Six problems related to engine rattling and whining sounds have been reported for the 2013 Volkswagen Passat. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2013 Volkswagen Passat based on all problems reported for the 2013 Passat.
Turbocharger failure at 15,000 miles; replaced and 2nd turbo failed at 25,000 miles. First failure was documented in a prior report and is repeated here. Failure 1 at ~15,000 miles in June 2014. Driving at highway speed in moderately heavy traffic at night, sudden complete loss of power. Was able to safely maneuver to shoulder and vehicle was then engulfed in black smoke. Was on the side of the highway for 1. 5 hours waiting for tow truck sent by vw roadside assistance. Lots of traffic passing by very close and at highway speeds. The turbo was replaced under warranty. Failure 2 at ~25,000 miles in March 2015. Driving on local road, no shoulder, at 30-40 mph. Noticed intermittent whining noise and partial loss of power. Was able to drive home. Car was towed to dealership next day where they are currently replacing the turbo again.
Turbo failure. Whining sound coming from engine compartment. Louder as engine rpm's increase. This is the second failure of a turbo in this car. Fortunately, I caught it in time to not lose power. After tow in to dealership, they confirmed that it needs another replacement turbo to replace the first replacement turbo.
Turbo failed for second time and after only 4,000 miles. Began as whining noise. Vehicle then showed check engine light and wouldn't accelerate above 1st gear.
Vehicle was accelerating away from a stop light when a loud "crack" was heard followed by a loud grinding and whistling sound, the car lost power. My wife fortunately was able to coast to the shoulder of the road and turn into a residential street. After coming to a stop the engine was still running she was able to move the car at a very slow speed (car would go no faster than about 10 mph) to a business parking lot and call Volkswagen roadside assistance and waited for a tow truck to take our car to the nearest Volkswagen dealer. The following day the dealer service adviser informed us of the turbo failure.
Vehicle was down on power with noticeable turbocharger whining noise. Vehicle was taken to dealership, turbocharger was replaced. Original turbo had damage on impeller and turbo housing.
Turbo failed on vehicle. Began as whining noise. Vehicle then showed check engine light and wouldn't accelerate above 1st gear.