2016 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

5 recalls, 179 complaints - 1,159 TSBs - 5/5 safety rating

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Defect Description

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2017 Touareg GP, Tiguan, Golf A6, E-Golf GP, CCF, 2016-2017 Passat GP, 2018-2019 Golf R GP, and 2018 Atlas vehicles. These internal-use vehicles were sold without confirmation that they were built to all applicable regulatory requi... Read more

Consequence

Vehicles that do not meet all regulatory requirements may have an increased risk of injury, crash, or fire.

Remedy

Volkswagen will repurchase the vehicles. Owner notification letters were mailed May 20, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 01F1.

46 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Defect Description

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Volkswagen Golf R and Atlas, 2017 Golf Alltrack and E-Golf and 2016-2018 Passat vehicles. These internal use vehicles were sold without confirmation that they were built to all applicable regulatory requirements and may have b... Read more

Consequence

Vehicles that do not meet all regulatory requirements may have an increased risk of a crash or injury to vehicle occupants.

Remedy

Volkswagen will notify owners and will repurchase the vehicles. The recall began October 6, 2020. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 01E9.

23 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

Defect Description

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2012-2020 Volkswagen Passat and 2018-2019 Atlas vehicles. The blocking cap disabling the adjustment of the headlight's horizontal aim may not have been installed. As such, these vehicles fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Sa... Read more

Consequence

Without the blocking cap, the headlight aim can be adjusted out of specification, reducing visibility and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, block the headlight horizontal adjustment, free of charge. The recall began July 16, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 94L9.

662,185 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM:FUEL RAIL

Defect Description

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2016 Jetta vehicles manufactured October 31, 2015, to January 21, 2016, 2016 Passat vehicles, equipped with 1.8T engines manufactured November 13, 2015, to December 9, 2015, and 2016 Golf vehicles manufactured November 5,... Read more

Consequence

A fuel leak, in the presence of an ignition source, can result in a vehicle fire.

Remedy

Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the cylinder heads, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-822-8987. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 15F7.

55 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM

Defect Description

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Jetta, Beetle, Beetle Convertible, Passat, Golf and Golf SportWagen vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the camshaft lobe that drives the brake vacuum pump may shear off, resulting in a loss of brake assist.

Consequence

If the camshaft lobe shears off there would be a loss of brake assist, lengthening the distance needed to stop the vehicle and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Volkswagen dealer will update the engine control module (ECM) software. The recall began March 2016. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-822-8987. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 23R1.

91,867 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.

Complaint Statistics

179 total complaints 9 crashes 6 injuries

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	23
ENGINE	19
SERVICE BRAKES	15
STEERING	15
AIR BAGS	14
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	14
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	12
POWER TRAIN	10
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL	10
EXTERIOR LIGHTING	6

Incident date: May 1, 2026

Car jerks and temp gadgets jumps too high. Message reads high coolant temperature.

Incident date: May 1, 2026

Car jerks and temp gadgets jumps too high. Message reads high coolant temperature.

Incident date: May 1, 2026

Car jerks and temp gadgets jumps too high. Message reads high coolant temperature.

Incident date: Dec 1, 2025

Back up camera does not display or turn on. There has been no damage to the vehicle but radio which includes the back up camera do not turn on or function. This is a safety hazard for this car when backing up.

Incident date: Dec 15, 2025

The vehicle display flashed red and then the vehicle turned off completely while in traffic with no ability to change gear, operate the electronic door releases, or turn the hazards on. Safety was put at risk because insufficient notice of failure was given so it was impossible to get out of traffic... Read more

Incident date: Nov 1, 2025

The contact owns a 2008 Chevrolet HHR. The contact stated that the key was stuck in the ignition switch and failed to release. Additionally, the TPMS warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, who confirmed that the key was stuck and needed to be broken, and any damage... Read more

Incident date: Jul 1, 2025

Tuesday, September 30 at 8:07 PM I was merging onto the interstate after work and my car would not accelerate properly to allow me to merge with the traffic. This happens way more than it should. Since I got this vehicle it has been doing this and scaring my entire family every time. It happens in c... Read more

Incident date: Jul 1, 2025

Today I was driving on my road and there are small hills. I was going around a curve i take every single morning and my car kicks really hard as if it is having trouble changing gears. sometimes it makes loud noise. This has been happening for years now and Honda is not addressing it. There is an i... Read more

Incident date: Jul 1, 2025

The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact stated that at start-up, the fuel gauge indicated that the fuel tank was on empty, even though the fuel tank was full. Additionally, the check engine warning light remained illuminated, with the message “Fuel Sensor Failure” displayed. The local deal... Read more

