Three problems related to instrument panel have been reported for the 2006 Volkswagen Passat. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2006 Volkswagen Passat based on all problems reported for the 2006 Passat.
1a. I inserted the key fod and the "steering wheel" light on the instrument panel flashed yellow and the mfd on the instrument panel said, "steering column lock malfunction. Go to vw dealer immediately" 1b. Other times, it's the same, but the "steering wheel" light flashes with red light. 1c. Other times, I must insert the key fod anywhere from 5-20 times before the car even starts. The car won't start and I must repeat the process until it does. 2. It occurs at least 5-9 times per week with the yellow light flashing, 3-5 times a week with red light flashing, and 1-3 times per week when I must repeat the inserting of key fod to turn on. 3a. The vw dealer says they have seen this problem and it usually runs $1500-$2200 to fix. They said they usually replace the steering column module (computer board stuff) and the steering column as well. They say the problem is cause by the module going bad and not responding and telling the computer to turn the car on. 3b. The vw corporate customer care said they cannot help because warranty has expired. I have about 60k miles and warranty expired at 50k miles. . Read more...
The contact owns a 2006 Volkswagen Passat. When the contact started the ignition, the engine stalled and the "important steering column defective" warning indicator illuminated on the instrument panel. She experienced difficulty starting the engine on separate occasions. Also, the ignition key would not disengage without making several attempts. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer for diagnostic testing and repaired for the malfunction. The contact is waiting for a response from the dealer. The contact was concerned of the safety risk involved. The VIN was unknown. The failure and current mileages were 66,700.
The check engine light came on and stayed on while driving my 2006 Volkswagen Passat. It took the dealer 4 attempts to fix the problem. First they reset the computer two times. The third time they replaced a part. The fourth time they replace the turbocharger. Since this last fix the light has come on once then went off. It now is off while driving.