2004 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

4 recalls, 348 complaints - 333 TSBs

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE

Defect Description

The Gates Corporation (Gates) is recalling certain aftermarket Tru-Flow Water Pumps, part number TFW 41127, sold at certain NAPA Auto Parts and/or installed by automotive service technicians after November 1, 2013 (and manufactured August 2013 through October 2013) that have a black-colored pulley/s... Read more

Consequence

A failure of the timing belt may cause the engine to shut down, potentially increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Remedy

Gates will notify owners, and dealers will replace the water pump, free of charge. The recall began during May 2014. Owners may contact The Gates Corporation at 1-303-744-1911.

50 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: The Gates Corporation

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY

Defect Description

VOLKSWAGEN IS RECALLING 412,000 MY 1999-2005 PASSAT (5TH GENERATION) VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS AND PRODUCED AFTER JUNE 14, 1999. THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE AN UNDERBODY HEAT SHIELD THAT CAN BECOME DAMAGED. IN ADDITION, AFFECTED VEHICLES WITH AUTOMATIC OR MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS MAY ... Read more

Consequence

A HEAT SHIELD THAT MAY CONTACT THE EXHAUST SYSTEM CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE. IN ADDITION, A FUEL LEAK FROM A FUEL LINE OR FUEL TANK VENTILATION VALVE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, CAN LEAD TO A VEHICLE FIRE.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL INSTALL ADDITIONAL UNDERBODY HEAT SHIELDS ON VEHICLES WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS TO COVER THE POSSIBLY DAMAGED AREAS AND FLASH ALL 1.8T ENGINES WITH A PRECAUTIONARY SOFTWARE UPDATE. DEALERS WILL ALSO INSPECT AND ADJUST THE FUEL LINE ROUTING ON 1.8T VEHICLES AND THE FUEL TANK VENTILATI... Read more

412,000 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH

Defect Description

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER, WAGON, AND CONVERTIBLE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH OR WITHOUT CRUISE CONTROL, A BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH MAY MALFUNCTION IF IT WAS INSTALLED INCORRECTLY.

Consequence

THE BRAKE LIGHTS COULD BECOME INOPERATIVE, OR REMAIN ON. FAILURE TO PROVIDE THE PROPER SIGNAL WHEN BRAKING COULD LEAD TO A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL INSTALL THE NEWLY DESIGNED BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 27, 2007, AND WILL BE CONDUCTED IN SEVERAL STAGGERED MAILINGS THROUGH SEPTEMBER 21, 2007. VEHICLES WITHIN THE MAKE, MODEL, AND MODEL YEAR OF THIS POPULATION MAY BE INVOLVED IN EITHER THIS RECALL OR... Read more

1,002,000 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC

FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL

Defect Description

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE HIGH PRESSURE DIESEL PUMPS WERE PRODUCED WITH AN IMPROPER FASTENER, WHICH COULD ALLOW DIESEL FUEL TO ESCAPE FROM THE PUMP.

Consequence

FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE MAY LEAD TO A FIRE.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE DIESEL PUMP. THE RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 8, 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT VOLKSWAGEN AT 1-800-822-8987.

19,284 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC

Complaint Statistics

348 total complaints 12 crashes 31 fires 27 injuries

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	33
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION	22
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE	21
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER	20
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	20
ENGINE	18
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE	18
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	16
SEATS	15
STRUCTURE	9

Incident date: Jul 30, 2025

Ive tried to get my recalls fixed since I bought the car 2 years ago, Jeff Wyler Kia Eastgate Ohio has given me the run around, at least 5 attempts of no call backs or prolonged appointment dates not having me on record, my car breaks down I pay for diagnostic blown engine, I pay to have it towed to... Read more

Incident date: Mar 14, 2025

UNKNOWN

Incident date: Sep 19, 2021

The contact owns a 2004 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated that there was gasoline leaking in his driveway where the vehicle was parked, after he had refueled the vehicle the day before. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the mechanic informed the contact that it was a known fai... Read more

Incident date: Sep 12, 2019

WHEN YOU FILL UP THE FUEL TANK IT LEAKS IT LEAKS A QUARTER OF A TANK OF FUEL ROUGHLY 4 TO 5 GALLONS OF FUEL DRIP OUT THERE'S A FACTORY RECALL ON THIS ISSUE I TOOK IT TO THE VOLKSWAGEN DEALER PAID MONEY TO HAVE THEM INSPECT IT AND THEY SAID YES IT'S LEAKING AT THE FACTORY RECALL I'VE HAD AN INDEPENDE... Read more

Incident date: Dec 26, 2020

A COIL FOR HEATED SEATS HAS MELTED A HOLE IN THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT. THIS CAUSED PAIN AND CONFUSION WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY. THE SEAT NOW HAS AN UGLY MELTED HOLE IN IT.

