2003 Volkswagen Passat

High concern

Owners filed 634 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the engine. It has been recalled 7 times.

Avoid One of the Volkswagen Passat years to avoid: 3.8× the complaints of a typical Passat year. Which Volkswagen Passat years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
59,000 milesMedian miles at failure

513 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 75,000–90,000 miles.

Most common 2003 Volkswagen Passat problems

135 of the 634 complaints (21%) are about the engine.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Seats › Front Assembly › Seat Heater/Cooler78
04425
Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump · fuel system77
000
Engine and Engine Cooling · engine50
091
Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine · engine38
020
Electrical System34
083
Fuel System, Gasoline · fuel system31
010
Electrical System › Ignition21
010
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system20
000
Engine19
061
Exterior Lighting › Brake Lights › Switch · headlights16
000

2003 Volkswagen Passat engine problems

21% of all complaints

135 of the 634 complaints are about the engine. This is what owners describe:

  • sets off warning lights on the dash29% · 39
  • burns oil or loses oil pressure21% · 29
  • turns on the check engine light18% · 24
  • smokes or smells of burning13% · 17
  • stalls10% · 14
  • overheats9% · 12

Share of the 135 engine complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
78,000 mi
median of 114 reports
Peak year of filing
2007
24 engine complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
1 · 28 · 2
in these complaints
Recalls on the engine
“Tl* the contact owns a 2003 volkswagen passat. The contact stated while the vehicle was at a stand still, the vehicle failed to start. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the timing chain actuator/solenoid needed to be replaced.”
Owner complaint, filed Aug 31, 2020 at 180,000 miles
“Tl* the contact owns a 2003 volkswagen passat. The contact stated that the vehicle would not hold fuel and the tank had to constantly be refilled. Also, the check engine warning indicator illuminated. The vehicle was taken to ellis motorcars inc (2235 e south blvd, montgomery, al 36116, (334) 280-1021) where it was diagnosed that the coolant system and the timing chain needed to be repaired.”
Owner complaint, filed Feb 4, 2019 at 78,000 miles

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2002: 3 complaints, 0 about the engine'022003: 39 complaints, 5 about the engine2004: 47 complaints, 7 about the engine'042005: 86 complaints, 11 about the engine2006: 98 complaints, 15 about the engine'062007: 106 complaints, 24 about the engine2008: 61 complaints, 13 about the engine'082009: 37 complaints, 11 about the engine2010: 36 complaints, 17 about the engine'102011: 27 complaints, 8 about the engine2012: 18 complaints, 4 about the engine'122013: 7 complaints, 1 about the engine2014: 13 complaints, 2 about the engine'142015: 24 complaints, 11 about the engine2016: 12 complaints, 0 about the engine'162017: 3 complaints, 1 about the engine2018: 3 complaints, 1 about the engine'182019: 4 complaints, 1 about the engine2020: 3 complaints, 1 about the engine'202021: 3 complaints, 1 about the engine2022: 1 complaints, 0 about the engine'222023: 1 complaints, 1 about the engine2024: 0 complaints, 0 about the engine'242025: 2 complaints, 0 about the engineRecall 02V026000 (fuel system)Recall 06V017000 (fuel system)Recall 07V063000 (headlights)Recall 07V375000 (fuel system)Recall 08V156000 (fuel system)Recall 14E007000 (engine)Recall 18V406000 (airbags)NHTSA investigation EA11002NHTSA investigation PE10027NHTSA investigation PE08008NHTSA investigation DP05004
All complaintsAbout the engineRecall (red: the engine)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2003 Passat peaked in 2007, with 106 filed that year. Owners had filed 116 complaints about the engine before the first recall that covers it, 14E007000 in March 2014; 19 more have come in since. In 2025 owners filed 2 so far.

7 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Side › Inflator Module18V406000
Filed Jun 13, 20182,564 vehiclesVolkswagen Group of America, Inc.

Defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2003 Volkswagen Passat sedan, Jetta, Jetta wagon, Golf, EuroVan, EuroVan Camper Van and EuroVan Chassis 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 driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy. Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began May 2, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69X3.

Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine14E007000
Filed Mar 7, 201450 vehiclesThe Gates Corporation

Defect. The Gates Corporation (Gates) is recalling certain aftermarket Tru-Flow Water Pumps, part number TFW 41127, sold at certain NAPA Auto Parts and/or installed by automotive service technicians after November 1, 2013 (and manufactured August 2013 through October 2013) that have a black-colored pulley/sprocket or do not have 'US9377' stamped on the water pump housing. These service replacement parts were sold for use in model year 1999-2005 Audi A4, 2000-2006 Audi TT, 1998-2005 Volkswagen Beetle, 1999-2006 Golf, 1999-2008 and 2011-2013 Volkswagen Jetta, and 2000-2005 Volkswagen Passat. In the affected water pumps, the pulley or sprocket that turns the timing belt may develop microfractures causing the timing belt to fail.

Risk. A failure of the timing belt may cause the engine to shut down, potentially increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Remedy. Gates will notify owners, and dealers will replace the water pump, free of charge. The recall began during May 2014. Owners may contact The Gates Corporation at 1-303-744-1911.

Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery08V156000
Filed Apr 7, 2008412,000 vehiclesVolkswagen of America, Inc

Defect. VOLKSWAGEN IS RECALLING 412,000 MY 1999-2005 PASSAT (5TH GENERATION) VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS AND PRODUCED AFTER JUNE 14, 1999. THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE AN UNDERBODY HEAT SHIELD THAT CAN BECOME DAMAGED. IN ADDITION, AFFECTED VEHICLES WITH AUTOMATIC OR MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS MAY HAVE A FUEL LINE (1.8T ENGINES ONLY) OR FUEL TANK VENTILATION VALVE (4MOTION/ALL WHEEL DRIVE ONLY) THAT CAN LEAK DUE TO FRACTURE.

