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P0016 on VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

Severity
Medium
NHTSA Reports
2
Most Affected
2006, 2010

What P0016 Means on Your VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

Real VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT Owner Reports (Source: NHTSA Complaints Database)

"While driving on a busy highway in philadelphia pa (schuylkill expressway), my 2006 vw passat 3.6l 4 motion lost power and limped to the side of the road almost causing several accidents in the process."

— 2006 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT owner • ENGINE • Filed 07/15/2012

"My volkswagen passat has fallen to an issue many others have fallen. it appears the timing-chain tensioner failed causing the timing-chain to jump. when this happens the valves can bend and also ruin the cylinders. the error code is p0016. vw west broad is recommending a repair of $5,100 dollars."

— 2010 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT owner • ENGINE • Filed 06/14/2020

Data from NHTSA Vehicle Complaints Database. All reports are filed by vehicle owners directly with the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Common Causes of P0016 on VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT

100%

Percentages based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.

Complaint Trend by Year

2006
1
2010
1

What To Do Next

  1. 1
    Check for recalls on YOUR VIN

    Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. Free repairs if your vehicle is covered.

  2. 2
    Get a proper diagnosis

    A code alone doesn't tell you the exact failed part. A diagnostic at a shop ($50-$150) pinpoints the root cause before you spend money on parts.

  3. 3
    Compare repair quotes

    Get 2-3 quotes. Dealer vs independent shop prices often differ 30-50% for the same repair.

P0016 on Other Vehicles

Data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (U.S. Department of Transportation) and the SAE J2012 OBD-II standard. Code definitions follow the SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6 standard. Owner reports are filed directly with NHTSA by vehicle owners. This information is provided for educational purposes only and should not replace professional automotive diagnosis. Always consult a qualified mechanic for vehicle repair decisions.

Last updated: March 2026