Volkswagen Passat problems
The Volkswagen Passat is a nameplate of large family cars (D-segment) manufactured and marketed by the German automobile manufacturer Volkswagen since 1973. It has been marketed variously as the Dasher, Santana, Quantum, Magotan, Corsar and Carat, with varying body styles such as saloon, estate, and hatchback.
A "four-door coupé" variant of the Passat with a lower roof was released in the North American market in 2008 as the Passat CC, which was then renamed to Volkswagen CC. The CC was succeeded by the Arteon in 2017.
In January 2011, Volkswagen introduced a separate Passat model line, internally designated "Volkswagen New Midsize Sedan" or NMS, that was manufactured in the US at the Chattanooga assembly plant and in China at Nanjing by SAIC-Volkswagen. Developed to increase Volkswagen sales in North America, the Passat NMS is larger and cost less to produce. sold in the North America, South Korea, China, and Middle East. The separate B8 Passat model entered production in Europe in 2014, based on the MQB platform.
In 2019, the Passat NMS program was split into two as the North American one continued being produced on an older platform while the Chinese Passat moved on to the MQB platform, which resulted in Volkswagen marketed three models under the Passat nameplate globally at that time. The North American Passat was discontinued after the 2022 model year.
Volkswagen ended the production of the saloon Passat for the European market in 2022. The B9 Passat, released in 2023, is only available in an estate body style. The Passat continues to be available as a saloon in China.
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Volkswagen Passat model years
Common Volkswagen Passat problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Volkswagen Passat, several common problems have been identified:
- Engine Oil Leaks: Another prevalent issue is engine oil leaks in Volkswagen Passat cars. These leaks often stem from components like camshaft chain tensioners and valve cover gaskets, leading to oil seepage and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly.
- Digital Display Faults: The digital display in the instrument cluster of Volkswagen Passat vehicles is prone to issues such as going dark or losing functionality after driving. This can affect the driver's ability to monitor critical information like speed, fuel levels, and warning lights.
- ABS Light Due to ABS Control Module Failure: A common problem reported by Passat owners is the illumination of the ABS light due to ABS control module failure. This issue can impact the vehicle's braking system, potentially compromising safety on the road.
- Rear Wheel Bearing Housing: Some Passat owners have experienced problems with the rear wheel bearing housing. Issues in this area can lead to noise, vibration, and compromised handling, affecting the overall driving experience and safety of the vehicle.
- Sunroof Trim Issues: Another common problem involves sunroof trim malfunctions. Problems with the sunroof trim can result in water leaks, wind noise, and even potential structural issues if not addressed in a timely manner.
These common problems with the Volkswagen Passat highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to any signs of trouble to ensure the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.
Are Volkswagen Passat cars reliable?
The VW Passat scores well in major reliability ratings with a 3.5 out of 5.0 from RepairPal and a 4.5 out of 5.0 from J.D. Power. Common Volkswagen Passat problems include issues with interior accessories, steering problems, and oil sludge problems.
What are the disadvantages of the Passat?
Some of the cons include:
- Price: The Passat can be more expensive than some other midsize sedans.
- Handling: While the Passat has a comfortable ride, it may not be as sporty as some other midsize sedans.
- Limited trunk space: Depending on the model, the Passat may have less trunk space than some other midsize sedans.
How many miles will a Passat last?
Most Volkswagen vehicles will last between 100,000 and 200,000 miles, although well-kept models can last even longer than that. All VWs are remarkably reliable vehicles. When it comes to longevity, the Golf, Passat, Jetta, and Beetle are known to be particularly long-lasting.
Which year is Passat best?
Best Used Volkswagen Passat Model Years
- 2007 Volkswagen Passat. The 2007 Volkswagen Passat may be slightly older, but Volkswagen vehicles are designed to last. ...
- 2017 Volkswagen Passat. ...
