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Fix your Passat misfire.
[ Posted by Dan on September 22, 2002 | 220 Comments ]

We interrupt this blog to bring you the method for fixing a misfire in the 1996 Volkswagen Passat. Little did I know when I bought said car that annoying, expensive and consistent problems would arise. Finding explanations and fixes for the problems I've had have come few and far between.

In an effort to Google bomb this explanation for fixing the misfire in the 1996 Volkswagen Passat GLX VR6, I am posting this blog entry, complete with keywords, such as...

  • Volkswagen
  • Passat
  • GLX VR6
  • ignition coil
  • coil pack
  • misfire
  • misfiring
  • engine sputtering
  • $350 part
  • repair costs
  • outrageous labor costs
  • do it yourself
  • $3 epoxy
  • i hate my car
  • thank god i live only 4 miles from work
It took me several hours to find this article about the coil pack. Hopefully other unfortunate 1996 Passat owners will now find it more easily. Also, I recently found another relevant page about fixing your coil pack with epoxy. This page has more discussion on the suggestions made at the guide linked above.

Please post a comment below if this information has been useful to you. Also, if anyone is interested, I have the old cracked coil pack left over from my recent repairs. If anyone would like to buy it, just make me an offer (I mean, someone might want it, right?).

[edited Oct 3, 2002]

 

Normal Guy

Hmmm. Very interesting. I just got a VR6 97 Passat, but have not experienced the missing problem (yet). Would be interested in any other Passat problem pages you happened to run across, though (just for future ref.). Love VW/Audis, but they do seem to have electrical problems that can drive one buggy.

-Posted by Darren Addy on September 22, 2002 11:48 PM

Normal Guy

Well, I brought the car in for service, and they quoted me a $3k estimate for the wide panalopy of problems with my car (it's a long list).

They wanted to charge me $348 just for the coil pack!

-Posted by Dan on September 25, 2002 09:21 PM

Normal Guy

Well, over the many years of refining the Passat, by the 2002 model year I think they tweaked the planned obsolesence of the ignition coils to too short a period. Although it is obvious they can replace them quickly, being into the VW dealership 8 times in the first year of the car's life is not exactly winning me over. I'll pass along the epoxy tip to them.

-Posted by Marc on November 7, 2002 12:22 AM

Normal Guy

They say they've tweaked out all the problems in the 2001 model passats... boy are they wrong... had more than 4 misfires... latest one, 3 cylinders misfired symotaniously causing vehicle to stall while driving in the city... misfire killed one cylinder completely resulting in check engine light and loss of power output. other problems... headlights burn out too quick.. car "shimmys" as you drive, worsens with speed, brakes squeak, burns gas very fast when using car in lower gears (tip) .. what else... smooth ride deteriorates with age.... the car is only just over a year old!

-Posted by Jonathan on November 7, 2002 09:52 PM

Normal Guy

Bought 2002 Passat in 5/02. At 2000 miles first coil went out, 8000 miles 2nd, 10,000 3rd. Lemon law attorney says if the check engine light comes on one more time for ANY reason it should trigger the California Lemon Law. Hope, Hope. Honda here I come.

-Posted by Kim on November 11, 2002 07:54 PM

Normal Guy

Bought a 2002 Passat 1.8T last June. So far have had two ignition coil failures while driving on an Interstate (on wet rainy days). Last time was almost overrun by a tractor trailer. VW wont change all four coils!. What should I do?. I am afraid of driving my car!. What a LEMON (my 8 yr. old Toyota never, ever let me down)

-Posted by Julio on November 18, 2002 05:59 PM

Normal Guy

2001.5 Passat ... bad ignition coils twice in 17,000 miles. Last time they changed all the coils. One of the techs told me off the record that this happened to him 7 weeks in a row and that it's because the engine gets too hot for these coils and it burns them up. Also, I've been through 2 left low-beam headlights in less than a year.

-Posted by Ken on November 21, 2002 09:59 AM

Normal Guy

Same story. 2002 1.8T and 2000 miles coil pack 2 died. I am afraid to road trip now. Where the hell is the "drivers wanted" gang now?

-Posted by Jim on November 22, 2002 01:49 AM

Normal Guy

2002 Passat 1.8T: first coil went after 7 months, second 3 months later....VW dealer said that VW refuses to allow them to replace more than one coil at a time. Car's been in the shop for over a week now waiting for a coil to be shipped. The second coil burnout happened during rainfall. We need a recall!! Does anyone know how to pressure VW? We had headlight problems also.

-Posted by Bob on November 22, 2002 03:37 PM

Normal Guy

2002 Passat 4 cyl. 5400 miles. 2 coils bad - took dealer 12 days to get the parts and replace - they only replaced 2. Got the car back 3 days ago. This morning I start it up, its running rough and the engine light is flashing for about 10 seconds, then it smoothed out and the light went out.
I'm checking lemon laws for Washington State.

Has anyone seen whether there are any Service Bulletins from VW to their mechanics about this issue? Local law says I have the right to see all bulletins regarding my model and year, so I am going to request them ASAP.

No headlight problems yet.

-Posted by Dave on November 23, 2002 11:21 PM

Normal Guy

2002 1.8 on my 3rd coil pack. This time no one has them. Try the German aftermarket Beru part# 06B905115H.

Runs too hot and fries the stock nazi coil. These Beru work great if only I could get them.

-Posted by Matty V on December 9, 2002 12:18 PM

Normal Guy

I'm back. One month later. Another coil blown--suprise, surprise. Hired a Lemon Law attorney today (I'm in California). They have successfully gotten VW to take back 100 Passats and Audis so far this year. Check Google for the lemon laws in your state. That's how I found these guys. Kim

-Posted by Kim on December 10, 2002 08:12 PM

Normal Guy

Same problems w/ 2002 V6 Passat Wagon. Two bad coil packs and the wagon had to be towed into VW. Three days later after 1 1/2 weeks in the shop check engine light again. This time two bad cat. converters. After 1 1/2 weeks in the shop I get the car back. Now three days later car is still missing dies on the road twice and needless to say it's back in VW's hands. I'm check AZ lemon laws, too.

-Posted by Gregg on December 15, 2002 02:17 PM

Normal Guy

Have the 2002 Passat, just 5 months old. The check engine light has been on and off since I bought it. It eats gas like crazy. I took it in to the dealer today and they have to replace the electrical "brain" of the car, whatever that is...I was told this is a signaficant repair and my car will be in the shop for about a week.
Any similar suggestions or comments???

-Posted by Joey on December 16, 2002 07:38 PM

Normal Guy

Back again w/ update and good news. VW agreed to repurchase my 2002 Passat today as a "gesture of goodwill" one week after my attorney sent the demand with threat to sue per the Califonia Lemon Law. I get all my money back, they pay off the loan, and take back the car, and pay the attorney!!! First time in my life the legal system has worked for me. Kim

http://www.lemonlawamerica.com/

-Posted by Kim on December 17, 2002 09:27 PM

Normal Guy

I just graduated from college and was so excited to finally get a new car. However, this morning when it was snowing and icy I had to have my new car towed in for the 3rd time in 3 months. I called the customer hotline, but they could care less. Under Indiana lemon law if it happens 4 times they have to replace it. I just can't believe I pay that much to have a car that doesn't run right or is in the shop half the time. Pretty sad.

-Posted by Stephanie on January 2, 2003 03:30 PM

Normal Guy

I purhased a 2003 VW Passat Wagon in August of 2002. This is the four cylinder 1.8 engine, if I am not mistaken. It is snowing today; I picked my older boy up at his Kindagarten at 2;30 PM. I noticed the "check engine" light had appeared; I checked the engine oil--dow one quart. This car has 2000 miles on it. It devours fast, almost as fast as my conversion van that I traded in--a Chevy 20 which was extremely reliable. I callled my sister. Her 25 year old son recently purchased an Audi A4--he's on his second or third round with replacement of the ig. coils. My sister said this is likely the issue. I went on the net subsequently and now see the frequency of this problem. And consumer reports test ratings rated the PASSAT highly--but now it sounds like a giant piece of sugar.(not my first choice of words).

-Posted by Keith R. Bond on January 3, 2003 04:20 PM

Normal Guy

should read: "down one quart"
"It devours gas fast.."
"but now it seems I made a big ass mistake in getting this freaking expensive piece of shit."

-Posted by Keith R. Bond on January 3, 2003 04:25 PM

Normal Guy

Have a 2002 Passat 12,000 miles. have replaces 4 coils, three in the past month. Volkswagon Roadside Assistance took three hours to come and 24 hours to return the car to the dealership. No one seems to claim responsibility for either problem.

-Posted by Susan Schlossberg on January 4, 2003 11:06 AM

Normal Guy

Have a 2002 Passat 12,000 miles. have replaces 4 coils, three in the past month. Volkswagon Roadside Assistance took three hours to come and 24 hours to return the car to the dealership. No one seems to claim responsibility for either problem.

-Posted by Susan Schlossberg on January 4, 2003 11:06 AM

Normal Guy

The putative ignition coil problem turned out to be a faulty purge valve. The dealer was prepared tp outfit me with a rental, as the service manager explaned that ignition coil replacements are taking awhile to show up. I found the Service department at Minuteman VW in Bedford, MA (near Lexington and Concord) to be courteous, and very professional--which was the really good since I wound up having to take the day off from work. The Service manager, incidentally, initially suspected the ignition coils; he seemed genuinely relieved to show me the small plastic part cause the problem. Overall: good experience today at the Service department. Still, the reliability issue concerns me. When was the last time you heard of a brand new Honda or Toyota with 2K miles start showing the "check Engine" logo? I have owned two Accords and each car was extremely reliable. I have owned a 1972 Squareback Sedan--VW, a 1980 VW Rabbitt, and both were very problematic. My step-father in the 1960's drove around in a Beetle, but I don't know how reliable that tin can was. It will be a hard sell to convinve myself, now, that VW builds cars as reliable as say, Honda, or Toyota. If I lost my cool with my previous post, i apologize, but I really was not expecting car problems WITH A BRAND NEW VEHICLE THAT IS COSTING ABOUT ME $365/month!!

-Posted by Keith R. Bond on January 7, 2003 07:03 PM

Normal Guy

Taking 02 passat in 2nd time today for bad coil pack.

-Posted by mike vahey on January 10, 2003 07:55 AM

Normal Guy

I now have to get my 2002 Passat Wagon towed in for the 2nd time. We have a new baby and installing and uninstalling the car seat for all of these repairs is RIDICULOUS - not to mention this car is totally unreliable now (reading all of your comments).

Does one really have to wait until 4 times to consult LEMON LAW???? I don't want to be stranded in this winter with my baby!!??

Any thoughts?

-Posted by Alison on January 11, 2003 11:27 AM

Normal Guy

I understand perfectly Alison's concerns. My two boys are a little older now, 5 1/2 and 4 1/2 years, but driving a car with a baby inside, during winter, with reliability issues of the VW Passat, can't leave one with warm and fuzzy feelings. Keep your cell phone charged, if you have this device; if not, consider obtaining a cell phone, emergency flares, keep a blanket in the car, and bottled water, and Cheerios, or something the baby enjoys eating. Heaven forbid that these measures ever have to be put into play.

-Posted by Keith R. Bond on January 11, 2003 11:44 AM

Normal Guy

I own a 2000 1.8T Passat. I'm not sure if misfiring is the problem but twive in the last 6 months I get a check engine light and the car goes to half power and then stalls. If you get off the road without being run over and restart the car it seems to run fine. The last time this happened, I got the car home and took it out for 3 short trips, and the check engine light went out like it healled itself. I have also had problems with the secondary air pump. It fills with water and seizes up. It has been replaced twice.

-Posted by Dale Miller on January 19, 2003 02:18 PM

Normal Guy

2002 Passat towed to the dealer for last time today. Got my check for $4371. Have bought a wonderful 2001 Honda Accord fully loaded--so happy with it!! This crummy car fiasco is over. Call a lemon law lawyer today even if you aren't sure you qualify. Kim

P.S. Dale if it actually stalls you may have a faster Lemon Law case depending on your state. Was it doing this while under warranty. Check into it. http://www.lemonlawamerica.com/

-Posted by Kim on January 21, 2003 06:54 PM

Normal Guy

I assume the Passat and Eurovan VR6 engines have the same coil pack issues. I was having very similar problems. Loss of power especially on wet,rainy days. The automatic car wash really bogged it down. The dealer said I needed a new coil pack. $520 (parts + labor). I began the search...I found Marc Gallagher's info on the net for pasting epoxy over the plastic part of the coil pack. His instructions were so simple and made perfect "common sense". So far so good. I took it out on the snowy, wet highway this morning and it ran as smooth as ever. I recommend this to anyone with similar problems. I love the Eurovans. I've had three of 'em. I've actually been thinking of getting a 2002 Jetta Wagon TDI. Anybody know if these have the same issues? Kevin

-Posted by Kevin on January 27, 2003 09:19 AM

Normal Guy

I have a 2002 1.8T. It's been towed twice. The first time they replaced 2 coils. The second time it broke was 3 days after I had surgery and I couldn't walk more than a block. I was completely dependent on my car. The service manager told me he couldn't diagnose my car for a couple days so he couldn't authorize a rental car. I was stranded in my apartment for 2 days. Once they diagnosed the problem they replaced 1 coil. The service manager "joked" with me about how I was lucky because I only had one more coil to go before my problem was solved. Then he realized he had replaced one of the coils twice! That pretty much tells me this is a never ending problem with no solution. This is my second Jetta. I had a 1994 Jetta III before this and it was the best car I had ever had. Its reliability is why I came back to VW. NEVER AGAIN.

