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Volkswagen Passat 2012–2022

NMS (North American Passat)

NHTSA data through 13 August 20263,374 complaints, 1,784 with mileageMethod

A DO NOT DRIVE recall covers part of this generation — check the VIN before driving it home.

Reports with mileage
1,784
Median of reported failures
48,000 mi
Most-reported system
Airbag system (35.2%)
Recalls
27

Before-you-buy checklist ↓Check this VIN — NHTSA ↗

On this generation, failures are spread across the mileage range, with the middle half between 21,755 and 74,990 miles.

Figure 1 · Volkswagen Passat 2012–2022 · 1,784 reports with mileage

Mileage at failure

Complaints per 5,000-mile bin, 0 to 200,000 miles, equal bins on a linear scale. Tallest bar = 171 complaints.

Mileage at failure, Volkswagen Passat 2012–2022Histogram of 1,784 owner-reported failures by mileage, in 5,000-mile bins from 0 to 200,000. The tallest bin is 0 to 5,000 miles with 171 complaints, 9.6 percent of the total. Failures are spread across the mileage range, with the middle half between 21,755 and 74,990 miles. A further 7 complaints, 0.4 percent, were reported above 200,000 miles and are shown as a separate detached bar. Median mileage at failure is 47,500.
  • Rest of the range
  • Median
  • 200,000+ — 7 complaints (0.4%), plotted separately
10%
5,074
25%
21,755
Median
47,500
75%
74,990
90%
105,000

Tallest bin: 171 complaints between 0 and 5,000 miles. Based on 1,784 complaints that record mileage. Bin width 5,000 miles.

Show the numbers
Complaints by mileage bin
MileageComplaintsShare
0–5,0001719.6%
5,000–10,000854.8%
10,000–15,000804.5%
15,000–20,000784.4%
20,000–25,000703.9%
25,000–30,000543.0%
30,000–35,000623.5%
35,000–40,0001015.7%
40,000–45,0001307.3%
45,000–50,0001045.8%
50,000–55,000884.9%
55,000–60,0001005.6%
60,000–65,000683.8%
65,000–70,000734.1%
70,000–75,000754.2%
75,000–80,000573.2%
80,000–85,000643.6%
85,000–90,000372.1%
90,000–95,000432.4%
95,000–100,000281.6%
100,000–105,000341.9%
105,000–110,000171.0%
110,000–115,000321.8%
115,000–120,000130.7%
120,000–125,000301.7%
125,000–130,000181.0%
130,000–135,000140.8%
135,000–140,000100.6%
140,000–145,00090.5%
145,000–150,000100.6%
150,000–155,00070.4%
160,000–165,00010.1%
165,000–170,00050.3%
170,000–175,00010.1%
175,000–180,00030.2%
180,000–185,00010.1%
185,000–190,00020.1%
190,000–195,00020.1%
200,000+70.4%

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, public domain. Complaint counts reflect what owners reported and are not a measure of failure rate per vehicle sold.

What this can and cannot tell you: these are complaints owners chose to file, not a failure rate. Popular models accumulate more of them simply by being common. How this is built.

Owners filed 3,374 complaints with NHTSA about the 2012–2022 Volkswagen Passat, and 1,784 of them record the mileage at which the failure happened. That is enough to show not just what fails, but when.

Failures are spread across the mileage range, with the middle half between 21,755 and 74,990 miles. The median is 47,500 miles.

The most-reported areas are the airbag system (35.2% of complaints, typically around 55,000 miles), the electrical system (11.0% of complaints, typically around 55,000 miles), the engine (9.5% of complaints, typically around 49,000 miles).

27 recall campaigns cover this generation. 1 of them carry a severe NHTSA advisory.

If you arrived asking “is it reliable?” — this page answers the version of that question the data can support: which problems owners reported, and at what mileage.

How many miles does a 2012–2022 Volkswagen Passat last?