Incident date: Apr 1, 2025

The contact owns a 2017 Ford Escape. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with a coolant leak and engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be re... Read more

Incident date: Jan 1, 2020

Answers to specific questions above: *Head gasket, coolant, engine failure *A running engine/coolant/and head gaskets are valuable to a vehicle to operate *Confirmed by an independent service center *Not inspected by manufacturer, police, or insurance. When I got the first notification of a coolant ... Read more

Incident date: Jul 3, 2025

There is an active recall on my truck and it is affecting my ability to use my truck for work purposes. I am not allowed to used a vehicle with an open, active recall, therefore I cannot use my truck. This recall has been active for more than six months and a remedy has not yet been identified. I a... Read more

Incident date: Jan 4, 2025

The contact owns a 2019 Ford Edge. The contact stated while driving at slow speeds on several occasions, the vehicle started shuddering, and the RPM fluctuated while shifting gear. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and determined that the spark plugs, and the i... Read more

Incident date: Jan 4, 2025

The MMI restarts constantly every day sometimes multiple times within minutes of each other. There is no correlation with other vehicle feature or functions that cause these restarts to happen and they are not in any specific pattern . When the MMI system reboots, the rearview camera and parking s... Read more

Incident date: Feb 2, 2023

THE ADAS SYSTEM IS MALFUNCTIONING, IT KEPT BLINKING WARNING SIGNS ALL AT THE SAME TIME.

Incident date: Feb 15, 2025

I was driving on I 95 and my check engine light came on, then the transmission light came on followed by No hill assist light.As I was driving home all of a sudden without warning my SUV dropped to 10 miles an hour while driving at at speed of 55 miles per hour.. For safety reasons I pulled over ... Read more

Incident date: Feb 28, 2025

The center brake light went out on my Jeep around 30000 miles. I don’t know when it went out, but it’s an obvious safety concern and common problem with Jeep Gladiator’s. My vehicle is outside warranty of warranty, but a search of a Jeep forum reveals the dealers covered some folks under warr... Read more

Incident date: Feb 28, 2025

Incident date: Jan 7, 2025

I have 9,500 miles on my car and within the last week every time I make a turn (either direction) there is a very loud clicking/grinding noise coming from the CV Axel. I’ve noticed it’s a common theme for Prologues & have been told it’s safe to drive but there are currently no remedies for thi... Read more

Incident date: Nov 1, 2024

The contact owns a 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V720000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. ... Read more

Incident date: Oct 1, 2024

I read that there is a recall on 2021/2022 Fords with Eco Boost but not the 2020. I have had my vehicle into the dealership multiple times due to misfires and loss of all power which has almost caused multiple accidents on the interstate. I accelerate to get into the left lane and lose all power and... Read more

Incident date: Aug 1, 2024

For the third time in that last 5 weeks, I turned on my Kia EV9, and the digital cluster is blank. I cannot see my speed, battery power remaining, lane change cameras, turn signals, headlight information, etc.

Incident date: Aug 1, 2024

I am dealing with my 3rd clogged fuel injector. My car lost power, starting shaking and wouldn’t accelerate. The engine light went on when it happened, not before. The first time I was on the highway, second time on a major thoroughfare. Not places where I could just pull over. Very scary. I got ... Read more

Incident date: Aug 1, 2024

Incident date: Jun 22, 2024

My Tacoma SR5 with only 6000 miles of use failed the transmission or automatic gearbox when I was going on the highway hitting the transmission and neutralizing on several occasions having to exit the service channel abruptly so as not to get stranded in the middle of the highway and cause an accide... Read more

Incident date: Jul 16, 2024

Motor mounts leaking, car at only 45K miles Audi dealer indicates fix will be ~$3,200 Many posts online (AudiWorld discussion forums, etc.) - many drivers encountering issue at even fewer mileage Concerning that there was no warning on vehicle

Incident date: Jul 16, 2024

Coolant Leak into the engine due to a known design defect as documented in TSB-22-2229. Ford purposely stalls diagnosis until the engine is out of warranty and then sticks the customer with the cost of replacement.

Incident date: Jul 16, 2024

1. Dashboard showed multiple system failures. Already sent to dealership and taking a look. They determined that it was the high pressure fuel pump. I saw there were previous recalls for it. Wanted to make sure that no other cars are effected. 2. The car completely stopped in the middle of the road... Read more

Incident date: May 20, 2023

I can smell fuel inside my vehicle after my vehicle idles for 15-20 minutes. No visible leak on the ground, but fumes permeate my vehicle and have caused headaches to begin with my vehicle occupants and myself. I have noticed after driving and I park inside my garage, I can smell fuel as well, but n... Read more

Incident date: May 20, 2023

Incident date: Apr 8, 2024

Hitting bump or random moments (intermittent). The ABS module comes up with code C0020-01 for ABS Pump Module General Electrical Fault. Truck loses ABS, Traction Control, as well as Cruise Control. Vehicles Odo is 7284 miles.

