2002 Volkswagen Passat engine and engine cooling problems
135 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the engine and engine cooling on the 2002 Volkswagen Passat — 21% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“December 30, 2011, the engine emissions light came on. In addition, the brakes were slow to respond, especially in quick response situations, I.e. Traffic light. I took the car to pep boys for a diagnostic on brakes/emission. They said there were no problems. Cost $100. February 10, 2012, the…”
filed Apr 21, 2014
“Tl* the contact owns a 2002 volkswagen passat. While the contact was driving approximately 25 mph, the engine power began to significantly reduce during acceleration. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for diagnosis. The upward and downward oxygen sensors were replaced. The…”
filed Apr 10, 2012
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Related service bulletins
Update to Volkswagen engine oil standards
V171901201285565 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Aug 21, 2023Volkswagen Engine oil quality standards, update to attachments.
V171901201285562 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued May 30, 2023Engine oil quality standards, update to attachments.
V171901201285560 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Apr 24, 2023
Engine and Engine Cooling problems in other Passat years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 Passat | 2 | 2% |
| 2015 Passat | 2 | 1% |
| 2014 Passat | 4 | 1% |
| 2013 Passat | 5 | 1% |
| 2012 Passat | 4 | 1% |
| 2009 Passat | 4 | 3% |
| 2008 Passat | 9 | 5% |
| 2007 Passat | 32 | 12% |
| 2006 Passat | 66 | 11% |
| 2005 Passat | 50 | 34% |
| 2004 Passat | 59 | 21% |
| 2003 Passat | 131 | 21% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2002 Volkswagen Passat
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.