Risk. A HEAT SHIELD THAT MAY CONTACT THE EXHAUST SYSTEM CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE. IN ADDITION, A FUEL LEAK FROM A FUEL LINE OR FUEL TANK VENTILATION VALVE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, CAN LEAD TO A VEHICLE FIRE.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSTALL ADDITIONAL UNDERBODY HEAT SHIELDS ON VEHICLES WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS TO COVER THE POSSIBLY DAMAGED AREAS AND FLASH ALL 1.8T ENGINES WITH A PRECAUTIONARY SOFTWARE UPDATE. DEALERS WILL ALSO INSPECT AND ADJUST THE FUEL LINE ROUTING ON 1.8T VEHICLES AND THE FUEL TANK VENTILATION VALVE ON 4MOTION/ALL WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLES, AND REPLACE COMPONENTS IF NECESSARY FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 13, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VOLKSWAGEN AT 1-800-822-8987.

Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump07V375000
Filed Aug 28, 200734,358 vehiclesVolkswagen of America, Inc

Defect. ON CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 1.8L TURBO, 2.8L V6, OR 3.0L ENGINES, A CHANGE IN THE ELECTRICAL MOTOR COMPONENTS IN THE FUEL PUMP CAN LEAD TO AN INOPERATIVE FUEL PUMP AND, ULTIMATELY, STOPPAGE OF FUEL SUPPLY TO THE ENGINE CAUSING IT TO STALL.

Risk. IF FUEL FLOW TO THE ENGINE IS INTERRUPTED, THE VEHICLE COULD STALL WITHOUT WARNING AND THUS PRESENT A POTENTIAL RISK OF CRASH.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSTALL NEW FUEL PUMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 28, 20007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VW AT 1-800-222-8987 OR AUDI AT 1-800-822-2834. THIS RECALL IS A SUPPLEMENT TO A PREVIOUS CAMPAIGN (PLEASE SEE 06V017).

Exterior Lighting › Brake Lights › Switch07V063000
Filed Feb 20, 20071,002,000 vehiclesVolkswagen of America, Inc

Defect. ON CERTAIN PASSENGER, WAGON, AND CONVERTIBLE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH OR WITHOUT CRUISE CONTROL, A BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH MAY MALFUNCTION IF IT WAS INSTALLED INCORRECTLY.

Risk. THE BRAKE LIGHTS COULD BECOME INOPERATIVE, OR REMAIN ON. FAILURE TO PROVIDE THE PROPER SIGNAL WHEN BRAKING COULD LEAD TO A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSTALL THE NEWLY DESIGNED BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 27, 2007, AND WILL BE CONDUCTED IN SEVERAL STAGGERED MAILINGS THROUGH SEPTEMBER 21, 2007. VEHICLES WITHIN THE MAKE, MODEL, AND MODEL YEAR OF THIS POPULATION MAY BE INVOLVED IN EITHER THIS RECALL OR 06V-183, BUT NOT BOTH. THE REMEDY IS THE SAME FOR EACH RECALL. VOLKSWAGEN DEALERS WILL APPLY THE REMEDY BASED ON THE VIN NUMBER OF THE VEHICLE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VW AT 1-800-822-8987.

Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump06V017000
Filed Jan 23, 200674,000 vehiclesVolkswagen of America, Inc

Defect. ON CERTAIN VEHICLES PRODUCED FROM SEPTEMBER 2002 - MARCH 2003, EQUIPPED WITH 1.8L TURBO, 2.8L V6, OR 3.0L ENGINES, A CHANGE IN THE ELECTRICAL MOTOR COMPONENTS IN THE FUEL PUMP CAN LEAD TO AN INOPERATIVE FUEL PUMP AND, ULTIMATELY, STOPPAGE OF FUEL SUPPLY TO THE ENGINE CAUSING IT TO STALL.

Risk. IF FUEL FLOW TO THE ENGINE IS INTERRUPTED, THE VEHICLE COULD STALL WITHOUT WARNING AND THUS PRESENT A POTENTIAL RISK OF CRASH.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSTALL NEW FUEL PUMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 10, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VW AT 1-800-222-8987 OR AUDI AT 1-800-822-2834.

Fuel System, Gasoline › Storage › Tank Assembly › Filler Pipe and Cap02V026000
Filed Jan 25, 2002487,284 vehiclesVolkswagen of America,inc

Defect. ON SOME PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE FUEL TANK FILLER NECK CAN SUFFER ABRASION DAMAGE IF THE REAR TIRE GOES FLAT AND THE VEHICLE IS DRIVEN UNTIL THE TIRE DISINTEGRATES.

Risk. FUEL LEAKAGE CAN OCCUR INCREASING THE RISK OF A FIRE.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL FIT PASSAT VEHICLES WITH A NEW WHEEL HOUSE LINER THAT WILL BETTER PROTECT THE CAR'S FILLER NECK. JETTA VEHICLES WILL BE FITTED WITH A DIFFERENT METAL SHIELD DESIGNED TO ENHANCE ABRASION PROTECTION IN THE EVENT OF TIRE DISINTEGRATION. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JUNE 13, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT VOLKSWAGEN AT 1-800-822-8987.

All 7 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 6 name the 2003 Passat.

Engine Compartment FireEngineering analysis EA11002Closed
Opened Jan 26, 2011Closed Feb 17, 2012electrical system

In July 2010, the Agency opened PE10-027 to investigate allegations of coil on plug (COP) ignition coil fires in MY2002-2003 VW Passat vehicles.The investigation was upgraded in January 2011 to include all MY2001-2007 4-cylinder VW Passat, gasoline, turbo-charged vehicles.Based on the analysis of VW's response, and including ODI's consumer complaints, ODI has since identified 135 unique engine fire reports attributable to the COP coils.After further review of the details as contained in each report, ODI determined that 43 of the 135 fire reports were actual fire/flame incidents, 83 fire …

Engine Compartment FirePreliminary evaluation PE10027Closed
Opened Jul 26, 2010Closed Feb 7, 2011electrical system

ODI has received 11 complaints alleging that a fire started in the engine compartment of the vehicle that may be related to ignition coil failure, and 9 complaints of ignition coil failure that did not result in a fire.Reports state that the vehicle hesitated or lost power, and the check engine or dashboard lights illuminated.The vehicles were repaired by replacing the faulty ignition coil(s). Some of the complaints indicated that the ignition coils were replaced more than once.The scope of PE10-027 focused on Model Years (MY)2002-2003 Passat vehicles.Volkswagen provided data regarding their …

