Volkswagen Passat unable to accelerate above 20 mph after 30 minutes of driving at 40 mph on Volkswagen Passat

Submitted by Vehicle Owner · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some Volkswagen Passat owners report experiencing acceleration issues, specifically being unable to exceed 20 mph after driving at 40 mph for 30 minutes. This problem may stem from restricted fuel or air filters, which can impede proper fuel flow and air intake. Additionally, some owners notice jerking when pressing the accelerator, indicating a potential misfire that could be affecting performance. Transmission problems, such as hesitation during acceleration, may also contribute to this issue. Furthermore, a malfunctioning throttle motor can lead to difficulties in transitioning from lower to higher speeds. To resolve these concerns, it is advisable for owners to inspect filters for clogs, diagnose any misfire issues, check the transmission system, and evaluate the throttle motor to ensure proper functionality.

1 person reported this problem
0 comments
Schedule Repair

Volkswagen Passat vehicles with this problem

0 model year affected

Search for another problem

RepairPal Car Genius

Ask our experts about your Volkswagen.

RepairPal Car Genius™ is a free resource for vehicle owners seeking advice on maintenance, auto repair, shop inquiries, estimates, and finding a trustworthy repair shop in your area.

 Auto Repair Expert Auto Repair Expert

Call us at 877-913-1554

Available 9am – 6pm ET Monday through Friday

Call Our Experts