If you own a 2012, 2013, or 2014 Passat 2.0L TDI and have had the emissions modification completed, Volkswagen has identified a serious issue with the “fix” that requires your immediate attention. For those who have not yet had the modification, an important decision needs to be made promptly. Volkswagen will be sending out detailed letters, but here’s what you need to know right away.
Back in 2016, Volkswagen faced lawsuits from government agencies and vehicle owners due to the installation of “defeat devices” in their 2.0L diesel cars, designed to cheat emissions tests. As part of the settlement, VW offered owners two choices: either receive an emissions modification along with a cash payment, or have Volkswagen buy back their vehicle.
Key Information for 2012-2014 Passat 2.0L TDI Owners with Engine Modification
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Critical Problem with VW’s Emissions “Fix”: A significant issue has been detected in 2012-2014 Passat models that have undergone the emissions modification. When driven at higher speeds – typically above 80 mph for periods exceeding 15 minutes, whether continuous or accumulated over multiple trips – these modified Passats may not inject sufficient diesel exhaust fluid (DEF). Prolonged driving under these conditions can trigger a malfunction in your emission system, indicated by a dashboard warning light. This may be followed by a warning chime, and in some cases, the vehicle may fail to restart after being turned off.
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Immediate Actions for Passat Owners if Warning Light Appears: If the warning light illuminates, it is crucial to visit your Volkswagen dealership as soon as possible. VW will address the warning light issue free of charge. In the interim, avoid driving your Passat at speeds above 80 mph.
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Precautionary Measures if Warning Light is Not On: Even if your warning light hasn’t activated, it is recommended to limit your driving speed to under 80 mph until a permanent solution is implemented by Volkswagen.
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Volkswagen’s Plan to Resolve the Issue: Volkswagen is actively developing a complimentary software update to rectify this problem. Owners will be officially notified when the update is ready for installation. Once notified, you can schedule a service appointment with your local VW dealer to receive the software update, or have it applied during your next scheduled service visit. Until this update is installed, maintaining a speed below 80 mph is advised.
Options for 2012-2014 Passat 2.0L TDI Owners Who Have Not Yet Received the Engine Modification
- Still Eligible for Buyback or Lease Termination: Even if you were leaning towards getting the emissions modification, you still have the option to choose the buyback or early lease termination program instead. To opt for the buyback or lease termination, contact 1‑844‑98‑CLAIM by the date specified in the letter you will receive from VW. If you remain interested in the modification, it is strongly recommended to wait until Volkswagen announces the availability of the software update that resolves the reported issue.
Frequently Asked Questions for Passat Owners
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Seeking More Details on the Emissions Modification Issue: For further information, contact Volkswagen directly at 1-800-893-5298 or visit www.vw.com/contact.
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Will Volkswagen Contact Owners Directly?: Yes, Volkswagen will be sending out letters to affected Passat owners. If you do not receive a letter in the coming days, it is advisable to contact them at 1‑800‑893‑5298.
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Is This Problem Affecting Other Modified VW Models?: According to Volkswagen, this specific issue is only observed in 2012, 2013, and 2014 2.0L Passat TDI models that have received the emissions modification.
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How to Check for Recalls on Your VW: To check if your Volkswagen is subject to this or any other recall, visit www.vw.com/owners-recalls and use the Recall/Service Campaign Lookup Tool by entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