FUEL TANK LEAKPreliminary evaluation PE08008Closed
Opened Jan 31, 2008Closed May 30, 2008Led to recall 08V156000fuel system

Volkswagen (vw) is recalling certain vw passat 4motion and audi a6 quattro and allroad quattro all-wheel drive passenger cars.vw vehicles subject to recall were manufactured from november 22, 2000 through may 31, 2005 and audi vehicles subject to recall were manufactured from june 2, 2001 to june 1, 2005.the NHTSA recall number for the vw vehicles is 08v-156 (vw also is correcting defects related to heat shield and fuel line hazards for these vehicles and for 1999-2000 passats in this recall action.)the NHTSA recall number for the audi vehicles is 08v-157.since 2006, odi has received 17 …

PASSENGER ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRESEngineering analysis EA07014Closed
Opened Sep 28, 2007Closed Jul 7, 2008Led to recall 08V156000electrical system

The manufacturer notified NHTSA on 04-apr-08 that a safety recall action would be initiated to remedy the issue.in june 2008, the manufacturer issued a technical service bulletin (code 26e5/r5) regarding the specific procedures to be employed in this campaign.vehicle owner notification letters were sent beginning approximately june 13, 2008.the campaign was assigned NHTSA no. 08v-156.this recall affects all my 1999-2005, 5th generation gasoline-powered passat sedans and station wagons.approximately 412,000 vehicles are affected.corrective action will consist of installing additional exhaust …

PASSENGER/ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRESPreliminary evaluation PE07024Closed
Opened May 10, 2007Closed Sep 28, 2007electrical system

Many of the fire reports allege that the vehicle fire was attributed to ignition coil failure.vw provided additional data regarding its analysis of vehicle fires and a detailed description of the three different engines and ignition systems for the subject vehicles.odifinds the need to further investigate this issue.to facilitate acquisition and analysis of additional information, this investigationhas been upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea07-014).

ENGINE STALLINGDefect petition DP05004Closed
Opened Aug 11, 2005Closed Dec 8, 2005electrical system

By letter received on june 24, 2005, mr. Ronald m. Strickland of raleigh, nc, submitted a petition requesting that the agency investigate the performance of the ignition coil plugs on model year (my) 2000-2003 volkswagen jetta, golf and passat sedans.the petitioner alleges that he had experienced multiple stalling events as a result of one or more ignition coil plugs malfunctioning on his 2002 vw jetta sedan.as a result of the engine stalling, the petitioner experienced a loss of power steering and increased braking efforts when he pulled the vehicle over to the side of the road to control …

Technical service bulletins

213 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2003 Passat. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

equipment 55engine 41electrical system 35visibility 17body and frame 12seats 9headlights 8wheels 8
0421Warranty extensionAug 4, 2004engine

OIL SLUDGE - WARRANTY EXTENSION FOR 1998-2004 MODEL YEAR VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT WITH 1.8L TURBO ENGINE US AND CANADIAN DEALERS. SERVICE CIRCULAR. *TT

0421Warranty extensionAug 1, 2004engine

WARRANTY EXTENSION COVERING CERTAIN OIL SLUDGE RELATED REPAIRS. *TT

V171901201285565Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsAug 21, 2023engine

Update to Volkswagen engine oil standards

V171901201285562Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMay 30, 2023engine

Volkswagen Engine oil quality standards, update to attachments.

V171901201285560Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsApr 24, 2023engine

Engine oil quality standards, update to attachments.

V171901-2012855Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMar 12, 2019engine

Engine Oils Which Meet Volkswagen Oil Quality Standards

Gasoline EngineService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsFeb 27, 2019engine

Gasoline Engine Misfire Diagnosis document

TT 10 12 01Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSep 28, 2018engine

Engine replacement tip

Showing the newest 6 of 41 bulletins about the engine, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Nov 26, 2025133,000 milesVA

The contact owns a 2003 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the fuel pump needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that the parts needed for the repair could not be found. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 07V375000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the VIN was included but the vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 133,000.

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Mar 19, 2025CA

The contact owns a 2003 Volkswagen Passat. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 06V017000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Dec 21, 202372,000 milesRI

The contact owns a 2003 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, coolant leaked onto the front passenger’s side floorboard. The contact stated that the coolant leak was underneath the glove compartment area. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, and the contact was advised to have the vehicle taken to the Volkswagen dealer. The contact visited the dealer and discussed the reoccurring failure and was informed that the heater coil was designed incorrectly, and the failure was due to the design of the heater coil. The contact was informed that the heater coil needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 72,000.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Dec 28, 2022PA

Vehicle has major fuel pump issue, currently at 132,000 and noticing loss of power, car shaking, and occasional stall. A code reader is unable able to detect the issue which is a major concern. I have contacted the volkswagen Manufacturer and I consistently keep getting ignored after bringing up the recall that was put out for the fuel pump. While driving on the highway my rear and front suspension failed and dropped suddenly while moving slowly during traffic. I whave only been able to repair the front shocks and struts so far, but the rear are needed as well. I would like to state that all the parts are original manufacturer parts.

EngineFire
Filed Sep 20, 2021150,000 milesCO

The contact owns a 2003 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 mph the vehicle's speed suddenly begin to reduce and smoke was present coming from the engine compartment. After stopping and exiting the vehicle became engulfed in flames. The fire department was called to the scene and extinguished the flames and the vehicle was towed away. During the incident, the vehicle was destroyed. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the incident but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 150,000.