Half of the failure reports on the 2012–2022 Volkswagen Passat were filed by 48,000 miles and 90% by 105,000 miles — figures drawn from 1,784 NHTSA complaints that record an odometer reading, so they time reported failures, not the cars whose owners never filed one.

7 reports (0.4%) came in past 200,000 miles — each one proof a Passat reached that mileage, not that it died there.

Before you buy a 2012–2022 Passat: the 3-minute check

Generated from 1,784 mileage-tagged complaints, 27 recall campaigns, 4 documented problem areas. Print this page — the checklist survives print.

  1. A DO NOT DRIVE recall covers part of this generation. Run the VIN before you drive it home — the fix is free at any dealer.
  2. Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 27 campaigns cover this generation; an open recall is a free repair you can make the seller's problem.
  3. Check emissions / engine control on 2012–2015 (TDI only) cars. 2.0L TDI diesel defeat device. Engine control software detected emissions testing and reduced NOx output only during the test. US Passat TDI model years 2012-2015 were included in the Volkswagen emissions settlement…
  4. Check transmission. DQ250 DSG mechatronic unit faults on TDI cars causing harsh engagement, flare and limp mode.
  5. Check electrical. ABS module and various body-control electrical faults; door wiring harness chafing.
  6. Complaint reports are not spread evenly across model years here — see the by-model-year table below before you settle on a year.
  7. End with a pre-purchase inspection of this car. Aggregate data describes the population; the example in front of you has its own history.

For a buyer, failures on this generation are spread rather than concentrated: the middle half falls between 22,000 and 75,000 miles, with a median of 48,000. There is no single mileage threshold to watch, which means condition and maintenance records are more informative than the odometer.

On inspection, the airbag system and the electrical system are where this generation's reports concentrate, so those are the areas worth a specific look. The airbag system in particular shows a median failure mileage of 55,000, which gives a concrete number to compare against the odometer of any car you are considering.

None of this is a substitute for a pre-purchase inspection on the individual car. Aggregate patterns describe a population; the example in front of you has its own history.

What fails, and when

Figure 2 · Volkswagen Passat 2012–2022

When each system fails

Bar spans the middle half of reports; the notch inside each bar is the median. Miles at failure on a proportional scale — equal distances are equal ratios, not equal miles.

  1. Transmission and driveline114 reports34,00010,000–81,000Transmission and driveline: 114 reports, median 34,000 miles, middle half 10,000 to 81,000 miles.
  2. Problems owners could not categorise250 reports43,00027,000–70,000Problems owners could not categorise: 250 reports, median 43,000 miles, middle half 27,000 to 70,000 miles.
  3. Engine319 reports49,00016,000–83,000Engine: 319 reports, median 49,000 miles, middle half 16,000 to 83,000 miles.
  4. Steering211 reports51,00037,000–72,000Steering: 211 reports, median 51,000 miles, middle half 37,000 to 72,000 miles.
  5. Fuel and propulsion system194 reports51,00032,000–80,000Fuel and propulsion system: 194 reports, median 51,000 miles, middle half 32,000 to 80,000 miles.
  6. Airbag system1,188 reports55,00039,000–82,000Airbag system: 1,188 reports, median 55,000 miles, middle half 39,000 to 82,000 miles.
  7. Electrical system371 reports55,00036,000–80,000Electrical system: 371 reports, median 55,000 miles, middle half 36,000 to 80,000 miles.
  • Your odometer — appears after you enter it in “Where your car sits”

Ordered by median mileage, earliest first. The first 12,000 miles are shaded: that is the boundary this site uses between a manufacturing defect and ordinary wear, not a property of the world.

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, public domain.

