I can tell you that I had my VW dealer reporgram my locks so they didn't lock by themselves when exceeding 8MPH. My left rear door lock made a buzz sound when the door was locked. So, the dealer should be able to reprogram the locks using, I believe, a tool called VAG.
Your dealer can give you any combination of these options, or you can DIY if you have the VAG-com software:
Auto lock at 8 mph, or not. Unlock with key removal, or not. Alarm sounds with keyfob lock, or not. Alarm sounds with keyfob unlock, or not. Lights flash with keyfob lock, or not. Lights flash with keyfob unlock, or not.
The hatch unlocking with all doors IS NOT an option. You must use either the keyfob, the driver door-mounted switch, or the actual (hidden) key slot in the hatch itself.
bhottle - I bought a carbox liner at http://mats4less.com/1997onpassta.html. I got the beige version to match my interior. It's a nice match. It has this raised car pattern on it that's somewhat goofy but I can live with that.
I would recommend also getting the rear seat add-on tray, which they didn't have when I ordered.
Enjoy your new wagon; it sounds like a beautiful color combination.
After much looking around, 2 days ago I located and put a deposit down on a Passat wagon 1.8 manual with 4motion. It's still in Germany at the port and scheduled to arrive at the dealer in about 3 weeks. By the way, these cars in sedan form, are beginning to trickle into the NY metro area. The wagons are still virtually impossible to find without ordering from the factory. Really, I've been waiting for this car for about 5 years. I'm a little concerned about the power but, take great solice in the easy tunability of the 1.8 motor. I figure, with some slightly stiffer springs and shocks and a bit of a HP boost, this will be a world class car. More car for the money than an A4 quatro and, IMO, much sounder ergonomics. I'll give a report on it when it arrives!
Ready to own a 04 Passat GLS, but wondering why there are more Subaru Outbacks than VW Passat Wagons in New York City. Is Subaru Outback a better choice? Can anyone tell me your Subaru experience?
We bought a new Passat 4Mo wagon a year ago. Until then an '89 Subaru DL 4WD wagon had been our only vehicle. I bought that new as well. I shopped the Outback VDC at the same time along with the Passat because of our good experience with our Subaru wagon (194,000 miles strong). However, after test driving both for extended periods and going through a negative sales experience with the Subaru dealer I happily opted for the Passat.
Other than occasionally wishing for a little more ground clearance when we're off the beaten path I have no regrets thus far.
I'm considering a passat with 4motion. Never had a vw. I'd like to you to tell me how satisfied or disatisfied with the car. Is 4motion a help in the snow. I'm in nyc. I wonder if it really is an advantage in snow. Overall does the passat measure up to the competition? I've heard good and bad about vw. I don't personally know too many vw drivers.
We looked at both before buying a 2003 GLS Wagon. Liked both. What sold me was the upscale interior on the VW. It is a bit lower to the ground but that makes it handle better on the road. I was worried about quality having owned Honda's and Mazda's that were/are free of problems. We have had the VW since mid Sept of 2002 and have 24K miles. We have had 2 recalls(fender well and coil wires) that had not been an apparent problem to us. The only thing that we have had break/wear out was one of our fog lamps(not sure what happened so early in the bulbs life but we were charged). Absolutely love driving the car everyday. Front wheel drive has been just fine in the snow. You can't go wrong with either choice.
Out of curiousity why didn't you compare the Passat to the Lecagy, or the Legacy GT. They handle and ride better than the Outback and would be more comparable to a Passat
The dealer is correct. Many things affect mpg including many of the things you mention above.
- The engine is not yet broken in - give it time. - Oil refiners use winter fuel additives to reduce emissions which does the same to fuel mileage. - It's the EPA that determines the mpg on the sticker based on a computer simulated test loop - weather, wind, et al are not figured in. - Your driving style affects mpg as does traffic conditions.
Give it some time. If it still isn't getting closer to the EPA estimates at around 10K miles, then complain.
Mats for Less has the cargo tray but not the separate mat that fits on the back seat when it is folded down. I asked about it, and they said that it isn't made yet. But I do like the fit of the cargo tray. it is snug and solid.
A cold engine uses much more fuel than a warm one (an extra fuel injector turns on during warm up), so winter mileage is worse unless you have the car already nice and warm when you fill up.
Also very small amounts of idleing and city can really hurt mileage even if most of the trip is highway.
billbrox - We have a 2004 W8 6 speed manual with 3,000 miles on it. We just took it on a short trip - Bay Area to Carmel. We got a solid 24 mpg, and I set the cruise on 80 for a while and then 70 for most of the trip. Around town we do get 18, but in our commute to work we get 20-21. Where do you live, and what kind of traffic do you deal with?
