Volkswagen Passat Common Problems & Known Faults (UK)
If you are considering buying a used Volkswagen Passat, there are several major reliability issues worth knowing about first. Our garage database tracks 25 known faults for this model, 18 of them rated high severity. Every one below is a repair bill a seller has good reason not to mention.
Free advert check
Found a Volkswagen Passat for sale?
Paste the advert and we read it against these 25 known faults, its MOT history and the DVLA record, and tell you what the seller has not. Free, about a minute, no card.
Works with any listing: paste the text from AutoTrader, Gumtree, eBay, Facebook Marketplace or a dealer’s own site.
Generation 1 of 44 known faults · 1 owner report · 21 good notes
Volkswagen Passat B5 (1997 to 2005) problems
ElectricalHigh severity📝 Editorial
Blocked plenum chamber drains (especially under the battery) leading to water ingress, which can damage the ECU, cause electrical failures, and flood the footwells.
Rough guide
£500-2000+
Typical symptoms
Damp or wet carpets in the front footwells
Intermittent electrical faults or warning lights
Engine cutting out or running poorly (due to ECU damage)
Water sloshing sound from under the dashboard
Affected vehicles
Engines:
All engines
Typical mileage:
Any mileage miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
SuspensionHigh severity📝 Editorial
Corroded rear brake seals and failing front suspension wishbones, typically at around four years old. This was subject to multiple worldwide recalls.
Rough guide
£500-700
Typical symptoms
Clunking or knocking noises from the front suspension
Vague or imprecise steering
Uneven tyre wear
Reduced braking efficiency (due to corroded brake seals)
Affected vehicles
Engines:
All engines
Typical mileage:
40000-60000 miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
ElectricalHigh severity📝 Editorial
Water ingress from blocked plenum chamber drains can perforate the brake servo, causing brake failure or reduced assistance, and can also damage the ECU and flood footwells. A TSB (51B8) was issued to address this.
Rough guide
£980-2000+
Typical symptoms
Hard brake pedal or reduced braking assistance
Engine hydraulic lock (if water enters engine via servo)
Damp or wet carpets in the front footwells
Intermittent electrical faults or engine cutting out
Affected vehicles
Engines:
All engines
Typical mileage:
Any mileage miles
1 more owner report backs this up
June 2016Ageing sunroof drain tubes can block, causing water to leak down A-pillars and potentially damage electrics under the driver's seat.
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
OtherMedium severity💬 4 owner reports, 2013 to 2015
Front wings are prone to rusting through, especially in harsh conditions. VW has sometimes met 12-year no-perforation bodywork claims for cars with full VW service history.
Rough guide
£500-1000
Typical symptoms
Visible rust and perforation on the front wings
Rust around wheel arches or body seams
Affected vehicles
Engines:
All engines
Typical mileage:
Any mileage (age-related) miles
2 more owner reports back this up
June 2014Rust-through is an increasing problem on Passats, particularly on front wings and tailgates, especially around the rear number plate lights.
September 2013Front wings of 2005 Passats are rusting through, with VW offering 50% of the £1,000 dealer rectification cost despite a 10-year warranty.
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
What owners report on the B5
1 single report, unconfirmed
One owner each, in their own words rewritten as a line, and not counted in our risk scoring. A fault joins the list above once a second report or an editorial source backs it.
Electrics · December 2016A 2002 Passat 2.0 20 Valve activated its door locks while driving, with the interior light staying on, linked to the mirror defrost setting.
What owners like about the B5
21 notes
December 2015A Passat B5 1.9TDI reached 305,000 miles with no issues, apart from headlights misting over.
This model offered high perceived quality for its class, with well-assembled plastics and velours creating a good interior ambience.
The car measured 15 feet 4 inches long by 5 feet 9 inches wide.
TDI 90 and 110 engines performed better than the 1.8 20v, though the 20v turbo could reach 140 mph and brake safely.
The car provided very low levels of both wind and road noise.
Excellent fuel economy was achieved by the TDI 90 and 110 engines, with many owners exceeding 50mpg.
This Passat generation demonstrated relatively strong performance in Euro NCAP crash tests, enhancing occupant safety.
The revised 115 brake horsepower, 210 pound-foot TDi PD engine, introduced for the 2000 model year, proved dependable.
The car's galvanised body panels were backed by a comprehensive 11-year anti-perforation warranty.
