2021 Volkswagen Arteon

Vehicle Specs & Maintenance Data

Engine
2L I4 Turbo
Oil Type & Capacity
5W-40 Full Synthetic (5.8 qts)
Transmission
Automatic (AM7)
Wheel Torque
103
ft-lbs

The 2021 Volkswagen Arteon maintenance specs on this page cover the key fluids, torque values, and wear items you need for routine service. Use these numbers as a quick reference when performing oil changes, tire rotations, brake jobs, and other scheduled maintenance on your Volkswagen Arteon.

For oil changes, the 2021 Volkswagen Arteon takes 5W-40 Full Synthetic motor oil with a capacity of 5.8 quarts. Brake fluid type is DOT 4, the recommended coolant is G13 (Purple, phosphate-free), and transmission fluid is VW G 055 025 A2. Always use the manufacturer-recommended fluids to maintain warranty coverage and engine longevity.

When mounting wheels on the Volkswagen Arteon, torque the lug nuts to 103 ft-lbs using a calibrated torque wrench. Over- or under-torquing can lead to warped brake rotors or loose wheels. Re-torque after 50 to 100 miles on newly installed wheels.

Owners of the 2021 Volkswagen Arteon have reported 5 common issues including "DSG 7-Speed Transmission Shudder at Low Speeds", "Electrical Gremlins and Module Communication Errors" and "Excessive Oil Consumption (2.0T EA888)". Scroll down to the Diagnostics tab for detailed descriptions, solutions, and estimated repair costs.

There are 4 NHTSA safety recalls on file for the 2021 Volkswagen Arteon. Check the Recalls tab below for full details.

Specifications on this page are compiled from multiple publicly available sources including manufacturer documentation, NHTSA data, and automotive databases. Always cross-reference with your owner's manual or official factory documentation before purchasing parts or performing any service.

The 2021 Volkswagen Arteon uses 5W-40 Full Synthetic motor oil (5.8 qt capacity), requires lug nuts torqued to 103 ft-lbs, takes DOT 4 brake fluid.

2021 Volkswagen Arteon Specifications
Motor Oil5W-40 Full Synthetic
Oil Capacity5.8 qt
Lug Nut Torque103 ft-lbs
Brake FluidDOT 4
CoolantG13 (Purple, phosphate-free)
Transmission FluidVW G 055 025 A2
Transmission Fluid
Fluid Type
VW G 055 025 A2
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Coolant
Fluid Type
G13 (Purple, phosphate-free)
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Brake Fluid
Fluid Type
DOT 4
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Washer Fluid
Windshield
Shop

Manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule for the 2021 Volkswagen Arteon. Always verify intervals against your owner's manual.

Service Item
Interval
Engine Oil & Filter
10,000 mi / 12 mo
VW 502 5W-40; ~5.7 qt (EA888 2.0T)
Tire Rotation
10,000 mi
Cabin Air Filter
20,000 mi / 24 mo
Engine Air Filter
40,000 mi / 48 mo
Brake Fluid
24 mo
DOT 4 LV
Transmission Fluid
60,000 mi
Aisin 8-speed auto
Coolant
100,000 mi / 60 mo
VW G13
Spark Plugs
60,000 mi
Serpentine Belt
60,000 mi
Battery
60 mo
Code with VCDS
DTC Code Lookup

Enter a diagnostic trouble code to see causes, symptoms, and fixes for the 2021 Volkswagen Arteon.

Common problems reported by 2021 Volkswagen Arteon owners, with recommended fixes and estimated repair costs.

1

DSG 7-Speed Transmission Shudder at Low Speeds

The DQ381 7-speed DSG in the 2022 Arteon develops a shudder or vibration during low-speed creeping maneuvers, such as parking or stop-and-go traffic. The dual-clutch engagement at launch can feel rough and jerky, and the transmission may hesitate between 1st and 2nd gear.

Solution

VW released DSG software adaptation updates to improve low-speed clutch engagement. The dealer will reset the DSG adaptations and install the latest TCM firmware. If clutch wear is detected, the DSG clutch pack may need replacement. Regular DSG fluid changes every 40,000 miles are recommended.

Est. Cost: $0 for software adaptation; $2,500 - $4,000 for clutch pack replacement
2

Electrical Gremlins and Module Communication Errors

The 2022 Arteon is prone to various electrical faults including random warning lights, driver assistance system malfunctions, instrument cluster flickering, and battery drain. The CAN bus communication between modules can become intermittent, causing cascading fault codes and unpredictable behavior.

