1998 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

5 recalls, 476 complaints - 148 TSBs

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

Defect Description

DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES... Read more

Consequence

DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy

DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.

42,540 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP

Defect Description

ON SOME PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE FUEL TANK FILLER NECK CAN SUFFER ABRASION DAMAGE IF THE REAR TIRE GOES FLAT AND THE VEHICLE IS DRIVEN UNTIL THE TIRE DISINTEGRATES.

Consequence

FUEL LEAKAGE CAN OCCUR INCREASING THE RISK OF A FIRE.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL FIT PASSAT VEHICLES WITH A NEW WHEEL HOUSE LINER THAT WILL BETTER PROTECT THE CAR'S FILLER NECK. JETTA VEHICLES WILL BE FITTED WITH A DIFFERENT METAL SHIELD DESIGNED TO ENHANCE ABRASION PROTECTION IN THE EVENT OF TIRE DISINTEGRATION. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JUNE 13, 2003. OWNERS WH... Read more

487,284 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC

STEERING:LINKAGES:ROD:RELAY:CONNECTING

Defect Description

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE TIE RODS OF THE STEERING ASSEMBLY ARE PROTECTED ON EACH SIDE BY A SEAL TO PREVENT MOISTURE AND DUST PARTICLES FROM ENTERING THE SWIVEL BEARING MECHANISM. IT IS POSSIBLE THAT SOME TIE ROD SEALS MAY NOT SEAL PROPERLY.

Consequence

IF MOISTURE AND/OR DUST PARTICLES ENTER THE SWIVEL BEARING MECHANISM, THE SWIVEL BEARING COULD WEAR OVER TIME DIMINISHING THE STEERING CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE TIE RODS.

51,900 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS

Defect Description

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS. A CONTROL VALVE IN THE VACUUM HOSE CONNECTING THE BRAKE BOOSTER TO THE INTAKE MANIFOLD MAY NOT OPEN OR CLOSE FULLY AT TEMPERATURES BELOW -4 F UNDER CERTAIN DRIVING CONDITIONS.

Consequence

THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE INSUFFICIENT VACUUM TO BE PROVIDED TO THE BRAKE BOOSTER.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL INSTALL A VACUUM BY-PASS SYSTEM INTO VEHICLES OPERATED IN THESE STATES WHICH IS DESIGNED TO PROVIDE SUFFICIENT VACUUM FOR FULL BRAKE ASSIST UNDER ALL WEATHER CONDITIONS.

88,121 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM

Defect Description

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. IF THE ENGINE BACKFIRES DURING A COLD-START, AN AIR SCREEN WHICH IS LOOSELY SEATED IN THE AIR FLOW METER CAN BECOME DAMAGED.

Consequence

SCREEN PIECES COULD ENTER THE INTAKE AIR FLOW SYSTEM AND PREVENT THE THROTTLE PLATE FROM RETURNING TO ITS FULL IDLE POSITION.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL INSTALL A RETAINING RING TO HOLD THE AIR SCREEN IN PLACE.

19,800 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC

Complaint Statistics

476 total complaints 7 crashes 6 fires 12 injuries 1 deaths

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM	29
SUSPENSION:FRONT	28
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP	28
STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY	24
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE	22
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE	22
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM	21
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:ANTILOCK:ABS WARNING LIGHT	11
VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY	11
SEATS	9

Incident date: Oct 4, 2017

THE TIMING CHAIN SYSTEM IS DEFECTIVE AND THEY KNOW IT. WHY DIDN'T THEY INFORM ME OF THIS.MAYBE BECAUSE THEY HAVE HANDS FULL WITH THE EMISSION CHEATING SCANDAL. OR IF THEY DID THEM THEY WOULD BE LIABLE FOR ALL THE COMPLAINTS BEFORE. PLEASE PUTVOUTCA RECALL. THIS CAR IS DANGEROUS !!!!!

Incident date: Oct 4, 2017

Incident date: Oct 1, 2017

DRIVING BACK HOME FROM STORE AND CAR JUST DIED OUT THAN SMELT LIKE GAS.

Incident date: Jul 10, 2014

CABIN SMELLS LIKE FUMES FOR STARTERS AN GAS GAUGE IS OFF CAR SAYS IT HAS QUARTER OF A TANK AN THAN I RUN OUT OF GAS ALMOST HAD A ACCIDENT BECAUSE OF THIS ! ALSO CAR HAS TONS OF ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS IF IT SITS FOR MORE THAN THREE DAYS BATTERY DIES BUT MY MAIN CONCERN IS MY FUEL GAUGE. *TR

Incident date: Oct 1, 2010

ABS MODULE APPEARS TO BE FAULTY. ABS AND BRAKE LIGHT REMAIN ON/FLASHING. LOSS OF ABS COULD CAUSE COLLISION, DEALER WANTS $1000+ FOR THE PART AND DOES NOT GUARANTEE IT WILL FIX THE PROBLEM. *TR

Incident date: Sep 13, 2010

FIRE IN RUBBER BOOT HOUSING BETWEEN LEFT REAR DOOR AND CAR FRAME. PRECEDING EVENTS, LEFT REAR DOOR SPEAKER WAS NOT FUNCTIONING, LEFT REAR WINDOW FUNCTIONED SOMETIMES. DOOR WAS CLOSED AFTER RETURNING HOME AND PARKING GARAGE. ARCING WAS HEARD AND SMOKE CAME FROM DOOR. OWNER REMOVED MANY FUSES FROM ... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Dec 9, 2008

