The vehicle has been alerting error codes 16352 for failing to communicate with ABS module causing warning lights for ABS, brake and the ESC systems to illuminate. The brake system related vehicle stabilizing functions (ABS/ESC) is not be available, increasing the risk of a loss of vehicle control and could lead to a crash causing injury and/or property damage. Please reference Safety Recall Code…
2016 volkswagen Passat electrical problems
severe 17 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $850
Complaints
17
Recalls
0
Crashes
1
Avg fix
$850
What owners are reporting 3 most recent
THE ABS SENSOR SYSTEM HAS FAILED ON OUR CAR FOR THE 2ND TIME . THE FIRST TIME IT OCCURRED ON THE LEFT REAR WHEEL IN 2019. WHEN THE SYSTEM FAILS IT TRIGGERS A MULTITUDE OF DASHBOARD ALERTS WHICH ARE EXTREMELY DISTRACTING. OBVIOUSLY THE AUTOMATIC BRAKING WILL NOT FUNCTION. THE FIRST OCCURRENCE WAS AT 43, 705 MILES. I WAS TOLD BY A VW DEALER MECHANIC THAT THIS WAS LIKELY TO OCCUR ON THE OTHER WHEELS.…
THERE IS ISSUE WITH HMI (RADIO) AND INSTRUMENT PANEL CLUSTER. THE SCREEN GOES FREEZE. THIS ISSUE IS SPORADIC, AND I AM CONCERNED ABOUT SAFETY OF MYSELF AND FAMILY. I AM AFRAID WHILE DRIVING SUDDENLY INSTRUMENT PANEL CLUSTER IPC SCREEN GOES FREEZE NOT ABLE TO SEE WHAT MY VEHICLE SPEED IS CURRENTLY. SUDDENLY IF I AM NOT AWARE WHAT SPEED I AM DRIVING, THE CONTROL ABILITY OF CAR IS LESS LEAVING MYSELF…
Common questions
How serious is the electrical problem on the 2016 volkswagen Passat?
It's a meaningful issue. 17 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $850.
At what mileage does the electrical typically fail?
Mileage data is limited for this issue. Owners report failures across a wide range, suggesting cause is more about driving conditions and maintenance than mileage alone.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $850 for electrical repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to electrical?
No active recalls currently cover electrical issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Other problem areas on this vehicle
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities.
Repair cost estimates are independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area.
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