2003 Volkswagen Passat engine problems
23 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the engine on the 2003 Volkswagen Passat — 4% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“The contact owns a 2003 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 mph the vehicle's speed suddenly begin to reduce and smoke was present coming from the engine compartment. After stopping and exiting the vehicle became engulfed in flames. The fire department was…”
filed Sep 20, 2021
“I purchased a used 2003 vw passat from a private dealer drove the car five months and the timing belt came off while I was driving. I almost got into an accident but avoided it. This particular vehicle and ones like it was recalled in 3/7/2014 for engine and engine cooling engine problems that…”
filed May 13, 2021
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 problems in other Passat years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 Passat | 11 | 24% |
| 2017 Passat | 7 | 6% |
| 2016 Passat | 17 | 16% |
| 2015 Passat | 53 | 22% |
| 2014 Passat | 77 | 13% |
| 2013 Passat | 104 | 14% |
| 2012 Passat | 40 | 8% |
| 2010 Passat | 41 | 25% |
| 2009 Passat | 60 | 41% |
| 2008 Passat | 43 | 26% |
| 2007 Passat | 28 | 11% |
| 2006 Passat | 64 | 11% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2003 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.