FaultScore

FaultScore report

2013 Volkswagen Passat problems

Owners have filed 1,027 complaints about the 2013 Volkswagen Passat with NHTSA between 2013 and 2026. The largest single group is the airbags. Across this model's run it ranks 3 of 30 worst.

D

FaultScore 74/100

Higher is worse. Measured against the other years of the Volkswagen Passat.

How this is worked out

The numbers

1,027

Complaints

43

Crashes reported

9

Fires reported

25

Injuries reported

5 complaints report a death.

50,000 mi

Median mileage at failure

Half of reported failures happened before this

35%

Failed under 36,000 miles

Inside a typical bumper-to-bumper warranty

What kind of bad

The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.

Complaint volume 100 vs 50 Severity 41 vs 50 Early failure 60 vs 50
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 100
Against the median year of the Volkswagen Passat. 50 means typical for this model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 41
8% of these complaints involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of 9.7%.
Early failure — 60
35% of failures with a mileage on record happened under 36,000 miles, against a national rate of 29%.

How 2013 compares with every other Volkswagen Passat

Click any bar to open that year's report.

Complaints filed with NHTSA, by model year. Bar colour is the FaultScore grade: A B C D F ungraded

What breaks on a 2013 Volkswagen Passat

Every complaint is filed against a part. Follow any row for the complaints about that part alone.

Airbags 382 37.2%

21 crashes, 0 fires · median 56,718 mi

Engine & Cooling 109 10.6%

3 crashes, 4 fires · median 41,176 mi

1 crashes, 2 fires · median 63,000 mi

4 crashes, 3 fires · median 43,000 mi

2 crashes, 0 fires · median 54,000 mi

Lights 60 5.8%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 70,000 mi

Steering 51 5.0%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 61,125 mi

2 crashes, 0 fires · median 25,400 mi

4 crashes, 0 fires · median 40,100 mi

Median failure at 59,000 miles

2 crashes, 0 fires · median 29,500 mi

Suspension 13 1.3%

Median failure at 21,000 miles

Median failure at 37,980 miles

Wheels 8 0.8%

Median failure at 49,319 miles

Brakes 8 0.8%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 52,000 mi

Tires 6 0.6%

Median failure at 18,113 miles

Equipment & Accessories 5 0.5%

Median failure at 200 miles

Driver Assist & Collision Avoidance 5 0.5%

Median failure at 200 miles

Seat Belts 4 0.4%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 77,665 mi

Seats 3 0.3%

Median failure at 25,000 miles

Doors, Latches & Locks 2 0.2%

Median failure at 41,184 miles

Exactly what failed

NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.

Body 27 52.9%
Driver Clockspring/Spiral Cassette 10 19.6%
External/Pedestrian Alert 4 7.8%
Sun/Moon Roof Assembly 3 5.9%
Latch 2 3.9%
Horn 2 3.9%
Door 2 3.9%
Infotainment 1 2.0%

When it fails

Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all complaints include one.

Under 1,000 miles 38 6.5%
1,000 – 9,999 miles 30 5.1%
10,000 – 24,999 miles 81 13.8%
25,000 – 49,999 miles 138 23.4%
50,000 – 74,999 miles 129 21.9%
75,000 – 99,999 miles 90 15.3%
100,000 – 149,999 miles 71 12.1%
150,000+ miles 12 2.0%

When owners complained

A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single owner can see from inside their own car.

Feb 2013 peak 33 Aug 2026

NHTSA investigations into the 2013 Volkswagen Passat

An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.

1 investigation is still open.

EA18003 Opened 18 Apr 2018 Still open AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER CLOCKSPRING/SPIRAL CASSETTE

Air Bag Clockspring Failure

In August 2015, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) launched Safety Recall 15V-483 to address the loss of the protection provided by the front driver air bag in several models due to the failure of the clockspring.Debris entry into the steering wheel hub can result in contamination and ultimately failure of the clockspring in 2010-2014 Model Year (MY) CC, Passat, Eos, Golf, GTI, Tiguan, Jetta and Jetta Sportwagen models.Contamination of the clockspring can cause the ribbon cable to tear resulting in loss of the electrical connection to the front driver air bag and any steering wheel...

