Last updated: 2026-03-14

2023 Volkswagen Taos
RELIABILITY SCORE: 73/100 (GOOD)

2023 Volkswagen Taos Reliability Report

The 2023 Volkswagen Taos scores 73/100 ("Good"). With 0 recalls and 87 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Recalls

0

Complaints

87

Complaint Rate

2.6

per 10k sold

Est. Annual Cost

N/A

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity79/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs40/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact100/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity86/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

  • SERVICE BRAKES (20)
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (17)
  • ENGINE (16)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Redesign (Year 2)

2023 is year 2 of the First generation (Type A1).

  • Redesigned for the 2022 model year.
  • A refresh arrives in 2025.
  • 1st generation Taos (US).

What this means for buyers

Year 2 is typically a safer pick than the first model year — early issues are more likely to be identified, but the platform is still new.

If you're comparing prices, check 2022 (redesign year) vs 2023+ pricing and recalls.

2022: First generation (Type A1) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2023: This Model Year

2023 is year 2 of the First generation (Type A1).

2025: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

Should You Buy the 2023 Volkswagen Taos?

The 2023 Volkswagen Taos scores 73/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory. 2023 is year 2 of the First generation (Type A1).

With 87 owner complaints, some reported issues may need attention, but we don't yet see evidence of a single dominant failure mode.

A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to service brakes (19). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.

Compared to the 2024 Volkswagen Taos, which scored 1 points higher. See also the 2022 Volkswagen Taos for an earlier comparison.

Pros

  • +Acceptable reliability score
  • +No recalls issued
  • +Below-average complaint rate for SUV

Cons

  • SERVICE BRAKES issues reported (20 complaints)
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Unexpected engine shutdowns and acceleration failures (17 complaints)

Compare 2023 Volkswagen Taos With

Common Problem Categories

Other

HIGH RISK
  • SERVICE BRAKES (20)
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (17)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

0

recalls on record

The 2023 Volkswagen Taos has no recalls on record, which is uncommon and a positive indicator of manufacturing quality.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

2.6

per 10k sold

Segment avg: 12.3

LowAvgHigh
Low

Safety Incidents

1

Crashes

0

Fires

0

Injuries

0

Deaths

NHTSA 4/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2023 Volkswagen Taos NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Overall safety rating: 4 out of 5
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 4/5Passenger: 4/5

Rollover risk: 17.4%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Advanced Belt Feature (Not Available)Seat Belt Pretensioners (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Load Limiters (Driver, Front Passenger)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Head Protection (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Torso and/or Pelvis Protection (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Not Available)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (2nd row)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard/Optional)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row/Roof)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Volkswagen Taos Repair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

2Maintenance rating: 2 out of 5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

2023 Volkswagen Taos Example Repair Prices

National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.

Common repair costs and price estimates
RepairEstimated Cost
Tire Pressure Monitor Lamp Diagnosis$182 – $268
Power Steering System Leak Inspection$70 – $103
Active Suspension System Diagnosis & Testing$70 – $103
Brake Booster Replacement$556 – $766
Crankshaft Position Sensor Replacement$282 – $393
HVAC Blend Door Actuator Replacement$725 – $824
Parking Brake Activation Switch Replacement$115 – $148
Transfer Case Output Shaft Oil Seal Replacement$1,229 – $1,695
Air Conditioning Expansion Valve Replacement$267 – $328
Air Conditioning Refrigerant Pressure Sensor Replacement$303 – $329

Estimates based on national average repair costs. Actual costs may vary by location and shop.

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2023 Volkswagen Taos.

