VW Passat B8 1.4 TSI, 125 PS, 6-speed manual (2014–2018)

Research for this car

• Generation guide VW Passat B8 (2014-2023): known problems and buying guide

  A sound used car if the 2.0 TDI coolant level and diesel exhaust cleaning check out. Test the DSG in slow traffic before paying.

• Engine guide VW 1.2 and 1.4 TSI (EA211) petrol engines: problems, costs and what to check

  Oil use and water pump leaks are the reported faults. Buy with a belt and pump record and a clean oil check.

Known issues for this car

Before you buy this car

From the generation guide

1. On a 1.4 TSI, check the oil level after the test drive and ask about top-ups.
2. Ask for the TÜV report. Check the springs and brake discs, which are often flagged at inspection.
3. Test the infotainment, Bluetooth, navigation and rear camera on a 2014-2016 car. Check the window lifters too.

From the engine guide

1. Oil level (no scanner needed). Check the dipstick and ask for the oil-use history. Bad: the level falls between services, or blue smoke comes out under hard acceleration. Ask for proof of any ring or head work.
2. Coolant and water pump (no scanner needed). Check the coolant level when the engine is cold, and look under the car for wet stains near the pump. Bad: a low level or any leak. Ask for a dated invoice showing the pump was changed with the belt.
3. Invoices. Ask for dated invoices with the mileage for any belt, pump, oil or software work. No record means budget for the job.
4. Recall check. Enter the VIN in the official recall check for the car's country. Bad: an open campaign on the car.

Running costs

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

ADAC versions