Interior trim components demonstrated good durability, outlasting those in earlier Passat models.
With proper maintenance, these cars can maintain a new appearance for many years.
This model was the fourth most reliable car in a 2001 Fleet News Survey of 620,000 fleet vehicles.
This Passat model offered a better driving experience and was better equipped than its predecessor.
The interior offered a comfortable environment and generous space for occupants and luggage.
Steering offered slightly improved road feel, and the gearchange was less sloppy.
The vehicle achieved a commendable four-star rating in the Euro NCAP crash safety assessments.
Volkswagen models generally had below-average warranty repair costs in the 2003 Warranty Direct Reliability index.
The steering system provided a slightly enhanced sense of connection with the road surface.
The gearchange mechanism received improvements, resulting in a more precise and less vague operation.
Petrol models from 2001 to 2003 were rated average for breakdowns, problems, and faults in a 2003 Which report.
All versions had a top speed limited to 155mph, with 0-60 acceleration ranging from 6.3 to 7.8 seconds.
Generation 2 of 49 known faults · 24 owner reports · 10 good notes
Volkswagen Passat B6 (2005 to 2010) problems
Fuel SystemHigh severity📝 Editorial
Siemens Piezo injector electrical failure (short to earth) causing the engine to instantly cut out while driving
Rough guide
£1000-2000
Typical symptoms
engine cuts out completely without warning
flashing glow plug light
car will turn over but not start
Affected vehicles
Engines:
2.0 TDI PD 170 (BMN)
Typical mileage:
60000-100000 miles
2 more owner reports back this up
March 2017The PD injectors on a 2007 Passat 2.0 TDI experienced a failure, requiring attention.
July 2012Siemens Piezoelectric injector replacements on 2006 to 2009 2.0 TDI BMN engines caused problems with the DPF.
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
SuspensionHigh severity💬 2 owner reports, 2012
Software problems with the electro-hydraulic power steering system, leading to PAS rack failures. A service action campaign (SA4815) was put in place in North America, but UK owners were often charged for repairs.
Rough guide
£450-1000
Typical symptoms
Loss of power steering assistance
Heavy steering, especially at low speeds
Steering warning light on dashboard
Affected vehicles
Engines:
All engines
Typical mileage:
Any mileage miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
Engine/EmissionsHigh severity💬 6 owner reports, 2012 to 2014
Failure of the oil pump drive, either the chain (pre-2006) or the hexagonal shaft (post-2006), leading to sudden loss of oil pressure and catastrophic engine failure. VW often refuses goodwill if not 100% VAG maintained.
Rough guide
£1800-7000+
Typical symptoms
Sudden illumination of the oil pressure warning light
Engine seizing or making loud knocking noises
Complete engine failure
Affected vehicles
Engines:
2.0 TDI PD 140/170 (with balancer shafts)
Typical mileage:
80000-120000 miles
2 more owner reports back this up
April 2015A 2007 Passat 2.0TDI suffered low oil pressure, turbo failure, and injector issues, making it beyond economic repair.
April 2015A 2005 Passat 2.0TDI Sportline estate experienced an oil pressure warning light, diagnosed as a balancer shaft oil pump drive failure.
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
ElectricalHigh severity💬 7 owner reports, 2013 to 2016
The electric parking brake is prone to failure, often due to water ingress into the caliper motors or corrosion of internal bearings, leading to the brake jamming on or failing to release. The switch itself can also fail.
Rough guide
£200-500 per side
Typical symptoms
Parking brake fails to release or engage
Grinding or buzzing noise from the rear wheels when operating the brake
Parking brake warning light on dashboard
Car rolling away when parked on an incline
Affected vehicles
Engines:
All models with EPB
Typical mileage:
Any mileage (age-related) miles
1 more owner report backs this up
August 2012A four-year-old 2008 Passat 1.4 TSI estate with 25,000 miles required a new clutch, electric parking brake switch, and rear door lock.
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
SuspensionHigh severity💬 2 owner reports, 2012 to 2013
Rear coil springs are prone to snapping, particularly after the car has been standing for a period, leading to sudden suspension collapse.