Incident date: Apr 8, 2024

The contact owns a 2019 Ram 1500. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the transmission became stuck in third gear with the check engine warning light illuminated. Additionally, while driving the vehicle there was a loud clunking sound coming from the transmission while shifting ge... Read more

Incident date: Apr 8, 2024

Incident date: Jan 31, 2023

On the middle of the road when driving, of a sudden, powertrain malfunction, pre-collision not available message pop up and the service light, check engine light also started blinking on the dashboard. Gas pedal was unresponsive and the truck coasted, was not able to drive,and I was luckily able to ... Read more

Incident date: Feb 18, 2024

The vehicle's primary Autopilot processor randomly and completely failed while in active use on February 10th, causing the vehicle to immediately change course towards a highway barrier at high speed. Since that moment, every time the Autopilot DAS computer is reset, the primary processor refuses to... Read more

Incident date: Oct 18, 2023

On [XXX], I was driving southbound on the highway near Elizabeth City, NC when all of a sudden, my vehicle decelerated from 65 mph to 20 mph (limp mode) with no warning except for the sudden onset of a knocking noise in the engine compartment and the check engine light coming on immediately before e... Read more

Incident date: Oct 18, 2023

The car gave me electrical malfunction warning while driving on the highway, then all the screens turned black, and the car completely shut down while driving. The steering was still working, although heavier than usual, and the breaking also worked. The car slow down to a complete stop at the shoul... Read more

Incident date: Dec 1, 2023

The contact owns a 2019 Honda Odyssey. The contact was notified that the VIN was included in the NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V215000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The contacts wife contacted the dealer to have the recall repaired. However, the dealer asked the contacts wife if the vehicle was having any is... Read more

Incident date: Dec 1, 2023

A few times I have pressed the brakes when coming to a red light and stop signs But instead of my vehicle stopping it propelled me forward as it excellerated out of no where and pushed me into oncoming traffic, I almost was hit by other cars and I almost hit other cars and even have had to swerve on... Read more

2 injured

Incident date: Oct 1, 2023

We could not locate an active coolant leak for almost two months (brought to several mechanics.) Added dye to the coolant and it showed in the oil. Waited over a month for an appointment with the dealership and was finally told that it was a bad Head/Head Gasket, Oil pump and would also need a new... Read more

Incident date: Oct 1, 2023

The contact owns a 2016 Ram 1500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V406000 (Fuel System, Diesel) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated upon starting the vehicle, the engine power was reduced. A... Read more

Incident date: Oct 1, 2023

Incident date: Sep 15, 2023

My 2016 Fusion Hybrid SE. All SYNC related functions ceased to function . Cant use bluetooth. cant do voice commands. USB is not working and not charging. Radio works fine, but phone button does nothing; menu button does nothing; voice command button on steering wheel does nothing. This is a safety... Read more

Incident date: Sep 15, 2023

The contact owns a 2023 Cadillac Lyriq. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, the surround vision feature failed to detect nearby objects. The contact stated that the Autonomous Self Driving warning and the Forward Collision Avoidance Adaptive Cruise Control warning lights were illuminated. The v... Read more

Incident date: Aug 8, 2023

The contact owns a 2023 Ford F-350 SD. The contact stated while driving 50 MPH, the diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) message was displayed; with the “Default See Owner’s Manual” displayed. The contact pulled over to the side of the roadway and turned off and restarted the vehicle, and the vehicle fa... Read more

Incident date: Jul 2, 2023

Have tried repeatedly to get the CPV recall performed however all dealerships or authorized repair locations have been giving me multi month waits since it started showing the alarm code for it in Dec. 2021. Due to it being the only vehicle my family has we were out in a wait list to bring it in whe... Read more

Incident date: Jul 2, 2023

Incident date: May 20, 2020

While driving at highway speeds (50mph-80mph), on 2 lane or 4 lane highways, in the day or night, in sunny conditions and overcast sky's, while using the cruise control (auto-pilot), the car will suddenly and unexpectedly apply the brakes. It happens between 8 and 10 times on every road trip, each ... Read more

Incident date: May 20, 2020

Gas tank leak from under heat Shield Recall claims in 2012 it was extended for 15 years

Showing 50 of 179 complaints.

