Volkswagen Passat Volkswagen Passat

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

Join Us

Volkswagen Passat repairs by problem area

Engine (43%)

Transmission and Drivetrain (9%)

Brakes and Traction Control (5%)

Suspension and Steering (9%)

Electrical and Air Conditioning (22%)

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

Other (6%)

Select a problem area

Show all problems

Need advice about a specific Volkswagen Passat problem?

Chart based on 4194 repairs.
See TSBs and recalls for the Volkswagen Passat.

Volkswagen Passat brake repair cost distribution

$2500+ (1%)

$1000 - $2499 (13%)

$500 - $999 (18%)

$100 - $499 (34%)

< $100 (33%)

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

Chart based on 215 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance.

2017 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 170hp 1.8L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

70 mi Rotors were warped from the factory and needed all four replaced. 

Return to top

2015 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 170hp 1.8L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

9700 mi Squeaking sound from left tyre audible at low speeds. Caliper was digging into the rotor and caused minor damage and caused squeaking. After repair, some noise gone, but still remains. Will take it back. 
11300 mi Took the car to another dealer. For the squeaking sound, they tightened wheel nuts claiming the previous dealership didn't do it correctly. The problem re-appeared as soon as the car left this 2nd dealership. 

Return to top

2014 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 170hp 1.8L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

5000 mi Traction control light illuminated, intermittently, when making right turns. Dealer could not reproduce problem. Dealer inspected, cleaned, and reinstalled speed sensors. Seems to have worked, problem gone. 
74000 mi

US $500
Brake pads and rotors 

Return to top

2014 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 170hp 1.8L I4 5-speed manual FWD

87000 mi

US $300
Replaced pads and rotors, front brakes. Did work myself 

Return to top

2014 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

170-horsepower 2.5L I5 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

55000 mi

US $200
Brakes replaced 

Return to top

2013 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 140hp 2.0L I4 Diesel 6-speed manual FWD

100000 mi

US $400
replace front brake pads 

Return to top

2013 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 140hp 2.0L I4 Diesel 6-speed automated manual FWD

8300 mi Traction control seems to grab occasionally when slowing down from high speed, makes grinding noise at least. 
20000 mi Bad plunger on clutch master cylinder. 
14200 mi Faulty ABS sensor causing stability control fault messages. ABS sensor was replaced under warranty 

Return to top

2013 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

170-horsepower 2.5L I5 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

The brake pedal sticks to the floor after applied. Dealer said there was a leak in main cylinder. They replaced it but problem still exist. It is about go in the shop for 3rd time. 
124000 mi

US $1000
REPLACE ALL FOUR BRAKES / ROTORS 
103000 mi

US $1000
Parking brake adjustment 

Return to top

2012 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

170-horsepower 2.5L I5 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

85000 mi

US $200
New front pads, rotor refinish 
68000 mi

US $180
Problem: ABS / Traction Control / Tire Pressure / Airbag sensors illuminate yellow with chime. Solution: Wheel speed sensor replaced. Problem resolved. 
79000 mi

US $485
Replaced brake lining and rotors 

Return to top

2010 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 200hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

130820 mi

C $1400
Seized driver's side rear caliper 

Return to top

2010 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 200hp 2.0L I4 6-speed automated manual FWD

103000 mi

US $475
Replaced rear brakes on dealer recommendation. 40,000 miles since last replacement. 
104000 mi

US $850
Master cylinder repacement 
109496 mi

US $334
Brake pads/rotors replacement 

Return to top

2010 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 200hp 2.0L I4 6-speed automated manual FWD

66960 mi

C $250
front and rear pads and rotors replaced 
87420 mi Burning smell from front drivers side wheel which was also very hot to the touch. Replaced brake caliper that was stuck. 
95480 mi

C $5
Partially siezed brake slide pin (dust cap had fallen off) re-greased pins and reassembled. Works fine 

Return to top

2009 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 200hp 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

27000 mi Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) module failed. 
89280 mi

C $140
parking brake switch indicated fault - dealer indicated this was a known high occurrence item. 

