Volkswagen owners expect German-engineered reliability, but many 2022–2025 VW models have been plagued by defects and recurring problems. From electrical glitches to engine troubles, these issues have prompted safety recalls, class-action lawsuits, and claims of unreliability. In this report, we’ll break down common Volkswagen problems across all models sold in the U.S. since 2022. The tone is conversational and consumer-friendly – we want California VW owners in Fresno, San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego, Sacramento and beyond to understand what might be going wrong with their cars. If your Volkswagen has been repeatedly in the shop for the same issue, it might qualify as a “lemon.” Read on to learn about the defects affecting Volkswagens and how our Volkswagen lemon law attorneys can help.

Common Issues Across Recent Volkswagen Models

Volkswagen’s lineup from 2022 to now includes sedans like the Jetta and Passat, sporty hatchbacks like the Golf GTI, SUVs such as the Tiguan, Atlas, Taos, and the all-electric ID.4. Owners across California have reported a variety of problems in these vehicles. Not one particular defect outweighs another – multiple different issues have arisen, and it’s important to cover all models and problem types equally. Below we summarize the key defects, recalls, and reliability complaints for each Volkswagen model:

Volkswagen Jetta and Passat (Sedans)

• Rearview Camera Failures: Many 2021–2022 VW sedans were subject to a recall because the backup camera could stop displaying an image. This defect, caused by a memory module error, meant drivers might suddenly lose their rear visibility when reversing – a clear safety hazard. Software updates were issued to fix the glitch.

• Fuel System Defects: A major fuel leak risk led to a recall impacting certain VW Jetta models. In affected cars, a faulty pump seal could allow fuel to leak into emissions components and even drip out, creating a fire danger​. Volkswagen notified owners and dealers offered to replace the defective fuel pump parts for free.

• Airbag Recalls (Passat): Volkswagen’s use of Takata airbags caught up with the Passat in recent years. In 2024, VW recalled over 110,000 vehicles (including 2012–2014 Passat sedans) because the driver’s airbag inflator could explode and send metal fragments into the cabin​. While this affects older Passats, it’s a serious safety recall that current owners should be aware of. (The Passat was discontinued after 2022, but recent recalls still cover many on the road.)

• General Reliability: Aside from the above recalls, the Jetta sedan hasn’t seen widespread unique issues in 2022–2025 – it’s a relatively mature model. However, owners should stay alert for any check-engine lights, stalling, or other persistent problems and get them documented. Even a reliable car like a Jetta can be a lemon if it suffers repeat defects that VW can’t fix after several attempts.

Volkswagen Golf GTI/Golf R and Arteon (Hatchbacks & Sport Sedans)

• Infotainment & Backup Camera Glitches: Volkswagen’s sportier cars have also experienced tech gremlins. A recall was issued when the 2022–2024 Golf GTI and Golf R had issues where the rearview camera image could be delayed or not appear at all​. This was due to software faults in the infotainment system. Dealers had to update software to ensure the backup camera reliably shows what’s behind you, as required by law. The VW Arteon (a premium sedan) was similarly included in recalls for rear camera failures, meaning it shared some of the same electronic defects.

• Fuel Leaks in Older Golfs: In 2024, Volkswagen acknowledged a long-standing fuel tank defect affecting many earlier Golfs (and some Jettas). The fuel suction pump inside the tank could malfunction, causing fuel to leak into the emissions canister and potentially drip out of the vehicle. This recall covered 2015–2020 Golf and GTI models, which were still on the road and now posing a fire risk if fuel seeped out near an ignition source. VW’s remedy was to replace the faulty pump seals free of charge.

• Other Notable Problems: The latest Golf GTI/​R models (redesigned around 2022) introduced a new touchscreen-based interior that some owners found buggy. There were reports of the infotainment system freezing or touch controls not responding, which Volkswagen has tried to address via software updates. While not all drivers experienced this, it’s an example of electrical/software issues that can sour the ownership of these performance hatchbacks. If your Golf or Arteon suffers repeated electronic malfunctions or any mechanical defect that the dealer can’t seem to fix, it might be time to discuss a VW lemon law claim.

Volkswagen Tiguan (Compact SUV)

The Tiguan is a popular compact SUV in California, but 2022–2023 models have been troublesome in several areas:

• Excessive Oil Consumption: A recent class-action lawsuit alleges that the 2022–2023 Tiguan’s 2.0L turbo engine (VW’s EA888 TSI) has a serious defect that makes it burn through oil far too quickly​. Owners report needing to add quarts of oil between scheduled changes, and if they don’t, the engine can suffer damage or even fail suddenly while driving​. VW was allegedly aware of this oil consumption problem for years but did not warn buyers​. An engine that runs low on oil and seizes is not only a reliability nightmare but a safety hazard if it stalls on the highway.

