Used Volkswagen Arteon 2017-2024 reliability

When viewing a used car, always follow our used car buying checklist.

It’s worth bearing in mind that the Arteon has slim windows that can make visibility a problem, and while parking sensors are standard, it might still be worthwhile checking the bumpers for scrapes.

While you’re at it, make sure those big wheels (even the least expensive Arteons had 18in alloys) aren’t too scuffed. Minor grazes aren’t too much of a problem, but bigger knocks could signify a heavy clonk against a kerb, which could have bent or worn suspension components you can’t see.

Rear wheel bearing housing: The metal housing surrounding the rear wheel bearings of Arteons built between 21 August 2017 and 29 August 2019 might fracture in extreme circumstances. You may notice an abnormal noise coming from the rear of the car and uneven tyre wear. If left, there is also the possibility that a wheel could fall off. Check with a Volkswagen dealer to make sure this recall has been carried out.

Sunroof trim: A small number of cars built from the start of production to 31 May 2017 could have a problem with the sunroof trim which hasn't been bonded correctly to the frame. Any VW dealer will be able to tell you if your car is affected and sort out the issue for you.

Seat backrest: A small number of examples built between 1 May and 31 August 2018 may have been fitted with seats where the welds on the backrest head restraint mounting could fail in an accident. Your Volkswagen dealer should be able to tell you if your car requires a replacement seat frame to solve the problem.

Too little engine torque at low speed: A software update is required on examples made between 9 October 2018 and 28 May 2019 in order to increase the amount of torque the engine provides at low speeds to improve drivability.

Click here for more information. Contact your local VW dealer if you believe your vehicle is involved in a recall.

The VW Arteon has had some issues in the past when it comes to reliability. However, in our 2024 What Car? Reliability Survey, it ranked eighth out of 13 cars in the coupé, convertible and sports cars class. Its reliability score of 92.7% is a great improvement on previous years.

Issues affected 32% of Arteon cars reported on for our survey, with the sat-nav/infotainment system playing up in 27% of those. Although Volkswagen covered the cost of 82% of remedial work, 9% of owners had to find more than £1500 to have their cars put right. Around a third of the affected cars were off the road for more than a week.

As a car brand, VW ranked 18th out of 31 manufacturers featured. Its overall reliability score of 90.5% is okay at best, with it bettering Audi and Vauxhall's efforts but falling far short of BMW, Hyundai and Kia.

Used Volkswagen Arteon reliability: the owners' view

As part of our annual Reliability Survey, What Car? readers said the Volkswagen Arteon, in both petrol and diesel forms from 2017 onwards, has had a mixed record for reliability.

Several owners reported persistent issues with warning lights appearing without clear cause, and some experienced electrical gremlins, including problems with sensors and the infotainment system. A few diesel owners highlighted problems with the AdBlue system and emissions-related faults, which required repeat visits to the dealer.

Feedback on Volkswagen’s dealer network was similarly varied. While some drivers praised efficient and courteous service, others expressed frustration over delays in diagnosing faults and long wait times for replacement parts. One reader mentioned a minor issue taking over three weeks to resolve. A handful also commented that costs for out-of-warranty repairs were higher than expected. While not all owners encountered problems, the number of reports raises questions about long-term dependability and dealer consistency.