New Volkswagen Atlas, Atlas Cross Sport recalled for hood fire risk

Volkswagen is recalling more than 177,000 new Atlas three-row and related Atlas Cross Sport five-seat crossover SUVs for a heightened fire risk, the NHTSA disclosed Monday. 

The engine cover may have been improperly installed in 2024 and 2025 models, and it could come loose and contact hot surfaces that could cause it to melt and trigger a fire. Owners might notice a burning smell coming from the engine bay or they could open the hood and notice that the engine cover is loose or askew. 

The Volkswagen Atlas was redesigned for its second generation in 2024. The Atlas and slightly shorter Atlas Cross Sport rival the Mazda CX-90 and CX-70, Jeep Grand Cherokee L and Grand Cherokee, and the Toyota Grand Highlander and smaller Highlander. 

This is the fifth recall for the second-generation Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport, but none of them except the first were serious. There was an initial recall in 2023 for engine failure in 2,018 vehicles, but other than that the popular family vehicle has proven safe by recall and crash-test standards. It earned five stars from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS. 

The recall fix is a simple one: remove the engine cover completely. Atlases made after Dec. 4, 2024, have a new engine cover and are not included in this recall. To save you some finger dirt, dealers will remove the engine cover free of charge. Expect notification letters by mail as early as April 18.