-Posted by on January 27, 2003 12:12 PM

Normal Guy

I have a passat 2002 with 11,000 miles. I've replaced two of the four coil packs. VW's service tech told me the problem is only with the four cylinder engine and that the later model 2003 editions have upgraded the coil packs (you can still buy the bad ones if you get an early 2003 model.) the most frustrating thing is they only cost about $50-$60, but VW won't replace all four even if you pay for the part because it's afraid it's going to run out of them. thus you have to wait until you're stranded again (and again)to get the problem fixed. anyone else know if the problem is limited to the 1.8 engine? I really like the car otherwise and would consider going with the 6.

-Posted by jerry on January 27, 2003 04:11 PM

Normal Guy

Remember me from back in November?, Passat 1.8 Turbo (2002). Almost run over by a tractor trailer when car stalled at most dangerous highway interchange in America (Springfield Mixer in Northern Virginia). The again car stalls on my way to the office. Yet once more car stalls coming back home from a long-trip. This is crap!!. VW couldn't care less. No response to my letters. Roadside assistance COULDN'T get a tow truck last time.

Called my Lemon Law lawyer today. We shouldn't put up with this from VW. I have owned 10 or 12 cars. Always japanese stuff. I have NEVER .. EVER experienced anything like this. I will get my money back and go buy a HONDA and quit this FAHVERGNUGEN, drivers wanted bunch of lies.

If anyone gets into an accident because of i-coil problems this could be grounds for a CLASS ACTION lawsuit.

-Posted by julio on January 28, 2003 10:46 AM

Normal Guy

2002 GLS Passat Wagon w/ 21k miles. Coil failed while 350 mi from home on a Saturday. Had to wait till Monday AM to get replaced and missed day of work. They won't replace remaining coils. Reading these stories makes me worry. Why isn't there a recall?

Also replaced running lights 3 times and had to have car in shop to "reflash" software, when engine light came on.

Not happy.

-Posted by Sam Figuli on January 28, 2003 12:40 PM

Normal Guy

Same story. 2002 Passat 1.8T. Lost 3 coil packs inside of 1 week. Been to the dealer for the last 2 days in a row with same problem. Dealer has refused to replace all 4 since I asked during the first visit. Probably would have same me and them a lot of headaches. Car is too old for lemon law to apply, but I sure am looking for a way to dump it!


Any answer to how we put pressure on VW?

Not happy either.

-Posted by Mark Mathewson on January 28, 2003 06:24 PM

Normal Guy

Same story. 2002 Passat 1.8T. Lost 3 coil packs inside of 1 week. Been to the dealer for the last 2 days in a row with same problem. Dealer has refused to replace all 4 since I asked during the first visit. Probably would have same me and them a lot of headaches. Car is too old for lemon law to apply, but I sure am looking for a way to dump it!


Any answer to how we put pressure on VW?

Not happy either.

-Posted by Mark on January 28, 2003 06:24 PM

Normal Guy

Same story. 2002 Passat 1.8T. Lost 3 coil packs inside of 1 week. Been to the dealer for the last 2 days in a row with same problem. Dealer has refused to replace all 4 since I asked during the first visit. Probably would have same me and them a lot of headaches. Car is too old for lemon law to apply, but I sure am looking for a way to dump it!


Any answer to how we put pressure on VW?

Not happy either.

-Posted by Mark on January 28, 2003 06:25 PM

Normal Guy

Anyone know if VW has fixed the ignition coil issue in the 2003 model?

-Posted by Dominick on January 28, 2003 10:21 PM

Normal Guy

I own a 2000 Passat GLX wagon. Dealer replaced cam adjuster gaskets as they had apparently been
seeping a little. Since the gaskets were replaced, the car has been in the shop for over two weeks as the Emission workshop light continues to indicate a malfuntion. Technician
said the codes indicate that the engine is misfiring but can't figure out why. In fact he has said that he is stumped and doesn't know what to do next. Anyone had a similar problem and had success in repairing the problem?.

-Posted by kelly on January 29, 2003 01:42 PM

Normal Guy

So, we're talking about two issues. One the coil packs go bad which subsequently causes the coils to go bad. Is this right? Does anyone know if bad coil packs, and/or coils would cause an emissions leak? I realize it would but I've already dealt with the coil pack. If one of my coils was shot underneath would I still smell the gas?

-Posted by Kevin on January 29, 2003 02:08 PM

Normal Guy

So, we're talking about two issues. One the coil packs go bad which subsequently causes the coils to go bad. Is this right? Does anyone know if bad coil packs, and/or coils would cause an emissions leak? I realize it would but I've already dealt with the coil pack. If one of my coils was shot underneath would I still smell the gas?

-Posted by Kevin on January 29, 2003 02:08 PM

Normal Guy

I hate VW Customer Care. I hate VW Roadside Assisitance. I hate my VW turbo Jetta. It makes me sad because I was so excited when I bought it. I convinced two of my friends to buy the same car. They are so angry that they listened to me. You can file a complaint on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website (NHTSA.dot.gov). They review the complaints and investigate them. If they find the problem to be a safety concern they can force VW to issue a recall. So register a complaint immediately and hopefully these cars will be off the road quickly before someone gets hurt. There are already hundreds of complaints about these cars on the website.

-Posted by on January 30, 2003 07:56 AM

Normal Guy

I was never aware of the issues with the Passat, silly me, and I bought a 2003 2.8 V-6 all wheel drive in Sept 2002. Does anyone know if the electrical problem extends to this model? Are the coils the same or are better ones being used. I will say I am very disappointed with gas mileage - using premium gas as manual instructs and I'm getting 17 miles per gallon - my old Mazda 626 got 24 even in the city! Had that for 11 years - based on all these comments, I don't think I'll be that lucky with this car!

-Posted by Jeff on January 30, 2003 09:57 AM

Normal Guy

Ditto, ditto, ditto...I have a 2002 Passat GLS wagon,and I've had 3 coils replaced - the only way to bump up the turnaround time at the shop/dealer is to threaten VW-America with the lemon law or a lawsuit. I loved this car, and that's no exaggeration. I loved the feel, the zippy driving experience and size...until it was back at the dealer for over a month in November. I just picked it up from the dealer today after coil #3 went bad on Monday. My attorney is getting the papers together for the lemon law filing. I'm so heartbroken, but I bought the car for it's reliability, and it doesn't have any...and let's not even get into the dismal "customer care representatives" you get on the phone. Just one hint, VW: do not ever, EVER say "I understand" to an irate woman who has not seen her car in over a month. You can bet that if I was late with a payment for over a month, they wouldn't "understand..."

-Posted by Paula on January 30, 2003 02:30 PM

Normal Guy

we have a passat 2000.5 w/ less tan 10k miles replaced 2 coils..shortly thereafter replaced 3rd coil...does anyone know if vw has been using the old defective coils to replace the new ones or can a person by new updated coils themselves for the dealership to put in...for the safety of my family i would foot the bill

-Posted by james on January 31, 2003 12:49 PM

Normal Guy

Sounds like I made it further than most-almost 24000 miles before the infamous flashing engine light came on on my 2002 Passat. Diagnosis: coils. My Honda had 270000 miles on it when I sold it 1.5 yrs ago and its still running. I shouldve bought another.

-Posted by Eric on February 1, 2003 02:35 AM

Normal Guy

Hi. I am having the same problem with my 2002 Passat. Has anyone ended up replacing all four coils and still have problems, or does that pretty much fix it? What I really want is to get a refund and buy an Accord! Has anyone gotten feedback from Customer Care @ VW?

-Posted by beth on February 1, 2003 02:33 PM

Normal Guy

I also have a 2002 passat. It has been towed four times! I have had all four coils replaced, I was able to pick my car up on Thursday morning (1/30/03) to have problems thursday night after work. I started my car and it was running rough and the check engine light came on. It has all 4 of the new "J Coils" and still broke down with a faulty ignition coil. I was told by the service dealer "this is impossible but it's not because it happened to me with in 8 hours and 30 miles later. I am now seeking legal advice b/c the new coils are not solving this coil problem.

-Posted by Tina Esteves on February 1, 2003 03:01 PM

Normal Guy

Has anyone read or heard that the ignition coil problem is presnt in the 1.8T 2003 Passat Wagon edition? I am wary anew, as the Boston Globe automotive section yesterday ran negative comments from VW owners all across the model spectra. My check engine light came on at exactly 2,000 miles. This turned out to be a faulty purge valve, and was fixed by the dealer, who was extremely nice to me. (Minutemean in Bedford MA). I have small children and I am concerned about any summer road trips we may be talking. I have experienced engine failure in a rented Pontiac Grand AM at high speeds years ago while helping a friend move to MD. This was a scary and unforgettable experience for me. Loss of power on a highway is no trivial happenstance.

-Posted by keith bond on February 2, 2003 10:41 AM

Normal Guy

I have a 2001 1.8T wolfsburg jetta and have had the same coil problems 2 times thus far within the last month, I have 32,000 miles on it though and don't think lemon law still applies because I past the warranty period. Just wondering if there is anything else I can do to get rid of this car and get my money back!!! I love it in every way except for this annoying mechanical problems!

-Posted by Ian Mereness on February 2, 2003 03:36 PM

Normal Guy

Show of hands for how many people think VW quality would go back up where it used to be if they pulled up 3rd world stakes and resumed buiding the cars in Germany? (Or heck, build 'em in the US! The US builds the Accord, Corolla, Camry, Civic, etc)...

The following is a good example of what happens when you get greedy and insist on exploiting the 3rd world for cheap labour:

http://waw.wardsauto.com/ar/auto_vw_brazil_fires/

-Posted by Bob on February 2, 2003 08:02 PM

Normal Guy

I have a 2003 Passat Wagon 1.8T with 2800 miles that was in the shop last week for the first ignition coil replacement.I too asked to have all four coils replaced and was informed by the frustrated vw mechanic that vw of america won't allow it.A week later,however,when I picked the car up he said that he received a memo (service bulletin,perhaps) from vw stating that after a second coil fails THEN the remaining coils can be replaced.So much for vw caring about the safety of its drivers.I was basically sent home and told to wait for the other coils to fail(which according to the mehanic they most certainly will) Sounds to me like vw is trying to get around the lemon law which usually requires 3-4 attemts to fix the same problem before it can be enacted.So now I'm currently stuck with a car I only feel comfortable driving on side roads during the day and without my chilren in the backseat.Wonderful! I've written a letter to vw and am interested in hearing their reply.

-Posted by sadie on February 2, 2003 09:08 PM

Normal Guy

Check out the article in today's New York Times. At least the rest of the world is now hearing about our VW disaster. My 2002 Passat (with 3300 miles on it) is going back to the dealer Tuesday morning for ANOTHER service visit. Already had one coil replaced. Now the engine light comes on and off at random.

-Posted by John on February 2, 2003 10:57 PM

Normal Guy

Anybody with a 2002 AUDI 1.8T and the car just stalls and shuts down while coming to a stop? AUDI says it is not the ignition coil(s). I don't believe them. They say that it does not register on the computer diagnostics. Anyone have anything to offer? Thanks.

-Posted by Jon on February 3, 2003 08:44 AM

Normal Guy

The vw mechanic I spoke with said the coil problem doesn't show up on the computer diagnostics. Even if your car isn't running properly you won't know it's the coils until you are stranded and need a tow.

-Posted by sadie on February 3, 2003 08:59 AM

Normal Guy

I have a 2000 Passat 4motion with everything you can get - I think it was the most expensive VW ever - and maybe the worst! At 17K, the fuel sending units (which were recalled - although nobody sent anything about that) malfunctioned and the fuel guage was displaying erroneous readings. My wife ran out of gas on the I-95, and but for the grace of God, made it off the road safely. 3 weeks later the FSU's showed up, and the shop that put them in wouldn't pick up the rental car bill without a fight. So, I gave them a fight they won't soon forget. Because I worked in Germany for a large bank for several years, I have 2 friends fairly senior in VW headquarters. I got the names, dates and details of every conversation I had with the dealer repair staff and with Michigans "Customer Care" drones. Then I fired off letters via Fedex to the 2 of the SVP's of Marketing, the President of VW America, and to the President of the dealership. That woke up some of the dealership staff, to the point where I was taking calls of apology from 2 of the jerks that had been abrasive in the outset of the whole event. My point is this - they are producing a recooked Audi that doesnt quite work, and the inability to admit guilt (eg they blamed the FSU problem on lower quality US fuel) is a corporate phenomenon. Oh yeah - also, at 40K, I had to get the wheels realigned, but because the tie rods were corroded, they tried to jam me with a $1,000 replacement bill. I fought that and they agreed to pick up the parts as a "goodwill gesture" Still it cost me 485$ for something that was defective and was recalled in cars that are 6 months older than mine. Crooked staff in the repair shop is almost as bad as lousy engineering. My motto is -Fight them hard enough and you'll get what you should - good luck !

