Volkswagen Passat smoke from engine bay and overheating battery compartment with no warning lights on Volkswagen Passat

Some Volkswagen Passat owners report experiencing smoke from the engine bay and overheating in the battery compartment without any warning lights, indicating a potentially serious issue that requires immediate attention. These issues may stem from overheating due to a malfunctioning cooling system or problems with the battery itself. Additionally, smoke from the engine bay could be caused by burning oil or a melting wiring harness. A common concern is a coolant leak, which can lead to white exhaust smoke and further overheating issues. Some owners have also faced catastrophic engine damage due to a blown head gasket, presenting symptoms like overheating and white smoke from the exhaust. Even if the smoke does not have an electrical or rubber smell, it may still signal a serious problem that needs prompt resolution. It is essential for owners to have their vehicles inspected by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and address these underlying issues, as ignoring them could result in further damage to the engine or other components.