THE ABS LIGHT COMES ON,FOLLOWED BY THE BRAKE LIGHT BLINKING THE ENGINE OIL LIGHT COMES ON AND THE TACHOMETER GOES TO 0 AND STOPS WORKING EVEN THOUGH I AM ACCELERATING. THERE ARE MANY OTHERS WITH THIS SAME ISSUE IT CAN BE RESEARCHED ON HTTP://TECH.BENTLEYPUBLISHERS.COM/THREAD.JSPA?THREADID=2447&TSTA... Read more

Incident date: Dec 9, 2008

Incident date: Dec 7, 2008

THE ABS LIGHT STAYS ON, THE BRAKE LIGHT FLASHES, THE ENGINE OIL LIGHT COMES ON AND THE TACHOMETER GOES TO 0 AND STOPS WORKING EVEN THOUGH I AM ACCELERATING. THE CONTROL MODULE WAS THE CULPRIT AND IT WOULD COST $1450.00 AND THERE WAS NO USED PART AVAILABLE AND IT IS A DEALER ONLY PART. *TR

Incident date: Dec 9, 2008

Incident date: Aug 1, 2008

ABS MODULE FAILURE. WAS DRIVING SHORTLY AFTER HAVING FRONT END WORK DONE AND LIGHT WHEN ON. THIS HAPPENS INTERMITTENTLY WHILE DRIVING. BRAKING IS AFFECTED. *TR

Incident date: Feb 15, 2007

ABS MODULE IN OPERATIVE ABS SYSTEM. *TR

Crash

Incident date: Feb 15, 2007

ABS MODULE IN OPERATIVE ABS SYSTEM. *TR

Crash

Incident date: Sep 1, 2008

THE ABS MODULE IN MY 1998 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT 1.8T HAS GONE BAD. THIS FAULT CAME WITHOUT NOTICE OF ANY SYMPTOMS AND COMPLETELY UNPROVOKED. THE WARNING LAMP AND TONE APPEAR EVERY TIME I START THE VEHICLE. THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE WITH MANY INDEPENDENT VOLKSWAGEN MECHANICS AND MANY PASSAT OWNERS. *TR

Incident date: Jul 26, 2007

THE LOWER CONTROL ARMS ON MY 1998 VW PASSAT ARE DEFECTIVE AND DANGEROUS ACCORDING TO MY MECHANIC. VW REFUSES TO REPLACE THEM EVEN THOUGH THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THESE PARTS. THE REASONING IS THAT: - I BROUGHT MY CAR IN FOR THE RECALL AT THEIR DEALER IN 2005 AND AT THE TIME THE PARTS SEEMED OK. - AT T... Read more

Incident date: Apr 10, 2008

AS AN OEM SAFETY FEATURE, NOW I BELIEVE REQUIRED, THE ABS CONTROL MODULE ON MY 1998 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT, HAS FAILED, LEAVING THIS FEATURE INOPERATIVE. LUCKILY FOR MY SELF THIS HAS NOT BECOME A BURDEN OR CAUSED INJURY, BUT I'M SURE THAT OTHERS ARE NOT AS LUCKY AS I HAVE BEEN. *TR

Incident date: Jun 6, 2005

MY ABS COMPUTER FAILED ON MY 1998 V6 PASSAT. THIS SEEMS TO BE A COMMON OCCURRENCE AND THERE SHOULD HAVE BEEN A RECALL ON THIS DEFECTIVE PART. IT IS DANGEROUS AND CAUSES IRREGULAR BRAKING AND FLASHING DASHBOARD LIGHTS. *TR

Incident date: Jul 20, 2007

NOISE FROM LEFT SIDE CONTROL ARM OF A 1998 VW PASSAT 1.8T. *TR

Incident date: May 1, 2008

MY 1998 VW PASSAT GLX BEGAN EXHIBITING A FLASHING/BEEPING RED LIGHT TO INDICATE A FAILURE IN THE ABS SYSTEM. UPON FURTHER RESEARCH WITH OTHER OWNERS OF THIS VEHICLE, IT HAS COME TO MY ATTENTION THAT THIS FAILURE IS FAIRLY COMMON ON 1998-2001 PASSATS, BUT NO ACTION HAS EVER BEEN TAKEN BY THE MANUFACT... Read more

Incident date: May 1, 2007

ABS/ BRAKE LIGHT ARE ON, CHIMES SOUND WHEN VEHICLE IS TURNED ON AND WON'T TURN OFF. *TR

Incident date: Jan 1, 2008

ABS COMPUTER FAILURE 98 VW PASSAT... COMPLETE ABSFAILURE ALL THE TIME. *TR

Incident date: Oct 1, 2004

ABS BRAKES CEASED TO FUNCTION AFTER APPROX 60K MILES. BECAUSE OF THE EXPENSE TO FIX (DEALER QUOTED $2400, INDIE MECHS ABOUT $1400), THEY REMAIN NON-FUNCTIONAL (MY CAR IS NOW 95K MILES). *TR

Incident date: Aug 2, 2008

ABS/ BRAKE LIGHT ARE ON AND 3 CHIMES SOUND WHEN VEHICLE IS TURNED ON. *TR

Incident date: Sep 28, 2007

SUNROOF SPONTANEOUSLY OPENS AND CLOSES WITHOUT WARNING. WHEN IT OPENS, IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO GET IT CLOSED WITH THE SWITCH AS IT NEVER RETURNS TO A PREDICTABLE POSITION BASED ON THE MARKINGS ON THE SWITCH. ONCE OPEN, IT MAY CLOSE ITSELF AT RANDOMLY AND UNPREDICTABLY. WHEN IT IS OPEN, I'M AFRAID TO ... Read more