Return to top

2009 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 200hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

36880 mi faulty sensor replaced 

Return to top

2009 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 200hp 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

31300 mi

US $1200
Brake booster had a vacuum leak and needed to be replaced. 
84000 mi

US $45
Electronic Parking Brake Switch was not releasing and giving fault. Replaced as research showed VW had updated. Working as should now. 

Return to top

2008 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 200hp 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

16700 mi Parking brake (actuated by electronic dash button, not a direct mechanical linkage) would not reliably disengage [or engage] leaving us concerned about using it for fear of getting stranded. Dash button replaced by dealer under warrantee. 
80000 mi

US $700
Vacuum pump for braking system failed and was leaking engine oil. 
88000 mi

US $692
Replaced brake booster vacuum line: $278 
29000 mi Parking brake fault. Brake would only release after several attempts. Dealer cleared fault and reset logic. Parking brake fault. Bad parking brake module diagnosed. New module ordered. 
26300 mi electronic parking brake would not engage replace mechanical brake. 
85300 mi

US $1289
Also replaced brake booster vacuum line. 

Return to top

2008 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 200hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

252000 mi

US $600
Electronic parking brake malfunction. Wouldn't release parking brake. Replaced switch and passenger rear parking brake motor. 
122000 mi

US $1200
Electronic parking brake motor died and seized on rear brake. Also ripped up brakes and rotors. All needed to be replaced 
120000 mi

US $300
Parking brake motor stripped drive gear. Needed to replace entire pass. side caliper. 
132000 mi

US $200
The parking brake motor drive gear was stripped. Replaced caliper and motor under warranty. 

Return to top

2008 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 200hp 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

42000 mi

US $250
Steering column lock needed to be replaced 
82000 mi Parking brake not engaging properly after rear brake replacement. 
72000 mi

US $800
Steering column lock fault. Replaced lock assembly. 
47300 mi

US $225
car in foor rear brakes. found electonic parking brake would not release shop replaced rotor electric parking brake release motor. Now problem has returned. Will take to dealer. 
50000 mi electronic parking brake not releasing was told repair would cost $300/1000 and $130. diagnostic fee. Not using parking brake. 
50000 mi

US $50
parking brake still not right after replacing switch.Traded car in for a new vw 2015 passat S 
229500 mi

US $40
Brake caliper serviced 
58500 mi

US $800
brake boost had vacuum leak 

Return to top

2008 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

280-horsepower 3.6L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

48000 mi Replaced speed sensor. 
60400 mi

US $45
Replaced electric parking brake switch.. 

Return to top

2007 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 200hp 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

49999 mi update - no cost issues at all - performed oil change and standard service (at dealers) - Warranty replacement of Parking Brake switch plus warranty replacement of rear lift gate module. Still have original tires and original brakes. 
90000 mi

US $455
LR Parking brake motor burned out. Dealer wants $860 for repair. Local garage did it for $455. Dealer wanted $475 for the part alone! 
29140 mi

$2000
Abs pump replaced 
145000 mi

US $1500
LR electric parking brake motor failed, luckily in the non-activated position. Car could roll freely, but produced multiple warning lights and a warning chime over 3mph. Replaced both parking brake motors as a precaution, which is a dealer-only new part. 
104000 mi

US $50
EPB emergency parking brake switch failed. car was immobilized at home in garage w/brake fully engaged, no way to over ride or reset. ordered epb dashswitch, replaced it, problem was solved.  
90000 mi ABS Warning light came on. Issue was repaired as followup to a recall previously performed. 
13459 mi Recall P7 (VW) Correction: Install brake vacuum line 

Return to top

2007 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 170hp 2.0L I4 Diesel 6-speed automated manual FWD

76000 mi

£250
Electronic parking brake stuck on. Calipers seized. 

Return to top

2007 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 140hp 2.0L I4 Diesel 6-speed automated manual FWD

78740 mi

C $200
parking brake motor seized 

Return to top

2007 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

280-horsepower 3.6L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

61300 mi

US $129
Parking brake fault light. Required software update. 
62000 mi Brake light, parking brake light, ESP, ASL lights came on. Also wouldn't shift out of 3rd gear. 
63000 mi

US $100
Last problem re-occurred after 1 week. Multiple warning lights. VW suggested replacing ABS but not sure that's the problem. So far OK after a week and a half. 
119200 mi

US $700
Right Rear Caliper Exploded. I was able to drive to the dealership using my brakes minimally. 
120000 mi

US $1500
paid 1500 to replace brake controller and rewire the wires from right rear caliper to brake controller which was leaking brake fluid *into* the brake controller 
137000 mi

US $770
Left Rear Caliper failed, and was then replaced. 

