2019 Volkswagen Arteon Safety Report

The 2019 Volkswagen Arteon presents a relatively limited safety data set due to its low complaint volume. With only 7 total NHTSA complaints, 0 crashes, 0 fires, 0 injuries, and 0 deaths reported, the vehicle appears to have a low incidence of severe safety-related issues. However, the lack of NHTSA overall, frontal, side, and rollover safety ratings means its crashworthiness performance is not officially assessed by the agency. The most frequently reported complaint component is TIRES, with 2 complaints, followed by single complaints for ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, AIR BAGS, VISIBILITY, BACK OVER PREVENTION, SERVICE BRAKES, and UNKNOWN OR OTHER. This distribution suggests no single overwhelming pattern of failure, but rather a scattering of issues. One significant safety concern is highlighted by the single recall issued for the 2019 Arteon, specifically concerning the 'SERVICE BRAKES'. This recall addresses a potentially incorrectly installed electronic brake booster pressure input rod, which could lead to increased actuating force or a disconnected input rod, thereby affecting braking and increasing the risk of a crash. This recall directly correlates with one of the 7 complaints, which also mentions 'SERVICE BRAKES' and warped rotors causing heavy vibration during braking. Other complaints include issues with the Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) affecting airbag function, tire failures (shaking, blowouts), sunroof shattering, and intermittent rearview camera malfunction. Despite the low complaint count, the recall for the service brakes is a critical safety item that owners should ensure has been addressed. The reported tire issues, including a blowout at 70 mph and repeated vibrations, also warrant attention. The absence of official crash test ratings makes it difficult to fully assess the vehicle's passive safety performance. Overall, while the complaint volume is low, the identified recall and specific complaints about braking, airbags, and tires indicate areas where potential safety risks exist, requiring owners to be vigilant and ensure all recall remedies are performed.

Our recommendation: Given the low complaint volume and a critical brake recall, ensure all recall remedies have been performed and consider a pre-purchase inspection focusing on brakes and tires, especially since official crash test ratings are unavailable.