2021 Volkswagen Atlas: engine overheating

Filed Aug 28, 2026 · WA

The hood release cable on my 2021 Volkswagen Atlas failed during normal use, making it impossible to open the hood or access the engine compartment. I took the vehicle to an authorized Volkswagen dealership, where the cable was replaced. The Volkswagen service advisor told me this is a common issue on 2021–2023 Atlas models. Volkswagen of America subsequently denied my request for reimbursement based on the vehicle’s age and mileage. I am reporting this because failure of the hood release mechanism creates a safety concern. When the cable fails, the owner cannot access the battery, coolant, oil or engine compartment. In an emergency involving overheating, smoke, a dead battery, fluid loss or another mechanical problem, there is no way for the driver to access the engine compartment. There was no warning before the cable failed. Other 2021 Atlas owners have reported similar hood release cable failures to the federal safety agency, including complaints #11743559, #11735490 and #11755775. Volkswagen has also previously issued manufacturer communications concerning an inoperative hood release/cable disconnection on the 2021 Atlas. Given these similar reports and my Volkswagen dealer’s statement that this is a common problem on 2021–2023 Atlas models, I am concerned this is a recurring component defect rather than normal wear and tear. I am requesting that the federal safety agency evaluate whether this issue warrants further investigation or a safety recall. Total paid: $301.73. Invoice available but I am unable to upload it to this form.

Filed May 26, 2026 · Lights · MA

The DRLs went out at the same time. It's still not working so it's available for inspection. DRLs are obviously safety-relevant. No warning, no messages. Checking fault codes shows "module overheating".

Filed Mar 26, 2026 · Engine · WA

My vehicle has been taken in for the ac 3x now as well as the start stop feature stalling and not working twice. This most recent service repair is for a coolant leake and ac issue resulting in a head gasket needing to be replaced

Filed Jul 10, 2025 · Engine · TX

coolant leaks and potential engine overheating. replaced water pump 6 months ago and have to replace again

Filed Mar 31, 2025 · Airbags · TX

The airbag error light has come on my car multiple times since I have bought it new in 2021 at VW dealership. I have brought it many times to VW service center. Last week I had a coolant leak which they did repair, I paid $1400 for it already. But at the same time, I was told there is a recall on my vehicle. I told advisor that I thought it was taken care of already but was told it is not. So they worked on the recall. But THE NEX DAY, the airbag light came on again. I am worried for the safety of my family in this car. I was quoted $872.72 to have this fixed. This airbag error directly resulted after the recall work was performed on it. not 24 hours after I picked up the car, the light came on again. I spoke to manager Ryan and was told the price can be decreased to $400. I am apaled that I need to pay for this and to have the airbag light come on yet again. please see my transcript to VW and some of the service repairs done on this vehicle in regards to the "airbag error" I have a family and am worried for our safety in this car Please review