Incident date: Aug 5, 1998

MY ABS LIGHT INTERMITTENTLY COMES ON FOLLOWED BY THE BRAKE LIGHT FLASHING> UPON RESEARCHING THIS ON SEVERAL VARIOUS FORUMS ON THE NET. THIS APPEARS TO BE A COMMONLY DEFECTIVE PART ON SEVERAL MODEL YEARS FROM 98-01. THE OLDEST POSTING I FOUND WAS DONE IN 2000 AND THE VEHICLE WAS A 99. FROM RESEARCHIN... Read more

Incident date: Aug 5, 1998

Incident date: Aug 10, 2007

ABS CONTROLLER FAILED. MODULE SCAN SHOWED: 01203 - ELECTRICAL CONNECTION BETWEEN ABS AND INSTRUMENT CLUSTER 03-10 - NO SIGNAL - INTERMITTENT. *JB

Incident date: Feb 5, 2005

STEERING: CONTROL ARMS. THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED USED WITH APPROX 34K MILES. SERVICE HAS BEEN MAINTAINED BY OWNER AND/OR INDEPENDENT REPAIR. AT APPROXIMATELY 50K OWNER WAS NOTIFIED BY INDEPENDENT REPAIR SERVICE THAT BOTH UPPER CONTROL ARMS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. OWNER CHOSE NOT TO DO THE REPAIR AT... Read more

Incident date: May 12, 2007

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. THE CONTACT HEARD A POPPING NOISE WHILE DRIVING 3 MPH IN REVERSE. THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE SLAMMED TO THE GROUND WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED AND A LOCAL MECHANIC REPLACED THE LOWER RIGHT CONTROL ARM. THE CONTACT HAS THE FAILED COMPONEN... Read more

Incident date: Nov 30, 2006

VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT 1998 DASHBOARD INDICATED THAT THE ABS BRAKES FAILED. REPLACEMENT OR REPAIR WAS ESTIMATED AT APPROX $1,000. *AK

Incident date: Aug 10, 2006

ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE FOR ANTI-LOCK BRAKES FAILED. ANTI-LOCK BRAKES ARE NON-FUNCTIONING. *JB

Incident date: Jan 3, 2007

ANTI-LOCK BRAKE FAILURE. ABS WARNING LIGHT .*JB

Incident date: Jan 1, 2006

OWNER WAS DRIVING VEHICLE FOR APPROXIMATELY 5 MINUTES, PARKED IT, AND THEN NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM THE HEATER AND ALSO NOTICED THE HOOD LIGHT GOING ON AND OFF. FIRE BURNED THROUGHOUT THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT AND PART OF THE UNDERCARRIAGE. CAUSE UNDETERMINED. *NM

Fire

Incident date: Dec 27, 2004

MANY AUDI AND VW MODELS MANUFACTURED STARTING IN THE LATER '90S AND EALRY '00S, USE THE BOSCH 5.3 ABS CONTROLLER, WHICH IS PRONE TO CATASTROPHIC FAILURE, OSTENSIBLY DUE TO DEFECTIVE DESIGN. THIS MODULE CONTROLS MULTIPLE BRAKE-RELATED FUNCTIONS INCLUDING THE ABS WHICH IS IMPORTANT FOR WINTER DRIVING,... Read more

Incident date: Dec 27, 2004

Incident date: Jun 10, 2003

ABS LIGHT CAME ON WITH LESS THAN 30,000 MILES ON IT. FOR 4 YEARS, THE VW DEALER SAID IT WOULD BE OVER $1,800 TO REPLACE THE ABS PUMP. LAST YEAR THEY SAID IT WOULD BE $2750. AFTER SEEING ON INTERNET THREADS THAT THE COMMON CAUSE IS ONLY THE ABS MODULE, I CONFRONTED THE DEALER, AND THEY SAI IT WOULD $... Read more

Incident date: Nov 20, 2006

WHILE STARTING OFF FROM A STANDSTILL, I HEARD A POPPING SOUND AND I FLEW BACKWARDS IN MY SEAT. APPARENTLY THE SEAT FRAME MECHANISM FOR MY DRIVERS SEAT FAILED. THE METAL OF THE FRAME, AS IT WAS DESIGNED AND MANUFACTURED, FAILED FROM METAL FATIGUE. WHEN IT DID, THERE WAS NOTHING HOLDING THE FRONT O... Read more

Incident date: Jan 12, 2006

FAILED ABS UNIT. *JB

Incident date: Sep 18, 2006

(1) ABS WARNING/BRAKE LIGHT STARTED BLINKING INTERMITTENTLY. SINCE THEN, BRAKING BECAME UNRELIABLE (LONG BRAKING DISTANCE. THE CAR WOBBLES ON A HARD BRAKING). (2) THE ABS CONTROLLER MODULE (PART #: 8E0 614 111 P) FOUND TO BE FAULTY, RESULTING IN NO ABS. (3) THE ABS CONTROLLER IS TO BE SENT FOR A R... Read more

Incident date: Jan 10, 2005

1998 VW PASSAT ABS CONTROL MODULE FAILURE. THIS $1000 PART SEEMS TO BE A VERY CONSISTENT FAILURE AT VOLKSWAGEN. *JB

Incident date: Jun 23, 2006

DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH ON THE EXPRESSWAY, THE TIMING CHAIN FRACTURED PREMATURELY AND CAUSED THE ENGINE TO STALL SUDDENLY WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THE TIMING CHAIN SHOULD HAVE BEEN REPLACED AT 105,000 MILES. THE VEHICLE O... Read more

Incident date: Jul 1, 2003

ANTI-LOCK BRAKES FAIL. WARNING LIGHT AND BUZZER COME ON. DEALER SAID IT WOULD COST $2800 TO FIX. AFTER TELLING DEALER THAT 99% OF ABS FAILURES IS THE ABS ELECTRONICS MODULE, AND NOT THE ABS PUMP, DEALER OFFERED TO REPLACE MODULE FOR $600. I FEEL THIS IS A WIDE SPREAD PROBLEM, AS THIS PROBLEM IS NOTE... Read more

