2009 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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Common 2009 Volkswagen Passat problems
The Volkswagen Passat 2009 is known for several common problems based on complaints from owners of this car. One of the most prevalent issues is related to the engine, specifically the 2009 Volkswagen Passat engine problems.
Another common problem with the Volkswagen Passat 2009 is engine misfires. This issue can occur in the mid-2000s models, including the 2009 model. Engine misfires can be caused by various factors, such as worn-out spark plugs, faulty ignition coils, or damaged fuel injectors. These issues can lead to a decrease in engine performance, poor fuel efficiency, and increased emissions.
The 2009 Volkswagen Passat also has a tendency to leak oil from the engine. This issue can cause the engine to run low on oil, leading to engine damage if not addressed promptly. The average cost to fix this issue is around $4,100, and it typically occurs at around 84,000 miles.
The digital display in the instrument cluster of the 2009 Volkswagen Passat is also known to go dark or lose its ability after driving. This issue can be frustrating for drivers, as it can make it difficult to see important information such as speed, fuel level, and engine temperature. The cost to fix this issue can vary depending on the severity of the problem, but it can be expensive if the entire instrument cluster needs to be replaced.
In summary, the Volkswagen Passat 2009 has several common problems related to the engine, including oil sludge resulting in engine failure, engine misfires, and oil leaks. The digital display in the instrument cluster is also known to have issues. These problems can be expensive to fix and can lead to significant engine damage if not addressed promptly. It is essential to be aware of these issues and to have them addressed by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
Is VW Passat 2009 a good car?
Driving. Although the 2009 Volkswagen Passat is tuned more for comfort than for attacking corners, its well-sorted chassis imbues it with a confident feel and the steering is light but accurate. Thanks to its German bloodlines, the Passat feels unflappable at higher velocities.
What is the most common problem with Volkswagen Passat?
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.
How many miles can a 2009 Volkswagen Passat last?
VW engines are known to be well built and if maintained well, such as oil changes every 3–6k miles, car alignment, tire rotation, oil filter change, engine flushes, etc. it can run well into the 200k miles and more.
Is a Volkswagen Passat a good reliable car?
Is a used Volkswagen Passat saloon reliable? The Passat got a good score of 96.4% in the executive car class in our most recent reliability survey, and came in fifth place out of 26 cars.
Is VW Passat 2009 a good car?
Driving. Although the 2009 Volkswagen Passat is tuned more for comfort than for attacking corners, its well-sorted chassis imbues it with a confident feel and the steering is light but accurate. Thanks to its German bloodlines, the Passat feels unflappable at higher velocities.
What is the common problem in VW Passat?
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.
Is Volkswagen Passat high maintenance?
The 2021 Passat and Arteon have lower maintenance costs than similar midsize sedans by Toyota, Honda, or Hyundai. The 2021 Atlas Cross Sport has the lowest maintenance costs of the midsize SUV category. The 2021 Tiguan has lower maintenance costs than other compact SUVs by Honda, Toyota, and Subaru.
How many miles can a 2009 Volkswagen Passat last?
VW engines are known to be well built and if maintained well, such as oil changes every 3–6k miles, car alignment, tire rotation, oil filter change, engine flushes, etc. it can run well into the 200k miles and more.
2009 Volkswagen Passat car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volkswagen Passat problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Steering problems
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2009 Volkswagen Passat vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2009 Volkswagen Passat
The NHTSA has received 149 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2009 Volkswagen Passat. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2009 Volkswagen Passat vehicles.