- 2021 Volkswagen Passat.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Volkswagen Passat years
We have researched Volkswagen problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Volkswagen Passat cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Volkswagen Passat model years:
- Volkswagen Passat 2013
- Volkswagen Passat 1999
- Volkswagen Passat 2002
- Volkswagen Passat 2003
- Volkswagen Passat 2006
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Volkswagen Passat model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Volkswagen Passat years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Volkswagen Passat car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Volkswagen Passat , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Volkswagen Passat vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Passat model years
A total of 230 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Passat model years
There were a total of 302 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Passat model years
There were a total of 248 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Passat model years
There were a total of 9 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 7838 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Volkswagen Passat . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Volkswagen Passat vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Volkswagen Passat 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: WVWMP7AN9AE
- Components: STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: I purchased a used vehicle but have found out the oxygen sensor is feeding false error codes to the main OBC causing leaks into driver compartment causing engine to stall while auto in motion and most importantly causing steering wheel to lock, have spoken with VWoA but they have no direct influence with VW or dealerships even if a warranty issue because all parties are independent contractors and all they are able to do is try and help. My name has not been transferred to registration because of smog requirements so you may call me [XXX] my telephone number is [XXX] my case# with VWoA is [XXX], I myself have learned to deal with defects but should this matter be more widespread which I cannot find out because the last case regarding the sensors was sealed in an agreement made by the California ARB, EPA and VW and Audi through a settlement signed in December 2021. Once again my hands are tied from taking much more action but I believe your department whether is able to enforce this matter or not should at least investigate and issue warnings to advise people of what can happen so if they can even at own cost seek appropriate repairs before more damages accrued. Also if this sensor is effecting more models and manufacturers an appropriate temporary fix should be seeker since no long term solutions are available at this time INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Volkswagen Passat 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- VIN: 1VWBP7A3XDC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Airbag light is on dashboard indicating system is not operating
Volkswagen Passat 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-08
- VIN: 1VWBS7A35GC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated that after the dealer had performed a fuel induction on the vehicle, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the catalytic convertor had failed and needed to be replaced; however, the part to do the repair was not available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 98,000.
Volkswagen Passat 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-06
- VIN: 1VWAT7A38GC
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: Air bag error light is on and steering wheel controls/horn are inoperable. Cause is most likely a clock spring failure as has been reported in numerous VW vehicle models including the 2016 VW Passat but the current recall 69L2 doesn’t appear to cover our vehicle. With recall problems on numerous other vehicles, it is hard to believe this isn’t caused by the same issue. Repair cost is estimated at $900 for an item that should be covered by VW.
Volkswagen Passat 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-06
- VIN: 1VWWA7A37LC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Oil pressure sensor fails. Causing high oil pressure. Causing the valve cover to be destroyed and the oil pan to leak. Draining the car oil.
Volkswagen Passat 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-03
- VIN: 1VWGT7A34HC
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Volkswagen Passat equipped with Michelin Tires, Tire Line: T1XX, Tire Size: 235/45/R18, DOT Number: B9ELT1XX. The contact stated that while the vehicle was in a parking lot, the contact became aware that the rear passenger’s side tire had three cracks approximately 3 inches in length on the side wall near the rim. The vehicle was taken to a tire dealer for inspection, and the tire dealer informed the contact that there was no issue with the integrity of the tire. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle failure mileage was 123,393. The tire failure mileage was 30,000.
Volkswagen Passat 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-30
- VIN: 1VWAT7A31FC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated that fuel was leaking from the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was taken to another local dealer, East Dallas Volkswagen (12635 Lyndon B. Johnson Fwy., Garland, TX 75041); where it was diagnosed that the fuel pump was leaking fuel and that the gasket and fuel pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
Volkswagen Passat 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-27
- VIN: 1VWBV7A34FC
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: This is the second car like this that I have had. Both had the same issues. when at highway speeds of 65 or greater the steering wheel will shake left and right. It is almost like there is a wheel that is not balanced. That is not the case, I have had the car in the shop 3 times now for this same issue. The last car I had(2015 VW Passat TDI) my son totaled it out in January. It also had the same issues but the dealer ship in Fort Wayne Indiana got it fixed and never really told me what was wrong with it other than they had to call the manufacturer to resolve the issue. The new car has been to the shop and I recorded what it was doing while driving for the technician to see and he put it back up on his lift the day after I got it back from them. he was able to replicate what it was doing for me on the road in the air and on his lift without the car moving. The steering wheel will shake from left to right and as speed picks up it becomes faster and more violent. I was told that I needed a new "Rack and Pinion". The dealership explained to me that the main steering gear is bad and since it is electronic the computer doesn't know where zero should be, thus causing the jerking of wheel from left to right as the computer is guessing and then over correcting. This information would have been more helpful upfront before I paid to have the car worked on chasing other issues that did not resolve the problem. So as of right now I am $1,700.00 in on this issue and being told that it's another $3,500.00 to fix said issue with no guarantee that it will actually be fixed. I asked what would happen if the gear actually broke and I was told to always wear my seatbelt and to keep both hands on the steering wheel. The faster you go the harder it shakes, when your at highway speeds and go to pass someone the car really shakes.