• Rearview Camera & Electronics Issues: Like other VW models, the Tiguan had multiple recalls to fix backup camera failures. One 2022 recall covered Tiguans whose infotainment memory chip could corrupt the rear camera feed, leaving drivers with a blank screen when backing up. And in 2025, another recall addressed a software error that could prevent the camera image from showing at startup. These issues required software patches. Electrical gremlins have also led some Tiguan drivers to see random warning lights or experience an occasional frozen touchscreen – all frustrating problems in a nearly new SUV.

• Suspension and Brake Defects: Volkswagen issued a safety recall in 2022 because on certain Tiguans, the rear suspension knuckles (the pieces that hold the wheels) could corrode and crack prematurely​. A broken suspension component can cause a loss of control, so VW had to inspect and replace parts on affected SUVs. Additionally, a batch of 2022 Tiguans left the factory with a loose brake line nut, which could lead to brake fluid leaking out​. This defect, covered under a late-2021 recall, would weaken the vehicle’s braking ability if fluid leaked. VW dealers were instructed to tighten or repair the brake line connection to ensure safe braking.

• Body Hardware Issues: Even the Tiguan’s exterior was not trouble-free – an April 2022 recall found that an improperly attached rear hatch spoiler (the small wing on the tailgate) could fly off while driving. While not as dangerous as engine or brake failures, a flying piece of car trim at highway speeds certainly poses a hazard to other motorists. Volkswagen had to replace the spoilers with properly installed ones on the affected SUVs.

• Owner Experiences: With issues ranging from engines to electronics, it’s no surprise some Tiguan owners feel their SUV is unreliable. If you bought a new Tiguan in California and you’re constantly seeing the check-engine light for oil issues, or returning to the dealership for software updates and recalls, you’re not alone. Document each repair attempt. Should these problems persist, you may have recourse under the Volkswagen lemon law to get a replacement vehicle or a refund for your troubled Tiguan.

Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport (Midsize SUVs​

The family-sized Atlas SUV – a common sight in Fresno and Los Angeles driveways – has had significant defects come to light since 2022, leading to large recalls and even legal action:

• Passenger Airbag Sensor Failure: In mid-2024, VW recalled over 270,000 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport SUVs (model years 2021–2024) because the occupant detection system in the front passenger seat can malfunction​. This defect causes the airbag to shut off even when an adult is sitting in the passenger seat, meaning the airbag wouldn’t deploy in a crash​. A deactivated passenger airbag puts that person at risk of serious injury in an accident. Volkswagen had to replace faulty sensor mats and wiring to fix the issue. Owners of these Atlases may have noticed an “Airbag Off” light even with someone in the seat – a clear sign of the problem.

• Engine Cover Fire Risk: In early 2025, a new recall hit the Atlas. VW found that on 2024–2025 Atlas and Cross Sport models, the decorative engine cover on top of the motor wasn’t secured properly​. A loose engine cover can shake loose, fall onto hot engine parts like the exhaust, and melt or catch fire​. Over 170,000 vehicles were affected. VW’s solution? Until a better fix is devised, dealers are simply removing the engine cover to eliminate the fire risk. While somewhat alarming (no one expects parts to just be removed on a brand-new car), it’s critical to prevent engine fires.

• Brake System Problems: A group of Atlas owners filed a class-action lawsuit in late 2024 claiming that Volkswagen sold 2021–2024 Atlas SUVs with defective braking systems​. Drivers reported extremely loud noises when braking and brakes that behaved unpredictably (grabbing or pulsating). The lawsuit argues these brake defects are a safety hazard and that VW knew about the problem but continued to sell the cars​. No driver wants to feel unsure about their brakes, especially in a big family SUV. If your Atlas’s brakes have been screeching or acting up and the dealer keeps saying “no problem found,” it might not be an isolated case – it could be a known defect.

• Fuel System & Other Issues: Another class action in 2024 (against both VW and Audi) claimed that certain Atlas models might contain faulty suction pumps in the fuel tank (the same issue noted in some Taos and Audi vehicles) that create a fire hazard​. While that lawsuit focused mostly on other models, it highlights Volkswagen’s broader quality control issues. Additionally, some Atlas owners have complained of water leaks from the Atlas’s large sunroof, and various electrical gremlins (e.g. error messages or backup camera glitches similar to the Tiguan). Volkswagen has issued a handful of technical service bulletins for the Atlas to address things like wiring harness issues and software updates.

