2023 Volkswagen Arteon Safety Report

The 2023 Volkswagen Arteon presents a mixed safety picture, primarily due to a significant pattern of tire failures despite a low overall complaint count. With only 12 total complaints to NHTSA, the vehicle has not been involved in any reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths. However, 11 of these 12 complaints (91.7%) are specifically related to TIRES, with one additional complaint for WHEELS, indicating a critical issue with the original equipment tires. Owners frequently report sidewall blowouts, tread separation, and bulges, often after encountering minor road imperfections or at low speeds, with some failures occurring at very low mileage (e.g., 265 miles, 2500 miles, 17k miles). This suggests a potential defect or severe incompatibility with the Continental ProContact TX 245/35 R 20 95H tires. In terms of recalls, the 2023 Arteon has one active recall (NHTSA ID: 23V-653) concerning the 'BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE'. This recall addresses a potential error in the camera control unit that could prevent the rearview camera from displaying an image at vehicle startup, thereby increasing the risk of a crash. This is a significant safety concern, though it is being addressed by Volkswagen. NHTSA crash test ratings for the 2023 Arteon are currently unavailable (N/A) for Overall, Frontal, Side, and Rollover categories. This lack of independent crash test data makes it difficult to assess the vehicle's structural integrity and occupant protection performance in a collision. The primary safety concern, based on available data, revolves around the documented tire issues and the rearview camera recall, rather than crashworthiness.

Our recommendation: Prospective buyers of a 2023 Volkswagen Arteon should be aware of the prevalent OEM tire issues and budget for potential early replacement with a more robust tire model; ensure the rearview camera recall has been addressed before purchase.