-Posted by John on February 3, 2003 02:31 PM

Normal Guy

I just got my 2002 Passat back today after 9 days in for repair of the coils. I had 3 defective coils so,of course, only 3 were replaced. It was indicated to me too that the 4th coil would also go, leading to another repair. I drove about 15 miles home today and am quite certain the Turbo isn't working...I feel like I'm driving a 2 liter. Anyone with similar problems??
Also, has anyone the same idea as I that due to the obvious coil issues, that we would have Lemon Law relief with the evidence here and elsewhere even if the car hasn't had its 3rd visit to the repair shop (My state allows for a vehicle to be out of commmision for 15 cumulative days or the same repair 3x). If my car is in the shop again for the 2nd time, same problem, or w/ problem related to this coil issue, I plan on filing a complaint. Any suggestions from someone who has sought remedy and failed or sought remedy and succeeded?? Thanks

-Posted by tim on February 3, 2003 04:21 PM

Normal Guy

Gosh, I guess i was ahead of the curve with my 2001 Golf 1.8T that I purchased in Feb 01. DUring my 14 months of ownership, It spent over 17 days (and 4 separate visits) at the inept dealership while they tried to figure out why my car would sputter at startup, almost stall when coming to stops and idle erratically on cold mornings. They replaced the ECM, reflashed the ECU, changed the MAF--spent thousands of VW warranty dollars. So, the morning I go to get my car, I start it, and the ECU makes a grinding noise and sputters itself to a start. I just started laughing and drove the car home. Unfortunately, I don't think the coilpacks were ever tested; maybe that was my cars problem all along. I completely understand your frustration. I finally traded it in for a 2002 TDI (with no assistance from VWoA) and so far,this car has had 0 problems with 8300 miles. VW's popularity surge over the past two years has really caught dealers pants down. Their undertrained technicians (from what i read don't even have to be VW certified at hire) are incompetent; they're were always calling VW Tech Support for assistance on my 1.8T simply because these cars are computers when all is said and done. I know not everyone can trade their car in and lose a few grand. My advice is to find a competent independent VW shop. Unfortunately, I wasn't aware of the one just 5 miles from my home. The 1.8T is a fun ride and I still miss mine. It sounds like VW is in the hotseat now and hopefully will overcompensate to win back the favor of current owners and future buyers. Good luck

-Posted by Aaron on February 3, 2003 05:29 PM

Normal Guy

Sorry to hear all your problems regarding coil packs. THis has been a problem with VW for 7 eight years now. A quick fix just to help you get home is to use wire dryer spray to help dry out the wires on short term basis. I also would recommend you all to file a complaint with the NHTSA (google it to find the website) perhaps it'll trigger VW to do a recall. My current 95 VW will be my first and last VW!!!

-Posted by Jose on February 3, 2003 06:23 PM

Normal Guy

The issue with Passats is not a country of origin problem. Up to 2002 they were made in Germany. It is just crappy design, engineering and service.

Keep your eyes open to see what happens when Passats are phased to Shanghai manufacturing (I think starting 2003 or 2004).

Japanese designed vehicles perform regardless of being manufactured in Japan, Europe or South America (I can attest to that).

-Posted by julio on February 3, 2003 07:57 PM

Normal Guy

Call a lemon law attorney in your state for strategy--I called after the 2nd coil went out. Mine made $2500 (paid by VW) for writing one letter on my behalf. I'm sure they will welcome your call! I'm in California.

http://www.lemonlawamerica.com/

When the 4th coil went out I towed it home (not to the dealer per my attorney's advice) and called the attorney. VW gave me a refund check took back the car and paid the attorney. The VW rep who bought back the car told me it was unheard of to have this kind of problem and why didn't I contact him before calling a lawyer (I did & he never called back...)

I had to rent a car for a period as it has to stay "broken" to proceed. I have a nice Honda Accord now (PHEW!!) and am so happy to be rid of that unreliable Passat "car". I don't think these cars are going to age well. Get rid of it if you possibly can. Kim

-Posted by Kim on February 3, 2003 08:23 PM

Normal Guy

I just happen to fall in this sight and just wanted to let everyone here know that these misfires with the 1.8t is first not volkswagens fault . a company by the name of bremi manufactures these coils for vw and yes i replaced about 20 of these coils in our dealership within the last 2 months.the cause is that when bremi made the coils they manufactured the insulation too thin causing voltage too leak out and cause the miss....this basically blew up in volkswagens face and the bremi plant was not ready nor vw too supply all 4 coils at once without depleting there stock..therefore they are only fixing the known bad coils at time of diagnosis. As of last week 1/31/03 we are told by vw that after the 2nd time in the shop from here on out that all the remaining coils should be replaced with the newer version, seeing that vw has enough stock to do this now..I was even told that the bremi employess are working triple time to catch up on this unfortunate mishap. also every car has its share of problems and espeacially the same ones..it does take awhile until you work all the bugs out of a mass produced car

-Posted by vwtech on February 3, 2003 10:06 PM

Normal Guy

I read the NY Times article. A spokesperson for VW said that no 2003 models are affected by the defective coils. I hope for all the other 2003 owners this is true. My 2003 Passat was just in the shop for a week for a bad coil.

-Posted by on February 4, 2003 12:45 PM

Normal Guy

I work for a VW dealership and just wanted to let everone know that the dealers are as frustrated with this problem as the consumers are. We are doing everything in our power to help out our customers. Naturally we want every customer to leave happy. We would like for you to keep in mind we can only do what we are permitted to do by VW.
I just would like to ask that you keep this in mind when visiting your nearest deale, also when the you get the survey call. Alot of dealers are getting bad scores as a result of customers being frustrated with VW and the ignition coil problems. These surveys directly affect your dealership, not VW. Please grade us on our performance and any issues you may have with VW take up with them at their customer care # located in the back of your manuel. Thank you for your time! Feel free to e-mail me with any comments or suggestions you may have.
RaeLynn2104@aol.com

-Posted by RaeLynn on February 6, 2003 02:56 PM

Normal Guy

Dale,

I saw your Passat comments.

I also own a 2000 1.8T Passat. I have almost 28k miles and I bought the car in Nov 1999. (What engine code do you have? I have the ATW; there's also the AEB, AUG, and the AWM) In addition, I have had very similar experiences to you:

Twice (within the last 3 months) my car has had these "misfirings" (my car did not stall completely though); ... both happened within 5 min of starting the car. Each time the "problem" went away. I did take the car to the dealership both times and the car was showing a coil pack error. The first time, numbers 2 and 4 showed the error, the second time, number 1 showed the
error. The first time, we agreed to not do anything to the car. The dealership did replace the number 1 coil the second time. The service
manager told me that the coil packs that are failing badly are the ones on the AEB engine. The coil packs on the ATW engine bolt down, the ones on the AEB engine are not bolted down.

Also, twice the secondary air pump has been replaced. I could hear the problems early on, but the first one was just replaced in Nov 2002. The second one was replaced just last month in Jan 2003.

For the "coil pack" and secondary air pump ssues, I have not paid a dime. The only thing that I have paid for (~$65) is to have the clutch switch adjusted.

Just today, I was told by my regular (non-VW dealership) mechanic that the water pump would need to be replaced because it's leaking. I have a call into the VW dealership, but I do not expect this pump to be under warranty.

Thoughts?

- Bill

-Posted by Bill Cimino on February 6, 2003 05:21 PM

Normal Guy

I have a 2002 Passat that has finally had all four ignition coils replaced. For the first repair, the dealership had the car for 24 days! The last coils went out within two days of getting the car back. In addition, I have had to replace both running lights already. My check engine light came on today for a few seconds, so now I am wondering what's next.

I purchased this car in August of 2001 and I have just missed the cutoff for the Indiana lemon law. After several phone calls, VW of America has agreed to reimburse me for one month's payment due to the "inconvenience" but that is not really compensation for the constant worry that my car is going to break down again.

My last car was a '96 Honda Civic - I sold it to my in-laws with 152,000 miles on it and it is still running strong. In fact, I've been borrowing it when my VW is in the shop!

I have to find a way out of this, but I can't face the expenses right now of just unloading it. I wish I had never bought this car and that is really sad because I was so thrilled with it when I got it.

-Posted by Yonda on February 6, 2003 11:28 PM

Normal Guy

I see several references above to failed secondary air pumps. I've had the same problem with my 2000 Passat 1.8T. The secondary air pump failed Jun2002, Dec2002, Jan2003, and the check engine/emmission workshop lights came on again today (Feb2003).

Although the service manager is giving me a free rental car, there must be something they either are not doing correctly or don't know about. Any suggestions/comments?

I also had air intake flow sensor problems Jan2003. To top it off, I just passed 50,000 miles and wonder if I'm going to start paying the piper for buying this car.

-Posted by Bruce on February 10, 2003 09:58 AM

Normal Guy

I purchased my 2001.5 Passat GLS V6 on 9/10/01, and really wondered if I did the right thing the next day. Now, after reading the postings here, I'm wondering that again.

So far, after 42k+ the car is running perfectly. I really enjoy owning & driving this car.

The only problems have been the chrome trim turning milky white. VW replaced it all free of charge, & gave me a Jetta while it was in the shop. The other problem that I'm curious about is if anyone else is having the light issue. I've replaced 3 headlights, 1 fog lamp & 1 license plate light in 16 months.

-Posted by tom on February 11, 2003 07:07 PM

I've replaced the rear tailight bulbs about 6 times in the last two years.

-Posted by Dan on February 11, 2003 07:39 PM

Normal Guy

I've replaced the front headlight bulbs 3 times in one year.

What's up with that?

-Posted by Pablo on February 11, 2003 09:19 PM

Normal Guy

Thanks for the warning!
I almost bought a 2003 1.8T Jetta last week, I read the consumer reviews the evening before picking up the car from the dealership (Three Rivers VW, Pittsburgh) and this "ignition coil" nightmare suddenly made me realize my mistake... I got a nice Jeep Liberty instead!... Thanks again for the timely advice and good luck with your VW.

-Posted by lalo on February 12, 2003 02:57 AM

Normal Guy

I have a 2001 passat 1.8T - the "check engine" light came on for the first time at around 35000 miles - a week after I had 35K service done. I called the dealership but they'll only be able to take it in in four days. I'm glad I bought that extended warranty (I have 5 yrs, 50K miles bumper-to-bumper).

Prior to this, I had a 93 passat I put 160K miles on it before donating to a charity - that was the best car I ever had, this is why I bough VW again. We'll see what the dealership says after they check the car.

-Posted by Aleks on February 12, 2003 01:25 PM

Normal Guy

I thought I just might miss out on the coil nightmare, but my 2002 Passat today just started running rough and the check engine light is blinking. damn it! Also, I have replaced my low beam bulb numerous times in the one year i have had the car.


Like the last poster I but a ton of miles on a '93 passat (220,000) with no major problems so I thoguht I'd try my luck again. Hopefully the coil problem will be a one-time deal now that VW says they will replace all 4 coils on every car.

-Posted by Brad on February 12, 2003 02:00 PM

Normal Guy

Statistics:2001 Passat wagon 1.8T 3coil paks, 4 tows, 1 oil pump, camshaft seals

pick up the Passat after last repair which they had for a week and a half and presto my daughters 2002 Jetta 1.8T- 2 coil paks

Used to love these cars but the shine is definitely gone.
Got a call from VW -a damage control person- trying to smooth out the effects of the coil pak problems-gave me her number said I could call her anytime-think we will end up on a first name basis

My old Fiat behaved better than this!

-Posted by dennis on February 13, 2003 08:14 AM

Normal Guy

2002 passat saga purchased VW
6/15. 8/6 dash lights go out while driving at night. Goto VW to fix. 8/9 dashlights go out again! VW fixes it again, with no concern with repeating problem. 8/23 gear shifter(stick) comes loose was told factory forgot to install retaining clip. VW admits "thats a shame". 10/23
radio goes dead, I listen to talk radio, I was not jamming out. Whats better they replaced it with a refurbished unit with a different shade of black than the 1st radio so its stands out like this car does from all the other cars I've owned. 11/10 1st gear linkage tighten and Driver cushion starting to fray. Note this car is 5 months old at this point, and it sounds like I'm descibing a used car. Seats fraying come'on! 11/18 Loose headlamp what's new... 1/23/03 I finally loose a coil. I have arrived where all the other VW saps have been sitting. 2/13 After filing claim with VW for buy back. They tell me I was declined and I have a warranty so I should use it. NICE!!!! I want these people on a plate!!! Well Lemon Lawyer is prosuing in Indiana. After seeing some Indiana reviews here I'm bumed. Think German think BMW spend another 5 grand & shut up about it!- Dave
P.S. Goodluck to all of you out there.

-Posted by Dave on February 16, 2003 12:58 AM

Normal Guy

i own 2003 passat 1.8turbo so far i don't have any problem with anything the car runs exelent i got 3650 ml this is my third vw with last 2 i never had any major problem

-Posted by ivan radman on February 21, 2003 12:10 AM

Normal Guy

VW has claimed they didn't realize they had a problem with the ignition coils until October.

