Credov's researched list of the 3 faults the Volkswagen Passat B6 is known for (2007–2014), 3 of them serious or costly. Each one says what to look for when you check the car, so you can spot it before you buy. Not every car has these faults: they are the ones worth checking on this model.
What to look for: Ask if the car has ever cut out or not restarted hot, and try a hot restart after the drive.
Why it matters: NHTSA's notice says the engine will stall if the pump fails, increasing crash risk. Outside a campaign the module is a parts-plus-labour job.
Sources: 1
What to look for: Check the plate on rightcar.govt.nz for the Takata airbag recall, as the airbag light will not show this fault.
Why it matters: A car with an outstanding Takata Alpha inflator cannot lawfully be sold for use on the road until fixed under the NZ compulsory recall, and a non-Alpha inflator still needs replacing. The fix is free but the car cannot be delivered until it is done.
What to look for: Check the airbag light goes out after start-up, and that the horn and wheel buttons work lock to lock.
Why it matters: A torn clock spring means the driver airbag will not deploy. A car cannot be delivered with an airbag light on, and clock-spring replacement is a steering-wheel-off job.
Sources: 1
Got a question about a Volkswagen Passat B6? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.
On top of the faults above, every Credov inspection covers the basics: fuel smell, leaks or filler rust, engine oil leaks, power steering fluid leak, drive belt cracks or squeal, rust underneath: chassis and mounts, engine mounts, engine oil level and colour, coolant level, colour and leaks, head gasket failure signs, cold start: rattle, knock or smoke, rough or hunting idle, engine running hot on gauge, gearbox or diff oil leak, swapped gearbox without lvv and more.
Researched by Credov from manufacturer recalls and service bulletins, owner reports and workshop sources. Repair prices are typical ranges, not quotes. See also fault codes and repair costs.