You'll need to replace the starter motor to repair the car, they're about $120 on [rockauto for a remanufactured Bosch unit]
My Passat has 370k km and is 20 years old, still on the original starter, and starts like a champ.
I took the starter out, it looked OK. Removing the solenoid connector was really difficult since the plastic piece that you push to disengage it had disintegrated with time/heat. No 12V on the solenoid terminal when I pressed start.
a bit(a lot actually) of internet research got me a denso clone(looks like a hi torq) meant for a kubota tractor.
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This part for Volkswagen Passat is made around the world. We have reviews for starter motor manufacturers from countries such as: Germany, Japan, France .
In March 2026, the ranking of starter motor for Volkswagen Passat on PartReview included 4 manufacturers. It is based on 4 reviews and 14 votes.
Last month, PartReview users preferred Bosch. 21% of positive votes went to this manufacturer.
In second place: starter motor OEM Volkswagen — 21%.
Third place: Denso with 0% of the votes.
In the overall ranking of starter motor, which aggregates opinions of owners of different car makes and models, these brands hold the following positions:
After seeing which starter motor owners of Volkswagen Passat prefer, check other popular parts for this car. In March 2026, leaders on PartReview were:
You can also see what Volkswagen Passat owners chose among such parts as: Ignition coil, Shock absorbers, Strut assembly, Brake discs, Brake caliper, and others.