Rough guide
£200-400 per spring
Typical symptoms
Loud bang from the rear of the car
Rear of the car sitting lower than usual
Harsh ride quality or knocking noises from the rear suspension
Affected vehicles
Engines:
All models
Typical mileage:
Any mileage (age-related) miles
1 more owner report backs this up
January 2019A 2010 Passat TDI estate showed inside edge wear on rear tyres, attributed to worn rear coil springs and dampers.
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
OtherMedium severity💬 2 owner reports, 2013
Repeated failures of the air conditioning compressor, leading to loss of cooling.
Rough guide
£500-800
Typical symptoms
Air conditioning blowing warm air
Loud noises from the engine bay when AC is on
AC system not engaging
Affected vehicles
Engines:
All models
Typical mileage:
50000+ miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
A leaking fuel filter can drip diesel onto the auxiliary belt, causing it to shred and tangle with the timing belt, leading to substantial engine damage.
Rough guide
£2000-4000+
Typical symptoms
Squealing or flapping noise from the engine bay
Sudden loss of power steering or alternator function
Engine cutting out or seizing
Visible fuel leak around the fuel filter
Affected vehicles
Engines:
2.0 TDI
Typical mileage:
70000-100000 miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
Engine/EmissionsHigh severity📝 Editorial
Numerous reports of 2.0 TDI PD engines losing coolant due to porous cylinder heads, often requiring a complete new engine. VW offers no goodwill if serviced outside the dealer network.
Rough guide
£5000+
Typical symptoms
Frequent need to top up coolant
Engine overheating
White smoke from the exhaust
Coolant in the oil (milky oil cap)
Affected vehicles
Engines:
2.0 TDI PD
Typical mileage:
Any mileage miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
SecurityHigh severity💬 1 owner report, 2011
Ignition lock failure, immobilising the car. VW dealers quote high prices for repair, but independent specialists can sometimes replace just the column lock part and reprogramme.
Rough guide
£775-1400
Typical symptoms
Car fails to start
Steering lock warning message on dashboard
Ignition key not recognised
Affected vehicles
Engines:
All models
Typical mileage:
Any mileage miles
1 more owner report backs this up
June 2016A 2011 Passat Bluemotion developed a faulty steering column, indicated by a yellow warning light at startup.
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
What owners report on the B6
24 single reports, unconfirmed
One owner each, in their own words rewritten as a line, and not counted in our risk scoring. A fault joins the list above once a second report or an editorial source backs it.
Engine · February 2019A 2005 Passat 2.0TDI with 177,000 miles required a new dual mass flywheel for £1,400, then a camshaft crank sensor for £700.
Engine · July 2018A Passat experienced extreme juddering at idle, which a dealer failed to diagnose before the timing belt snapped, leading to a cylinder head replacement.
Gearbox and clutch · April 2018The DQ200 7-speed dry clutch Mechatronics control box was re-engineered in 2016, following failures on Passats with engines under 2.0 litres.
Engine · July 2017A 2010 Passat TDI engine stopped, and the engine light illuminated, diagnosed as faulty outlet and intake manifold flap position sensors.
Engine · February 2017A 2008 Passat 2.0TDI developed engine fault workshop symbols and flashing cool light after the EA189 NOx emissions fix.
Engine · January 2017A Volkswagen Passat EA888 1.8 TSI with 80,000 miles consumed a litre of oil every 1,000 miles, despite regular dealer servicing.
Engine · December 2016A 2008 Passat 1.9TDI estate experienced a connecting rod failure, puncturing the side of the engine block at 130,000 miles.
Gearbox and clutch · April 2016The DSG gearbox of a 2005 Passat was reported to be slipping out of gear momentarily, likely due to a failed clutch pack.
Exhaust · December 2015An 85,000 mile 2009 Passat 1.6TDI Bluemotion experienced increased fuel consumption and the DPF light illuminating, suggesting a blocked DPF.
Engine · September 2015A 2007 Passat 2.0TFSI with 57,000 miles developed a judder at idle, eventually diagnosed as coked-up valves requiring a costly engine rebuild.
Engine · May 2015A 100,000 mile 2010 Passat R line estate required a new Boost Turbo Actuator valve and had failing rear LEDs.
Electrics · June 2014The LED rear lights of a 4-year-old Passat failed, requiring replacement of all feeds, supplies, and earths to the lamps.
Electrics · May 2014An alarm fault on a 2006 Passat 2.0 TSI cost £800 to fix but remained unresolved.