Electrical System
Filed May 13, 2021180,000 milesCA

I PURCHASED A USED 2003 VW PASSAT FROM A PRIVATE DEALER DROVE THE CAR FIVE MONTHS AND THE TIMING BELT CAME OFF WHILE I WAS DRIVING. I ALMOST GOT INTO AN ACCIDENT BUT AVOIDED IT. THIS PARTICULAR VEHICLE AND ONES LIKE IT WAS RECALLED IN 3/7/2014 FOR ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING ENGINE PROBLEMS THAT CAUSES THE TIMING BELT TO COME OFF WHILE DRIVING. RECALL: 14E007000 BECAUSE OF THE TIMING BELT FAILURE. I CONTACTED A VW DEALERSHIP AND THEY SAID THE RECALL DIDN'T APPLY TO MY CAR. I FIND THAT INSULTING CONSIDER ING WHAT I JUST EXPERIENCED.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Apr 7, 2021TX

RECALL 26E5 VOLKSWAGEN NOT COMPLETED

SeatsFire1 injured
Filed Nov 30, 2020121,365 milesMO

MY SON WAS DRIVING (IN MOTION) ON HWY 17 IN MILLER COUNTY MO WITH SEAT HEATER ON SATURDAY NOV. 28, 2020. SEAT CAUGHT ON FIRE. I HAD NOTICED WHEN I HAD SEAT HEATER ON PREVIOUSLY IT BECAME SO HOT AS TO BURN LEGS. THIS IS A SERIOUS PROBLEM. IT COULD HAVE BURNED MY CAR COMPLETELY. VERY DANGEROUS.

Engine
Filed Aug 31, 2020180,000 milesTX

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS AT A STAND STILL, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE TIMING CHAIN ACTUATOR/SOLENOID NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT STATED A LOCAL DEALER WAS CONTACTED ABOUT OPEN RECALLS AND STATED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL ON VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED AS OF YET. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 180,000.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jan 7, 2020140,000 milesVA

FUEL TANK LEAKING WHEN FULL ON DRIVERS SIDE DIRECTLY UNDER REAR PASSENGER SEAT. WHICH HAPPENS TO BE WHERE MY CHILDREN SIT. IT LEAKS UNTIL IT'S A LITTLE OVER HALF FULL THEN STOPS.

Air Bags
Filed Nov 19, 201957,665 milesCA

THIS CAR ONLY HAS 65000 ORIGINAL ONE OWNER MILES AND HAS EXPERIENCED ALL & MORE OF THE CURRENT RECALLS WITH SAME MODEL YR, VW LOCAL DEALERSHIPS (2) REFUSE TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE PROBLEMS (ONE EVEN TRIED TO DOUBLE CHARGE ME FOR BOSCH ABS PART LAST YEAR BEFORE THE RECALL TO FIX) AND NUMEROUS EMAILS TO VW HAVE GONE UNANSWERED. MOST RECENT ISSUES IN LAST 1.5YRS HAVE BEEN FUEL PUMP WENT OUT AND I PAID TO REPLACE (DEALER SCAMMED US BY THROWING OUT DEAD BRAND NEW AAA STAMPED AND WARRANTED BATTERY, THEY SD WE NEEDED NEW ONE AND OLD ONE ALREADY PICKED UP FROM DEALER TO EXPOSE OF, CHARGED $200 FOR THAT AS WELL. I PAID FOR THE ABS LIGHT REPAIR WHICH I HAVE PAID AND DIAGNOSED NUMEROUS TIMES FOR LAST 10YRS TO FIX AND FINALLY JUST PAID THE OVER $1000. TO GET IT FIXED FOR SAFETY REASONS. 9 MONTHS AGO REAR BRAKE LIGHTS WOULD COME ON RANDOMLY WHEN PARKED AND LOCKED KILLING THE BATTERY. I WOULD DRIVE IT TO CHARGE IT UP BUT SINCE IT IS A CAR WE DON'T DRIVE OFTEN OR FAR, IT CONTINUED TO DO THE SAME FOR A FEW WEEKS UNTIL IT DAWNED ON ME THAT THE SEAT WARMER ON THOSE CARS COULD LEAVE AN OPEN CURRENT, TURNED THAT OFF, GOOD FOR A FEW WEEKS, THEN FOUND OUT SAME FOR THE TRUNK LIGHT, UNPLUGGED AND CAPPED THAT AND IT IS FAR BETTER, BUT SOMETHING STILL. AFTER READING ONLINE VW PASSAT FORUMS AND RECALLS I KNOW 2 DEALERSHIPS SD THEY PERFORMED THE BRAKE LIGHT SENSOR RECALL, BUT WAS IT TRULY DONE AND CAUSING THE ISSUE...ANSWER IS NO, VW DEALERS 2X AFTER CHECKING AND BILLING VW FOR THE REPAIR FALSIFIED DOING THE

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 9, 2019124,084 milesCA

I NOTICED A STAIN UNDER MY CAR WHILE IT WAS PARKED IN THE STREET. I FIGURED OUT THAT VW HAD A RECALL ON THE FUEL TANK VENT WHICH REQUIRED REPLACING THE WHOLE FUEL TANK. THE TANK RUNS ABOUT $922 AND IT TAKES UP TO 11 HOURS LABOR TIME. I STARTED A CHAT WITH A VWOA REP TO LOOK INTO THIS ISSUE. SHE SAID THERE ARE NO CURRENT RECALLS OR CAMPAIGNS ON MY VEHICLE AT THIS TIME. SHE ALSO STATED THAT MY CAR'S 26E5/R5 RECALL, IT COVERS ALL 1999-2005 PASSAT AND PASSAT WAGON (5TH GEN) EQUIPPED WITH GAS ENGINES. INSTALL UNDERBODY HEAT SHIELD(S): INSPECT/REPLACE FUEL LINE, FUEL TANK: UPDATE SOFTWARE, IF NECESSARY, HAD BEEN PERFORMED ON 03/12/09 BUT HAS NO SERVICE RECORD TO TELL ME WHAT WAS DONE. IT MAY NOT HAVE ACTUALLY BEEN REPLACED. SHE ALSO SAID VWOA WILL NOT FIX NOR HELP ME FIX IT. I FEEL THAT IF A RECALL FOR AS HUGE SAFETY ISSUE THAT THIS IS, SHOULD NOT FAIL IN THE SAME MANOR AS THE ORIGINAL PART DID. THAT TELLS ME THEY JUST REPLACED IT WITH THE SAME PROBLEM PART IN HOPES THAT THE CAR WOULDN'T BE IN USE BY THE TIME IT FAILS AGAIN. I AM INCLUDING A FEW PICS FOR EVIDENCE. THE EXAMPLE TANK PIC HAS BEEN OUTLINED WHERE THE FUEL LEAK IS ON MY CAR. THANK YOU, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

