One problem related to steering column has been reported for the 2001 Volkswagen Passat. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2001 Volkswagen Passat based on all problems reported for the 2001 Passat.
At 13,000 miles, steering column began to "clunk" when turning the wheel. New steering column installed under warranty. At 27,000 miles, same problem returned. Informed by a mechanic that issue may be due to design of column universal joint when passing through firewall (sharp angle leads to more stress and likely failure over time. ) when warranty expires, this will become my issue.