RQ17009 Opened 13 Nov 2017 Closed 4 May 2018 AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER CLOCKSPRING/SPIRAL CASSETTE

Air Bag Clockspring Failure

In August 2015, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) launched Safety Recall 15V-483 to address the loss of the protection provided by the front driver air bag in several models due to the failure of the clockspring.Debris entry into the steering wheel hub can result in contamination and ultimately failure of the clockspring in 2010-2014 Model Year (MY) CC, Passat, Eos, Golf, GTI, Tiguan, Jetta and Jetta Sportwagen models.Contamination of the clockspring can cause the ribbon cable to tear resulting in loss of the electrical connection to the front driver air bag and any steering wheel...

PE15010 Opened 24 Mar 2015 Closed 28 Sep 2015 AIR BAGS:FRONTAL

Air Bag Clockspring Failure

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened an investigation based on consumer allegations of steering wheel clock spring/steering column control module (SCCM) failures in model year (MY) 2012 Volkswagen Passat and CC models.The SCCM is a module within the steering column that incorporates a spiral conductor (a ribbon cable) to electrically connect the steering wheel to the vehicle's electrical system while allowing for the turning of the steering wheel.Complainants alleged that that the clock spring failed while driving and without warning.When the SCCM fails electrically, an air bag war...

Recalls on the 2013 Volkswagen Passat

A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous enough to fix for free — however old the car is.

United States — NHTSA

24V834000

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Beetle, Beetle Convertible, 2012-2014 Passat, 2017 Passat Wagon, and 2006-2007 Passat Sedan vehicles. The driver's side frontal air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.

Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

19V862000

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2012-2015 Passat, 2011-2014 Golf A6, and 2011-2013 Audi A3 diesel vehicles, thought to have been previously repaired under one of the Takata air bag recalls. The driver's side air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.

Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

19V389000

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2012-2020 Volkswagen Passat and 2018-2019 Atlas vehicles. The blocking cap disabling the adjustment of the headlight's horizontal aim may not have been installed. As such, these vehicles fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

Risk: Without the blocking cap, the headlight aim can be adjusted out of specification, reducing visibility and increasing the risk of a crash.

18V148000

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2009-2014 Volkswagen CC, 2010-2014 Golf, 2010-2014 Eos, 2007-2010 Passat Sedan and Wagon, and 2012-2014 Passat vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to explode.

Risk: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could explode with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.

17V309000

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:DIESEL

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2012-2014 Passat vehicles, equipped with diesel engines and Direct-Shift Transmissions (DSG). The vehicle's underbody heat shield may not be long enough to protect the right half-shaft grease boot from heat, potentially resulting in a grease leak.

Risk: If the leaking grease contacts a heated surface, such as the exhaust system and/or the diesel particulate filter (DPF), it could increase the risk of fire.

16V171000

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2012-2014 Passat vehicles equipped with TDI engines. Due to improperly assembled wire seals in a connector for an underbody sensor, water may enter and corrode the electrical connectors of the sensor, causing an electrical short.

Risk: An electrical short can cause the electrical connectors of the sensor to overheat, increasing the risk of a fire.

16V078000

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2010-2014 Golf, 2007-2010 Passat sedans and wagon, 2012-2014 Passat sedan and Eos, 2009-2014 CC, 2009-2012 Audi Q5, 2010-2012 S5 Cabriolet and 2010-2012 Audi A5 Cabriolet vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.

Risk: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants potentially resulting in serious injury or death.

