Recalls · problems · safety

2016 Volkswagen Passat: recalls and problems

5 recalls and 106 owner complaints on file with NHTSA. The most-reported problem area is engine.

5recalls
106complaints
4crashes reported
0fires reported
3injuries reported

Recalls

Check recalls for your exact VIN

Most common problems

  • Engine16 · 15%
  • Fuel/Propulsion System15 · 14%
  • Electrical System15 · 14%
  • Service Brakes15 · 14%
  • Unknown Or Other13 · 12%
  • Steering11 · 10%
  • Vehicle Speed Control11 · 10%
  • Air Bags8 · 8%
  • Steering (Air) Bags8 · 8%
  • Electrical System (Air) Bags7 · 7%

What owners report

Steering,Electrical System,Air Bags

The clock spring system failed, rendering all of the cars' steering wheel functions non-functional. the airbag light is on and the steering wheels airbag does not operate as well as the cars horn and auto cruise controls. the instrument cluster is malfunctioning as well. the safety risks associated with the malfunctions could result in great harm to the driver and passengers in the vehicle.

Fuel/Propulsion System

currently leaking raw fuel under the hood (matching recall 15f7) and stalling after fill-ups (matching recall 24v110000). i am requesting a specialized safety review and goodwill assistance to cover the repair because this is a documented manufacturing defect, not wear-and-tear." 2. leverage the "suction jet pump" investigation there is a current investigation (as of early 2026) because vw’s recent fuel pump recall (

Fuel System, Gasoline

The contact owns a 2016 volkswagen passat. the contact stated that while driving at 40 mph, there was a strong gasoline odor inside the cabin. the contact immediately pulled over and exited the vehicle to inspect for visible fuel leaks, but found no leaks. while attempting to restart the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle jerked and stalled repeatedly. additionall

Fuel System, Gasoline

The contact owns a 2016 volkswagen passat. the contact stated that while driving at various speeds, there was an abnormal fuel odor coming from the vehicle. there was no warning light illuminated. the dealer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. upon investigation, the contact discovered nhtsa campaign number: 16v403000 (fuel system, gasoline). the manufacturer was notified of the failure, and the c

Excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. They are owner reports and have not been verified.

Crash-test ratings

VersionOverallFrontalSideRollover
2016 Volkswagen Passat 4 DR FWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Source: NHTSA recalls, complaints and NCAP APIs, covering Passat. Last refreshed 2026-09-29.