2005 Volkswagen Passat Volkswagen Passat 2005

We are 103,000+ car owners sharing real-world car information.

Join Us

2005 Volkswagen Passat repairs by problem area

Engine (44%)

Transmission and Drivetrain (18%)

Brakes and Traction Control (2%)

Suspension and Steering (9%)

Electrical and Air Conditioning (17%)

Paint, Rust, Leaks, Rattles, and Trim (6%)

Other (5%)

Chart based on 321 repairs.
See TSBs and recalls for the 2005 Volkswagen Passat.

2005 Volkswagen Passat repair cost distribution

$2500+ (4%)

$1000 - $2499 (12%)

$500 - $999 (22%)

$100 - $499 (34%)

< $100 (28%)

Worried about potential repair costs? An extended warranty can provide peace of mind.

Chart based on 210 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance.

2005 Volkswagen Passat

Engine not specified

Volkswagen Passat in Florida, United States
Nov 2011 - Dec 2011
Dec 2011

52000 mi

US $800
headgasket ac module 
Volkswagen Passat in Connecticut, United States
Dec 2011 - Mar 2015
Jan 2012

US $2500
replace valves 

Return to top

2005 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 170hp 1.8L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Volkswagen Passat in Florida, United States
Feb 2009 - Jun 2011
Aug 2009

70000 mi
Outer CV boots, front. 
Volkswagen Passat in Kentucky, United States
Dec 2012 - Jun 2015
Jan 2013 Seat heater burned a hole through driver's seat. Heater element, seat padding, and seat cover replaced. 
May 2013

122600 mi
Thermostat replaced 
Oct 2013

124200 mi
Coolant flange was leaking--replaced flange. 
Jun 2014

129000 mi

US $5
Windshield washer fluid sensor failed. 
Jul 2014

129200 mi
Driver's side outer CV boot was torn, replaced with reman. VW unit. 
Feb 2015

133000 mi

US $80
Left and right motor mounts, front snub mount replaced. 
Apr 2015

134500 mi

US $10
Misfire on cylinder one--coilpack replaced. Fuel door release switch failed--replaced with new part. 
Volkswagen Passat in Massachusetts, United States
Mar 2008 - Aug 2011
Jul 2009

39000 mi
Rattle in dash 
Dec 2009

42000 mi
Torn CV boot 
Dec 2010

52000 mi

US $250
Torn CV Boot replaced 
Volkswagen Passat in Ohio, United States
Mar 2009 - Jun 2011
Apr 2009

52000 mi

US $700
Replaced passenger side axle shaft due to defect CV. Total cost 691.23 
May 2009

52000 mi

US $290
Replace CV joint boot---torn. Two days later noise --- clunking. Now the Trans-Axle needs work add another $600 
Mar 2010

62000 mi

US $5000
Remotes did not work, interior lights did not work. Locks did not work. Cause of problem shorted out comfort module (located under passenger seat) 
May 2010

62000 mi

US $900
Boot replaced/constant velocity joint repaired/replaced on drivers side. The passenger side had same problem last year. 
Volkswagen Passat in Utah, United States
Apr 2011 - Sep 2012
Jun 2011

85000 mi

US $545
Brake Light came on - oil shop said "pads looked great" 1 month later, turbo shut down and car was riding rough. REAL VW Mechanic said front pads needed replacement, all spark plugs and 1 coil. Car running excellent again! 
Aug 2011

85000 mi

US $350
Car was idling very rough - almost dying at stop lights. Computer reading showed 14 malfunctions - mechanic THOUGHT major engine problem - started to disasemble but then found a small valve installed backwards - replaced & it worked! 

Return to top

2005 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 170hp 1.8L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic AWD

Volkswagen Passat in Massachusetts, United States
Jun 2010 - Sep 2011
Jan 2011

110000 mi

US $650
replaced both front axles belly pan replaced with used pan replaced both front axles 
Apr 2011

115000 mi

US $460
AC not blowing cold, garage had me recharge. Still not blowing cold and garage replaced a relay on second visit. 
Sep 2011

130000 mi

US $456
Mass airflow sensor 

Return to top

2005 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 170hp 1.8L I4 5-speed manual AWD

Volkswagen Passat in Minnesota, United States
Dec 2008 - Jun 2014
Apr 2010

58000 mi

US $700
Fuel pump stopped working. Had to replace it. 
May 2012

91200 mi

US $1400
Replaced timing and serpentine belts, leaking valve-cover gasket. 
Aug 2012

96000 mi

US $340
Replaced torn left front CV joint boot 
Dec 2012

101000 mi

US $375
Leak in left rear brake assembly, replaced assembly. 
Dec 2013

118000 mi

US $420
exhaust downpipe rusted through at flexible elbow. replaced it. 

Return to top

2005 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 134hp 2.0L I4 Diesel 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Volkswagen Passat in Ontario, Canada
Jul 2009 - May 2016
Jun 2009

87754 mi

C $65
Replaced Freewheel Clutch pulley for alternator. Had gotten Electrical Fault alarm & MIL indicator, battery was no longer charging. 
Feb 2010

98982 mi

C $351
Replaced Left Outer CV Joint Boot & outer CV joint. Rubber boot had separated at seam & allowed road salt into CV joint. Joint bearing surfaces and ball bearings had deteriorated and made noises at left turns while accelerating. 
Dec 2011

145080 mi

C $100
Windshield washer pump leaking 
Jan 2012

146320 mi

C $100
Windshield wiper fluid pump leaking had to be replaced 
Mar 2012

148800 mi
Air conditioner does not come on despite fan working. Likely electrical and many hours to trace wiring problem. Abandoned repair. Repair shop could not diagnose problem, Research on TDI site led to dx of circuit board problem- cleaned and resoldered and works fine. 
Apr 2013

