2013 Volkswagen Passat Problems & Owner Complaints

Air Bags 381 21 crash 18 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2013 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. WHILE PROCEEDING TO STOP AT A RED LIGHT, THE VEHICLE INDEPENDENTLY ACCELERATED WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE VEHICLE FAILED TO STOP AND CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED AND SCRAP METAL PASSED THROUGH THE REAR DRIVER SIDE PASSENGER. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED SEVERE INJURIES TO THE HAND AND THE PASSENGER SUSTAINED A BROKEN RIB. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS REQUIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V078000 (AIR BAGS). THE PARTS…”
NHTSA complaint #10916621, 2016 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“DRIVERS SIDE AIRBAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY IN SIDE COLLISION INVOLVING A PICKUP TRUCK THAT HIT THE DRIVER'S SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE PASSAT WAS TURNING LEFT AT THE TIME OF THE COLLISION AND TRAVELING AT APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH. THE PICKUP WAS UNLAWFULLY OVERTAKING SEVERAL VEHICLES AND TRAVELING AT AN ESTIMATED SPEED OF 65 MPH. THE IMPACT WAS NEAR THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE WHEEL.”
NHTSA complaint #10894647, 2016 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“MY NAME IS [XXX]. MY WIFE AND SON WAS INVOLVED IN A HEAD-ON COLLISION BACK LAST YEAR ON MAY 02, 2014. WIFE WAS SITTING STILL AT A LIGHT WAITING FOR LIGHT TO TURN GREEN IN ORDER TO TURN LEFT WHEN A CAR HEADING FROM OPPOSITE DIRECTION RAN A RED LIGHT SLAMMED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE AND THEN SLAMMED HEAD ON INTO MY WIFE'S CAR WHICH WAS SITTING STILL AT APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH AND THEN AIR BAGS IN THE CAR DID NOT DEPLOY. DUE TO THE IMPACT, WIFE'S HEAD WAS SLAMMED INTO STEERING WHEEL GIVING HER A CONCUSSION AND BLACKING OUT AND GETTING HURT BADLY AND MY SON WAS SITTING IN PASSENGER SEAT AND JARRED AR…”
NHTSA complaint #10775457, 2014 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

Engine 104 3 crash 4 fire 4 injury 2 death

“MINOR FRONT END COLLISION CAUSING EXPLOSION OF CAR CAUSING MY SON TO BURN TO DEATH”
NHTSA complaint #11319890, 2020 · crash · fire · 1 death(s)

“VEHICLE STRUCK A TREE AND CAUGHT ON FIRE. MY BROTHER IN LAW WAS KILLED.”
NHTSA complaint #11318668, 2020 · crash · fire · 1 death(s)

“TAKATA INFLATORS I GOT INTO A VEHICLE COLLISION WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE AND SUFFERED A CONCUSSION DUE TO MY AIRBAGS FAILING TO DEPLOY IN MY VEHICLE.”
NHTSA complaint #11244622, 2019 · crash · 3 injury(ies)

Electrical System 93 1 crash 2 fire 1 death

“MINOR FRONT END COLLISION CAUSING EXPLOSION OF CAR CAUSING MY SON TO BURN TO DEATH”
NHTSA complaint #11319890, 2020 · crash · fire · 1 death(s)

“2013 PASSAT TDI. 136000 MILES. VEHICLE WAS DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS AND THE GLOW PLUG LIGHT STARTED TO FLASH, NO OTHER INDICATOR LIGHTS OR CAR PERFORMANCE ISSUES WERE NOTED AT THIS TIME. CAR WAS PULLED OVER SAFETY TO A TOWN WITHIN 5 MILES, THE CAR WAS SHUT DOWN. JUST TO SEE IF IT WAS A GLITCH CAR WAS RESTARTED BRIEFLY AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT REMAINED ON. CAR WAS IMMEDIATELY TURNED OFF. WHILE ON THE PHONE RELAYING MY INFORMATION TO FAMILY, BYSTANDERS ADVISED ME THAT THE CAR WAS ON FIRE BELOW THE ENGINE BAY. THE FIRE WAS QUICKLY PUT OUT WITH WATER. THE DAMAGE SEEMS TO BE IN THE SAME…”
NHTSA complaint #11350674, 2020 · fire

“In April 2025, my 2013 Volkswagen Passat developed serious issues: the steering wheel cover is lifted, horn and steering wheel controls stopped working, lights malfunctioned, and now the vehicle will not start. It also has an open Takata airbag recall with no parts available until “after june” I contacted the dealership by phone and Spoke to Lykoto at Molle dealership in Kansas City. they have refused to provide a tow or a loaner vehicle. Due to this I have not had an in-person inspection. I no longer feel safe driving the car. The Manufacturer has been notified of this via email due to their…”
NHTSA complaint #11656938, 2025

Unknown Or Other 77 2 crash 1 injury

“MY FIANCE WAS TAKING A LEFT TURN CROSSING A BUSY ROAD DURING HOURS OF DUSK. HEADLIGHTS WERE ON. HE WAS NOT ABLE TO SEE THE OPENING OF THE ROAD WHEN TURNING AND DROVE OVER THE SIDE WALK AND CRASHED. FRONT AIR BAGS DEPLOYED AND WINDSHIELD CRACKED. 3 TIRED POPPED ALONG WITH OTHER FONT END BODY DAMAGE. I HAD JUST PURCHASED CAR FROM A DEALERSHIP A FEW MONTHS EARLIER. LATER I RESEARCHED ANY RECALLS ON MY VEHICLE AND A RECALL DEALING WITH HEADLIGHT ISSUES AND THE HEADLIGHTS ON MY VEHICLE NOT BEING ABLE TO BE ADJUSTED PROPERLY, CAME UP. IF THIS ISSUE WAS FIXED BEFORE I BOUGHT THE CAR, MY FIANCE WOULD…”
NHTSA complaint #11321587, 2020 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“On 4/12/2023 - I was traveling on highway 4 in the afternoon headed back home from work. While driving around 70mph all in sudden without any warning front driver side wheel locked up and causing the car to pull hard on driver side. I hit the retaining divider while trying my best to not to hit any other cars. This should be a recall a major one as no car should lock up like this”
NHTSA complaint #11517226, 2023 · crash