Incident date: Jul 8, 2006

3 OF THE 4 SIDE ELECTRIC WINDOWS HAVE FAILED DURING THE PAST YEAR. *JB

Incident date: Jun 1, 2003

I AM THE SECOND OWNER OF A 1998 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT VIN #[XXX], WHICH HAS A SAFETY RECALL FOR THE TIE ROD ENDS. THE LOCAL VOLKSWAGEN DEALER(S) HAVE ACKNOWLEDGED THAT THE FRONT TIE RODS DO NEED TO BE REPLACED, HOWEVER, THEY WILL NOT HONOR THE SAFETY RECALL. THE REASON IS THAT THERE IS NO RECORD OF FAC... Read more

Incident date: Apr 17, 2006

BEGINNING IN JUNE 2002, I BEGAN REPORTING TO VW SERVICE CENTERS ISSUES WITH THE SUSPENSION AND DRIVETRAIN. MOST OF THESE ISSUES WERE REFERENCED BY THE NHTSA (SEE 99V248000). ON JANUARY 25, 2005 I WROTE TO VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA DETAILING THE SUSPENSION AND DRIVETRAIN ISSUES, INCLUDING REFERENCING T... Read more

Incident date: Jan 4, 2006

ABS CONTROLLER FAILURE. *NM

Incident date: Nov 5, 2005

HAD A CREAKING SOUND IN THE FRONT END OF MY 1998 VW PASSAT 1.8T. TOOK IT IN TO THE DEALER AND WAS TOLD THE LEFT FRONT UPPER CONTROL ARM TIE RODS WERE BAD (AND DANGEROUS) AND HAD TO BE REPLACED AT MY COST. DID THIS AND 6 WEEKS LATER THE UPPER CONTROL ARM ON THE RIGHT FRONT SIDE FAILED WHILE DRIVING... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Feb 12, 2006

ABS FAILED, FLASHING LIGHTS CONTINUALLY. SPOKE WITH DEALER IN SEASIDE, CA SAID COMMON EVENT AND NOT WORTH REPLACING. *JB

Showing 50 of 476 complaints.

EPA Fuel Economy, 1998 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

Trim / Engine	City MPG	Highway MPG	Combined MPG	Fuel Type	Annual Fuel Cost
1.8L 4-cyl, Automatic 5-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	18.0	28.0	22.0	Premium	$3,450
1.8L 4-cyl, Manual 5-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	20.0	29.0	24.0	Premium	$3,150
1.9L 4-cyl, Automatic 4-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	27.0	39.0	31.0	Diesel	$2,550
1.9L 4-cyl, Manual 5-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	32.0	45.0	37.0	Diesel	$2,150
2.8L 6-cyl, Automatic 5-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	16.0	26.0	19.0	Premium	$4,000
2.8L 6-cyl, Manual 5-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	18.0	26.0	21.0	Premium	$3,600

CO2 Emissions: -1.0 g/mile (Midsize Cars)

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Actual fuel economy may vary based on driving conditions.

Technical Service Bulletins, 1998 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

148 manufacturer communications from 98 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL	16
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	16
350000 EQUIPMENT	9
120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING	8
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE	7
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	6
060000 ENGINE (PWS)	4
133000 VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS	4

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Update to Volkswagen engine oil standards

061500 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION

Volkswagen Engine oil quality standards, update to attachments.

061500 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION

Engine oil quality standards, update to attachments.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Update model year applicability to include 2023.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Battery testing and charging using special tools VAS6161 & GRX3000VAS Charger. Updated to include additional model year applicability.

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

Tool number added to table. Removal of Behr Flush Kit. VAS 6337/1A

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

Updated to include additional models and model year applicability.

350000 EQUIPMENT

The part number listed in the document is to be returned if it meets the criteria provided.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Alternative method for radio code retrieval.

350000 EQUIPMENT

Alternative method for radio code retrieval.

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

Engine Oils Which Meet Volkswagen Oil Quality Standards

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Battery Testing and Charging instruction. Updated to include model year 2019 applicability.

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Condensation and or water droplets visible on inside of exterior light lenses. TB updated to include model year 2019 applicability.

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

Engine replacement tip

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

Tip for Scan tool concerns that may occur duing a test plan

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Updated to include model year 2014 thru 2018 applicability.

111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY

Updated to include model year 2014 thru 2018 applicability.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Update to existing tip for fuel quality checking.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

17 17 01 July 5, 2017 2012855 Supersedes Technical Bulletin 17-16-02 (V171602) dated April 29, 2016 due to updated oil standards lists to current specifications. Engine Oils Which Meet Volkswagen Oil Quality Standards

350000 EQUIPMENT

This special notice is to inform dealers to return all part numbers listed in the document and order the superseded part numbers going forward.

350000 EQUIPMENT

VAS 6154 Replacement Part Setup Guide

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

This communication is to update our ProFi dealers of the current status of the latest inbound and outbound ProFi requests.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Update model year applicability to include 2017.

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

Update to model year applicability.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Data Link connector pin assignment chart that is applicable to all models. Update model year applicability.

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

TO UPDATE MODEL TABLE TO CLARIFY JETTA WAGON APPLICABILITY TO TB CONTENT.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

To update claim process statement.

162800 STRUCTURE:BODY:HOOD

Corrosion may be found on the folded edge of the hood. Supersedes TB V551603

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

To update claim processing statement.

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

Document discusses Corrosion that may be found on the folded edge of the hood. The corrosion may be found on this edge anywhere around the hood. It discusses how to service it, and document that service. It discusses where to find what appl

162800 STRUCTURE:BODY:HOOD

Corrosion on hood edge.

