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2001 Volkswagen Passat Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.13
Based on 39 Owner Reviews â–¶
Cathleen V | March 31, 2025
The 2001 Volkswagen Passat belongs to the B5 generation (1997-2005 in Europe, 1998-2005 in North America), known for its refined styling and German engineering. It was available as a sedan and wagon. Key trims included the GL, GLS, and GLX. The original pricing ranged from around $21,000 to $30,000. The Passat stood out for its upscale interior, comfortable ride, and available turbocharged engine, making it a popular choice for those seeking a near-luxury experience without the premium price tag.
The Good

The 2001 Passat offered a comfortable ride and a well-designed interior that provided a near-luxury feel. Performance was adequate, especially with the turbocharged engine. Fuel efficiency was reasonable for its class. It was a good value proposition, offering European styling and engineering at a competitive price. Its understated elegance appealed to those seeking a refined, yet practical, vehicle.

The Bad

The 2001 Passat is known for potential issues with its electrical system, including sensor failures and wiring problems. The automatic transmission can be prone to failure, especially with infrequent maintenance. Oil sludge can be a problem in the 1.8T engine if oil changes are neglected. Suspension components, particularly control arms, may require replacement over time.

2001 Volkswagen Passat: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 1.8L Turbocharged Inline-4: Available in GL, GLS
    • 2.8L V6: Available in GLS, GLX
  • Horsepower:
    • 1.8T: 150 hp
    • V6: 190 hp
  • Fuel Economy (Estimated):
    • 1.8T: 21 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
    • V6: 17 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
  • 0-60 Times (Estimated):
    • 1.8T: 8.5-9.0 seconds
    • V6: 7.5-8.0 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing.
  • Trim Level Features:
    • GL: Standard features included air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a basic audio system.
    • GLS: Added features such as alloy wheels, upgraded audio system, and available sunroof. Often included more options packages.
    • GLX: Top-of-the-line trim included leather upholstery, wood trim, automatic climate control, and sometimes premium audio systems and upgraded wheels.

2001 Volkswagen Passat Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2001
Make Volkswagen
Model Passat
Trim -
Style -
Type Sedan
Category Mid-Size Station Wagon
Manufacturing Details
Made In Germany
Manufacturing City EMDEN
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight 3574 pounds
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine 2.8 6
Engine Size 2.8L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission -
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds -
Drivetrain All-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $27,675
Invoice Price $25,493
Delivery Charges $525

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What Problems Does the 2001 Volkswagen Passat Have?

The 2001 Volkswagen Passat, like other models in its generation, is prone to several frequently reported problems. One of the most common issues is oil sludge in the 1.8T engine, especially if regular oil changes with synthetic oil were not performed. This can lead to engine damage and failure. The automatic transmission is another area of concern, with reports of slipping, rough shifting, and outright failure, particularly in higher-mileage examples. Regular transmission fluid changes are crucial but don't always prevent issues.
Electrical problems are also common, including issues with sensors (such as the mass airflow sensor), power windows, and the central locking system. Suspension components, particularly the control arms and bushings, tend to wear out over time, leading to clunking noises and poor handling. The plastic coolant flange on the back of the engine is known to crack and leak. There have been recalls for issues such as faulty ignition coils (primarily affecting the 1.8T engine) and potential fuel leaks. Long-term reliability can be a concern due to the complexity of the vehicle and the potential for expensive repairs. Checking the vehicle's history for maintenance records and addressing any warning signs promptly is essential.

How long will the 2001 Volkswagen Passat last?

With proper maintenance, a 2001 Volkswagen Passat can reach 200,000 miles or more. However, longevity heavily depends on diligent maintenance and repair. Many examples are still on the road after 20+ years, but they likely require ongoing maintenance. Key to long-term durability is addressing issues like oil sludge in the 1.8T engine, transmission problems, and electrical faults. Neglecting maintenance can significantly shorten the vehicle's lifespan. Weaknesses include the aforementioned issues, as well as potential corrosion, particularly in regions with harsh winters.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2001 Volkswagen Passat offered a decent level of tech and safety features for its time. Standard entertainment features typically included an AM/FM radio with a cassette player (later models sometimes had a CD player). Higher trims could include upgraded sound systems with more speakers. Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern cars, but included cruise control.

Safety features were a priority, with standard equipment including anti-lock brakes (ABS), dual front airbags, and side airbags were optional. Electronic Stability Program (ESP) was available on some models. Optional features included a sunroof, leather seats, and automatic climate control.

