2013 Volkswagen Passat used buying checklist
What to check on a used 2013 Volkswagen Passat before you pay, based on what owners report, its recalls and the repairs the maker covers. Print it and take it to the test drive.
Test for the problems owners report most
The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.
- Airbag warning light75 owner complaints, usually around 73,300 miles, owners paid about $610
Make sure the airbag warning light turns off after start-up, and that every airbag recall was completed.
- Headlights failing or too dim48 owner complaints, usually around 70,000 miles
Check every exterior and interior light, and look for condensation inside the headlights.
- Check engine light47 owner complaints, usually around 55,131 miles, owners paid about $1,200
Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.
Make sure these recalls were done
Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.
- Air bagsRecall number 24V834000, Oct 30, 2024
- Air bagsRecall number 19V862000, Dec 4, 2019
- Exterior lightingRecall number 19V389000, May 22, 2019
- Air bagsRecall number 18V148000, Mar 6, 2018
- Power trainRecall number 17V309000, May 11, 2017
- Electrical systemRecall number 16V171000, Mar 24, 2016
- Air bagsRecall number 16V078000, Feb 10, 2016
- Air bagsRecall number 15V483000, Aug 4, 2015
- Exterior lightingRecall number 14V125000, Mar 17, 2014
Service bulletins worth asking about
Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.
- Prevent Sporatic Misfire Faults.Oct 29, 2026
- Reprogramming Control Module processOct 28, 2026
- Engine missfire diagnostic aidOct 15, 2026
- Adhesive to bond sensor to Radiator.Oct 14, 2026
- Suggested fuel additiveSep 17, 2026
Before you pay
- Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
- Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
- Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
- Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
- Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.
See every 2013 Volkswagen Passat problem
VIN decoder
See the problems and recalls for an exact car
Buying a used 2013 Volkswagen Passat?
Check the exact car before you pay: accidents, salvage or flood titles, odometer readings and previous owners.
Check its history