Complaints by vehicle system
SystemComplaintsShareMedian25–75%
Airbag system1,18835.2%55,00039,000–82,000
Electrical system37111.0%55,00036,000–80,000
Engine3199.5%49,00016,000–83,000
Problems owners could not categorise2507.4%43,00027,000–70,000
Steering2116.3%51,00037,000–72,000
Fuel and propulsion system1945.7%51,00032,000–80,000
Transmission and driveline1143.4%34,00010,000–81,000
Brakes1043.1%24,0005,000–45,000
Exterior lighting1023.0%47,00019,000–78,000
Body structure732.2%43,00024,000–60,000

Where your car sits

Failure reports by the odometer reading they were filed at. Pick the anchor nearest your car — or type the exact mileage: your marker lands on this curve and on the timing chart above.

Figure 3 · Volkswagen Passat 2012–2022 · 1,784 reports with mileage

Share of reports below each mileage

Share of mileage-tagged reports filed at or below each odometer reading. Steps rise only at bin edges, by exact counted shares.

Cumulative share of reports by mileage, Volkswagen Passat 2012–2022Of 1,784 reports that record mileage, the share filed below each odometer reading, rising in steps at each 5,000-mile bin edge. 63 percent below 60,000 miles. 84 percent below 90,000 miles. 93 percent below 120,000 miles. Median 47,500 miles.
  • 60,000 mi — 63% of reports below
  • 90,000 mi — 84% of reports below
  • 120,000 mi — 93% of reports below
  • Median — the staircase crosses the 50% line here
  • Your odometer — appears after you enter it below

The staircase tops out at 100%: the remaining 0.4% of reports (7) came above 200,000 miles.

Nothing is smoothed or interpolated. Linear axis, same as Figure 1.

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, public domain.

At 60,000 miles

63% of the failure reports on this generation came below this mileage. That describes reports, not your odds.

In the reporting window

  • Airbag system — middle half 39,000–82,000 mi
  • Electrical system — middle half 36,000–80,000 mi
  • Engine — middle half 16,000–83,000 mi
  • Problems owners could not categorise — middle half 27,000–70,000 mi
  • Steering — middle half 37,000–72,000 mi
  • Fuel and propulsion system — middle half 32,000–80,000 mi
  • Transmission and driveline — middle half 10,000–81,000 mi

At 90,000 miles

84% of the failure reports on this generation came below this mileage. That describes reports, not your odds.

Reported earlier than this mileage — ask for repair records

  • Airbag system — median 55,000 mi
  • Electrical system — median 55,000 mi
  • Engine — median 49,000 mi
  • Problems owners could not categorise — median 43,000 mi
  • Steering — median 51,000 mi
  • Fuel and propulsion system — median 51,000 mi
  • Transmission and driveline — median 34,000 mi

At 120,000 miles

93% of the failure reports on this generation came below this mileage. That describes reports, not your odds.

Reported earlier than this mileage — ask for repair records

  • Airbag system — median 55,000 mi
  • Electrical system — median 55,000 mi
  • Engine — median 49,000 mi
  • Problems owners could not categorise — median 43,000 mi
  • Steering — median 51,000 mi
  • Fuel and propulsion system — median 51,000 mi
  • Transmission and driveline — median 34,000 mi

Which systems, and when

Complaints about this generation are not spread evenly across the vehicle, and the systems that generate the most of them do not all fail at the same point in a car's life. The median failure across all systems here is 47,500 miles; the figures below show which parts of the car run ahead of that and which run behind.

The airbag system accounts for 35.2% of complaints (1,188 reports, 376 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 55,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 39,000 and 82,000 miles.

A single system taking 35.2% of all complaints is a concentration worth noting. It means that for this generation, most of what owners reported came back to one area of the car rather than being distributed across many small faults.

The electrical system accounts for 11.0% of complaints (371 reports, 235 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 55,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 36,000 and 80,000 miles.

The engine accounts for 9.5% of complaints (319 reports, 206 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 49,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 16,000 and 83,000 miles.

Problems owners could not categorise accounts for 7.4% of complaints (250 reports, 144 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 43,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 27,000 and 70,000 miles.