“Def system failed- cel came on w def light stating xxx miles to no start, codes p204f & 18097, now unable to start or drive car safely, 18097 code may cause abs & steering to shut off while driving & p204f renders the car unusable. EPA mod was never performed on my car per dieselgate settlement rules- & now the manufacturer(vw) is refusing to fix their mistake car has been in shop repeatedly for 30+ days at a time since 2022 for the def system and not once was the epa mod mentioned to me VW refuses to fix the def system or do the epa required mod- meaning I was sold a stop sale car. Also clai…”
NHTSA complaint #11639689, 2025

Fuel/Propulsion System 65 4 crash 3 fire 2 death

“MINOR FRONT END COLLISION CAUSING EXPLOSION OF CAR CAUSING MY SON TO BURN TO DEATH”
NHTSA complaint #11319890, 2020 · crash · fire · 1 death(s)

“VEHICLE STRUCK A TREE AND CAUGHT ON FIRE. MY BROTHER IN LAW WAS KILLED.”
NHTSA complaint #11318668, 2020 · crash · fire · 1 death(s)

“2013 PASSAT TDI. 136000 MILES. VEHICLE WAS DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS AND THE GLOW PLUG LIGHT STARTED TO FLASH, NO OTHER INDICATOR LIGHTS OR CAR PERFORMANCE ISSUES WERE NOTED AT THIS TIME. CAR WAS PULLED OVER SAFETY TO A TOWN WITHIN 5 MILES, THE CAR WAS SHUT DOWN. JUST TO SEE IF IT WAS A GLITCH CAR WAS RESTARTED BRIEFLY AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT REMAINED ON. CAR WAS IMMEDIATELY TURNED OFF. WHILE ON THE PHONE RELAYING MY INFORMATION TO FAMILY, BYSTANDERS ADVISED ME THAT THE CAR WAS ON FIRE BELOW THE ENGINE BAY. THE FIRE WAS QUICKLY PUT OUT WITH WATER. THE DAMAGE SEEMS TO BE IN THE SAME…”
NHTSA complaint #11350674, 2020 · fire

Exterior Lighting 60 1 crash

“I WAS PULLING SLOWLY INTO A PARKING SPACE, AND THE CAR SUDDENLY SURGED AND HIT A PARKING METER POLE. THE SAME THING HAPPENED AGAIN SIX AND A HALF WEEKS LATER, AGAIN AT VERY LOW SPEED. THIS TIME THE CAR HIT THE WALL OF THE PARKING RAMP, AND THE DRIVER'S AIRBAG DEPLOYED. IN BOTH CASES, IT WAS THE FIRST TIME THE CAR HAD BEEN DRIVEN THAT MORNING, A DISTANCE OF ABOUT THREE MILES. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10629071, 2014 · crash

“Passenger side headlight went out. The problem was not the bulb or fuse. This issue seems to perfectly match Safety Recall 94G8, but for some reason my car is not covered in that recall notice, even though safety recall 94G8 is for "some" 2012-2013 VW Passats, which is what I drive.”
NHTSA complaint #11736609, 2026

“In April 2025, my 2013 Volkswagen Passat developed serious issues: the steering wheel cover is lifted, horn and steering wheel controls stopped working, lights malfunctioned, and now the vehicle will not start. It also has an open Takata airbag recall with no parts available until “after june” I contacted the dealership by phone and Spoke to Lykoto at Molle dealership in Kansas City. they have refused to provide a tow or a loaner vehicle. Due to this I have not had an in-person inspection. I no longer feel safe driving the car. The Manufacturer has been notified of this via email due to their…”
NHTSA complaint #11656938, 2025

Steering 51 1 crash

“CAR OWNER WAS DRIVING AT APPROX. 60MPH REACHED ACROSS THE SEAT THE CAR SWERVED SHE OVER CORRECTED TWICE DUE TO VERY "TOUCHY" STEERING. THE CAR THEN CAREENED ACROSS FOUR LANES OF TRAFFIC, AND DOWN A 30FT EMBANKMENT BOUNCING OFF SEVERAL TREES. THEN STRIKING ONE HEAD ON WITH ENOUGH FORCE AS TO BEND AND PUSH BACK THE FRAME. NONE OF THE FIVE AIR BAGS THIS CAR IS FACTORY EQUIPPED WITH DEPLOYED. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED MANY BUMPS AND BRUISES ALONG WITH A SHATTERED ANKLE WHICH REQUIRED SURGERY TO PLACE TWO STEEL PLATES IN HER ANKLE. RECOVERY IS EXPECTED BUT IT WILL TAKE SEVERAL MONTHS. UPON REPORTING…”
NHTSA complaint #10523998, 2013 · crash

“Failed clock spring. Airbag light was present and a rattling noise, when turning, was noticed. Less than 72 hours later, the buttons on the steering wheel, including horn, stopped working, and a louder crack/pop was heard.”
NHTSA complaint #11651424, 2025

“On 5/4/24 I was reverse parking & heard a clunk as I was turning my steering wheel then immediately noticed the airbag light come on. Attempted to check any error messages using the only menu control for the vehicle on the steering wheel that did not work. That led me to attempt to test all other controls on the steering wheel which also did not work. During these attempts, I identified that my horn was also not working. Due to the large safety concern this caused, I quickly searched on Google what the cause may be then immediately made an appointment at an auto shop (Greulich's Automotive Rep…”
NHTSA complaint #11587766, 2024