Solution

A full vehicle diagnostic scan with VW-specific tools (ODIS) is required to identify the affected modules. The dealer will update all module firmware to the latest versions and check for CAN bus wiring integrity. A failing gateway module is a common root cause.

Est. Cost: $150 - $300 for diagnosis; $500 - $1,500 for module replacement and programming
3

Excessive Oil Consumption (2.0T EA888)

Like other VW models with the 2.0T EA888 engine, the 2022 Arteon can exhibit excessive oil consumption, using a quart every 2,000-3,000 miles. The issue is related to piston ring design and PCV system behavior. No external leaks are present and the dipstick may show low levels between service intervals.

Solution

Request a formal oil consumption test from the dealer. If consumption exceeds VW's threshold, piston ring or short block replacement may be authorized under warranty. Monitor oil level regularly between changes. Use only VW 508.00 specification full synthetic oil.

Est. Cost: $0 under warranty; $3,000 - $5,500 for internal engine repair out of warranty
4

Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Assist Sensor Faults

The front radar sensor and windshield camera used by adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist in the 2022 Arteon intermittently fault, displaying messages like 'ACC not available' or 'Front Assist currently not available.' The sensors can be affected by minor debris, condensation, or temperature extremes.

Solution

Clean the front radar sensor (behind the VW emblem in the grille) and windshield camera area. VW released software updates to improve sensor calibration and fault tolerance. If the radar sensor or camera module has failed, replacement and calibration with ADAS equipment is required.

Est. Cost: $0 for software update; $500 - $1,500 for radar sensor replacement and calibration
5

Sunroof Wind Noise and Whistling

Owners of 2019-2022 Arteons report an annoying wind whistle or howling noise emanating from the panoramic sunroof area at highway speeds (60-80 mph). The noise varies with speed and wind direction and can be loud enough to interfere with conversation and audio.

Solution

VW issued TSBs to adjust the sunroof seal pressure and alignment. The dealer will inspect and realign the sunroof cassette, replace any deformed seals, and verify the sunroof frame is properly seated. A wind deflector accessory can also reduce the noise.

Est. Cost: $0 for seal adjustment under warranty; $200 - $600 for seal replacement; $100 - $150 for wind deflector

4 NHTSA safety recalls for the 2021 Volkswagen Arteon. Check your VIN at NHTSA.gov

1

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

Campaign: 22V514000 Date: 20/07/2022

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Golf GTI, Jetta GLI, Jetta NF, Arteon FL, Tiguan LWB, 2022 Taos, Jetta PA, Tiguan PA, 2021-2022 Atlas Cross Sport, and Atlas FL vehicles. The manufacturing process of the eMMC memory module in the infotainment system may cause the rearview camera image not to display. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Consequence

A rearview camera that does not display an image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will update the infotainment software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 16, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 91DV.

2

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:CRITICAL FASTENERS

Campaign: 21V695000 Date: 08/09/2021

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Arteon vehicles. The pressure input rod connection on the brake booster may be loose and could detach.

Consequence

A detached pressure input rod will cause the brake pedal to fail, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will tighten the pressure input rod connection, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 28, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 47R3.

3

TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS

Campaign: 21V274000 Date: 21/04/2021

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Arteon vehicles. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensors were incorrectly calibrated and may not detect the position of a wheel sensor after tire rotation. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."

Consequence

The TPMS may misidentify a tire with low air pressure, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the wheel electronics and tire valves, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 25, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 44R2.

4

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

Campaign: 20V716000 Date: 18/11/2020

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Atlas Cross Sport, Tiguan LWB, Jetta NF, Jetta GLI, Golf GTI, Atlas FL and Arteon vehicles. The rear view camera could malfunction during an ignition cycle, leading to a black screen or infotainment system freeze. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Consequence

A black or frozen rear view image reduces the driver's visibility when reversing, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will update the infotainment system software, free of charge. The recall began December 11, 2020. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 91BB/91BC.

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See Also
2021 Volkswagen Arteon Lug Nut TorqueBest Oil for 2021 Volkswagen ArteonAll Vehicles Using 5W-40 Full Synthetic OilAll Vehicles Using DOT 4Oil Change Guide: 2021 Volkswagen ArteonWiper Replacement: 2021 Volkswagen Arteon