The steering accounts for 6.3% of complaints (211 reports, 124 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 51,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 37,000 and 72,000 miles.

The fuel and propulsion system accounts for 5.7% of complaints (194 reports, 115 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 51,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 32,000 and 80,000 miles.

Differences between model years

Within this generation, complaint volume is not constant across model years. The 2013 model year drew the most — 1,027 complaints — while 2020 drew the fewest at 24. The median year sits at 179.

That makes 2013 an outlier: roughly 5.7 times the median year of this generation. A single year standing that far apart usually reflects either a first-year issue that was later corrected, or a component change introduced for that year. Anyone shopping this generation has a straightforward reason to prefer a different year, all else being equal.

Recalls and what they cover

NHTSA records 27 recall campaigns covering vehicles in this generation. A recall means the manufacturer or the regulator concluded there was a safety defect or a standard was not met, and that a free remedy is owed to owners — including second and later owners.

1 of these carry a severe advisory — NHTSA's do not drive or park outside warnings, which the agency applies only when it considers the risk immediate. If you own one of these vehicles, that is the first thing to check by VIN.

The campaigns cluster around the airbag system (8), problems owners could not categorise (4), the hydraulic brake circuit (4). Repeated recalls against the same area of the car generally mean the first remedy did not fully resolve the underlying problem.

Recall status is specific to the individual vehicle, not the model. Checking a VIN against NHTSA's lookup is free and takes under a minute, and it is the only way to know whether a particular car has had the work done.

Reported severity

What owners reported alongside the failure itself, out of 3,374 complaints against this generation:

Crashes
151 (4.5%)
Fires
28
Injury reports
76
Fatality reports
5

These flags are self-reported by complainants and unverified by NHTSA; one report can carry several flags, so the counts overlap and do not sum to a total. They are not adjusted for how many of these vehicles are on the road. No chart is drawn here on purpose: overlapping counts spanning very different magnitudes cannot be honestly encoded as lengths.

Documented problems

Emissions / Engine Control 2012–2015 (TDI only)

2.0L TDI diesel defeat device. Engine control software detected emissions testing and reduced NOx output only during the test. US Passat TDI model years 2012-2015 were included in the Volkswagen emissions settlement with buyback or emissions modification; TDI sales were permanently discontinued after MY2015.

Transmission

DQ250 DSG mechatronic unit faults on TDI cars causing harsh engagement, flare and limp mode.

Electrical

ABS module and various body-control electrical faults; door wiring harness chafing.

Model Identity

Not a defect but essential for data hygiene: this vehicle is unrelated to the contemporaneous European B7/B8 Passat. US complaint data for 2012-2022 describes a distinct, simpler, US-only car.

By model year

Complaints by model year
YearComplaintsWith mileage
2012662389
20131,027586
2014788373
2015389215
201617989
201717577
20186526
20191817
2020245
2021285
2022192

Recalls (27) — is your car included?

Recalls are fixed free of charge at any dealer, for any owner. Check a specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. The text below is NHTSA’s own wording.

  1. Dec 2024 · 2012–2017 · Air BagsAn inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in…

    The defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Beetle, Beetle Convertible, 2012-2014 Passat, 2017 Passat Wagon, and 2006-2007 Passat Sedan vehicles. The driver's side frontal air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.

    What can happen. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the driver's side front air bag module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 4, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are 69EG, 69GQ, and 69E6.

    NHTSA campaign 24V834000, reported 2024-12-04.

  2. Nov 2021 · 2021 · WheelsThe bolts may loosen and cause a loss of control, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Atlas, Atlas Cross Sport, and Passat vehicles. The front wheel bearing bolts may have been incorrectly tightened.

    What can happen. The bolts may loosen and cause a loss of control, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Dealers will inspect the tightness of the wheel bearing bolts and replace the bolts, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 2, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 40R7.

    NHTSA campaign 21V812000, reported 2021-11-02.

