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Additionally, after I've replaced the transmission control module about a year ago, the downshift from 2nd gear to 1st gear seems to be little rough, especially as I try to make it up a hill.This is a sporadic problem and I've originally thought that it might be the transmission. I've had the dealer inspect the transmission and replace the transmission fluid. The dealer didn't find anything unusual and the fluid was normal. I still have sporadic problems, especially as the car is warmed up.
Can you share some thoughts on:
1. Car's horn
2. MIL light (how do I clear it), because the car is running fine
3. Sporadically rough downshifting transmission
Thanks.
Navy guy who is stationed in Seoul, Korea
MIL - are there any OBD II readers in Korea?
Transmission - no clue.
Krzys
The only way to deal is to pull the wheels to check. And be aware that it is possible the outer pad looks pretty good, but the inner pad is more worn. I had that happen on the rear brakes on my '03 Passat, with the original pads. At 20K miles, the inner pads were shot.
( VW - Audi that is ) Janice ////////////////////////////////////
On Saturday, my oil dip stick funnel cracked and came up with the dip stick when I tried to check the oil. Good thing you guys advised me on getting a spare dip stick and the funnel set. The local mechanic installed the new set in about a five minutes for free.
The transmission is still a mystery to me. When the car is warmed up (driven for more than an hour), periodically the transmission downshift little rough. I'm guessing that the transmission control module needed a different programming. I think I can live with it.
Thank you for your comments. Sure appreciate it.
Navy Guy
The car is in good shape. I got the timing belt/water pump replaced recently, oil changes have been occuring every 4 - 5k miles and I have been on top of all other basic maintenance issue. My coolant must have a leak because i'm replacing that every 3 weeks which is annoying, but I haven't noticed any serious affect on the car.
So, what can I be doing in addition to all of that to keep the car running? I noticed something about "CV joint" replacement...is that something I should start planning for? Is there something I can do at home to prevent this?
Anything would help, thanks!
I also experienced sputtering problems with another VW which was water in the gas. Once the fuel filter was changed and some additive put into the tank and I ran the thing dry, the problem disappeared.
There are several posters on here who will be very helpful and certainly know more about these beasts than I ever will. Good luck.
Did you get any kind of warranty?
The timing belt broke on my '03 Passat which destroyed the engine.
The VW dealer would only give me a 3-6 month warranty on the engine replacement and NO warranty on his labor. I said "no" and sold the car to a junkcar dealer.
I plan on working on it later tonight.... I'll keep you posted. If you have any updates, kindly post.
Thank you.
Did you ever get an answer to this question or get the car fixed? I'm having exactly the same problem - every symptom. BRAKE on, handbrake alarm, no wipers, fan, or directionals in my 02 Passat.
Appreciate any help you can give.
thanks
don
thanks much...
For what it's worth, I have a 1999 Passat GLX, so maybe this info is out of date.
The first 80K miles were a dream. I loved the car. But then stuff happened: oil leaked from the valve cover gaskets, making an awful smell; the air conditioner couldn't hold pressure, but no leak was detectable; the boots on the CV joint/axle wear out; the Bosch controller on the abs brakes went bad, causing most of the instrument panel to go haywire ($600). A switch on the air conditioner has gone bad($200 parts, $300 labor). The CV axle fell apart at 130K while I was driving (no harm done, i was literally across the street from my repair shop!)($300).
So as others around here have said, if you like the car, buy the extended warranty, and when that runs out, get a different car.
I wouldn't have another Passat under any conditions. Cannot afford the repairs, the downtime and the embarrassment. There will NEVER be another in my driveway. Test drive an Altima or the Maxima if you want a good car.
Thanks again..
Thanks..
thanks..
I think any of them requires 91+ so why are you adding 89?
How much do you idle?
Krzys
Is this a common problem on this model at this mileage?
Does anybody have an idea of what he has done? Is my assumption correct?
Will the joint eventually fail because it can't flex?
Does anyone have or know where I can find an exhaust diagram and parts breakdown for this car?
Thanks
Have a great New Year!
Shiftright, Visiting Host
I'll let current owners comment on the reliability of their VW wagons, but neither is likely to come without issues. The difference with the VW is that you'll have the full warranty to start with.
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