  • Inspect coolant levels for signs of head gasket leaks

  • Check rear brake pads and rotors for premature wear

  • Test drive to assess acceleration response and potential delays

  • Verify infotainment system functionality and check for screen issues

  • Check for any warning lights on the dashboard during a test drive

  • Inspect tires for uneven or premature wear

Buying a 2023 Taos? Check Its History First

Every 2023 Volkswagen Taos has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

2023 Volkswagen Taos Common Problems by Component

87 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

20
17
16
9
SERVICE BRAKES (20)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (17)ENGINE (16)POWER TRAIN (8)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (8)VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (5)SUSPENSION (2)WHEELS (2)Other (9)

SERVICE BRAKES

20 complaints

Owners report frequent premature wear of rear brake pads and rotors on the 2023 Volkswagen Taos, often requiring replacement as early as 16,000 miles. Complaints frequently mention excessive noise, grinding, and reduced braking effectiveness, with some attributing the issue to potential design or electronic system defects such as the Electronic Parking Brake or Active Cruise Control. There are also mentions of the emergency brake causing the rear pads to stick to the rotors in wet conditions, leading to potential safety concerns if brakes unexpectedly release. While Volkswagen has extended the warranty for rear brake pads, many owners find themselves outside of this coverage due to mileage, facing repeated replacements and associated costs. Buyers considering a used Taos should be aware of these recurring brake issues and the potential financial and safety implications.

20 complaints total

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

17 complaints

Owners of the 2023 Volkswagen Taos frequently report issues with the vehicle's electrical system, particularly involving unexpected engine shutdowns and acceleration failures. Common symptoms include the engine stalling while driving, loss of acceleration, and multiple warning lights illuminating, such as the check engine light and EPC light. These issues often occur at various speeds, sometimes resulting in the loss of brake assist, which poses a significant safety risk. Complaints also mention problems with the vehicle's start/stop system and intermittent electrical failures affecting the dashboard and infotainment systems. Many of these issues appear within the first few thousand miles of ownership, with some owners experiencing repeated incidents despite dealership attempts at repair.

17 complaints total

ENGINE

16 complaints

Owners report frequent head gasket failures in the 2023 Volkswagen Taos, typically occurring between 10,000 and 30,000 miles. Common symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and coolant leaking into the oil, often accompanied by warning lights on the dashboard. Several complaints also describe the engine stalling unexpectedly, particularly while stopped or at low speeds, which poses a potential safety risk. Some owners mention long wait times for repairs due to parts availability, with the issue being recognized by dealerships as a known problem. This pattern of head gasket issues, combined with stalling, is a critical consideration for potential buyers evaluating the reliability of this model.

16 complaints total
POWER TRAIN (8 complaints)

POWER TRAIN

8 complaints

Owners report that the 2023 Volkswagen Taos exhibits delayed throttle response and sudden bursts of acceleration. Complaints frequently mention a 2-3 second lag when accelerating from a stop or at low speeds, with some drivers experiencing unexpected rapid acceleration afterward. This pattern is noted as particularly dangerous when merging into traffic or driving on highways. Additionally, one complaint describes issues with the vehicle not reversing properly, requiring multiple restarts. These issues are reported at various mileage points, including as early as 7,400 miles, and have led to near-miss accidents, highlighting potential safety risks for drivers.

8 complaints total
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (8 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

8 complaints

Owners report several recurring issues with the 2023 Volkswagen Taos, primarily involving electronic and mechanical components. Complaints frequently mention problems with the infotainment system going black while driving, navigation system inaccuracies, and rearview camera malfunctions, all of which could pose safety risks if drivers are relying on these systems. Additionally, multiple owners describe mechanical issues such as coolant system leaks and premature rear brake pad wear, with some incidents occurring at relatively low mileages, around 26,000 miles. Safety implications are noted with the automatic start-stop system failure and an incident of a spontaneously exploding sunroof, although no crashes or fires are reported. These patterns suggest potential concerns for prospective buyers regarding electronic reliability and mechanical durability.

8 complaints total
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (5 complaints)

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

5 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2023 Volkswagen Taos frequently report issues related to vehicle speed control, with symptoms including unexpected acceleration and delayed throttle response. Complaints often mention jerkiness or lurching at lower speeds, sudden bursts of acceleration from a stop, and significant acceleration lag, particularly during turns, which can leave the vehicle momentarily stranded in traffic. These issues are noted at various mileage levels, with one vehicle having as few as 3,300 miles. Safety implications are evident, as one complaint describes a crash caused by sudden acceleration while parking, resulting in the vehicle striking a tree and a sign. For potential buyers, these patterns suggest a need for careful evaluation of the vehicle's speed control system, especially concerning acceleration behavior.