180000 VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Corrosion on hood edge.

162200 STRUCTURE:BODY:BUMPERS

The document refers to Corrosion being found where the rear bumper cover meets the quarter panel. It discusses how it can happen, and where to find warranty coverage to service the parts

160000 STRUCTURE

Rear quarter panel corrosion.

140000 AIR BAGS

Airbag Issues.

130000 VISIBILITY

Technical Bulletin (Windshield Wipers Streak or Smear): Windshield or rear window is streaked, has a snakeskin appearance, or the surface feels rough. To avoid unnecessary replacement of wiper blades, the condition and cleanliness of the w

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Technical Bulletin (Air Conditioning, Cleaning of the Refrigerant Circuit (U.S.Only)): In cases where an air conditioning system component (such as a compressor or other system component) has failed and debris from the compressor or compon

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

This document contains the VW Elsa Newsletter that contains a general overview of wiring diagrams updates, technical bulletins, pending service solutions, tech tips, campaigns, updates, and suggestions.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This document contains the VW Elsa Newsletter that contains a general overview of wiring diagrams updates, ElsaPro infomedia icons grayed out, workshop equipment tool storage application, technical bulletins, pending service solutions, tech

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Tech Tips (Heated Rear Window, One or More Lines Inoperative): To detect which line(s) is inoperative, utilize a volt meter to check for 0 V, which will be present after the open in the grid line. The check must be performed with the engin

132000 VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR

133000 VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS

132000 VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR

Technical Bulletin (Rear Door Glass Inoperative): The rear glass cannot be opened / closed, the rear glass may slide down into the door, or the rear glass motor operates but the glass does not move. This document contains the fault codes,

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Technical Bulletin: Condensation and or water droplets becomming visible on inside of exterior light lenses issue is discussed in this document

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Technical Bulletin: Condensation and or water droplets becomming visible on inside of exterior light lenses issue is discussed in this document

162300 STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR

Technical Bulletin (Rear Door Glass Inoperative issue diagnosis): The rear glass cannot be opened / closed, the rear glass may slide down into the door, or the rear glass motor operates but the glass does not move

111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY

Technical Bulletin: Battery, Testing and Charging Using Midtronics VAS6161, MCR340V, InCharge 940, or GRX3000VAS Charger

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

VW Elsa Newsletter

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

VW Elsa Newsletter

133000 VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS

VW Elsa Newsletter

160000 STRUCTURE

VW Elsa Newsletter

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

VW Elsa Newsletter

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

SUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.

160000 STRUCTURE

Corrosion where handle contacts rear lid (Figure 1).

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

VW Elsa Newsletter

103100 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)

VW Elsa Newsletter

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

VW Elsa Newsletter

133000 VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS

VW Elsa Newsletter

160000 STRUCTURE

VW Elsa Newsletter

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

Battery, Testing and Charging Using Midtronics VAS6161, MCR340V, InCharge 940, or GRX3000 Charger

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

Technical Bulletin (Air Conditioning, Cleaning of the Refrigerant Circuit): In cases where an air conditioning system component (such as a compressor or other system component) has failed and debris from the compressor or component is circ

138000 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM

Air Conditioning, Cleaning of the Refrigerant Circuit (U.S.Only)

030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

For long crank/ difficulty starting with the engine hot: Before replacing any components for this complaint, drain the fuel from the vehicle and replace with known good diesel fuel from a reputable source. If the complaint still exists, che

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

080000 FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

Technical Bulletin (Engine Oils Which Meet Volkswagen Oil Quality Standard): This document informs of a sample list of products generally available in the North American market that meet the Volkswagen Oil Quality Standard

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

Engine Oils Which Meet Volkswagen Oil Quality Standard VW 502 00/505 00/505 01 and VW 504 00/507 00

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Assembly Instructions: Installation of original remote start feature accessory, Volkswagen Passat.

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Technical Bulletin (Exterior Lights, Moisture Accumulation): This document informs of the Condensation and or water droplets visible on inside of exterior light lenses. The document also informs how to service the issue.

350000 EQUIPMENT

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Exterior Lights, Moisture Accumulation

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

VW Elsa Newsletter

121000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

VW Elsa Newsletter

136000 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER

VW Elsa Newsletter

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

VW Elsa Newsletter

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

VW Elsa Newsletter

136000 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER

VW Elsa Newsletter

350000 EQUIPMENT

VW Elsa Newsletter

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Fault code P1297 may be set and fuel mixtures may go lean if the vehicle is driven under load or revved up and then returned to idle.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Fault code P1297 may be set and fuel mixtures may go lean if the vehicle is driven under load or revved up and then returned to idle.

350000 EQUIPMENT

Technical Bulletin (Squeaks, Rattles, Noise, Repair Materials): This doucment contains a list of components and applications developed to repair concerns of squeaks, rattles, noise and trim fit conditions.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Squeaks, Rattles, Noise, Repair Materials

121000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

Technical Bulletin (Exterior Lights, Moisture Accumulation): Exterior light assemblies (headlights, taillights, fog lights, turn signals) are vented and may collect moisture on their inner surfaces, depending on humidity and other climatic

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Exterior Lights, Moisture Accumulation

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Fuel Additive to Help Prevent Sporadic Misfire Faults

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Fuel Additive to Help Prevent Sporadic Misfire Faults

138200 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:REAR WINDOW

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

To detect which line(s) is inoperative, utilize a volt meter to check for 0 V, which will be present after the open in the grid line. The check must be performed with the engine running and heated rear window switched on. Switch OFF the ign

116100 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

138220 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:REAR WINDOW:ELECTRICAL HEATING ELEMENT

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Passat Perfect Delivery Inspection (PDI) - Technician and Detailer Inspections: A checklist to insure a customer receives a wonderful delivery of a vehicle that looks, feels, and meets the expectations of a new vehicle that he/she has purc

350000 EQUIPMENT

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

To code a Bosch 5.3 ABS control module, use Vehicle Self-diagnosis to enter the correct coding value from the tables below. Note that the first table is only applicable to 2.8L V6 equipped vehicles WITHOUT a CAN-Bus. All 1.8L Turbo vehicles

036400 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:ABS WARNING LIGHT

046100 SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:ANTILOCK:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE

VOLKSWAGEN: UPDATE TO INFORMATION. PROVIDING CORRECT CODING VALUES FOR ABS CONTROL MODULES ON CERTAIN VEHICLES WITHOUT CAN-BUS. MODELS 1998-2002 PASSAT. *PE

030000 BRAKES (PWS)

SUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.