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-27
- VIN: WVWJK73C99P
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The power steering system failed. At first I thought the steering wheel was locked. I started the car and could not turn the wheel. The power steering light illuminated in red and there was a loud beeping sound when the car is turned on. It was not until the car was towed that I realized that the wheel was not locked. The tow truck driver was able to turn the wheel to steer the vehicle on to the truck bed. I had someone plug in a diagnostic machine. I do not recall the exact code but he said the power steering system was not getting a signal. He replaced the steering angle sensor but that did not fix the issue. I had passenger at the time and was concerned for my safety. Luckily, the system failed while the car was parked, but we were left stranded. I have come across the following information on the Kelley Blue Book website: Steering: gear box (other than rack and pinion) NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID: 08V577000 Report Date: Oct 31 2008 Vehicles Affected: 130 Consequence: DRIVER ATTEMPTS TO OVERCOME THE SYSTEM DURING MALFUNCTION WILL CAUSE (1) VIBRATIONS IN THE STEERING WHEEL; (2) THE STEERING SYSTEM MOTOR TO TURN OFF; (3) THE RED STEERING SYSTEM MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT TO ILLUMINATE; AND (4) AUDIBLE WARNINGS TO CHIME. A MALFUNCTIONING STEERING SYSTEM COULD LEAD TO A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING. What You Should Do: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE STEERING GEAR IN THE AFFECTED VEHICLES. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT DECEMBER 5, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VW AT 1-800-4822-8987. Summary: VW IS RECALLING 130 2009 PASSAT, PASSAT WAGON, AND PASSAT CC VEHICLES. SOME VEHICLES MAY HAVE AN ELECTROMECHANICAL STEERING GEAR CONTROL UNIT THAT CAN MALFUNCTION DUE TO A DAMAGED CAPACITOR. IF THIS MALFUNCTION OCCURS, THE DRIVER'S STEERING INPUT IS NOT PROPERLY PROCESSED BY THE SYSTEM AND THE VEHICLE MAY NOT RESPOND AS THE DRIVER INTENDS. THIS DEFECT CAN ONLY OCCUR IMMEDIATELY AFTER VEHICLE START-UP WHEN THE STEERING WHEEL IS MOVED FOR THE FIRST TIME AND AT SPEEDS LESS THAN 5 MPH.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-01
- VIN: wvwml73c59e
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The abs sensors are not functioning although they have been replaced. The dashboard has multiple failure lights. The vehicle is a VW CC not covered by the ABS recall although it exhibits identical issues.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-22
- VIN: Wvwml73c99e
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I put fuel in the car and about to start the car and it won’t start. Lights flickering.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-16
- VIN: WVWXK93C59E
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The power steering system fails when the engine/engine compartment gets hot. The problem has appeared after the car has been shut down (such as when refueling or a quick run into a store) and then restarted. When the key is pushed in to start the car, there is a loud grinding noise, a visible shimmy of the steering wheel, followed by the red steering wheel icon indicating there is a problem and 3 chimes. The steering wheel is locked in position with very limited turning ability and ability to control the direction of the car.
SEAT BELTS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-01
- VIN: WVWNL73C59E
- Components: SEAT BELTS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: 2009 VW CC PULLING OUT INTO CROSS TRAFFIC THE ELECTRIC CONTROLLED PARKING BRAKE LOCKS UP. I HAVE HAD THIS HAPPEN SEVERAL TIMES NOW. I REFUSE TO SELL THE CAR LIKE IT IS OR LET ANYONE DRIVE IT. IT APPEARS TO BE RELATED TO THE SEATBELT. IF IT HAPPENS I UNDO MY SEATBELT AND REINSERT IT TO GET IT TO WORK AGAIN. IT SEEMS LIKE IT'S NOT PROGRAMMED TO BE A FAIL SAFE SYSTEM. [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-06
- VIN: WVWEU73C09E
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: ENGINE STALLED WHILE DRIVING. I BELIEVE MY VEHICLE SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN NHTSA RECALL NO. : 17V-509 MANUFACTURER RECALL NO. : 20AE
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-15
- VIN: WVWEU73C09E
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: FUEL PUMP HAS GONE OUT. VOLKSWAGEN INDICATES MY PARTICULAR CAR DOESN'T QUALIFY UNDER THE RECALL FOR THE RECALL REPORT 17V-509. THIS IS AN OBVIOUS ISSUE WITH THE 2009 PASSAT.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-04-15
- VIN: WVWGU73C79E
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: I GOT 09 4 MOTION CC 3.6. I HAD READ SPENT CLOSE TO 6G AND NOBODY CAN FIX THE ACCELERATION WHEN START. VERY FRUSTRATED CHANGE CATALYTIC CONVERTERS CHANGE OTHER THINGS I BAD. *TR
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-03-02
- VIN: WVWJK73C39P
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: LOUD SOUND WHEN VEHICLE IS IN IDLE. TOOK IT TO LOCAL MECHANIC AND THEY ARE SAYING IT NEEDS A TIMING CHAIN REPLACEMENT BECAUSE IT SKIPS.
AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-05
- VIN: WVWJK93C29P
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: RECALL UPDATE: CURRENTLY, INTAKE MANIFOLD NEEDS TO BE REPAIRED-ENGINE LIGHT ON-COST $1400.00. TOOK CAR TO DEALERSHIP FOR FUEL PUMP WAS TOLD IT WAS REPLACED BUT WOULD NOT GIVE EVIDENCE THAT IT WAS. SIDE FRONTAL AIR BAG NEVER REPLACED-WAS TOLD BY DEALERSHIP DID NOT NEED IT.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-28
- VIN: WVWHL73C69E
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: THE CAR HAS STALLED MULTIPLE TIMES WHILE DRIVING. LIGHTS POP ON AND THE FUEL PUMP IS THE ERROR CODE, ALONG WITH MISFIRES. I HAVE HAD AT LEAST A DOZEN OR MORE CLOSE CALLS WITH THE STALL OUT AND FAILURE TO START UP, AND AT LEAST 2-3 TIMES I HAVE ALMOST BEEN SERIOUSLY INJURED OR KILLED DUE TO THE STALL OUT. IT STALLS WHEN ITS IN MOTION OR EVEN WHEN IT IS PARKED AND IS STARTING UP.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-11
- VIN: WVWML73C59E
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: THE VEHICLE HAS ISSUES WITH THE FUEL PUMP , INTAKE & CYLINDERS . I WAS ABLE TO CHANGE THE FUEL PUMP BUT NOTICED ONLINE THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN RECALLED FOR THESE SAME ISSUES . WHEN TURNING THE CAR ON AND DRIVING IT TURNS OFF AND HARDENING THE STEERING WHEEL
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-06-01
- VIN: WVWJK73C29P
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. UPON PURCHASING THE VEHICLE USED, THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO VOLKSWAGEN OF ORANGE PARK (7220 BLANDING BLVD, JACKSONVILLE, FL 32244 (855) 758-7110) WHERE SHE WAS INFORMED THAT SHE WOULD HAVE TO PAY $100 TO HAVE THE INDICATOR TURNED OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED AND ADVISED THE CONTACT TO FILE A COMPLAINT WITH NHTSA. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-12
- VIN: WVWML73C59E
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: FUEL PUMP CRACKED, AND PLACEMENT OF PUMP CAUSED GASOLINE TO POOL UNDERNEATH BACK SEAT INSIDE THE CAR, RIGHT UNDER WHERE MY 4 YEAR OLDS CAR SEAT IS. TECH STARTED WE ARE EXTREMELY LUCKY THAT IT DIDNT CATCH ON FIRE, BECAUSE IT WAS BASICALLY A BOMB DIRECTLY UNDERNEATH HIM THAT COULD HAVE GONE OFF ANYTIME THE CAR WAS TURNED ON OR RUNNING. ONLY FOUND OUT ABOUT IT WHEN I TOOK IT TO GET THE FUEL PUMP MODULE REPLACED, AND ONLY FOUND OUT ABOUT THAT RECALL WHEN THE CAR STARTED STALLING OUT WHILE DRIVING. IT IS NOW AT VOLKSWAGEN OF MACON WAITING ON PARTS FOR A $1,000 REPAIR. WE ARE GOING TO GET RID OF THE CAR BECAUSE WE ARE NOT PUTTING MY SON BACK IN A CAR WHERE THAT IS EVEN POSSIBLE.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-05
- VIN: WVWHL73C49E
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: BOUGHT THIS AT A USED CAR DEALERSHIP. WITHIN TWO DAYS, THE EPC LIGHT WAS COMING ON. WHEN DRIVING THE CAR OR WHEN STARTING TO PUSH THE GAS PEDAL, THE GAS PEDAL HAS NO RESPONSE. IT'S AS IF THE PEDAL IS NOT WORKING. WE TOOK IT BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP AND HAD THEIR MECHANIC LOOK AT IT. THEY SAID IT WAS A SENSOR. SAID THEY FIXED IT. WITHIN A WEEK, THE EPC LIGHT CAME ON AGAIN. THIS TIME, SAID IT WAS THE THROTTLE BODY. THEY SAID THEY FIXED IT BUT