Return to top

2007 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

280-horsepower 3.6L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

34000 mi Electronic parking brake would not disengage, rendering car undrivable. Switch replaced under warranty. Took 3 days to get part.  
15500 mi Received message "Parking brake fault." Took it in. Replaced parking brake switch under warranty. 

Return to top

2007 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

250-horsepower 3.2L V6 6-speed automated manual AWD

21080 mi Electronic handbrake failure. 

Return to top

2007 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 200hp 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

2000 mi Brake pedal goes to floor with moderate pedal pressure. 
23000 mi Parking brake switch would not operate. Malfunction light on dash turned on. Bad parking brake switch was replaced under warranty.  
79360 mi

C $185
Emergency brake seized 
52000 mi

US $80
Electronic Parking Brake failed, car not drivable. Car electronic full reset and reflash fixed it, but problem returned a week later. Next fix attempt is to replace EBP module (several hundred $). 
94900 mi

US $62
Ebrake switch malfunction 
82700 mi

US $1800
Master Cylinder went out. 

Return to top

2007 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 200hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

15000 mi parking brake will not disengage replaced switch for parking brake 
41000 mi Dashboard switch for electric parking / emergency brake failed and needed replacement 
53000 mi

US $185
Electronic parking brake malfunction light and warning tone came on. Took to dealer, who diagnosed a malfunctioning parking brake motor/actuator. Dealer replaced with manufacturer assistance of 80 percent of repair cost. 
31000 mi Park brake would not release. Park brake ingauge/release actuator motor replaced on passenger side. 
33480 mi Electronic parking brake failure, driver side actuator replaced. 
27000 mi Faulty parking brake switch. Dealer diagnosed and repaired under warranty. I dropped off car before work, was ready at lunch 

Return to top

2007 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 140hp 2.0L I4 Diesel 6-speed automated manual FWD

53140 mi Electric Park Brakes fails often. Software Updated. 
57040 mi Electric parking brake failed. Required computer reset. 

Return to top

2007 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

280-horsepower 3.6L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

27000 mi Replaced defective ABS unit. Replaced faulty brake pressure sensor 1. 

Return to top

2006 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 200hp 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

103000 mi

US $470
parking brake motor, right side rear failed..complete caliper relacement performed. 
31000 mi Electronic parking brake would not disengage after setting the brake. Required a battery disconnect to release brake. New switch was installed. 
35000 mi Electronic Parking Brake malfunctioning 
39680 mi Electronic parking brake sensor needed replacing.  
76800 mi

US $100
The electronic parking brake would work intermittently saying "Parking Brake Fault, contact..." Took it in, they updated the computer and installed a newer system that doesn't have the problem. 
108500 mi

US $400
ABS, parking brake fault, ESP warning lights all came on at the same time 
134600 mi

US $2300
All brake and abs lights on. Replaced multiple parts over 3 week period. Kept recommending more work even though the problem was not isolated or corrected 
141000 mi

US $1100
continued brake issues from previous repair trips. Once again, dealer charged 1100 (more actually) and was unable to repair. Again, dealer kept recommending more work and was unwilling to stop charging even though the work was unneeded. 
144000 mi

US $2700
Abs controller was defective. Controller was replaced. Part cost $1800. 
11000 mi The Passat has an electric parking brake. The electric switch on the dash malfunctioned. The parking brake system would cycle on/off about once a week. The dealership diagnosed the switch itself with a malfunction. The switch was replaced, but the trim ar 
105800 mi

US $430
The Electronic Parking brake would not release 
142000 mi

US $578
Parking Brake Fault - dash alarm going off over 5mph. Replaced rear parking brake motor with salvage part (new part would have been over $400 just for the part). Parking Brake Fault - dash alarm going off over 5mph. Replaced rear parking brake motor with salvage part (new part would have been over $400 just for the part). Paid $200 for used parts. 
12000 mi electronic parking brake malfunctioned - would not activate, and inoperable parking brake message appeared on MultiFunction Display. repaired under warranty 
42000 mi

