2021 Volkswagen Passat

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat is a mid-size sedan known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and user-friendly technology. The sole engine option for 2021 is a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 producing 174 horsepower and 206 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. What people like about the Passat is its roomy cabin, smooth ride, and simple controls. Common complaints often center around the lack of available options compared to competitors and a somewhat dated interior design.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (TSI)

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, requiring more frequent oil top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms include the low oil warning light illuminating and a noticeable decrease in oil level on the dipstick.
  • Solution: There is not a known fix, but some owners have reported that using a heavier weight of oil may help the issue, however, you should check with the manufacturer before using something other than the recommended weight oil.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: N/A
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing harsh shifting or jerking motions when the transmission shifts between gears, especially at lower speeds.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update to the transmission control module (TCM) can resolve the issue. In more severe cases, replacement of the valve body or a complete transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (Software Update) - $3,000+ (Transmission Rebuild/Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may freeze, become unresponsive, or crash intermittently. This can affect navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Often, a software update to the infotainment system resolves the issue. In some cases, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update under warranty) - $800+ (Infotainment Unit Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions (e.g., Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring)
  • Description/Symptoms: The parking sensors or blind spot monitoring system may malfunction, providing false alerts or failing to detect objects.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the faulty sensor is required. The faulty sensor needs to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rattling noises emanating from the dashboard, door panels, or rear deck.
  • Solution: Locating and addressing the source of the rattle may involve tightening loose components, adding sound-deadening material, or replacing damaged parts.

  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ depending on the severity and location

  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat presents a mix of potential issues. While the issues with the 2.0L TSI engine seem to mostly revolve around excessive oil consumption, the transmission can be more serious with some owners experiencing harsh shifting or jerking. Electrial glitches with the infotainment and sensors can also occur. Interior rattling is a common annoyance. The severity and cost of repairs can vary significantly, making it essential to have a pre-purchase inspection and address any potential issues promptly.