Showing 100 of 148 bulletins.

NHTSA Safety Investigations, VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.

EA, Closed , Model Year: 2001

Engine Compartment Fire

In July 2010, the Agency opened PE10-027 to investigate allegations of coil on plug (COP) ignition coil fires in MY2002-2003 VW Passat vehicles.The investigation was upgraded in January 2011 to include all MY2001-2007 4-cylinder VW Passat, gasoline, turbo-charged vehicles.Based on the analysis of VW... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2002

Engine Compartment Fire

ODI has received 11 complaints alleging that a fire started in the engine compartment of the vehicle that may be related to ignition coil failure, and 9 complaints of ignition coil failure that did not result in a fire.Reports state that the vehicle hesitated or lost power, and the check engine or d... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2009

TRANSMISSION FLUID HOSE CHAFE

ON MAY 4, 2009, THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATIONS (ODI) OPENED PRELIMINARY EVALUATION PE09-022 TO INVESTIGATE AN OWNER COMPLAINT (ODI NO. 10260517) ALLEGING CONTACT BETWEEN THE ATF COOLING LINE AND THE RADIATOR FAN BLADES.THE COMPLAINT INDICATED THAT THE CONTACT RESULTED IN RAPID ATF FLUID LOSS W... Read more

EA, Closed , Model Year: 1999

PASSENGER ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES

THE MANUFACTURER NOTIFIED NHTSA ON 04-APR-08 THAT A SAFETY RECALL ACTION WOULD BE INITIATED TO REMEDY THE ISSUE.IN JUNE 2008, THE MANUFACTURER ISSUED A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN (CODE 26E5/R5) REGARDING THE SPECIFIC PROCEDURES TO BE EMPLOYED IN THIS CAMPAIGN.VEHICLE OWNER NOTIFICATION LETTERS WERE ... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2000

PASSENGER/ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES

MANY OF THE FIRE REPORTS ALLEGE THAT THE VEHICLE FIRE WAS ATTRIBUTED TO IGNITION COIL FAILURE.VW PROVIDED ADDITIONAL DATA REGARDING ITS ANALYSIS OF VEHICLE FIRES AND A DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE THREE DIFFERENT ENGINES AND IGNITION SYSTEMS FOR THE SUBJECT VEHICLES.ODIFINDS THE NEED TO FURTHER INVES... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2002

