Used Volkswagen Passat Estate 2005 - 2015 reliability review

Name: Used Volkswagen Passat Estate 2005 - 2015
Rating: 4
Author: Stuart Milne

The VW Passat Estate is a solid, conventional, yet ultimately quite desirable estate car

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Used

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Used Volkswagen Passat 2015-2022 manual gearbox

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What should I look for in a used Volkswagen Passat?

Check the Vehicle and Operator Safety Agency website at www.vosa.gov.uk to see if any recalls affect the model you're looking at - a main dealer will be able to tell you if the car you're interested in has had the necessary recall work completed. The most serious concerns a risk of fire on 2.0 TDI models fitted with the six-seed manual gearbox.

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The interior should prove durable and hard-wearing, but check all electric systems thoroughly. It's also very important to have the suspension checked on high-mileage cars, especially if you intend on carrying a lot of heavy cargo or towing. The steering system can give problems, so make sure the power assistance feels even and consistent, and keep an ear out for any unusual noises.

Tips & Advice

Check for outstanding recalls

Many cars are recalled so that faults can be put right. Recall work shouldn’t cost you a penny, and they’ll make your car safer or more mechanically robust. Checking if your car has been recalled is easy

Choose the right breakdown cover

You may already have a breakdown policy through your home insurance or new-car warranty so check to avoid paying twice

Ensure you have breakdown cover

Thousands of What Car? readers deliver their verdict on the best breakdown companies helping you to choose the best cover

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Volkswagen Passat

2.0 TDI BlueMotion Tech S Euro 5 (s/s) 5dr

Volkswagen Passat

2.0 TDI BlueMotion Tech SE Euro 5 (s/s) 5dr

Volkswagen Passat

1.6 TDI BlueMotion Tech SE Euro 5 (s/s) 5dr

Volkswagen Passat

1.6 TDI BlueMotion Tech Sport Euro 5 (s/s) 5dr

Volkswagen Passat

2.0 TDI BlueMotion Tech S DSG Euro 5 (s/s) 5dr

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About the writer

Name: Stuart Milne

Title: Digital editor

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Stuart has been a motoring journalist for more than 25 years, writing and editing for a wide range of consumer titles. Today, Stuart is responsible for the smooth running of whatcar.com and all of its related social and digital channels. And he’s the man responsible for making sure you're able to find What Car?’s industry-leading content whenever you search for it.

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