15V483000

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2010-2014 Volkswagen CC, and Passat, 2010-2013 Eos, 2011-2014 Golf, GTI, Jetta, and Tiguan, and 2012-2014 Jetta Sportwagen vehicles. In the affected vehicles, debris may contaminate the air bag clock spring, a spiral wound, flat cable that keeps the air bag powered while the steering wheel is being turned. This contamination may tear the cable and result in a loss of electrical connection to the driver's frontal air bag.

Risk: A loss of electrical connection to the driver's frontal air bag will prevent the air bag from deploying in the event of a vehicle crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Canada — Transport Canada

Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not always mirror the American ones.

Recall 2024649 18,995 units in Canada

Airbag

Issue: On certain vehicles, long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, may eventually degrade the propellant contained in the driver-front airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. If the airbag inflator ruptures, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants or cause damage to the airbag assembly, preventing its proper function. Safety Risk: If the vehicle is involved in a crash requiring an airbag deployment, the airbag inflator could rupture and create a risk of injury. Corrective Action: Volkswagen will notify owners by mail and advise you to take your vehicle to a dealership to replace the driver-front airbag. Note: The Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. This recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk. It is expected that all airbag inflators will be replaced before their function would be affected.

Recall 2020353 132,432 units in Canada

Label

Issue: On certain vehicles, the warning label for the engine block heater cable is written in English only. As a result, a French user may not receive important safety information about how to use the engine block heater. A label that is not provided in both official languages could create confusion. Safety Risk: User confusion could increase the risk of injury when trying to use the block heater. Corrective Actions: The company will mail each owner a new label for the block heater cable. If you would like help installing the label, you can contact a dealer for assistance.

Recall 2019242 51,987 units in Canada

Lights And Instruments

Issue: Certain vehicles were built with headlights that may allow horizontal adjustment. This is not allowed under Canadian regulations. Safety Risk: Headlights that are not properly adjusted could cause reduced visibility or glare for oncoming drivers, and could increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: The company will notify owners by mail and instruct them to take their vehicle to a dealer to inspect the headlights. A blocking cap will be installed on the horizontal adjusters as necessary.

Recall 2018266 12 units in Canada

Other

On certain early production vehicles, modifications may have been made prior to sale that could make the vehicles non-compliant with regulatory requirements. Correction: Volkswagen will repurchase the affected vehicles and remove them from the market.

Recall 2018111 37,197 units in Canada

Airbag

On certain vehicles, long-term exposure to high absolute humidity and temperature, combined with high temperature cycling, could eventually degrade the propellant contained in the driver frontal airbag. This could cause the airbag to deploy with more force than normal. As a result, if the vehicle were involved in a collision that warrants airbag deployment, fragments could be propelled toward vehicle occupants, and the airbag assembly could be damaged, preventing proper function. These issues could increase the risk of injury. Correction: Dealers will replace the driver frontal airbag inflator. Note: Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly. The recall is being conducted as a precaution to address future risk, and is expected to replace airbag inflators before their function would be affected. Additional Note: This recall supersedes the Volkswagen brand vehicles subject to recall 2016-064 (Volkswagen Recall 69M9). Volkswagen vehicles completed under the previous 2016-064 recall require repair under this recall, as the previous recall remedy was an interim repair. Interim repair parts must be replaced with final repair parts.

Recall 2017256 10,106 units in Canada

Powertrain

On certain vehicles, an underbody heat shield may not be long enough to protect the right drive half-shaft grease boot from heat. Over time, this could lead to a grease leak from the boot. If leaking grease comes into contact with heated surfaces of the exhaust system and/or diesel particulate filter (DPF), it could lead to a fire potentially causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will install a revised heat shield and certain vehicles will have the upper boost hose replaced.

Recall 2016132 11,693 units in Canada

Electrical

Certain vehicles may have been equipped with an underbody sensor containing an improperly assembled seal which could allow water to penetrate and corrode the electrical terminals. This could lead to an electrical short causing the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) to illuminate in the vehicle and cause the circuit to overheat, increasing the risk of fire causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will inspect and if necessary replace the affected connector.