Volkswagen Passat 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-13
- VIN: 1VWCV7A38FC
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated while attempting to activate the defroster, the defroster failed to operate as needed. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the tubing of the heater core needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure reoccurred approximately 100 miles later. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 59,000.
Volkswagen Passat 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-09
- VIN: 1VWBV7A3XFC
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS
- Summary: I was driving the car as usual. I needed to make a u turn at a light where it was safe and legal to do so. I heard a clicking sound and I don’t know what happened. I can’t use anything on the steering wheel.
Volkswagen Passat 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-07
- VIN: 1VWAA7A3XJC
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Fuel pump Leak. Strong order of gasoline has been coming from the car. I had a check and the fuel pump is leaking. Other vehicles have been recalled due to this, but the Passat has not been included. This problem has been reported out in several cars including a fire….
Volkswagen Passat 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-06
- VIN: 1VWAP7A31EC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: My clockspring is broken. I called the dealership to see if the Warranty was done or if there was a recall, they said it was done. I don’t understand how it could have possibly been done when clockspring are not commonly broken. I am very upset I will be having to pay out of pocket for this.
Volkswagen Passat 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-30
- VIN: WVWDU73CX8E
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: My son bought this used car. The STOP ENGINE light came on, got an oil change but the light did not go away. Were told that the oil pressure might be the issue so took it to the mechanic. We were told it was most likely the oil pressure switch. There were multiple codes(cones) and were cleared. The switch was replaced but the engine light's still on & the STOP ENGINE comes on but goes off. It appears it is a gas pump issue that it might be manufacture fault. Is there a recall for this issue on this 2008 Passat? It's my [XXX] 's first car, he saved & bought it but it's dangerous...he got it diagnosed & was told it's a $5,000 job. If it's an oil/gas pump manufacturer issue, is Volkswagen responsible? INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Volkswagen Passat 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-28
- VIN: 1VWAP7A33EC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Driver side headlight showing as out, but not fixable by replacing bulb; wiring issue.
Volkswagen Passat 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-25
- VIN: 1VWAS7A33FC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Gas and Oil comsumption is way too high … Almost every 600-1000 the low oil lights turns on! Check engine on almost all the time due to an error with the oxígen sensor. EPC light gets on very frequently and the car loses speed. Also vehicle has a constant rattlesnake sound when speed is low. Issue was reported some years ago to a local VW dealership in Georgia but they never took care of the issue. Ongoing for a couple of years!. No additional details
Latest 5 recalls Volkswagen Passat
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 128 recalls for different components of the Volkswagen Passat.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Volkswagen Passat 2021
- Report Received Date: 2021-10-15
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Atlas, Atlas Cross Sport, and Passat vehicles. The front wheel bearing bolts may have been incorrectly tightened.
- Consequence: The bolts may loosen and cause a loss of control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the tightness of the wheel bearing bolts and replace the bolts, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 2, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 40R7.
- Model: Volkswagen Passat 2017
- Report Received Date: 2021-05-05
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2017 Touareg GP, Tiguan, Golf A6, E-Golf GP, CCF, 2016-2017 Passat GP, 2018-2019 Golf R GP, and 2018 Atlas vehicles. These internal-use vehicles were sold without confirmation that they were built to all applicable regulatory requirements and may have been modified prior to sale. As such, these vehicles may fail to comply with the requirements of various Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
- Consequence: Vehicles that do not meet all regulatory requirements may have an increased risk of injury, crash, or fire.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will repurchase the vehicles. Owner notification letters were mailed May 20, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 01F1.
- Model: Volkswagen Passat 2016
- Report Received Date: 2021-05-05
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2017 Touareg GP, Tiguan, Golf A6, E-Golf GP, CCF, 2016-2017 Passat GP, 2018-2019 Golf R GP, and 2018 Atlas vehicles. These internal-use vehicles were sold without confirmation that they were built to all applicable regulatory requirements and may have been modified prior to sale. As such, these vehicles may fail to comply with the requirements of various Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
- Consequence: Vehicles that do not meet all regulatory requirements may have an increased risk of injury, crash, or fire.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will repurchase the vehicles. Owner notification letters were mailed May 20, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 01F1.