173580 mi

C $125
Brake line leaked through area friction with plastic item above, wore through plastic covering and steel line. Brake failure while driving. The CV joint boot was failing again after replaced 2 years ago. 
Jun 2013

176700 mi

C $10
Central door locks, windows, etc not working. Replaced a bad fuse eventually but the rear tail gate door is still not working manually or electronically- cannot open it. 
Jul 2014

199100 mi
Rust front fenders, quarter side panels and trunk. VW will cover only fenders and one quarter panel 
May 2015

213900 mi

C $3000
Failure of torque converter 
Volkswagen Passat in Maryland, United States
Sep 2008 - Jun 2016
Jul 2009

35000 mi
Ceramic glow plugs replaced with steel plugs. ECM reflashed with updates. 
Mar 2010

37000 mi

US $2000
TDI engine balance shaft module was making noise. If balance shaft module failed would starve engine of oil pressure leading to catastrophic failure. VW aware of the design flaw but denies it exists. VW makes a gear drive OEM part for the problem. 
Aug 2011

45000 mi

US $574
A/C compressor relay malfunctioned and was replaced. A/C stopped blowing cold air. Left front outer cv boot torn. Axle pulled, inspected, regreased with new boot installed. 
Volkswagen Passat in British Columbia, Canada
Mar 2008 - Dec 2016
Jun 2008

34875 mi

C $46
Turbo boost hose became loose and had to be re-attached. reconnect loosened turbo boost hose. Would have been covered under warrantee but went to local GURU to avoid the hassle. 
Jul 2009

47120 mi

C $500
ceramic glow plug defect. Self diagnose and paid out of pocket. VW recall notice issued in August. Seeking for reimbursement. 
Sep 2009

48360 mi
Factory engineered defect in chain driven balance shaft/oil pump module. Noise and vibrations increase. Replaced with factory gear drive part under warranty. I feel for those w/o warranty = $3000 USD repair. VWoA not officially awknowledging the issue 
Oct 2010

60440 mi

C $350
Drivers door lock module failed requiring replacement 
Nov 2010

61380 mi

C $450
Replaced drivers door lock module. Independent shop performed Water Ingress preventative TSB. Leaking window washer fluid pump. Self diagnosed, ordered and repaired part myself. 
Dec 2013

83700 mi

C $495
Cv boots replaced 
Jul 2014

86580 mi

C $275
Replaced thermostat, original was stuck open, perhaps for years. 
Nov 2016

102920 mi

C $850
leaking thermostat (again) causing low coolant vacuum pump leaking valve cover gasket leaking all original brakes need replacement (another $550) tie rods beginning to show wear Coolant low. Unknown coolant consumption. Vacuum pump seal worn. Re&Re performed. Oil leak from valve cover gasket. Gasket replaced. $600 of total. 
Volkswagen Passat in Ontario, Canada
Mar 2010 - Oct 2012
Jul 2010

108500 mi

C $154
Checked for leak and refilled Air Conditioner gas 
Sep 2010

111600 mi

C $3500
Replaced chain driven balance shaft with gear driven one 
Jul 2011

117800 mi

C $320
Lost gas again. They found where but just re-charged it, didn't fix it. Update when sold: retained charge after all. Lost gas again. They found where but just re-charged it, didn't fix it. 
Jun 2012

133920 mi

C $300
Boots were ripped 
Oct 2012

C $150
Window washer motor replaced 
Volkswagen Passat in Oregon, United States
Jul 2013 - Jul 2018
Jul 2013

137000 mi

US $1000
Replace transmission still under warranty. 
Volkswagen Passat in Illinois, United States
May 2017 - Jun 2018
Oct 2017

270000 mi

US $2800
Replaced original shock absorbers (which had lasted nearly 12 years and over 250000 miles!) with Koni Orange shock absorbers. Also replaced front springs because they looked like they make crack soon. Replaced 12 year old tandem pump which was leaking very little oil but leaving stains on the driveway. Replaced two coolant hoses which looked weak and about to fail. 
Jan 2018

273000 mi

US $993
Replace front control arms 
Apr 2018

274500 mi

US $466
Oil leak from rear of valve cover. Replaced valve cover. 
May 2018

274500 mi

US $1100
Replaced condenser and radiator fan 
Volkswagen Passat in Ontario, Canada
Sep 2012 - Dec 2014
Sep 2012

132791 mi

C $1699
Torque Converter popped. Transmission fluid leaked out. Scanning of error codes done by dealer. Mister Transmission replaced the converter, taken apart and cleaned all tran. components + fixed leak from differential. 
Oct 2012

133920 mi

C $293
CV Driveshaft (passenger side) replaced 
Feb 2013

137368 mi

C $85
washer pump leaking and was replaced 
Mar 2013

139500 mi

C $249
CV Driveshaft - driver side replaced 
Aug 2013

142498 mi

C $469
Alternator replaced with a quality re-built unit. 
Nov 2013

146424 mi

C $137
Coolant reservoir return line replaced 
Apr 2014

152356 mi

C $612
Turbo issues...no turbo. Mass airflow sensor replaced, and air filter clogged, was also replaced. 
May 2014

152560 mi

C $368
Turbo issues. Solenoid replaced. Vacuum lines checked. 
Jul 2014

155605 mi

C $316
Suspension work: rear control arm replaced (with ball joint) 
Aug 2014

157317 mi

C $452
Issues with leaking and "flushing noise": Coolant thermostat/housing and lower rad hose replaced + system flush. Assessment of Radiator core problems...estimate on the repair of the core by VW dealer: $1500 
Oct 2014

