2018 Volkswagen Atlas Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The electrical system is the most frequent complaint area, with owners reporting battery drain and stalling issues that can occur without warning.
- The automatic emergency braking (AEB) system has a documented tendency to activate unexpectedly, posing a safety risk and potential for accidents.
- Numerous recalls, including critical ones for the fuel system and airbags, necessitate verification of completed repairs.
- While safety ratings are high (5-star overall), the frequency and severity of complaints suggest potential long-term ownership risks and potential repair costs.
2018 Volkswagen Atlas
The 2018 Volkswagen Atlas presents a mixed bag for used-car shoppers. While it boasts a strong overall safety rating of 5 stars from the NHTSA, its reliability record is a significant concern, earning a 'Below Average' verdict. Potential buyers should be aware of a high number of complaints and recalls, with particular attention needed for the electrical system, airbags, and service brakes. The 3.6L V6 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission offers adequate power, achieving a combined EPA fuel economy of 20 MPG, but the underlying reliability issues may lead to unexpected repair costs. With 18 recalls and 634 complaints logged, thorough pre-purchase inspection is paramount.
Critical Failure Risk
Frequent issues include battery drain, start/stop system malfunctions, and intermittent power loss.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$3,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
Watch-outs include high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Savvy used-car shoppers who prioritize space and safety ratings and are willing to undertake rigorous pre-purchase inspections.
+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience or those who cannot afford unexpected repair bills.
+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2018 Volkswagen Atlas Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 7
- Transmission
- Automatic (S8)
- Drivetrain
- AWD/All-Wheel Drive
- EPA Combined MPG
- 20
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Most Common Issues
1. Electrical System
Most reportedUsage: 107 reports
2. Airbags
Usage: 97 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (Synthetic 5W-40 or 5W-30) (Parts: Synthetic Engine Oil (5W-40 or 5W-30), Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks - Multi-point Inspection
Est. shop cost: $150 - $250
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FAQ
Is the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas is 4.1/10. Reliability score is 4.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 18. Owner complaints: 634.
How practical is the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas for daily use?
Practicality score is 6.1/10. Watch-outs include high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 20 MPG. Seating capacity is 7. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 583 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas is 5.9/10. Overall score is 5.9/10 (Mixed). Confidence 82%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 6.1/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Volkswagen Atlas?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Synthetic 5W-40 or 5W-30) (Parts: Synthetic Engine Oil (5W-40 or 5W-30), Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks - Multi-point Inspection at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $600 - $900. Repair prediction highlight: Electrical System (typical at 30,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $200 • Max: $1500).
What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas?
Base MSRP is $37,040.
What engine is in the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas?
Engine specs list FSI • 6 • 3.6.
What transmission does the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas, transmission is Automatic (S8). The paired drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas?
EPA combined estimate is 20 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas?
7 standard and 7 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2018 Volkswagen Atlas?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas, seating capacity is 7.
What drivetrain does the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas, drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S8).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2018 Volkswagen Atlas is a three-row SUV designed for families, prioritizing space and comfort over performance.
What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas?
Top complaint category: electrical system (107 reports, 16.9% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Volkswagen Atlas?
This model year has 18 official safety campaigns listed.