2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Safety Report
2021 VW Atlas Cross Sport: Strong crash ratings, but plagued by numerous recalls and diverse owner complaints including stalling and airbag issues.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
Reliability Score
The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daytime Running Light (Drl) Failure DRLs frequently fail, requiring expensive full headlight assembly replacement instead of just a bulb, impacting visibility and inspection eligibility. |
Medium | Common | 40000-50000 miles |
| Engine Stalling/Loss Of Acceleration Vehicle unexpectedly stalls at low speeds or loses acceleration while driving, posing a significant crash risk, as reported in multiple complaints. |
High | Occasional | 30000-60000 miles |
| Brake Squeaking/Noise Loud squeaking or metal-on-metal noise from brakes, often attributed to manufacturer-installed components, despite no recall. |
Medium | Common | 30000-50000 miles |
| Passenger Occupant Detection System (Pods) Fault Recall issued for a fault in the PODS system that may deactivate the passenger airbag, increasing injury risk in a crash. |
High | Common | N/A miles |
| Coolant Leaks/Water Pump Failure Reports of excessive coolant consumption and need for water pump replacement, indicating potential engine cooling system issues. |
High | Occasional | 50000-60000 miles |
| Air Conditioning Drain Tube Blockage Recall for blocked AC drain tube leading to water leaks that can damage the airbag control module, causing inadvertent airbag deployment. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport:
Frequent complaints and recalls related to airbag systems, including sensor faults and potential delayed deployment, with 25 complaints.
Reports of loud squeaking, grinding, and general brake issues, with 12 complaints.
Complaints about engine stalling, loss of power, and coolant leaks, with 8 complaints specifically for ENGINE and 5 for UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE.
Issues including DRL failures, electrical system faults, and wiring problems, with 8 complaints specifically for ELECTRICAL SYSTEM.
Predominantly related to the failure of daytime running lights, with 7 complaints.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
Is the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport received excellent crash test ratings, including a 5-star overall rating. However, it has 146 owner complaints, 9 crashes, 1 fire, and 7 injuries reported, alongside 14 recalls addressing significant safety concerns like airbag malfunctions, fuel leaks, and potential loss of control due to wheel bearing issues. While crash protection is strong, the high number of recalls and complaints suggest potential reliability and component safety issues.
What are common problems with the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport?
The most reported issues for the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport include AIR BAGS (25 complaints), SERVICE BRAKES (12 complaints), ENGINE (8 complaints), and ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (8 complaints). Specific common problems highlighted in complaints are daytime running light failures, engine stalling or loss of acceleration, and loud brake noises. There are also recalls for issues like faulty passenger occupant detection systems and potential fuel injector leaks.
How many recalls does the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport have?
The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport has been subject to 14 recalls. These recalls address a wide range of critical components, including airbags, tires, rearview cameras, fuel systems, and wheel assembly.
Are there any fire risks with the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport?
Yes, there is a reported fire incident among the 146 complaints. Additionally, a recall (NHTSA ID: 21V946000) specifically addresses a fuel system issue where long fuel injectors may have been assembled without filters, potentially leading to fuel leaks and increasing the risk of a fire.
What are the NHTSA crash test ratings for the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport?
The 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport received an Overall 5-star safety rating from NHTSA. It scored 4 stars for Frontal crash, 5 stars for Side crash, and 4 stars for Rollover resistance.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the 2021 Atlas Cross Sport's extensive recall history and numerous owner complaints, particularly regarding airbags, engine stalling, and DRL failures. Thoroughly check if all 14 recalls have been addressed and consider an extended warranty for peace of mind.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport. The data includes 146 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 14 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 9 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, 7 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.