WITHIN ABOUT 3 WEEKS, THE PEDAL ISSUE HAPPENED AGAIN. LUCKILY, WE HAVE STAYED ON LOCAL ROADS 40 MPH MAX BUT WHEN THE CAR DOESN'T GO WHEN IT IS SUPPOSED TO, I'M EXPECTING TO GET REARENDED. WE BROUGHT THIS TO OUR MECHANIC AND $1700 LATER, THE CAR IS STILL DOING THE SAME THING. THE EPC LIGHT IS ON AND THE CAR IS NOT GOING WHEN YOU PRESS THE GAS PEDAL. THE CPU HAS BEEN SWITCHED OUT AND THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL HAS BEEN REPLACED. HOW MUCH MONEY DO WE DUMP IN THIS? THIS SEEMS TO BE A COMMON ISSUE FROM WHAT I AM READING ON THE INTERNET.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-08-30
- VIN: WVWHL73CX9E
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONSUMER OWNS A 2009 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. THE CONSUMER STATED THAT THE ENGINE INTAKE MANIFOLD FAILED AND CAUSED THE VEHICLE NOT TO ACCELERATE IN A TIMELY MANNER. THE CONSUMER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED THE STATE INSPECTION DUE TO THE INTAKE MANIFOLD FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE INTAKE MANIFOLD SYSTEM REPAIR. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 115,000. *BF *AS
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-07-02
- VIN: WVWJK73C09P
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: MY VW PASSAT 2009 SUSTAINED ENGINE FAILURE DUE TO FAILURE TIMING CHAIN/TIMING CHAIN TENSIONER AND NOW NEEDS VERY EXPENSIVE ENGINE REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT OF ENGINE. CAR DROVE OKAY FOR 15 MINUTES IN THE MORNING THEN IT WAS THEN PARKED FOR ABOUT 2 HOURS. WHEN TRYING TO RE-START THE CAR, THE CAR WOULD NOT START. MECHANIC NOTED ABSENT COMPRESSION IN 2 CYLINDERS AND DIAGNOSED IT TO BE DUE TO TIMING CHAIN SLIPPING. THIS HAPPENED AT 80,000MILES AND LESS THAN 10 YEARS (9 YEARS 9 MONTHS) OF PURCHASE OF THE VEHICLE. VW'S EXTENDED WARRANTY COVERS REPAIR/REPLACEMENT OF TIMING CHAIN BUT DOES NOT COVER REPAIR OF ENGINE DAMAGE RESULTED DUE TO TIMING CHAIN FAILURE. THE CAR WAS SERVICED AT VW DEALER REGULARLY AND THERE WAS NO WARNING OR INDICATION OF IMPENDING FAILURE OF THE TIMING CHAIN. OTHER OWNERS OF VW VEHICLES HAVE ALSO COMPLAINED OF HAVING IDENTICAL PROBLEMS ON ONLINE COMMUNITY WITH SOME PEOPLE COMPLAINING OF ENGINE STALLING WHILE DRIVING. THIS APPEARS TO BE A DEFECTIVE DESIGN RATHER THAN WEAR AND TEAR DUE AGEING AND I FEEL THAT VW SHOULD RECALL THE AFFECTED VEHICLES TO REPAIR THE PROBLEMS.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-31
- VIN: WVWGU73C39E
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: MY STEERING WILL LOCK UP AND FAIL, BUT THEN AFTER I RESTART THE CAR A COUPLE TIMES IT WORKS AGAIN. THEN IT FAILS WITHOUT WARNING. I GET THE AUDITORY ALERT AS WELL AS A SOLID RED STEERING WHEEL ON THE DASH. THERE IS A RECALL ON 130 OF THIS EXACT CAR, BUT WHEN I DO A VIN SEARCH IT IS NOT INCLUDED. THE CURRENT RECALL NUMBER IS 08V577000, AND I WANT TO KNOW ABOUT GETTING MY VIN INCLUDED SINCE ITS THE SAME FAILURE. IT HAS ALREADY BEEN TO THE SHOP 3 TIMES TO BE CORRECTED, BUT ONLY IN THE STEERING WHEEL, NOT IN THE STEERING BOX AS INDICATED ON THE RECALL. MY WIFE WAS DRIVING IT WHEN IT FAILED, BUT WAS IN HER PATIENTS NEIGHBORHOOD WHEN IT LOST POWER STEERING (LIKELY WITHIN THE 5 MPH SPEED FOR IT TO FAIL).