US $600
electronic parking brake repaired 
3000 mi VW P7 recall 
109300 mi

C $140
The front brake pads worn excessively on the inside. The caliper pins were seizing up. Shop put new pads and freed up the pins. 
111600 mi

C $945
Left parking brake motor needed to be replaced. We had the right one replaced 2 years ago under warranty. This one cost us 545.00 just for the part 100.00 for the diagnostic and then labor and taxes. 
122760 mi

C $300
Started doing my own repairs using VCDS software. No more $95/hr shop fees for me. Just changed rear pads and tried to get parking brakes to work again. No luck. This car has been super reliable so far and still runs & drives like new. 

Return to top

2006 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 200hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

76000 mi

US $60
Replaced electronic parking brake switch. 
84600 mi Electronic parking brake motor, passgr side, seized up, locking rear wheel. Removed motor, cleaned and lubricated drive mechanism - unit is working OK for now. Will probably need to replace motor eventually. 

Return to top

2006 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 140hp 2.0L I4 Diesel 6-speed manual FWD

47200 mi Auto parking-brake fault; lights flashing on dash. Vehicle driven (audible warning constant)to local dealer for diagnosis. Nearside rear caliper failure evident - not covered on my extended warranty (Warranty Direct uk) as I later discoverd 
52200 mi Electronic parking brake fault (warning lights/beeping) appeared on dashboard. Replaced switch (as brakes were functioning ok) but still fault showing; will reset all codes when laptop available. 
52300 mi Vehicle taken to my usual repair dealer who reported both rear brake motors (e-parking brake) faulty; one replaced under VW parts warranty (only 15 months/6K miles covered)but other motor not covered - awaiting decision from ext warranty. 

Return to top

2006 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

280-horsepower 3.6L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

87300 mi

US $600
Replaced parking brake electro-mechanical caliper which would not disengage, and dash switch 
86611 mi

US $70
electronic parking brake locked car up - had to be towed. had to pay towing after 5 miles. Dealer had to fix as I just got the car that day.  electronic parking break locked car up - had to be towed. had to pay towing after 5 miles. Dealer had to fix as I just got the car that day. 
85000 mi

US $570
Brakes rear replace pads and service, also tune up done 

Return to top

2005 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 170hp 1.8L I4 5-speed manual AWD

101000 mi

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

Return to top

2005 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

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

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. 
158000 mi

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

Return to top

2005 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

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

174000 mi

US $2032
Leak from brake system vacuum pump. 
30000 mi brake light switch under brake pedal 

Return to top

2004.5 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

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

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

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

Return to top

2004.5 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 170hp 1.8L I4 5-speed manual AWD

200260 mi

C $438
Park brake cable needed replacing. 

Return to top

2004 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

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

140000 mi

US $526
Brake light on. Replaced Brake pads and hoses. 

Return to top

2004 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

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

778 mi Replaced brake rotors due to warping and vibration. Replaced brake switch which caused reverse lights and right side mirror to activate. 

Return to top

2004 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

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

120000 mi

US $250
Replaced brake pads & rotors, all 4 wheels due to pulsation when stopping. While doing this repair, found severely cracked front brake hoses, replaced with stainless hoses, changed brake fluid, pressure bled system.. 
78000 mi

US $850
ESP light came on display.  
46000 mi

US $500
 

Return to top

2004 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 170hp 1.8L I4 5-speed manual FWD

130000 mi

US $80
Right rear caliper was leaking. Replaced caliper. 

Return to top

2004 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

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

33063 mi Replacement brake light switch failed - replaced again under warranty 
177500 mi

US $130
Right rear brake caliper was stuck. I had to replace the brake bracket. 

