NHTSA Complaint #11711515 — 2022 VOLKSWAGEN TAOS

Since we bought the vehicle new in 2022, it has had an ongoing brake noise at low speeds. It sounds like a screeching or grinding, and I only hear it when I press the brake pedal. It is most noticeable right after startup when driving slowly. The main issue I am reporting is uneven rear brake pad wear, which may indicate the rear brake system is not applying evenly or not functioning correctly. The component involved is the rear brake system (rear brake pads and related parts). The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. A Volkswagen dealership confirmed an uneven wear condition. On 12/31/2025, the dealership performed an inspection and recorded that the left rear brake pad measured 3 mm while the right rear measured 8 mm. They recommended replacing the rear brake pads but did not diagnose or repair the cause of why one rear side is wearing much faster than the other. In prior visits, the dealership stated the noise was related to the type/quality of brake pads used. When I contacted the dealership again about the ongoing noise and the uneven wear, they stated they did not have a solution to correct the underlying problem and referred me to Volkswagen Customer Care, indicating they cannot get the brakes functioning beyond replacing pads. Volkswagen Customer Care then advised me I would need to work through the dealership. I believe this creates a safety risk because uneven rear brake wear may mean the brakes are not working the same on both sides, which could affect stopping distance or braking stability, and could lead to brake problems if one side wears out much sooner than the other. There have been no warning lights or messages. The symptoms began soon after purchase in 2022 and have continued over time.