• Living with an Atlas Lemon: The Atlas is VW’s flagship SUV, so owners understandably feel frustrated when these expensive vehicles develop dangerous flaws. If you’ve been back to the dealership multiple times to address airbag warnings, burning smells from the engine bay, brake noises, or other defects in your Atlas, keep all your repair records. California’s lemon law may help you get out of that unsafe vehicle. Our Volkswagen lemon law lawyers have experience with Atlas defects and can assist you in pursuing a buyback or replacement.

Volkswagen Taos (Subcompact SUV)

The Taos is Volkswagen’s smaller SUV introduced in 2021, aimed at budget-conscious buyers wanting VW style in a compact package. However, 2022 Taos owners have reported numerous problems that raise reliability concerns:

• Engine Stalling and Power Loss: Perhaps the most alarming issue with the Taos has been sudden stalling or loss of power in brand-new vehicles. Owners have filed over a hundred complaints about the Taos’s engine and fuel system cutting out unexpectedly – often with very low mileage (around 1,000–1,500 miles) on the odometer​. In fact, one consumer site logged 352 problem reports for the 2022 Taos, with engine stalling, fuel system faults, and electrical shutdowns being the top grievances​. Some drivers experienced the SUV shaking and the check engine light flashing within days of purchase. Volkswagen had to release software updates to address a fuel management software bug that could cause these stalls. If your Taos has ever hesitated or died while driving, you know how scary that defect is.

• Fuel Pump & Fire Hazard Recall: The Taos was also included in a 2024 class-action (and related recall) regarding a defective suction jet pump in the fuel tank​. In certain 2022–2024 Taos SUVs, a bad seal in this pump can let fuel leak into parts of the emissions system, and possibly out of the vehicle entirely​. Not only could this fuel leakage lead to engine sputtering or stalling from fuel starvation, but any leaked gasoline creates a risk of fire or explosion if it meets an ignition source. Volkswagen’s recall remedy was to replace the pump unit. This issue mirrors the Golf fuel leak problem, indicating some parts commonality.

• Suspension and Braking Issues: Like the Tiguan, the Taos was subject to the rear suspension knuckle recall – some 2022 Taos SUVs had rear axle components that might crack apart due to corrosion. A failure there could make the Taos suddenly lose stability. Owners have also mentioned premature brake problems (the 2022 Taos racked up dozens of brake-related complaints, sometimes at just a few hundred miles​). Some Taos brakes were reported to grind or wear unevenly, possibly due to a caliper or brake assist defect. These kinds of early-life brake failures led VW to inspect and fix affected vehicles under warranty or recall campaigns.

• Electrical System Glitches: Taos drivers have experienced issues like the infotainment screen going blank, error messages about driver assistance features, or even the car failing to start. A number of these were tied to software gremlins in early production models. VW issued service bulletins to update the Taos’s software, which have improved things, but it’s little comfort if you were one of the first owners dealing with a glitchy new car.

• A Word for Taos Owners: If your Volkswagen Taos has spent more time at the dealership than on the road due to these issues, you’re not alone. A car repeatedly stalling or suffering major component failures is exactly the scenario lemon laws cover. Don’t let a dealer tell you “it’s normal” or “we fixed it” if the same problem keeps popping up. You have rights as a consumer. Our firm has heard from VW Taos owners facing these headaches, and we’re prepared to help with VW lemon law claims in California should your Taos prove defective.

Volkswagen ID.4 (Electric SUV)

Volkswagen’s ID.4 is an all-electric crossover introduced for 2021 as part of VW’s push into EVs. It’s high-tech and eco-friendly – but new technology can bring new problems, and the ID.4 has had its share of those since 2022:

• Software Malfunctions & Screen Blackouts: Modern cars are computers on wheels, and the ID.4 is no exception. Several recalls were issued to fix software bugs in the ID.4’s systems. One major recall covered 2021–2023 ID.4s whose center infotainment display and digital cockpit could fail to boot up when starting the car​. If those screens stayed blank, the driver would have no speedometer, no backup camera, and no access to many controls – clearly a dangerous situation. VW acknowledged the glitch and provided a software update so that the ID.4’s screens reliably initialize. Still, many ID.4 owners have reported instances of the infotainment freezing or rebooting randomly, even after updates​.