Nice try, VW.

They were aware of this problem long before October, 2002. Yet they did NOTHING to take care of this problem, proactively.

Now the whole issue has blown up in their faces. They finally issue a "customer service action" (LMAO!), yet dealers and customers aren't sure just what their replacement policy is... Could they screw this up any worse than they have?

The execs at VW of America in Detroit need to get a clue. That popping sound you'll soon hear from the Motor City will be the simultaneou pulling of VW execs heads from their behinds.

-Posted by Ted on February 21, 2003 12:33 AM

Normal Guy

I was 1 hour away from buying. I did a Google under Passat and found this site.I was ready to buy a 2003 v6 glx for $31,000. Iam rethinking it.

-Posted by on February 25, 2003 09:08 AM

Jeeze, if I had 31k to spend on a car, it would be a BMW, not a VW. Just dig up a two more thousand, and you'll have a 325i with the Sport Package and a moonroof (cd player and cup holders come standard).

That's what I bought in November, and I happily paid $34k (I got several more options than listed above). To be honest, I'd rather pay $34k for a Bimmer than $20k for a VW.

-Posted by Dan on February 25, 2003 09:26 AM

Normal Guy

Does the 325i wagon handle well in snow. this is for my wife. The only option she wants is heated seats. that would be leather i guess. i wonder what that would cost.

-Posted by Paul on February 25, 2003 09:47 AM

The wagon apparently does handle rather well, mostly by virtue of it being a BMW (famous for excellent handling cars).

The Wagon is about $2500 more expensive than the sedan, so it can get pricey, but a moonroof comes standard, so that's cool.

There's tons of good 3 Series BMW info at...

http://www.e46fanatics.com/

Read thru the forums for tons of good info.

-Posted by Dan on February 25, 2003 10:13 AM

Normal Guy

I just bought a new BMW 325xi. It was a choice between that and the Passat GLX 4Motion. If you want to compare comparably equipped vehicles (options and AWD) the BMW is about $5000 more. I believe you get more than $5000 worth of value going with the BMW.

The guy who is considering spending 31K on the Passat should also realize that I had the dealer down to 29,700 for the same car. They are getting $750 back from VW right now.

I am a little confused about the coil problem. I hear people refer to ignition coil, but I was under the impression that the coils in question were related to air delivery to the cylinder. Are these really ignition coils, and if so, why would there be more than 1?

-Posted by Maurice on February 25, 2003 02:36 PM

Just found a technical description of the coil problem.

A coil pack sits on top of each cylinder of the engine and serves as the ignition coil to fire the cylinder.

-Posted by Maurice on February 25, 2003 03:05 PM

I liked the amount of room of the back seat in the passat.
As far as wagons go there is really not much choice. We have a Subaru and the seats are so low my knees are up around the steering wheel. The new volvos really seem to roll and the brakes seem spongy. I dont understand why Honda
or Toyota wont make a great wagon. Wish could afford an e class 320.

-Posted by Paul on February 25, 2003 03:22 PM

Unfortunately I fell in love w/ a used 2002 Passat GLX (6 cyl)and w/out thinking WHY someone would trade away a loaded sweetie like this, I gave up my totally dependable Toyota Camry. Now I am waiting for the coil pack axe to fall. Good news is consumer reports says VW has finally seen the error of their ways and are doing an actual recall. Problem is its gonna take forever......Perhaps I'll try the Lemon Layers if I can.

-Posted by Rain on February 25, 2003 10:56 PM

http://www.theautochannel.com:8080/news/2003/02/04/154251.html
see site for recall notice!

-Posted by on February 25, 2003 11:13 PM

Interesting stuff!!!

I purchased a 2001-1/2 Passat Wagon in July 2001. Replaced right headlamp twice and left once within the last year. Replaced all four coils in November. The heater control lights go on and off.

I see that VW America has appointed a new quality control leader, Stefan Ketter, in Auburn Hills, MI to try to get to the bottom of the quality issues!

Maybe things will get better!!!:)


-Posted by Warren on February 28, 2003 11:38 AM

Just had the water pump replaced on my 2000 Passat. Called the dealership to see if it was covered under warranty, but never heard back. So, I brought the car to my mechanic. I then tried to get reimbursed through VW and was denied.

As anyone been successful in getting a reimbursement through VW?

As anyone been through a similar experience?


-Posted by Bill on February 28, 2003 12:22 PM

2002 VW Passat Wagon 32,000 miles.
First coil failed in June, 2002, next one failed in December 2002, next one failed in January, 2003, the last one failed in February, 2003. Numbers 2 and 3 have been replaced and number 1 has been replaced TWICE!! When we asked the dealership how this was possible they told us that until recently, failed coils were being replaced with defective coils!!!!! We have an 9 month old son and we actually bought this car because we thought it would be the safest and most reliable thing on the road...much to our surprise...
We have written a letter to our lawyer in New Hampshire where we purchased the car and we would be interested to see if anyone else from New Hampshire has had success with the Lemon Law!!!!

-Posted by Erin on March 2, 2003 09:11 PM

I am well rid of my 2002 Passat (Lemon Law victory), but I will be watching this board to see what happens with these cars. I am not at all sure that the new coils are any better than the old ones. They just may have enough of them to replace them and keep people happy while they "eat" up their warranties. When my 3rd coil went out in November they were going to replace all 4 with "J" coils. Then they called back and said they weren't. My lawyer said that's because they aren't any better. I don't trust VW at all. Their treatment of customers with this coil thing has been atrocious. If you own one be vigilant, know your rights, and keeps VW's feet to the fire. Kim

-Posted by Kim on March 2, 2003 10:29 PM

Well, well, well...I've heard sooooo much about the VW Passat coil problem & thought that I was in the clear. I purchased a 2002 1.8T Passat in July & have not had any problems...until this morning. I was a few minutes away from work when suddenly I lost quite a bit of power & the car started to "jump." When I got to work I looked under the hood & noticed that the exhaust manifold (?) was glowing orange because it was so hot.

My questions are:

1.)Is this what other people are experiencing with a bad coil?
2.) How long does this "normally" take to replace?
3.) Should I chance driving it to the dealer that is 10 miles away or have it towed?

-Posted by Ryan on March 4, 2003 08:27 AM

I am one of the unfortunate owners of a 1999 VW Passat. Eversince I bought this car, I have been going through some failure or the other quite consistently, and everytime I take it to the dealer, I end up spending $ 400-500. Problems are various types that range from front brake pads, back brake pads, rotors, coils, wipers, lights, engine parts, etc etc. I had the Engine check light flashing at around 43000 miles, and I was charged $ 480. Now again at 500000 miles I have the same problem. What is even more unfortunate is that I have taken extended warranty for 7 years/100000 miles. So far I could not use that EVEN A SINGLE TIME, because the dealer says that my problems are not covered. Can someone advise whats going on. Thanks, Sam

-Posted by Sam on March 5, 2003 09:59 AM

Oops! That was 50000 miles and not 500000 as mentioned in my previous message. Sam

-Posted by Sam on March 5, 2003 10:01 AM

I just bought a 2002 Passat this past summer. A headlight has been replaced. A month ago, a coil was replaced. Now, after having the light flash and car shake again yesterday - it's back at the dealership getting ALL the ignition coils replaced.

I am so depressed. I had done so much research before I purchased this car, Consumer Reports had named it the best Family car and Safest. After what's happened, and reading all these posts, I've lost all confidence in the car and VW. I have no idea now if I even have a safe car ?
My husband has to take it on the road for 6 hours tomorrow, and now I'm actually worried for him.

Anyone in Nebraska having these problems? Apparently we don't have a good Lemon Law here - ranked a lousy 33rd in the nation.


-Posted by Kathy on March 5, 2003 12:52 PM

I own a 2001 1.8L passat also. On week one, my electrical locks malfunctioned but noone could tell me why. My car did well until one year later when my skid plate tore loose on the interstate at 70mph. Then my little warranty expired. About 4 months ago, I had to replace two coils also--service center acted surprised that this had happened. Last month my mass airflow sensor broke, $450 to fix(VW of america felt bad for me and payed 1/2). NOW my computer reads "stop engine now, engine oil dangerously low". So I call my dealer and they told me to tow it in, at my expense. My wife and I bought this car thinking it would last 6-7 years until we were done with school. Now we have already starting dealing on a new Accord. If I can get this problem fixed now, I am unloading the passat tomorrow.

-Posted by chris on March 5, 2003 06:49 PM

I just bought a 1991 VW Passat a few days ago. We test drove it for about 45 minutes (city and express way), drove it home 80+ miles to where we live. Drove it around for 3 days after that. Not a single problem.

Yesterday I washed the car, and it started to misfire. I was on my way to the oil change place. When they popped the hood i looked at the distributor and saw it was abnormally loose. I tightened it down and it still misfired.

I then replaced the spark plugs, the distributor cap, and the rotor. The distributor is brand new. The car is still misfiring and the closest foreign auto mechanic is 40+ miles from here. I spent almost all the money I had on this car and I can't afford to get it towed 40+ miles ($150).

The VW repair place told me they are 99% sure that something happened to the plug wires. Other people have told me that the timing belt needs adjustment. Other people told me catalytic converter was clogged or bad fuel injector pump. I am at wits end with this car...I am very ignorant when it comes to the mechanics of cars and I have no idea what to do. Can anyone suggest something that could help me out? Thanks in advance!

-Posted by Eric on March 7, 2003 01:46 PM

Ok, replaced the wires. Still misfiring. Could I have water and/or too much gas in my oil?

-Posted by Eric on March 7, 2003 05:52 PM

Normal Guy

I guess I've been fairly lucky. I just had to go to the dealer 4 times right after buying my 2001.5 Passat in Feb. 2001, to get the defective left headlight replaced. I haven't had to replace the ignition coils yet, but I've gotten in line to have it done when the recall notices come out.
I have had several instances of apparent short-term malfunction of the ignition coils. If I drive off and there is an immediate sharp temperature fall from the car's parked temperature, say from 40 degrees to 32 degrees, shortly after driving away my engine light will start blinking and the car will start grinding and struggling. If I put the car in park and wait a while ("warm up"), the problem goes away as the engine warms up. Has anyone else had that happen? Are my ignition coils about to go?

-Posted by J.Purcell on March 9, 2003 08:07 PM

AFTER READING ALL OF THIS I WAS VERY CONCERNED TO SAY THE LEAST ABOUT BUYING A PASSAT. I LOVE THE CAR. I DROVE A BMW 3 SERIES, AND THE PASSAT WITH THE ESP HANDLES AS GOOD AS THE BMW. IT HAS THE SAME WARRANTY, AND THE SAME GADGETS THE BMW DOES, FOR AT LEAST 5,000 LESS.

REGARDLESS OF ALL THAT, I STILL WANT A CAR THAT IM NOT GONNA WASTE MY MONEY ON. SO I CALLED MY LOCAL DEALERSHIP IN ARIZONA FOR SOME ANSWERS. "IF YOU WANT TO KNOW THE DEALERSHIPS NAME EMAIL ME AND I WILL TELL YOU IT." I TALKED TO THE SERVICE MANAGER AND HE KNEW EXACTLY WHAT I WAS TALKING ABOUT. HE TOLD ME THAT THEY NOW CHECK ALL NEW CARS PRIOR TO THEM BEING SOLD TO A CUSTOMER FOR FAULTY COIL PARTS. HE SAID THAT ONLY CERTAIN ENGINE TYPES ARE EFFECTED BY THIS DEFECT. BY READING HERE WHAT EVERY ONE HAS SAID, I AM TENDING TO AGREE WITH HIM.

THE 2 ENGINE TYPES ARE THE 1.8 AND THE VR6 ENGINES. THEY USES THE SAME TYPE OF COILS. THE V6 ENGINES AND THE W8 PASSAT USE DIFFERENT PARTS AND ARE NOT EFFECTED. I FEEL A LITTLE CONCERNED STILL ABOUT THIS CAR, AND WHAT I HAVE READ HERE, BUT HE ALSO ASSURED ME THAT THEY NOW REPLACE ALL COILS IF 1 GOES OUT. HE SAID VW NOW HAS LISTENED TO ALL THE COMPLAINTS, AND THE DEALERSHIPS ARE GLAD THEY CAN NOW TAKE CARE OF THE CUSTOMERS LIKE THEY WANTED TO FROM THE BEGING. GOOD LUCK TO YOU ALL WITH YOUR PROBLEMS, AND I WILL STILL BE BUYING MY NEW V6 PASSAT.

P.S. DON'T BUY A CHEVY MALIBU. MINE HAS HAD THE ROTARS TURNED 3 TIMES, AND 1 OF THEM REPLACED. IT ALSO HAS HAD ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS, AND THE RADIATOR SEALS HAVE LEAKED. LUCKLY THIS WAS ALL COVERED UNDER THE WARRANTY. THANKS FOR YOUR TIME, AND THATS MY 2 CENTS.