Incident date: Nov 4, 2020

WHILE DRIVING ON A HIGHWAY, THE DRIVER SEAT SUDDENLY OVERHEATED (THE SEAT WARMER WAS TURNED ON). IT STARTED WITH A BURNING SMELL. EXCESSIVE HEAT BURNED MY LEG A BIT (SOME SKIN REDNESS), BEFORE I REALIZED WHAT IS HAPPENING AND TURNED THE SEAT WARMER OFF. THE SEAT LEATHER NOW APPEARS STIFF AND WRINKLE... Read more

1 injured

Incident date: Mar 25, 2020

THE CAR STALLED IN THE ROAD. PULLED OVER. TURNED THE CAR OFF AND IT WOULD NOT RESTART FULL TANK OF GAS.

Incident date: Mar 25, 2020

THE CAR STALLED IN THE ROAD. PULLED OVER. TURNED THE CAR OFF AND IT WOULD NOT RESTART FULL TANK OF GAS.

Incident date: Oct 19, 2019

MY CAR 2004 VW PASSAT ALMOST GETT ON FIRE FRONT PASSANDER SEAT HAVE START TO BURN BUT WAS OK AFTER I SHUTT OFF THE CAR AFTER THAT NOW I CAN DRIVE BUT THE SEAT ITS DEMAGED

Incident date: Oct 19, 2019

MY CAR 2004 VW PASSAT ALMOST GETT ON FIRE FRONT PASSANDER SEAT HAVE START TO BURN BUT WAS OK AFTER I SHUTT OFF THE CAR AFTER THAT NOW I CAN DRIVE BUT THE SEAT ITS DEMAGED

Incident date: Jul 1, 2019

WHILE DRIVING THE CAR AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS IT STALLS AND THE EPC LIGHT COMES ON. THIS HAS HAPPENED MANY TIMES WHILE MERGING WITH OTHER TRAFFIC AND CAN BE VERY DANGEROUS. I HAVE SPENT WELL OVER $1000 TRYING TO GET THIS PROBLEM FIXED, AND THE PROBLEM STILL REMAINS. EVEN THE VW DEALERSHIP DOSE NOT HAVE AN... Read more

Incident date: Nov 2, 2018

STRONG ODOR OF FUEL IN THE CAR REGARDLESS OF BEING PARKED OR MOVING. NOTICED PUDDLE OF GAS ON THE GROUND UNDER THE FUEL TANK. FUEL WAS DRIPPING DOWN OFF THE FUEL TANK AND THE HEAT SHIELDS. FOLLOWED DRIP TO THE ROLLOVER VALVE NIPPLE WHICH IS ATTACHED TO THE GAS TANK.

Incident date: Sep 1, 2018

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. AFTER REFUELING AND PARKING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT LATER DISCOVERED FUEL HAD LEAKED OUT FROM THE VEHICLE ONTO THE FLOOR OF THE GARAGE. FUEL WAS ALSO VISIBLE UNDERNEATH THE REAR SEAT OF THE VEHICLE. UPON INSPECTION, THE CONTACT DISCOVERED THAT FUEL WAS... Read more

Incident date: Aug 1, 2018

STANDING WATER IN DRIVER SIDE AND REAR DRIVER SIDE AREA.

Incident date: Feb 15, 2018

GAS TANK/ FUEL LINE FRACTURE, LEAKING GAS WHEN I FILL IT UP, STRONG GAS SMELL/ODOR. STOPS LEAKING AT AROUND 3/4 TANK. VERY DANGEROUS FOR MY 16 YEAR OLD TO DRIVE. VW DEALERSHIP REFUSED TO CORRECT, WANTS TO CHARGE ME 2600, TO FIX I BOUGHT THE CAR FOR 4200 3 MONTHS AGO.