Recall 2016064 64,660 units in Canada

Airbag

On certain vehicles, the driver frontal airbag inflator could produce excessive internal pressure during airbag deployment. Increased pressure may cause the inflator to rupture, which could allow fragments to be propelled toward vehicle occupants, increasing the risk of injury. This could also damage the airbag module, which could prevent proper deployment. Failure of the airbag to fully deploy during a crash (where deployment is warranted) could increase the risk of personal injury to the seat occupant. Correction: Dealers will replace the front driver airbag inflator. Note: This campaign only affects the Audi A5 and Audi S5 Cabriolet models.

Recalls cover specific build ranges, so check your own vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or, in Canada, Transport Canada.

Complaints that involved harm

Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.

Antioch, CA Crash

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

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 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Plattsmouth, NE Crash 1 injured

AIR BAGS

My vehicle was involved in a crash where Vehicle 1 (V1) ran a red light and my vehicle struck V1 along the rear passenger side door, causing my vehicle to spin 180 degrees. The front end of my vehicle was torn off and no airbags deployed, causing injury to the driver of my vehicle. The driver sustained a concussion and whip lash. My vehicle was traveling under 10mph and V1 was approximately 40-50mph. There were no recall repairs listed for my vehicle, but there was a recall in the past for the airbags. I do believe the airbag recall was repaired by a dealership. My vehicle had no warning/indicator lights on the instrument panel showing any problems with the vehicle or the airbags.

NHTSA complaint #11485368 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Hoopa, CA Crash

AIR BAGS

i hit a dog in the middle of the road and had my insurance from Geico repair the item through our insurance with them. I had the repairs done but the air bag never went off but the light came on. The repair shop did everything they could to try and fix the problem when the replaced my bumper and front panel but could not get the airbag light to turn off the dash. They called the dealer and no code came up. they never found a way to fix it and the light still remains on to this day.

NHTSA complaint #11477041 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 109,000 miles Brussels, IL Crash 1 injured

AIR BAGS

MY DAUGHTER WAS IN AN ACCIDENT ON AUG 26 OF 2020. SHE WAS MAKING A LEFT HAND TURN WHEN ONCOMING TRAFFIC STRUCK HER IN PASSENGER FRONT BUMPER AND FENDER. HER CAR WAS TOTALED BECUASE OF FRAME DAMAGE. SHE ESTIMATES THE OTHER CAR WAS TRAVELING 25-30 MPH AT TIME OF IMPACT. SHE WAS IN THE PROCESS OF BRAKING AT IMPACT. NO AIRBAGS DEPLOYED ON THE VW AS YOU CAN SEE IN THE PICTURES. ALL AIRBAGS DEPLOYED ON OTHER CAR (2013 HONDA CRV). MY CONCERN IS THE AIRBAG RECALL WAS PERFORMED PRIOR TO PURCHASING THE CAR, YET FAILED TO DEPLOY. I'VE NOTIFIED VW CUSTOMER CARE WITH LOCATION OF VEHICLE, YET THEY WONT INSPECT IT TIL I PROVIDE POLICE REPORT, WHICH IS VERY INCONVENIENT TO OBTAIN, CITING THEY CAN NOT OBTAIN IT. I TOLD THEM WHERE VEHICLE IS LOCATED, OR WAS. I FEAR IT MAY BE SOLD AND CANNIBALIZED BEFORE DETERMINING WHY THEY DID NOT DEPLOY.

NHTSA complaint #11360461 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 136,005 miles Spring, TX Fire

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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 AREA AS HAS BEEN NOTED BY RECALLS 17V309000 AND 16V171000, BOTH OF THESE RECALLS WERE COMPLIED WITH PRIOR TO THIS EVENT. DOCUMENTATION OF THIS IS MAINTAINED WITH THE OWNER. ALL SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS HAVE BEEN COMPLETED AT VOLKSWAGEN DEALERSHIPS SINCE PURCHASE, ALL RECORDS MAINTAINED.