Engine · April 2014A 65,000 mile 2009 Passat 2.0 TDI Highline suffered engine seizure, with repair costs quoted at £7,000, suspected oil pump drive failure.
Suspension and steering · April 2014A 2007 Passat showed lumps and excessive wear on the inside tread of rear tyres, diagnosed as faulty rear wishbone design.
Suspension and steering · March 2014A 35,000 mile 2011 Passat 1.9 TDI BlueMotion had lower arm suspension bushes starting to split, which a dealer stated was not unusual.
Brakes · January 2014Electric parking brake failures on 2005-2011 Passats are often caused by corrosion of inadequately specified bearings within the caliper.
Bodywork · March 2013A 2008 Passat Sport experienced corrosion on all four doors, bonnet, tailgate, and A-posts, originating from inner and outer panel seams.
Fuel system · January 2013A 75,000 mile 2007 TDI 170DSG experienced poorer fuel economy after its DPF was replaced, likely due to increased regeneration fuel use.
Fuel system · October 2012A 2009 diesel Passat had injector problems that were not covered by warranty.
Suspension and steering · August 2012A 2008 Passat required replacement of its front console bushes, costing £446.40, as an advisory after a 30,000 mile service.
Exhaust · July 2012Diesel particulate filters on diesel models can reach the end of their service life after approximately six years.
Fuel system · June 2012Replacement injectors under a recall led to a small but noticeable improvement in fuel economy for one car.
Interior · May 2012The heater motor of a 2008 Passat failed after two years, then again out of warranty, with Volkswagen offering limited goodwill.
What owners like about the B6
10 notes
December 2018A 2007 Passat 2.0 TDI 6-speed DSG achieved 240,000 miles with only a wheel bearing replacement, alongside regular servicing.
August 2016A 2009 Passat Bluemotion 2.0L estate reached 213,000 miles before needing injectors rebuilt, a new timing belt, and possible fuel pump repair.
The Passat provides a very spacious and comfortable cabin, making journeys pleasant for all occupants.
This model offers a wide and comprehensive range of engines, catering to various driving preferences and needs.
The car features a large boot with lockable seatbacks for added security.
The Passat achieved an excellent 5-star Euro NCAP rating for occupant crash safety, ensuring high protection levels.
Owners commend the acceleration, performance, and fuel economy of the 2.0 DSG engine variant.
Good tyre life is reported, with front tyres lasting over 30,000 miles and rears over 40,000 miles.
This Passat demonstrated good tyre life, with owners reporting impressive longevity from the fitted tyres.
This Passat achieved over 30,000 miles on its front tyres and more than 40,000 miles on its rear tyres.
Generation 3 of 48 known faults · 23 owner reports · 10 good notes
Volkswagen Passat B7 (2010 to 2015) problems
Engine/EmissionsMedium severity📝 Editorial
EGR valve failure and DPF blockage following the 'Dieselgate' emissions software fix
Rough guide
£400-900
Typical symptoms
engine management light
flashing glow plug light
limp mode
frequent DPF regenerations
Affected vehicles
Engines:
2.0 TDI (EA189)
Typical mileage:
60000-100000 miles
8 more owner reports back this up
April 2019The engine management light on a 2011 Passat 2.0 TDI estate intermittently illuminated, indicating an EGR fault, with a £700 replacement quote.
July 2017A Passat B6 EA189 TDI suffered EGR cooler failure and coolant loss after the NOx emissions fix, leading to total engine failure.
June 2017A 2010 Passat EA189 TDI experienced limp mode and multiple component failures, including EGR valve, harness, ECU, and throttle body, after the NOx emissions fix.
April 2017A 2010 Passat TDI experienced five amber warning lights, including EGR and DPF issues, and reduced fuel economy after the NOx emissions fix.
March 2017After a NOx emissions fix, a Passat had its EGR valve replaced free of charge, but then experienced a loss of turbo power.
January 2017A Passat 2.0 TDI DSG Highline displayed an engine fault warning after an emissions recall, likely indicating a blocked EGR.
October 2016A 2010 Passat 2.0TDI estate experienced reduced MPG and a random shudder between 50-70mph after the EA189 Emissions Defeat software reprogramming.
October 2016The fuel economy of a 2013 Passat 2.0 TDI dropped from 50mpg to 40mpg, likely due to a gummed-up EGR valve.