  3. May 2021 · 2016–2017 · Other or unspecifiedVehicles that do not meet all regulatory requirements may have an increased risk of injury, crash, or fire.

    The defect. 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 requirements and may have been modified prior to sale. As such, these vehicles may fail to comply with the requirements of various Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

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

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 21V321000, reported 2021-05-20.

  4. Oct 2020 · 2020 · Air BagsAn incorrectly folded air bag can deploy with too much force, increasing the risk of injury.

    The defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2020 Passat vehicles. The passenger frontal air bag may have been folded incorrectly affecting its deployment force. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

    What can happen. An incorrectly folded air bag can deploy with too much force, increasing the risk of injury.

    The free fix. Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag, free of charge. The recall began October 14, 2020. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-888-241-2289. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69AY.

    NHTSA campaign 20V533000, reported 2020-10-14.

  5. Oct 2020 · 2016–2018 · Other or unspecifiedVehicles that do not meet all regulatory requirements may have an increased risk of a crash or injury to…

    The defect. 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 been modified prior to sale. As such, these vehicles may fail to comply with the requirements of various Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

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

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 20V561000, reported 2020-10-06.

  6. Dec 2019 · 2012–2015 · Air BagsAn inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in…

    The defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2012-2015 Passat, 2011-2014 Golf A6, and 2011-2013 Audi A3 diesel vehicles, thought to have been previously repaired under one of the Takata air bag recalls. The driver's side air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.

    What can happen. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

    The free fix. Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's side air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began December 20, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are 69R6, 69Q8, 69Q9, and 69Y5.

    NHTSA campaign 19V862000, reported 2019-12-20.

  7. Nov 2019 · 2017 · Other or unspecifiedIf the vehicles do not meet all regulatory requirements, there could be an increased risk of a crash, fire…

    The defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2017 Volkswagen Passat, 2018 Tiguan LWB, 2007-2009 Jetta Sedan, 2011-2013, 2015 and 2019 Jetta, 2013 Jetta Hybrid, 2008-2009 Jetta Sportwagen, 2015 Golf Sportwagen, 2013 Golf, 2008-2010 and 2012-2013 Beetle and Beetle Convertible, 2008-2010 Beetle, and Beetle Convertible vehicles. Modifications made while the vehicles were in an internal evaluation period may cause the affected vehicles to not comply with all of the applicable regulatory requirements.

    What can happen. If the vehicles do not meet all regulatory requirements, there could be an increased risk of a crash, fire, or injury.

    The free fix. Volkswagen will notify owners and repurchase the affected vehicles. The recall began November 6, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 01D7. Note: This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 18V-329.

    NHTSA campaign 19V679000, reported 2019-11-06.

  8. Jul 2019 · 2012–2020 · Exterior LightingWithout the blocking cap, the headlight aim can be adjusted out of specification, reducing visibility and…

    The defect. 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 Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

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

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 19V389000, reported 2019-07-16.

  9. Apr 2019 · 2020 · Air BagsIn an event of a side impact crash, an incorrect side airbag may not deploy as intended, increasing the risk…

    The defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Atlas and 2020 Passat vehicles. An incorrect driver and/or front passenger side impact air bag may have been installed.

    What can happen. In an event of a side impact crash, an incorrect side airbag may not deploy as intended, increasing the risk of injury.

    The free fix. Volkswagen has inspected and replaced the side air bags, free of charge. The recall was completed in April 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69Y8.

    NHTSA campaign 19V218000, reported 2019-04-24.

  10. Mar 2019 · 2015 · Air BagsIn the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could explode…

    The defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2015 Passat, 2015-2016 Eos, 2015-2017 CC, 2016-2017 TT Roadster, TT Coupe, 2017 Audi R8 Coupe, and R8 Spyder vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to explode.

    What can happen. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could explode with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.

    The free fix. Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflator with an alternative inflator, free of charge. The recall began March 4, 2019. Volkswagen owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298; Audi owners may contact Audi at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69S8 (Audi) and 69Y5 (Volkswagen).