NHTSA complaint #11350674 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 136,005 miles Spring, TX Fire

ENGINE

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 AREA AS HAS BEEN NOTED BY RECALLS 17V309000 AND 16V171000, BOTH OF THESE RECALLS WERE COMPLIED WITH PRIOR TO THIS EVENT. DOCUMENTATION OF THIS IS MAINTAINED WITH THE OWNER. ALL SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS HAVE BEEN COMPLETED AT VOLKSWAGEN DEALERSHIPS SINCE PURCHASE, ALL RECORDS MAINTAINED.

NHTSA complaint #11350674 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

The most recent complaints

In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.

Symsonia, KY

AIR BAGS

The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Passat. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V834000 (Air Bags). The contact called the three closest dealers but no assistance with transporting the vehicle or offering an alternative option for repair was provided. The manufacturer was also notified of the failure and refused to help. While requesting to speak with a manager, the contact was informed that a supervisor would provide the same response. The contact feared for her safety while driving the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired.

NHTSA complaint #11755868 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Las Vegas, NV

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

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 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Little River, SC

AIR BAGS

My airbag light is on, steering wheel controls don’t work, and my horn doesn’t work. Safety is put at risk because the airbag won’t deploy if needed, won’t be able to think in case someone can’t see me.

NHTSA complaint #11693057 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Santa Monica, CA

AIR BAGS

The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Passat. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V834000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted several times. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.

NHTSA complaint #11692331 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Norwalk, CT

AIR BAGS

My vehicle has an open Takata airbag recall with recall number 69E6. I have been placed on a waiting list at nearby dealerships for over 6 months. Each time I contact the dealerships, I am told to wait and call back in another month. No proactive communication has been provided and no remedy has been scheduled despite repeated follow-ups. The vehicle continues to display an airbag error light indicating an active safety hazard. The manufacturer has not provided a repair appointment, loaner vehicle, or any timeline for when the safety recall remedy will be available. This extended delay poses a serious risk given the known dangers of defective Takata airbags.

NHTSA complaint #11691269 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 100,000 miles Wetumpka, AL

ENGINE

The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated while at a red light ,the vehicle intermittently stalled. No warning lights were illuminated. The failure had occurred on several occasions. The vehicle was taken to a dealer to be diagnosed; however, the cause of the failure was undetermined. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

NHTSA complaint #11690973 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 134,000 miles Tampa, FL

POWER TRAIN

The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated that the vehicle was purchased in 2024 from a Used Car Dealer. The contact stated that the check engine warning light illuminated after the vehicle was driven off the dealer lot. The contact drove to the destination and restarted the vehicle and the message "Distressed Vehicle Start" was illuminated. The contact drove the vehicle back to the dealer and the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the contact was advised that there was an issue with the engine. The dealer advised the contact that parts had been ordered and she would be contacted to bring the vehicle in for the repair. The contact was not contacted, and calls were not returned. The contact contacted the warranty company for assistance with the repair. The contact stated that the timing belt was replaced, the vehicle was repaired; however, the vehicle had developed other failures. The contact stated that the vehicle lost motive power and was shaking abnormally while shifting gear. The contact stated that the failure recurred with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The warranty company was contacted, and the contact was advised to take the vehicle to an authorized dealer for assistance. The vehicle was towed to a dealer; however, a full diagnostic test was not completed, and the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 134,000.