Power Train 33 2 crash

“MECHATRONICS UNIT FAILURE- I WAS ON HIGHWAY TRAVELING AT 74 MILES PER HOUR AND CAR JUST SLOWED DOWN TO ABOUT 10 MILE PER HOUR WITH NO ....I WAS IN RUSH HOUR TRAFFIC ON THE NYS STATE THRUWAY AND WAS ALSO SLAMMED IN THE REAR END BY CARS/TRUCKS TRAVELING BEHIND ME. THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUED WITH VW AND OLDER MODELS OF MY CAR HAVE BEEN RECALLED. I COASTED OFF THE HIGHWAY AND WAS TOWED FROM THE EXIT TO HEART VW IN KINGSTON NY. MY CAR IN BEING REPAIRED NOW AND I AM TOLD IT WILL BE $2000+ TO FIX ... I HAVE ESTIMATE AND REPORT FROM WHEN CAR TOWED IN.”
NHTSA complaint #10925037, 2016 · crash

“I WAS DRIVING IN THE RIGHT LANE OF I-84 SHIFTING FROM 5TH TO 6TH WHEN THE CLUTCH PEDAL STAYED ON THE FLOOR AND THE CAR SLOWLY CAME TO A STOP WITH NO SUDDEN JERKING MOTION. THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS NOT INVOLVED NOR DID IT STAY ON THE FLOOR AS THE CLUTCH DID. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10608238, 2014 · crash

“The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated that while driving at 55 MPH, there was an abnormal metallic sound coming from the vehicle. Additionally, there was an odor of smoke and burnt rubber. The contact was able to pull over safely. The contact stated that there was a hole in the engine. The contact stated that the transmission had exploded. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V182000 (Power Train); however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic. The local dealer was not…”
NHTSA complaint #11636226, 2025

Structure 31 4 crash 5 injury

“TAKATA INFLATORS I GOT INTO A VEHICLE COLLISION WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE AND SUFFERED A CONCUSSION DUE TO MY AIRBAGS FAILING TO DEPLOY IN MY VEHICLE.”
NHTSA complaint #11244622, 2019 · crash · 3 injury(ies)

“MY FIANCE WAS TAKING A LEFT TURN CROSSING A BUSY ROAD DURING HOURS OF DUSK. HEADLIGHTS WERE ON. HE WAS NOT ABLE TO SEE THE OPENING OF THE ROAD WHEN TURNING AND DROVE OVER THE SIDE WALK AND CRASHED. FRONT AIR BAGS DEPLOYED AND WINDSHIELD CRACKED. 3 TIRED POPPED ALONG WITH OTHER FONT END BODY DAMAGE. I HAD JUST PURCHASED CAR FROM A DEALERSHIP A FEW MONTHS EARLIER. LATER I RESEARCHED ANY RECALLS ON MY VEHICLE AND A RECALL DEALING WITH HEADLIGHT ISSUES AND THE HEADLIGHTS ON MY VEHICLE NOT BEING ABLE TO BE ADJUSTED PROPERLY, CAME UP. IF THIS ISSUE WAS FIXED BEFORE I BOUGHT THE CAR, MY FIANCE WOULD…”
NHTSA complaint #11321587, 2020 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“A PASSENGER EXITED REAR PASSENGER SIDE DOOR. WHEN HE PUT HIS HAND OUTSIDE THE CAR AS HE EXITED, ONE OF HIS FINGERS RECEIVED A DEEP CUT. AFTER THE INCIDENT, WE INSPECTED THE CAR AND FOUND OUT A SHARP POINT AT THE END OF A CHROME TRIM ALONG THE WINDOW/ROOF LINE. LATER I INSPECTED FURTHER AND FOUND OTHER LOCATIONS NEAR THE DOORS WHERE SHARP EDGES/POINTS EXIST. THIS IS HAZARDOUS AS PASSENGERS ENTER OR EXIT THE CAR. PARTS OF BODY AND/OR HAND CAN RECEIVE CUT WOUND IF CONTACTED WITH THESE SHARP EDGES/POINTS. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10546622, 2013 · 1 injury(ies)

Fuel System 22

“The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated that shortly after refueling the vehicle and driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle experienced a loss of automotive power. The check engine warning light illuminated. The contact pulled over to the shoulder of the road and the vehicle was towed to the residence. The contact stated that the vehicle was diagnosed on scene by an independent mechanic with metal shavings inside the fuel lines. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that a high-pressure fuel pump and fuel system replacement wa…”
NHTSA complaint #11665824, 2025

“The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated that while driving at 65 MPH, the "Glow Plug" warning light appeared on the instrument panel and the vehicle stalled. After several minutes, the contact was able to restart the vehicle and drove the vehicle home while in LIMP Mode. The contact used a code reader which showed that there was a defect with the high-pressure fuel pump. The dealer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the vehicle was out of warranty. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileag…”
NHTSA complaint #11575991, 2024

“The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle decelerated inadvertently, failed to respond upon depressing the brake pedal, and lost motive power. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact was unable to pull to the side of the road. The vehicle failed to restart and was towed to the dealer, where the EGR valve was replaced; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was towed several times, to a second dealer, Tracy Volkswagen (2605 Auto Plaza Way, Tracy, CA 95304), and an unknown turbocharger part, the fuel t…”
NHTSA complaint #11543941, 2020

Visibility/Wiper 19

“VW has replaced the heater core twice on this car. Yet less than 1 year later the heat will not work on just the passenger side which then foggs the windows and eliminates visablility rendering the car useless.”
NHTSA complaint #11565636, 2023

“Plugged heater core. OBD code present P2457. Defroster was compromised. Confirmed by VW dealer. Advised by manufacturer to replace heater core and flush system per technical test and repair procedure.”
NHTSA complaint #11441771, 2021

“NO HEAT COMING FROM BLOCKED HEATER CORE SO DEFROST SYSTEM INEFFECTIVE. RESULT IS OBSTRUCTED VISION BECAUSE THE DEFROST SYSTEM IS NOT WORKING EFFICIENTLY. KNOWN DEFECTIVE PART ON THIS MODEL CAR (INTERNET RESEARCH) BUT VW REFUSES TO RECALL. HAPPENS AT ALL TIMES, STATIONARY AND MOVING. NO HEAT IN PASSENGER CABIN AT ALL.”
NHTSA complaint #11397799, 2021