SeatsFire
Filed May 6, 201956,000 milesPA

05/01/2019 CAR HAD A DEAD BATTERY---CHARGE OVER NIGHT STILL WOULD NOT START---HAD THE CAR TOWED TO AUTO SHOP--UPON ARRIVAL WITH KEY ON APPROX. 15 MIN DRIVE--SMOKE STARTED BILLOWING---DISCONNECTED BATTERY---DRIVERS SIDE SEAT WARMER COMPLETELY MELTED--MECHANIC SAYS UNIT PULLING 30 AMPS--THERE WAS A PREVIOUS RECALL--NOT SURE IF TOTALLY CORRECTED--DONOT WANT TO REPLACE IMMEDIATELY--PLEASE ADVISE

Engine
Filed Feb 4, 201978,000 milesGA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT HOLD FUEL AND THE TANK HAD TO CONSTANTLY BE REFILLED. ALSO, THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO ELLIS MOTORCARS INC (2235 E SOUTH BLVD, MONTGOMERY, AL 36116, (334) 280-1021) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE COOLANT SYSTEM AND THE TIMING CHAIN NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 78,000.

Engine
Filed Jun 7, 2018124,675 milesLA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. WHILE PULLING OUT OF THE DRIVEWAY, THE CONTACT STATED THAT COOLANT WAS LEAKING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE LOW COOLANT WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND AN ABNORMAL BEEPING SOUND WAS HEARD WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE COOLANT LEAK WAS DUE TO AN ENGINE FAILURE THAT WAS NOT REPAIRABLE. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING OR REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 124,675. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

Unknown or Other
Filed May 8, 2018138,718 milesNC

CAR LOSES POWER AND STALLS OUT AFTER COMING TO A STOP. EPC LIGHT ILLUMINATES AND CAR MUST BE PUT IN PARK AND STARTED UP AGAIN TO MOVE. TODAY, IT STALLED AS I PULLED OUT TO MAKE A LEFT TURN AND I WAS STUCK IN THE MIDDLE OF ROAD WITH ONCOMING TRAFFIC COMING AT ME.

Latches/Locks/Linkages › Doors › Latch
Filed Mar 7, 2018190,000 milesTX

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT IT TOOK MULTIPLE ATTEMPTS FOR THE VEHICLE TO BECOME OPERABLE EVEN WHEN THE STARTER WAS ENGAGED. THE VEHICLE ALSO EXPERIENCED AN INTERIOR WATER LEAK AND THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR LATCH WOULD NOT PROPERLY LATCH. IN ADDITION, THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED A COMPLETE LOSS OF ENGINE POWER AND THE CHECK ENGINE, BRAKE, AND VARIOUS OTHER WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED AS A SOFTWARE FAILURE, AND THE IGNITION COIL SPRINGS WERE DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE IGNITION COIL SPRINGS WERE REPLACE HOWEVER THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER AND DEALER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 190,000.

Electrical System
Filed Dec 1, 2017172,000 milesGA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH, THE VEHICLE JERKED AND STALLED. THE VEHICLE INADVERTENTLY SHIFTED IN REVERSE AND THE BRAKES STOPPED WORKING. THE CONTACT HAD TO APPLY THE PARKING BRAKE. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE GEAR SHIFTER WAS STUCK IN PARK. ALSO, THE CHECK ENGINE, TIRE PRESSURE, AND EPC INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO HERITAGE VOLKSWAGEN OF SOUTH ATLANTA AT (678) 263-3711 (4305 JONESBORO RD, UNION CITY, GA 30291) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE IGNITION CONTROL MODULE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND CONFIRMED THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS ASSOCIATED WITH THE VIN. THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED TO CALL NHTSA. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 172,000.

Electronic Stability Control (esc)
Filed Oct 25, 201793,000 milesNC

WHILE DRIVING THE CAR POWER CUTS OFF AND STOPS IN TRAFFIC. HAVE TO RESTART. IT IS DANGEROUS THAT THE CAR JUST STOPS IN TRAFFIC. THE BATTERY CONTINUES TO DRAIN EVEN AFTER TOTALLY RECHARGING THE BATTERY. AFTER A COMPLETE BATTERY RECHARGE AND STARTING THE CAR EVERY DAY, THE BATTERY STILL DRAINS AGAIN AFTER ABOUT A WEEK. THIS STARTED HAPPENING IN JUNE 2016 AND I HAVE ONLY DRIVEN THE CAR ABOUT 30 TOTAL MILES BECAUSE AFRAID IT IS GOING TO SHUT DOWN WHILE DRIVING IN TRAFFIC. RECENTLY, I RECEIVED A RECALL FOR THIS PROBLEM FOR MY 2016 VOLKSWAGEN CC BUT I AM NOT HAVING THE PROBLEM WITH THE CC. I AM HAVING THE DESCRIBED RECALL PROBLEM WITH MY 2003 PASSAT BUT DID NOT RECEIVE A RECALL NOTIFICATION FOR IT. I AM THE ORIGINAL OWNER AND MY PASSAT NEEDS THIS REPAIR.

Engine
Filed Jun 13, 2017203,000 milesWY

IGNITION COILS KEEP FAILING. JUST REPLACED IN FEBRUARY AGAIN IN MAY AND WILL HAVE TO AGAIN HERE ANY DAY.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Dec 21, 2016139,000 milesGA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, THE CONTACT NOTICED A FUEL LEAK FROM THE TOP OF THE TANK. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE TOP OF THE FUEL TANK WAS OLD AND A NEW TANK WAS NEEDED. THE CONTACT ALSO NOTICED PUDDLES OF FUEL WERE PRESENT APPROXIMATELY EIGHT TIMES SINCE SEPTEMBER. THE LEAK WORSENED TWO WEEKS AGO. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 139,000.

