AI-generated · grounded in NHTSA data
Reliability & 5-year cost of ownership — 2018 Volkswagen Passat
Overall rating NHTSA-grounded
Average
Estimated 5-year repair + maintenance cost: $6,200–$8,500
The 2018 Volkswagen Passat has an average reliability rating due to recalls affecting the brakes and lighting. Complaints commonly revolve around brakes and engine issues, but overall it maintains reasonable performance for its class.
Most-common failures
| Part | Typical mileage | Cost range | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| service brakes | 40,000–70,000 miles | $300–$700 | very common |
| engine | 50,000–80,000 miles | $500–$2,000 | common |
| electrical system | 60,000–90,000 miles | $200–$800 | common |
Scheduled maintenance to budget
Routine items every owner should plan for.
- Oil change every 10,000 miles
- Tire rotation every 10,000 miles
- Replace spark plugs at 40,000 miles
- Brake fluid change every 2 years
- Cabin filter replacement annually
Warning signs to watch for
Symptoms that signal a major upcoming repair.
- Squealing brakes when slowing down
- Frequent engine stalling
- Electrical issues with dashboard
- Unusual noises during acceleration
Generated by gpt-4o on 8/18/2026. Cost ranges are conservative estimates that account for typical regional variation.