    NHTSA campaign 19V014000, reported 2019-03-04.

  11. Nov 2018 · 2012 · Other or unspecifiedIf the vehicles do not meet all regulatory requirements, there could be an increased risk of a crash, fire…

    The defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2012-2016 Eos, 2012 Passat, 2012-2016 CC, 2015-2016 e-Golf, 2011-2015 Touareg, 2012-2015 and 2017 Tiguan, and 2011-2016 Golf and 2011-2013 GTI vehicles. Modifications made while the vehicles were in an internal evaluation period may cause the affected vehicles to not comply with all of the applicable regulatory requirements.

    What can happen. If the vehicles do not meet all regulatory requirements, there could be an increased risk of a crash, fire, or injury.

    The free fix. Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicles to make them fully compliant or Volkswagen will repurchase them if necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 29, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298.

    NHTSA campaign 18V329000, reported 2018-11-29.

  12. Sep 2018 · 2017–2018 · Service Brakes, HydraulicThe loose brake bracket bolts can allow the caliper to move, reducing braking ability or causing a loss of…

    The defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Volkswagen Atlas and 2017-2018 Volkswagen Passat vehicles. The brake caliper bracket mounting bolts on these vehicles may not have been tightened sufficiently.

    What can happen. The loose brake bracket bolts can allow the caliper to move, reducing braking ability or causing a loss of vehicle control and increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the brake caliper bracket bolt tightness, replacing and re-torque the bolts as necessary, free of charge. Additionally brake caliper fasteners, bleeder valve, and brake hose bolts will be checked and torqued to the correct specification, if necessary, free of charge. For Passat vehicles, dealers will also inspect the parking brake cable for proper connection, free of charge. The recall began September 14, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 46H6.

    NHTSA campaign 18V536000, reported 2018-09-13.

  13. Jun 2018 · 2018 · Service Brakes, Hydraulic do not driveA reduction of braking performance can increase the risk of a crash.

    The defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Volkswagen Atlas, Passat, Beetle, Beetle Convertible, Golf, Golf SportWagen and GTI and Audi Q5 and SQ5 vehicles. The brake caliper pistons on these vehicles may have insufficient coating, potentially reducing the brake performance.

    What can happen. A reduction of braking performance can increase the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Volkswagen and Audi will notify their owners. Audi dealers will bleed the rear brakes. Volkswagen dealers will bleed the front and rear brake calipers. Note: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the brake system has been checked. The recall began June 29, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 and Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are 47N8, 47N9, and 47N6.

    NHTSA campaign 18V369000, reported 2018-06-29.

  14. Mar 2018 · 2012–2014 · Air BagsIn the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could explode…

    The defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2009-2014 Volkswagen CC, 2010-2014 Golf, 2010-2014 Eos, 2007-2010 Passat Sedan and Wagon, and 2012-2014 Passat vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to explode.

    What can happen. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could explode with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.

    The free fix. Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflator with an alternative inflator, free of charge. The recall began March 16, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69Q9. Note: This recall partially supersedes recall 16V-078.

    NHTSA campaign 18V148000, reported 2018-03-16.

  15. Jul 2017 · 2012–2014 · Power TrainIf the leaking grease contacts a heated surface, such as the exhaust system and/or the diesel particulate…

    The defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2012-2014 Passat vehicles, equipped with diesel engines and Direct-Shift Transmissions (DSG). The vehicle's underbody heat shield may not be long enough to protect the right half-shaft grease boot from heat, potentially resulting in a grease leak.

    What can happen. If the leaking grease contacts a heated surface, such as the exhaust system and/or the diesel particulate filter (DPF), it could increase the risk of fire.

    The free fix. Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driveshaft heat shield, free of charge. The recall began on July 7, 2017. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 23W5.

    NHTSA campaign 17V309000, reported 2017-07-07.