161200 mi
Issues with transmission: Slipping in reverse and between gear 4-5 when car driven in traffic and/or highway for extended period of time (>1 hr). Assessment of transmission re-build $3000 by German transmission specialist. Repair not done 
Volkswagen Passat in Alberta, Canada
Aug 2012 - Jul 2022
Apr 2018

159340 mi

C $35
passenger headlight does not last like the other or other cars I have had. Items must be removed before the light can be changed. Not difficult just takes time. 
Dec 2020

189 mi

C $1900
Replace turbo 
Volkswagen Passat in Ontario, Canada
May 2016 - Apr 2018
Dec 2016

210800 mi

C $805
Left front cv joint  and wheel bearing 
Feb 2017

212040 mi

C $20
#1 cylinder glow plug 
Apr 2017

212660 mi

C $60
Valve cover gasket Repaired and painted front bottom fender rust and door trim rust. 
Volkswagen Passat in Illinois, United States
Sep 2014 - Jan 2018
Dec 2014

191000 mi

US $2000
Transmission quit going in forward gears. Would go in reverse. Chunks in transmission pan. Replaced with 5 speed manual swap kit. 
Apr 2015

192300 mi

US $700
Engine oil pump weak, replaced with upgraded oil pump assenbly and removed balance shaft assemblies. Both known to be failure spots with this design. 
Jan 2018

151000 mi

US $560
EGR cooler failed. Putting coolant into combustion path. Tell tale white smoke like head gasket blown.  Camshaft position sensor failed. 
Volkswagen Passat in Washington, United States
May 2009 - Jul 2015
Dec 2009

103000 mi

US $1200
Heater core blocked and needed replacement. 
Jun 2012

158000 mi

US $380
Sticky left front brake caliper caused noise, steering vibration 
Feb 2013

166800 mi

US $800
Emissions. Check engine light came on. Replaced Mass flow meter. Also replaced 2 motor mounts. Light came on again, replaced turbo boost tube that had a small hole. So far working well. 
May 2014

189000 mi

US $1500
Thought trans was slipping. Dealer Sid needed new transmission. Took to indep shop trans did not need repair Had taken to dealer. They wanted to replace trans. Prob was fouled throttle body. Very dirty causing poor performance and late trans shifting. Since cleaned, runs better and gets better mileage. Still feel trans not quite right though. Replaced driver front CV boot 
Dec 2014

200000 mi

US $1000
CV joint noise. Replaced both front axles with VW factory rebuilt axles. Shop had used Chinese aftermarket in the past on some vehicles but was not happy with longevity. 
Mar 2015

203000 mi

US $1000
Noise in front of engine. TDI alternator has clutch similar to ac pump so alternator only runs when needed. Clutch froze up damging alternator, so replaced alternator with new clutch, belt and tensioner pulley. Now needs tires. 
Volkswagen Passat in New Brunswick, Canada
Mar 2014 - Dec 2017
Jul 2014

172220 mi

C $300
Renewed control arms, passengers side. 
May 2015

187240 mi

C $700
I replaced shocks (4) and strut bearings 
Sep 2015

192820 mi

C $150
Turbo hose needed replacing. 
Dec 2015

192820 mi

C $1400
Dmf was rattling and clutch was slipping. replaced with smf and new clutch. 
Sep 2016

204600 mi

C $1000
Rebuilt front suspension 
Oct 2016

205840 mi

C $250
Had to replace lower turbo hose. 
Jul 2017

213280 mi

C $688
noisy suspension. replaced 2 upper control arms, and link kit. 
Oct 2017

215760 mi

C $878
cooling system repairs. replaced water pump and rear head cooling flange, added new coolant. 
Volkswagen Passat in Nova Scotia, Canada
Aug 2012 - Oct 2012
Oct 2012

110360 mi

C $1600
Removed balance shaft assembly Oil filter / change 

Return to top

2005 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

190-horsepower 2.8L V6 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Volkswagen Passat in Pennsylvania, United States
Apr 2010 - Mar 2012
May 2010

108000 mi

US $880
Replaced ignition coil and purge valve Replaced coil pack and purge valve. Had to rent car for 5 days while part was delivered. 
Apr 2011

124000 mi

US $330
CV boot failed - front left half shaft replaced Both headlights failed 

Return to top

2005 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

190-horsepower 2.8L V6 5-speed shiftable automatic AWD

Volkswagen Passat in Colorado, United States
Mar 2008 - Jun 2011
Apr 2008

23000 mi
Roof trim would not stay in place, dlr replaced trim pcs, OK for now. This is the second time these were replaced, first was upon vehicle delivery. 
Volkswagen Passat in Nebraska, United States
Jun 2015 - Oct 2015
Aug 2015

122400 mi
Fuel tank replaced due to 2008 recall (NHTSA Reference #08V156000). The valve mentioned in the recall passed inspection in 2008 and later failed. Having VW cover it took a few calls, but they covered it in the end. Leaky seal. Valve cover gasket leak. 
Oct 2015

126000 mi
Valve cover gasket leak 
Volkswagen Passat in Maryland, United States
Apr 2008 - Aug 2011
Feb 2009

52000 mi

US $530
Bad fuel pump. 
Dec 2010

93000 mi

US $2500
Motor Mounts  

Return to top

2005 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 170hp 1.8L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Volkswagen Passat in Illinois, United States
Oct 2011 - Mar 2018
Nov 2011

