Weak points of the Passat B6 diesel according to the ADAC: suspension, rust, DSG and software update

Engine / equipment

VW Passat B6 diesel (1.9 and 2.0 TDI)

Period mentioned

2005–2010

Symptoms

Worn springs and dampers, worn brake discs, rust on the front wings and on the tailgate (estate) and, at times, jerky pull-away with the DSG.

Possible cause described

According to the ADAC, in its breakdown statistics the Passat is surprisingly unreliable, partly because of the very high mileages; in the German roadworthiness test it is below average because of worn springs, dampers and discs. The common rail diesels need a mandatory software update that should have been fitted on every car. The older 1.9 TDI is considered reliable and very durable; the 170 PS 2.0 TDI, a pump-injector with piezo injectors, is more prone to faults.

Check for the garage

Before buying, check the springs, dampers, discs and rust on the front wings and tailgate; test the DSG on gentle pull-aways and check by VIN that the common rail has had the mandatory software update. Expect high mileage.

Cost cited in the source

No verified estimate; ask the garage for a quote.A rough figure from the original database, not an up-to-date quote.

Sources from the original database