- Model: Volkswagen Passat 2016
- Report Received Date: 2020-09-16
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Volkswagen Golf R and Atlas, 2017 Golf Alltrack and E-Golf and 2016-2018 Passat vehicles. These internal use vehicles were sold without confirmation that they were built to all applicable regulatory requirements and may have been modified prior to sale. As such, these vehicles may fail to comply with the requirements of various Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
- Consequence: Vehicles that do not meet all regulatory requirements may have an increased risk of a crash or injury to vehicle occupants.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners and will repurchase the vehicles. The recall began October 6, 2020. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 01E9.
- Model: Volkswagen Passat 2018
- Report Received Date: 2020-09-16
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Volkswagen Golf R and Atlas, 2017 Golf Alltrack and E-Golf and 2016-2018 Passat vehicles. These internal use vehicles were sold without confirmation that they were built to all applicable regulatory requirements and may have been modified prior to sale. As such, these vehicles may fail to comply with the requirements of various Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
- Consequence: Vehicles that do not meet all regulatory requirements may have an increased risk of a crash or injury to vehicle occupants.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners and will repurchase the vehicles. The recall began October 6, 2020. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 01E9.
Latest negative Volkswagen Passat car reviews
Latest positive Volkswagen Passat car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2022
I was a bit hesitant about purchasing a car based on an older platform, but the refreshed R-Line caught my eye and I decided to take it for a test drive. To my surprise, it handled like a dream and was a welcome change from my previous SUV. The suspension did a great job of smoothing out the potholes on Ohio's roads, and the driver assistance features were helpful without being intrusive. The interior is spacious and practical, with plenty of legroom and the ability to fit longer items in the back with the seats down. Overall, the value and style of the VW R-Line are unbeatable, especially with the great incentives currently available. While some reviews mention occasional slow upshifting, I have not found it to be a significant issue. Additionally, while some may find the interior dated, I appreciate the simplicity and layout. This car is perfect for road trips and has great style to boot!
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Vehicle year: 2014
As a long-time Volkswagen owner, I have come to appreciate the firm ride, tight cornering, and comfortable seats that the brand offers. My experience with Volkswagen has been overwhelmingly positive, and I make sure to stay on top of key maintenance issues as recommended by my independent VW mechanic. Successful ownership of a Volkswagen requires using synthetic oil, Top Tier gas brands, and ethanol-free fuel if you are truly committed. The Passat 1.8 TSI engine, paired with the smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission, is an impressive combination. Despite my initial belief that I would never settle for anything less than a V6 engine, the 1.8 TSI engine's ability to hit peak torque at very low RPMs won me over. This engine delivers brisk acceleration and excellent gas mileage. I particularly enjoy the option to manually shift and the sport mode, which provide extra driver engagement. In suburban driving, I average around 28 MPG, and on an 800-mile freeway trip with cruise set between 70 and 80 MPH, I achieved as high as 39 MPG. One observation is that at 45 miles per hour, the transmission goes into 6th gear, taking the engine down to 1200 RPM. This low engine speed can cause the engine to lug, but I generally do not worry about it. An option to avoid the lugging is to run in sport mode if you are spending a good deal of time at 45 MPH. I love the subtle look of the spacious interior, and while I find the classy exterior a little boring, I am not the type who craves extra attention. The Wolfsburg addition is the second least equipped version of the Passat, but it has all the modern essentials, including heated faux leather driver and passenger seats (power seat for the driver) and steering wheel controls for the radio. I particularly love Volkswagen's trip computer system. Those who desire more electronic engagement in their cars may find the radio system inadequate, at least in the Wolfsburg addition.Stepping up to the SE level solves some of the shortcomings with the electronics, such as having a navigation option and backup camera. If I had been able to find a nice deal on an SE, I would have definitely stepped up to the next level. Additionally, I noticed that the Hankook tires that came from the factory are not the best option. However, I expect that when I switch to my preferred brand (Toyo), the ride, handling, and cabin noise will be even better.