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2016 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

2016 Volkswagen Passat 4 DR FWD

Category	Rating
Overall Rating	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Frontal Crash	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Frontal Crash, Driver	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Frontal Crash, Passenger	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Side Crash	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Side Crash, Driver	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Side Crash, Passenger	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Rollover	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Rollover Risk	10.7%

Safety Technology

Feature	Status
Electronic Stability Control	Standard
Forward Collision Warning	Optional
Lane Departure Warning	Optional

Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings Program. Ratings are based on crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

EPA Fuel Economy, 2016 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

Trim / Engine	City MPG	Highway MPG	Combined MPG	Fuel Type	Annual Fuel Cost
3.6L 6-cyl, Automatic (AM-S6) (Front-Wheel Drive)	20.0	28.0	23.0	Regular	$2,650
1.8L 4-cyl, Automatic (S6) (Front-Wheel Drive)	25.0	36.0	29.0	Regular	$2,100

CO2 Emissions: 390.0 g/mile (Midsize Cars)

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

Technical Service Bulletins, 2016 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

1,159 manufacturer communications from 616 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
350000 EQUIPMENT	153
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL	133
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	94
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	82
060000 ENGINE (PWS)	66
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE	55
353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL	53
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER	45

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

VW Engine oil quality standards

061500 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION

VW Engine oil quality standards

140110 AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE

Grinding noises can be heard from the area of the steering wheel/driver airbag or steering column when maneuvering OR Various controls, warnings or fault indicators, such as airbag, electronic stabilization programming (ESP), steering assis

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Multiples campaign closures: 37L3, 37L7, 96D6, 51G4, 60D8, 06A2, 19O6, 40M3 and 97AM.

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

VW Engine oil quality standards

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

VW Engine oil quality standards

138410 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:COMPRESSOR:CLUTCH

A/C Compressor leak diagnosis

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

A/C Compressor leak diagnosis

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

Addressing Cybersecurity or Vehicle Hack concerns

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Airbag / Pyrotechnic Safety Belt Deployment Inquiries, update to contact information due to retirement.

140010 AIR BAGS:CRITICAL FASTENERS

Rear of teering wheel trim modification for noise when maneuvering.

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Rear of teering wheel trim modification for noise when maneuvering.

011000 STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR

Rear of teering wheel trim modification for noise when maneuvering.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

VW Engine oil quality standards

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

VW Engine oil quality standards

138000 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM

Reporting procedure for A/C compressor replacement regardless of the reason for failure. Update to model year applicability and new warranty GFF labor operation number

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

3G Sunset Update

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

VW Engine oil quality standards

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

VW Engine oil quality standards

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

Battery Testing and Charging Using Midtronics VAS6161 and or GRX3000VAS Charger. Update Tool terminology

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Safety Related Inquiry and Reporting

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Update to Volkswagen engine oil standards

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Helpline & Parts Dept. contact information.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Diagnostic assistance for excessive static current draw

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Volkswagen Engine oil quality standards, update to attachments.

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

This communication is a notice for software changes with the ODIS program for specific cars.

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

Battery Testing and Charging using Midtronics VAS6161 and or GRX3000 Vas Charger

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Battery Testing and Charging using Midtronics VAS6161 and or GRX3000 Vas Charger

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

Software Version Management (SVM) instruction.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Correct engine oil level during Perfect Delivery Inspection (PDI)

103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

Automatic Transmission Fluid Requirements

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Volkswagen Engine Oil Standards, updated to include model year 2024.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Volkswagen Engine Oil Standards, updated to include model year 2024.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Engine Oil Consumption Measurement Instruction and Work sheet.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Engine Oil Consumption Measurement Instruction and Work sheet.

061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE

Gasoline quality information in regards to gasoline engine performance.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Gasoline quality information in regards to gasoline engine performance.

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Gasoline fuel additive

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Diagnostic Aid for engine misfire.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Noise Diagnostic for Manual Transmission vehicles.

102000 POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION

Noise Diagnostic for Manual Transmission vehicles.

061500 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION

Volkswagen Engine oil quality standards, update to attachments.

062000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM

Introduce new engine coolant compatible with all models and all model years.

355100 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

Battery adaptation procedure when battery label is missing.

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

Battery adaptation procedure when battery label is missing.

010000 STEERING

This Document was revised. The model year chat was removed for VWP-18-11 for the Steering Wheel Clock Spring Limited Warranty Extension

061500 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION

Engine oil quality standards, update to attachments.

061500 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION

Volkswagen Engine Oil Quality Standards

112000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR

Generator Replacement

140000 AIR BAGS

In conjunction with the New Mexico DMV, Volkswagen will be sending Takata airbag recall reminder notices to approximately 363 Volkswagen owners in the State of New Mexico on March 13, 2023.

