a trip to the mechanic.
2019 VW Atlas Complaints
“ABS and Brake warning light come on dash making the break pedal click, causing the car to break abruptly or lock. Usually happens while at a complete stope or if driving below 30 to 20 miles an hour.”
“High expectations. Low performance and ABSOLUTELY no reliability. Electrical xxx and Cruise issues, multiple dead battery at intersections, had to buy a jump pack so I can get home when the car dies enroute. VW says: ‘we can’t find anything wrong with it’ and ‘we can’t duplicate it’ and ‘the computer doesn’t show any examples for what you claim’. The disappointing thing is, we were intending to import this to Germany to tow a camper around Europe. Doing so would remove any VW warranty. The car definitely needs a warranty! But so far VW isn’t standing by (or even acknowledging any issues)! I think the term ‘Corporate Malfeasance’ comes to mind. Sad. Sad. Sad.”
“Engine shutting off intermittently. Engine has hut off at 10 mph currently. No, “not able to be recreated”. No, but VW is aware of complaints at this time. Please restart engine manually was the only thing displayed.”
Know Your Rights as an Atlas Owner
Consumers who purchase defective vehicles are well-protected by lemon laws, which ensure they can receive a refund or replacement if their vehicle is deemed a lemon.
This status is assigned to vehicles with significant defects impacting their usability, value, or safety, provided these issues are covered by the manufacturer’s warranty at the time of the first repair attempt.
For a vehicle to qualify, it must undergo a reasonable number of unsuccessful repair attempts, which in most states is between two and four, or be out of service for over thirty days due to repairs.
To successfully file a lemon law claim, consumers will be significantly helped by having thorough documentation.
It’s crucial to keep detailed records of all communications with the dealership and repair attempts, as this information supports the claim that their vehicle is a lemon.
If a defect persists despite repeated repair efforts, consumers have the right to request either a refund or a replacement vehicle.
This often triggers negotiations or a lemon lawsuit. Upon a successful claim or negotiation, the consumer receives either a similar new vehicle of the same make and model or a refund.
The refund includes the original purchase price or monthly payments made, along with taxes, interest, and sometimes incidental expenses.
However, the manufacturer will deduct a usage fee that represents the time the vehicle could be driven without problems.
In many states, consumers who successfully bring a lemon lawsuit have their reasonable attorney’s fees covered. This means the lawsuit comes at no personal expense to them.
Connect with Experts Who Specialize in Lemon Law!
Like other forms of law, lemon law is a specific field that attorneys can practice within and learn. If you are planning on bringing a lemon law claim, you should seek out a lemon law attorney who has experience with lemon law cases so that you have the best chance of success.
The Lemon Law Experts are a group of skilled and experienced lemon law attorneys who would love to assist you in bringing your claim.
Since 2009, we have been dedicated to helping consumers like you get the compensation they deserve. Connect with our team of experts by calling (877) 885-5366 or visit us online for a free case evaluation!
