2016 Volkswagen Passat air bags problems
25 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the air bags on the 2016 Volkswagen Passat — 24% of all complaints for this model year.
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…”
filed May 3, 2026
“The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated that on seven occasions, the clock spring failed while driving at various speeds. The contact stated that there was an abnormal clicking sound coming from the vehicle with the air bag warning light illuminated on the instrument panel…”
filed Aug 18, 2025
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Related service bulletins
Inquiries
V6919012010479_17 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Jun 11, 2026
Air Bags problems in other Passat years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 Passat | 5 | 11% |
| 2017 Passat | 28 | 26% |
| 2015 Passat | 88 | 36% |
| 2014 Passat | 353 | 60% |
| 2013 Passat | 381 | 51% |
| 2012 Passat | 295 | 61% |
| 2010 Passat | 45 | 28% |
| 2009 Passat | 12 | 8% |
| 2008 Passat | 32 | 19% |
| 2007 Passat | 106 | 40% |
| 2006 Passat | 148 | 26% |
| 2005 Passat | 4 | 3% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2016 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.