Vehicle Speed Control 15 2 crash 2 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2013 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. WHILE PROCEEDING TO STOP AT A RED LIGHT, THE VEHICLE INDEPENDENTLY ACCELERATED WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE VEHICLE FAILED TO STOP AND CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED AND SCRAP METAL PASSED THROUGH THE REAR DRIVER SIDE PASSENGER. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED SEVERE INJURIES TO THE HAND AND THE PASSENGER SUSTAINED A BROKEN RIB. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS REQUIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V078000 (AIR BAGS). THE PARTS…”
NHTSA complaint #10916621, 2016 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“I WAS PULLING SLOWLY INTO A PARKING SPACE, AND THE CAR SUDDENLY SURGED AND HIT A PARKING METER POLE. THE SAME THING HAPPENED AGAIN SIX AND A HALF WEEKS LATER, AGAIN AT VERY LOW SPEED. THIS TIME THE CAR HIT THE WALL OF THE PARKING RAMP, AND THE DRIVER'S AIRBAG DEPLOYED. IN BOTH CASES, IT WAS THE FIRST TIME THE CAR HAD BEEN DRIVEN THAT MORNING, A DISTANCE OF ABOUT THREE MILES. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10629071, 2014 · crash

“I was on top of Beech Mountain NC working at a customer's house when it started to snow. I was at the bottom of their driveway and when I attempted to drive out, the traction control light would turn on, indicating I was losing traction. When this happened, I was unable to accelerate any more and the car started sliding backwards. So sitting in the car in the snow, I pulled up YouTube to figure out the "procedure" to disable traction control so I could get more speed. Turn the car off, ignition on, activate the flashers, push the brake pedal multiple times, then start the car. Traction contro…”
NHTSA complaint #11648878, 2025

Suspension 13

“The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40-60 MPH and driving over the roadway, the rear coil spring fractured. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact called the local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the VIN was not under recall. The approximate failure mileage was 177,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11649537, 2025

“Stalling? Have to put in DRIVE in order to forward in order to get car to back up? Air bags Clock wheel has more connection to what wrong/Air bags connections is Connected to HORN (which stopped working) DRIVE? all the refuses are working fine. horn not work; Dangerous driving in CALIIFORNIA without a HORN** I just want ALL is for them to REPLACE the PARTS OF MY VW 2013 PASSAT WITHOUT ANY CHARGE Whatsoever; even an UNNECESSARY FEE** I am driving a car with DEFECTIVE AIR BAGS, TIRES HEADLIGHTS, Suspension, SEATBELTS PROBLEMS, TRANSMISSIONS PRBLEMS, steering, electrical, system THAT CAN EXPLOD…”
NHTSA complaint #11572469, 2023

“I noticed my car was sitting lower than normal all the way around. While driving, I heard some unusual noises coming from the rear. I took the car to a mechanic for evaluation. The mechanic said three of the four coil springs had broken (both rear and drivers side on the front. I did some research and found there is an existing recall for broken springs in Volkswagen automobiles. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 42J5. NHTSA’s campaign number: 19V188000.”
NHTSA complaint #11492028, 2022

Electronic Stability Control (Esc) 10

“HELLO I PURCHASE MY PASSAT 2013 LAST YEAR IN DECEMBER IT NEVER GAVE ME A PROBLEM BUT THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AN IT WOULDN GO OFF THAN THE ALL KIND OF DIFFERENT SYMBOLS CAME ACROSS MY DASHBOARD SO I TOOK IT TO THE MECHANIC THEY SAY I NEED NEW GLOW PIPES SO I GOT NEW GLOW PIPES AFTER THEY GOT REPLACED MY CAR STILL WOULDN'T WORK SO THEY SAYED I NEEDED A TURBO ACTUATOR BROUGHT THE TURBO ACTUATOR AN THE MECHANIC CHANGE IT MY CAR STILL WOULDN'T WORK IT WOULDN'T PICK UP SPEED OR NOTHING THE LIGHTS ON THE DASHBOARD HAS BEEN RESTED SEVERAL DIFFERENT TIMES STILL WOULDN'T GO AWAY SO I CALL A ANOTHER MEC…”
NHTSA complaint #11365860, 2020

“MY 2013 VW PASSAT 3.6 SEL LACKS A ELEC STABILITY CONTROL SWITCH ON THE VEHICLE. AS A RESULT, THE TRACTION IS TERRIBLE ON THIS VEHICLE IN RAIN, SNOW, AND SLEET. THE ENGINE HAS A KNOCKING NOISE, EVEN THOUGH I SERVICE THE VEHICLE AT VW EVERY 10,000 MILES AS REQUIRED IN THE OWNER'S MANUAL. THIS VEHICLE HAS MAJOR ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS, SUCH AS THE SEAT BELT LIGHT ILLUMINATING, AND I LOSE TENSION IN MY DRIVER SEAT BELT. THAT IS A HUGE SAFETY FLAW FOR THIS $40,000 VEHICLE.”
NHTSA complaint #11162787, 2018

“PULLING OUT OF DRIVEWAY EPC LIGHT COMES ON. TOTAL LOSS OF POWER AND ENGINE SPEED SET TO 1800RPM IN "SAFE MODE" NO ONE KNOWS EXACTLY WHAT IS WRONG. MECHANICS CANNOT TTELL ME WHAT IS WRONG. DEALERSHIP VW HAS NO IDEA AND WANT TO START REPLACING ITEMS IN DESCRIMINATELY AND I DON'T HAVE THAT KIND OF MONEY TO THROW AROUND AND BESIDES. THE PEOPLE THAT BUILT THE CAR CAN'T FIGURE IT OUT. THIS IS A HUGE SAFETY ISSUE. COMPUTER FAULTS AND SHUTS DOWN THE POWER AT HIWAY SPEEDS AND SOMETIMES CAR STALLS OUT. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS AND HAPPENING TO HUNDREDS MAYBE THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE I'M READING ONLINE AND TAL…”
NHTSA complaint #11115689, 2018