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-20
- VIN: WVWJK73C59P
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHEN PARKED OR WHILE DRIVING THE STEERING COLUMN LOCKS UP CAUSING THE CAR TO LOSE THE ABILITY TO STEER OR WILL AUTOMATICALLY SHUT THE CAR OFF WHILE IN TRAFFIC!! THERE HAVE BEEN SEVERAL ON LINE COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS SAME ISSUE AND VOLKSWAGEN REFUSES TO ACKNOWLEDGE THIS FAULTY PART WHICH NOT ONLY ENDANGERS THE DRIVER AND PASSENGERS BUT EVERYONE OUT ON THE ROAD IN THE CAR'S PATH. I HAVE UPLOADED THE OTHER COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS VERY DANGEROUS ISSUE.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-04-19
- Fire: 1
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: I WANTED TO FOLLOW-UP AND DISCUSS A RECENT INCIDENT. ON APRIL 19TH 2019 OUR 2009 VW PASSAT WAS IN OUR GARAGE AS THIS IS THE USUAL LOCATION WE PARK OUR CARS. ON THE 18TH WE COMPLETED YARD WORK AND NOTHING OUT OF THE NORM WAS NOTED AS WE COMPLETED THE YARD WORK AT AROUND 8PM AND NOTHING WAS NOTED TO BE ABNORMAL. AROUND 4 AM ON THE 19TH MY SPOUSE AND I WERE AWOKEN TO A LOUD POP SOUND. THIS SOUND WAS UNUSUAL TO US. SHORTLY AFTER THE POP SOUND THERE PANIC ALARM COULD BE HEARD THAT WANED OUT IN ABOUT 30 SECONDS. MY HUSBAND WENT TO THE GARAGE AND WAS MET WITH BLACK AND PRESSURE LIKE FORCE AGAINST THE GARAGE DOOR. WE IMMEDIATELY EVACUATED THE HOME AND CALLED THE FIRE DEPARTMENT. AT THE TIME WERE NOT SURE WHAT CAUSED THE SMOKE BUT ONCE THE FIRE FIGHTERS ARRIVED WERE TOLD THE VW PASSAT WAS ON FIRE. THE FIRE MARSHALL REPORTED TO US THAT IT WAS POSSIBLY ELECTRICAL IN NATURE. I WANTED TO TOUCH BASED WITH VW PERTAINING THIS MATTER IN AN EFFORT TO SAVE OTHERS LIVES. OUR GARAGE HAS BEEN DAMAGED AS WELL AS THE VW ATLAS WAS DAMAGE FROM THE FIRE. MY CONCERN IS THAT THE OUTCOME COULD HAVE BEEN FAR WORSE. MY VW PASSAT HAD WAS DRIVEN THE DAY OF THE 18TH WITH NO CONCERNS. I AM CONCERNED THAT ANOTHER PERSON COULD BE GRAVELY HARMED IF THIS ISSUE IS NOT ADDRESSED. I AM A VW CUSTOMER THAT ENJOYS THE OVERALL PRODUCT AND WISH EXCELLENCE AND QUALITY FOR THE PRODUCT. IF YOU NEED TO CONTACT ME FOR FURTHER INQUIRY PLEASE CALL (XXXXXX) PARTS OF THIS DOCUMENT HAVE BEEN REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-02-15
- VIN: WVWJK73C49P
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: SINCE I BOUGHT MY CAR WITH 75000 MI ON IT 3 YEARS AGO, WHEN I PUT THE KEY IN THE IGNITION AND START IT THE CAR SHUTS DOWN AND TELLS ME STEERING CONTROL LOCK MALFUNCTION. SOMEONE HAD TOLD ME TO CHANGE THE BATTERY, I DID SO AND THE PROBLEM STILL PERSISTS. IT IS DUE TO A FAULTY IMMOBILIZER KEY. SOMETIMES THE CAR WON'T EVEN START, AND SOMETIMES IT DIRECTS ME TO TAKE IT TO THE WORKSHOP. I HAVE SPOKEN TO VOLKSWAGEN A NUMBER OF TIMES ABOUT THIS ISSUE, BECAUSE IT WAS A RECALL FOR THE 2008 MODEL OF MY CAR, BUT THEY INSIST THAT 2009 DIDN'T HAVE THE PROBLEM. I KNOW FROM SPEAKING WITH OTHERS THAT HAVE THE SAME YEAR MAKE AND MODEL THAT I AM NOT EXPERIENCING AN ISOLATED INCIDENT. JUST AS A NUMBER OF OTHER PROBLEMS VW NEEDS TO OWN UP TO IT'S MISTAKES AND OFFER A RESOLUTION TO THIS PROBLEM. EVEN IF IT IS CHANGING THE IGNITION SYSTEM TO A REGULAR TURN STYLE KEY.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-22
