Dealership Says ‘Nothing Can Be Done’—Is This 2024 VW Atlas a Lemon?

DEAR SUZANNE

By Suzanne Henderson
LETTER 220 – Curtis S. from Paterson, NJ

Dear Suzanne,

I thought I would finally be able to call myself the proud owner of a 2024 Volkswagen Atlas, but right now, that’s the last thing on my mind. When I was researching this SUV, it was marketed as a family vehicle, but I wouldn’t dare let my family ride in this deathtrap. I bought it used because getting a good deal was just as important to me as comfort, but since I drove it off the lot, I’ve had neither.

When I purchased the Atlas, it had 7,100 miles on it. Now, it’s up to 19,000 miles, and I’ve dealt with one issue after another. A few days ago, I was venting to my coworkers about all the problems I’ve had when one of them suggested I look into the New Jersey Lemon Law. He said I might qualify, but I’d have to meet certain requirements first. So, here’s what I’ve been dealing with—I’d appreciate it if you could tell me whether I have a case.

Drivetrain Issues & Overheating

The first problem started about a week after I bought the car. I was out driving with my family when I noticed strange noises coming from the vehicle. I asked my wife if she heard them, but she told me I was imagining things. Then, about five minutes later, a burning odor filled the car—this time, everyone noticed it.

We pulled over and checked around the vehicle, but I couldn’t figure out where the smell was coming from. I called the VW dealership right away, and they asked me to bring it in for a checkup. They kept the car for four days before calling me to pick it up, claiming they had fixed the issue.

The next morning, I noticed fluids leaking from underneath the car. I assumed it was leftover from the repairs, so I didn’t think much of it. But on my way to work, I saw the temperature gauge spike to dangerous levels—the car was overheating. Imagine picking up your car from the dealership after four days, only to be back the very next morning for a major engine issue.

This time, they took a closer look and determined it was a powertrain issue. They either fixed or replaced something, but they weren’t exactly clear on the details. That issue hasn’t returned, but unfortunately, that wasn’t the end of my problems.

Electrical System Malfunctions in Cold Weather

I didn’t notice this problem until winter hit, but it’s been a constant headache ever since.

One cold morning, I got into my SUV, started the engine, and went to turn on the heater—but nothing happened. I fumbled with the controls, thinking I had done something wrong, but the system was completely unresponsive. That’s when I realized other electrical components weren’t working either—the infotainment system was frozen, the automatic liftgate wouldn’t open, and even the safety system was acting up.

After about ten minutes, everything suddenly powered on—the heater, the screen, the liftgate, all of it. At first, I thought it was a one-time fluke, but it kept happening. Over time, I noticed a pattern: whenever the temperature dropped below 40 degrees, my Atlas would have a 10-minute delay before the electrical system fully booted up.

I took it to the dealership, and they kept it for a day, only to tell me they couldn’t find anything wrong. The very next morning, the same thing happened again. Frustrated, I brought it back, and this time, they held onto the car for a full week before calling me with an answer I couldn’t believe—“There’s nothing we can do to fix it.”

So what does that mean? That I just have to deal with waiting 10 minutes every winter for my SUV to function properly? What if I have an emergency? I’ve always heard New Jersey dealerships have a reputation for being shady, but this is next-level incompetence.

Does New Jersey Lemon Law Apply to My Case?

After complaining to my coworker about the dealership’s uselessness, he told me to look into New Jersey’s Lemon Law instead of trying to go through Volkswagen directly. He mentioned that I might be able to get compensation or even a refund if my car qualifies.

Is that true? Do I have a Lemon Law case with these issues? What are the proper steps to file a claim if I qualify? I’m honestly exhausted and just need some real answers.

Looking forward to your advice,
Curtis S.
Paterson, NJ

Editor’s Note: This letter has been edited for clarity, and personally identifiable details like names and actual locations have been changed to protect the letter sender’s privacy.

Overheating, Electrical Failures—Your 2024 VW Atlas Could Be a Lemon

Dear Curtis,

Nothing is worse than spending thousands of dollars on a car, only to have it break down again and again—especially when the dealership refuses to fix the problem. Your 2024 Volkswagen Atlas has had serious drivetrain and electrical issues, and now, the dealership is basically telling you to live with it. That’s not right. 

Your coworker was right to suggest New Jersey’s Lemon Law because based on what you’ve shared, you may have a strong case. Let’s break everything down so you understand where you stand and what you can do next.