I was thinking on getting 04 car new, but a used-car dealer(not VW dealership) is offering a 'certified' '03/15k for 6k less. Is it a good price? I thought only VW dealers can sell certified cars. Is it possible to get an extended warranty from VW on a pre-owned car. How do I verify if all the coil packs have been replaced on this car? Since which model year Passats started coming out of the factory with defect free coil packs?
I bought a 2004 automatic Passat GLS 4cyl. in mid-February and after the second week, during a weekday, my car failed to start after 3 attempts. By the fourth attempt, the car did start. By the third week, however, on a Monday, my car required 7 attempts to start the engine. I called Roadside assistance, the selling dealership, and the dealership closest to my house to schedule the earliest appointment. The earliest date I received was 2 weeks later. The next day, Tuesday, my car required 5 attempts to start the vehicle. I finally received the selling dealership's willingness to fix my car the following day. I dropped my car off at the dealership on Tues. night, the dealership/service dept. replaced my ignition switch on wed. afternoon, and I took my Passat home that Wed. evening. On Thurs. morning, my car wouldn't start after two attempts. I called Roadside assistance, a tow-truck arrived, and the tow-truck owner tried to start my car with no luck. The selling dealership replaced the power supply relay, rested and reset the computer - and I took the car home on Friday evening.
After this experience, I requested from the selling dealership, and then VW of America, a replacement vehicle or a full refund. This morning I received both dealerships' negative response to my request and their decision to adhere to the existing warranty. At this stage, I may have to wait until my car has problems for the third time before I can invoke Virginia's lemon law. In the meantime, I would appreciate any feedback on similar Passat experiences, and advice on next steps. Also, for those of you considering a new Passat '04: Beware, this is a nightmare on wheels. My car had less than 600 miles and couldn't start.
I just bought the GL wagon and love it. However, I have begun to notice some discomfort with foot positioning when using the accelerator pedal. There seems to be such a small space between the pedal and the middle of the car that I have to position my foot sideways. I can't seem to find a comfortable position for my foot! Has anyone had this problem or is it just me???
I noticed the same thing. What I think you are witnessing is the engineering response to the Audi 5000 "unintended acceleration" problem. The VW has a much larger offset between the "at rest" position of the brake pedal and the accelerator - in other words, the gas pedal is set much more deeply than the brake. So your foot is down there wedged between the brake pedal and the center console.
It took me a little while to get used to the setup and some shoes make it more noticeable (like with my work boots). I don't even notice it now (driving an '03 for over a year).
I have a 2003 Passat GLS wagon with the 1.8 liter engine. It was purchased in June 2003 and has just over 16,000 now (March 04). It has been a wonderful car. It drives well, the interior is very well put together, both in terms of ergonomics and fit-and-finish. The engine does suffer from some turbo-lag, but that is to be expected. I think that it is a terrific car.
However, I will not buy another, nor would I recommend one. When I bought the car I knew that it took an unconventional motor oil (5W30 I believe) and that oil changes would cost $50 or so. I was not aware that VW had a hidden the area with some sort of plastic cover that was difficult to take on and off. Oil changes now take twice as long and I have been charged extra at least once. A friend has told me that even minor things like replacing a burned out headlamp require a trip to the dealership. The very last straw came this morning when I finally stopped to get new wiper blades. The Passat uses special blades that look very cool and are extremely easy to change, but do not last very long or work too well. The pair that came with the car started to squeak after only a few months. Less than 9 months after buying the car the blades were completely spent. The cheepies that cost $10 for a set of two from Costco last longer and work better. Last night I could barely see thru my windshield in just a light rain. As far as I can tell, new blades are only available thru the dealer. I stopped today and was charged over $80 for a new set.
It is too bad. Until recently I had nothing but good things to say. I was even so happy with the car that I figure that my next car would be another Passat or an Audi. Not anymore.
I am a little confused by your post. You state that you bought "cheapies" at Costco and they worked better and lasted longer. Then you go on to say that new blades are only available from VW for $80 a pop. Please explain....
You have a lot of misinformation in your post. You owe it to yourself to become more informed about the maintenance on your Passat.
5-30 weight oil isn't "special" a lot of new cars call for it, including my Subaru and my X5. It is a standard wieght of oil that you can easily find at any auto parts store in a variety of brands. My VW dealer charges $25 or less for a Passat oil change.
The Passat - like a lot of current cars - has a plastic shield under the engine. It is easily removed, (I usually change my own oil) maybe a couple minutes at the most to remove and replace. My Subaru and X5 have plastic shields under them as does my Jetta wagon - all easily removed. These shields protect the undercarriage of the car and engine compartment from road debris and dirt - they are a great idea. They also make the underside of the car more aerodynamic thus helping with gas mileage - lots of cars have them.
