VW Atlas Brake Problems: Is There a Lawsuit?

There have been numerous reports of brake issues with the Volkswagen Atlas, and an investigation is currently underway.

Drivers of the VW Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport have frequently complained about loud grinding, squeaking, and gurgling noises from the brakes, along with inconsistent braking performance.

Some have even reported that their brakes feel as though they are slipping or engaging too harshly.

Attorneys from ClassAction.org are exploring whether these brake problems are indicative of a defect and if a class action lawsuit could be pursued on behalf of affected owners and lessees.

The objective of such a lawsuit would be to secure compensation for damages, including repair costs and diminished vehicle value, and to potentially compel Volkswagen to implement a free repair solution.

If you own or lease a 2021-2024 VW Atlas or Atlas Cross Sport and are experiencing brake issues, it may be beneficial to stay updated.

What’s the Issue with the VW Atlas Brakes?

The Volkswagen Atlas has been reported to have several brake-related problems, particularly involving grinding and squeaking noises.

One common complaint among VW Atlas owners is a loud grinding noise when applying the brakes. This sound often results from the brake pads wearing down to the point where the metal backing plate contacts the rotor.

If the brake pads are not replaced in a timely manner, it can lead to more significant damage to the braking system.

Some drivers have observed that the grinding noise is more noticeable when the vehicle is first started after being parked for an extended period.

Another prevalent issue is the brakes squeaking when the vehicle is in reverse. This noise is frequently attributed to the brake pad compound used by Volkswagen.

The squeaking can become more pronounced when the brakes are cold or when there is moisture on the brake components. In some cases, the noise may be caused by the edges of the brake pads catching on the worn lip of the rotors.

Many consumers note diminished braking performance, which can be extremely dangerous for consumers and others on the road.

If you are experiencing these brake issues with your VW Atlas, it may be beneficial to consult with your dealer or a trusted mechanic to explore potential fixes.

Which VW Atlas Vehicles Have Brake Issues?

Brake problems with the Volkswagen Atlas have been reported across several model years. The first model year, 2018, has seen numerous complaints about brake issues, including grinding and squeaking noises. As the inaugural model year for the VW Atlas, these problems have been significant.

For the model years 2019 through 2023, brake-related issues have continued to be a concern. In particular, the 2021 VW Atlas model has garnered a substantial number of complaints about brake grinding and squeaking.

Volkswagen reported that customers had been complaining about these wiring harness issues since 2020.

On April 7, 2022, a class action lawsuit was filed concerning brake and wiring harness issues with the 2019-2023 Volkswagen Atlas and the 2020-2023 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport.

The lawsuit alleges that these vehicles can experience sudden braking and airbag deployment failures.

The plaintiff leased a new VW Atlas in February 2021 and faced problems with the wiring harness, including issues with the parking brake engaging while driving and warning messages appearing.

Is there a VW Atlas Recall?

Yes, there is a recall for the Volkswagen Atlas targeting a limited number of vehicles. This recall addresses a wiring issue that can potentially impact braking performance.

The problem involves the wire harness, which may cause electrical connection failures, leading to issues such as inadvertent braking or airbag malfunctions.

In addition to the recall, there are Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to the VW Atlas. TSBs are issued by the manufacturer to provide dealerships with guidance on resolving specific issues.

For the VW Atlas, several TSBs have been released concerning brake noise, including grinding and squeaking.

These bulletins often recommend measures such as replacing brake pads or rotors or applying special lubricants to mitigate noise.

One notable TSB issued in 2023 addresses brake problems for VW Atlas vehicles from 2020 to 2024. This bulletin instructs dealerships to inspect and machine the brake rotors to resolve issues such as brake vibration, pulsation, and steering wheel shaking.

If you own a VW Atlas and are experiencing brake problems, it may be beneficial to consult with your dealer to determine if any TSBs apply to your vehicle.

Are Brake Issues Covered Under Warranty?

Yes, brake issues with the VW Atlas can be covered under warranty, particularly if they involve defects or premature wear.

Dealers can submit warranty claims for brake problems if they meet specific criteria outlined in Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs).

• Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: For VW Atlas models from 2020 onward, the bumper-to-bumper warranty covers the vehicle for 4 years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. This comprehensive warranty includes coverage for various components, including brakes, batteries, and other mechanical parts.
• Brake Pads and Rotors: Typically, the repair or replacement of brake pads and rotors due to normal wear and tear is covered for up to one year or 12,000 miles. However, if the brake pads or rotors fail due to a manufacturing defect, they may be covered for a longer duration under the bumper-to-bumper warranty.

TSBs provide dealers with detailed instructions on addressing specific brake issues. These bulletins often suggest replacing brake pads or rotors and applying certain lubricants to minimize noise. If your brake issues are related to a TSB, the repairs can be covered under warranty.

If you are experiencing brake problems with your VW Atlas, we highly recommend contacting your dealer. They can determine whether your vehicle qualifies for warranty coverage or if any relevant TSBs apply.

How the Lemon Law Can Help with VW Atlas Brake Issues

If your Volkswagen has had repeated braking issues, you may be eligible for cash compensation or a refund under your state’s Lemon Law.

This law is designed to protect consumers who purchase or lease new vehicles that fail to meet quality and performance standards.

If your vehicle has been in the shop multiple times for the same issue, such as brake problems, you might qualify for relief under this law.

Affected Vehicle	Average Lemon Law Settlement
Volkswagen Atlas	$79,861
Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport	$75,368

*Please note, the figures presented in the chart are approximations based on results from previous cases and should not be interpreted as a prediction or guarantee. Each case is unique and requires personalized legal guidance.

To proceed, first document all brake-related issues by keeping detailed records, including dates, descriptions, and repair attempts. Report these issues to your dealer and allow them the opportunity to address the problem.

If the issues persist, you should then consult a lemon law attorney to understand your rights and receive guidance throughout the process.

Get in Touch with a Lemon Law Expert Now!

If you’re struggling with ongoing brake issues in your Volkswagen Atlas that have not been resolved by the manufacturer, you might be eligible to file a lemon law claim.

This legal option can offer solutions such as a vehicle replacement, a refund, or a cash settlement tailored to address significant defects or manufacturing errors that affect your vehicle’s usability, value, or safety.

At the Lemon Law Experts, we are dedicated to assisting clients with lemon law cases throughout California.

With a proven history of securing substantial compensation for our clients since 2009, our team is equipped to guide you through every step of the legal process. We focus on building strong cases and advocating for your rights.

If you believe your Volkswagen Atlas may qualify as a lemon, our firm is ready to help. We provide a free consultation to evaluate your situation and offer personalized advice.

During this review, our team will thoroughly examine your case, determine the strength of your claim, and discuss the best course of action.

Contact Lemon Law Experts today for a no-obligation consultation and take the first step toward addressing your Volkswagen Atlas brake issues through a lemon law claim.