Return to top

2004 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

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

55000 mi

US $370
Brakes became ineffective without pumping of pedal multiple times. Master cylinder failed. 
51000 mi

US $250
multiple times multiple shops denied there was a braking problem. Caused accident. Will not do hard braking, as if grease were on rotors. Pads & rotors like new, but repl anyway. Port Valve, then ABS replaced. Each helped some.  Cleaned & properly reinstalled Lt rear speed sensor. I was told that sometime in the past, the rear wheel was removed, and in the process, pulled loose the speed sensor. 
182000 mi

US $570
Replaced master cylinder, Replaced brake hose (3U0611707), and front brake lines Replaced Brake Fluid 

Return to top

2003 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

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

54500 mi Brake light switch recall 

Return to top

2003 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 170hp 1.8L I4 5-speed manual FWD

158100 mi

$100
Front pads and rotors replaced 
121060 mi

C $200
Broken caliper 
132060 mi

C $1200
brake lines cracked, replaced 
134540 mi Brake lines replaced by Dealer in Dec 2013 were found to be bubbled and almost ruptured by independent shop. Car returned to dealer, where they were replaced without question. 
140120 mi

C $200
broken brake calliper, some fluid leak 

Return to top

2003 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

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

200000 mi

US $300
Changed brake fluid. 

Return to top

2003 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

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

66000 mi

US $100
ABS light came on - switch replaced ($4.00) part. Car is starting hard in winter and will be checked again. 
156700 mi

US $700
Rear calipers were frozen and were replaced as were the rotors and pads. 
126000 mi

US $130
Brake caliper bolts needed to be replaced due to binding. 

Return to top

2003 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

130000 mi Seized rear left caliper , was disassembled, exercised, lubricated and seems ok. May chance caliper and will change brake fluid before winter . , 

Return to top

2003 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

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

165000 mi

US $400
New rotors 
218000 mi

US $320
ABS warning light on. ABS module may be damaged. Vehicle i still not repaired. 
231000 mi ABS never fixed 
74000 mi The ABS module was out. I could have driven without ABS, but it beeped almost randomly all the time. Estimate near $1000 to repair a car worth less than $1000. 

Return to top

2003 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 170hp 1.8L I4 5-speed manual FWD

165000 mi

US $210
Mysteriously, there was a small hole in the brake fluid reservoir. It was near the top at the RH rear corner of the reservoir. Brake fluid reservoir was replaced. 
150200 mi

US $1000
4 new disks, 4 new sets of pads (done myself), new master cylinder, new left rear caliper (done by mechanic, caliper was my fault). 
195700 mi

US $130
seized caliper 
142000 mi Break backing plate was loose and making noise. Straightened out plate. 

Return to top

2003 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

270-horsepower 4.0L W8 6-speed manual AWD

116000 mi

US $500
Parking brake cable ceased. 

Return to top

2003 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

270-horsepower 4.0L W8 5-speed shiftable automatic AWD

107000 mi

US $800
Front calipers rebuilt 
144000 mi

US $500
Passenger side rear caliper seized. Replaced both rear calipers then flushed and bled brake system. 

Return to top

2003 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

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

140000 mi Leaking front brake hoses. 
11283 mi Brake booster vacuum leak. 
80012 mi

US $255
Rear break pad replacement and service. 

Return to top

2002.5 Volkswagen Passat

Engine not specified

160000 mi

US $610
Replaced rear pads and rotors. Replaced brake fluid reservoir which had crack due to age. 

Return to top

2002 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

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

94000 mi ABS light started coming on when sold. 

Return to top

2002 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 170hp 1.8L I4 5-speed manual FWD

110300 mi

US $1050
Frozen rear calipers, replaced both rear calipers with new. 

Return to top

2002 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

270-horsepower 4.0L W8 5-speed shiftable automatic AWD

109000 mi

US $679
After a 106,000 mile full brake service including fluid drain/replacement and braided hose replacement, the brake pedal intermittently pulsated at slow brake speed. ABS light engaged followed by Check Engine icon. All 4 actuators replaced. 
110000 mi

US $1300
After previous replacement of ABS accuators at each wheel, ABS problem light again came on. ABS modulator had to be replaced. 

Return to top

2002 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

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

115811 mi

US $250
Replaced rear brake pads, rotors 
127029 mi

US $1300
Car needed major repairs to pass PA inspection: front brake pads and rotors, left side tie rod, 4 new tires, buff headlights, replace rear left tailight ass'y, etc. 

Return to top

2002 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

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

73000 mi

US $26
Check ABS light came on but no problems were detected. 