49500 mi

US $800
Rubber seal on oil cooler was cracked, causing the STOP engine/OIL PRESS light to come on. Turns out I probably could have driven with the problem as long as seal didn't break but didn't know that, so considered it an emergency situation. Oil cooler rubber seal was cracked, resulting in loss of oil pressure. Repair involved pressure test before and after, removal of entire cooler, engine flush and oil change, and replacement of seal, which was apparently known to be faulty. 
Nov 2012

58200 mi

US $1300
Oil Pressure warning light came on while on highway and in town. Somewhat sporadic the following week. Problem was with the oil pump - it's pumping erratically. Had to replace the pump. 
Dec 2012

58000 mi

US $280
Check Engine Light went on. Code said cooling system performance. Problem was bad sensor. The shop replaced. 
Apr 2013

59200 mi

US $400
Check Engine light came on. 2 codes came up, one was a thermometer/thermostat. The other had something to do with a fan blowing vapors out on start-up that wasn't working. Emissions-related. 
Feb 2014

64000 mi

US $900
Turbo "flap" was stuck open causing loud engine at start-up,smelly exhaust and poor mileage. A gasket had been blown apparently. Check Engine light was on. I forget the code. 
Sep 2014

67000 mi

US $3000
Boot was cracked; drive shaft needed to be replaced 
Nov 2014

67700 mi
Seat warmer, set to 3 and on for approximately 10 minutes, burned a hole through the seat, burning my leg. Wires were exposed and hot, seat cover was smoking. 
Jun 2015

72000 mi

US $1500
One CV joint/boot was cracked and needed repair. Also voluntarily got new headlights. Oil was changed as well. 
Apr 2017

81174 mi

US $1260
Secondary air motor needed replacing. Bearings were going, very loud on cold starts. 
Oct 2017

85000 mi

US $650
Air mass sensor went out(?) Needed replaced, check engine light had come on. 
Volkswagen Passat in British Columbia, Canada
Jan 2010 - May 2014
Feb 2010

54560 mi

C $625
cv joints replaced cracked boot 
Jun 2010

57660 mi
compressor crapped out would coat 1900 to repair decide to not to fix 
Mar 2013

76260 mi

C $300
replaced valve cover gasket and spark plugs 
Oct 2013

80980 mi

C $500
Replaced booth CV joints because one side was cracked 
Dec 2013

86180 mi

C $101
coil pack 
Feb 2014

87280 mi

C $101
coil pack another one failed 
Volkswagen Passat in Georgia, United States
Dec 2015 - Dec 2016
Feb 2016

113700 mi

US $800
Don't remember exactly Heater core out again 
Volkswagen Passat in Maryland, United States
Oct 2010 - Jan 2014
Aug 2013

181100 mi
replaced axle 

Return to top

2005 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 170hp 1.8L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic AWD

Volkswagen Passat in Massachusetts, United States
Aug 2009 - Mar 2010
Oct 2009

42527 mi

US $472
ENGINE OIL & FILTER CHANGE ($67.) REPLACE FAILED LF PWR WINDOW REGULATOR ($390.) 

Return to top

2005 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 134hp 2.0L I4 Diesel 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Volkswagen Passat in Quebec, Canada
Sep 2010 - May 2013
Oct 2010

86614 mi
Left front suspension boot CV joint replaced under warranty. Discovered during routine oil change service. 
Nov 2010

87854 mi

C $40
Radio antenna broke. Purchased from the dealer 
Oct 2011

100440 mi

C $260
Discovered during last maintenance. Was noisy for some time – parts not in stock. $330 parts and labor, $70 for installing winter tires. Right Front Outside Suspension Boot replaced. $260 
Jul 2012

106840 mi

C $130
Turbo Underboost P0299 CEL - Cracked turbo hose 
Volkswagen Passat in Michigan, United States
Jul 2010 - Oct 2011
May 2010

70000 mi

US $650
Replaced driver CV boot and axle. 
Oct 2010

75000 mi

US $100
Replaced CV boot on passenger side. 
Jun 2011

83000 mi

US $155
Replaced Alternator Regulator 
Aug 2011

87000 mi

US $350
EGR bypass flap (throttle). Engine compartment whined under engine load. Replaced belt, tensioner, and alternator. Was told had a bad one-way clutch in alternator. Cleaned Intake Manifold from fouling due to EGR. Engine compartment whined under engine load. Replaced belt, tensioner, and alternator. Was told had a bad one-way clutch in alternator. EGR bypass flap (throttle). 
Oct 2011

88000 mi
Rust on front quarter panel when sold. Sagging right rear suspension when sold. 
Volkswagen Passat in Romania
Feb 2010 - Jun 2011
Mar 2010

70060 mi

$1200
Engine not working in parameters. 
Volkswagen Passat in Texas, United States
- Jul 2009
Jan 2008

61000 mi

US $1500
Replace heater core 
Jul 2009

89250 mi

US $60
Replace A/C relay switch 
Volkswagen Passat in Nova Scotia, Canada
Jun 2008 - Dec 2011
Aug 2008

39680 mi
Ignition would not turn most times when proper key was inserted. You had to wiggle it and move the steering wheel to get the car to start. Over time the condition worsened. 
Volkswagen Passat in Alberta, Canada
Jun 2008 - Jun 2011
Aug 2008

49600 mi
Engine light came on. #4 glow plug. 
Mar 2010

70060 mi
Timing belt. Returned to change idler pulley bolt. Should have been done when the timing belt was done. 
Volkswagen Passat in Ontario, Canada
Mar 2012 - Jul 2018
May 2012