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
Transmission/ClutchHigh severity📝 Editorial
DQ200 7-speed dry clutch DSG Mechatronic failure and premature clutch pack wear causing juddering, loss of drive, and flashing PRNDS lights
Rough guide
£1000-2500
Typical symptoms
juddering when pulling away in 1st or 2nd gear
loss of drive or missing gears (only even or only odd gears work)
flashing spanner or PRNDS lights on dashboard
Affected vehicles
Engines:
1.2 TSI / 1.4 TSI / 1.6 TDI (DSG)
Typical mileage:
40000-80000 miles
2 more owner reports back this up
September 2018A Passat 1.4 TSI with DQ200 7-speed DSG juddered between second and third gear at 6,500 miles, and twice became stuck in third.
August 2018The DQ200 7-speed dry clutch DSG on a 2017 Passat 1.6 TDI with 24,000 miles entered emergency mode, requiring a new transmission under warranty.
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
Transmission/ClutchHigh severity💬 6 owner reports, 2014 to 2021
Repeated failures of the clutch and dual mass flywheel (DMF), often at relatively low mileages, leading to significant repair costs and potential damage to the transmission casing.
Rough guide
£800-3000+
Typical symptoms
Clutch judder or vibration, especially when pulling away
Difficulty shifting gears
Rattling noise from the gearbox area at idle
Engine stalling or varying revs (due to DMF issues)
Affected vehicles
Engines:
Manual transmission models
Typical mileage:
25000-50000 miles
4 more owner reports back this up
March 2016The manual transmission of a 2012 Passat 1.6 TDI failed at 54,000 miles, requiring a new transmission, clutch, and DMF for £2,552.
March 2015A 2011 Passat with 59,000 miles suffered dual mass flywheel, clutch, and gearbox failure, causing extensive damage and a £3,000 repair bill.
March 2015A 2011 Passat with 59,000 miles experienced dual mass flywheel, clutch, and gearbox failure, causing extensive damage and a £3,000 repair bill.
December 2012Successive clutch and Dual Mass Flywheel failures were reported at 43,000 miles and again at 58,000 miles.
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
OtherMedium severity💬 3 owner reports, 2017 to 2019
Repeated failures of the air conditioning compressor, sometimes soon after other emissions-related repairs. Can be due to issues like a tight belt or bracket failure.
Rough guide
£800+
Typical symptoms
Air conditioning blowing warm air
Loud noises from the engine bay when AC is on
AC system not engaging
Affected vehicles
Engines:
All models
Typical mileage:
Any mileage miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
Transmission/ClutchHigh severity💬 2 owner reports, 2019 to 2021
Failure of the clutch slave cylinder, often requiring replacement along with the clutch and dual mass flywheel.
Rough guide
£800-1500
Typical symptoms
Clutch pedal sticking to the floor or feeling spongy
Difficulty engaging gears
Loss of clutch pressure
Affected vehicles
Engines:
Manual transmission models
Typical mileage:
40000-50000 miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
The rear camshaft lobe is prone to unexpectedly shearing off from the shaft, causing reduced engine power and loss of vacuum pump power, which affects brake booster assistance. This was subject to a recall in the USA.
Rough guide
£1500-3000+
Typical symptoms
Reduced engine power
Increased braking effort required
Engine warning lights
Unusual noises from the engine
Affected vehicles
Engines:
1.8 TFSI / 2.0 TFSI (EA888)
Typical mileage:
Any mileage miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
ElectricalHigh severity💬 1 owner report, 2018
A DVSA safety recall (R/2018/062) for diesel models with stop/start, where the starter motor may be permanently activated due to a bent or broken return spring in the solenoid switch. This can lead to overheating and potential vehicle fire.
Rough guide
£0 (free safety recall)
Typical symptoms
Starter motor remaining engaged after engine starts
Burning smell from engine bay
Engine failing to start or struggling to start
Affected vehicles
Engines:
Diesel with stop/start
Typical mileage:
Any mileage miles
1 more owner report backs this up
September 2018A 2011 Passat TDI's starter motor caught fire after the owner missed a recall notification; Volkswagen replaced the motor and repaired damage.
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
Failure of an in-line thermostat, particularly after the NOx emissions fix, causing engine temperature gauge fluctuations and slow warm-up, especially in colder weather. This also impacts DPF regeneration and fuel economy.
