Last updated: 2026-07-26

RELIABILITY SCORE: 77/100 (GOOD)

2019 Volkswagen Passat Reliability Report

Name: 2019 Volkswagen Passat
Brand: Volkswagen

The 2019 Volkswagen Passat scores 77/100 ("Good"). With 1 recall and 12 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Full Breakdown Compare Models

Recalls

Complaints

Complaint Rate

8.5per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$639

Annual Fuel Cost

$2,050

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity69/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs80/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact88/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity78/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)
SERVICE BRAKES (2)
FUEL SYSTEM (1)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Redesign (Year 5)

2019 is year 5 of the Eighth generation (B8).

Redesigned for the 2015 model year.
Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
8th generation Passat (US).

What this means for buyers

Well into the generation cycle — most design and manufacturing issues should be resolved by now.

2015: Eighth generation (B8) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2019: This Model Year

2019 is year 5 of the Eighth generation (B8).

Should You Buy the 2019 Volkswagen Passat?

At 77/100, the 2019 Volkswagen Passat lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2019 is year 5 of the Eighth generation (B8).

Owners log 12 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.

Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to electrical system (4). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2020 Volkswagen Passat, which scored 2 points lower. See also the 2018 Volkswagen Passat for an earlier comparison.

Pros

+Acceptable reliability score
+Low major repair risk (9%)
+Low recall count
+Below-average complaint rate for Sedan

Cons

−Above-average repair costs for its class
−ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Remote start feature, which fails to function as intended (4 complaints)
−SERVICE BRAKES: Delayed brake engagement and abnormal pedal positioning (2 complaints)

Compare 2019 Volkswagen Passat With

2019 Subaru Legacy

Reliability: 69/100

Good

2019 Ford Fusion

Reliability: 68/100

Good

2019 Buick Lacrosse

Reliability: 76/100

Good

2019 Buick Regal

Reliability: 73/100

Good

2019 Genesis G80

Reliability: 66/100

Good

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK

1 manufacturer recall issued

Other

HIGH RISK

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)
SERVICE BRAKES (2)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

recall on record

The 2019 Volkswagen Passat carries 1 recall — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

8.5

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 19

LowAvgHigh

Low

Safety Incidents

Crashes

Fires

Injuries

Deaths

★★★★★

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

2019 Volkswagen Passat Recall Details

1 recall has been issued for the 2019 Volkswagen Passat. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

19V3890002019-05-22

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2012-2020 Volkswagen Passat and 2018-2019 Atlas vehicles. The blocking cap disabling the adjustment of the headlight's horizontal aim may not have been installed. As such, these vehicles fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

Consequence

Without the blocking cap, the headlight aim can be adjusted out of specification, reducing visibility and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, block the headlight horizontal adjustment, free of charge. The recall began July 16, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 94L9.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2019 Volkswagen Passat? Check its history first

Every 2019 Volkswagen Passat has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Accidents
Open Recalls
Title History
Odometer Rollback

2019 Volkswagen Passat NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 4/5Passenger: 4/5

Rollover risk: 10.7%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Pelvis/Torso (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Not Available)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)

View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Volkswagen PassatRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$639

vs $526 avg for midsize cars

vs $652 avg for all vehicles

Repair Frequency

0.4

unscheduled repair visits per year

Severe Repair Probability

chance of a major repair

Annual Cost Comparison

Passat

$639

Category Avg

$526

All Vehicles

$652

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Gas

29 MPG

Running cost: $2,700/yr

Fuel + repair

25 city / 36 hwy MPG

Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2019 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims

Trim	Drive	Trans.	City	Hwy	Comb	Fuel Cost
Passat 2.0L 4-cyl	Front-Wheel Drive	Automatic (S6)	25	36	29	$2,050

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2019 Volkswagen Passat.

