Steering Anti-theft Device Problems of Volkswagen Passat

In April 2009, while driving, the "steering column lock defect" message appeared. As directed, took it immediately to dealership. After service, they indicated no problem could be found. After this, I would have this same error message appear when trying to start the car. Many times, it would take 5-10 minutes of trying before the vehicle would start. Had it in for other service over the past year & each time relayed the problem. They never could diagnose it & said it was probably just an issue with the computer. In April of 2010, the problem started occurring more & more frequently. In late may 2010, could not get the vehicle to start after same steering column lock message. Then could not remove the key. Finally got the key out; however, the dash and internal lights stayed on and ran down the battery. Was able to get a charge to the battery but then the anti-theft system immobilizer engaged rendering the vehicle unusable. After a year of repeatedly taking the car to the dealership, it is now back there but it had to be towed. Doing research I have found that this seems to be a very common occurrence with this make and model of car; however, no recalls, etc. Have been issued and obviously the local dealership was unable to diagnose/fix the problem before it came to the point of the car being totally unusable.

See all problems of the 2006 Volkswagen Passat 🔎.

After three repairs the anti-theft system fails to operate.

See all problems of the 1998 Volkswagen Passat 🔎.