Rough guide
£300-500
Typical symptoms
Engine temperature gauge fluctuates or takes a long time to reach operating temperature
Temperature drops quickly on downhill roads
Reduced fuel economy
More frequent DPF regenerations
Affected vehicles
Engines:
2.0 TDI
Typical mileage:
70000+ miles
1 more owner report backs this up
November 2017A 2013 Passat 170 BMT TDI Alltrack DSG with 76,000 miles experienced increased fuel consumption and fluctuating temperature due to a failed in-line thermostat.
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
What owners report on the B7
23 single reports, unconfirmed
One owner each, in their own words rewritten as a line, and not counted in our risk scoring. A fault joins the list above once a second report or an editorial source backs it.
Brakes · December 2019A 2.0 TDI manual estate occasionally cut out without warning at slow speeds, taking several seconds to restart, possibly due to a sticking brake pedal switch.
Fuel system · August 2019The No 1 injector failed on a 2011 Passat 1.6 TDI Bluemotion six months after the NOx emissions fix, expected to be covered by Volkswagen.
Engine · August 2018A 2013 Passat B7 Alltrack 2.0 TDI with 106,000 miles experienced intermittent shuddering under light throttle, after an emissions update and EGR replacement.
Brakes · August 2018The automatic brake auto hold on a 2013 Passat B7 with 58,000 miles intermittently failed, triggering multiple dashboard warnings.
Gearbox and clutch · May 2018Transmission bearings failed on a 2012 Passat estate at 30,000 miles, requiring significant repair work.
Electrics · April 2018The ECU of a 2013 Passat 2.0 TDI Bluemotion Tech estate failed at 47,000 miles, causing numerous warning lights and immobilising the car.
Bodywork · February 2018Blocked drains from the panoramic sunroof of a 2013 Passat B7 led to water stains on the headlining.
Engine · October 2017The engine management light flashed on a 2011 Passat 1.6 TDI EA189 due to a carboned-up EGR valve, with a £1,040 replacement quote.
Electrics · October 2017A 2013 Passat 1.6 TDI with 84,500 miles experienced wipers stopping, dashboard lights, and then refused to start a week after a repair.
Electrics · September 2017A 2013 Passat 1.6 TDI with 84,500 miles caught fire while being driven, with smoke entering the cabin from the air vents and fuse box.
Brakes · September 2017A 2015 Passat experienced intermittent auto hold brake failure and emergency braking issues after emissions updates.
Electrics · June 2017A 2012 Passat 2.0 TDI had its stop/start fixed under warranty after a NOx emissions fix, then experienced multiple warning lights.
Fuel system · March 2017A 2013 Passat 2.0 TDI 180 DSG experienced 7% worse fuel consumption and slower DSG downshifts after a NOx emissions fix.
Engine · September 2016After an emissions software remap, a 2012 Passat 2.0 TDI needed to change down earlier and had stop/start issues at low revs.
Engine · April 2016A 2011 Passat 1.6 TDI required a new EGR valve, with the dealer quoting £900 and Volkswagen refusing any contribution.
Bodywork · March 2016The fog lights of a 2014 Passat Executive Estate filled with water, costing £166.58 for replacements.
Gearbox and clutch · October 2015A 2014 Passat Alltrack DSG experienced hesitation when pulling away from junctions.
Cooling · August 2015Water pump gasket failures occurred in a 2013 Passat 2.0 TDI CR, indicating a specific component issue.
Brakes · May 2015The parking brake of a 2012 Passat manual occasionally applied itself when setting off from a junction.
Engine · July 2014A 2012 Passat 2.0 Bluemotion estate needed a new rear wiper motor, an air conditioning unit, and then caught fire while driving.
Electrics · October 2013The sat nav system truncated instructions, rendering it useless and potentially dangerous, with the dealer unwilling to fix it.
Electrics · October 2013Bluetooth pairing with a Samsung Galaxy phone interfered with the car's remote key signal, switching off the engine while driving.
Brakes · September 2013The electric parking brake on a one-year-old 2012 Alltrack with 9,000 miles failed to hold on a steep hill.
What owners like about the B7
10 notes
December 2018A 2014 Passat 1.6 TDI with the NOx Fix showed a noticeable improvement in mpg for 5-6 months, then performed at least as well as before.