160000 STRUCTURE

Strut or Shock leak assessment.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

This Document informs dealers on VWP-23-01

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Engine Oil Quality Standards updated to include the latest Engine Oil attachments (excludes Routan & ID.4).

150000 SEAT BELTS

VW contact when reporting a Airbag or Pyrotechnic safety belt deployment. Update to model year applicability.

140000 AIR BAGS

VW contact when reporting a Airbag or Pyrotechnic safety belt deployment. Update to model year applicability.

353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.

Radio knob replacement instead of radio replacement w/ knob part number.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Engine Oil Quality Standards updated to include the latest Engine Oil attachments (excludes Routan & ID.4).

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Required Alignment Submission form.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Engine Oil Quality Standards updated to include the latest Engine Oil attachments (excludes Routan & ID.4).

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.

263000 FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL

ACC Calibration Process

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

A/C requirements, update to model year applicability.

138000 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM

A/C requirements, update to model year applicability.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Instruction for set-up of SD creator to obtain Software updates. Bulletin updated to include additional certificate information.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Engine Oil Quality Standards updated to include the latest Engine Oil attachments (excludes Routan & ID.4).

280100 BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE

Instruction for set-up of SD creator to obtain Software updates. Bulletin updated to include additional model year applicability.

061500 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION

Engine Oil Quality Standards updated to include the latest Engine Oil ) excluding Routan & ID.4attachments. (excludes Routan & ID.4)

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

Battery adaptation when battery labels are missing. Update to model year applicability.

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

DTC's P053F,P0087, P0088, P1025 may set due to the high pressure fuel pump being out of time (sync).

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Update warranty table labor operation numbers due to recent Saga updates.

160000 STRUCTURE

update to required vehicle wash shampoo.

061500 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION

Engine Oil Quality Standards updated to include the latest Engine Oil attachments. (excludes Routan & ID.4)

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Update warranty table labor operation numbers due to recent Saga updates.

102000 POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION

Manual transmission noise diagnostic assistance

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Minimum battery charger requirements during software updates

138000 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM

Additional instruction before replacing A/C compressor. Updated to include additional model and model year applicability.

350000 EQUIPMENT

Engine Oil Quality Standards updated to include the latest Engine Oil attachments. (excludes Routan & ID.4)

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Engine Oil Quality Standards updated to include the latest Engine Oil attachments. (excludes Routan & ID.4)

140000 AIR BAGS

In conjunction with the Georgia Department of Revenue - Motor Vehicle Division and Department of Driver Services, Volkswagen sent Takata airbag recall reminder notices to approximately 158 Volkswagen owners in the State of Puerto Rico on Ju

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

This document outlines updates to the ODIS diagnostic software. Updates include corrected diagnostic test plans for the stated vehicles.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This document outlines updates to the ODIS diagnostic software. Updates include corrected diagnostic test plans for the stated vehicles.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Engine Oil Quality Standards updated to include model year 2023 and the latest Engine Oil attachments. (excludes Routan & ID.4)

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Engine oil consumption measurement.

061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE

Gasoline quality check. Update to model and model year applicability.

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Gasoline quality check. Update to model and model year applicability.

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Gasoline quality check. Update to model and model year applicability.

030000 BRAKES (PWS)

Brake Rotor, Vibration / Pulsation. Addition of mandatory brake form and reference to Volkswagen Warranty Policy and Procedures Manual.

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Software Version Management (SVM) instruction. Update to require 70amp minimum battery charger during procedure.

119111 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY:MANAGEMENT SYSTEM/ENERGY CONTROL MODULE (BMS/BECM):SOFTWARE

Software Version Management (SVM) instruction. Update to require 70amp minimum battery charger during procedure.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This Document informs dealers on VWP-22-06. Revised to reflect the Vehicle Eligibility

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This Document informs dealers on VWP-22-06. Revised to reflect the Vehicle Eligibility

350000 EQUIPMENT

This special notice is to inform dealers to return the parts listed if it meets the criteria provided.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Engine misfire diagnostic aid.

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Gasoline quality.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

VW engine oil specifications. Update to model year applicability.

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

VW engine oil specifications. Update to model year applicability.

100000 POWER TRAIN

Auto Trans fluid requirements.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Recommended fuel additive to avoid engine misfires.

061500 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION

Checking engine oil during PDI.

Showing 100 of 1,159 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 (current)	5	179
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	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

2016 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2016 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

Safety Technology

EPA Fuel Economy, 2016 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

Technical Service Bulletins, 2016 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT - All Years Overview

VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT - Year by Year

Other VOLKSWAGEN Models