NHTSA complaint #11689520 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 134,000 miles Tampa, FL

ENGINE

The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated that the vehicle was purchased in 2024 from a Used Car Dealer. The contact stated that the check engine warning light illuminated after the vehicle was driven off the dealer lot. The contact drove to the destination and restarted the vehicle and the message "Distressed Vehicle Start" was illuminated. The contact drove the vehicle back to the dealer and the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the contact was advised that there was an issue with the engine. The dealer advised the contact that parts had been ordered and she would be contacted to bring the vehicle in for the repair. The contact was not contacted, and calls were not returned. The contact contacted the warranty company for assistance with the repair. The contact stated that the timing belt was replaced, the vehicle was repaired; however, the vehicle had developed other failures. The contact stated that the vehicle lost motive power and was shaking abnormally while shifting gear. The contact stated that the failure recurred with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The warranty company was contacted, and the contact was advised to take the vehicle to an authorized dealer for assistance. The vehicle was towed to a dealer; however, a full diagnostic test was not completed, and the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 134,000.

NHTSA complaint #11689520 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Torrington, CT

AIR BAGS

The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Passat. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V834000(Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.

NHTSA complaint #11688321 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Chicago, IL

AIR BAGS

The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Passat. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V834000 (AIR BAGS). The contact stated that the dealer was contacted; however, the contact was informed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted about parts availability. The contact had not experienced a failure.

NHTSA complaint #11688199 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Carlstadt, NJ

AIR BAGS

I've been waiting almost a year for an airbag recall replacement and still can't get an appointment anywhere because it's out of stock. I'm driving around with a air bag that can kill me. How long do I need to wait until something happens.

NHTSA complaint #11688264 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Mequon, WI

AIR BAGS

The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Passat. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V834000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.

NHTSA complaint #11687889 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 82,770 miles Mesquite, NV

AIR BAGS

The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light was unexpectedly illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V834000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 82,770.

NHTSA complaint #11687971 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Tucson, AZ

AIR BAGS

The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Passat. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V834000 (AIR BAGS); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.

NHTSA complaint #11686868 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Las Vegas, NV

AIR BAGS

Drivers airbag is not operational because of defective clock spring

NHTSA complaint #11684314 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Houston, TX

SEAT BELTS

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 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Houston, TX

AIR BAGS

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 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Paoli, PA

AIR BAGS

The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Passat. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V834000 (AIR BAGS); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.

NHTSA complaint #11681549 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Abilene, TX

AIR BAGS

Recall still not complete and no date from Volkswagen on when the repairs will be done. I have been working with VW for 3 weeks to arrange getting a loaner car (no date of when this will be available either).

NHTSA complaint #11681551 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Rochester, NY

AIR BAGS

The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Passat. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V834000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact called the manufacturer but received no response. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

NHTSA complaint #11676230 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Clayton, MO

AIR BAGS

The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Passat. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V834000 (AIR BAGS); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer informed the contact that to order the part for the recall repair, the contact needed to get a loaner vehicle; however, if the contact refused, he would wait longer for the recall part to be ordered. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

NHTSA complaint #11675383 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Garland, TX

AIR BAGS

2013 Volkswagen Passat [XXX] I received a recall notice for the Takata driver airbag inflator in 2016, and as of July 2025, I am still being told by Volkswagen that the repair is “Not Yet Available” and will not be until September 2025. This means I will have waited over 9 years for a critical safety repair. I live in Texas, a region identified by NHTSA as high-risk for airbag explosion due to heat and humidity. I’m requesting NHTSA’s assistance in holding Volkswagen accountable for this delay and in compelling the manufacturer to provide a safe alternative or transportation accommodation immediately. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA complaint #11674064 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Hernando, FL

POWER TRAIN

Timing chain issues, motor oil circulation problems, that Volkswagen has recalls out for 2.0 cc turbo 2013.

NHTSA complaint #11673096 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Hernando, FL

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Timing chain issues, motor oil circulation problems, that Volkswagen has recalls out for 2.0 cc turbo 2013.

NHTSA complaint #11673096 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Hernando, FL

ENGINE

Timing chain issues, motor oil circulation problems, that Volkswagen has recalls out for 2.0 cc turbo 2013.

NHTSA complaint #11673096 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.