April 2017A Passat 2.0 TDI was immediately quieter and returned more miles per gallon after the NOx emissions fix.
April 2017A 2014 Passat 1.6 TDI with the NOx emissions fix showed no problems and improved fuel consumption in warmer weather.
The Passat offers a fuss-free driving experience and is generally considered enjoyable to operate on the road.
The Passat provides a wide array of engine choices, allowing buyers to select the best option for their needs.
The Passat offers a generous 565 litres of boot space, providing ample room for luggage and cargo.
The Passat achieved a five-star Euro NCAP rating, with strong scores for adult, child, and pedestrian protection.
The electric parking brake effectively held the car and caravan on a 1-in-6 slope, with DSG making hill starts easier.
The Alltrack model features a higher ride height compared to the standard Passat Estate.
The Passat Alltrack comes equipped with 4MOTION four-wheel drive as a standard feature.
Generation 4 of 44 known faults · 9 owner reports · 23 good notes
Volkswagen Passat B8 (2014 to 2023) problems
ElectricalMedium severity💬 2 owner reports, 2016
The Autohold brake function can fail to release on numerous occasions, potentially due to a problem with the multifunction brake light switch. This can be intermittent and difficult for garages to diagnose.
Rough guide
£200-500
Typical symptoms
Autohold brake fails to release when pulling away
Car remains stationary despite accelerator input
Intermittent brake-related warning lights
Affected vehicles
Engines:
All models with Autohold
Typical mileage:
Any mileage miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
ElectricalHigh severity📝 Editorial
Water ingress from the sunroof leading to rewiring being needed and failure of steering wheel control buttons and other electrical issues.
Rough guide
£500-1000+
Typical symptoms
Water dripping from the headlining or A-pillars
Steering wheel control buttons not working
Other intermittent electrical faults
Dampness in the cabin
Affected vehicles
Engines:
Models with sunroof
Typical mileage:
12000+ miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
SuspensionMedium severity📝 Editorial
Premature corrosion and wear of brake discs, particularly the rear discs, leading to early replacement. This may be exacerbated by the electromechanical parking brake and Autohold function.
Rough guide
£400-800
Typical symptoms
Excessive corrosion visible on brake discs
Reduced braking performance
Squealing or grinding noises during braking
Affected vehicles
Engines:
All
Typical mileage:
14000-36000 miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
ElectricalHigh severity📝 Editorial
Failure of the SX6 switch, which controls the high-voltage battery system, leading to a 'hybrid system error' and preventing the car from starting. This is a costly repair not covered by the extended battery warranty.
Rough guide
£2500
Typical symptoms
Car refuses to start
Displays 'hybrid system error'
Recovery required
Affected vehicles
Engines:
1.4 TSI Hybrid
Typical mileage:
Unknown miles
🔍 We have a specific pre-purchase check for this faultCheck an advert →
What owners report on the B8
9 single reports, unconfirmed
One owner each, in their own words rewritten as a line, and not counted in our risk scoring. A fault joins the list above once a second report or an editorial source backs it.
Brakes · September 2019A December 2017 Passat had all four brake discs replaced at 14,660 miles due to corrosion and 95% rear wear, costing £800.
Engine · August 2019A 2019 Passat 1.5 TSI EVO received a software update to address low-rev running concerns, but then felt less responsive.
Brakes · December 2018Rear brake discs on a 2016 Passat B8 2.0 TDI estate corroded at 36,000 miles, requiring replacement due to wear.
Brakes · December 2018A 2016 Passat 2.0 TDI estate needed new rear brake discs at 36,000 miles due to corrosion and worn pads.
Engine · July 2018A 2017 Passat 2.0 TDI SE Business developed an obtrusive hum between 2,100 and 2,300rpm at 27,000 miles, traced to an air conditioning pipe.
Bodywork · October 2017A 2017 Passat Estate with a panoramic roof experienced a leaking roof, requiring a new roof under warranty.
Fuel system · October 2017A 2017 Passat 2.0 TDI 150 experienced a drop in fuel economy from 58mpg to 55mpg after its first service at 20,000 miles.
Exhaust · April 2017A 2015 Passat TDI estate experienced significant emissions system faults, including black exhaust smoke, requiring multiple dealer visits.
Interior · March 2017A 2016 Passat at 35,000 kilometres had an intermittent cabin heater fault, with hot air entering when the heater was set to off.
