Passat (2006)
Engine Reliability Ratings
EA390 VR6
3.6L 6-cyl / 280 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Volkswagen Passat Unidentified Engine
View details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
2.0-I4-Gas
2.0L 4-cyl / 200 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Show 1 additional engine variant with limited data
1.8-I4-Gas
1.8L 4-cyl / 150 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Vehicle-Level Issues
These issues affect the Volkswagen Passat regardless of engine variant.
Recalls (7)
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Beetle, Beetle Convertible, 2012-2014 Passat, 2017 Passat Wagon, and 2006-2007 Passat Sedan vehicles. The driver's side frontal air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2006-2007 Volkswagen Passat sedan and wagon vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to explode.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2009-2016 Volkswagen CC, 2006-2010 Passat and Passat Wagon vehicles. Interruption of electrical power to the fuel pump control module may cause the fuel pump to fail.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2006 Volkswagen Passat sedans and wagons, 2005-2013 Audi A3, and 2006-2009 Audi A4 Cabriolet vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 2.0L ENGINE WITH 147 KW MAY HAVE A VACUUM LINE THAT MAY FRACTURE AND BECOME DISCONNECTED AT LOW AMBIENT TEMPERATURES.
ON CERTAIN '6' GENERATION PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE WIPER MOTOR MAY FAIL DURING HEAVY RAIN DUE TO EXCESSIVE MOISTURE ENTERING THE WIPER MOTOR. IF THIS HAPPENS, THE WIPERS CAN BECOME INOPERATIVE.
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE LEFT AND RIGHT TIE ROD SECURING NUT MAY BE INSUFFICIENTLY TORQUED.
Alternatives in Midsize Sedan
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2006-2006 Volkswagen Passat problems?
The 2006-2006 Volkswagen Passat has accumulated 576 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Safety Systems, Engine, Steering. As with any used vehicle, an inspection before buying and a vehicle history report are recommended.
Which Volkswagen Passat engine is most reliable?
The 2006-2006 Volkswagen Passat was offered with 4 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 3.6L 6-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.
Is the 2006-2006 Volkswagen Passat a good used car?
The 2006-2006 Volkswagen Passat can be a sound used car depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 576 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2006-2006 Volkswagen Passat have?
The 2006-2006 Volkswagen Passat has 576 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.
What recalls affect the 2006-2006 Volkswagen Passat?
There are 7 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2006-2006 Volkswagen Passat vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.
What should I check before buying a used Volkswagen Passat?
Before buying a used Volkswagen Passat, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Safety Systems, Engine, Steering, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.
Does the Passat have NHTSA crash test ratings?
NHTSA has not published crash test ratings for the 2006 Volkswagen Passat. Not all vehicles are tested each year. For the latest NHTSA safety information, visit nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 576 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-07-12.