Inspect heated seats for overheating or burn marks
Test remote start functionality multiple times
Check for unexpected activation of collision avoidance system
Verify brake pedal engagement and return speed
Ensure fuel injector and fuel pump module are functioning properly
Examine windshield for any cracks or signs of spreading

2019 Volkswagen Passat Common Problems by Component

12 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)SERVICE BRAKES (2)FUEL SYSTEM (1)ENGINE (1)POWER TRAIN (1)SEATS (1)STEERING (1)VISIBILITY/WIPER (1)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

4 complaints

Owners of the 2019 Volkswagen Passat frequently report issues with the vehicle's electrical system, particularly involving the remote start feature, which fails to function as intended. Complaints describe the vehicle turning over but immediately dying when the remote start is used. Additionally, multiple owners note problems with the start/stop button, where the vehicle fails to start and displays a "No Key Detected" message. These issues are reported at various mileages, with one owner noting trouble as early as 15,000 miles. Safety implications are highlighted by reports of the collision avoidance system activating unexpectedly, causing abrupt stops without any apparent obstruction, although no crashes or injuries are reported. These patterns suggest potential reliability concerns for used car buyers considering this model.

4 complaints total

SERVICE BRAKES

2 complaints

Owners of the 2019 Volkswagen Passat report issues with the service brakes, primarily involving delayed brake engagement and abnormal pedal positioning. Complaints frequently mention that the brakes do not engage immediately upon pressing the pedal and that the brake pedal does not return promptly after release. Additionally, one report describes a problematic pedal alignment, where the brake pedal is positioned significantly ahead of the gas pedal, leading to difficulty in braking and a potential foot entrapment. These symptoms suggest potential safety risks, including delayed braking response and compromised control, although no specific mileage or timeline patterns are noted. This information is crucial for used car buyers considering this model, as it highlights potential brake-related safety concerns.

2 complaints total

FUEL SYSTEM

1 complaint

2022-10-01

The contact owns a 2019 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle was shaking and then lost motive power. The contact pushed the vehicle to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the fuel injector needed to be replaced. The mechanic replaced the fuel injector. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.

ENGINE (1 complaints)

ENGINE

1 complaint

2019-03-29

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2019 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE IDLED WITH THE EPC LIGHT AND THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. ADDITIONALLY, THE VEHICLE WAS BELABORED WHILE SHIFTING GEARS AND AT LOW SPEEDS. THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL SOUND COMING FROM THE ENGINE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER (HERITAGE VOLKSWAGEN CATONSVILLE 6624 BALTIMORE NATIONAL PIKE, BALTIMORE, MD 21228) FOR DIAGNOSIS AND REPAIRS. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE FUEL PUMP MODULE AND FUEL INJECTORS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE BUT OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE OR RESOLUTION. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 6,000. *TP

POWER TRAIN (1 complaints)

POWER TRAIN

1 complaint

2019-07-01

WHEN THE VEHICLE IS AT SLOWER SPEEDS, IT IS CONSTANTLY SHIFTING TO TRY AND SAVE ON FUEL. THIS RESULTS IN THE VEHICLE NOT PROVIDING A CONSISTENT RIDE. THE NOISE WHEN IT SHIFTS IS VERY LOUD AND CAN SOMETIMES BE FELT THROUGH A JERKING MOTION. BRINGING THE VEHICLE IN TO THE DEALERSHIP RESULTED IN THEM SAYING THEY KNOW IT'S AN ISSUE AND HOPEFULLY VW COMES OUT WITH A SOFTWARE FIX. IT'S NOT COMFORTING KNOWING THAT THE DEALERSHIP KNOWS THERE'S AN ISSUE AND NOTHING IS BEING DONE.

SEATS (1 complaints)

SEATS

1 complaint

2019-11-11

ON 11/10/2019 WHILE DRIVING I CONSTANTLY FELT BURNING SENSATION ON MY RIGHT THIGH WHILE ON THE HIGHWAY AT SPEEDS AROUND 70 MILES. THE NEXT DAY ON 11/11/2019 WITH THE FAMILY AND KIDS MY RIGHT THIGH STARTED FEELING LIKE ITS BURNING. SUBSEQUENTLY WE STARTED SMELLING SOMETHING BURN AND SWITCHED OFF ALL HEAT AND HEATED SEATS AND DROVE BACK HOME WITH OUT ANY HEAT IN 15 F . ON ARRIVAL WE NOTICED THAT THE HEATED SEAT GOT SO HOT THAT IT BURNT A HOLE IN THE DRIVER CAR SEAT AND MELTED THE LEATHER . WE ALL GOT EXTREMELY SCARED OF A POSSIBLE FIRE IN THE CAR AND COULD HAD GOT INJURED OR STRANDED ON A VERY COLD DAY. THERE ARE 100'S OF SIMILAR ISSUES POSTED ONLINE BUT I AM NOT SURE WHY THIS IS NOT BEING FIXED. IF THE CLOTHS FIRE CATCHES ON AND WE ARE ON A FREEWAY AT A HIGH SPEED THEN MY FAMILY'S LIFE COULD BE ENDANGERED IF I LOOSE CONTROL BECAUSE OF THIS BURN. THE CAR IS 2019 JANUARY VW PASSAT BOUGHT FROM VW AND IS ALMOST BRAND NEW . I HAVE TAKEN A DEALER APPOINTMENT AND WILL BE VISITING ON 11/16/2019 TO GET THIS CHECKED AND PROBABLY FIXED. BUT SHOULD I TRUST THAT THIS WONT HAPPEN AGAIN ?

