2021 Volkswagen Atlas: fuel leak

Filed Jan 23, 2026 · Fuel system · FL

On January 16, 2026, the 2021 Atlas had a severe gas leak and a large pool of gas was observed underneath the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the VW dealership in Bradenton, FL. The dealership stated they needed to take the car apart as it was suspected the fuel injectors were leaking. After disassembly, the technician stated the #3 fuel injector had a severe leak and there was so much gas, he couldn't be certain if fuel injectors #1 and #5 may also have issues but recommended replacing all 3 fuel injectors and the fuel rail. The repair cost was $3300, which was not covered by my warranty as it expired 6 months prior. History of issue - shortly after purchasing the vehicle in June 2021, a gasoline smell was noticed when parked in the garage. On October 19, 2021, the vehicle was taken to VW in Bradenton for the gas smell, they could not replicate the issue and replaced the charcoal canister. After the replacement, a gas smell was still noticeable and taken back to VW. VW again said they could not replicate the issue and stated nothing was wrong with the vehicle. It was noticed there was a previous the federal safety agency investigation on this issue. This is a serious issue and the car could have caught on fire. A large amount of gasoline was leaking from this vehicle.

Filed Aug 29, 2024 · Fuel system, Transmission · OR

In May I brought the vehicle to the dealership because the vehicle was turning off at low speeds (exiting a parking lot) or switching from Drive to Reverse. This was in conjunction with the check engine light coming on. The dealership diagnosed it as a fuel sensor failure, which they told me was safe to drive, and they'd order the part. I went back the next week when the sensor had been received and the repair was made. Last week, the low fuel alert flashed when I knew the vehicle was not low on fuel. The alert was not stable for a few days (it turned on and then turned back off, and then on again), and the vehicle started to have the same issue of stopping at low speeds. I had it towed to the dealership because I was too worried to drive it. The dealership diagnosed it with a 'swollen and leaky gas tank'. They sent photos upon request and the gas tank appears to have a tear. It is not due to any accident or road debris. The VW dealership has recommended a complete gas tank replacement, and let me know the gas tanks are on back order and did not have a date it would be available. This is extremely dangerous situation because 1. it was leaking gas and 2. it was coming to a stop. I drive around children (my own and others) and I can't imagine if something had happened while I was in driving around a car of kids. I read on different sites (Reddit and other car sites) and it seems the stopping problem with the Atlas is somewhat common, unfortunately. I am curious if it's due to a bad gas tank or if it is a separate malfunction with the vehicle. I called the Volkswagen Care Line and was told that they were sorry, but my vehicle was no longer under warranty, so they were unable to give me any information or guidance.

Filed Jul 25, 2024 · Fuel system · FL

Object, too small to be seen or causing sound on impact while driving on HWY, ruptured the gas tank, making it loose gas / heavily dripping gas. No warning on car computer. I did not notice the leak until arriving at my destination and I don’t really want to think about what could have happened. Gas dripping could have caused car go up in flames, causing severe damage to passengers, other vehicles, other people. Car was inspected at VW dealership, gas tank needed complete replacement. Same dealership advised same day another VW came into the dealership with exact same issue. VW states no warranty. I’m seriously wondering if VW gas tanks are made of such weak material / are insufficiently protected to cause such a huge safety concern.

Filed Sep 27, 2021 · Fuel system · CO

After starting the car, saw a start-stop assist error, but car seemed to start up normally. The car was slow to accelerate. Then a strong smell of gasoline followed by the EPC and check engine light. Pulled the car over and turned it off. Very strong smell of gasoline. Then noticed the gasoline leaking under the car. My safety was definitely put at risk as fuel leaks around ignition sources can cause fires. Luckily this time I was alone in the car. Had the vehicle towed to the dealership. Was told the issue was the fuel injector and happened at the factory. Manufacturer is aware of the issue. Dealership has replaced the fuel injector.

Filed Sep 27, 2021 · Fuel system · CO

This is the second time I've had the same issue with the fuel injectors. This time I was driving with my two children in the car when I started the car the start-stop assist error came on again and I smelled gasoline. The EPC and check engine lights then came on. I immediately pulled over and got the kids out of the car and away from the car as the gasoline smell was very strong. I checked under the car and it was again leaking gasoline. This is obviously a very big safety risk. There is a large risk of fire from the fuel leaking around an ignition source as well as the fumes and headaches me and my children suffered due to the gasoline fume exposure in an enclosed space. I again called a tow truck and they towed it to the dealership. I called and they said it was indeed the fuel injectors again and they will do a more thorough check this time. I will elevate the issue with VW.