Electrical System › Ignition
Filed Dec 14, 2016144,604 milesNE

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY INCLUDED IN A RECALL THAT CALLED FOR THE IGNITION COIL TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED; HOWEVER, THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE IGNITION COIL NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. DUE TO THE FACT THE VEHICLE WAS PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED PER THE RECALL, THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT ABLE TO ASSIST. THE NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER WAS UNKNOWN. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 144,604.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Sep 20, 201690,000 milesAZ

FUEL TANK IS LEAKING NEAR DRIVER SIDE REAR WHEEL. ADVISED BY DEALER VW OF NORTH SCOTTSDALE THAT THERE IS A FUEL LEAK ON TOP OF THE TANK AT THE FUEL TANK VENTILATION VALVE AND THAT THE TANK MUST BE REMOVED TO ASCERTAIN SOURCE OF THE LEAK. DEALER ADVISES TANK WAS REPLACED IN 2010 UNDER A RECALL CAMPAIGN. IT APPEARS THAT THIS CURRENT LEAK IS ASSOCIATED WITH RECALL #28417 AND NHTSA PE8008 AND 08V156000.

Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Aug 17, 2016107,000 milesCA

TEENAGE SON LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE ON THE HIGHWAY. VEHICLE WAS THEN INVOLVED IN A FRONT IMPACT COLLISION AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS WITH THE SIDE OF A FLATBED TRUCK. BUMPER, HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLIES PUSHED UP INTO THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. DRIVERS SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. NEITHER DRIVER SIDE OR PASSENGER SIDE FRONT AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. VEHICLE WAS DECLARED A TOTAL LOSS.

Service Brakes
Filed Jun 17, 201674,000 milesRI

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. WHILE DRIVING 50 MPH, THE BRAKES ENGAGED INDEPENDENTLY AND THE VEHICLE SHOOK VIOLENTLY WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 74,000.

Service Brakes
Filed Jun 16, 201690,000 milesCA

PROBLEMS WITH THE ABS CONTROL UNIT FAILS AFTER FEW YEARS. THIS COULD LEAD TO AN ACCIDENT SINCE THE CAR CANNOT STOP IN THE TIME & DISTANCE ORIGINALLY SPECIFIED WHEN CAR WAS PURCHASED. ALSO, THE SMOG STATIONS ARE NOT ABLE TO READ THE OBD2 CONNECTOR DUE TO THIS ISSUE, WHICH FORCES YOU TO BUY A NEW MODULE FOR ALMOST $600.00. THE MOST IMPORTANT IN THIS ISSUE IS THE SAFETY IN STOPPING AND NOT HAVING YOUR BRAKES LOCK, WHICH ALSO CAUSES THE CAR TO SKID IN SUDDEN STOPS AND CAUSE AN ACCIDENT. THERE IS A BLINKING WARNING LIGHT THAT COMES ON THE DASHBOARD THAT POINTS TO THE DASHBOARD.

Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 4, 201675,000 milesNY

THE FRONT FLOOR GETS VERY HOT WHEN THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION EVEN WHEN THE AIRCONDITION IS RUNNING

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Apr 1, 2016CO

LESS THEN >100K MILES. PLASTIC FUEL LINE THAT RUNS ALONG FIREWALL WAS DAMAGED DUE TO SCREW WITH THREAD FACING ENGINE BAY, WHICH SITS RIGHT IN BETWEEN BOTH FUEL LINES. I SPOKE TO VW WHICH SAID THE RECALL HAD BEEN FIXED ON MY CAR IN 2012 (I AM SECOND OWNER), BUT THE SCREW THAT CREATES THE PROBLEM WAS NEVER REPLACED OR REMOVED. A LOCAL VW STEALERSHIP IS QUOTING ME 500+ FOR THE REPAIR ON A CAR WHO'S KBB IS 2000 IN PERFECT CONDITION (FAR FROM IT ;)

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Mar 15, 2016120,000 milesGA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS LEAKING FUEL FROM THE FUEL TANK. THE CONTACT TOOK THE CONTACT TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL TANK FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A RECALL. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000. UPDATED 05/11/16*LJ *CN

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Feb 4, 2016191,000 milesVA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. THE CONTACT SMELLED FUEL WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL LINE WAS FRACTURED AND LEAKED FUEL ONTO A PORTION OF THE ENGINE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TECHNICIAN WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE FRACTURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE RECALL "EXPIRED". THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 191,000.

Service Brakes
Filed Jan 13, 2016150,000 milesVA

ABS LIGHT AND BRAKE LIGHT ON VOLKSWAGEN STATES FAULTY CONTROL MODULE.

Service Brakes
Filed Jan 7, 201690,000 milesKY

MY DASH SHOWED 2 LIGHTS A RED BREAK LIGHT AND YELLOW ABS IT KEEPS BEEPING . IT STARTED RANDOMLY ONE MORNING WHEN I TURNED MY CAR ON ITS BEEN DOING IT FOR 6 MONTHS NOW

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Dec 19, 2015153,200 milesMI

MY DAUGHTER DROVE THIS VEHICLE INTO MY GARAGE AND REPORTED TO ME THAT SHE SMELLED A STRONG ODOR OF GAS. I LOOKED AND NOTICED GAS DRIPPING ONTO THE FLOOR. I GOT DOWN AND INSPECTED THE AREA WHERE IT WAS COMING FROM AND NOTED THAT IT WAS FLOWING FROM THE TOP (OUT OF SIGHT) OF THE TANK. BACKED THE CAR OUT ONTO THE DRIVE AND PLACED A TOWEL UNDER THE AREA. CALLED THE DEALERSHIP AND SCHEDULED AN APPOINTMENT. BETTEN IMPORTS (VOLKSWAGEN DEALERSHIP) OF GRAND RAPIDS MI, INSPECTED IT AND I WAS INFORMED IT HAD A CRACK IN THE PLASTIC TANK THE LENGTH OF A DIME. THE DEALERSHIP RECOMMENDED THE TANK BE REPLACED AT A ESTIMATED COST OF $2,700. DUE TO THE EXTENSIVE COST I DID NOT ELECT TO HAVE THIS DONE AT THIS TIME. ONLY SEEMS TO BE AN ISSUE WHEN TANK IS FILLED TO MAX CAPACITY.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Nov 30, 2015180,000 milesPR

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS A FUME ODOR EMITTED INSIDE AND AROUND THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 180,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

Engine
Filed Nov 18, 2015130,000 milesMD

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS. THE FAILURE WAS EXPERIENCED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO PERFORMED DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE ENGINE OXYGEN SENSOR, COIL SPRING, SPARKS PLUGS, AND WIRES WERE REPLACED; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE WAS NOT CORRECTED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TAIL LIGHTS ALSO FAILED. THE TAIL LIGHTS WERE NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURES. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.