STEERING (1 complaints)

STEERING

1 complaint

2019-10-01

CAR HESITATES ERRATICALLY AND UNPREDICTABLY WHEN ACCELERATING MOST NOTICEABLY FROM A DEAD STOP, AND AT SLOW SPEEDS WHILE TURNING. ATTEMPTING TO ACCELERATE FROM A STOP TO CROSS A STREET IN BUSY TRAFFIC THE CAR WILL JUST SIT UNRESPONSIVE FOR SECONDS AND BARELY ACCELERATE AND THEN UNPREDICTABLY ACCELERATE. DUE TO THE VEHICLE BEING THE R-LINE, IT DRIFTS ALL OVER THE ROAD. I HAVE HAD 4 WHEEL ALIGNMENTS ON THE CAR WITH ONLY 6400 MILES ON IT.

VISIBILITY/WIPER (1 complaints)

VISIBILITY/WIPER

1 complaint

2019-07-08

WINDSHIELD BEGAN CRACKING IN THE MIDDLE FROM PASSENGER SIDE TOWARD DRIVER SIDE. NO ROCK OR OTHER DEBRIS HIT WINDSHIELD. IT IS A CONTINUOUS CRACK THAT IS A FINE LINK CRACK THAT CONTINUES TO SPREAD.

When Do 2019 Volkswagen Passat Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

6,000–40,000 milesFuel system failures

15,000 milesElectrical system failures

Best & Worst Volkswagen Passat Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Volkswagen Passat Years to Buy

Based on reliability index score

The best Volkswagen Passat year is 2021 with a reliability score of 78/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2022 (77/100) and 2019 (77/100).

Top Pick

Good

2021

1Recalls

18Complaints

Good

2022

0Recalls

11Complaints

Good

2019

(Current Model)

1Recalls

12Complaints

Volkswagen Passat Years to Avoid

No Volkswagen Passat years are statistical outliers in our data.

All model years score consistently well. The Volkswagen Passat maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.

See full Volkswagen Passat years-to-avoid analysis

Volkswagen Passat Reliability Score Trend

Volkswagen Passat reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 76/100.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Volkswagen Passat reliability scores by year
Year	Score	Rating
2018	71/100	Good
2019	77/100	Good
2020	75/100	Good
2021	78/100	Good
2022	77/100	Good

Volkswagen Passat Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
Year	Score	vs Prior Year	Rating	Recalls	Complaints
2022	77/100	-1	Good	0	11
2021	78/100	+3	Good	1	18
2020	75/100	-2	Good	3	15
2019(selected)	77/100	+6	Good	1	12
2018	71/100	—	Good	4	45

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2019 Volkswagen Passat reliable?

The 2019 Volkswagen Passat has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 77/100. It is reasonably reliable with 1 recall and 12 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.

What are the most common problems with the 2019 Volkswagen Passat?

The most commonly reported problems with the 2019 Volkswagen Passat include: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4 complaints), SERVICE BRAKES (2 complaints), FUEL SYSTEM (1 complaints), ENGINE (1 complaints), POWER TRAIN (1 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.

How many recalls does the 2019 Volkswagen Passat have?

The 2019 Volkswagen Passat has 1 recall on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.

Is the 2019 Volkswagen Passat expensive to maintain?

The 2019 Volkswagen Passat has estimated annual repair costs of $639/year, which is $113 more than the midsize cars average of $526. With a reliability score of 77/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2019 Volkswagen Passat without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Look Up a VIN →

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Volkswagen Passat.

No spam. Only data updates for this model.