WATER/ICE IN BRAKE BOOSTER

DURING THIS INVESTIGATION, VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA (VW) IDENTIFIED A PROBLEM WITH WATER ACCUMULATION IN THE FRESH AIR PLENUM THAT COULD, IN CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES, RESULT IN REDUCED BRAKE POWER ASSIST IN MODEL YEAR (MY) 2002 PASSAT VEHICLES.VW INDICATED THAT PROBLEM IS CAUSED BY LEAVES AND OTHER DEBRIS... CLOGGING THE PLENUM DRAINS, WHICH MAY RESULT IN WATER FILLING THE PLENUM TO THE LEVEL OF THE BRAKE BOOSTER AIR INTAKE.THE BOOSTER AIR INTAKE IS LOCATED IN THE FRESH AIR PLENUM IN THE MY 2002 PASSAT VEHICLES, BUT NOT IN THE MY 2001 OR 2003 VEHICLES WHICH DRAW BOOSTER AIR FROM THE CABIN.VW TESTING SHOWED THAT BRAKE ASSIST COULD BE REDUCED IF WATER ENTERS THE BOOSTER AND FREEZES.VW IS ADDRESSING THE PROBLEM WITH A SERVICE CAMPAIGN, WHICH BEGAN IN AUGUST 2007.THE FRESH AIR PLENUM IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES IS AN ENCLOSED SPACE AT THE BASE OF THE WINDSHIELD FROM WHICH THE VEHICLE VENTILATION SYSTEM DRAWS THE FRESH AIR SUPPLY VIA A POLLEN FILTER.RAIN WATER THAT FLOWS OFF THE WINDSHIELD INTO THE PLENUM IS DRAINED THROUGH TWO VALVES LOCATED BELOW THE BATTERY AND BRAKE BOOSTER.STRAINERS AT THE BASE OF THE WINDSHIELD AND IN THE PANEL COVERING THE TOP OF THE PLENUM BLOCK LEAVES, PINE NEEDLES AND OTHER DEBRIS.OVER TIME, DEBRIS MAY ENTER THE PLENUM THROUGH OPENINGS IN THE PLENUM PANEL OR AROUND THE HOOD HINGES.IF CLOGGED DRAINS ALLOW APPROXIMATELY 3-4 GALLONS OF WATER TO ACCUMULATE IN THE PLENUM, THE WATER MAY ENTER THE BOOSTER THROUGH THE AIR INTAKE.WATER ACCUMULATION IN THE PLENUM MAY ALSO RESULT IN COMPLAINTS OF WET CARPETS IN THE VEHICLE INTERIOR IF THE WATER REACHES THE LEVEL OF THE FRESH AIR INTAKE/POLLEN FILTER. VW STATED THAT ITS TESTING SHOWED THAT BRAKE PERFORMANCE AND ACTUATING FORCE (I.E., PEDAL EFFORT) ARE NOT AFFECTED WHEN THE BOOSTER IS FILLED WITH THE MAXIMUM AMOUNT OF WATER POSSIBLE (UP TO THE HEIGHT OF THE BOOSTER ENGINE VACUUM CONNECTION, THROUGH WHICH WATER DRAWN INTO THE BOOSTER IS EVACUATED).VW'S TESTING SHOWED THAT BRAKE PERFORMANCE AND ACTUATING FORCE COULD BE AFFECTED BY WATER FREEZING IN THE BOOSTER.HOWEVER, WHEN TESTED WITH RELATIVELY LOW VOLUMES OF FROZEN WATER IN THE BOOSTER, VW SHOWED THAT THE EFFECTS WERE SIGNIFICANTLY LESS SEVERE THAN FOR CONDITIONS THAT RESULT IN A COMPLETE LOSS OF VACUUM ASSIST.WHILE VW INDICATED THAT THE EFFECTS WOULD BE MORE SEVERE WITH GREATER VOLUMES OF FROZEN WATER, IT MAINTAINED THAT THE CHANCES OF THIS OCCURRING WERE REMOTE AND WOULD BE READILY DISCERNABLE TO THE DRIVER UPON THE INITIAL BRAKE APPLICATION AFTER VEHICLE START-UP.ODI'S ANALYSIS OF COMPLAINTS AND WARRANTY DATA SHOWED DISPROPORTIONATE CONCENTRATIONS IN WINTER MONTHS AND IN NORTHERN STATES WITH COLDER WINTER CLIMATES. ODI IDENTIFIED THREE MINOR CRASHES RELATED TO THE ALLEGED DEFECT IN MY 2002 PASSAT VEHICLES.TWO OF THE CRASHES OCCURRED INGARAGES/DRIVEWAYS AND THE THIRD OCCURRED IN A DEALER SERVICE GARAGE.THERE WERE NO INJURIES ALLEGED IN THE CRASHES BUT A FOOT INJURY WAS ALLEGED IN A FOURTH INCIDENT WHERE EXCESSIVE BRAKE EFFORT REQUIRED DURING A HARD STOP. VOLKSWAGEN IS CONDUCTING A SERVICE CAMPAIGN TO REMEDY THIS CONDITION IN MY 2002 PASSAT AND AUDI A4 AND A6 VEHICLES.THE REMEDY PROCEDURE REQUIRES VW DEALERS TO INSPECT, CLEAN AND MODIFY THE AIR PLENUM DRAIN, AS WELL AS MODIFY THE SUNROOF DRAIN (IF EQUIPPED) AND INSTALL AN IMPROVED SEAL FOR THE POLLEN FILTER.IN ADDITION, VW HAS AGREED TO PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION TO ODI1. QUARTERLY COMPLETION REPORTS FOR ONE YEAR; AND 2. PROMPTLY REPORTING ALL CRASHES ATTRIBUTED TO THE ALLEGED DEFECT. THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED BASED UPON THE ACTIONS TAKEN BY VW.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CRead more