  16. Mar 2017 · 2017 · Service Brakes, HydraulicA low brake fluid level may lengthen the distance needed to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2017 Passat vehicles. Brake fluid may leak slowly from the some of the brake line connections, resulting in a low brake fluid level.

    What can happen. A low brake fluid level may lengthen the distance needed to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the affected brake lines, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in March 2017. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 47N3.

    NHTSA campaign 17V075000, reported 2017-03-24.

  17. Mar 2017 · 2012–2014 · Air BagsIn the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture…

    The defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2010-2014 Golf, 2007-2010 Passat sedans and wagon, 2012-2014 Passat sedan and Eos, 2009-2014 CC, 2009-2012 Audi Q5, 2010-2012 S5 Cabriolet and 2010-2012 Audi A5 Cabriolet vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.

    What can happen. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.

    The free fix. Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflators, free of charge. Volkswagen issued an interim notification to owners on April 12, 2016, and will send a second notification when parts are available. Volkswagen will notify owners again once parts are available. Volkswagen owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Audi owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834.

    NHTSA campaign 16V078000, reported 2017-03-10.

  18. Sep 2016 · 2016 · Fuel System, GasolineA fuel leak, in the presence of an ignition source, can result in a vehicle fire.

    The defect. 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, 2015, to November 11, 2015. In the affected vehicles, the fuel rail may detach from the cylinder head and result in a fuel leak.

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

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 16V403000, reported 2016-09-16.

  19. Sep 2016 · 2012–2014 · Electrical SystemAn electrical short can cause the electrical connectors of the sensor to overheat, increasing the risk of a…

    The defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2012-2014 Passat vehicles equipped with TDI engines. Due to improperly assembled wire seals in a connector for an underbody sensor, water may enter and corrode the electrical connectors of the sensor, causing an electrical short.

    What can happen. An electrical short can cause the electrical connectors of the sensor to overheat, increasing the risk of a fire.

    The free fix. Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the connector, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began in September. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 23T3.

    NHTSA campaign 16V171000, reported 2016-09-15.

  20. Mar 2016 · 2015–2016 · Engine and Engine CoolingIf the camshaft lobe shears off there would be a loss of brake assist, lengthening the distance needed to…

    The defect. 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.

    What can happen. 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.

    The free fix. 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.

    NHTSA campaign 15V705000, reported 2016-03-09.

  21. Jan 2016 · 2012–2014 · Air BagsA loss of electrical connection to the driver's frontal air bag will prevent the air bag from deploying in…

    The defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2010-2014 Volkswagen CC, and Passat, 2010-2013 Eos, 2011-2014 Golf, GTI, Jetta, and Tiguan, and 2012-2014 Jetta Sportwagen vehicles. In the affected vehicles, debris may contaminate the air bag clock spring, a spiral wound, flat cable that keeps the air bag powered while the steering wheel is being turned. This contamination may tear the cable and result in a loss of electrical connection to the driver's frontal air bag.

    What can happen. A loss of electrical connection to the driver's frontal air bag will prevent the air bag from deploying in the event of a vehicle crash, increasing the risk of injury.

    The free fix. Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install a protective cover over the steering wheel clock spring if the air bag light is off. If the airbag light is on and the steering wheel clock spring requires replacement, dealers will install a new steering wheel clock spring. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on January 15, 2016. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-822-8987.

    NHTSA campaign 15V483000, reported 2016-01-15.

  22. Jun 2015 · 2015 · Service Brakes, HydraulicIf the brake line was not properly tightened, it may leak brake fluid, causing a reduction in braking…

    The defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2015 Passat vehicles manufactured May 18, 2015, to May 21, 2015. The affected vehicles have a brake line at the left rear wheel area that may not have been properly tightened.

    What can happen. If the brake line was not properly tightened, it may leak brake fluid, causing a reduction in braking performance, lengthening the distance needed to stop the vehicle and increasing the risk of crash.