Return to top

2002 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

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

76000 mi

US $849
Brake sensor replaced. 
76841 mi

US $895
New brake booster, vacuum pump, brake line, pressure sensor; brake lines bled; lower brake bulbs replaced; ignition coils (4) replaced under recall  
82000 mi Brake booster vacuum pump replaced under warranty (was replaced less than 12 months ago). 
186000 mi ABS unit went bad. Not a real safety concern, so will get unit refurbished and re-installed at a later time. 
90887 mi

C $54
During scheduled service inspection turned up requirement for Left and Right outer CV boots and possibly CV joints. Repair estimate given. 
110720 mi

C $137
Diagnosis and repair - brake light on. Wire on right front brake pad rubbed through, left was also rubbing, both were repaired. 
122020 mi

C $73
Brake, ABS and Traction lights all came on, flashing or steady, sporadically. Went for diagnosis - brake inspection done (and reg.maint.) and pads, calipers replaced, rotors refinished and fluid topped - next evening lights came back on. Previous repair did not eliminate warning lights - returned for further diagnosis - electrical issue - between systems and warning light triggers - repair not attempted as shop did not have access to necessary electrical diagrams. Need dealr Diagnostic inspection for brake fault light, etc not clearing.DTC's GFF, Power and Ground, fuses, power and ground at ABS module - all OK. Requires ABS control module. Quote: 1980.00(VW) or used 650.00 (90 day warranty) Repair not done:$$ 
136400 mi

C $262
ABS Control Module still needs to be replaced 

Return to top

2002 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 170hp 1.8L I4 5-speed manual FWD

152000 mi

US $200
ABS module failed, module was removed and sent out for repair as a new one would cost 1200 vs 200 
155000 mi

US $100
Brake line failed and was leaking fluid into the wheel 
170000 mi

US $488
repair emergency brake caliper 
109000 mi

US $500
Rear caliper failed, leaking fluid. Both Rear Calipers replaced 
111000 mi

US $250
Parking brake cable failed and was replaced 

Return to top

2002 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

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

95000 mi

US $1200
Faulty ABS sensor 

Return to top

2002 Volkswagen Passat 4-door

6-cylinder automatic AWD

175000 mi

US $410
needed new rotors and brake pads on back and also needed 2 calipers on both back tires 

Return to top

2001.5 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 170hp 1.8L I4 5-speed manual FWD

141200 mi

US $1500
abs computer needed to be rebuilt 
106000 mi

US $2300
Front brake lines cracked and leaking. Replaced. 

Return to top

2001.5 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 170hp 1.8L I4 5-speed manual FWD

222000 mi

US $100
Rear caliper would not engage parking brake 
77000 mi

US $600
Power brake vacuum line replaced. 

Return to top

2001.5 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

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

92969 mi

C $987
Front and rear brake replacement. ASR light comes on highway off ramps only (dry pavement) - found to be caused by one front tire (of 4 brand new ones) being smaller than the other 3. Oil change. Smell still present. Oxygen sensors needed. 

Return to top

2001 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 150hp 1.8L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

113000 mi

US $175
ABS control module failed. Removed module, sent it out for repair. Re-installed. 
58200 mi

US $98
ABS control module -- removed myself, sent out for resoldering of bond wires (well-known Bosch 5.3 module problem), replaced myself. 

Return to top

2001 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 150hp 1.8L I4 5-speed manual FWD

97000 mi

US $730
ABS sensor unit went kaput 
109000 mi

US $350
replaced corroded brake hoses to comply with state inspection 

Return to top

2001 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

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

170500 mi

C $1300
replaces all pads, rotors and 3 of 4 calipers 
157780 mi

C $750
abs system 
122500 mi

US $1400
Front brake lines were rotting and needed replacement 

Return to top

2001 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 150hp 1.8L I4 5-speed manual FWD

83000 mi

US $720
ABS module replaced. 
95000 mi

US $627
Brake lines cracked. 

Return to top

2001 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

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

136000 mi

US $350
Replaced original front pads and rotors, finally worn enough to activate the pad light. Replaced rear pads and rotors as well. 

Return to top

2000 Volkswagen Passat

Engine not specified

63000 mi

US $1000
Replace ABS controller. Technically this is the Brakes system, but I believe it is a computer or computer service. 

