Is a 2016 VW Passat 2.0 TDI reliable?

How reliable is a 2.0-litre diesel Volkswagen Passat from 2016?

Wayne P Daniels (Waterford)

Nov 2025 Filed under: reliability

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Expert answer

Hi Wayne,

The 2016 Passat 2.0 TDI is one of the more reliable diesel models of its generation, though as with all of them you need to keep your eyes open for things like clogged DPFs and AdBlue issues.

Another known issue with the EGR cooler or valve causes rough running and poor economy and that's expensive to fix, but it won't affect all cars.

Finally, as most examples will be of high mileage, insist on a detailed service history and, if you go for one of these cars, invest in rear suspension bushes if there's no sign of them ever being done, as it will massively improve how the car rides and handles.

All cars of that age will need some maintenance, but the Passat is certainly one of the more dependable choices – so long as it has been properly maintained.

Shane O' Donoghue - Complete Car Advisor