2022 Volkswagen Taos Safety Report

2022 VW Taos: Good crash ratings, but significant engine, fuel system, and brake complaints with multiple recalls for stall risks and suspension issues.

278Complaints
6Recalls
★★★★☆Safety Rating
55/100Reliability Score
4Crash Reports
1Injuries
Most reported components: Engine (53)Service Brakes (31)Unknown Or Other (19)Fuel/Propulsion System (13)Power Train (11)Power Train,Engine (8)Electrical System,Engine (7)Electrical System,Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System (7)Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System (6)Fuel System, Gasoline (6)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2022 Volkswagen Taos

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos presents a mixed safety picture. While it achieved respectable NHTSA safety ratings, including an overall 4-star rating with 5 stars in side crash tests, the vehicle has been subject to a significant number of complaints and recalls. With 278 total complaints, 4 reported crashes, and 1 injury, there are clear areas of concern. The most prominent complaint category is the ENGINE, accounting for 53 complaints, followed by SERVICE BRAKES with 31. This aligns with several recalls related to engine stalling due to fuel pump issues or ECU software, and a recall for a broken rear suspension knuckle which could lead to loss of stability. The high number of complaints, particularly concerning the engine and fuel system, suggests potential reliability issues that could impact safety despite decent crash test performance.

Reliability Score

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos receives a reliability score of 55 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 2022 Volkswagen Taos

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2022 Volkswagen Taos:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Engine Stalling/Loss Of Power
Multiple complaints and recalls (e.g., fuel pump, ECU software) indicate a risk of sudden engine stall, increasing crash risk. Complaints mention coolant leaks, head gasket failures, and limp mode.
High Common variable miles
Fuel System Leaks/Odors
Recalls for fuel supply quick-connector detachment and numerous complaints about strong fuel odors in the cabin and recurring check engine lights related to the EVAP system.
High Common variable miles
Rear Brake Premature Wear
Numerous owners report premature and uneven wear of rear brake pads and rotors, requiring early replacement, sometimes within 14,000-23,500 miles.
Medium Common 14000-23500 miles
Rearview Camera Malfunction
A recall addresses rearview cameras that may not display an image, reducing driver visibility and increasing crash risk. Complaints describe blackouts and flickering.
Medium Occasional variable miles
Suspension Instability/Wobble
A recall for a broken rear suspension knuckle can cause loss of stability. Complaints also describe strong wobbling in the front tire at lower speeds.
High Occasional variable miles
Electrical/Software Glitches
Complaints include dash blackouts, HVAC/remote start errors, infotainment resets, and warning lights for airbags, blind spot, and tire pressure monitoring system.
Medium Occasional variable miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2022 Volkswagen Taos:

Engine 19% of complaints

Frequent reports of engine stalling, loss of power, coolant leaks, and head gasket failures, often leading to check engine lights and requiring significant repairs.

Service Brakes 11% of complaints

Premature wear of rear brake pads and rotors, leading to grinding noises and early replacement, often at low mileage.

Fuel/Propulsion System 5% of complaints

Issues include strong fuel odors in the cabin, fuel leaks, and recurring check engine lights related to the EVAP system, often after recall repairs.

Power Train 4% of complaints

Complaints of lagging acceleration, vehicle sputtering, and entering limp mode, sometimes accompanied by flashing check engine lights.

Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera 1% of complaints

Rearview camera malfunctions, including blackouts and flickering, reducing visibility.

Suspension 1% of complaints

Reports of vehicle instability and wobbling, aligning with a recall for rear suspension knuckle issues.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2022 Volkswagen Taos

Is the 2022 Volkswagen Taos safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2022 Volkswagen Taos received an overall 4-star safety rating, with 5 stars in side crash tests. However, it has 278 total complaints, 4 crashes, and 1 injury reported. There are 6 recalls, many addressing critical issues like engine stalling, fuel leaks, and suspension instability, which could increase crash risk. While crash test performance is good, the high volume of complaints and recalls for safety-critical components raise concerns about its overall reliability and long-term safety.

What are common problems with the 2022 Volkswagen Taos?

The most reported issues for the 2022 Volkswagen Taos are related to the ENGINE (53 complaints), including stalling, coolant leaks, and head gasket failures. SERVICE BRAKES (31 complaints) are also common, specifically premature rear brake wear. Other significant problems include fuel system issues (13 complaints) like leaks and odors, and power train issues (11 complaints) such as lagging acceleration and limp mode.

Are there any recalls for the 2022 Volkswagen Taos?

Yes, the 2022 Volkswagen Taos has 6 recalls. These include issues with the fuel delivery pump potentially causing engine stalls, engine control unit (ECU) software causing stalls, rearview camera malfunctions, a broken rear suspension knuckle, detachment of the underhood fuel supply quick-connector leading to fuel leaks, and a second recall for ECU software causing stalls.

How does the 2022 Volkswagen Taos perform in crash tests?

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos received an overall 4-star safety rating from NHTSA. It scored 4 stars for frontal crash, 5 stars for side crash, and 4 stars for rollover resistance, indicating generally good crash protection.

What should I look out for if buying a used 2022 Volkswagen Taos?

If considering a used 2022 Taos, prioritize checking if all 6 recalls have been addressed. Pay close attention to the engine for any signs of coolant leaks, unusual noises, or check engine lights. Inspect the brakes for premature wear, especially the rear. Also, check for any fuel odors in the cabin and ensure the rearview camera functions correctly. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the numerous recalls and high volume of complaints, particularly for engine and fuel system issues, thoroughly verify all recalls have been completed and consider an extended warranty if purchasing a 2022 Taos.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2022 Volkswagen Taos

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2022 Volkswagen Taos. The data includes 278 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 6 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 4 reported crashes, 1 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2022 Volkswagen Taos an overall safety rating of 4 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.