116440 mi

C $200
Drivers door lock 
Jan 2018

155000 mi

C $700
Replace cv joints 
Volkswagen Passat in Nebraska, United States
Sep 2011 - Jan 2022
Oct 2012

95500 mi
CV boots replaced. Air Conditioning Replacement 
Sep 2013

99000 mi
Timing belt was replaced as PM, and while changing the mechanic noticed that the water pump was starting to leak, so that was replaced as well. 
Jun 2018

135500 mi

US $400
Replaced compressor and dryer/receiver. 
Volkswagen Passat in Quebec, Canada
Mar 2008 - Jun 2017
Aug 2008

99200 mi

C $500
Front ball joints. 
Sep 2008

99820 mi

C $325
Noticed during routine maintenance that a CV joint boot was split. Investigation showed that the CV joint was worn, clicking and needed to be repaired. Part ordered, replaced in subsequent visit on 01 Oct. 
Oct 2008

101060 mi

C $500
Replacement of previously diagnosed worn CV joint and boot. 
Nov 2008

101680 mi

C $75
No. 1 cylinder glow plug had failed as verified by VAG-COM scan done at home. Glow plug replaced, repair successful. 
Apr 2009

107260 mi

C $600
Split left outer CV joint boot. 4 front ball joints clunking and needing replacement. Deferred to later to fit in budget later. Chain noise and vibration from engine. Suspect balancer shaft module/oil pump chain drive. Dealer investigating the problem with VW technical, will repair later. 
Aug 2009

112220 mi

C $3200
Replaced chain driven balance shaft module with gear driven module; 75% cost assistance from VW Canada. Other wear items replace at same time: suspension arms, left outer CV joint. Replaced suspension arms. Replaced left outer CV joint. 
May 2010

123380 mi

C $875
Steering failure. Leaking seals on steering rack, could not retain power steering fluid. Replace steering rack with remanufactured unit. Failure of right front power window mechanism. New winder mechanism on order to be installed in July. 
Jun 2011

136400 mi

C $760
Intercooler hose leaking. Replaced. 
Nov 2011

141360 mi

C $280
Replaced outer CV joint and CV joint boot. 
Dec 2011

142600 mi
Replaced rusting front fenders and trunk lid, repaired rusting left rear quarter panel. 
Oct 2012

152920 mi
Power steering leak Rust perforation on passenger door within warranty period (12 years). The body shop manager evaluated it and sent in a claim to VW, we are still awaiting VW's verdict. 
Apr 2013

157580 mi
Rust perforation on two front doors. Doors replaced and repainted under VW corrosion warranty. 
Mar 2014

165540 mi
Slightly leaking power steering hose Door lock seized. Using remote to enter car. 
Jul 2014

167480 mi

C $480
Slow loss of power steering fluid. Replaced power steering pump and hose. 
Nov 2014

171120 mi

C $216
Engine fan belt damaged. Charged 3 hours labour, the entire front of the car has to come apart for access!!! 
Feb 2015

171740 mi
Multiple areas of rust perforation: rear doors, rear quarter panels, trunk lid. Took to dealer mandated bodyshop for evaluation under the VW corrosion perforation warranty. Note: should be an option "estimate only" in what done dropdown. 
Apr 2015

171840 mi

C $40
Rust repairs, partially under VW 12-year corrosion warranty. 
Jul 2015

172560 mi

C $50
Exhaust system heat shield had come loose and was rattling. 
Dec 2015

176700 mi

C $200
CV joint boots torn and repaired. 
Apr 2016

178660 mi

C $400
Left outer CV joint replaced. Also welded exhaust joint 
Volkswagen Passat in North Carolina, United States
Apr 2010 - Jun 2011
May 2010

129000 mi
AC not effective most of the time 
Volkswagen Passat in South Carolina, United States
Mar 2010 - Jan 2015
Oct 2010

124500 mi

US $60
Coolant had been leaking for about 2 months. A pressure test at the dealership revealed that the radiator was the source of the leak. Dealership replaced the radiator and coolant. Passenger headlight bulb (daytime running light) was defective. Dealership replaced bulb while also replacing a leaking radiator. 
Jun 2011

136000 mi

US $291
Alternator pulley has an integrated clutch that had begun to whine or squeal when under load. Replaced alternator pulley with new part. 
Nov 2011

142800 mi

US $479
Crack in hose from turbo exit to intercooler. Once hot enough, crack released all pressure rendering no boost from turbo. 
Jan 2012

146000 mi

US $1003
Passenger-side CV axle replaced. The boot had torn open resulting in damage to the CV joint which made a clicking sound when accelerating and turning. Replaced both engine support mounts (not the front torque mount). Mounts had leaked fluid and showed excessive play under stress. 
Sep 2012

155000 mi
The torque converter clutch in the automatic transmission is stuck open, causing the Check Engine Light to illuminate. Mileage is suffering by about 7mpg less than normal. 
Feb 2013

160000 mi

US $1020
Exhaust Gas Recirculation system had a faulty EGR cooler, causing coolant to leak into the exhaust system and come out the tailpipe as white smoke. Replaced the EGR Cooler and related gaskets. 
Mar 2014

174000 mi

US $2032
Oil leak from engine valve cover gasket. Leak from brake system vacuum pump. 
Apr 2014

174500 mi

US $203
Air conditioning worked but would not cool air immediately. Inspection revealed AC compressor clutch not receiving exciter signal. Clutch control relay defective and replaced. 
Jan 2015

170000 mi

US $2000
Transmission fluid leaking from fluid pump. Transmission replacement recommended. 
Volkswagen Passat in Georgia, United States
Nov 2007 - Jan 2011
Jan 2007