Does New Jersey Lemon Law Apply to My Case?

Yes, New Jersey’s New Car Lemon Law (N.J.S.A. 56:12-29 to 56:12-49) applies to your 2024 Volkswagen Atlas, as long as:

• The car is less than two years old or has fewer than 24,000 miles (yours qualifies).
• The defect affects the use, value, or safety of the vehicle (your drivetrain and electrical issues clearly do).
• The dealership has had at least three failed repair attempts for the same issue OR the car has been out of service for 20 or more days due to repairs.

You’ve already brought your car in multiple times for drivetrain issues and electrical failures, and the dealership admitted they can’t fix the problem. That’s a big red flag that your car could qualify as a lemon under New Jersey law.

What Are My Options If My Car Qualifies?

If your Volkswagen Atlas is deemed a lemon, the manufacturer must:

• Buy back the car and issue a full refund (minus a small mileage deduction).
• Provide a comparable replacement vehicle if you prefer.
• Reimburse you for costs like rental cars, towing, and repair-related expenses.

Since your dealership hasn’t fixed the problem, you don’t have to accept their excuses. New Jersey’s Lemon Law gives you real legal options to get the compensation you deserve.

Is Filing a Lemon Law Claim Better Than Contacting Volkswagen Directly?

Yes. Filing a Lemon Law claim is usually more effective than dealing with the manufacturer directly. If you only contact Volkswagen, they might delay the process, offer a partial repair, or try to make you settle for less. A Lemon Law claim forces them to take real action—whether that’s a refund, replacement, or settlement.

And here’s the best part: New Jersey’s Lemon Law requires the manufacturer to pay your attorney’s fees if you win, so you won’t have to pay out of pocket to fight for your rights.

What Are the Steps to File a Lemon Law Claim?

1. Gather all records – Keep every repair invoice, service report, and communication with the dealership.
2. Send a final repair request – If you haven’t already, send a certified letter to Volkswagen giving them one last chance to fix the issue.
3. Submit a Lemon Law application – You can file through the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs at www.NJConsumerAffairs.gov.
4. Prepare for a hearing – If your case moves forward, it may go before an Administrative Law Judge, who will decide if you’re entitled to compensation.

Since this process can be time-sensitive, it’s best to get started right away.

The Next Step: Speak to a Lemon Law Attorney

At this point, I strongly recommend speaking with a New Jersey Lemon Law attorney. A lawyer can review your case, handle all the legal paperwork, and deal directly with Volkswagen, so you don’t have to. And remember—if you win, Volkswagen pays your legal fees. That means there’s no financial risk in getting expert help.

Final Thoughts

Every day you wait is another day you’re stuck with a car that isn’t safe and doesn’t work the way it should. You’ve been more than patient, but if Volkswagen and the dealership won’t fix the problem, it’s time for you to demand what’s fair and hold them accountable. 

New Jersey’s Lemon Law gives you real legal options, but acting quickly is key. Don’t wait any longer—this is your opportunity to finally get the resolution you need.

Suzanne

2024 Volkswagen Atlas Lemon Car? We’ve Got You Covered!

Dear reader, are your vehicle problems ruining your life? Confused about what legal route to take? We’re here to help! Find information about Texas’ lemon law protections here, fill out the form on this page, or give us a call at (833) 743-1990 to discuss your situation with someone who understands how frustrating it can be to have a lemon car, and what to do about it.

DEAR SUZANNE is a weekly column written by Suzanne Henderson and published in LemonLawyers.ORG. If you have a defective lemon vehicle and have questions about New Jersey Lemon Law or how to file a claim, please write to [email protected]. While not guaranteed, we will try to feature your letter in this column to provide you the answers you need, as well as enlighten other consumers who may have lemon problems similar to yours.

Disclaimer: Suzanne Henderson is not a lawyer and the points discussed here are intended for general information and reference purposes only and not to be construed as legal advice. Please consult a New Jersey Lemon Law Attorney to get proper legal advice about your lemon law claim.

Related Articles:

• Stuck With a Defective Car? Your Guide to Filing a Lemon Law Claim in New Jersey
• New Jersey’s Lemon Law: Could Your Car Qualify for a Refund?
• Lemon Cars in New Jersey: How to Get a Refund, Replacement, or More

Featured Images:

• 2024 Volkswagen Atlas ©OWS Photography (CC BY-SA 4.0)