5 complaints total1 crash
SUSPENSION (2 complaints)

SUSPENSION

2 complaints

Owners of the 2023 Volkswagen Taos report issues with the vehicle's suspension, particularly noting that both rear shock absorbers are leaking and require replacement. Complaints frequently mention the need for replacement of these components in vehicles as young as two years. Additionally, some owners describe noise originating from the front wheel at low speeds, though no specific mileage range is provided. There are no reports of crashes, fires, or loss of control associated with these issues. Buyers considering a used Taos should be aware of potential suspension repairs, particularly regarding the rear shock absorbers.

2 complaints total
WHEELS (2 complaints)

WHEELS

2 complaints

Owners of the 2023 Volkswagen Taos report issues primarily related to premature tire wear, with tires wearing out after approximately 32,000 miles. They describe the need for tire replacement sooner than expected, which some attribute to potential suspension design problems. Although these complaints are in the wheels category, there is also mention of persistent noise from brake pads and rotors, despite multiple repair attempts. These reported issues could affect traction, handling, and braking performance, which may have safety implications. Buyers should be aware of these potential concerns when considering this vehicle, particularly if purchasing a used model with higher mileage.

2 complaints total
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (1 complaints)

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

1 complaint
2024-07-17

The contact owns a 2023 Volkswagen Taos. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who diagnosed that there was coolant intrusion into the head gasket. The head gasket was replaced, and the vehicle was repaired. Later, while driving 55 MPH, the message "Transmission Failure" was displayed and the transmission shifted to D2, causing the vehicle to decelerate to 25 MPH. The vehicle was parked, and after restarting the vehicle, the vehicle operated normally. The vehicle was later taken to the local dealer, who diagnosed that the Medtronic transmission had failed and needed to be replaced; however, parts were on back order. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 10,185.

STEERING (1 complaints)

STEERING

1 complaint
2025-08-09

My steering wheel does not turn

When Do 2023 Volkswagen Taos Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

10,000–30,000 milesHead gasket failures
16,000–25,000 milesRear brake pad wear

Best & Worst Volkswagen Taos Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Volkswagen Taos Years to Buy

The best Volkswagen Taos year is 2024 with a reliability score of 74/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2023 (73/100) and 2025 (69/100).

Top Pick
74
Good

2024

0Recalls
41Complaints
73
Good

2023

(Current Model)

0Recalls
87Complaints
69
Good

2025

0Recalls
3Complaints

Volkswagen Taos Years to Avoid

The worst Volkswagen Taos year is 2022 with a score of 59/100, primarily due to engine (64) issues.

Volkswagen Taos Reliability Score Trend

Volkswagen Taos reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 72/100 compared to 66/100 for older years.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Volkswagen Taos reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
202259/100Mixed
202373/100Good
202474/100Good
202569/100Good

Volkswagen Taos Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202672/100 (predicted)Predicted00
202569/100-5Good03
202474/100+1Good041
2023(selected)73/100+14Good087
202259/100Mixed6277

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2023 Volkswagen Taos reliable?
The 2023 Volkswagen Taos has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 73/100. It is reasonably reliable with 0 recalls and 87 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2023 Volkswagen Taos?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2023 Volkswagen Taos include: SERVICE BRAKES (20 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (17 complaints), ENGINE (16 complaints), POWER TRAIN (8 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (8 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2023 Volkswagen Taos have?
The 2023 Volkswagen Taos has no recalls on record, which is a positive indicator.
Is the 2023 Volkswagen Taos expensive to maintain?
The 2023 Volkswagen Taos should have average maintenance costs for its class. With a reliability score of 73/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2023 Volkswagen Taos without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Look Up a VIN →

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

1

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

4

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

  • 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
  • 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
  • 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
  • 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

See incorrect data? Report an issue