Underbody heat shields/fuel system components
Defect Summary
Volkswagen is recalling 412,000 my 1999-2005 passat (5th generation) vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions and produced after june 14, 1999. these vehicles may have an underbody heat shield that can become damaged. in addition, affected vehicles with automatic or manual transmissions may have a fuel line (1.8t engines only) or fuel tank ventilation valve (4motion/all wheel drive only) that can leak due to fracture.
Safety Consequence
A heat shield that may contact the exhaust system can result in a vehicle fire. in addition, a fuel leak from a fuel line or fuel tank ventilation valve, in the presence of an ignition source, can lead to a vehicle fire.
Corrective Action
Dealers will install additional underbody heat shields on vehicles with automatic transmissions to cover the possibly damaged areas and flash all 1.8t engines with a precautionary software update. Dealers will also inspect and adjust the fuel line routing on 1.8t vehicles and the fuel tank ventilation valve on 4motion/all wheel drive vehicles, and replace components if necessary free of charge. the recall began on june 13, 2008. owners may contact volkswagen at 1-800-822-8987.
Similar Recalls
Other recalls from Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc. or involving Fuel System, Gasoline.
FAQ: Recall 08V156000
Your rights, the repair process, and what each field on this page means.
What is recall 08V156000?
NHTSA recall 08V156000 was issued by Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc. on April 7, 2008. It addresses: Underbody heat shields/fuel system components. The recall affects approximately 412,000 vehicles, with the defect involving the Fuel System, Gasoline component.
How do I get this recall repaired?
Contact any authorized Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc. dealer and reference NHTSA recall ID 08V156000 or the manufacturer campaign number 26E5/R5. Under federal law, the repair is completely free regardless of vehicle age or owner history.
Is my vehicle included in this recall?
The only way to confirm is to look up your 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. NHTSA's tool will tell you if VIN-by-VIN this exact recall applies.
How long do I have to get a recall repair done?
There is no expiration on most federal safety recalls. Even if your vehicle is years old and you bought it used, the manufacturer is required to perform the repair at no cost.
Where does the data on this page come from?
All information on this page is sourced directly from the U.S. Department of Transportation public dataset for NHTSA recalls. Last refreshed: 2026-05-22. For the most current official notice, visit nhtsa.gov/recalls.