-Posted by FUTURE BUYER on March 12, 2003 06:49 PM

I just contacted a lemon law attorney about my 2001 1.8t audi. My car has been in the shop 4 times and replaced with the so called "NEW" coils which still failed. I't seems like this may be more than just a coil problem and more of an electrical problem! I don't even feel safe driving my audi anymore, even the slightest shake makes me nervous. I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER AUDI AGAIN!!!!

-Posted by Jen on March 15, 2003 09:00 AM

Normal Guy

Had my 2001.5 Passat GLX for 1 year now nothing but issues with the car. From the shady salesman to the bogus service in Fleminton NJ....They SUCK!!!! I am at the point to sell this German POS and get a reliable japanese car!!!

-Posted by Rich on March 17, 2003 11:12 PM

Anybody have experience with repairing a Secondary Air Pump?

At 70k miles, my 1997 Passat VR6 starts acting up:

I have my car in the third time in three weeks for an
error code "411: Insufficient secondary air flow"
1st: Shop replaced oxygen sensor ($500)
2nd: Dealer replaced combi valve ($800)
3rd Same dealer wants to replace the entire secondary air pump ($850)

They say the pump overheats after a while of 20 min running in idle
and shuts down intermittently.
When you have no patience, you will never find the problem!
I realized the check engine light first to come on after hitting
a deep puddle with possibly lots of water near the air intake.

Overheating sounds like a root cause somewhere else
and continuously replacing the pump cannot be the right thing for me!

Does anybody have a clue on how they overheat ?
Can they be repaired ?

I'd appreciate your input!


Christian



-Posted by Christian on March 20, 2003 04:22 PM

(Please see February 10, posting above) I had the fifth (Yes, that's 5!) secondary air pump replaced yesterday. This is since June, 2002! I'm sort of lucky because I got the first one covered under the 50K warranty and each of the replacements have been under the 12 month warranty on replacements. I've also gotten a free loaner car the last several times (because I complain and ask for one)

The dealer says that 3 out of the five times there was water in the pump (from puddles?) which may have frozen (cold winter north of Boston) and burned out the motor.

The initial time was last June - the pump started making noise for several days in the a.m., then just failed.

The fourth time it failed was within 24 hours of being replace the third time. They then found the output pipe to the catalytic convertor was blocked and replaced that pipe.

Yesterday, they replaced two pipes and the secondary air hose, although they could find nothing wrong with them, and replaced the pump again.

The pump on my car is located high on the passenger side of the engine compartment and the intake is near the rear top of the engine. No water should be getting up there!

ANYBODY HAVE ANSWERS.

Thanks to the 3 people who have responded so far.

-Posted by Bruce Aspeslagh on March 20, 2003 05:29 PM

In the course of less than 2 weeks, I had to go to the VW dealership 3 times. The first to get ignition coils #1 and #2 replaced. The second time to get #3 and #4 replaced and #1 replaced again. And the third time to get the catalytic converter replaced. There is no doubt that the passat is nothing but an aesthetically pleasing piece of junk.

on top of that, i had to wait a ridiculous amount of time for the tow truck to pick up my car (5 hours).

To say that I was majorly pissed would be an understatement.

-Posted by mel on March 21, 2003 12:10 PM

UNREAL!! I used to work for VW and stood behind the product. I have a 2000 Passat GLS 1.8T and the thing is a piece of junk. My check engine light is constantly on. 4 times it's been in and each time it's on for a different reason. Latest one is "spark plugs." The dealer wants to charge me $450!!!

Don't even get me started on the Electrical problems. Currently my driver's side window is stuck in the down position...thank the lord I live in North Carolina! And everytime I try and roll up a window, lock the doors, set the alarm, adjust the sideview mirrors, basically anything electrical, the dang gas tank opens!! This car is a POS, and it pains me to say that. Never again will I buy a VW. I'd rather drive a Pinto!

-Posted by Joe on March 24, 2003 02:07 PM

I also have the VW Passat (2000 1.8T ATW model, 53K miles) with the perpetual Always-On “Check Engine” light (maybe that should be “Chuck the Engine” light). Last December, it went on and since then the Secondary air pumps been cleaned of water twice. A new pump was installed (along with its hoses, a valve cover gasket, vacuum lines, combi valve). Since then it’s been drained of water once, the fuel filter replaced and more vacuum hoses. And after the last repair yesterday it took a whopping 15 miles of driving before the light went on again. My guess is that the pump has water in it again.

My independent repair shop called the dealer and they said they have no idea why the pump is filling with water. (That’s no surprise as when the dealer fixed it the first time, they called to ask if I had been driving through any standing water “like a creek or pond or something”) The dealer said they just keep cleaning the pumps out. My repair shop noticed that the water is extremely clean, like it’s condensing from somewhere, and isn’t grimy like it’s been sucked in from the outside.

I’d appreciate any input anyone could give me about potential causes/repairs and tips regarding Indiana Lemon Laws or dealing with VW about getting this fixed.

Thanks.

-Posted by Rob on March 26, 2003 08:53 AM

I have bought a used 2000 1.8T Passat but I am witnessing a different problem that I hope someone has heard of. When my passat is at a stop the engine's rpms start oscillating from 800 to 1100. It causes me to have a rough acceleration when i start going (very annoying especially when someone else in the car thinks its my driving). I took it to the dealer a few times and they give me the same story that the computer doesnt show anything. But there is definitely an idling problem when the car's engine is under 1500 rpms. Any help?

Thanks.

-Posted by Jack on March 27, 2003 08:28 PM

I had something similar on my 2001 passat. My dealer replaced my mass air flow sensor ($450) and that did fix my problem. See my post above on March 5th. I have since traded my car for a honda accord. I will never purchase another VW.

-Posted by chris on March 31, 2003 11:01 AM

above posted in response to Jack's idling problem.

-Posted by chris on March 31, 2003 11:02 AM

In response to Ted's post on February 21, 2003 12:33 AM":

I don't care if VW Execs. ever pull their heads out of their butts. I've read enough. The cute passat wagon we were considering is out! We do not want to learn this much about coil packs or any other electrical glitches. Life is too short. Going to plan B.

Thanks to all those that posted.

-Posted by Bob on April 3, 2003 10:06 AM

Thank you for the last couple of posts. I am having the rough idle problem and have been told there is nothing wrong with my car, "It's Normal." I did have an oxygen censor replaced but that did not help. Can anyone shed some light on this subject.

-Posted by Brian on April 4, 2003 06:45 PM

This seems like the only spot I've seen for Passat service issues, so here's my tale of woe.

99 Passat GLS. Had it in for service countless times in the first two years I owned it, everything was covered under warranty so I didn't care (except for all of the lost time). One of the last things I had them look at was a squeaking noise coming from the front drivers side. sounds like a brake squeak, but is constant. Just driving along and the car is squeaking. They looked at it three times, convinced me to replace the front brakes ($550), eventually said that there was nothing they could do about it. So I've been living with the squeak ever since (1.5 yrs since it was last in) and it's maddening. Now, right at the 4 year mark, I have to replace the rear breaks ($550 at dealer, $300 at local import service shop) and have something like "cam spreaders" replaced under the powertrain warranty ($650 if not under warranty, however). Two days ago the transmission (tiptronic) started flaking out. On the dash all of the gears are highlighted, the car won't shift into 5th, and when coming to a stop it nearly dies before deciding to shift really hard into 1st. Can't wait to see what this is going to cost me. Oh, and by 45,000 miles all four tires were worn to the belt, had to replace those. Conversely, I have a '97 Saturn I use as a commuter (Chicago). I treat this car like crap - hard acceleration, hard braking, high speeds, oil changes when I think of it - yet have only had it in for service twice, costing me a total of $400 in six years. Even has the original tires (85,000 miles and they have decent, although sketchy, tread still)

The moral, to all who care, is stay away from VW. I loved this car despite it's failings in the first few years, and have tried hard to convince myself since that it's still a good car. But I can't deny it anymore, I was taken.

-Posted by David on April 8, 2003 01:00 PM

I have a Jetta GLX There currently is a somewhat recall on 2001 2002 and some 2003 VR6 ignition coils. Here is the link http://dealer.vw.com/vwpress/fullStoryA.html?release_id=5824
Hope this helps!

-Posted by Todd on April 9, 2003 03:16 PM

I see a few references to water in the secondary air pump on a Passat 2000 1.8T. I guess I'm part of a select group of owners now that have this problem and the associated consequences and frustrations. The dealerships think we use these cars as pontoon boats because of the water in the seconedary pump.
One guy at the a foreign auto repair shop thinks the water is backfilling from the catalytic converter.
I hope somebody posts a solution to this problem soon. I will if I find out.

-Posted by Alex D. on April 22, 2003 03:52 PM

Well I'm back (feb 16th posting) well I have settled with VW (dirtbags) My lawyer got me 5k and I keep the car. Until the day my check comes and I trade it in THAT DAY! I tell you don't let these people push you around get a lawyer and have them send a letter, and poof! VW responds in a whole new way than you have become accustomed to. It's sad that VW treats us PAYING customers so lame, but the lawyer is treated like somebody who bought a product and was disappointed with its quality and gets a refund. Also note that VW would not do a buy back cause that would claim guilt and would not be able to resell the car, in this country aleast. Good luck out there and bail out at the first chance you get!
I'm going to shut up now and goto www.bmwamerica.com
Dave

-Posted by Dave on April 22, 2003 09:23 PM

Gosh, I love my 2000 1.8 Turbo Passat but these repairs are driving me crazy!!

But for the longest time I get these occasional Check Engine lights and Emissions Workshop lights. I bring it in to a VW shop (not dealer) and they do the 30K tune up and change out the spark plugs because they think this is the problem. On my drive home I got the check engine light again. So I call them up and they tell me it could cost hundreds to diagnose.

So I bring it to the dealer where at least if something comes up it will be under warranty and they said the mass air intake sensor was bad costing $450. I promptly called 1800DRIVEVW and complained enough that they covered the cost.

But now the light still occasionally comes on and I also get the hesitant engine. It usually occurs when I am in first or second and when I am pulling out into traffic. I have to readjust my pressure on the clutch and gas and eventually it will start running fine again. But this hesitation is horrible because I can't just zip around anymore safely. Could this be the ignition coils?!

I just brought it in for 40K tuneup and to have them look into a weird high pitched noise I get from a cold start. More than $300 later they had switched out my spark plugs again (when I told them not to) and told me I need a new battery, evaporative air pump (what is that), and outer tie-rod boots. They only did the 40K tune up and at $385 that seems ridiculous!!! And I still have to bring it back in for all the other things! I got them to reimburse me the cost of the spark plugs but come on!!!

I love my Passat but will this ever end?! I want to buy a different car but we have this one paid off, my husband is due for a new car....Arg....

Erica

-Posted by Erica on April 23, 2003 01:56 PM

Thanks Everybody that posted their comments. This weekend I was about to buy a Passat. Won't be doing that now! This is ridiculous. I can't beleive that these losers are getting away with this. I feel bad for all those that had to go through this, but I'm sure glad that you all saved me from a long, dissapointing trip down that road.

Thanks again
Michelle

-Posted by Michelle on April 29, 2003 11:43 AM

So I decided to call Volkswagon myself yesturday. I looked on their web site and they did have a letter posted there about this problem - but the letter mentioned that they were going to fix the 2001, 2002 and early 2003 models. So I called them and asked about the 1999 and 2000 models - since that is what I was planning on purchasing this weekend. They claim that there is no problem with the 1999 or 2000 models at all. Am I just mistaken or were these complaints on here also about the 1999 and 2000 models. Please let me know.

Thanks
Michelle

-Posted by Michelle on April 30, 2003 09:37 AM

1996 Passat TDI, couldn't pay someone to get it out of my hair. My husband bought the TDI for its good fuel economy and it does get fabulous mileage, which is a good thing since that saved money and then some has to go to multiple engine repairs, not to mention the mechanical and electrical failures that constantly arise. We've already replaced two door handles and are facing replacing three more. Currently the only door that opens like it should is the rear passenger door. Thank goodness VW had the presence of mind to add the key/window feature, otherwise we'd be unable to even get into the car. The windows themselves are points of failure as well. They usually don't mind going down, but often refuse to go back up without some combination of turning off the ignition, opening and then slamming the offending door, and random furious clicking of the button. So even though the engine issues are bad, I'm more shocked about having two door handles come off in my hand in a month, and I'm a tiny person! Has anyone else had door issues? I might add that even though the door handle on the front passenger side is just fine, the door only opens from the inside due to the broken outer release mechanism.

-Posted by tangentgirl on April 30, 2003 12:41 PM

Michelle - I would not even THINK of buying a used VW. A revealing comment by the tow truck driver who took my NEW Passat away for the last time. He said that although he believes in buying American, you can't beat the Japanese when it comes to making reliable cars. I guess we know what he doesn't get called on to tow. Kim, who is happily driving the 2001 used Honda Accord bought to replace the new Passat.

-Posted by Kim on May 3, 2003 05:16 PM

I have a 1999 passat wagon and have to be honest and say I have had no problems with it until yesterday when a coil pack went out on me. I have 85K miles on it so maybe I have just been lucky. Unfortunatly it is $468 to repair it. I hope this is the correct amount and I'm not getting gouged by my dealer.