Service Brakes 8 1 crash 2 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2013 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. WHILE PROCEEDING TO STOP AT A RED LIGHT, THE VEHICLE INDEPENDENTLY ACCELERATED WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE VEHICLE FAILED TO STOP AND CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED AND SCRAP METAL PASSED THROUGH THE REAR DRIVER SIDE PASSENGER. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED SEVERE INJURIES TO THE HAND AND THE PASSENGER SUSTAINED A BROKEN RIB. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS REQUIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V078000 (AIR BAGS). THE PARTS…”
NHTSA complaint #10916621, 2016 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was depressed, but the vehicle failed to stop immediately. The brake pedal was depressed several times before the vehicle came to a complete stop. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 125,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11566262, 2023

“AS I WAS TURNING INTO THE APARTMENT COMPLEX I FELT MY BRAKES BEGIN TO LOCK UP. I PULLED INTO MY PARKING SPOT AND THE INSIDE OF THE CAB BEGAN TO SMOKE. MY CAR GAVE ME NO WARNING AND I COULD NOT LOCATE THE ISSUES OF THE SMOKE. I CALLED MY MECHANIC AND GOT THE VEHICLE TOWED OVER THERE. WHILE THE CAR WAS GETTING TOWED, OIL BEGAN TO FALL FROM BELOW THE ENGINE. MECHANIC REPORTED THE VACUUM PUMP WENT BAD. THAT IT ALSO LOCKED UP AND WAS LEAKING HEAVILY. HE ALSO STATED THIS WAS THE WORSE HE HAS EVER SEEN AS WELL AS TO REPORT THIS INCIDENT. I WILL INCLUDE PHOTOS WITH THIS REPORT.”
NHTSA complaint #11398616, 2021

Wheels 8

“2014 PASSAT WITH CONTINETAL CONTIPRO TIRES. MY REAR TIRE SIDEWALL BLEW ON HIGHWAY. WITH 60K MILES. I TRACKED MY PATH DID NOT FIND ANY DEBRIS THAT COULD HAVE CAUSE THE BLOW OUT. IVE SEEN MANY CONPLAINTS ABOUT THIS TIRE FOR SAME THING. THEY SHOULD BE CHECKED WE DONT WANT FIRESTONE PART 2”
NHTSA complaint #11360045, 2020

“CAR DEALER CLAIMED THEY HAD FIXED ALL NECESSARY REPAIRS TO CAR THAT I HAD SAID WERE NEEDED PRIOR TO ME PURCHASING. THE INDICATOR LIGHTS WENT OFF AS SOON AS CAR GOT MOVING. CONTACTED AUTO DEALER WHO SAID THEY WOULD TAKE IT BACK IN AND GET IT TAKEN CARE OF. THEN REFUSED TO WORK ON CAR, TOLD ME TO TAKE IT TO MECHANIC NEAR ME AND SEND THEM THE INFORMATION TO HAVE IT COVERED. THEN REFUSED TO PAY FOR REPAIRS TO CAR. DUE TO THEIR INCORPORATION AND REFUSALS NEARLY RESULTED IN ACCIDENT WHEN CAR TIRE BLEW OUT WHILE DRIVING THROUGH TOWN. CAR WAS GOING AT LOW ENOUGH SPEED TO STOP BEFORE MORE DAMAGES COULD…”
NHTSA complaint #11322983, 2020

“I'VE HAD MY 2013 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT 3.6 SEL PREMIUM SINCE 6/2017, AND I HAVE BOUGHT 2 SETS OF VW WHEEL CENTER CAPS, BECAUSE THEY KEEP FAILING OFF. IT'S QUITE OBVIOUS THIS IS A MANUFACTURER'S DEFECT WITH VOLKSWAGEN. THIS IS AN EXPENSIVE VEHICLE, AND VOLKSWAGEN SHOULD DO A BETTER JOB AT ENGINEERING PARTS THAT DON'T FALL OFF OF THE CAR. THESE WHEEL CAPS ARE ROUGHLY $26 AT VOLKSWAGEN BEFORE TAX.”
NHTSA complaint #11019899, 2017

Engine And Engine Cooling 5

“The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated the vehicle was repaired in 2016 for an unknown failure. The contact reported that on multiple occasions, while driving at various speeds, the vehicle began to overheat, with a beeping sound. The contact stated that the temperature gauge started to rise and that an abnormal odor was coming through the vents. The vehicle was veered to the side of the road after smoke was seen coming from the engine compartment. The contact allowed the vehicle cool down before restarting. Additionally, on several occasions while stopped, the vehicle o…”
NHTSA complaint #11514642, 2023

“The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle decelerated inadvertently, failed to respond upon depressing the brake pedal, and lost motive power. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact was unable to pull to the side of the road. The vehicle failed to restart and was towed to the dealer, where the EGR valve was replaced; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was towed several times, to a second dealer, Tracy Volkswagen (2605 Auto Plaza Way, Tracy, CA 95304), and an unknown turbocharger part, the fuel t…”
NHTSA complaint #11543941, 2020

“2013 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO NO COMMUNICATION FROM CUSTOMER SERVICE REGARDING EMISSIONS ISSUES OR AIRBAG RECALL REPAIRS. CONSUMER STATES WANTS TO BE CONSIDERED FOR BUY-BACK PROGRAM. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED TWO WEEKS AGO, THE NITROGEN EMISSIONS SENSOR CAME ON DUE TO THE ONGOING ISSUE WITH THE EMISSIONS SYSTEM. *JB”
NHTSA complaint #10875108, 2016