Air Bags
Filed Nov 5, 2015AL

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V483000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.

Electrical System
Filed Nov 4, 2015108,000 milesVA

DRIVING AT NIGHT, 65MPH, INTERSTATE HWY. LOW BEAM HEADLIGHTS WENT OUT. HIGH BEAMS DID WORK. REPLACED BOTH HEADLIGHT BULBS. DID NOT FIX. COST $95. REPLACE HEADLIGHT RELAY. DID NOT FIX. COST IN EXCESS OF $200. RECALL FOR LATER YEAR PASSAT FOR SAME PROBLEM CAUSED BY "HOOD SLAM?"

Engine
Filed Nov 4, 201593,000 milesVA

DRIVING, LESS THAN 45. INTERMITTENT STOP ENGINE LOW OIL PRESSURE LIGHT. NO OTHER INDICATIONS. OIL LEVEL IS AT SPECIFICATIONS. SUSPECT LONG KNOWN PROBLEM OF SLUDGE IN THE OIL PICKUP TUBE.. VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED

SeatsFire
Filed Sep 28, 2015116,000 milesCA

WE WERE JUST LEAVING OUR FRIENDS HOUSE IT WAS APPROX. 6AM IN MORNING LITTLE COLD OUT SO I TURNED ON THE SEAT WARMERS WHICH IS ALWAYS NICE TOUCH TO WARM YOU UP ON THOSE COLD MORNINGS, ANYHOW ABOUT 4-5MINUTES AFTER SEAT WARMERS WERE TURNED ON PASSENGER SIDE WHERE I WAS SITTING GOT RATHER WARM AND THEN HOT AND THEN ACTUALLY START SMOKING AND FLAMES CAME OUT THERE WAS FIRE RIGHT UNDER MY BOTTOM. I FREAKED OUT JUMPED OUT OF SEAT ..I WAS YELLING FIRE FIRE FIRE YOU COULD SMELL PLASTIC BURNING AS IT WAS SMOKING AND BURNING.MY BOYFRIEND POURED WATER ON AND SMOTHERED OUT THE FIRE WITH HIS JACKET I'M A BIT LEARY OF THE CAR BECAUSE I DON'T FEEL ITS SAFE. I HAD MY BOYFRIEND UNPLUG HARNESS UNDER SEAT AND NOW MY AIR BAG WARNING DEFAULT LIGHT AND BELL STAY ON. I AM SHOCKED TO SEE SEVERAL OTHER COMPLAINTS REGARDING THIS ISSUE AND THAT VW PEOPLE HAVEN'T ADDRESSED THIS. I FEEL THIS CAR IS A DEATH TRAP.VERY UNHAPPY WITH THIS VEHICLE.

Engine
Filed Sep 28, 2015120,000 milesCA

MY FLOORBOARDS ARE SOAKED WITH COOLANT HAD NOTICED I HAD LEAK BUT HAD NO IDEA THAT IT WAS LEAKING INTO INSIDE CABINET, HEATER CORE WENT OUT AND EVERY TIME I ADDED FLUID IT WOULD BE GONE WASNT SURE WHERE ITWAS GOING I COULD SMELL ANTIFREEZE SMELL FOR SOMETIME BUT THOUGHT IF IT WERE OVERHEATING DASH WOULD GIVE SOME WARNING!..AGAIN NOW THAT I KNOW IT WAS UNHEALTHY TO BE BREATHING THE TOXIC SMELL.MY DAUGHTER STILL PUTTING UP WITH SMELL HARD TO GET RID OF IT EVEN AFTER SHAMPOOING {SORRY AFTER SHOPVAC SUCKED ATLEAST 2GALLONS OF COOLANT FROM MY FLOOR BOARDS...THIS REALLY MAKES ME ANGRY THAT I DIDNT KNOW I WAS FORCED TO BREATH IN THESE TOXIC FUMES FOR SEVERAL MONTHS AND CONTINUES,

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Sep 15, 2015153,000 milesMS

EVERY TIME I CRANK MY CAR IT SMELLS LIKE GAS. I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AND SMOKE CAME OUT FROM UNDER THE HOOD WHEN I STOPPED AND LIFTED THE HOOD IT HAD A STRONG GAS SMELL.

Power Train
Filed Aug 24, 2015CA

THE AD BLUE HEATER FAILURES ARE RAMPANT IS ALL PASSAT MODELS 2012 TO 2015. THE SAFETY ISSUE IS THAT IN THE WINTER TIME WHEN AD BLUE FREEZES THE CAR GOES INTO A NON RESTART COUNTDOWN. IF THE CAR STALLS DURING THIS TIME THE PERSON MAY BE STUCK IN SUB ZERO WEATHER WITHOUT HEAT. THE AD BLUE HEATER IS ONLY COVERED UNDER THE 3 YEAR 36,000 MILE WARRANTY BECAUSE THEY SAY IT DOES NOT QUALIFY AS EMISSIONS CONTROL SYSTEM. THE CAR WILL SHUT DOWN BECAUSE IF THE AD BLUE FREEZES THE EMISSIONS GOES UNEXPECTEDLY HIGH SO HOW CAN THIS NOT BE PART OF THE EMISSIONS SYSTEM? THE COST OF REPAIR IS $1,000 PLUS.

