2011 Volkswagen Passat
Only 16 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 16 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 16
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 2
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
None on file
Opened by NHTSA
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2011: 16 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1988 | 0 |
| 1989 | 0 |
| 1990 | 34 |
| 1991 | 24 |
| 1992 | 40 |
| 1993 | 68 |
| 1994 | 25 |
| 1995 | 94 |
| 1996 | 142 |
| 1997 | 70 |
| 1998 | 331 |
| 1999 | 664 |
| 2000 | 507 |
| 2001 | 430 |
| 2002 | 636 |
| 2003 | 629 |
| 2004 | 279 |
| 2005 | 148 |
| 2006 | 576 |
| 2007 | 262 |
| 2008 | 168 |
| 2009 | 146 |
| 2010 | 163 |
| 2011 | 16 |
| 2012 | 484 |
| 2013 | 749 |
| 2014 | 594 |
| 2015 | 243 |
| 2016 | 106 |
| 2017 | 110 |
| 2018 | 46 |
| 2019 | 12 |
| 2020 | 18 |
| 2021 | 19 |
| 2022 | 13 |
Known problem areas
Only 16 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Engine
6 of 16 total reports mention: engine.
Show complaint excerpts
After recall 20AE (Fuel Pump Control Module) was completed at Performance Volkswagen in Lyndhurst, NJ, my vehicle began shutting off while idling and displayed code P0087 â Fuel Rail/System Pressure Too Low.
NHTSA ODI report, 2025-11-05
Also filed under Fuel/propulsion system and power train
Air bags
5 of 16 total reports mention: air bags.
Show complaint excerpts
Tl* the contact owns a 2011 Volkswagen Passat. While driving 35 MPH, another vehicle crashed into the rear driver side door of the contact's vehicle. The air bags failed to deploy.
NHTSA ODI report, 2016-04-12
Takata recall. I was notified in April, but it is now August and the parts are still not available. I don't think this is acceptable.
NHTSA ODI report, 2016-08-25
Electrical system
4 of 16 total reports mention: electrical system.
Show complaint excerpts
Vehicle missing engine cradle after being repaired at a certified dealer. Vehicle missing subframe screw after being repaired at certified Volkswagen deslership(Stone mountain vw and marietta vw) both locations in Georgia.
NHTSA ODI report, 2020-03-06
Also filed under Suspension
The rcd-510 premium 8 radio with bluetooth cell phone connectivity completely failed in my 2011 Jetta sportwagon tdi manufactures in 2010 at about 3 1/2 years and 77K miles.
NHTSA ODI report, 2014-10-10
Fuel/propulsion system
3 of 16 total reports mention: fuel/propulsion system.
Steering
2 of 16 total reports mention: steering.
Safety timeline
No recalls on file for this model year.
0 recalls · 2 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
-
I
2017-11-13Recall queryClosed 2018-05-04 Air Bag Clockspring Failure
-
I
2018-04-18Engineering analysisOpen Air Bag Clockspring Failure
Buy-smart checklist
2011 Volkswagen Passat — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine: 6 reports on file for this year.
- Air bags: 5 reports on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 4 reports on file for this year.
Other years of this model
See all years ranked →FAQ
- Is the 2011 Volkswagen Passat reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 2011 Volkswagen Passat?
- The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 38% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2011 Volkswagen Passat have?
- No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.