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TIMING BELT TENSIONER FAILURE. ENGINE REQUIRES MAJOR REPAIRS
STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-20
- VIN: WVWJK73C89P
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: THE STEERING WHEEL LOCK WAS DEFECTIVE ON MY 2009 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. THE VEHICLE HAD LESS THAN 35000 MILES ON IT. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE. THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED UP ON SEVERAL DIFFERENT OCCASIONS WHILE I WAS TRYING TO TAKE THE VEHICLE OUT OF THE GARAGE. THE STEERING WHEEL LOCK ALSO CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO STALL. IN ADDITION, IT COULD CAUSE THE VEHICLE TO SHAKE WHILE IT IS BEING DRIVEN. VOLKSWAGEN USA ADMITTED THAT THIS PART IS AN ISSUE. THEY ISSUED SEVERAL TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETINS ABOUT THE STEERING WHEEL COLUMN LOCK. SEVERAL OTHER MAKES AND MODELS OF VOLKSWAGENS WERE RECALLED AS A RESULT OF THIS ISSUE. I AM SEEKING JUDGEMENT FROM VOLKSWAGEN IN THE AMOUNT OF $588.91, WHICH IS THE COST OF REPAIR. VOLKSWAGEN REFUSES TO PAY FOR THE SAFETY ISSUE BECAUSE THE CAR ONLY HAD A 3 YR WARRANTY. I WILL NEVER PURCHASE ANOTHER VOLKSWAGEN EVER. THEY ARE NOT WILLING TO WORK WITH THE CONSUMER. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN REPAIRED BY A VOLKSWAGEN DEALER ON 12/28/2018.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-16
- VIN: WVWJK73C89P
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: MY CAR HAS LESS THAN 35000 MILES. THE STEERING WHEEL COLUMN LOCK IS DEFECTIVE HAS BEEN APPEARING ON MY INSTRUMENT PANEL. THIS DEFECTIVE PART WILL NOT ALLOW THE CAR TO START AT TIME. FURTHER INVESTIGATION REVEALED THAT IT COULD CAUSE THE CAR TO STALL WHILE IT IS BEING DRIVEN. A SEARCH OF THE INTERNET REVEALED THAT THIS IS A FREQUENT PROBLEM WITH THIS MAKE AND MODEL OF THE CAR. IT IS A SAFETY ISSUE WHICH IS NOT CAUSED BY NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR. VOLKSWAGEN REFUSES TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE AT NO CHARGE FOR A KNOWN SAFETY ISSUE. I WANT VOLKSWAGEN HELD RESPONSIBLE. IF THE VEHICLE STALLS WHILE IN MOTION, I WILL FILE A LAWSUIT. I WANT TO GIVE YOUR COMPANY THE OPPORTUNITY TO RESOLVE IT FIRST.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-17
- VIN: WVWJK73C99P
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I AM WRITING TO YOUR ORGANIZATION BECAUSE OF THE INJUSTICE I EXPERIENCED WITH A RECALL AT VOLKSWAGEN. A COUPLE OF YEARS AGO I HAD SOME ISSUES WITH MY PASSAT AND TOOK IT TO THE DEALER. DEALERS DOING WHAT DEALER'S GAUGED ME FOR WHATEVER THEY COULD. THIS YEAR, HOWEVER, VOLKSWAGEN CAME OUT WITH RECALL FOR THE PART WHICH I REPLACED TWO YEARS AGO. THEY PAID ME PARTIALLY FOR MY OUR OF POCKET EXPENSES BUT MY ARGUMENT TO THEM WAS THAT I WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN AT THE DEALER TO BE TAKEN ADVANTAGE OF IF NOT FOR THE RECALL. I INITIALLY REQUESTED THAT THEY REFUND FULL LABOR AND ONE OF THE PARTS. BUT COME TO THINK OF IT BOTH PARTS ARE RELATED TO THE FUEL SYSTEM AND NOW I WOULD LIKE A COMPLETE REFUND.
