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Resources for the Repair and Maintenance of your Volkswagen Passat

Volkswagen Passat Models:

Image for car images Volkswagen 1990 1993 VW Passat size thumb Image for car images Volkswagen 1994 1996 VW Passat size thumb Image for car images Volkswagen 1999 1999 VW Passat size thumb Image for car images Volkswagen 2000 2005 VW Passat size thumb Image for car images Volkswagen 2006 2008 Volkswagen Passat size thumb Image for car images Volkswagen 2009 2010 Volkswagen Passat size thumb

Volkswagen Passat Problems

Engine Oil Leaks

Engine -- Verified

Oil leaks are common from the valve cover gaskets and camshaft chain tensioner gasket.

ABS Light Due to Control Module Failure

Brakes -- Verified

The anti-lock brake system (ABS) control module may fail causing the ABS light to illuminate. Failed modules should be replaced to restore ABS operation.

Flasher Relay Failure Can Cause Erratic Turn Signal Operation

Electrical & Lights -- Verified

Erratic turn signal operation can be a result of a failing turn signal flasher relay which will require replacement.

Inspect CV Boots and Joints at Each Service

Drive Train -- Verified

Our technicians recommend having the constant velocity (CV) boots and CV joints inspected at each service. Servicing torn CV boots early can prevent the need to replace the CV half shaft or CV joint.

Water From Clogged Sun Roof Drains May Damage Control Modules

Miscellaneous -- Verified

Clogged sunroof drains can allow water to enter the interior and accumulate under the carpet where various control modules are mounted. Over time, the accumulated moisture can damage the control modules.

Volkswagen Passat Recalls (Recent)

Volkswagen Passat Recall 07V063000

Electrical & Lights, April 27, 2007

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

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Engine Idle May Increase Without Warning

Engine, May 30, 2008

RepairPal Expert Overview:

The engine control module may not correctly control the idle speed with the air conditioning on. The could result in an unexpected idle surge, increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will update the engine control module software to correct this concern. This recall is expected to begin by May 30, 2008. The Volkswagen recall number is 24M9/R7.

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Volkswagen Recalls 1999-2005 Passat Models Due to Multiple Fuel System Issues

Engine, June 13, 2008

RepairPal Expert Overview:

The heat shield may become damaged and the fuel line/fuel tank ventilation valve may fracture and leak. Both of these conditions are potential fire hazards. Dealers will install an additional underbody heat shield and inspect and replace affected fuel components.

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Volkswagen Passat Recall 07V375000

Engine, September 28, 2007

Summary: ON CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 1.8L TURBO, 2.8L V6, OR 3.0L ENGINES, A CHANGE IN THE ELECTRICAL MOTOR COMPONENTS IN THE FUEL PUMP CAN LEAD TO AN INOPERATIVE FUEL PUMP AND, ULTIMATELY, STOPPAGE OF FUEL SUPPLY TO THE ENGINE CAUSING IT TO STALL.

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Volkswagen Recalls 2009 Passat Models Due to Malfunctioning Steering Gear Control Unit

Suspension & Steering, December 5, 2008

RepairPal Expert Overview:

Volkswagen is recalling 2009 Passat models because a damaged capacitor may cause the electromechanical steering gear control unit to malfunction. This may compromise the driver's steering input and cause vibration in the steering wheel, the steering system motor to shut off, audible warnings, and warning lights. Dealers will replace the steering gear in the affected vehicles.

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Volkswagen Passat Questions and Answers

adbois, 1992 Volkswagen Passat, 4 Cylinder, Topsham, ME

after I shut off my car the four way flashers come on but they don't flash. This happens all by itself.Or is it all four blinkers come on and don't flash. I don't know if it is my fourway flashers,...

katelyn, 1991 Volkswagen Passat, 2.0L 4 Cylinder, Klamath Falls, OR

front end makes noise on the passenger side like the axle is going out but when traveling straight. What are other possible causes of the noise?

Visitor, 1991 Volkswagen Passat, Miami, FL

I will buy this article, if obtain information.

Visitor, 1991 Volkswagen Passat, 2.0L 4 Cylinder, Owego, NY

The outside of the headlight glass has clouded over the last couple of years. Can it be cleaned?

robcast416, 1990 Volkswagen Passat, 2.0L 4 Cylinder, Tulare, CA

which is the correct line to install the freon and how much do i use

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Volkswagen Passat Stories

How much will it cost to replace a thermostat on a 2002 vw passat 2.8????

Have had my 2003 Passat 1.8l wagon for nearly 97,000 miles. Its been one of the nicest cars I've ever driven - especially the reassuring feel on the road - very safe, very stable, very solid, very German. I've had very few issues, but I'm also very religious about maintenance and have a great guy, Sergey at Absolute Auto in Alpharetta, working on it - he's talented and reasonably priced. I'd recommend this car to anyone, especially as opposed to a traditional German luxury car - which I think mine really is!

My 86k 2007 VW Passat engine siezed up 4 days after an oil change. I was driving, the oil pressure light came on, then immediately started making a loud noise, I immediately stopped the car and got it towed. I was notified by the dealer that there was sludge that caused low pressure and hence the engine siezing up.
I had taken to car to the VW dealer I bought it at numerous times complaining of high oil consumption and that the engine sounded like it was working too hard, but they could never find anything wrong with it. I will never buy or recommend a VW again.

I have had my VW Passat for 4 years and had numerous repairs . The capper is my VW just died at 66,000 miles .The engine siezed. Changed oil every 5k with synthetic oil and kept going back to the dealer for power loss and they could not figure out the issue, now my engine is seized.

The famous idiot light for oil pressure only came on in my 2006 Passat as the engine died on the freeway just after I had the oil changed!