• Charging and Battery Issues: Owning an electric vehicle is great – until it won’t charge. Some ID.4 drivers have encountered charging failures, where the vehicle refuses to charge at a public station or stops charging well before reaching full capacity​. Error messages like “Battery Charging Fault” have been noted. Additionally, early-build ID.4s had problems with the 12-volt auxiliary battery (the small battery that powers accessories and computers). A faulty 12V battery software setting could let it drain and die, which in turn prevents the car from starting at all. In 2022, VW actually recalled the 2021 ID.4 to replace the 12V battery and update the energy management software after many reports of dead batteries leaving the cars bricked. On the high-voltage side, another recall in 2023 addressed a risk that the main drive battery’s control module could reset while driving, causing a sudden loss of power. Losing drive power without warning on an expressway is extremely dangerous, so VW patched that software bug quickly.

• Door Handle Defect: In late 2024, Volkswagen had to recall nearly 100,000 ID.4s (2021–2024 models) because of an odd but serious problem – the door handles weren’t properly sealed and could let water into the door’s electronics​. Water and circuits don’t mix: in this case it could trigger the doors to open by themselves while the vehicle was in motion​. Imagine driving down the highway and a door unlatches – a terrifying prospect that could lead to passengers falling out or the door hitting something. VW dealerships are replacing the faulty door handle mechanisms with improved, water-proofed versions.

• General Reliability of the ID.4: Being an all-new model with all-new tech, the ID.4 had more growing pains than Volkswagen’s gas models. Along with the issues above, ID.4 owners have cited things like the VW mobile app failing to connect, various warning lights for the EV system, and long waits at service centers due to limited availability of EV technicians and parts​. While the ID.4 is a fun-to-drive electric SUV when it’s working, any recurring problem (be it software or hardware) that can’t be resolved may qualify your ID.4 as a lemon. The lemon law doesn’t exclude EVs – you deserve a safe, functional vehicle. Keep track of all repairs, and if your ID.4 spends extensive time out of service for fixes, consider speaking with a Volkswagen lemon law attorney about next steps.

How Sierra Litigation Helps Volkswagen Owners with Lemon Law Claims

Despite Volkswagen’s efforts to fix issues, many owners are left with cars that just won’t behave. That’s where Sierra Litigation comes in. We’re a California law firm specializing in lemon law cases – including countless claims involving Volkswagen Jettas, Tiguans, Atlases, Taos SUVs, ID.4 EVs, and more. Our mission is to help consumers get justice (and their money back) when a new vehicle turns out to be defective.

What we do for VW owners: If your Volkswagen has been subject to repeated repairs for the same issue or been out of service for an extended period, California’s lemon law (the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act) gives you the right to a remedy. Sierra Litigation’s Volkswagen lemon law lawyers will evaluate your case for free. We’ll review your repair records, identify if your situation meets the lemon criteria, and handle all the legal heavy lifting. Our team knows the common defects in VW models and how to prove that your car’s problems significantly impair its use, value, or safety – the key standard under the law.

How we help: We negotiate directly with Volkswagen (or other automakers) to seek a buyback or replacement vehicle, plus recovery of your attorney’s fees. For example, if your VW Tiguan’s engine kept failing or your Atlas spent weeks in the shop for its airbag system, we push to have VW repurchase the vehicle and refund your payments, or provide you with a comparable new car that works. Our goal is to get you out of a frustrating and unsafe situation. You don’t pay us out of pocket – under lemon law, the manufacturer pays the legal fees when we win. This means no risk to you as the consumer.

Serving all of California: Sierra Litigation proudly assists Volkswagen owners across the Golden State. Whether you’re in the Central Valley with a troublesome VW in Fresno, in the Bay Area commuting in a glitchy ID.4 around San Francisco, or dealing with a lemon VW SUV in Los Angeles, San Diego, Sacramento, or anywhere in between – we have you covered. Our attorneys are familiar with local dealerships and repair centers, and we know the tactics automakers use. We leverage this experience to benefit your claim.

Your Volkswagen Lemon Law Advocates:

In summary, if you suspect your VW is a lemon, don’t wait. The sooner you get legal guidance, the stronger your case can be. Sierra Litigation has the knowledge and experience

 to take on Volkswagen and fight for your rights. We understand how frustrating it is to make car payments on a vehicle that spends more time getting towed or repaired than driving. Let us help you turn that around.

 Our Volkswagen lemon law attorneys will work to get you the compensation or replacement you deserve so you can drive with confidence again.

Contact us for a free consultation. You have nothing to lose – except the headache of dealing with an unreliable Volkswagen. With offices serving clients in Fresno, San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego, Sacramento and throughout California, Sierra Litigation is ready to assist with your VW lemon claim in California. Reach out today, and let’s get your Volkswagen issues resolved for good.