VW Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport SUVs Recalled for Airbag Issue

Apr 02, 2024

Faulty wiring may also cause other electrical problems, such as unexpected braking and windows that roll down by themselves

Volkswagen is recalling nearly 223,000 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport SUVs because their front side airbags may deploy later than they’re supposed to during a crash, which could injure vehicle occupants.

In addition to the airbag problem, the vehicle’s electronic parking brake may suddenly engage at speeds below 1.8 mph, and its windows may roll down by themselves.

The problem is due to corrosion in the vehicle’s wiring. VW does not yet have a solution but will alert owners as soon as a fix is available.

On vehicles that have this problem, owners may notice that the airbag warning light is illuminated or see a warning on the dashboard about a faulty door sensor.

Vehicles recalled: 2019-2023 Volkswagen Atlas SUVs and 2020-2023 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SUVs

The problem: Corrosion in the wiring harness that goes from the vehicle’s windshield pillar to its front door may cause a sporadic interruption of electrical connections within the vehicle. During certain side impacts, this may cause delayed deployment of the side airbags.

The fix: VW does not yet have a fix for this problem.

How to contact the manufacturer: VW will notify owners by mail twice: first, on May 10, 2022, to let them know if their vehicles are included in the recall, and again as soon as a fix is developed to let them know when they can take their SUVs in for a free repair. Owners may also contact VW directly at 800-893-5298.

NHTSA campaign number: 22V152. VW’s own number for this recall is 97GF.

Check to see whether your vehicle has an open recall: NHTSA’s website will tell you whether your vehicle has any recalls that need to be addressed.

If you plug your car’s 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) into NHTSA’s website and a recall doesn’t appear, it means your vehicle doesn’t currently have one. Because automakers issue recalls often, and for many older vehicles, we recommend checking back regularly.

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Keith Barry

Keith Barry has been an auto reporter at Consumer Reports since 2018. He focuses on safety, technology, and the environmental impact of cars. Previously, he led home and appliance coverage at Reviewed; reported on cars for USA Today, Wired, and Car & Driver; and wrote for other publications as well. Keith earned a master’s degree in public health from Tufts University. Follow him on Twitter @itskeithbarry.