2009 Volkswagen Passat recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2009 Volkswagen Passat.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2009-2014 Volkswagen CC, 2010-2014 Golf, 2010-2014 Eos, 2007-2010 Passat Sedan and Wagon, and 2012-2014 Passat vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to explode.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could explode with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflator with an alternative inflator, free of charge. The recall began March 16, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69Q9. Note: This recall partially supersedes recall 16V-078.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2009-2016 Volkswagen CC, 2006-2010 Passat and Passat Wagon vehicles. Interruption of electrical power to the fuel pump control module may cause the fuel pump to fail.
- Consequence: If the fuel pump fails, the engine will stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump control module, free of charge. The recall began June 26, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 20AE.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2010-2014 Golf, 2007-2010 Passat sedans and wagon, 2012-2014 Passat sedan and Eos, 2009-2014 CC, 2009-2012 Audi Q5, 2010-2012 S5 Cabriolet and 2010-2012 Audi A5 Cabriolet vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflators, free of charge. Volkswagen issued an interim notification to owners on April 12, 2016, and will send a second notification when parts are available. Volkswagen will notify owners again once parts are available. Volkswagen owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Audi owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC
- Components: STEERING:GEAR BOX (OTHER THAN RACK AND PINION)
- Summary: VW IS RECALLING 130 MY 2009 PASSAT, PASSAT WAGON, AND PASSAT CC VEHICLES. SOME VEHICLES MAY HAVE AN ELECTROMECHANICAL STEERING GEAR CONTROL UNIT THAT CAN MALFUNCTION DUE TO A DAMAGED CAPACITOR. IF THIS MALFUNCTION OCCURS, THE DRIVER'S STEERING INPUT IS NOT PROPERLY PROCESSED BY THE SYSTEM AND THE VEHICLE MAY NOT RESPOND AS THE DRIVER INTENDS. THIS DEFECT CAN ONLY OCCUR IMMEDIATELY AFTER VEHICLE START-UP WHEN THE STEERING WHEEL IS MOVED FOR THE FIRST TIME AND AT SPEEDS LESS THAN 5 MPH.
- Consequence: DRIVER ATTEMPTS TO OVERCOME THE SYSTEM DURING MALFUNCTION WILL CAUSE (1) VIBRATIONS IN THE STEERING WHEEL; (2) THE STEERING SYSTEM MOTOR TO TURN OFF; (3) THE RED STEERING SYSTEM MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT TO ILLUMINATE; AND (4) AUDIBLE WARNINGS TO CHIME. A MALFUNCTIONING STEERING SYSTEM COULD LEAD TO A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE STEERING GEAR IN THE AFFECTED VEHICLES. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 5, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VW AT 1-800-822-8987.