Crash test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) were generally good for the 2001 Passat. It earned good ratings in frontal offset crash tests and acceptable ratings in side-impact tests. However, it is crucial to remember that safety standards have evolved significantly since 2001, and newer vehicles offer far superior safety technology.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Black Magic Pearl
Reflex Silver Metallic
Wheat Beige Metallic
Bright Green Metallic
Cosmic Green Pearl
Indigo Blue Pearl
Pastel Yellow
Arctic White
Interior Colors
Anthracite
Beige
Gray

2001 Volkswagen Passat Prices and Market Value

The 2001 Volkswagen Passat had a starting MSRP of around $21,000 for the base GL trim, while the top-of-the-line GLX could reach $30,000 fully equipped. As expected, these vehicles have depreciated significantly. Current used market prices typically range from $1,000 to $4,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim level. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition, maintenance history, mileage, and whether major repairs have been addressed. Examples with documented service records and no major mechanical issues command higher prices. The Passat's age and potential for costly repairs contribute to its steep depreciation.

2001 Volkswagen Passat Cost of Ownership

The 2001 Volkswagen Passat can be relatively costly to own long-term. Insurance costs are moderate, but fuel economy is average for its class. Maintenance and repair costs can be higher than average due to the potential for mechanical issues and the need for specialized parts and labor. Oil sludge prevention and transmission maintenance are crucial. While the initial purchase price is low, potential repair bills can quickly add up, making it less economical than some of its rivals.

2001 Volkswagen Passat Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 16.4 gallons
City Mileage 15 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage 22 miles/gallon

2001 Volkswagen Passat Safety Rating

NHTSA
Side Driver Rating
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating
Side Rear Passenger Rating
Frontal Driver Rating
IIHS
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Not Tested
Side Impact Test Results Not Tested

2001 Volkswagen Passat Recalls & Defects

Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly:filler Pipe and CAP
Recall date 2002-01-25
Recall no. 02v026000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Some Passenger Vehicles, THE Fuel Tank Filler Neck CAN Suffer Abrasion Damage IF THE Rear Tire Goes Flat and THE Vehicle IS Driven Until THE Tire Disintegrates.
Consequence Fuel Leakage CAN Occur Increasing THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy Dealers Will FIT Passat Vehicles With A NEW Wheel House Liner That Will Better Protect THE Car's Filler Neck. Jetta Vehicles Will BE Fitted With A Different Metal Shield Designed TO Enhance Abrasion Protection IN THE Event OF Tire Disintegration. Owner Notification Began June 13, 2003. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Volkswagen AT 1-800-822-8987.
Notes Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly
Recall date 2001-05-03
Recall no. 01v157000
Source NHTSA
Summary Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles. Sulfur IN Fuel Interacts With Certain Additives Found IN Widely Available Gasoline Causing Sulfur TO Become Deposited ON THE Contact Points OF Three Fuel Sending Units Mounted Inside THE Fuel Tank. This Could Cause THE Fuel Gauge TO Read Full While THE Fuel Tank MAY NOT IN Fact BE Full or Could BE Empty.
Consequence Running OUT OF Fuel Without Warning While THE Fuel Gauge Indicates That There IS Sufficient Fuel IN THE Tank Lead TO Safety Problems.
Remedy Dealers Will Remove THE Existing Fuel Level Sending Units and Replace Them With Fuel Level Sending Units Using A NEW Alloy Composed OF Gold, Silver, and A Small Amount OF Nickel, Which Will NOT Chemically React With Sulfur. Vw/Audi Will Also Call Back Vehicles That Were Repaired Under A Previous Recall Last June IN Order TO Install THE Updated Fuel Sending Units Nhtsa 00v137/Audi Lb). Owner Notification Began MAY 1, 2001. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Audi AT 1-866-892-2834.
Notes Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery
Recall date 2008-04-07
Recall no. 08v156000
Source NHTSA
Summary Volkswagen IS Recalling 412,000 MY 1999-2005 Passat (5th Generation) Vehicles Equipped With Automatic Transmissions and Produced After June 14, 1999. These Vehicles MAY Have AN Underbody Heat Shield That CAN Become Damaged. IN Addition, Affected Vehicles With Automatic or Manual Transmissions MAY Have A Fuel Line (1.8t Engines Only) or Fuel Tank Ventilation Valve (4motion/All Wheel Drive Only) That CAN Leak DUE TO Fracture.
Consequence A Heat Shield That MAY Contact THE Exhaust System CAN Result IN A Vehicle Fire. IN Addition, A Fuel Leak From A Fuel Line or Fuel Tank Ventilation Valve, IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source, CAN Lead TO A Vehicle Fire.
Remedy Dealers Will Install Additional Underbody Heat Shields ON Vehicles With Automatic Transmissions TO Cover THE Possibly Damaged Areas and Flash All 1.8t Engines With A Precautionary Software Update. Dealers Will Also Inspect and Adjust THE Fuel Line Routing ON 1.8t Vehicles and THE Fuel Tank Ventilation Valve ON 4motion/All Wheel Drive Vehicles, and Replace Components IF Necessary Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON June 13, 2008. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen AT 1-800-822-8987.
Notes Vwoa Recall NO. 26e5/R5.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://www.safercar.gov.
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine
Recall date 2014-03-07
Recall no. 14e007000
Source NHTSA
Summary THE Gates Corporation (Gates) IS Recalling Certain Aftermarket Tru-Flow Water Pumps, Part Number TFW 41127, Sold AT Certain Napa Auto Parts And/Or Installed BY Automotive Service Technicians After November 1, 2013 (And Manufactured August 2013 Through October 2013) That Have A Black-Colored Pulley/Sprocket or DO NOT Have 'us9377' Stamped ON THE Water Pump Housing. These Service Replacement Parts Were Sold FOR USE IN Model Year 1999-2005 Audi A4, 2000-2006 Audi TT, 1998-2005 Volkswagen Beetle, 1999-2006 Golf, 1999-2008 and 2011-2013 Volkswagen Jetta, and 2000-2005 Volkswagen Passat. IN THE Affected Water Pumps, THE Pulley or Sprocket That Turns THE Timing Belt MAY Develop Microfractures Causing THE Timing Belt TO Fail.
Consequence A Failure OF THE Timing Belt MAY Cause THE Engine TO Shut Down, Potentially Increasing THE Risk OF A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Gates Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Water Pump, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began During MAY 2014. Owners MAY Contact THE Gates Corporation AT 1-303-744-1911.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2001 Volkswagen Passat Insurance