-Posted by Jeff Smith on May 9, 2003 01:53 PM

Normal Guy

I have a 2000 Jetta 1.8T and I am not saisfied with what I paid for. I had to bring my car in for many reasons, for example, break lights, window dropping (four times), console panel not lighting up, cup holder front and back breaking. Now my check engine light is on, my break rotars and pads needs to be replaced, which will cost me $800.00. I need to get rid of this car and get another car that will satisfy my needs and not put a hole in my wallet...

-Posted by Em on May 10, 2003 02:10 AM

I have a 1986.6 toyota supra with 190000 miles-replaced starter, timing belt, did brakes, everything else including clutch is original. Never any engine problems. I was going to buy a passat-the massive amounts of problems reportedn on the web and on your site convinced me to look further. I have a lincoln town car with 150000 miles, no engine or transmission problems. I think I will pass on passat purchase.

-Posted by len mumbauer on May 10, 2003 10:18 PM

I own a 1996 Volkswagen Passat GLS that I thought I got a great deal on. I have had nothing but electrical problems. At 50,000 miles the dash frized out, caught fire and cost me $700. The power windows work when they feel like it. The headlights randomly turn off (usually at night while driving down the highway) and subsuquently the windsheild wipers and AC fan quit working but if you pull back the and hold the brights on everything will then work properly as long as you hold the brights on (other drivers love this). You can enter the car only on the drivers side, but you can exit on either side. This car is ridiculous. I have no idea why anyone would buy any volkswagen product after reading these comments I just wish I would have found this web site 2 years ago. I have owned 2 hondas 1992 Prelude and a 2001 Acccord EX-V6 that I just traded on a new Tahoe and can say that the Honda is buy far worth the exra money for anyone considering a VW. I would sell my VW but I'm not a big enough asshole to sell this peice of shit to anyone.

-Posted by Max Courington on May 16, 2003 11:39 PM

My 2002 VW Passat has had 2 coils replaced, one oil spring and one entire new engine.

It currently is in the shop (has been for 14 days in the last month) and they now have told me I might need ANOTHER new engine.

Could take another 30 days!!!

My stop engine light comes on at high rates of speed (70 mph) on long trips (longer than 2 hours).

I, too, seem to break down in rural areas or the middle of the night.

The dealership has not provided me with a rental AND when I asked VW about a buyback they said no!

Any advice???


-Posted by Susan Nadolski on May 19, 2003 07:35 PM

Susan - The car is just last year's model! DISGUSTING!!!Call an attorney. Tomorrow. http://www.lemonlawamerica.com/ Kim

-Posted by Kim on May 19, 2003 08:47 PM

Hi Everyone -
I know I'm going to sound like a complete novice here - and maybe I missed it somewhere in the postings - but what exactly are the symptoms of the "coil" problems I keep seeing?

In Feb. 2002, I bought a 2002 VW Passat GLX 6cyl. Up until the past couple of months, I've enjoyed the car very much - it's been a pleasure to drive. However, recently it seems that the car is 'hesitating' and then lurching into gear when I press the gas pedal. I thought maybe it was because I'd used midgrade gas a couple of times (I know, I know, Premium is what the manual says - I was trying to get by with what would work). Anyway, I'm now wondering if this is a bigger problem. I just turned over 20,000 miles on this car, & it's time for service - So I want to be armed with information when I go in - which unfortunately is sometimes difficult when you're a woman. ANY ideas about this would be SO MUCH appreciated!

On another note, I have had to have both of my low beam headlights replaced before the car was a year old. It seems that it tends to happen when we have very cold weather/snow. I asked the VW mechanic about this - e.g. "Is this normal?" and his response was that VW's so 'focused on saftey' and that this particular type of light 'burns more intensely' than normal lights, plus it's smaller, etc. Whatever.

Thank you everyone :-)
Amy

-Posted by Amy in North Carolina on May 23, 2003 02:36 PM

PS....

If it is found that the "coil" issue is, in fact, my car's problem - - is it something that the warranty will cover?

Thanks!
Amy

-Posted by Amy in North Carolina on May 23, 2003 03:01 PM

My neighbor just jump started his wifes dead Audi with his new Passat. He says the Passat slips now and runs rough. He thought it would smoth out after a few miles but it didn't. It's automatic. Any tips? The Audi runs now and his wife is happy. Thanks!

-Posted by Hello on May 27, 2003 12:28 AM

My 2001 Passat is at the dealer for the sixth time for electrical malfunction - heating/air conditioning, horn, cruise control, sometimes the radio, have gone out repeatedly. is this related to the coil problem?

Have spoken with VW of America with little results.

Kim of California of May 19th: do you have the name of good lawyer in No. California?

carol

-Posted by carol on June 5, 2003 01:42 PM

New info from VW!

I loved my 2001.5 1.8T Passat . . . until two days ago when it misfired. I've had no problems up until now and only have 16,000 miles on it.

I used the VW Roadside Assistance & had it towed to the nearest VW service station for free. My dealer verified that indeed, it was one of the coils, and is replacing all of them at no cost. Fortunately, it looks like VW is stepping up and agreeing to replace ALL coils at no cost. They are also offering free alternative transportation.

From the VW web page: http://www.vw.com//VwSFB/index#
(Under "Contact VW"):

"Q: What is the latest development on ignition coils?

A: In a customer service action, Volkswagen of America is now replacing all ignition coils in 2001 and 2002 model year cars equipped with 1.8 liter engines, including the Volkswagen Golf, GTI, Jetta, New Beetle and Passat; 2001 and 2002 model year Jetta and EuroVan models with VR6 engines; and some 2001 and 2002 Passats with W8 engines.

To best serve the most affected customers, we designed a staggered approach. Customer letters will be sent in "waves" beginning in early June and continuing through December. These waves will be made up of a combination of customers throughout the United States and Canada with an initial concentration of customers driving vehicles that have experienced the higher failure rates. "

Hope this info helps!

-Posted by Kathryn on June 9, 2003 01:52 PM

Carol - I used William R. McGee 858-485-9332

http://www.californialemonlawyer.com/aboutus.htm

-Posted by Kim on June 9, 2003 07:08 PM

Hi everyone,
I just wanted to post some information that I got from Consumer Reports:
Volkswagen, Audi recall

Problem:
Some 530,000 2001 to early 2003 Volkswagen and Audis have been recalled because of potentially defective ignition coils that could lead to a partial loss of engine power, according to the automakers.

Through dealer service reports, the automakers noticed that the coils in the suspect vehicles were failing
at a higher-than-normal rate. If a coil fails, the "check-engine" light will blink and the car's performance may become rough, possibly to the point of losing some power. Neither Volkswagen nor the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration consider the coil failure to be a safety issue. VW says that roadside assistance is available for anyone who does not feel comfortable driving with a car that has a failed ignition coil.

Products:
The recall includes the Audi TT and A4, Volkswagen Golf/GTI, Jetta, New Beetle, and Passat--all with 1.8-liter engines. The recall also extends to the Passat with W8 engine, all Volkswagens with the 2.8-liter VR6, and all cars with an Audi 3.0-liter V6. The 2.8-liter V6 Passat is not affected by this recall. The majority of affected vehicles are 2001 and 2002 models. Only about 36,000 2003 vehicles are involved.

What to do:
Letters went out to consumers at the end of January 2003 notifying them of the problem, Volkswagen spokesman Steve Keyes said. Car owners should make an appointment with their dealer. At present,
VW is giving priority to those who have had an ignition-coil failure: broken coils will be replaced immediately. If the car has suffered a second failure, all the coils will be replaced. By March 2003, VW expects to be able to replace all ignition coils on a car if only one has failed.

In order to minimize inconvenience, Volkswagen and Audi dealers will offer alternative transportation at no cost while repairs are made, the company says.

For more information call Volkswagen at 800-822-8987 or Audi at 800-822-2834.


I read in a recent (I believe it was May) Consumer Reports issue updating this story that many consumers were having problems getting an appropriate response because this is considered a "service action" or "service bulletin" (as Kathryn noted above) NOT a recall.

Anyway, I called about mine - both VW USA & my local dealership, and both verified that my particular model is not affected by this recall --- ooops! SERVICE BULLETIN. I don't know how "The 2.8-liter V6 Passat is not affected by this recall" but I guess I got lucky this time. My car is still acting a little peculiar, so I'm not sure what's up with it.

Anyway, just make sure when you call the dealership, you use the phrase "service action" or "service bulletin" - - trust me, it will save you a lot of headaches - hopefully.

I hope this helps someone out there.

:-)
Amy

-Posted by Amy in North Carolina on June 14, 2003 07:41 PM

Anyone get any response on the headlight issue? I'm in for the fourth time now and we purchased the Passat Wagon in July 2001!!!

-Posted by Warren on June 17, 2003 10:16 AM

Remember me from back in January / Febraury. Well now a fourth coil on my 2002 Passat has failed.

Called VW asking them to repurchase my car. They want me to bring the car back to the dealer. I am hesitant to do this because they will be able to change the coil one more time and I will lose my Lemon Law right to a repurchase.

I am sick of this car. IT IS THE WORST CAR EXPERIENCE OF MY LIFE. I just want my money back and go buy a HONDA. Any advice on retaining a Lemon Law lawyer in Virgina?.

Are their fees contingent or on a retainer basis?. Do I need to park my car until the issue is resolved?. What should I ask from VW?. They have almost killed me (coil failure overtaking 18 wheeler on I-95), treated me like dirt and are unwilling to help me solve this problem. Would appreciate your advice on how to get back to them on this one.

-Posted by Julio on June 18, 2003 06:49 PM

Julio - Don't know about Virginia, but my lawyer said DO NOT take it to the dealer if you want to pursue lemon law. I did have to have the car sit broken awaiting resolution. Call a lemon law lawyer for consultation. They will give you the odds of success and you can decide if it is worth a car rental fee to get rid of the thing for good.

I got rid of my car in January 2003 with a VW lemon law buy-back. Guess what I got in the mail today??? The recall notice. What a joke. Kim

-Posted by Kim on June 23, 2003 10:22 PM

Kim,

Tx for the advice. Spoke to a lawyer. I took the car to the dealer for a diagnostic. Guess what -- its the ignition coil!. I asked them not to repair it. I called VW and asked for a refund. Its been 3 weeks and the car has been sitting at the dealer broken. I hope they decide to buy-back without requiring legal action. How did they buy you back precisely?. Purchase price, or purchase price PLUS interest paid, or even more than that?.

Saw a lady test driving an '04 Passat today. I was screaming like a mad-man begging her not to buy it !!

Julio

-Posted by Julio on July 5, 2003 06:00 PM

The lawyer wrote a letter demanding a buy back since I almost got run down on the fwy etc. VW paid the lawyer ($2500!! for one letter), took back the car, and returned all my payments less the time I drove the car prior to the first incident (2000 miles was my first). The lawyer heard back from VW within a week so 3 weeks doesn't sound good. Kim

-Posted by Kim on July 6, 2003 04:59 PM

I wish i had seen this site before i bought my 99 passat.
I can feel for all those who posted previously.
It's the same story.
My history:
bought aug 99
oct 99 radio bad
antenna replaced
nov 99 power steering leaked - dealer unable to find problem
jan 2000 - dealer found leak ordered new ps.
dealer ordered wrong part.
coil failed spring 2000
two catlytic converters replaced
oil leak from engine - thank god my model yr (99) has a 100,00 mile 10 yr warrenty. no cost
2003 - front suspension bad noisy. costs 1400 to replace multilink suspension - also ruined front tires another 300$
VW cust service does not care One Bit about any problems!!
squeak in dash on right side. like others gas mileage about 17 mpg - most likely because there is no power at low rpm's - even in the V6. check engine light comes on so often I wish I could CUT THE WIRE!!! Vacuum Line problem fixed for free - Recalled. I have dedicated the rest of my life to the DESTRUCTION of VW.
To all SPREAD the word!! These cars are JUNK. There is no excuse not being able to make a reliable car. I had a 89 camry with 170,000. the first 8 yrs I had no problems at all. To All Disatsified and pissed off VW owners UNIT with me to the Destruction Of VW, Audi!!!!!!

German engineering means nothing with out reliability.
Just look at Toyota and Honda!!!!


-Posted by steve on July 16, 2003 04:51 PM

Canadian (Ontario) experience; Check engine light at 70,000 kilometers. ( approx 44,000 miles). Dealer indicated secondary air injector pump failure; VW paid 50% cost of new pump, Did not offer relief on labour costs. Anywy on way home from dealer Check engine light (Emissions Workshop) came on. Back to dealer (Kanata), got stuck with cost of diagnosis and told that the technician thought that the cause was carbon build up that I should purge engine. Several tanks of gas later no change.

Scheduled fot emissions test for license renewal, should be interesting. If the car fails- will have to see what options exist here in canada.

Anyone with a Canadian experience that applies.

Thanks.

Other vehicles I have with no major failures (wear and tear only)
1983 Mazda 626, just turned over 360,00 kilometers. My Nephew now customizing it to his taste and intends to drive it for a few more years.

