Volkswagen Passat TDI turbo failure issue on Volkswagen Passat

Submitted by billjohn · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some Volkswagen Passat TDI owners report experiencing turbo failure issues, particularly in models from 2012 to 2014, with many complaints and forum discussions highlighting turbine problems in the 2.0 TDI diesel engines. A common symptom of this turbo failure is a sudden loss of power while driving, making it challenging to accelerate or maintain speed. Additionally, some owners have encountered turbo failures at relatively low mileage, such as at 18,000 miles, indicating premature issues with the turbochargers. The primary cause of turbocharger failure in these vehicles is often attributed to oil contamination. Furthermore, there was a recall for a specific turbo in the 2012 Volkswagen Passat TDI, which included an extended warranty of 10 years or 120,000 miles for the affected turbochargers. These concerns underscore the importance of addressing turbo failure promptly to avoid further complications.

0 people 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