Model year guide

1996 Volkswagen Passat

Recalls, most-reported problems, crash-test ratings, fuel economy and what a 1996 Volkswagen Passat is worth — from official NHTSA and EPA data. 2 on record.

1996 Volkswagen Passat — representative photo
Representative photo · via Wikimedia Commons

1996 Volkswagen Passat at a glance

Safety recalls1
Owner complaints159
Combined23 mpg

Free: specs, open recalls for that exact car, build sheet and fair price.

1996 Volkswagen Passat recalls 1

Electrical System:ignition:switch NHTSA Campaign #02V256000 · 18/09/2002

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE ELECTRICAL PORTION OF THE IGNITION SWITCH ASSEMBLY CAN FAIL CAUSING THE HEADLIGHTS AND WINDSHIELD WIPERS TO BECOME INOPERATIVE.

Fix: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ELECTRICAL PART OF THE IGNITION SWITCH ASSEMBLY. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN NOVEMBER 20, 2002. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT VWOA AT 1-800-822-8987.

Source: U.S. NHTSA. A recall applies to a model year, but only a VIN check shows whether a specific car has had the repair done.

1996 Volkswagen Passat common problems

The most-reported problem areas from 159 owner complaints filed with NHTSA — and what to check before you buy.

Electrical System
Test every electrical feature: windows, locks, infotainment, charging and all lights. Watch for flickering, dead accessories or warning lights.
Engine And Engine Cooling
Check coolant level and color, look for leaks, and confirm the engine reaches normal temperature without overheating.
Visibility
Test wipers, washers, defrosters and all mirrors. Check the windshield for cracks and any camera/sensor for fogging or faults.
Latches/locks/linkages
Have a trusted mechanic inspect this system as part of a pre-purchase inspection.
Exterior Lighting
Confirm all headlights, brake lights, turn signals and reverse lights work, with no moisture inside the housings.
Power Train
Drive through every gear: watch for slipping, hard or delayed shifts, and shudder. Check for transmission/driveline leaks and noises.

1996 Volkswagen Passat MPG & running costs

Combined23 mpg
City20 mpg
Highway28 mpg
Est. annual fuel cost$3,000

Source: U.S. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov, averaged across trims.

Estimated 5-year cost to own

A rough guide to what running a 1996 Volkswagen Passat costs over five years and 75,000 miles.

Fuel (5 yrs)$15,000
Fuel only$15,000
Per mile$0.20

How this is estimated: fuel is the U.S. EPA annual cost at 15,000 miles a year. There aren't enough comparable listings to estimate depreciation for this model, so it is left out. Not included: insurance, maintenance, repairs, taxes, registration and finance costs. Treat it as a comparison guide, not a quote.

1996 Volkswagen Passat trims & engines on record

Trims
GLX V6
Engines
2.8L 6-cyl 172 hp

1996 Volkswagen Passat vehicles on record

1996 Volkswagen Passat GLX V6WVWFE83A0TE185219 1996 Volkswagen Passat 1996 Volkswagen Passat GLX V6WVWEE83A0TE019326

Other Volkswagen Passat model years

2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998

1996 Volkswagen Passat — frequently asked questions

Does the 1996 Volkswagen Passat have any safety recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 safety recall for the 1996 Volkswagen Passat. Recall repairs are free at any franchised dealer. Whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

What are the most common problems with the 1996 Volkswagen Passat?

Based on 159 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are electrical system, engine and engine cooling, visibility.

What gas mileage does the 1996 Volkswagen Passat get?

The U.S. EPA rates the 1996 Volkswagen Passat at about 23 mpg combined (20 city / 28 highway).

Sources: NHTSA (recalls, complaints, crash tests), U.S. EPA (fuel economy). Vehicle data only — CarLogs never shows owner information.