2021 VOLKSWAGEN Passat

Recalls, Specs & Safety Report

1RecallsNHTSA Verified0ComplaintsLimited Data0InvestigationsLimited Data
Expert Verdict
โœ“Good Reliability

This 2021 model shows good reliability, primarily driven by a below-average recall rate for the VOLKSWAGEN brand.

Key Factor:below-average recall rate

๐Ÿ“‹Why This Matters

Understanding recall history helps predict future ownership costs. Each unaddressed issue represents potential repair expenses.

Insurance companies review vehicle reliability data when setting premiums. Models with elevated recall rates often see adjusted pricing.

Focus Area:general reliability
๐Ÿ“Š

Expert Analysis

  • ๐Ÿ“ˆ
    Recall Trend:No Change in recalls
  • โš ๏ธ
    Primary Risk Area:Various
  • โš–๏ธ
    Vs Brand: Better than avg (3.0)
    ๐Ÿ“
    Summary:
Critical Component: Various

Safety & Reliability Score

90/100
Excellent

Score Breakdown

Recall Impact-8
Complaint Impact-1.75
Investigation Impact-0

Technical Specifications

Key specifications for the 2021 VOLKSWAGEN Passat

Model Year2021
MakeVOLKSWAGEN
ModelPassat
Fuel TypeGasoline
Body ClassPassenger Vehicle

Safety History Timeline

Oct13
ISSUEFirst Report
Jan21
NEWProduction
Jan21
RECALLRecall Issued
โœ…

No Consumer Complaints Reported

Great news! There are currently no consumer complaints on file with NHTSA for the 2021 VOLKSWAGEN Passat. This is a positive indicator of owner satisfaction.

๐Ÿ› ๏ธ DIY Diagnosis Center

Experiencing an issue? Select a symptom to find official manufacturer solutions (TSBs).

Primary Risk Areas

WHEELS

Official Safety Recalls (1)

Campaign: 21V812000

WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS

Summary

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Atlas, Atlas Cross Sport, and Passat vehicles. The front wheel bearing bolts may have been incorrectly tightened.

Consequence

The bolts may loosen and cause a loss of control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect the tightness of the wheel bearing bolts and replace the bolts, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 2, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 40R7.

Additional 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.nhtsa.gov.

Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.

NHTSA Investigations

0 investigations
โœ“

No active investigations for this vehicle.

Consumer Complaints

0 complaints
โœ“

No consumer complaints recorded for this vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any recalls for the 2021 VOLKSWAGEN Passat?

Yes, the 2021 VOLKSWAGEN Passat has 1 recorded recall from NHTSA. These recalls cover various components including WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS.

Is the 2021 VOLKSWAGEN Passat safe to drive?

The 2021 VOLKSWAGEN Passat has 1 recall. If you own this vehicle, check with your dealer to ensure all recall repairs have been completed. Most recalls have free remedies available.

Where can I check if my 2021 VOLKSWAGEN Passat has open recalls?

You can check for open recalls by visiting NHTSA.gov and entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), or by contacting your local VOLKSWAGEN dealer.

๐Ÿ“ŠYear-over-Year Context

๐Ÿ“ˆImproving Trend

Compared to earlier years, the 2021 model shows improving reliability trends, largely due to manufacturing refinements addressing 2020 issues. Recall frequency decreased 67%.

๐ŸŽฏRisk Areas & Recommended Actions

Based on recall data, these components require verification:

1

Wheels

Issue: increases crash or loss-of-control risk

โœ…

If you already own this vehicle: Contact your dealer immediately to confirm wheels recall is complete. Recall repairs are always free.

๐Ÿ”

If you are evaluating a used example: Request VIN and verify all wheels recalls are completed before purchase.

Campaign:21V812000
๐Ÿ’กVisit NHTSA.gov or contact your VOLKSWAGEN dealer to verify recall completion status.

๐ŸงญWhat This Means for You

Both current owners and prospective buyers benefit from reviewing this safety analysis before making decisions.

If you're unsure, we recommend starting with a VIN check or consulting a certified mechanic.

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If You Own This Vehicle

  • Verify all 1 recalls have been completed using your VIN at NHTSA.gov or through your VOLKSWAGEN dealer.
  • If any recalls are open, schedule service immediatelyโ€”recall repairs are always free.
  • Consider setting up VIN-specific alerts to receive notification of future recalls.
๐Ÿ›’

If You're Buying Used

  • Request the VIN before purchase and verify recall status at NHTSA.gov.
  • This model year shows favorable reliability metrics compared to alternatives.
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Data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Last updated: January 10, 2026.