Tires 5

“PRIMEWELL VALERA TOURING II 215/55R 17 TIRES. THE TIRES AFTER 5000 MILES HAVE DEVELOPED A ROARING SOUND AND THE SIDEWALLS ARE CRACKED. THE ROARING HAS BECOME SO LOUD I HAD THE WHEEL BEARINGS REPLACED BECAUSE OF THE NOISE. THE NOISE IS IN FACT COMING FROM THE TIRES. THE TIRES WERE BOUGHT BY THE DEALER WE PURCHASED THE CAR FROM. IN FACT, IT WAS PART OF THE DEAL THAT THE CAR HAD NEW TIRES PUT ON. BECAUSE OF THIS FACT, THE TIRES ARE NOT UNDER WARRANTY. I TOOK THE CAR TO MY LOCAL FIRESTONE DEALER, THEY HAVE PRIMEWELL TIRES MADE EXCLUSIVELY FOR THEM. THE DEALER WAS NICE ENOUGH AND TOLD ME…”
NHTSA complaint #11022381, 2017

“CONTINENTAL TIRE TYPE 235/45/R18. I HAD A SIDE WALL BLOWOUT ON I-95 WHILE DRIVING AT A SPEED OF 65MPH. THE TIRES CAME ON A 2013 VW PASSAT TDI SEL. THE DEALER IN HYANNIS, MA WHERE I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE SAID THAT IT MUST HAVE BEEN SOMETHING THAT I DID. THE TIRES HAD 16,500 MILES IN THEM WITH A TREAD WEAR OF 2/32 (ALMOST BRAND NEW). THE DEALER ALSO SAID THAT THEY WERE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE TIRES THAT COME ON THEIR VEHICLES. THIS WEBSITE HAS NUMEROUS POSTS HAVING TO DO WITH CONTINENTAL TIRE SIDE WALL BLOWOUTS. I BELIEVE THIS TO BE A POTENTIALLY SERIOUS ISSUE.”
NHTSA complaint #10746698, 2015

“CONTINENTAL TIRE TYPE 235/45/R18. I HAD A SIDE WALL BLOWOUT ON I-95 WHILE DRIVING AT A SPEED OF 65MPH. THE TIRES CAME ON A 2013 VW PASSAT TDI SEL. THE DEALER IN HYANNIS, MA WHERE I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE SAID THAT IT MUST HAVE BEEN SOMETHING THAT I DID. THE TIRES HAD 16,500 MILES IN THEM WITH A TREAD WEAR OF 2/32 (ALMOST BRAND NEW). THE DEALER ALSO SAID THAT THEY WERE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE TIRES THAT COME ON THEIR VEHICLES. THIS WEBSITE HAS NUMEROUS POSTS HAVING TO DO WITH CONTINENTAL TIRE SIDE WALL BLOWOUTS. I BELIEVE THIS TO BE A POTENTIALLY SERIOUS ISSUE.”
NHTSA complaint #10746699, 2015

Back Over Prevention 4

“THE BACKUP CAMERA IN THIS VEHICLE FREQUENTLY FAILS TO ACTIVATE WHEN THE VEHICLE IS PLACED IN REVERSE. VW OFFICIALS ACKNOWLEDGE, IN A WRITTEN RESPONSE, A DELAY TIME OF ONE (1) TO TWO (2) MINUTES BEFORE THE CAMERA WILL ACTIVATE. IT IS AN UNREASONABLE EXPECTATION, FROM A CONSUMER / DRIVER STANDPOINT, TO WAIT 1 TO 2 MINUTES FOR A CAMERA TO ACTIVATE FOR A DRIVER TO DETERMINE IF IT IS SAFE TO BACKUP. VW CONTINUES TO IGNORE THIS DEFICIENCY DESPITE THE NUMBER OF DEATHS AND INJURIES EACH YEAR CAUSED BY BACKUP ACCIDENTS. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10610603, 2013

“AS MANY OTHERS HAVE STATED ON THIS SITE AND ALL OVER THE INTERNET, THE BACK-UP CAMERA IS RIDICULOUSLY SLOW TO COME ON. MOST TIMES, I CAN BACK OUT OF MY DRIVEWAY, STOP, AND BE GOING FORWARD DOWN THE STREET BEFORE THE BACK-UP CAMERA EVEN COMES ON. AT THAT POINT, I'M DRIVING UP TO A BLOCK AWAY WITH MY BACK-UP CAMERA STILL ON. WHILE MOST OF THE TIME THIS IS SIMPLY AN ANNOYING INCONVENIENCE, IT IS ALSO A VERY REAL SAFETY ISSUE. ONE OF THE REASONS I BUY CARS WITH BACK-UP CAMERAS IS TO MAKE SURE I'M ABLE TO SEE ANYTHING SMALL (LIKE A CHILD, BIKE, ETC.) BEHIND THE CAR WHILE BACKING THAT MY MIRRO…”
NHTSA complaint #10511419, 2013

“BACKUP CAMERA IS SLOW TO START. MAY TAKE FROM 5 TO 20 SECONDS TO BECOME OPERATIONAL AFTER START UP. THIS IS HAZARD WITH RESPECT TO RELIANCE ON BACKUP CAMERAS BY DRIVERS TO SEE OBSTRUCTIONS BEHIND THE CAR. FAILURE OF CAMERA TO START UP QUICKLY RESULTS IN REDUCED SAFETY BECAUSE DRIVERS WILL BACK UP WITHOUT CAMERA OPERATIONAL. I CAN START MY CAR AND BACK OUT OF DRIVEWAY AND REACH THE CORNER OF MY BLOCK BEFORE THE CAMERA STARTS UP AND SHOWS ME THE ROAD DISAPPEARING BEHIND ME. A CAMERA DOES NOT REPLACE DRIVER OBLIGATIONS TO MAKE SURE THAT OBSTRUCTIONS ARE NOT BEHIND THEIR CAR, BUT THE CAMERA I…”
NHTSA complaint #10575997, 2012