Incident date: May 11, 2018

GAS FUEL LINE/TANK LEAKING GAS

Incident date: Jun 1, 2018

FUEL TANK LEAK. THERE IS NO DAMAGE NO IMPACT NO VISIBLE EVIDENCE OF ANY MISUSE OF CAR. FUEL TANK LEAKS WHEN FILLED ABOVE 3/4 OF A TANK. THIS IS UNSAFE AND VERY DANGEROUS THIS SHOULD BE REPAIRED BY VOLKSWAGEN. IN ALL MY LIFE AS A MECHANIC I HAVE NEVER SEEN ANYTHING THIS UNSAFE. IF MY LOVED ONES ... Read more

Incident date: Mar 31, 2018

LEAKING AT VENT/TOP OF GAS TANK. EXACTLY THE SAME DESCRIPTION OF THAT PAST HEAT SHEILD/VENT GAS LEAKING RECALL FROM ABOUT 10 YEARS AGO

Incident date: Mar 23, 2018

BOUGHT THIS CAR FROM ORIGINAL OWNER EXACTLY TWO YEARS AGO. ALL RECEIPTS FOR UPKEEP & MAINTENANCE WERE AVAILABLE. CAR RAN GREAT FOR 30,000 MILES. ONE DAY IT STARTING RUNNING BAD WITHIN 30 MINS WHOLE MOTOR SHUT DOWN. MOTOR JUST SHUT DOWN IN MIDDLE OF HIGHWAY. PIECE OF METAL FOUND UNDER VALVE COVER AND... Read more

Incident date: Nov 8, 2017

THE CAR DIED AS I WAS DRIVING DOWN A CITY ROAD, I WAS ABLE TO VEER THE CAR TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AS IT WAS ROLLING BEFORE IT STOPPED COMPLETELY. I HAD THE CAR TOWED BACK TO MY HOUSE AND AFTER TESTING ALL COMPONENTS, IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE CAR WASN'T GETTING ANY FUEL DUE A FAULTY FUEL PUMP.

Incident date: May 18, 2017

TAKATA RECALL COOLANT FLENCH LEAKING, AIR VALVE COVER CAME OFF( LEAKING) AND WATER PUMP, TIMING BELT AND THERMOSTAT NOT WORKING, CANNOT SMOG CAR. ENGINE TROUBLESHOOTING LIGHT COMES BACK ON ALL THE TIME.

Incident date: Feb 28, 2017

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, THE ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED, AND "OIL PRESSURE" AND "STOP ENGINE" MESSAGES DISPLAYED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THERE WAS OIL SLUDGE IN TH... Read more

Incident date: Feb 3, 2017

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V078000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER W... Read more

Incident date: Nov 7, 2016

MY CAR WAS PART OF A RECALL BECAUSE THE DRIVERS SIDE SEAT HEATER WAS OVERHEATING AND MELTING THROUGH THE SEAT. I TOOK MY CAR IN FOR THE RECALL AND THIS ISSUE SHOULD HAVE BEEN RESOLVED. BUT YESTERDAY I HAD THAT EXACT ISSUE - WITHIN 4 TO 5 MINUTES OF TURNING ON MY DRIVERS SIDE SEAT HEATER IT BURNED/ME... Read more

Incident date: Sep 5, 2016

TIRE BUBBLE, 2" WIDE, 2" LONG, 1/2" HIGH

Incident date: Aug 5, 2016

I START THE CAR UP AND IT STARTED MAKING FUNNY NOISE MY CHECK ENGINE LIGH CAME ON THE ENGINE SHAKING ACT LIKE IT'S GOING TO CUT OFF

Incident date: Aug 5, 2016

I START THE CAR UP AND IT STARTED MAKING FUNNY NOISE MY CHECK ENGINE LIGH CAME ON THE ENGINE SHAKING ACT LIKE IT'S GOING TO CUT OFF

Incident date: Jul 24, 2016

THE PLASTIC UNDERDASH COWLING CAN BECOME WARPED OVER TIME AND FALL DOWN ON THE BRAKE PEDAL CAUSING THE CAR TO STOP OR TRIGGER THE ABS SYSTEM WHEN NOT NEEDED.

Incident date: Feb 19, 2015

MY GAS GAUGE IS NOT WORKING AND I ALWAYS SMEEL GAS WHILE RIDING IN MY CAR.

