One problem related to engine grinding noise has been reported for the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas based on all problems reported for the 2019 Atlas.
This is a consistent issue and I'm worried powertrain damage is occurring. When accelerating from stopped or at low speed there is a very loud screening / grinding sound coming from the powertrain / transmission - possibly the torque converter. It happens frequently and is is very noticeable, usually when the vehicle starts to accelerate or increases acceleration at low speed then it usually goes away. I described the to two vw dealership service departments and both said "they hadn't heard of that one. " I was in for other service and was told they could not replicate the sound, however it screeched when leaving the dealership! the vw Atlas forums have many posts on this issue. And lots of folks like myself are not getting any information and are concerned about safety. I did not get any meaningful help from vw or their dealer service departments. I am also worried this is causing issues or damage and is not being acknowledged or addressed by vw and their authorized service facilities.