If you own or previously leased a 2018–2024 Volkswagen Atlas in the United States or Puerto Rico, you may be entitled to significant benefits—including reimbursements for past repairs and extended warranties—thanks to a class action settlement involving a reported defect in the second-row seat latching mechanism.
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What Is the Lawsuit About?
A class action lawsuit was filed against Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (VWGoA), claiming that certain 2018–2024 Atlas models were sold with a defect in the second-row seat latching system. While VWGoA denies any wrongdoing, they agreed to a settlement to resolve the case and avoid further litigation.
The settlement provides compensation for affected owners and lessees—covering certain repair costs and offering warranty extensions.
Who Is Eligible to File a Claim?
To be considered part of the Settlement Class, you must meet all of the following criteria:
Basic Eligibility
- You currently or previously owned or leased a 2018–2024 Volkswagen Atlas.
- The vehicle was imported and distributed by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- You reside in the United States or Puerto Rico.
- Your vehicle must be verified as a “Settlement Class Vehicle” by checking its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) through the official on the settlement website.
Additional Guidelines
- Both individual and business vehicle owners or lessees may qualify.
- You do not need to still own or lease the vehicle to be eligible.
- Multiple claims may be filed if you owned or leased more than one eligible vehicle.
- Eligibility is VIN-specific—make sure your vehicle qualifies.
What Benefits Are Available Under the Settlement?
1. Extended Warranty Coverage
All qualifying vehicles will receive a warranty extension covering the cost of repair or replacement of a defective second-row seat latch, beginning May 21, 2025. The warranty is valid for:
- Up to 10 years or 100,000 miles from the vehicle’s original in-service date
- Repairs must be performed by an authorized Volkswagen dealer
2. Reimbursement for Previous Repairs
You may be reimbursed for 100% of out-of-pocket costs for one qualifying repair if:
- It occurred before May 21, 2025
- It was performed within 10 years or 100,000 miles of the vehicle’s original in-service date
Reimbursement Limits for Non-Dealer Repairs
If the repair was performed by a non-VW dealership, reimbursement is capped as follows:
- $645 for a seat latch or latch cover
- $1,700 for a second-row seat or seat frame replacement
Repairs due to accidents, misuse, or external damage do not qualify.
Examples of Reimbursement Scenarios
- You paid $600 at a local repair shop for a seat latch: You may be reimbursed the full amount, assuming no prior compensation.
- You spent $2,000 for a second-row seat replacement: You’ll receive up to $1,700 if the repair meets the eligibility criteria.
- You received a $200 goodwill payment for a $600 repair: You’ll be reimbursed $400 ($600 – $200).
How to Submit a Claim for Reimbursement
To claim your benefits, you must submit your completed claim form and required documentation by August 4, 2025.
Submission Options
- Online: Visit the official settlement website
- By Mail: Download and complete the PDF claim form and mail it to:
Volkswagen Atlas Seat Latch Settlement
c/o JND Legal Administration
P.O. Box 91123
Seattle, WA 98111
What Documentation Do You Need?
Claims must be supported with proof, including:
- Repair invoice or service record that clearly includes:
- Claimant’s name and address
- Vehicle’s make, model, and VIN
- Repair shop details (name and address)
- Date of repair and vehicle mileage
- Detailed description of the work performed, including parts and labor costs
- Proof of payment for the repair
- If the vehicle or person submitting the claim differs from what’s on the original notice, include documents proving class membership and vehicle ownership
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Important Deadlines to Know
- Deadline to File a Claim: August 4, 2025
- Final Fairness Hearing: August 27, 2025
- Deadline for Attorney Fee and Service Award Applications: June 16, 2025
When Will Payments Be Made?
If your claim is approved, you can expect payment within 150 days after either:
- The claim is received and validated, or
- The settlement receives final court approval—whichever comes later
The court’s Final Fairness Hearing is scheduled for August 27, 2025.
Why Was the Settlement Reached?
Volkswagen has not admitted to any defect or legal violations but agreed to the settlement to avoid further legal battles and provide timely benefits to affected owners and lessees. This agreement ensures that class members can get compensated or have repairs covered without needing to go to court.
Final Thoughts: Should You File a Claim?
If you owned or leased a 2018–2024 Volkswagen Atlas and dealt with issues related to the second-row seat latch—or even if you didn’t—it’s worth checking your VIN for eligibility. If you qualify, you could receive hundreds or even thousands of dollars in reimbursement, or enjoy peace of mind with extended warranty coverage.