Engine
Filed Jul 29, 201583,000 milesNY

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH, THE ENGINE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ENGINE EXHIBITED SLUDGE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE MECHANIC RECOMMENDED THAT THE ENGINE BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 83,000.

EngineFire
Filed Jul 16, 2015111,352 milesOH

I WAS DRIVING THE CAR TO WORK 2 MILES FROM MY HOUSES OIL WARNING COME ON RETURN TO MY HOUSE TO GET A SECOND CAR PARK THE CAR AND LEFT 5 MINUTE LATER GET A PHONE CALL MY CAR IS ON FIRE THANKS GOD I WENT BACK HOME CALL VW THEY SAID NO RECALLS BUT NATIONAL SAFETY INVESTIGATION I LOST MY CAR BECAUSE DON'T HAVE FULL COVER INSURANCE

Electrical System
Filed Jun 26, 201560,000 milesCT

CYLINDERS MISFIRE CAUSING ACCELERATION HESITATION. SPARK PLUGS AND COIL WERE REPLACED FEB.2009, DEC. 2013, AUG. 2014, JUNE 2015. THE CONDITIONS ARE REPETITIVE AND IDENTICAL.

Engine
Filed May 21, 2015162,000 milesPA

MISFIRE ON 2 CYLINDERS DUE TO FAULTY IGNITION COIL PACKS

Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine › Gasoline › Belts and Associated Pulleys
Filed May 8, 2015100,000 milesMD

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESTART. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE TIMING BELT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14E007000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Apr 29, 201582,500 milesFL

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. WHILE REFUELING THE VEHICLE, IT STARTED TO LEAK FUEL FROM UNDERNEATH THE FUEL TANK. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 82,500. ...UPDATED 06-12-15 *BF THE CONSUMER STATED VW CUSTOMER SERVICE WAS ADVOCATING TO GET A NEW FUEL TANK INSTALLED FOR HIM AT NO COST. UPDATED 06/23/15*JB

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Apr 26, 201583,000 milesMD

ENGINE LIGHTS COME ON. CAR AT TIMES START SHAKING - NOT CONSISTENTLY THOUGH. TOOK IT TO SHOP: FOUND OUT IGNITION COILS MISFIRES. THIS HAS OCCURRED 4 TIMES IN A 2 YEAR TIME SPAN. THE MOST RECENT 2 BEING A MONTH APART. THE MOST RECENT INCIDENT BURNED ALMOST ALL OF THE SPARK PLUGS. DID RESEARCH AND THIS WEBSITE DESCRIBES MY SITUATION PERFECTLY: HTTP://WWW.VWPROBLEMS.COM/TRENDS/IGNITION-COIL/. *TR

Structure › Body
Filed Apr 23, 2015135,800 milesOR

I HAVE HAD MY 2003 VW PASSAT A YEAR NOW I HAVE JUST NOTICED IN THE PAST WEEK THAT IT HAD A LEAK I THOUGHT IT WAS FROM THE WINDOW OR SUN ROOF I WENT TO VACUUM THE CAR OUT ON A NICE DAY AND SEEN THAT IT STILL HAD VERY WET CARPET AND THEN NOTICED THE CARPET WAS A GREEN COLOR LIKE IT WAS COOLANT I THEN HAD MY BF CHECK IT AND IT IS. I RUN A DAYCARE AND USE THIS CAR DAILY WITH MY CHILDREN WE HAVE BEEN BREATHING IN THIS COOLANT FOR WEEKS NOW AND THAT PROBABLY EXPLAINS MY DAUGHTER SAYING SHE GETS HEADACHES WHEN WE DRIVE THE CAR. I HAVE DONE SOME RESEARCH AND SEE IT IS A VERY COMMON AND RECALLED THING WITH THE HEATER CORE AND I HAD NO IDEA I HOPE US BREATHING THIS IN HASN'T DONE ANY DAMAGE I HAVE A ONE YEAR OLD WHO HAS BEEN IN IT THIS WHOLE TIME AS WELL.IM VERY UNPLEASED WITH THIS CAR. *TR

Complaints 1-50 of 634, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2013
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
202213000Routine
202120110Routine
202018300Routine
201912100Routine
201846410Do not drive
2017110710Routine
2016106500Routine
2015243720Above average
20145941030Above average
2013749942Fatalities reported
20124841130Above average
201116011Fatalities reported
2010163410Routine
20091464120Routine
2008168460Routine
2007262760Above average
2006576760Above average
20051484110Routine
20042794250High concern
2003 — this page6347940High concern
20026364462Fatalities reported
20014304140Above average
20005075251Fatalities reported
19996646132Fatalities reported
1998331541Fatalities reported
199770120Routine
1996142110Routine
199593110Routine
199425110Routine
1993683100Routine
199239110Routine
199124110Routine
199034230Routine

Compare every Passat year →

2003 Volkswagen Passat: questions buyers ask

Is the 2003 Volkswagen Passat a good car?

Going by the federal record, it is one of the Passat years to avoid: owners filed 634 complaints, 3.8 times as many as a typical Passat year. The most common complaint is about the engine (21%).

What is the most common problem with the 2003 Volkswagen Passat?

The engine: 135 of the 634 complaints (21%) are about it. Owners most often say it sets off warning lights on the dash (29%), burns oil or loses oil pressure (21%) and turns on the check engine light (18%). The typical report comes at 78,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2003 Volkswagen Passat have?

7 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Jun 13, 2018. The largest, 07V063000, covered 1,002,000 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2003 Volkswagen Passat problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 59,000 miles. For the engine the midpoint is 78,000 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2003 Volkswagen Passat?

Yes, 6 times. The latest, EA11002 ("Engine Compartment Fire"), was opened Jan 26, 2011 and closed Feb 17, 2012.

Are there service bulletins for the 2003 Volkswagen Passat?

The manufacturer filed 213 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the engine (41), the electrical system (35) and the visibility (17). They include a warranty extension, 0421, filed Aug 4, 2004. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

A high number of complaints describe fires or crashes.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Jun 13, 2018. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.