The problem
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2012-2014 Passat vehicles equipped with TDI engines. Due to improperly assembled wire seals in a connector for an underbody sensor, water may enter and corrode the electrical connectors of the sensor, causing an electrical short.
The risk
An electrical short can cause the electrical connectors of the sensor to overheat, increasing the risk of a fire.
The fix
Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the connector, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began in September. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 23T3.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 16V-171 (16V171000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 23T3 |
| Manufacturer | Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. |
| Component | Electrical system › Wiring |
| Report date | March 24, 2016 |
| Owners notified | September 15, 2016 |
| Vehicles affected | 91,442 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the electrical system
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 16V-171 repair free?
Yes. Volkswagen dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the connector, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began in September. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 23T3.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 91,442 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.