30000 mi
brake light switch under brake pedal 
Jul 2010

100000 mi

US $2262
CV Joints worn, boots cracked, oil escaped, water/dirt entered. water pump replaced 
Volkswagen Passat in Ontario, Canada
Nov 2010 - Oct 2013
Jan 2011

59820 mi

C $200
A prior recall to change ceramic glow plugs and flash the computer caused hard cold weather starting. Coolant sensor is acting up. Goes up to about 2/3 then drops to zero and then eventually goes to normal. My dealer quoted $330 to repair. Another dealer quoted $176 and a third $128. I will wait until I get out to the dealer at $128. 
Oct 2011

63020 mi

C $281
Rubber CV boot on passenger side split which if not repaired would eventually cause CV joint to foul and eventually fail. Axle removed from car, CV joint cleaned and re-greaseed, new boot installed. Bramgate VW did an excellent job fair $ 
Jan 2013

67000 mi

C $4500
Battery is weak but still working. Car did not start when around -15C. Need to replace. Could be tricky but I will attempt it. Replacement battery from dealer is $150 or $258 if dealer installed. There is a noise like a chain rubbing coming from the balance shaft area. May need to be repaired at a steep cost. 
Oct 2013

80600 mi

C $600
Current unrepaired issues: driver mirror signal out, airbag warning light on, trip tronic not up shifting in manual mode, driver door fails to lock occasin 
Volkswagen Passat in Alberta, Canada
Dec 2010 - Feb 2011
Feb 2011

75640 mi

C $450
Internal Oil leak 
Volkswagen Passat in Maine, United States
Sep 2010 - Nov 2016
Oct 2010

86000 mi

US $700
cv joint boots split and joints dry cv joints replaced 
May 2014

115000 mi

US $350
power steering belt began to slip requiring new belt and tensioner 
Sep 2014

118000 mi
power steering belt replacement failed and required 2nd replacement 
Nov 2014

119000 mi

US $725
Failure to start, original battery depleted after 9.5 years. New battery installed. Persistent rattle from engine compartment at idle. Frozen alternator pulley found. 
Volkswagen Passat in Colorado, United States
Feb 2008 - Mar 2011
Jun 2008

50000 mi

US $550
A/C switch only worked sometimes. 

Return to top

2005 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

190-horsepower 2.8L V6 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Volkswagen Passat in Queensland, Australia
Nov 2014 - Jan 2018
May 2015

70060 mi
Removed air filter box, cleaned out crappy gasket and replaced with silicone sealent. manufactured cover for filter and fitted.Replaced relevent parts and tested water tightness. All OK. 
Feb 2016

77500 mi

A $480
Replaced faulty starter motor. 
Aug 2016

80600 mi

A $80
not changing gears smoothly and lurching occasionally when changing too. 
Sep 2016

80600 mi

A $600
Timing belt hydraulic tensioner faulty. Removed front end of car, replaced tensioner, water pump,idler pulleys,serpentine belt. Replaced front end and tested. All OK. Also replaced faulty RH headlight. 
Jan 2018

88660 mi
My drivers door suddenly won't open from inside or outside no matter what I do . I have tried all the fixits on the internet and none of them work. The only viable one seems to be removing fuse 14 but VW in their infinite wisdom have put the fuse panel where you can't get at it with the door closed.??? I cannot get the inner panel off so I am going to have to remove the front fender and unscrew the door hinges and take the door off to get at the fuse panel. Failing that I now can remove the locking mechanism completely and find out what switches are faulty. Drivers door will not open from outside or inside.Removed locking mechanism and broken inside of door handle. will replace both later . 
Volkswagen Passat in Virginia, United States
May 2010 - Aug 2010
Jun 2010

26000 mi
Door locks do not reliably work with key fob. Sometimes have to use the key to unlock. Per dealer problem reported on computer as being the driver door lock assembly. Awaiting part delivery. Out of warranty, VW will pay labor Door locks not working again. Now they say they are seeing a problem code. More parts ordered. 
Jul 2010

29000 mi

US $245
Door locks not working with key fob. New part installed by VW, now working fine. 

Return to top

2005 Volkswagen Passat 4-door

turbocharged 4-cylinder manual 2WD

Volkswagen Passat in Illinois, United States
Nov 2006 - Mar 2010
Mar 2007

42000 mi
carbon in the engine, was fixed previously by the dealer 

Return to top

2005 Volkswagen Passat 4-door

turbocharged 4-cylinder automatic AWD

Volkswagen Passat in Minnesota, United States
Mar 2008 - Jun 2009
Jun 2008

65000 mi

US $360
Check engine light was on. Reflash eliminated problem. 
Jun 2009

81000 mi
The turbo-lifter, oil pan and coolant tank caught fire. Estimate cost to fix? $10,500 

Return to top

2005 Volkswagen Passat 4-door

6-cylinder automatic 2WD

Volkswagen Passat in Colorado, United States
Jun 2011 - Feb 2013
Nov 2011

55000 mi

US $412
Fuel pump replaced, air filter replaced, oil change, having troubles going up steep inclines mechanic cleaned out filters. 
Jul 2012

65000 mi

US $260
The CV boot was torn and needed to be replaced. 

Return to top

2004.5 Volkswagen Passat

Engine not specified

Volkswagen Passat in New York, United States
Aug 2010 - Sep 2011
Sep 2010

74000 mi

US $185
code P2096 comes on constantly. Dealer never acknowledge cat under warranty. Had flex pipe repaired and told right side converter needs to be replaced. The dealer wants $ 1000. each, on ebay the pair is $499.99. 
Feb 2011

78000 mi

US $439
Catalytic converter covered under 80K rule but dealer would not honor warranty. They wanted a $1000 for each cat plus 325.00 each to install. Ordered cats from company in Canada for $239.00 each and $200.00 to install. MIL light gone. 