Incident date: Feb 13, 2016

MY VEHICLE HAS BEEN NOTHING BUT A NIGHTMARE! FIRST THE THERMOSTAT HOUSING BROKE GOT THAT FIXED AND THEN EVERYTHING ELSE WENT DOWN HILL! OIL PRESSURE LIGHT STARTED GOING AND THEN IT STARTED OVERHEATING. THE HOSES ALL BREAK AND LEAK THE COOLANT OUT PLUS THE TRANSMISSION CODE P742 WHICH THE TRANSMISSIO... Read more

Incident date: Feb 13, 2016

Incident date: Feb 3, 2016

PURCHASED A USED 2004 VW PASSAT GLX 4MOTION WITH 91K MILES AND NO ACCIDENT OR DAMAGE HISTORY PER CARFAX.. FIRST FILL OF THE GAS TANK REVEALED A SEVERE LEAK OF GREATER THAN 180 DROPS PER MINUTE. THE LEAK OCCURRED AT ALL TIMES WITH THE CAR RUNNING OR TURNED OFF AND THE KEY REMOVED. THE LEAK STOPPED... Read more

Incident date: Oct 5, 2015

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL TANK NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICE... Read more

Incident date: Nov 15, 2015

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. WHEN STARTING THE VEHICLE, IT JERKED AND THE ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED INTERMITTENTLY. THE FAILURE RECURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ENGINE AND COOLING PUMP NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHIC... Read more

Incident date: May 7, 2014

THE PASSAT IGNITED IN OUR DRIVEWAY AT 4:00 A.M. IT HAD NOT BEEN STARTED/DRIVEN IN A WEEK. WE WOKE TO THE SOUND OF THE TIRE BURSTING. THERE IS A HOUSTON POLICE DEPARTMENT /ARSON CASE # [XXX] - PHONE # [XXX]. INSPECTOR [XXX]. HE SAID THE IGNITION AREA OF THE CAR WAS THE START OF THE FIRE. I THINK... Read more

Fire

Incident date: May 7, 2014

Fire

Incident date: May 7, 2014

Fire

Incident date: Jan 5, 2015

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. WHILE PUMPING FUEL INTO THE VEHICLE, THE STRONG ODOR OF FUEL WAS PRESENT. IN ADDITION, WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE ODOR WAS STILL PRESENT. THE FAILURE RECURRED CONSTANTLY. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL TANK VENTILATION VALVE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. TH... Read more

Incident date: May 20, 2014

IGNITION COIL HAS FAILED 3 TIMES IN LAST 12 MONTHS.

Incident date: Mar 8, 2015

MARCH 8 AT APPROXIMATELY 10PM: ON A TRIP BACK FROM OUT OF TOWN WITH MY 2 YOUNG CHILDREN AND PUPPY, THE RPMS IN THE VW PASSAT BEGAN ESCALATING YET NO ADDITIONAL POWER WAS COMING INTO THE ENGINE. I TRIED SHIFTING TO A LOWER GEAR AND ALSO ATTEMPTED CRUISE CONTROL TO MINIMIZE THE RPM RACING. CRUISE C... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Dec 7, 2014

I NOTICED THERE WAS A CONSIDERABLE AMOUNT OF WATER ON THE PASSENGER SIDE CARPETING. I CHECKED ALL DRAINAGE LOCATIONS FOR BLOCKAGE (I.E. PLENUM, SUNROOF). ALL WERE CLEAR. THE WATER FOUND IT'S WAY INTO THE VEHICLE BY WAY OF A FAULTY (DISINTEGRATED) SEAL BENEATH THE POLLEN FILTER HOUSING. THE CAR HAD 9... Read more

Incident date: Feb 22, 2015

2004 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT 4MOTION, THE FUEL TANK ROLLOVER/VENT VALVE ON THE TOP OF THE TANK HAS CRACKED AND IS LEAKING GASOLINE ONTO THE EXHAUST SYSTEM. THE TANK WAS FILLED UP ON 2/22/2015 AND STARTED LEAKING LARGE AMOUNTS OF FUEL FROM THE TOP OF THE TANK OVER THE EXHAUST. THIS CONTINUED UNTIL THE TANK... Read more

Incident date: Nov 27, 2014

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 15 MPH, AN UNUSUAL SOUND WAS HEARD AND SMOKE STARTED TO EMIT FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AS THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER WHERE THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE TIMING BELT HAD BECOME FRACT... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Sep 15, 2014

