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Volkswagen Atlas Reliability Grade

COverall

Below-average reliability

EngineC-
TransmissionB

Grade a specific Volkswagen Atlas

Reliability changes from year to year. Pick a model year to see its grade, then add mileage and price to get a deal score and estimated miles remaining.

The Volkswagen Atlas earns a C overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with a C- for its engine and a B for its transmission. It ranks 15th of 23 midsize SUVs we grade. The engine (C-) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for oil-change records and have a mechanic check for leaks and oil consumption. Grades are based on 1,765 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2018-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.

Volkswagen Atlas reliability by year

Overall grade for each model year, from owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Tap a year to see its full grade.

2018C-2019D2020A2021D2022C+2023C-2024F

Best years: 2020

Years to avoid: 2019 (stalling / loss of power) and 2021 (stalling / loss of power)

Faded years are recent, so fewer complaints have come in. Their grades may change.

How long does the Volkswagen Atlas last?

150,000Estimated lifespan (miles)

A rough estimate for the model across all years, not measured for each model year.

Known Volkswagen Atlas problems

We track 2 known problem areas for the Volkswagen Atlas, including which model years they affect. They're in the full report, along with miles remaining and a deal score for the car you're looking at.

See Atlas problems

Volkswagen Atlas vs. other midsize SUVs

ModelEngineTrans.Overall
Nissan Murano A A A
Toyota 4Runner A A A
Buick Enclave A- B+ A-
Toyota Highlander A- B- B+
Mazda CX-9 B- B+ B+
Subaru Outback B+ B B
Chevrolet Traverse B C+ B-
GMC Acadia B C B-
Dodge Journey B- B- B-
Honda Pilot C C+ C+
Nissan Pathfinder B- C C+
Subaru Ascent B C- C+
Chevrolet Blazer C+ C- C+
Dodge Durango B- C+ C+
Jeep Grand Cherokee C C- C
Volkswagen Atlas C- B C
Ford Explorer C+ C C-
Honda Passport C C C-
Hyundai Santa Fe D C- D
Kia Sorento D C- D
Ford Edge C D D
Hyundai Palisade D D F
Kia Telluride D D F

Most reliable midsize SUVs →

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Volkswagen Atlas reliability FAQ

Is the Volkswagen Atlas reliable?

Below-average reliability. The Volkswagen Atlas earns a C overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with a C- for its engine and a B for its transmission. It ranks 15th of 23 midsize SUVs we grade. The engine (C-) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for oil-change records and have a mechanic check for leaks and oil consumption. Grades are based on 1,765 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2018-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.

How many miles will a Volkswagen Atlas last?

We estimate a well-maintained Volkswagen Atlas lasts around 150,000 miles. That's a rough figure for the model across all years, not measured for each model year, so check the grade for the year you're looking at.

What are the best years for the Volkswagen Atlas?

Based on NHTSA owner complaints, the most reliable Volkswagen Atlas model years are 2020.

What Volkswagen Atlas years should I avoid?

Based on NHTSA owner complaints, the Volkswagen Atlas years to be most careful with are 2019 and 2021. The 2019 grades a D overall (engine C-, transmission C), and its top engine/transmission problem is stalling / loss of power, which a recall covers. The 2021 grades a D overall (engine D, transmission C+), and its top engine/transmission problem is stalling / loss of power, which a recall covers.

Is the Volkswagen Atlas transmission reliable?

GradeMyCar grades the Volkswagen Atlas transmission a B (above-average reliability). Reliability varies by model year, so grade the specific year you're looking at.

Is the Volkswagen Atlas engine reliable?

GradeMyCar grades the Volkswagen Atlas engine a C- (below-average reliability).