Return to top

2004.5 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 170hp 1.8L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Volkswagen Passat in Ontario, Canada
Mar 2008 - Feb 2018
Aug 2008

29760 mi

C $4
Plastic pin that holds glass to RR window regulator failed, I purchased pin at dealer and replaced it myself using information available on the internet for this common VW Passat window problem. 
Sep 2009

36580 mi

C $46
Engine temperature sensor failed, no drivability issues, but temp gauge on dash was showing erratic readings. Apparently a common problem, replaced old sensor myself in approximately 1 hour. 
Jul 2010

45880 mi
CEL came on, mechanic found 2 minor codes that showed intermittant and very minor leaks in EVAP system. Codes cleared, no drivability problems and CEL has not come back on. 
Nov 2010

48980 mi

C $352
Passenger side CV Joint boot failed, had both the passenger and driver side replaced at my mechanic. 
Jun 2012

61380 mi

C $530
Diverter valve, engine speed sensor and solinoid related to turbocharger needed replacement to clear EPC light on dashboard. 
Jan 2013

65720 mi

C $25
Windshield washer pump leaking. Replace pump and rubber grommet to resevoir. Easy DIY job. 
Feb 2013

66420 mi

C $40
Coolant expansion tank - sensor within that reports on fluid level in tank was failing & sending error message to driver. Not leaking. Replaced expansion tank myself, no other issues. 
Jan 2014

67620 mi

C $160
Multi function turn signal switch no longer allowed the high beams to be turned on. Ordered parts and special 12mm triple square socket to allow self repair. 
May 2014

76880 mi

C $50
cam chain tensioner gasket had a slow leak. Repaired myself. 
Aug 2014

79980 mi
RR Window retainer pin fell out from people slamming door closed too often. Replaced pin, repair completed with no need to purchase parts. 
Nov 2014

81840 mi

C $153
Drives side CV boot torn at hub. Mechanic replaced. 
Dec 2014

83080 mi

C $202
exhaust flex joint needed replacement, original still intact but showing need of attention. 
Mar 2015

84940 mi

C $416
Engine Crank Position Sensor failed while car was out of town. VW of Sudbury Ontario did the diagnosis and repairs. 
May 2015

86800 mi

C $158
Passenger side CV joint rubber boot failed, too much wear to rebuild, replaced axle complete. 
Jun 2015

88040 mi

C $25
HVAC system drain for AC condensate was plugged and caused water to leak onto floor of passenger side. Removed drain, removed debris plugging the drain hole, cleaned & dried carpets. Repaired rusted hole on rear floor area. 
Nov 2015

92380 mi

C $467
Coolant Flange, Temperature sensor, flush cooling system. 
Jan 2016

77900 mi

C $30
Low beam Headlight bulb, H7 
Jun 2016

97340 mi

C $251
Intermittent failure to start when engine hot. Diagnosis was failing cam position sensor. Fixed at my independent German car mechanic. 
Sep 2016

99820 mi

C $156
Flex pipe replaced. 
Jun 2017

106020 mi

C $95
Secondary Air Injection Pump replaced, ordered from ebay instead of paying $400-600 CAD for OEM part. 
Aug 2017

110360 mi

C $655
Fuel pump replaced. Car had intermittent drivability issues, stalling, longer cranking time. 
Dec 2017

114700 mi

C $290
Rear brake pads, rotors and LR caliper 

Return to top

2004.5 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 170hp 1.8L I4 5-speed manual AWD

Volkswagen Passat in Colorado, United States
Aug 2013 - Jul 2014
Feb 2014

81500 mi

US $2100
Replaced clutch because it was beginning to slip 
Volkswagen Passat in Massachusetts, United States
Sep 2008 - Apr 2018
Jan 2008

34781 mi
Fuel pump replaced (warranty repair) 
Feb 2008

34920 mi

US $97
Fuel (EVAP) system valve replaced 
Jul 2008

38941 mi
Warranty pollen filter / sunroof service 
Sep 2009

49556 mi

US $24
Coil pack (ignition coil) replacement 
Nov 2009

51314 mi

US $16
Belly pan mounting hardware replacement 
Jan 2010

53000 mi

US $10
Right front halogen headlight bulb. 
Feb 2010

53000 mi

US $60
Oil leak, valve cover gasket and cam chain tensioner seals.  Very minor water intrusion at rear liftgate seal resulted in jam of release mechanism, malfunction of license plate light. Replaced release mechanism and light. 
Jul 2010

58000 mi

US $120
CV joint boot completely separated into two parts without obvious road hazard damage. Routine replacement.  
Nov 2010

60500 mi

US $13
Left low beam (daytime running light) headlight bulb replaced. 
Oct 2011

66000 mi

US $25
Recurrence of a minor wagon problem: a roof trim strip slowly detaches, will fall off if not repaired. Factory manual recommends 3M windshield sealant to reattach. Now looks OK (very slightly crinkled), holding well one month after. 
Apr 2012

69000 mi
CV joint boot split, replaced without incident. Initial shop diagnosis of water leak incorrect (thought it was partly blocked sunroof drains), but a reasonable mistake on their part. When leak continued, I replaced seal material surrounding pollen filter myself, which solved problem. When leak continued, I replaced seal material surrounding pollen filter myself, which solved problem. 
Jun 2012