FUEL BEGAN LEAKING FROM THE TOP OF THE FUEL TANK AFTER FILL UP. MY DAUGHTER WAS HEADING BACK TO COLLEGE, AND AS SHE PULLED AWAY I NOTICED A LARGE PUDDLE OF GASOLINE IN THE STREET. NHTSA HAD PREVIOUSLY RECALLED THE VEHICLE IN 2008 (26E5/R5) ACTION NUMBER (PE08008). VW DEALER INSPECTED AND INSTALLE... Read more

Incident date: Aug 2, 2014

VEHICLE: 2004 VW PASSAT 4MOTION SEDAN W/1.8L TURBO, AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FILLED VEHICLES FUEL TANK, NOTICED STRONG GASOLINE SMELL INSIDE VEHICLE, NOTICED FUEL DRIPPING FROM FUEL TANK OF VEHICLE TO GROUND. CANNOT FILL TANK WITHOUT GAS DRIPPING TO GROUND; FUEL LEAK IS NEXT TO EXHAUST SYSTEM UNDERNE... Read more

Incident date: Jun 27, 2012

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, THE ENGINE STALLED. THE VEHICLE COASTED TO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD. THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESTART AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO REPLACED THE RADIATOR,... Read more

Incident date: Aug 4, 2014

POSSIBLE CAM TENSIONER THAT CAUSES THE CAR TO MAKE A LOUD CLICKING NOISE AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT IS ON AS A RESULT. TOOK IT TO 3 MECHANICS AND DID A DIAGNOSTIC BUT COULD NOT FIND THE PROBLEM. HELP ME PLEASE! *TR

Incident date: Jul 24, 2014

I BEGAN NOTICING A VERY STRONG SMELL OF GASOLINE COMING THROUGH THE VENT WHILE DRIVING. WHEN I PULLED OVER TO CHECK UNDER THE HOOD, I NOTICED THAT THE RIGID FUEL LINE HAD CRACKED WHERE IT PASSED THROUGH A MOUNTING BRACKET ON THE UPPER REAR OF THE ENGINE BAY. THE CRACK WAS EMITTING A STEADY FLOW OF F... Read more

Incident date: Aug 17, 2014

I WAS DRIVING MY CAR TO HAVE DINNER WITH MY DAUGHTER AND THE CAR STARTED LOSING POWER. IT WAS ONLY A 4 MINUTE TRIP AND BY THE TIME I GOT TO MY DAUGHTER'S DRIVEWAY, THE ENGINE WAS SMOKING. AFTER USING A HOSE TO COOL OFF THE HOOD, THE HOOD WAS POPPED AND THERE WAS A FIRE ON THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE ... Read more

Fire

Showing 50 of 348 complaints.

EPA Fuel Economy, 2004 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

Trim / Engine	City MPG	Highway MPG	Combined MPG	Fuel Type	Annual Fuel Cost
1.8L 4-cyl, Manual 5-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	19.0	28.0	23.0	Premium	$3,300
1.8L 4-cyl, Automatic (S5) (Front-Wheel Drive)	19.0	28.0	22.0	Premium	$3,450
2.8L 6-cyl, Manual 5-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	17.0	26.0	20.0	Premium	$3,800
2.8L 6-cyl, Automatic (S5) (Front-Wheel Drive)	17.0	25.0	20.0	Premium	$3,800
2.0L 4-cyl, Automatic (S5) (Front-Wheel Drive)	23.0	34.0	27.0	Diesel	$2,950

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, 2004 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

333 manufacturer communications from 197 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL	34
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	31
350000 EQUIPMENT	30
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	16
060000 ENGINE (PWS)	15
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE	14
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER	14
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE	13

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.

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

This bulletin contains general instructions for software updates.

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.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Update model applicability to MY 2020.

350000 EQUIPMENT

Update model applicability to MY 2020.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Update to Volkswagen engine oil standards.

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

Include new special tool adapter and 2018 model year Jetta only

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

Update to mode; and model year applicability.

350000 EQUIPMENT

Update to Volkswagen engine oil standards.

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

Update to Volkswagen engine oil standards.

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Parts are currently blocked from sale at this time.

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

Update to Volkswagen engine oil standards.

350000 EQUIPMENT

Include additional photo's of water ingress. Also includes 2018-2020 Tiguan LWB

350000 EQUIPMENT

TT 001202........Also includes 2005 Jetta wagon and 2018-2020 Tiguan LWB

350000 EQUIPMENT

Quick Reference Update Guide.