Insurance for a 2001 Volkswagen Passat is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2001 Volkswagen Passat Compare to Other Sedan?

The 2001 Volkswagen Passat competed with vehicles like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Mazda 626. In terms of performance, the Passat's 1.8T engine offered decent power and fuel economy, but the V6 was less competitive than the V6 options in the Accord and Camry. Feature-wise, the Passat offered a more upscale interior than its Japanese rivals but lacked some of their standard features.

Reliability is where the Passat significantly trailed the Accord and Camry, which were known for their long-term dependability. The Mazda 626 offered a balance of reliability and affordability, making it a strong contender. Price-wise, the Passat was generally comparable to its rivals when new, but its steeper depreciation makes it more affordable on the used market.

If reliability is a top priority, the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry are better alternatives. If you're looking for a similar level of European refinement with potentially better reliability, consider a slightly newer Acura TSX or Lexus IS, though they will come at a higher price point. If you are willing to take on the potential for more maintenance in exchange for the Passat's unique characteristics, be sure to get a pre-purchase inspection.

Ranks #2086 Sedan

1 2023 Toyota Camry (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda Accord (0.0★)
3 2023 Lexus ES (0.0★)
4 2024 Subaru Legacy (5.0★)
5 2022 Mazda MX-30 (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW M3 (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Mustang (5.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT (0.0★)
9 2023 Audi A3 (0.0★)
10 2023 Chevrolet Camaro (5.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan Altima (4.0★)
2086 2001 Volkswagen Passat (4.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2001 Volkswagen Passat a Good Sedan?

The 2001 Volkswagen Passat is ideal for someone who appreciates European styling and a comfortable ride and is willing to accept the potential for higher maintenance costs. It's worth buying *used* if you find a well-maintained example with documented service records, particularly one where common issues like oil sludge and transmission problems have been addressed. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is essential. The GLX trim offers the most features, but a well-equipped GLS can be a good compromise. Avoid examples with excessively high mileage or signs of neglect, as repairs can quickly outweigh the vehicle's value. It's not a car for those seeking ultimate reliability but can be a rewarding purchase for the right buyer.

2001 Volkswagen Passat Owner Reviews

4.13
Consumer Rating, Based on 39 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Joshua ellis on January 7, 2024

2001 Volkswagen passat v6 glx

I got my 2001 passat v6 glx with 78k.It has a new timing belt done in 20 I had a flex pipe issue that caused a check engine light but only because the o2 sensor was after the leak obviously giving the computer bad info that's why it was parked for 3 years check your drains it will total your car id the computers get damaged from water especially under your battery. The v6 pulls pretty well 3rd gear in the tip mode is fun soft ride I would recommend getting aftermarket springs and struts and upgrade the wheels to a newer Volkswagen model. Enjoy your purchase if buying one congratulations it's a keeper.

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Lucky on April 4, 2020

Great reliable car, fun to drive!

Sure, things on a 19 year old car wear out and break. These cars are easy to fix and parts are available and cheap online. There are many YouTube videos that show you how to diagnose and repair common problems with VW's. My Passat has great handling and decent power with the turbo charged 1.8 4 cylinder and 5 speed transmission. Stay away from the automatic transmission models. Mine has 189k miles on it and expecting it to go to at least 250k.