What owners like about the B8
23 notes
The Passat was derived from the Audi 80, available as a hatchback, estate, or saloon, with the Santana version built in China until 2003.
Volkswagen Passat service intervals: cambelt, chain and gearbox oil
An overdue cambelt is the most expensive thing a seller can fail to mention on a used Passat. These are the figures UK specialists work to.
Timing belt (cambelt)Belt
B7, 2.0 TDI, EA189
60,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first
Official guidance for the 2.0 TDI common-rail is 5 years or 130,000-140,000 miles. UK independent specialists advise belt, water pump and tensioners every 5 years or 60,000 miles on this interference diesel, and the shorter specialist figure is recorded.
Timing chainChain
B7, 1.4 TSI, EA111
No fixed replacement interval
Passat B7 1.4 TSI 122PS (CAXA, EA111) is CHAIN driven, not belt driven, so there is no cambelt to fall due. EA111 chains stretch and tensioners fail; listen for a metallic rattle on cold start, because a skipped chain puts pistons into valves. Reinforced replacement kits exist for exactly this fault.
Timing belt (cambelt)Belt
B8, 1.4 TSI, EA211
120,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first
Passat B8 1.4 TSI (EA211) uses a long-life belt. VW's digital schedule effectively lists no change at all, while editorial guidance quotes 5 years or about 120,000 miles; the shorter time-bound figure is recorded. Many UK specialists still advise a precautionary 5-yearly change, though VW offers no independent-friendly belt kit for some EA211 variants.
Always confirm against the vehicle handbook. Intervals vary by engine, and several manufacturers revised theirs after failures in service.
Repair costs are typical UK ranges, not quotes. Actual cost depends on condition and garage.Data last verified: September 2026
Volkswagen Passat buying questions
Is a used Volkswagen Passat reliable?
The Volkswagen Passat has 25 known faults in our database across 4 generations, 18 of them rated high severity. The most serious are electrics (the electric parking brake is prone to failure) and engine (failure of the oil pump drive, either the chain (pre-2006) or the hexagonal shaft). None of them makes the car a bad buy on its own; the risk is a seller who knows and says nothing.
What are the most common Volkswagen Passat problems?
Three stand out. Electrics: the electric parking brake is prone to failure. Engine: failure of the oil pump drive, either the chain (pre-2006) or the hexagonal shaft (post-2006) (typically 80000 to 120000 miles). Gearbox: repeated failures of the clutch and dual mass flywheel (DMF), often at relatively low mileages (typically 25000 to 50000 miles). The full list above is grouped by generation, with typical mileage and a rough repair cost for each.
Which Volkswagen Passat years should I avoid?
No Volkswagen Passat year is a write-off, but the B6 (2005 to 2010) carries the most serious faults: electrics, engine, suspension and fuel system. The B7 (2010 to 2015), B5 (1997 to 2005) and B8 (2014 to 2023) have high-severity faults on record too. Year matters less than whether the specific car has had the known fixes, so check the history for them.
What should I check when viewing a used Volkswagen Passat?
Ask the seller about the electrics, engine and gearbox faults on this page and whether they have been fixed, with invoices. On the test drive watch for parking brake fails to release or engage, sudden illumination of the oil pressure warning light and clutch judder or vibration, especially when pulling away. Read the MOT history for repeat advisories, then paste the advert into the free check, which reads it against all 25 known faults before you travel. Check a Volkswagen Passat advert →
What is the real MPG of a Volkswagen Passat?
Owners report 49.3 mpg on average across the Volkswagen Passat engines with data, about 88% of the official combined figure. The gap between official and real-world economy varies a lot by engine, so the Real MPG page lists every engine and generation separately, from 1,872 owner submissions. Volkswagen Passat Real MPG by engine →
Where this Volkswagen Passat fault data comes from
If you used to check the Honest John “Good & Bad” section before the site closed in 2026, this page is where that information now lives. We rebuilt the Volkswagen Passat owner-report history from the archived Honest John dataset, added our own research, specialist and owner-club sources and DVSA recall data, and we keep it free. Each fault above is badged with its source. The same data feeds our free advert check, which reads a listing against every known fault for the exact engine and year.
Knowing what a Volkswagen Passat goes wrong with is half of it. The rest is reading the advert and checking the car's history before you hand any money over.