There are no safety recalls for the 2011 Volkswagen Passat, but owners have filed 16 complaints with NHTSA.
2011 Volkswagen Passat problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Engine | 6 | |
| Air Bags | 5 | |
| Electrical System | 4 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 3 | |
| Steering | 2 | |
| Unknown or Other | 2 | |
| Fuel System, Gasoline | 1 | |
| Wheels | 1 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 1 | |
| Suspension | 1 | |
| Power Train | 1 | |
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 93,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2011 Volkswagen Passat complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Fuel/Propulsion System · reported Nov 5, 2025
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. This issue began immediately after the recall was done. On one of the first nights after the repair, my car suddenly shut off around 4 a.m. while I was in New York City, leaving me completely stranded in the middle of the street with no assistance and no warning lights beforehand. I was panicking, stuck alone in the dark, unable to restart the car until it was jumped. The next night, it…
Air Bags · at 203,000 miles · reported Oct 15, 2020
Water pump defect causes timing chain malfunctioning as vehicle may stall while driving. Vehicle may overheat as water failure causes antifreeze to leak and cause overheating to fire hazard.
Electrical System · at 11 miles · reported Mar 6, 2020
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. Vehicle was driven with defect without my knowledge. Vehicle has multiple settlements. Dealership in jacksonville, florida: o'steen vw, was caught shredding records. Company refused to provide vehicle VIN history. Vehicle is located at o'steen vw, without repair. Car has been sitting over 30 days and I have been stranded. Please I
Electrical System · at 116,000 miles · reported Jan 23, 2020
I AM not able to open my trunk via fob, switch on the door nor remote. I have read this seems to be a common occurrence after rear light failures. My rear lights, headlights, and turning lights have all been replaced multiple times within the last few years. I went into the grocery store and when I attempted to open the trunk it wouldn't open. I have repeatedly tried again to no avail.
Steering · at 37,770 miles · reported Dec 2, 2019
While parked, upon starting the vehicle, a message on the console shows the following message: steering column lock defective!.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2011 Volkswagen Passat have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2011 Volkswagen Passat as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2011 Volkswagen Passat?
Owners report engine problems most often (6 reports), followed by air bags (5). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 93,000 miles.
Are Volkswagen recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Volkswagen dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.