1990 MPV 4x4 r over 380,000 km, will probably get some body work done and hang onto it.


-Posted by rob on July 19, 2003 09:07 PM

While driving my 2001 Passat this weekend, the "check engine oil, STOP DRIVING" message came on. I got out, checked the oil - it was full - called my dealer and asked if this sounded like a severe problem, or had the Passats been having sensor problems. They said they'd had a few sensor problems, but since the car had plenty of oil, just to keep an eye on it.
I drove a few more miles but the light remained on. Since I was over 100+ miles from home, I decided not to chance it & pulled into a rest area. As I was slowing down to park, the car completely died, never to restart again.
The car was towed to VW, who are now saying the crankshaft has seized up and that in order for VW to cover it under the 10 yr/100,000 mile warranty, they need copies of all my previous oil changes/services.
Granted, it's easy to see I was foolish now for not keeping those. However, I do have a copy of my last oil change 1-1/2 months ago. There was oil in the car at the time of this problem. Has anyone else experienced this?? It sounds to me & plenty of my friends like an oil pump problem. I have a feeling I'm in for a long battle. Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

-Posted by Kelly on July 22, 2003 02:38 PM

2003 VW Passat Wagon 4 cylinder 1.8 T engine.
4902 miles. just drove back from maine on a 425 mile round-trip. check engine light flashes one week later. car not running right at all.

i call VW Roadside--fast, couteous serive. they send a AAA
flatbed. car towed to Bedford, MA--Minutemen VW. Sure thing, the ignition coil. They replace all 4 the same day, supposedly with a beefed-up version, and wash the car for me too. Good service, but questions about the overall reliability persist. This should not happen to a car with less than 5,000 miles, do you think?

-Posted by keith bond on July 23, 2003 08:10 PM

2000 Passat Repairs/Expenses

07-2002 Secondary Air Pump replaced app $480.00
11-2002 Air Flow Meter replaced app $430.00
06-2003 EGR Bracket replaced app $200.00
07-2003 Ignition Coil Pack replaced app $300.00
Secondary Air Pump replaced app $400.00

TOTAL $1810.00

That's app. $2,000.00 of repairs in 1 year. 2nd air pump replacement was not covered by warranty because (get this) -it contained water. Judging by some of the comments on this site, one would think VW is aware of the water problem. VW dealer inferred that our car had been driven through a large 'puddle of water' or had been submerged.
What a joke. But, this experience is no laughing matter.
Our Passat is in the process of being traded for an Accord, & we are now working through an attorney with future contacts with VW of America. Their 'Customer Care' phrase is rapidly becoming one of the more recogizable oxymorons in the English language.

-Posted by Bob Black on July 24, 2003 11:24 AM

96 VR6 GLX Went through 3 coil packs (plus one failed just after being installed at the dealer which the said was defective and replaced) in the first few months after purchase in 2002, replaced plugs and wires ... misfires on #5 Cylinder the fault code is usually the same ... fault happened twice on returning home from the dealer in Maryland ... cost nearly $ 2500.00 in repairs but also replaced hoses and faultly door handles/locks ... and lots of fighting for what I thought should be warranty repairs on repeated failures, so I took it to another independent mechanic who suspected faulty seals or oil fouling plugs, put oil in the cylinder under pressure, but no leaks - $250.

Tried spraying the coil down with water, but couldn't cause the fault while I was watching. Battery fails to keep a charge or won't start after driving in heavy traffic or idling for long periods. Three batteries in 15 months, but the generator/alternator check out fine.

Now I exported the car with me to with me to West Africa where I will sell it in a market where it won't look much worse than other cars here ... but with rainy season started I just want to reset the check engine light myself.

-Posted by Mr. Woz on July 28, 2003 09:38 AM

Hate to be the party pooper here, but I have a 1999 GLS and have never had a problem....Best car I've ever owned.

-Posted by JP on August 2, 2003 07:26 PM

I need info on a 200 Passat issue. When first started it will not go in 2nd gear and run. Must downshift and then upshift. Does anyone know what is going on with this car? Dealer told us to use different gas octane. We have already tried this and to no avail. They are being very evasive and non knowledgeable acting. We have an appointment next Friday 8/15/03. Someone please HELP US!

Sincerely
Ingrid

-Posted by Ingrid on August 6, 2003 02:06 PM

Was thinking about buying a used 2003 Passat for a song but think I'll stick to a Honda.

-Posted by Haroun on August 17, 2003 06:13 PM

I have a 2001 1/2 Passat V6 - love it except for the fact my headlights keep burning out. I had a Honda Accord for 5 years and I never had one bulb burn out - with the VW I have had 3. If this continues, may have to rethink my VW allegiance.

-Posted by GMan on August 28, 2003 04:36 PM

I have to agree and at the same time disagree with you. My 2002 Passat is my 9th VW car. None of them caused us problems. We love them. My daughters have a beetle each and I got the lemon. This is the only one causing me problems. My car has 27k and I am on my 3rd front/passanger tire. They all wore down as if they were not aligned. I took to service starting at 10k when I bought the second tire. They now tell me that I make to many hard hand right turns! I know I am a woman but I am not dumb. They confirmed that the wheels are correctly aligned, they cannot find the problem, and just sent me on my merry way. I am still not convinced. There is something wrong but I don't know what. Please help!

-Posted by Cecilia on September 5, 2003 10:30 PM

Bought a 2001.5 Passat in July 2001 and had the car in the shop over 15 times for various things (28,000 miles):

glove box- three trips- replaced twice
key- two trips- (reprogrammed first trip didn't fix anything) replaced second trip
Mysteriously one day car doesn't start ... they tow the car only to be told later we must have 'flooded' the car (hadn't happen before hasn't happen since - my guess is coils).
Fuel sensor replaced
The headlight has been replaced once and is out again.
Rear Rotors on brakes replaced twice (both dealer and Volkswagen say this doesn't seem abnormal).
Front of vehicle repainted twice.
CD player replaced
Check engine light would not go off - take in to service
My front right door speaker is going out
I took it in for a recall

Worse yet is the customer service ... we have called, emailed anyone that would listen but basically nothing has been done (we basically get sorry ... and here is your reference number). VW should be ashamed and embarrassed at their quality.

-Posted by Billy Boone on September 8, 2003 08:57 PM

Bought a 2001.5 Passat in July 2001 and had the car in the shop over 15 times for various things (28,000 miles):

glove box- three trips- replaced twice
key- two trips- (reprogrammed first trip didn't fix anything) replaced second trip
Mysteriously one day car doesn't start ... they tow the car only to be told later we must have 'flooded' the car (hadn't happen before hasn't happen since - my guess is coils).
Fuel sensor replaced
The headlight has been replaced once and is out again.
Rear Rotors on brakes replaced twice (both dealer and Volkswagen say this doesn't seem abnormal).
Front of vehicle repainted twice.
CD player replaced
Check engine light would not go off - take in to service
My front right door speaker is going out
I took it in for a recall

Worse yet is the customer service ... we have called, emailed anyone that would listen but basically nothing has been done (we basically get sorry ... and here is your reference number). VW should be ashamed and embarrassed at their quality.

-Posted by Billy Boone on September 8, 2003 08:57 PM

2002 Passat GLX 30v 5m
I spent over two months shopping and reviewing Passatsand failed to read anything but commercial feedback. If only I had logged on to a site like this first... I ended up buying a used 2002 GLX with 17550mi. The deal I got was great I thought ($21,200). When I drove it the break rotors seemed to be warped."No problem" says the dealer. "They are in warrenty and we'll replace them." I also noticed that the car over revved in between shifts (I have the manual). "Also in warrenty" the guy says... I buy the car and call every dealer in Houston. the soonest they can "fit me in" was three weeks. I grumble about this and agree to make an appointment at Momentum VW. Over the next trhee days my car almost accelerated into two other cars in traffic and once the tthrottle stuck open with the clutch in and the engine over revved until I turned the key off. The next day the dealer agrees that this sounds dangerous and takes the car in and puts me in a rental. They call me to pick up the car saying it had a bad cruise control code and that the problem was fixed. As I drove off the accelerator stuck again and I turned around and went back. They told me since the car was on the lot for thirty days or more that it likely had something sticking internally and to drive the car a few more days to see if it got better. "No Dice" It got worse over the next week and I called to explain. They asked me to take it in and let the head tech drive the car. He could not duplicte the problem. Two days later I almost hit a truck in stop and go traffic and call the dealer to tell them what had occured. they oredr a throttle body and replace it. While testing the car it over accelerated three times while driving with the tech in the car. He had the computor hooked up and told me all the readings were good. "I don't no what is causing this" he says. So, they put the shop manager in the car to drive it. Telling me he is a racew car driver. He can't duplicate the problem and I say let me ride with you. When the problem occured with him driving he said that the reason the throttle would not close was that there was unburned fuel in the engine and it would continue to rev until the fuel was spent. The computer was making it over rev to comly wit emissions regs. I said " this is dangerous and what if I had an automatic tranny and could not engage the clutch. I would run into everything. This is probably why the rotors were warped and why the original owner dumped this peice of s**t." They told me everything is good and that is the way the car is supposed to work and not to worry... My question is why did they put on another throttle body if nothing was wrong? Avyone else have this problem with the 30v engine or with the manual tranny?

-Posted by stephen on September 10, 2003 11:30 AM

the epoxy worked great. now if i could just get that abs light to turn off. any one have an idea. 96 vw passat vr6

-Posted by josh mcdaniel on September 10, 2003 04:07 PM

My ABS light was on due to two cables that connect the ABS to the brakes were somehow broken. I think you should have a machanic look into the problem.

-Posted by Dan on September 10, 2003 04:17 PM

hELP!! I have a BMW 5 SERIES "L" REG UK. Was hit up the bumper - damage repaired but since then the radio/cass/cd will not work.I know the radio is good and the speakers are good - 5 different local garages have tried to make it work- all say "they cant understand it"Several working machines have been tried with no luck.
During repairs the battery was allowed to go flat - I'm sure its something to do with that- radio does not need code nor apparently does car so why wont it work? Present radio shows station id and CD SHOWS TRACK PLAYING BUT NO SOUND!! Any ideas?

-Posted by on September 11, 2003 06:45 PM

Reseting the VW's computer warning lights.
Disconnect the ground on the battery for 15 min. If the problem that was causing the light to come on was fixed then after a few start ups the light should go away (atleast this works for the check engine light).

-Posted by Mikeyi on September 15, 2003 01:21 PM

I was wondering when people would start coming on here who bought the cars we so thankfully got rid of through the Lemon Law. VW should be ashamed!!! What a scummy company. Kim

-Posted by Kim on September 17, 2003 06:19 PM

Hello,

I purchased my Passat in 2001. Never ever had a problem with the car. I received my RECALL letter in the mail regarding the ignition coil problem. I took my car in for a 40,000 mile tune-up and the recall. After picking my car up from the dealership after the tune-up and coil replacement, I was not more than two miles down the road and my engine caught fire.........from quess what.....the NEW AND IMPROVED ignition coil. This was determined from the Fire Company and Smith Volkswagon. Initially The Smith Volgswagon dealership in Wilmington, Delaware told me to have my car towed back to them to deterimine the cause, AND I SAID NO.....YOU HAVE IT TOWED BACK......they were onsite within minutes. No more Volkswagons for me.... My car is only 1 1/2 yrs, I'm paying $450 a month for a car that will never ever be the same due to the engine fire for which they recalled and fixed with even worse parts....I'm pissed!!!! All you people out there that have had your coils replaced....BEWARE!!!!

-Posted by Evelyn Russell on September 25, 2003 07:07 PM

Hi,
Just thought I would let you Know from The other side of the channel the UK. I own a 1999 Passat 1.8T saloon (sedan), which I purchased in September of 2002, with 134000 Km (81000 miles). To date the Passat has totalled 172000 Km (104000 Miles) without a single problem. Its been fully serviced by main VW dealers until September 2002 and now is looked after by a small independent specialist. No coils have packed up, Never had a headlight replaced. I cannot fault this car and would recommend it to many. As For owning other cars I also own a 1996 Toyota Carina (corona in some markets) and I have had more problems with that than any other car I have owned i.e. misfiring (comes and goes), warped rotors (new ones only last about 6000 miles before warping). Blows headlight/ rear taillight bulbs like no mans business. That is what happens when you let the French Companies do all the electrics for the car instead of the Japanese. So would buy another Toyota or Passat??

LIKES

As good as a BMW or a Mercedes costing £1000’s less.
Quick for a family car.
Looks good without attracting too much unwanted attention.

DISLIKES
Radio reception on Fm is Brilliant, But terrible on Am. (That is the downside of having a bee sting Arial)

Does love the Juice averages (UK) 22mpg city and 33- 37 Motorway. Remember that petrol is 0.75p/Litre and will be going from next month so it works out to be very expensive. But it’s comparable to other cars of similar performance.

Uses half litre oil between services.

The insurance is expensive.

NOW THERE IS ARUMOUR GOING AROUND IN THE TRADE IN THE UK THAT THE REASON FOR THE COIL PACK FAILURES WAS THAT VW GERMANY DECIDED TO OUTSOURSE THERE MANUFACTURING OF COIL PACKS TO A TUNISIAN COMPANY AND THAT IS THE REASON FOR THERE FAILURE AS THE QUALIY OF THE PRODUCT WAS NOT 100%.

