10.0

really awful
Crashes / Fires:
0 / 1
Injuries / Deaths:
0 / 0
Average Mileage:
52,000 miles

About These NHTSA Complaints:

The NHTSA is the US gov't agency tasked with vehicle safety. Complaints can be spread across multiple & redundant categories, & are not organized by problem. See the Back button — blue bar at the very top of the page — to explore more.

Get notified about new defects, investigations, recalls & lawsuits for the 2003 Volkswagen Passat:

Unsubscribe any time. We don't sell/share your email.

problem #1

Jan 122008

Passat 4-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 52,000 miles
The contact owns a 2003 Volkswagen Passat. While driving approximately 30 mph, the vehicle vibrated excessively and smoke began emanating from the passenger side. The engine light remained illuminated on the instrument control panel. She pulled over to inspect the vehicle and noticed flames coming from the catalytic converter. The dealer stated that the electrical system, emission coiler, and oxygen sensors failed. All of the repairs were made. The contact filed a formal complaint with the manufacturer. The powertrain was unknown. The failure and current mileages were 52,000.

- Skokie, IL, USA