Seat Belts 4 1 crash 1 injury

“PASSAT WAS TRAVELING SOUTH WHEN ANOTHER VEHICLE RAN A STOP SIGN, TURNED NORTH INTO THE SOUTHBOUND LANE, AND HIT PASSAT ON PASSENGERS SIDE FRONT CAUSING CAR TO SPIN AND COME TO A STOP WHEN IT HIT FRONT CENTER INTO A LIGHT POLE. SEATBELTS DID NOT LOCK, AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY, EVEN THOUGH ALL RECALLS HAD BEEN DONE IN SEPTEMBER. PASSAT WAS COMPLETELY TOTALED. INSURANCE ADJUSTER AND MECHANICS ADVISED US THAT AIRBAGS SHOULD HAVE DEPLOYED. DRIVER OF PASSAT WAS INJURED DUE TO FAILURE OF SAFETY FEATURES.”
NHTSA complaint #11317100, 2020 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“My 2013 VW Passat SE did have a recall on the airbag in the past. I brought it to the VW dealership & had it fixed. Now it suddenly came on again. Maybe they never fixed it properly.”
NHTSA complaint #11683987, 2025

“MY 2013 VW PASSAT 3.6 SEL HAS MAJOR PROBLEMS WITH THE LIGHTING, SEAT BELTS, AND BODY. THE FOG LIGHTS, AND FRONT MARKER LIGHTS KEEP BLOWING OUT ON THE VEHICLE. THE SEAT BELTS LOSE TENSION WHILE DRIVING, AND THERE IS BODY ROLL ON THE VEHICLE DUE TO SUBSTANDARD BODY CONSTRUCTION. MY 2005 VW PASSAT V6 4MOTION HAD A MUCH SAFER, HIGHER QUALITY BODY CONSTRUCTION THAN MY 2013 VW PASSAT 3.6 SEL. IT'S QUITE OBVIOUS THE EXECUTIVES AT VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, AND VOLKSWAGEN AG IN WOLFSBURG, GERMANY AREN'T INTERESTED IN BUILDING SAFE, QUALITY VW PASSAT'S. THEY ARE ONLY INTERESTED IN SACRIFICING QUALITY,…”
NHTSA complaint #11162788, 2018

Visibility 4 1 injury

“WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH ON INTERSTATE IN NICE WEATHER AND LOW TRAFFIC THE SUNROOF OF MY 2013 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT EXPLODED OUTWARDS CREATING A LARGE HOLE 18" - 20". IT WAS A LOUD GUNSHOT TYPE NOISE AND SOME GLASS ENDED UP ON OUR FACES AND ARMS CREATING MINOR CUTS. MOST OF THE GLASS WAS BLOWN OUTSIDE THE CAR AND DAMAGED THE ROOF AND TRUNK. WHEN THE EXPLOSION OCCURRED THE WINDOWS WERE CLOSED AND THE SUNROOF WAS ALSO CLOSED AND THE AIR CONDITIONER WAS ON. WE WERE NOT UNDER ANY OVERPASSES OR NEAR BUILDINGS OR ROAD DEBRIS. DEALERSHIP WILL NOT REPAIR UNDER WARRANTY SAYING IT IS AN OUTSIDE FORCE. VW…”
NHTSA complaint #10643045, 2014 · 1 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DEFROST SYSTEM WAS INOPERABLE. THE CONTACT ALSO MENTIONED THAT THE HEAT WAS NOT WORKING INSIDE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO BRUNSWICK AUTO MART (3031 CENTER RD, BRUNSWICK, OH 44212, (877) 815-7437) WHERE THE HEATER CORE WAS REPLACED THREE TIMES, BUT THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11181674, 2017

“I DRIVE A 2013 VW PASSAT TDI SE. YESTERDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2014, THE SUNROOF EXPLODED UPWARD/OUTWARD FOR NO APPARENT REASON. THE WEATHER WAS NOT EXTREMELY HOT OR COLD. WE WERE ON A "LONELY" STRETCH OF INTERSTATE 40 JUST EAST OF WINSLOW, AZ. THIS OCCURRED LATE IN THE AFTERNOON, NOT DURING THE HOT, MIDDLE OF THE DAY. NO OBJECTS STRUCK OUR CAR/SUNROOF, IT JUST BLEW UPWARD LEAVING A LARGE HOLE IN THE GLASS. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10649618, 2014

Equipment 3

“The infotainment screen and system have malfunctioned. The screen goes black and attempts to reboot repeatedly, never actually starting up. This prevents any access to the infotainment system and and use of the backup camera. Not only is this an inconvenience but a safety hazard as all cars are now required to have a backup camera. Upon further research, this is a common problem among many Volkswagen models and has cost Volkswagen customers thousands per incident/case.”
NHTSA complaint #11477301, 2022

“I PURCHASED THE VW PASSAT IN DECEMBER 2012. I NOTICED WITHIN THE FIRST WEEK THE SLOW RESPONSE OF THE NAVIGATION BUT I THOUGHT MAYBE BECAUSE OF THE COLD WEATHER. I LIVE IN MICHIGAN. WHEN SPRING CAME AROUND I STILL SAW THE SLOW RESPONSE AND IT WAS AGITATING ME. I PUT THE CAR IN REVERSE AND BACK OUT OF MY DRIVE WAY AND THE CAMERA STILL DOESN'T COME ON TILL AFTER. AT THE SAME TIME MY SEAT WAS SQUEAKING. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AND THEY SAID THE SEAT IS FINE AND THEY WILL ASK ABOUT THE NAVI UNIT. AT ONE POINT THE NAVI RESTARTED WHILE I WAS DRIVING. I TOOK IT BACK TO THE DEALER AND SHOWE…”
NHTSA complaint #10512945, 2013

“THE BACKUP CAMERA IS VERY SLOW TO RESPOND WHEN PLACING THE VEHICLE INTO REVERSE (15-25 SECONDS). FREQUENTLY, THE CAMERA WILL NOT ACTIVATE UNTIL THE VEHICLE HAS COMPLETED BACKING UP AND THE VEHICLE IS PLACED INTO DRIVE. VOLKSWAGEN IS AWARE OF THE ISSUE, HAVING IDENTIFIED IT IN A VW TECHNICAL BULLETIN. I CONTACTED VOLKSWAGEN CUSTOMER CARE IN AUBURN, MI, ABOUT RESOLVING THE ISSUE. I RECEIVED A LETTER FROM[XXX], DATED 22 APRIL 2013, WHICH STATED: ". . . YOUR VEHICLE IS OPERATING AS PER ITS DESIGNED INTENT. AS SUCH, WE WILL NOT BE ABLE TO MAKE A REPAIR TO [THE] SYSTEM." INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUA…”
NHTSA complaint #10510360, 2011

