If you are the owner of a 2013 Vw Passat Tdi, or a model from 2012 or 2014, and your vehicle received the emissions modification as part of the Volkswagen settlement, it’s crucial to be aware of a newly identified potential issue. Volkswagen has acknowledged a problem with the emissions “fix” that could impact your car’s performance, and it requires your prompt attention. For those with affected vehicles who have not yet undergone the modification, there’s also an important decision to make. Volkswagen will be sending out official letters detailing this situation, but here are the essential facts you need to know immediately.
This situation stems from the 2016 lawsuits brought against Volkswagen by government agencies and vehicle owners. These lawsuits alleged that Volkswagen intentionally installed “defeat devices” in their 2.0L diesel vehicles to circumvent emissions testing. To resolve these legal challenges, Volkswagen reached a settlement offering owners two choices: either have their vehicles modified to meet emissions standards and receive a cash payment, or have Volkswagen buy back their vehicles.
Potential Issue with the Emissions Modification in 2012-2014 Passat TDI Models
It has been identified that the emissions modification applied to 2012, 2013, and 2014 Passat 2.0L TDI models may not perform adequately under certain driving conditions. Specifically, when these modified Passats are driven at sustained high speeds – typically above 80 miles per hour for periods of 15 minutes or more – they may not inject a sufficient amount of diesel exhaust fluid (DEF). It’s important to note that the 15-minute duration doesn’t need to be continuous; it can accumulate over multiple instances of high-speed driving.
Continuing to drive at these speeds after the issue occurs can lead to a dashboard warning light illuminating, indicating a malfunction in your emission system. This may be followed by a warning chime. In a more serious scenario, after stopping the car, you might find that it will not restart.
Image alt text: Dashboard warning light illuminated in a Volkswagen Passat TDI, signaling a potential emissions system malfunction.
Immediate Actions for Passat TDI Owners:
If the Warning Light is On: If you observe the emission system warning light in your 2013 VW Passat TDI (or 2012, 2014 models), it is recommended to visit your nearest Volkswagen dealership as soon as possible. Volkswagen will address the warning light issue free of charge. Until you have your vehicle checked by a dealer, it is crucial to avoid driving above 80 miles per hour.
If the Warning Light is Not On: Even if you haven’t experienced the warning light, as a precautionary measure, refrain from driving your modified 2013 VW Passat TDI at speeds exceeding 80 miles per hour.
Volkswagen’s Solution: Software Update
Volkswagen is currently developing a software update designed to resolve this issue. This update will be provided to owners free of charge. Once the software update is ready and available, Volkswagen will send out notifications to affected Passat TDI owners. Upon receiving this notification, you can schedule an appointment with your local Volkswagen dealer to have the software update installed. Alternatively, you can have the update applied when you bring your Passat in for any routine service. However, until this software update is implemented, it is essential to maintain a speed below 80 mph.
Options for Owners Who Have Not Yet Received the Modification
If you own a 2012, 2013, or 2014 Passat 2.0L TDI and have not yet had the emissions modification performed, you still have the option to choose either a vehicle buyback or early lease termination instead of the modification. Even if you were initially considering the modification, you can still opt for the buyback or lease termination. To explore these options, contact 1‑844‑98‑CLAIM by the deadline specified in the letter you will receive from Volkswagen. If you still prefer the modification, it’s advisable to wait until Volkswagen announces that the software update is available to fix the reported high-speed issue before proceeding with the modification.
Additional Information and Resources
For Further Details: To get more comprehensive information about this potential issue with the engine modification, you can contact Volkswagen directly at 1-800-893-5298 or visit their website at www.vw.com/contact.
Direct Communication from Volkswagen: Yes, Volkswagen will be sending out letters directly to affected owners. Keep an eye on your mail for an official letter from Volkswagen. If you do not receive a letter within the next few days, it is recommended to contact them at 1‑800‑893‑5298.
Issue Specific to Passat TDI Models: Volkswagen has stated that this specific issue is only observed in 2012, 2013, and 2014 2.0L Passat TDI models that have received the emissions modification. It is not reported to affect other 2.0L or 3.0L Volkswagen vehicles that have undergone similar modifications.
Check for Recalls: To verify if your 2013 VW Passat TDI (or other VW model) is subject to this or any other recalls, you can visit www.vw.com/owners-recalls and use the Recall/Service Campaign Lookup Tool by entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
By staying informed and taking the recommended actions, 2013 VW Passat TDI owners can ensure the continued safe and efficient operation of their vehicles.
