Compare the model years
Volkswagen PASSAT
Problems & recalls by year.
Explore owner-reported problems, safety recalls and manufacturer records for 17 model years. Start with the year you’re considering.
Compare two yearsA useful comparison needs context.
Report totals aren’t adjusted for the number of vehicles sold, age or time on the road. A newer year with fewer reports is not automatically more reliable.
| Model year | Owner reports | Recall campaigns | Manufacturer records | Most-reported category |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 110 | 7 | 677 | Other components |
| 2016 | 106 | 5 | 832 | Other components |
| 2015 | 243 | 7 | 1,129 | Air bags |
| 2014 | 594 | 10 | 1,565 | Air bags |
| 2013 | 748 | 9 | 1,593 | Air bags |
| 2012 | 483 | 11 | 1,571 | Air bags |
| 2010 | 163 | 4 | 834 | Air bags |
| 2009 | 146 | 4 | 751 | Engine |
| 2008 | 168 | 4 | 621 | Fuel system |
| 2007 | 262 | 7 | 540 | Air bags |
| 2006 | 576 | 7 | 521 | Air bags |
| 2005 | 148 | 4 | 261 | Engine |
| 2004 | 279 | 4 | 235 | Other components |
| 2003 | 628 | 7 | 213 | Other components |
| 2002 | 636 | 4 | 220 | Electrical system |
| 2001 | 430 | 4 | 207 | Engine |
| 2000 | 507 | 5 | 196 | Brakes |
What to look for
in each year’s dossier.
Open a model year to see which components owners reported, when reports were filed and what the manufacturer documented. Read the actual recall or bulletin before assuming it applies to a particular engine or trim.
A bulletin may describe a repair procedure without establishing a safety defect or a right to a free repair. Ask the seller for records, verify current VIN applicability, and arrange an independent inspection.
Prepare for the inspection