EXPERT IN AUTO PARTS
20 November 2025 (updated) Table of Contents
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Article number: 600 0017 00
£360.00price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
BOSCH Injector Nozzle
Common Rail (CR), with seal ring
Article number: 0 986 435 360
£156.49£625.96 / Price per 4 items
price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
Article number: 600 0016 00
£301.00price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
Article number: GS55545M4
£52.49
£10.50
for 1 litre
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
DELPHI Air conditioning compressor
6SE14, PAG 46, with PAG compressor oil
Article number: TSP0155997
£183.49price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
The DSG-gearbox of the VW Passat shows considerable weaknesses in various engine versions such as the 1.4 TSI 150 PS, 2.0 TDI 190 PS and 1.5 TSI DSG. These automatic transmission problems manifest themselves in jerky gear changes, delayed gear changes and complete transmission failures. Vehicles with a high mileage of 80,000 km or more are particularly affected, with a second wave of problems occurring between 150,000-200,000 km. The symptoms range from slight jerking when starting off to complete gearbox damage that makes the vehicle undriveable.
Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity of the gearbox. The sensitive VW Passat DSG control units require an oil change with special DSG oil and regular software updates every 40,000 km. A professional diagnosis with VAG-COM can detect problems at an early stage before costly repairs become necessary. Preventive measures such as gentle starting and avoiding stop-and-go traffic can significantly extend the service life.
The TSI-engines of the VW Passat, in particular the 1.8 TSI 179 PS, 2.0 TSI 190 PS and 2.0 TSI 220 PS, suffer from premature turbocharger wear. These weak points are manifested by a loss of power, increased oil consumption and characteristic bluish smoke from the exhaust. The first signs often appear between 80,000-120,000 km, while serious defects usually occur between 130,000-180,000 km. The 2.0 TSI 280 PS in particular shows earlier signs of wear due to its high output. The reliability of turbochargers is further impaired by aggressive driving and irregular maintenance.
A systematic check is essential for the early detection of turbocharger problems. The precise VW Passat turbocharger systems require high-quality engine oil with correct viscosity values and change intervals of maximum 15,000 km. A professional inspection should regularly check the intercooler, intake lines and oil supply. Preventive measures such as running the engine after long journeys can significantly extend the service life of the turbocharger.
The 1.8 TSI timing chain of the VW Passat shows the first signs of wear after 60,000 km, which are noticeable in the form of rattling during cold starts. These frequent faults particularly affect vehicles built between 2007 and 2015 and can lead to serious engine damage. The critical phase is between 120,000-180,000 km, when the timing chain jumps or breaks. Symptoms include metallic noises from the engine compartment, unsteady idling and, in the worst case, complete engine damage due to piston/valve collision. The service life of the timing chain is negatively affected by short journeys and frequent cold starts.
A professional inspection is required to detect timing chain problems at an early stage. The VW Passat timing chain systems require regular checks of the chain tension and oil pressure every 30,000 km. Professional maintenance with high-quality 5W-30 engine oil and correct change intervals can extend the service life considerably. At the first sign of chain rattling, a workshop should be visited immediately, as the entire timing chain, including tensioners and guide rails, will need to be replaced.
The central locking system does not open in many VW Passat models, especially in vehicles with a service life of 5-8 years or more. These electronic faults affect both older models with the 2.0 TDI 140 PS and newer variants with 4Motion drive. Typical symptoms are the complete failure of the remote control, individual doors that do not switch, and the fact that the emergency key does not work reliably. The problems usually occur in phases - the first faults occur after 3-5 years, a second wave between 8-12 years of vehicle age. The door lock actuators and the central control unit of the comfort control system are particularly affected.
Professional maintenance is crucial for the functionality of the central locking system. The complex VW Passat central locking systems require regular diagnostics with fault memory readout and functional testing of all actuators. A systematic check of the door contacts, microswitches and cable connections every 2-3 years can prevent costly failures. At the first sign of malfunction, the door locks should be cleaned and lubricated before a complete replacement of the servomotors becomes necessary.
The air conditioning system does not cool in many VW Passat models with different engines such as the 1.6 TDI 120 PS, 2.0 TDI 170 PS and 2.5 TDI V6. These weak points are manifested by diminishing cooling performance, warm air despite the air conditioning system being switched on and increased operating noise. The first problems often occur after 4-6 years, with a second wave of problems appearing between 8-12 years of vehicle age. Defective air conditioning compressors, leaking condensers and clogged cabin filters are particularly common. The reliability of the air conditioning system is further impaired by infrequent use and lack of maintenance. Vehicles with panoramic roofs show earlier air conditioning problems due to the higher heat load.
Regular maintenance is essential for the air conditioning system to function optimally. The VW Passat air conditioning systems require a professional inspection with refrigerant check and disinfection of the evaporator every 2-3 years. A systematic inspection should check the compressor, condenser and all lines for leaks. Preventive measures such as regular filter changes every 15,000 km and year-round use of the air conditioning system can significantly extend its service life and avoid costly repairs.
Electronic systems in the VW Passat exhibit various faults that occur particularly in modern equipment variants. The radio does not come on, Bluetooth does not connect and Lane Assist is not available are common complaints from drivers. These faults affect both diesel variants such as the 2.0 TDI Biturbo and 239 PS diesel as well as petrol models such as the 2.0 FSI 150 PS. Electronic problems often manifest themselves in waves - first faults after 2-4 years, more severe problems between 6-10 years of vehicle age. In particular, the electric trailer coupling does not work reliably and the electric tailgate does not open on many vehicles. The main user function also shows frequent malfunctions, and Bluetooth cannot be switched on with various infotainment systems.
A systematic check is required to diagnose electronic problems. The complex VW Passat electronic systems require regular software updates and fault code readouts with professional diagnostic equipment. A professional inspection should check all control units, cable connections and fuses. Preventive measures such as moisture protection, regular battery checks and careful handling of electronic components can significantly improve the reliability of the systems.
Based on the experiences of VW Passat drivers, the following additional problems occur:
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VAG Engine oil
0W-30, 1l
Article number: GS55545M2
£12.99
£12.99
for 1 litre
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
-34%
Article number: 1EL 247 014-831
compared to
RRP
£596.60
£388.50price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
Article number: 3 397 016 507
£8.59price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
-26%
Article number: F11-15-021-02-VA
compared to
RRP
£101.54
£74.99
Price per item
£149.98 / Price per 2 items
price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
VAG Engine oil
5W-40, 5l
Article number: GS55502M4
£46.49
£9.30
for 1 litre
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Based on owner feedback, these additional technical problems occur regularly and require expert attention.
| Strengths | Weak points |
|---|---|
| Large trunk and interior space | DSG-gearbox problems |
| Good road holding and ride comfort | Turbocharger wear with TSI |
| Modern safety equipment | Timing chain problems |
| Wide range of engines | Electronic faults |
| Solid workmanship | Air conditioning defects |
| Low maintenance costs with TDI | Central locking failures |
| Good price-performance ratio | High repair costs |
The VW Passat proves to be a fundamentally solid vehicle with good driving characteristics and practical qualities. The most common problems concern the DSG-gearbox, turbochargers in TSI-engines and electronic systems. Regular maintenance and timely intervention at the first symptoms can successfully rectify most weak points. It is particularly important to observe the maintenance intervals and use original parts for repairs to ensure the longevity of the vehicle.
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146 mm, with clamps
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MONROE Shock absorber
Gas Pressure, Electronically adjustable shock strength, Suspension Strut
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