How do I fold in the wing mirrors on my 2017 Volkswagen Passat?

From what I can gather, the 2017 Passat in its Australian-delivered configuration doesn’t include the ability to automatically fold its mirrors in when you lock the doors. Certainly, you can do this manually for when you tackle an automatic car-wash, but that becomes tedious if you want the mirrors folded every time you lock and leave the car. But what’s interesting is that the car in other markets does, in fact, incorporate this feature, so it’s entirely possible, since your car already has the hardware) that the function is buried away deep, deep inside the set-up menus with a series of incomprehensible steps required to enable the function. Modern cars are subject to numerous hacks like this one, and a VW dealer might be able to point you in the right direction. It’s a handy feature and one that is valued highly by those who park on narrow streets each night. Actually, that’s why European versions of the Passat have the function in the first place, but it seems a bit mean that VW would drop it for our market.

Volkswagen Passat 2012: What does the flashing wrench indicator mean?

Hi Chloe, the wrench symbol is the service indicator light on this generation of Passat. I would take the car to your nearest licenced mechanical repairer and have them read the fault codes logged in the ECU, which is basically your car’s brain. Basically, when a part of your car stops working properly it sends an error message to the ECU, which has an error code it can display when the mechanic plugs their scan tool into the computer. This model Passat had an issue where the service light would come on, requiring the ECU’s software to be updated by the dealer. I’d take the car in and see what error codes come up as the first job.

Volkswagen Passat 2013: Is my car safe after a transmission failure?

There is little chance of anything else being damaged as a result of the transmission failure. I understand your concern about the safety of the car given your experience when the transmission failed and left you in a precarious situation, but the chances of it happening again are pretty slim now it has been repaired.

Volkswagen Passat: Key replacement cost

You can go to your dealer to get your key fob replaced, but without more information about your vehicle I can't guarantee how cheap it will be. If you don't want to go to your dealer to get your key fob replaced, check out this article for more options.

Is the DSG gearbox good in a Volkswagen or Skoda wagon?

The DSG is a brilliant idea, but it was affected by a couple of issues that soured the experience for a lot of owners. The latest DSG is not affected by the problems of the older units; there have been a lot of improvements made to overcome the issues it had. You can buy one with confidence.

What's a good mid-sized wagon to buy?

You’re buying a used car, it’s not new, so you have to expect some wear-and-tear issues. The older the car, the greater the wear-and-tear, and the more likely it is to have suffered mechanical failures or even a crash. That means you have to thoroughly check the car before purchase, and you have to rely on the honesty of the vendor. If the car has had clutch problems it should be recorded in the service book. It’s the same with the others you’re looking at, check them thoroughly, and if you’re uncertain have an expert check them for you. Of the three others you are considering I would avoid the Passat as a potential money pit, and go for the i40 in preference to the Commodore.

What's a good mid-sized wagon to buy?

You’re buying a used car, it’s not new, so you have to expect some wear-and-tear issues. The older the car, the greater the wear-and-tear, and the more likely it is to have suffered mechanical failures or even a crash. That means you have to thoroughly check the car before purchase, and you have to rely on the honesty of the vendor. If the car has had clutch problems it should be recorded in the service book. It’s the same with the others you’re looking at, check them thoroughly, and if you’re uncertain have an expert check them for you. Of the three others you are considering I would avoid the Passat as a potential money pit, and go for the i40 in preference to the Commodore.

Volkswagen Passat 2006 Problems

No car is perfect, but we've gathered everything relating to the Volkswagen Passat 2006 reliability here to help you decide if it's a smart buy.

Volkswagen Passat 2006: Oil pressure dropping after top up?

Answered by CarsGuide 24 Aug 2018

It’s not related to the oil, the oil you used was correct. It shouldn’t lose oil pressure so quickly, if it does there is something going on within the engine that needs addressing. If the engine is making a bad sound, don’t drive it, and get a mechanic to check it.

Engine

Used Volkswagen Passat review: 2006-2010

22 Aug 2015 · by Graham Smith

Discerning Passat buyers went for the German comforts and dynamics — but well-versed owners know they have to keep topping up the engine oil.NewHaving started out as the maker of the humble people’s ...

Used Volkswagen Passat review: 1995-2014

12 Mar 2015 · by Ewan Kennedy

Volkswagen Passat is a medium-large car aimed at those looking for a solid machine that should stand the test of time. Stylish it's not, but that's the way VW does its shapes, intending them to be ...

Used Volkswagen Passat review: 1995-2012

15 Mar 2013 · by Ewan Kennedy

Passat is a medium-large German car that appeals to those who refuse to pay big dollars for a similar car from one of the more prestigious marques from the same country. Audi won’t thank us for ...

Used Volkswagen Passat review: 2005-2008

18 Feb 2011 · by Graham Smith

Being a prestige model the Passat was generously equipped with standard gear.

Ask Smithy Xtra VW Passat yellow warning light

Answered by CarsGuide 28 Sep 2010

It could be the MAF malfunctioning giving a faulty signal to the engine computer. Get it to a VW specialist to have it checked out.

Search from Over 8,000 questions Over 8,000 questions answered by CarsGuide

Disclaimer: You acknowledge and agree that all answers are provided as a general guide only and should not be relied upon as bespoke advice. Carsguide is not liable for the accuracy of any information provided in the answers.

Complete Guide to Volkswagen
Passat

Reviews, price, specs and more

Reviews

Family
Family focused reviews and advice for everything family car related.
Adventure
Off-road for beginners and the experienced, plus camper trailers, caravans and motorhomes
Tradies
Utes, commercial vehicles and tow tests

Compare cars
We make it easy to compare design, practicality, value and more
Used cars
Buying used? Here's what to look out for and buy smart
Owner reviews
Your thoughts could drive you to more than just your next destination 🚗💬

Buying guides

Our experts pick the top models
- SUV
- Ute
- Hybrid
- Hatchback
- Electric
- Sedan
- Wagon
- Coupe
- People mover
- Convertible
- Commerical

Volkswagen Passat 2006 Problems

Volkswagen Passat 2006: Oil pressure dropping after top up?

Used Volkswagen Passat review: 2006-2010

Used Volkswagen Passat review: 1995-2014

Used Volkswagen Passat review: 1995-2012

Used Volkswagen Passat review: 2005-2008

Ask Smithy Xtra VW Passat yellow warning light

Search from Over 8,000 questions Over 8,000 questions answered by CarsGuide

Complete Guide to VolkswagenPassat

Related cars for sale

cars

guide

Complete Guide to Volkswagen
Passat