Seats 3

“I HAVE 51,000 MILES ON MY CAR AND THE AIR CONDITIONER UNIT WENT OUT. THE CAR IS TOO YOUNG TO HAVE THE A/C REPLACED AT THIS JUNCTURE...FAULTY PARTS. THE A/C UNIT IS LISTED IN A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT, ALONG THE WINDSHIELD WIPER SYSTEM AND THE BEARINGS. THE A/C PROBLEM WAS MENTIONED TO THE VW MCDANIELS SERVICE ADVISOR TWICE WHEN I WAS IN ON A SERVICE CALL, BUT SAID WAS NOT RECORDED ON MY PORTAL OF THE VEHICLE. THE DRIVER SEAT HAS SPLIT AND ON THE SIDE IT IS WARNED. THIS IS NOT GOOD.”
NHTSA complaint #11097085, 2017

“COMPANY IS CLAIMING THAT AN OUTSIDE INFLUENCE OF A SPILL ON PASSENGER SEAT HAS CAUSED THE AIR BAG FAULT THAT DISABLES THE AIRBAG. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10672732, 2014

“I PURCHASED THE VW PASSAT IN DECEMBER 2012. I NOTICED WITHIN THE FIRST WEEK THE SLOW RESPONSE OF THE NAVIGATION BUT I THOUGHT MAYBE BECAUSE OF THE COLD WEATHER. I LIVE IN MICHIGAN. WHEN SPRING CAME AROUND I STILL SAW THE SLOW RESPONSE AND IT WAS AGITATING ME. I PUT THE CAR IN REVERSE AND BACK OUT OF MY DRIVE WAY AND THE CAMERA STILL DOESN'T COME ON TILL AFTER. AT THE SAME TIME MY SEAT WAS SQUEAKING. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AND THEY SAID THE SEAT IS FINE AND THEY WILL ASK ABOUT THE NAVI UNIT. AT ONE POINT THE NAVI RESTARTED WHILE I WAS DRIVING. I TOOK IT BACK TO THE DEALER AND SHOWE…”
NHTSA complaint #10512945, 2013

Equipment Adaptive/Mobility 2

“WAS TURNING IN A PARKING LOT AND HEARD A LOUD CRACKING SOUND. THE AIR BAG LIGHT CAME ON IMMEDIATELY AND NOTICED THE STEERING WHEEL CONTROLS AND THE HORN WERE NOT WORKING. CHECKED ONLINE AND APPARENTLY ISSUES WERE FOUND ON SAME MODEL. IT IS A BROKEN CLOCK SPRING. CONTACTED DEALER, THEY SAID TO BRING IT IN FOR DIAGNOSTICS WHICH WOULD COST $120. I INFORMED THEM OF THE BROKEN PART BUT THEY SAID THEY STILL WOULD HAVE TO DO THE DIAGNOSTIC. THE CLOCK SPRING ITSELF WOULD COST $485 IF THAT WAS BROKEN PLUS LABOR CHARGES. CAR HAS APPROXIMATELY 57250 MILES.”
NHTSA complaint #10715305, 2015

“BACKUP CAMERA IS SLOW TO START. MAY TAKE FROM 5 TO 20 SECONDS TO BECOME OPERATIONAL AFTER START UP. THIS IS HAZARD WITH RESPECT TO RELIANCE ON BACKUP CAMERAS BY DRIVERS TO SEE OBSTRUCTIONS BEHIND THE CAR. FAILURE OF CAMERA TO START UP QUICKLY RESULTS IN REDUCED SAFETY BECAUSE DRIVERS WILL BACK UP WITHOUT CAMERA OPERATIONAL. I CAN START MY CAR AND BACK OUT OF DRIVEWAY AND REACH THE CORNER OF MY BLOCK BEFORE THE CAMERA STARTS UP AND SHOWS ME THE ROAD DISAPPEARING BEHIND ME. A CAMERA DOES NOT REPLACE DRIVER OBLIGATIONS TO MAKE SURE THAT OBSTRUCTIONS ARE NOT BEHIND THEIR CAR, BUT THE CAMERA I…”
NHTSA complaint #10575997, 2012

Latches/Locks/Linkages 2

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DOOR LATCH FAILED TO KEEP THE DOOR CLOSED. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE DOOR LATCH ASSEMBLY NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED (PART#5K1-837-015-E). THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED AND THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 49,368.”
NHTSA complaint #10948711, 2017

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE DOOR HANDLE WAS STUCK AND FAILED TO OPEN THE DOOR. AS A RESULT, THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE DOOR FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, WHO REPLACED THE DOOR HANDLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. IN ADDITION, THE CHILD SAFETY LOCK ON THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE DOOR FAILED AND THE DOOR COULD NOT BE LOCKED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE LOCK WAS REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 33,000.”
NHTSA complaint #10672260, 2014

Forward Collision Avoidance 1

“Stalling? Have to put in DRIVE in order to forward in order to get car to back up? Air bags Clock wheel has more connection to what wrong/Air bags connections is Connected to HORN (which stopped working) DRIVE? all the refuses are working fine. horn not work; Dangerous driving in CALIIFORNIA without a HORN** I just want ALL is for them to REPLACE the PARTS OF MY VW 2013 PASSAT WITHOUT ANY CHARGE Whatsoever; even an UNNECESSARY FEE** I am driving a car with DEFECTIVE AIR BAGS, TIRES HEADLIGHTS, Suspension, SEATBELTS PROBLEMS, TRANSMISSIONS PRBLEMS, steering, electrical, system THAT CAN EXPLOD…”
NHTSA complaint #11572469, 2023