NOTE THAT THE ORIGINAL COILPACKS OF THE EARY VW/AUDIS COST £50/£60 EACH ON AVERAGE, WHERE AS THESE LATER ONES WERE ONLY COSTING £12/£15 EACH IN THE UK. SO CHECK THE MAKE OF COUNTRY BEFORE YOU HAVE ANY COILS FITTED.


-Posted by Sajad Khan on September 26, 2003 02:19 AM

This is one of the things I've noticed about Volkswagens; some people have absolute nightmare experiences, and other have Jettas from the 80's that are still going stong.

In my family in particular, we have had three VW experiences that were horrible, and zero VW experiences that were good. the first was a mid 80's Rabbit Cabriolet that had electrical and maechanical issues. A late 80's or earley 90's GTI had three clutches within a year, and my 96 Passat has sooooo many problems that fixing them all is putting me in the poor house.

I will never buy a VW again (and I'll never buy an Audi or Porche either).

-Posted by Dan on September 26, 2003 09:44 AM

I own a 2000Passat GL, 4 turbo, 5 speed. Purchased new, currently has 59,000 miles. This is a well taken care of car by my husband but 2 months ago light came on low oil pressure. Oil pump has now been replaced by dealership twice and the third oil pump has now failed. Dealer has contacted Volkswagon who has opened up a case on my car and I still don't know what the heck is wrong with it. They've had my car about 1 month now and I'm just waiting to get it back so I can trade it in on a Toyota. If anyone has had a similiar experience please e-mail me!


-Posted by Joanne on October 1, 2003 09:29 AM

I have a 2002 Jetta 1.8T and have had a few problems with it...the first incident was so bad that the engine was replaced at 5,000 miles. But what I'm really wondering is if anyone with any VW which has heated seats, has had the seat catch on fire?
I recently had my heated seat catch on fire and burn me, not to mention almost cause a horrible accident when I realized I was on fire. If anyone has had a similar experience please e-mail me.

-Posted by Jara on October 7, 2003 12:30 AM

VW agreed to repurchase my Passat. I immediately took the check to an Acura dealer and got myself a 3.2 TL Type S for $2,000 more.

I am loving it!. ZERO problems, great performance just a couple thousand more than that piece of VW crap.

Stick to the Japanese stuff. VW is not worth the hassle. If they keep doing what they are doing they are not going to be around for much longer (did you notice their quarterly results? DISSMAL).

Re,

Julio

-Posted by Julio on October 30, 2003 11:51 AM

1999 Passat- 47,000 miles. Oil Pressure light on but oil level is ok. Been at the dealer now for 3 weeks, have had regular oil changes- first 20,000 at the dealer. They claim it needs at least a new oil pump $1100 but most likely a new engine $7800 and that despite the regular oil changes at less than 5,000 miles the problem is a maintenance issue not a warranty issue. Anyone with a similar experience, success on getting them to cover under the warranty? Thanks

-Posted by Mike on November 7, 2003 11:55 AM

I have a 2002 passat and seem to have some of the same problems. My car is now in the shop for the third time because of the oil pressure light and stop engine. It appeared to be intermittent and oil changes and checking the oil were fine. Two weeks ago when I had the car in the shop for the same problem, they told me it was the sensor and repaired it. The same problem continued and now they are telling me there is sludge in the oil.

I have a few reciepts for oil changes, two in the past two months. the car has 30, 000 miles and has been to the shop for all recalls and checkups. I cannot locate two reciepts for oil changes and noone wants to take responsibility for payment.It is under warrenty but I have to prove that I have had all my oil changes. I am also not convinced this is going to fix the problem. The car hesitates so significantly that Its frightening.
Anyone with similar oil pressure problems?
Any suggestions? Thanks

-Posted by Debbie on November 10, 2003 03:42 PM

Way to go Julio!!! Debbie call a lemon law atty. Look back to the posts from one year ago. Both Julio and I are now rid of ours at VW expense and driving Japanese. Kim

-Posted by Kim on November 20, 2003 12:42 AM

i just just bought a 97 passat and i am noticing that it can be very expencive to get things fix by the dealership. i really appreciat your little tip on fixing this problem, i haven't experienced it yet but when i do i'll be sure to try the cheeper of the two fixes first...thanks

-Posted by jon on November 29, 2003 02:08 AM

I have had great luck so far with my 2002 GLX. 28 K miles. However I am having the same healight problems that others have mentioned. I blew out one after less than a year and know both low beams are blown. Dealer has replaced quickly. I am going to ask them if their is an aftermarket alternative (better bulb). Keep you posted

-Posted by Warren on December 4, 2003 08:59 AM

I have had great luck so far with my 2002 GLX. 28 K miles. However I am having the same healight problems that others have mentioned. I blew out one after less than a year and know both low beams are blown. Dealer has replaced quickly. I am going to ask them if their is an aftermarket alternative (better bulb). Keep you posted

-Posted by Warren on December 4, 2003 08:59 AM

I have a 2002 Passat. What a peice of junk!!!! I have the same problem that Kelly describes above. My check oil light came on and the "stop" light. I stopped immediatly and called the 800# to get a tow to my local dealership. Coincedentally I was on my way to the dealership when the oil light came on because my car was not going and my check engin light was on. They told me to drive it over. When they looked at it they said the check engine light was a coil and the oil light was no oil in the motor. I was 2000 miles late on my next oil change (7000 miles instead of 5000) and I did not keep my reciepts for the other oil changes. They said that one problem had nothing to do with the other and they are charging me over $800 to fix the problem on a car that only has 26000 miles on it!!!! What a crock. Beware - don't buy a volkswagon!!! Buy a Toyota they never break!!!

Robin

-Posted by Robin on December 5, 2003 08:17 AM

I just took my 2002 passat into Firestone for alignment and tire rotation/balance. The mechanic determined that I needed to replace my back brake pads since one of them is fairly worn. I have 28,000 miles on the car and the front brake pads are only 10% worn where as the one in the back is over 80% worn (according to the mechanic, it looks worn but I don't know how to determine the percent). Has anyone else had to replace the pads after only 28,000 miles? I've owned two other cars for many years and have never replaced brake pads. The service person at VW said that the back pads normally wear more on VWs than the front one (which is not what other cars do)...any thoughts? She suggested that it might be my driving...but prior experience with other cars would not suggest that, hmmmm.
Tina

-Posted by Tina on December 16, 2003 10:10 PM

I have a 99 Passat, noticed my break light out, replaced bulb pushed brake and now it won't shift out of park. It is absolutely stuck. I am also experiencing the electrical problems as others, like no cruise control, very bad radio reception, squeaking in the front suspension. I have 86,000 miles on it and have been fairly happy or maybe I should say fairly patient. Does anyone know how to get the blasted thing out of park???

-Posted by Bishop on December 17, 2003 08:56 PM

Hey guys i got a 2003 V6 30Valve Glx Passat just about 1yr old feb 18 2004 is one yr old. I have had no problems all yr and car is driven in Florida. Since Thanksgiving when i drive the car at highway speeds the car runs great no hesitation and runs just flawless. However, on city Driving when u stop and go Especially when u Slow down than have to Accelerate the engine Hesitates or Misfires. This doesnt happen often and currently isnt occuring on a frequant basis. i took the car in 2 times for this issue the 2nd time the engine light registered Two Random Misfires and a Low Voltage DTC. However the S11 Code did not register to any known issues. THIS SOUNDS LIKE the beginning of the Same issues i have read here were the engine will misfire and it can be a Coil problem.

Does this Sound familiar?????

Thank you

-Posted by Jim on December 19, 2003 05:17 PM

Hi guys its me again after reading all the Recalls and notes about this coil issue I notice that the 2003 V6 2.8 190hp DOHC Engine is the only one not on the recall. HMM this is very interesting. My Model 2003 V6 GLX has the V6 2.8 190HP engine. If it is not on the recall then why am i now having this misfire or hesitation at low acceleration. Uggg VW dealers keep saying everything thing is normal and that they cant reproduce the misfire...

Thanks

-Posted by Jim on December 20, 2003 01:05 AM

This link has a nice explaination and history of the problem. http://www.mylemon.com/VW_18T.html

-Posted by Chris Pfahl on December 21, 2003 06:17 PM

Here are some high performance aftermarket coils. They look really easy to install.

http://www.ignitionsolutions.com/productsDirect.asp

-Posted by Chris Pfahl on December 21, 2003 07:17 PM

Well, well....I have a 2002 Passat that I thought I loved. Now after the engine coil replacement recall (thank goodness I wasn't stranded) I am replacing headlights like crazy at $120.00 a pop! I am in Arkansas and surely the cost must be wrong.

-Posted by Stella Lasker on January 9, 2004 12:36 PM

I have a 2002 Volks Passat 4 motion--Have had it back 5 times for breaks squeak and excessive noise. Dealer says its normal noise. It happens at every stop. Any one had any luck getting this problem resolved???


-Posted by Brian on January 9, 2004 07:12 PM

I have a 2002 1.8L auto Passat. Coil nightmares like everyone else posted here (5 1/2 weeks I was in a rental the first time, after only having driven my brand new Passat for three moths -- all the whil still making my payments....), rattles from everywhere, stereo keeps coming loose from its bracket and not working, and you cannot lcok the doors with the driver's side lock switch, making me feel very vulnerable in dark parking lots....

Three weeks ago, my STOP BRAKE FAULT light started coming on intermittently, but VW says not to worry and just continue driving it until they can fit me in (which would have FINALLY been five days from now)

Yesterday, while driving home from work, I realized I was spewing white exhaust from my tailpipe, so I pulled over and parked it. Took 4 1/2 hours for tow truck to come via Roadside Assistance, and driver tells me sounds like I blew my head gasket.

I don't know much about cars, but I know a head gasket is serious business. How does this happen, and do you think VW will cover it under my warranty (I have 1k left on it).

I ask because VW is closed until Monday (it's Sat nite) and I am biting my nails thinking about the fight I am probably going to have to put up to get any kind of service whatsoever....

Like everyone else, I love VWs, but can't justify buying them anymore. On top of evrything else, I'm sick of the comments from friends and co-workers who warned me about buying one ie "I told you so" I feel like a sucker.

-Posted by Jenny on January 10, 2004 09:36 PM

Ok, I purchased a 2002 Passat in August 2001. By June 2003 the ignation coil and other serious (engine light) problems began. After 10 days in two dealers the supposedly fixed teh problem.

Nov 2003. Driving down the highway the engine loses power, breaks, steering as the ignition light flickers on solid. off... off. on solid. By the grace of god i was near an exit ramp which blessedly has a VW dealer at the bottom.

After 50 days in the dealership, three weeks of persistent calls to VW "Costumer Care "Advocates". The care is still not operatinal.

Sent a lemon law letter to

VW Customer Care
Dawn Dameron
3499 West Hamlin Raod
Rochester HIlls , MI 48309
(248) 754-3000

Still have not heard back from Ms. Dameron after one letter and two calls.

Does anyone know of an ongoing class action lawsuit against VW?

Does anyone want to participate in a class action lawsuit?

Does anyone know an exceptional lemon law attorney in NJ?


-Posted by Jersey Dude on January 13, 2004 02:20 PM

Thanks to ALL!! I was thinking of purchasing
a 1996 Passat that is a "good deal".
No way, back to Camry hunting..

Thanks again.

-Posted by Jason on January 17, 2004 10:20 PM

I have been reading all of the posts and I wish I would have known this before I bought my Certified Piece of a 2000 Beetle. I bought my car 5 months ago after,I was hit by a drunk driver. I had a 92 honda that never gave me any problems and it had 140k miles. My Beetle has had 18 different repairs since the day I bought it. It qualified under Texas lemon law with the previous owner. But because of the way that Volkswagon reports the warentied repairs it didn't show up for the dealer I bought it from. I have had, brake problems, hesitation, broken sun roof, fuel door, blinkers, oil leak, new battery( after a week) plus other repairs. I feel for everyone on here. I got a lawyer and I received a settlement letter 2 days ago for a measley $1000. Drivers Wanted? They treat their customers like you know what! I will never buy another Volkswagon. If you are looking at buying a Certified Used Car, DON"T! I thought that I would be fine, its certified! I drove the car off of the lot with problems and did not know it, it finished inspection the day before I bought it! I thought that my car didn't have a light in the trunk for 4 months, till it turned on one night! If anyone has any advice or problems with their New Beetle please let me know! Mine has the heated seats, does anyone have any info about the seat catching on fire? I read someone's post from a while back that had a problem with that. Should I worry?

-Posted by Anderson Pool on January 19, 2004 06:04 PM

I've had my secondary air pump dumped of water FIVE times, and replaced once in a little over 12 months. The check engine light is on again and I beleive it is the secondary air pump again, the SIXTH time in a little over 12 months. I have also been consistenly unhappy with the customer service.


-Posted by Angel on January 27, 2004 10:48 AM

Any frustrated owners of 1999 Passats with persistant misfires which the dealer reckons Plug Leads will resolve and do not.