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Tina Kane on February 18, 2020

Fun to drive money pit

I bought this car in 2016 with a 130k in mileage. I needed a commuting vehicle as I was driving 300 miles a week. As soon as I purchased the vehicle I put close to 3k in it to change belts, redo the brakes, spark plugs and other minor things and figured I would be set. Boy was I wrong. With in the first 2 years owning this vehicle I put close to 10k in repairs in the vehicle, vacuum lines, alternator, fuel filter, CV, Boots, 3 sets of tie rods, upper and lower control arms, AC system, Transmission seals/gasket, timing belt, coolant tank replacement 3 times, transmission and coolant flushing, bearings for front wheels, axel replacement, rack and pin pieces and the entire exhaust along with muffler. The long and short of it was a fun car to drive, it had a sun roof, heated seats, turbo and a sun shade for the back window that kept the sun off my toddler while driving. The cost to repair the vehicle is crazy expensive, you would have thought I was driving a BMW or Lexus. The positive about the car is that I was on the original Clutch and original Turbo with 200k on the vehicle. I was rear ended from a stopped position by a person going 30-40 mph and the vehicle held up extremely well. I wont every by a VW again not worth the small fortune I spent to keep it on the road.

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RDUflyer on January 24, 2019

First VW ... and the last

I bought the 2001.5 Passat (I think the body style was updated halfway through 2001) new. While I really enjoyed how it drove — a lot of fun on the highway — it was really expensive to maintain. I had an oil pan replaced among other issues. The final straw was when the front axle completely broke while driving around a roundabout one evening. Dumped it after that and got a Ford Escape, which has been way more reliable and more affordable to maintain. Premium gas for the V6 really sucked, too. Overall, a fun car to drive but a complete money pit. I won't buy a VW ever again.

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BJLIONS on December 3, 2018

Great on gas mileage.

I drive a VW PASSAT as my daily driver, dependable. Turbo is nice for going fast. Only bad thing is trying to get parts since it is foreignly made. Found a good site, problem solved.

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nasahrsandi9 on March 4, 2018

Reliable, comfortable, and stylish

I own a 2001.5 V6 4motion GLX sedan. So far the car has been very reliable. Ive owned it since DEC2016 Has never failed to start once. Ive only had to do preventive/basic maintance. The car looks great and is a joy drive because of how quiet and smooth it runs. At times you will not even feel or hear the engine running, and when you do its a very pleasent sound. The V6 has a good amount of torque but the car is slightly heavy. The great thing is overall the Passat has a very solid substantial feel on the road, you feel confident and safe when driving it. Its also an excellent highway cruiser. The main problem these cars have (especially the V6 models) is very slight coolant and engine oil leaks which can be fixed by getting gaskets seals and hoses replaced. The car is worth the cost to buy and get the leaks fixed if you can afford it. Besides that for a german engineered car these vehicles seem to be very reliable. The only thing expensive on them is labor cost because to do anything under the hood, basically the entire front end has to come off. If you can afford the maintance and the gas for the V6 (premium fuel 15mpg city) This car is worth it. It drives like an audi for the fraction of the price. I would go for a fully loaded model with the 4motion awd system. That system basically transforms the vehicle. This is a vehicle with a very premium feel and drive at a very low price. Just test drive one, it might suprise you. The first time i test drove my candy white passat (gorgeous but rare color) i was not only shocked by how nice it was but I was sold, I had to have it.

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HDEEZ on September 12, 2017

Worst car ever

This car was a piece of junk. I had to have the oil pan replaced, the wiring related to the ignition and then the ignition starter

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RobertMars on August 23, 2017

Excellent!

3rd car coming from owning Toyota's and this car tops those 2. Great handling and smooth ride especially with mine being a daily driver and having 250k+ miles and counting. Had a few issues but why take it to a VW dealer when you know they're going to charge you an arm and a leg for a 2001? I'm no mechanic but I've read forums, worked on this car myself and issues I couldn't handle myself (since I don't have a place to work on it) just take it to a mechanic with the parts ordered from Amazon to fix it for a lot cheaper than a dealer. I'm definitely going to purchase another with less miles and work on it when I can but for now I'm enjoying my current Passat. German Engineering for the win!

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PVTSandi on July 14, 2017

Great German engineering

Drives like a dream, very comfortable, stylish for the year (2001.5 models). Expensive to maintain when something does finally go wrong, but other than that very reliable.

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gpo20 on June 26, 2017

REPAIR COSTS

Decent car to drive around but once it breaks it definitely will cost you to repair. A Lot of mechanics will charge you for every little thing they do and with this car changing a light bulb is near impossible with out removing other parts .

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Cathleen V

Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.