CarRecallWatchThe 2016 Volkswagen Passat has 5 safety recalls on file with NHTSA.
Owners have filed 106 complaints with NHTSA, including 4 crashes, 3 injuries.
The most-reported problem area is Air Bags (25 reports).
2016 Volkswagen Passat recalls
Vehicles May Not Meet Federal Safety Standards
Volkswagen is recalling certain vehicles that were used internally and sold without confirmation they were built to all applicable federal safety requirements.
Vehicles May Not Meet Federal Safety Standards
Volkswagen is recalling certain 2016-2018 Passat, 2017 Golf Alltrack and E-Golf, 2018 Golf R and Atlas vehicles.
Headlights May Be Misaimed, Reducing Night Visibility
Some Volkswagen Passat and Atlas vehicles may have been built without the blocking cap that prevents the headlight's horizontal aim from being adjusted.
Fuel rail can detach and leak fuel, risking fire
Certain 2016 Volkswagen Golf, Jetta, and Passat vehicles may have a fuel rail that can detach from the cylinder head, causing a fuel leak.
Brake Assist Can Fail, Lengthening Stopping Distance
A camshaft lobe that drives the brake vacuum pump may break off in these vehicles.
Most common 2016 Volkswagen Passat problems
Problem areas named in the 106 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.
| Problem area | Reports |
|---|---|
| Air Bags | 25 |
| Electrical System | 22 |
| Steering | 19 |
| Engine | 17 |
| Service Brakes | 15 |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 15 |
| Unknown Or Other | 13 |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 11 |
| Forward Collision Avoidance | 7 |
| Power Train | 5 |
What owners report
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.
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 VWâs recent fuel pump recall (24V110000) didn't include enough vehicles.
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 contact was informed that the vehicle was not included in the recall. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline to file a complaint. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 89,000.
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. Additionally, the brakes failed to function properly, preventing the vehicle from stopping as needed. The vehicle was driven to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The independent mechanic associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V403000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE); however, th
The vehicle has been alerting error codes 16352 for failing to communicate with ABS module causing warning lights for ABS, brake and the ESC systems to illuminate. The brake system related vehicle stabilizing functions (ABS/ESC) is not be available, increasing the risk of a loss of vehicle control and could lead to a crash causing injury and/or property damage. Please reference Safety Recall Code: 45F2
2016 Volkswagen Passat questions
Does the 2016 Volkswagen Passat have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 5 safety recalls for the 2016 Volkswagen Passat: Vehicles May Not Meet Federal Safety Standards; Vehicles May Not Meet Federal Safety Standards; Headlights May Be Misaimed, Reducing Night Visibility; Fuel rail can detach and leak fuel, risking fire; Brake Assist Can Fail, Lengthening Stopping Distance. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 Volkswagen Passat?
Based on 106 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Air Bags (25), Electrical System (22), Steering (19).
How do I check if a recall on my 2016 Volkswagen Passat has been fixed?
Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.