Return to top

2000 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 150hp 1.8L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

161000 mi

US $200
ABS Module error. Removed module and sent out for repair. Will install in September. 

Return to top

2000 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

turbocharged 150hp 1.8L I4 5-speed manual FWD

91000 mi

£860
Rear brake caliper seized ON, decided to get new calipers, pipes, cables, discs for rear. 
102000 mi

£110
front brake hoses cracking - replaced 

Return to top

2000 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

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

130000 mi

US $115
Brake Fault - ABS failure. I used VwVortex as source for ordering a re-built AB electronic module. Will install tonight. Update results on the next survey After installing ABS, I took it to be programmed to my local indie shop. They claim they programmed it successfully yet the fault lights and indicators all remain as before. The indie shop reports an error 65535 with J217 code 
137700 mi ABS repaired successfully after replacement ordered. My beef is that BBA-REMAN sent me a defective part which i paid $115 to an indie shop to program. So i'm out the $115 with no help or acknowledgement of their failure by BBA-REMAN pissed 
117180 mi

C $1400
Front brake flexible lines out to wheels were cracked -- replaced. 
126480 mi

C $900
ABS electronic control unit failed and was replaced. 
146100 mi

C $2500
Seized left rear brake caliper and parking brake cable. Both rear calipers and parking brake cables replaced. 
130500 mi

US $1200
ABS Control unit replaced. NJ re-inspection. 

Return to top

2000 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

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

127100 mi

C $145
Brake warning light flashing. ABS light on. Scan showed intermitant problem between ABS contoler and dash connections.  

Return to top

2000 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Wagon

190-horsepower 2.8L V6 5-speed manual FWD

143220 mi

C $1500
Parking brake failed on hill.  

Return to top

2000 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 150hp 1.8L I4 5-speed manual FWD

121000 mi

US $177
The Bosch ABS module developed a problem indicated by warning lights and error codes. I removed the module and sent it out to http://www.modulemaster.com for repair. Car driveable without module. Received repaired module back after 1 week and reinstalled. 
140000 mi

US $450
Frozen caliper replaced 
118000 mi

US $250
Replace brake hoses front and rear, bleed brakes Replace rear rotors, pads, and calipers, both sides 
119000 mi

US $250
Replace front rotors and pads, passenger side caliper 

Return to top

2000 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

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

126000 mi

US $744
ABS control not responding. Needs a new one to install. Cost to fix unrepaired problems about $2,800. 

Return to top

2000 Volkswagen Passat 4dr Sedan

190-horsepower 2.8L V6 5-speed manual FWD

72000 mi

US $100
Failed abs controller 

Return to top

2000 Volkswagen Passat 4-door

turbocharged 4-cylinder manual 2WD

101000 mi ABS module and pump need to be replaced 

Return to top

1999 Volkswagen Passat

Engine not specified

218000 mi

US $300
rear break calipers were locked up and needed to be replaced. 
163000 mi

US $500
brake sensor computer 

Return to top

1999 Volkswagen Passat 4-door

turbocharged 4-cylinder manual 2WD

149000 mi

US $170
ABS sensor broken; problem returned after about 3 weeks 
178000 mi The ABS sometimes would randomly fire and then turn off for the rest of the trip, bad sensor; lived with until sold car. 

Return to top

1999 Volkswagen Passat 4-door

6-cylinder manual 2WD

179000 mi seized rotor 
126000 mi The ABS control unit failed late last year, which is apparently not uncommon in this car. 

Return to top

1999 Volkswagen Passat 4-door

6-cylinder automatic 2WD

121400 mi

US $900
ABS module replaced 
105000 mi

US $118
ABS warning light on with audible alarm, brake light/oil pressure light flashing, braking characteristics different. Numerous reports of same problem on VWVortex pointing to Electronic Brake Control Module. Removed module, sent for rebuild. Electronic Brake Control Module was recieved after rebuild and installed. Repair successful! 

Return to top

1999 Volkswagen Passat 4-door

4-cylinder manual 2WD

133920 mi One of the Flexible Brake Hose has snapped away 

Return to top

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

Volkswagen Passat Brake Problems

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 Volkswagen Passat problems occur, check out our car reliability stats.