DP, Closed , Model Year: 1999

ALLEGED PREMATURE TIE ROD FAILURE

ON AUGUST 2, 2005, ODI RECEIVED A PETITION SUBMITTED BY MS. MIRIAM SCHNEIDER OF OLNEY, MD, REQUESTING AN INVESTIGATION OF ALLEGEDLY DEFECTIVE TIE RODS IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR (MY) 1999 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT VEHICLES NOT INCLUDED IN TWO PREVIOUS SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGNS (IDENTIFIED HENCEFORTH AS THE SUBJECT... VEHICLES).IN A SEPTEMBER 1999 LETTER, VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC. (VW) NOTIFIED THE AGENCY THAT AN UNDETERMINED PERCENTAGE OF MY 1998-1999 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT AND AUDI A4, A6, AND A8 VEHICLES CONTAINED A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT AFFECTING ALUMINUM TIE ROD ENDS IN THE STEERING SYSTEM.VW INDICATED THAT IT WAS POSSIBLE THAT SOME TIE RODS WOULD NOT SEAL PROPERLY WHICH COULD ALLOW MOISTURE AND DUST PARTICLES TO ENTER THE SWIVEL BEARING MECHANISM, RESULTING IN PREMATURE WEAR.THE APPROXIMATELY 22,200 VOLKSWAGEN AND 29,700 AUDI VEHICLES AFFECTED BY THIS RECALL (IDENTIFIED BY NHTSA RECALL NO. 99V-248) WERE BUILT FROM JANUARY 1998 THROUGH JULY 1998 AND FELL WITHIN A SPECIFIC VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (VIN) RANGE.IN NOVEMBER 2000, VW CHOSE TO EXPAND THE SCOPE OF THE RECALL (IDENTIFIED BY NHTSA RECALL NO. 00V-414) AFTER IT DETERMINED THAT SOME POTENTIALLY DEFECTIVE ALUMINUM TIE ROD ENDS MAY HAVE BEEN INSTALLED IN AN ADDITIONAL 44,000 VOLKSWAGEN AND 39,000 AUDI VEHICLES BUILT FROM AUGUST 1998 THROUGH APRIL 1999.THESE SUBJECT RECALL ACTIONS WERE NOT INFLUENCED BY ODI.INSTEAD, VW MADE AN INDEPENDENT DETERMINATION TO CONDUCT A RECALL AFTER GERMAN VEHICLE INSPECTION AUTHORITIES NOTIFIED IT OF ?WORN? TIE RODS AND FACTORY INSPECTION OF SOME ?WORN? TIE RODS REVEALED IMPROPER SEALING.ACCORDING TO A DECEMBER 2004 REPORT, THE PETITIONER BROUGHT HER MY 1999 PASSAT TO AN AUTHORIZED VOLKSWAGEN DEALER FOR AN UNRELATED RECALL REPAIR WHERE SHE WAS NOTIFIED BY SERVICE PERSONNEL THAT, AFTER 59,000 MILES TRAVELED, THE TIE RODS ?HAVE TOO MUCH PLAY,? AND THE RECOMMENDED REPAIRS WOULD NOT BE COVERED FREE OF CHARGE BECAUSE HER VIN (WVWNA63B1XE499116) WAS OUTSIDE THE RECALL RANGE.IN JUNE 2005, AFTER 65,400 MILES TRAVELED, THE PETITIONER PAID $588.59 TO REPLACE WORN INNER AND OUTER TIE ROD ENDS ON BOTH SIDES OF THE VEHICLE.THE PETITION LETTER SPECIFICALLY REQUESTS THAT THE SCOPE OF VW?S RECALL BE EXPANDED TO INCLUDE THE PETITIONER?S VEHICLE AND THAT SHE BE REIMBURSED FOR THE COST OF THE REPAIRS.THERE ARE A TOTAL OF 191 NON-DUPLICATIVE COMPLAINTS TO ODI AND VW THAT ALLEGE PREMATURE WEAR OF EITHER ONE OR BOTH OUTER TIE ROD ENDS IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES.AS OF NOVEMBER 18, 2005, ODI IS NOT AWARE OF ANY ALLEGATIONS OF TIE ROD SEPARATIONS RESULTING IN A LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL, CRASH OR INJURY IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES.THE PETITIONER?S VEHICLE WAS MANUFACTURED ON JUNE 8, 1999 USING REVISED STEEL TIE ROD ENDS AND THEREFORE WAS ALREADY EQUIPPED WITH THE TIE ROD ENDS USED TO REMEDY DEFECTIVE VEHICLES IN THE SUBJECT RECALLS.ANALYSIS INDICATES THAT THERE DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT TREND WITH RESPECT TO THE STEEL TIE ROD ENDS USED IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES.IN VIEW OF THE FOREGOING, IT IS UNLIKELY THAT NHTSA WOULD ISSUE AN ORDER FOR THE NOTIFICATION AND REMEDY OF THE ALLEGED DEFECT AS DEFINED BY THE PETITIONER AT THE CONCLUSION OF THE INVESTIGATION REQUESTED IN THE PETITION.THEREFORE, IN VIEW OF THE NEED TO ALLOCATE AND PRIORITIZE NHTSA?S LIMITED RESOURCES TO BEST ACCOMPLISH THE AGENCY?S SAFETY MISSION, THE PETITION IS DENIED.Read more

EA, Closed , Model Year: 1998

PASSENGER AIR BAG LID FAILURE

THIS INVESTIGATION INVOLVES THE VOLKSWAGEN (VW) PASSENGER SUPPLEMENTAL INFLATABLE RESTRAINT (PSIR) LID UTILIZED IN MY 1998-2002 VW PASSAT.THE PSIR LID MAY DETACH FROM THE INSTRUMENT PANEL DURING AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT.THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) OF THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMIN... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1998

PASSENGER SIR DOOR MOUNTING STUD FAILURE

ODI OPENED A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION (PE03-021) BASED ON TWO REPORTS OF FAILED BOLT STUDS THAT ATTACH THE PASSENGER SUPPLEMENTAL INFLATABLE RESTRAINT (PSIR) DOOR COVER TO THE INSTRUMENT PANEL (IP) ON THE VOLKSWAGEN (VW) PASSAT (MODEL YEARS 2000, 2002).VW HAS INDICATED TO ODI THAT IT HAS NO ADDITIONAL... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1993

FOG LAMP FIRE

ALLEGED THAT THE FOG LAMP HOUSING CATCHES FIRE DURING USE

VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT - All Years Overview

Complete safety history for the VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT across all model years (1988, 2021).

136 Total Recalls

10,530 Total Complaints

10 Investigations

338 Reported Crashes

368 Reported Fires

15 Reported Deaths

VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT - Year by Year

Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.

Year	Recalls	Complaints
2022	0	19	View
2021	1	28	View
2020	3	24	View
2019	1	18	View
2018	4	65	View
2017	7	175	View
2016	5	179	View
2015	7	389	View
2014	10	791	View
2013	9	1,027	View
2012	11	662	View
2011	0	27	View
2010	4	226	View
2009	4	211	View
2008	4	240	View
2007	7	341	View
2006	7	779	View
2005	4	172	View
2004	4	348	View
2003	7	823	View
2002	4	772	View
2001	4	558	View
2000	5	625	View
1999	6	854	View
1998 (current)	5	476
1997	1	105	View
1996	1	185	View
1995	1	142	View
1994	1	36	View
1993	3	90	View
1992	1	60	View
1991	1	30	View
1990	2	50	View
1989	1	0	View
1988	1	0	View

Other VOLKSWAGEN Models

Model	Recalls	Complaints
JETTA	249	14,075	View
GOLF	190	2,084	View
BEETLE	157	3,629	View
GTI	116	1,926	View
ID.4	115	1,606	View
ATLAS	101	2,700	View
TIGUAN	78	3,173	View
ATLAS CROSS SPORT	73	701	View

Vehicle Safety

Consumer Safety

Infrastructure

Public Health

1998 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

EPA Fuel Economy, 1998 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

Technical Service Bulletins, 1998 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT - All Years Overview

VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT - Year by Year

Other VOLKSWAGEN Models