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

Update to Volkswagen engine oil standards. Also includes 2004 and 2005 Jetta Wagon and 2018-2020 Tiguan LWB

350000 EQUIPMENT

REMOVED all 12 hour wait period before starting references. ADDED EFB to "Select correct battery type" in bottom box. Also Jetta Wagon 2005 and 2018-2020 Tiguan LWB.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Update vehicle metadata to include pull ahead models. Also includes R32 2002-2007 and 2002-2006 Jetta Wagon.

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

Engine oil quality standards. Also includes all models for 1997-2003. Also Rabbit from 2006-2009.

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

Remote Key Battery Replacement

350000 EQUIPMENT

Remote Key Battery Replacement

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

Update vehicle metadata.

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

Update vehicle metadata.

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

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Gasoline Engine Misfire Diagnosis document

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.

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

Update vehicle metadata.

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

Engine replacement tip

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

To include an additional model year applicability.

350000 EQUIPMENT

To include an additional model year applicability.

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

Update content and include additional models and model year applicability.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This information bulletin contains instructions for checking the pins/terminals for contacts and nano contacts.

113000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLY

Installation of original remote start feature accessory

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

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

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

Update to model year applicability.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Update to model year applicability.

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

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

Quick Reference of vehicle concerns. Includes a list of Software versions and the technical bulletin numbers that referred to the concerns Updated

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.

350000 EQUIPMENT

Reminder for dealers to reference the repair manual and replace all necessary fasteners (bolts, nuts) that cannot be re-used

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

Update to model year applicability.

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

Update to include additional model year applicability.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Update model and 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.

160000 STRUCTURE

Contacting the parts helpline

350000 EQUIPMENT

Contacting the parts helpline

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

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

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 claiming process statement.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

To update claim processing statement.

161000 STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS

TO UPDATE CLAIM PROCESSING STATEMENT.

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

Quick Reference Update Guide of the vehicles expected upgraded software level. The latest corresponding technical bulletins that address the issues, and concerns that have been had with the vehicles.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECH TIP DENOTING POTENTIAL FOR DAMAGE OF THE DATA LINK CONNECTOR WHEN USING AFTER MARKET PLUG IN DEVICES OR SCAN TOOLS AND SUBSEQUENT DIAGNOSTIC DIRECTION.

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

TECH TIP DENOTING POTENTIAL FOR DAMAGE OF THE DATA LINK CONNECTOR WHEN USING AFTER MARKET PLUG IN DEVICES OR SCAN TOOLS AND SUBSEQUENT DIAGNOSTIC DIRECTION.

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

Technical Bulletin about Paint Finish, Reducing Swirl Marks and Fine Scratches New vehicles (prior to Retail Delivery) with swirl marks and or fine scratches from polishing or cleaning. The document also have infromation about where to fi

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Tech Tips Damage to Data Link Connector (DLC) from Aftermarket Devices (Cannot Communicate with Vehicle OBD System)

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.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Fuel Additive to Help Prevent Sporadic Misfire Faults

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

Quick Reference of vehicle concerns. Includes a list of Software versions and the technical bulletin numbers that referred to the concerns Updated

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Quick reference update guide.

200000 WHEELS

Document discusses issues with The wheel liner touches the arch area of the fender and rubs off the paint in the contact area. The corrosion is caused by dirt accumulations and movements of the wheel liner. It discusses how to service the

200000 WHEELS

Corrosion on wheel arch.

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Technical tips on what to do if improper gasoline has been added to the vehicle.

061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE

Gasoline quality.

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 (HVAC, Unpleasant Odor): Unpleasant odor is coming from Heating and Ventilation system. Odor mainly occurs after vehicle has been sitting (unused) at least 5 hours and within 20 to 60 seconds after vehicle is first start

350000 EQUIPMENT

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

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

Technical Bulletin: Battery, Discharged, Diagnosis for Excessive Static Current Draw

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

Showing 100 of 333 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 (current)	4	348
2003	7	823	View
2002	4	772	View
2001	4	558	View
2000	5	625	View
1999	6	854	View
1998	5	476	View
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

2004 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

EPA Fuel Economy, 2004 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

Technical Service Bulletins, 2004 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT - All Years Overview

VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT - Year by Year

Other VOLKSWAGEN Models