    The free fix. Volkswagen has notified owners, and dealers will tighten the brake line fitting, free of charge. The recall began on June 11, 2015. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-822-8987. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 47M3.

    NHTSA campaign 15V373000, reported 2015-06-11.

  23. Feb 2015 · 2014–2015 · Fuel System, GasolineA fuel leak, in the presence of an ignition source, can result in a vehicle fire.

    The defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2014-2015 Jetta vehicles manufactured March 28, 2014, to November 24, 2014, 2014-2015 Passat vehicles manufactured April 7, 2014, to November 18, 2014, 2015 Golf and GTI vehicles manufactured July 1, 2014, to November 20, 2014, and 2014-2015 Beetle and Beetle Convertible vehicles manufactured March 31, 2014, to November 27, 2014. A sealing cap at the fuel rail may fail, allowing fuel to leak into the engine compartment.

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

    The free fix. Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel rails with new parts, free of charge. The recall began February 6, 2015. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-822-8987. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 24BL. Note: This recall expands and supersedes recall 14V-809 (Volkswagen recall number 24Bi) and only affects vehicles not previously repaired under that campaign.

    NHTSA campaign 15V028000, reported 2015-02-09.

  24. Nov 2014 · 2015 · SeatsUnexpected movement of the driver's seatback may distract the driver, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2015 Volkswagen Jetta and Passat vehicles manufactured September 23, 2014, to October 9, 2014, and equipped with manual front seatback recliners. In the affected vehicles, the seatback recliner retaining bracket may not engage correctly, resulting in unexpected movement of the seatback.

    What can happen. Unexpected movement of the driver's seatback may distract the driver, increasing the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the assembly of the seatback recliner retaining bracket, correcting it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began in October 2014. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 72F1.

    NHTSA campaign 14V670000, reported 2014-11-19.

  25. May 2014 · 2012–2013 · Exterior LightingA loss of low beam headlights may reduce the driver's visibility and increase the risk of a crash.

    The defect. Volkswagen Group of America (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Passat vehicles manufactured January 2011 through November 2012. In the affected vehicles, the low beam headlight bulb may become loose and lose electrical contact.

    What can happen. A loss of low beam headlights may reduce the driver's visibility and increase the risk of a crash.

    The free fix. Volkswagen notified owners, and dealers will replace the bulb holder, free of charge. The recall began in May 2014. Owners may contact Volkswagen at 1-800-822-8987. Volkswagens recall number associated with this campaign is 94G8/7V.

    NHTSA campaign 14V125000, reported 2014-05-13.

Showing the 25 most recent of 27 campaigns.

What owners reported

the contact owns a 2012 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated that when the accelerator pedal was depressed, the vehicle would hesitate before accelerating. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the dealer advised the contact that the failure was common, but there was nothing that could be done to fix the problem.…

2012 · 10 miles · Throttle and speed control

The speedometer does not register actual speeds. It is pessimistic by 4 MPH at highway speeds. Vw's own climatic control diagnostic readout indicates a speed that is 2 MPH greater than the speedometer reads. Furthermore, the tripometer average speed reads 3 MPH greater than the speedometer. Multiple gps units all…

2012 · 10 miles · Electrical system

the contact owns a 2012 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated that when applying the brake or accelerator pedal, the heel of her shoe would become stuck in the floor mat. The contact stated that she was concerned for her safety and the potential risk of becoming involved in a crash. The vehicle was not diagnosed or…

2012 · 10 miles · Throttle and speed control

This vehicle has stalled periodically (once a month?) At low speeds every since i purchased it new in (august?) 2012. Often the stall occurs at times in traffic when oncoming traffic makes it dangerous. I love this car, but this problem has often motivated me to sell it. It is a diesel. I have read online that this is…

2012 · 13 miles · Fuel and propulsion system

Built from 1,784 NHTSA complaints with mileage · snapshot 2026-08-18 · open data · reproduce this page

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