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Vehicle year: 2008
I recently acquired a CPO Passat and I am thrilled with my purchase. The interior layout is one of the best I have ever seen, very logical. The driver's seat is extremely comfortable, I could drive in this car for hours. With the many possible seat adjustments and the telescoping wheel, it is possible to get the perfect seat position. I just wish it had a seat memory so that when other family members adjust the seats, I could easily return to my preference. I am very pleased with the gas mileage, and with an 18-gallon tank, you can drive for a long time between fill-ups. The performance is excellent, especially for a 4-cylinder engine.
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Vehicle year: 1992
I've been driving this car for less than a year, and it's been an absolute joy. I have the 5-speed version and I highly recommend that everyone learn how to drive a manual transmission. Although I've had a few minor maintenance issues with the car, they were nothing serious, especially considering the car has over 280,000 KM on it. The engine still has excellent compression.
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Vehicle year: 1997
Yes, it sounds like there are some hardware issues such as door latches, power window alignment, and an ignition keyswitch recall. However, despite these challenges, I absolutely love this car! As an engineer and tinkerer, I even own the Bentley repair manual and don't mind pulling the door panel off. With 179000 miles and counting, we'll be growing old together. I've found that driving this car hard actually prevents smoking - the computer craves it!
Are you having problems with your Volkswagen Passat?
Doris Zieme 2025-11-12
Vehicle year: 2018
I leased a 2015 Passat Limited and later upgraded to a 2018 RLine Passat. Looking back, I wish I had kept the 2015 instead of leasing the Rline 2018. The 2015 Limited had Push Button Start and an analog clock which I really liked. Unfortunately, I had to pay more for the 2018 and it didn't come with push button start or a clock. Although I did get 18 inch wheels and low profile performance tires that are nice from a handling standpoint, they do reduce gas mileage. The ride in the 2015 was softer and more comfortable than the 2018. I hit a raised manhole cover and lost one of the low profile tires, but I did like the new radio and Android Auto is great. I released the car because I thought that I would buy it at the end of the lease because of the 6 year warranty. However, the engine in this car seems to have less power and is loud and unrefined compared to the 1.8 in the 2015. It sounds like it is working too hard for too little power. VW changed the trim levels in 2019 which are a better value for what I would want (higher profile tires available and push button start in the Wolfsburg trim). Although I was impressed with the old 1.8, the 2.0 is just a dog. Maybe there is something wrong with mine. I thought the round dial Climate Controls were easier to use in the 2015 than the push button ones in the 2018. The Passat's old design does the job for a car that you can run around town. Also, it is nice to have a car you do not have to lock when you go to the store. It is so plain Jane and no one seems to notice that even thieves walk past it and steal a Camry instead. As I mentioned earlier, the warranty is the big selling point for the car, not the car itself.
Alfonzo McGlynn 2025-11-12
Vehicle year: 1995
I purchased my 1995 Passat Wagon GLX in June of 2002 for $6000 when it had 100K miles on it. Unfortunately, soon after buying the car, the automatic transmission started to fail. The dealer quoted me $5600 to fix the transmission, and it has been difficult to find another transmission repair shop that will work on the car. Additionally, I need to fix the struts which will cost around $1000 and the trunk latch which will cost $400. According to my research, this car is more expensive to repair than a BMW, and the cost of maintaining it exceeds its value. It might not be the best choice for someone looking for a reliable car.
Godfrey Effertz 2025-11-11
Vehicle year: 2003
This Volkswagen car has had several issues, including multiple water pump and vacuum system failures, sludge in the motor, expensive parts, turbocharger failure, and broken antenna and seatbelt buckle. However, I have invested a significant amount in repairs. It is important to consider these factors before purchasing a Volkswagen.
Orin Hirthe 2025-11-10
Vehicle year: 1993
none
Alessandro Bahringer 2025-11-06
Vehicle year: 2000
After two weeks of purchasing the car, we noticed a strong smell of oil. It took the dealer two weeks to fix all the leaks, and they had to redo the top half of the motor. We later found out that these repairs had already been made once before in just 40,000 miles, but luckily, they were all covered under warranty. The car also required a new air sensor, two new air pumps, new a/c hoses, and new rotors. Unfortunately, both front blinker assemblies fell out while driving the car, within eight months of each other. According to the parts man at the VW dealer, this is a common issue. All of these problems occurred within just 50,000 miles. Currently, the car requires over $1,000 in preventative maintenance. What are your thoughts?