Two problems related to trunk lid lock have been reported for the 1996 Volkswagen Passat. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Door handles wore out within three years of the life of the vehicle. Consumer had two vehicles that had defective door handles. Not long after owning the vehicle the consumer was unable to open any of the doors from the inside. Dealer found the worn door lock assembly needed to be replaced. Broken outside mirror switch replaced. Trunk lock was loose.
The inside trunk release has failed twice. Both rear door latches have failed. Rear drivers side door will not open at all. The rear passenger side door can only be opened from the outside. Passengers in the rear can not open the rear car doors.
| Door Latch problems | |
| Trunk Lid Lock problems | |
| Latches/locks/linkage problems |