VW Passat B7 1.4 TSI, 160 PS, 6-speed manual (2012–2014)

Research for this car

• Generation guide VW Passat B7 (2010-2014): known problems and buying guide

  Buy a B7 with a full service history and proof of gearbox oil changes, and skip a 1.8 TSI that burns oil or a DSG that shudders.

• Engine guide VW 1.2 TSI and 1.4 TSI (EA111) petrol engines: problems, costs and what to check

  The timing chain and oil use are the known weak points. Buy only with chain paperwork and a clean oil check.

Known issues for this car

Before you buy this car

From the generation guide

1. Check the front suspension for knocks over speed bumps. Look for leaking dampers and worn front tyres. Wishbone bushes and drop links are the usual worn parts.
2. Check the tailgate outer edge, the number plate surround on a Variant, the wheel arches and the sunroof for paint bubbles or rust stains.
3. Apply and release the electric parking brake several times, including on a slope. A slow release or warning light is a fault.
4. Ask a VW dealer to check the VIN for open recalls, in particular the 23R7 software update on a diesel. Bad result: an open campaign.

From the engine guide

1. Cold-start rattle. A few seconds of metallic rattle on a cold start is the usual sign of a worn chain. Ask whether the chain and tensioner (the part that keeps the chain tight) were replaced, and ask for the dated invoice with the mileage. If not, budget 686 to 1,090 EUR in Germany.
2. Chain stretch reading. Ask a workshop to read the chain stretch values with a diagnostic tester (a computer tool that reads the car's systems).
3. Oil level and top-ups. Check the dipstick. Top-ups every 1,000 to 2,000 km, blue smoke from the exhaust (a sign of burning oil), or rough idle (uneven running at standstill) point to ring or piston work. Ask for the price and the oil-use history.
4. Compressor noise. Listen for a whistle or click as the supercharger engages. Ask for proof of any compressor clutch work on a 2010 or 2011 twincharger.
5. Turbo warnings. A check engine light, or a loss of boost (the turbo's extra air pressure), points to the wastegate or actuator. Read the fault codes with a scanner.
6. Coolant and water pump. Look for coolant leaks and wet stains around the pump. Overheating and leaks are the symptoms. Ask whether the water pump was ever replaced.

Running costs

ADAC figures for 15,000 km a year over 60 months

ADAC versions