71000 mi

US $30
New leakage despite previous service: all FOUR door panel seals were degraded (common in 1998-2005 Passats). Instead of $800 to replace panels, I removed, cleaned and resealed them with silicone caulk. Problem now finally solved. 
Jul 2013

77500 mi

US $2
Pin fell out of rear window raising mechanism, window would not close. Took inside of door off, inserted new pin. I 
Aug 2013

78000 mi

US $135
Split CV joint boot replaced. 
Nov 2013

80000 mi

US $210
Flex pipe (part of exhaust piping) mesh ruptured. No noise or exhaust leak yet, but crack developing in pipe required repair. First exhaust problem in 10 years: this system is one of the more durable I've seen. 
Jan 2014

75000 mi

US $1200
Broken spring. Replaced spring and all 4 shock absorbers with Bilstein heavy duty shocks, which are an upgrade adding $400 in expense. Worth it, too. 
Jun 2014

87000 mi

US $125
Cracked intercooler. Replaced intercooler, 2 pressure sensors, associated intake hoses. Replaced oxygen sensor. 
Nov 2014

91000 mi

US $160
Inner door pull failed to open rear door. Replaced cable and lock mechanism; also installed new window lifter panel (new rubber seal) to guarantee no water leaks. Plastic flange at back of engine leaking coolant slowly. Replaced without incident. Plastic flange at back of engine leaking. Replaced without incident. 
Dec 2014

94000 mi

US $380
Failed Bilstein HD shock, less than 1 year old. Wide pothole jolted both front wheels off the ground, and the retaining ring holding on the top of the left front shock freakishly snapped. Left cap and rod attached to the shock's piston flapping around. 
May 2015

99000 mi
E-brake malfunction, required new rear brake caliper. 
Sep 2015

103000 mi

US $200
Exhaust flex pipe welded in. Similar to repair 2 years ago. 
Dec 2015

106000 mi

US $280
Thermostat partially stuck open, rendering passenger compartment heater unusable. Car warmed up normally, no CEL. Heater core flush and new thermostat fixed problem 
Aug 2016

113000 mi

US $330
2 ruptured CV joint boots, axles OK, just replaced boots. 
Dec 2016

117000 mi

US $100
Partly clogged heater core, typical for B5 Passat. Mechanic incubated core first with calcium and lime remover CLR) for 30 min, then back flushed with compressed air several times. Significant improvement. 
Nov 2017

126000 mi

US $75
Exhaust sleeve connector replaced. This is still the original exhaust system and works fine after 14 years: any repair short of replacement is a victory! 

Return to top

2004.5 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 134hp 2.0L I4 Diesel 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Volkswagen Passat in Maryland, United States
Sep 2008 - Jun 2016
Mar 2009

101000 mi

US $150
Water pump impellor shaft broke - new water pump just replaced with timing belt a week before. 
Mar 2010

117000 mi

US $150
Serpentine belt tensioner worn out - causing power steering chirp. 
Sep 2010

126000 mi

US $100
Driver's side out CV joint worn, boot torn. Rebuilt axle with new joint/boot. Engine stumbling, check engine light and "emission workshop!" warning due to faulty mass airflow sensor reading. Removed, cleaned, and reinstalled sensor. 
Dec 2010

130000 mi

US $25
Driver's side mirror glass separated from mirror. Replaced with aftermarket adhesive-backed mirror glass replacement. 
Apr 2012

136000 mi

US $1000
Failure of hydraulic lifter & worn camshaft. 

Return to top

2004.5 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

190-horsepower 2.8L V6 5-speed shiftable automatic AWD

Volkswagen Passat in Wisconsin, United States
Dec 2009 - Feb 2014
Mar 2012

80000 mi

US $2000
replaced timing belt and water pump, replaced valve cover gaskets and cam tensioner seals. replaced 2 engine mounts. 

Return to top

2004.5 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 170hp 1.8L I4 5-speed manual AWD

Volkswagen Passat in New Brunswick, Canada
Nov 2014 - Dec 2017
Dec 2014

187240 mi
Bought vehicle with rough running engine. Previous owner was told no compression on one cylinder, but I didn't suspect that. The problem was several vacuum leaks so a complete pcv replacement system is on order along with new vacuum hoses. 
Mar 2015

187860 mi

C $325
The newly purchased vehicle had a flashing CEL. It turns out there were PCV hoses that were split. These were replaced and that corrected the flashing CEL. There is still a CEL which might indicate a faulty O2 sensor 
Sep 2015

191580 mi

C $10
Had lower O2 sensor replaced Replaced down pipe and flex joint. Had to replace vacuum lines. 
Jun 2016

197780 mi

C $450
Coolant leak. Replaced overflow tank. 
Oct 2016

200260 mi

C $438
Park brake cable needed replacing. 
Oct 2017

203360 mi

C $14
oil dipstick needed replacing 
Volkswagen Passat in British Columbia, Canada
Mar 2004 - Jun 2022
Jul 2004

1550 mi
Trim moldings all replaced under warranty do to chrome turning a milky opague color. 
Nov 2013

85560 mi

C $449
Boot replacement, 
Sep 2014

93000 mi

C $400
Outside passenger side cv boot replacement 
May 2018

124620 mi

C $612
Broken rear coil spring, spring cost for 2 springs $160cdn, repair and replace $322, alignment $128. 

Return to top

See TrueDelta's information for all Sedans and Wagons.
See TrueDelta's information for all Volkswagen models.

2005 Volkswagen Passat Repair Histories

See our lemon odds and nada odds page to see vehicles with no repairs or vehicles with more than three repairs. To see how frequently 2005 Volkswagen Passat problems occur, check out our car reliability stats.