Negative 2009 Volkswagen Passat car reviews
Positive 2009 Volkswagen Passat car reviews
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I'm thrilled to share that this is my 3rd generation Passat and my 5th VW car in the last 25 years! While I've also owned recent models of Nissan Maxima, Toyota Camry, and Honda Accord, I have to say that the Passat is the most sensible combination of performance, comfort, and value. You get Audi engineering (on par with BMW and Mercedes) at a discount price. Plus, the gas mileage (34-35 miles/gallon) is better than that of my Toyota Camry 2005 (XLE 4). And, so far, the reliability has been better than my Camry 2005. I highly recommend the Passat to anyone looking for a reliable and high-performing car!
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The Passat Komfort Wagon is a great car that offers a perfect balance of design, performance, comfort, and safety. We recently traded down from an 04 Touareg, and we are very happy with the fit and finish of this vehicle. The only downside is the powerplant. Although it is peppy and enjoyable on the highway (especially when passing), there is significant turbo lag, especially compared to our other driver, a Saab 9-3 with the same size 2.0 L turbo-charged engine. Additionally, the mileage is not nearly as good as the Saab's, and gear selection in this automatic could be better tuned. The VW shines on design, fit, and finish. The leg well is a bit narrow, but the seats are comfortable, making it a great car for a day drive.
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Great mileage, super low emissions, and big enough to carry lots of junk. Plus, it's surprisingly quiet for a diesel! Although, the acceleration could be improved.
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VW Passat is a great feat of German engineering. Autobahn for all, after all :-) The exterior is to fall in love for, interior is good and minimalistic, too but the drive feel... The steering is speed sensitive and I absolutely loved it! But... The speedometer has small numbers on it that are hard to read, so it's not clear from a quick glimpse on it whether you're making 60 or 70 km/h. The transmission is lovely, very responsive and seamless. You really cannot feel it but the engine is unrefined. Usually, I'm a big fan of smaller engines because of their efficiency, and almost limitless possibilities for improvement. But turbo lag kills me. Not responsive at all and jolty!!!
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It's been almost 4 months and I still find it so fun to drive! It's also great on gas. Out of all the cars we tested, this was definitely an excellent choice.
Other years of Volkswagen Passat
Are you having problems with your 2009 Volkswagen Passat?
Darien Stanton 2024-09-29
The VW Passat B6 with 2.0T engine has been known to experience engine failure, as was the case with my own vehicle. Despite regular maintenance and repairs, the engine suddenly died on a highway after only 15k miles of use. Unfortunately, the cost of repairing the catastrophic engine failure at 79k miles was not worth it. It is important to be aware of these issues when considering a VW Passat.
Cale Bogisich 2024-05-16
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my '09 2.0T. I took great care of it, using only synthetic oil and premium gas, and it was a dream to drive. Unfortunately, I started having some issues with ignition coils around 80K, and later on at 103K, it began to leak oil and coolant quite badly. I took it to a couple of reputable shops, but they both advised me that it wasn't worth fixing. In the end, I decided to trade it in at 106K for $2,500. Thanks for listening!
Gavin Gleichner 2024-04-27
My parents got me a 09 Passat as my first car. It was a great car, clean inside and out, and I loved how it drove and handled. It had plenty of power and room, but unfortunately, it wasn't very reliable. According to JD Power, it only had a 2/5 reliability rating, which is quite low. I soon found out how true that was. The water pump was the first thing to go, which cost $700, and all the coolant leaked out while I was driving. Luckily, I was close to home. The electronic throttle body was the second thing to go, which cost $600. In this case, I had to have it towed because it was in limp mode, and I was too far from my mechanic to drive it there. A week later, I had an engine fault come up on my dash, and I had to have the valves walnut blasted, which cost $400. Since it was a GDI and had never been done, the car was choking itself out and misfiring constantly. It only had 150,000 miles, which isn't terrible for some cars, but it is for this one. There are many other great options out there, such as the Camry or Accord. They're much easier and cheaper to maintain, so I would recommend staying away from the Passat.
Zander Hahn 2024-04-08
In general, you can expect a reasonable price/performance ratio. However, it's worth noting that the reliability of this product is not great. Additionally, you may need to replace the automatic windows, brakes, and instrument panel. But don't worry, we're here to help you with any issues you may encounter!