Replacing bulbs doesn't require a trip to the dealership either, any repair shop or an owner with limited mechanical skills can easily replace all but the dashboard bulbs in a Passat - usually without any tools - all you need is your bare hands - very, very simple.
As for the wiper blades - go to any auto parts store for replacement blades which are no harder to replace than any other car. The dealer may have some sort of premuim blades they charge a premium for - you didn't have to go to the dealer for wiper blades.
I had a 2000 1.8t Passat that I put about 60,000 miles on without a single problem outside of a floor mat clip breaking. I'd recommend a Passat to anyone looking for a solid, dependable vehicle.
You wrote: "As for the wiper blades - go to any auto parts store for replacement blades which are no harder to replace than any other car. The dealer may have some sort of premuim blades they charge a premium for - you didn't have to go to the dealer for wiper blades."
I suspect thepoodle has the new aeroblade wipers (your 2000 model year did not have these). On the surface, it appears that the entire blade needs to be replaced (and I'm guessing that VW markets it that way). The entire blade is rather expensive.
However, a little work and after-market refills allows just the insert to be replaced...but the manual nor the dealer will tell you this. I replaced my inserts in about 15-20 minutes with $7.50 refills from Wallyworld.
I'm a new person to this message board, so a little about my background; I've worked with vw's since 1982, part of past as a tech, currently as a service advisor and am VW certified in my position. I've read thru some of posts and will attempt to answer a few questions that have been raised regarding VW's. My responses are based upon my experience with them in the dealership and I'll only be checking in once and while to respond to the messages posted on this board. So my responses will be limited in scope to the most general of topics. I also have been trained in other makes as well and currently do respond in other boards to questions on those makes, so my time is limited. To respond to the question of the wiper blades on the Passat, yes, they are of a new design (since 2003) and they are expensive, but easy to change. I was told that in high speed driving and rainy weather that they will put more force on the windshield and keep it clearer at fast driving speeds. I don't know if its true or not. The wipers are expensive, but cheaper when they first came out. The current price is about 60.00 or so a pair, and as far as I know are only available at a VW dealer. You can change the wiper arms to the previous design type used on the 2001 and earlier models and change the blades to match. The only problem then is the wiper blades don't have the same coverage area, but the difference is approx 1" width of wiper area. I have done several of the conversions and people generally seem to be happy with them, but don't expect VW to pay for the conversion.
The fuel economy on the W-8 is poor; in the area where the dealership is where I work many people on the v-6 report only 14-16mpg in urban driving, 20-24 highway. We've only seen a few w-8's, but one has to keep in mind that they require SYNETHIC OIL CHANGES AND HAVE EXTRA WEIGHT DUE TO THE 4 Motion drive train...so the few people who have they say fuel economy is poor; one person said she gets only 11 mpg in town....Dennis
1994 VW Passat wagon (diesel) - the fuses are all ok but none of the gauges work on the dashboard. If the rear license plate light still works and it is on the same fuse as the gauges, what else could be wrong?
My Passat wagon is a W8 with the 6 speed manual transmission. It has 5,700 miles on it now, and we get rather good mileage for a little road rocket. I drive it carefully but not cautiously. We regularly get 20 MPG on our commute of 18 miles each way, 11 of which is on city streets. I upshift at 2500 to 2700 RPM. Last week we drove from the SF Bay Area to San Diego and got 23.5 for the trip, including many hours in LA and SD commute traffic. Does the automatic reduce mileage? And at what RPM does the transmission shift if the driver doesn't jam on the accelerator? I'm pleased with the MPG we're getting. On the Grapevine on I-5, I roared past traffic and had plenty of accelerator travel left. I guess I'm wondering if some W8 owners inadvertently drive in a way that decreases mileage; and, could I drive more precisely to get better mileage. Barry
Hi, I test drove a passat wagon today and absolutely loved it! Up until today, we were ready to buy a Honda Odyessy (minivan w/ all options, dvd) but I think the passat is much cooler and what I pictured myself driving. However, I have a 2year old, with another baby on the way. My husband has an SUV, so we do have a bigger car, but I'm concerned the wagon won't be roomy enough for my two kids and I. I am a stay at home mom, always on the go. Anyone have any input? I'd appreciate it. Thanks,
Have you considered the new TDI Passat. 27 city 38 highway mpg. More torque than the v-6, and no turbo lag like the 4. You could go 600 miles on a tank of gas.
Unless your husband has a full sized SUV the Passat wagon probably has nearly as much room.
...to own a car bigger than a Passat if you have two kids?
My brother and I grew up in the back seat of everything from a Rambler wagon to a Toyota Corona sedan. I never felt deprived, or especially put upon, even as I grew to be a six-foot teenager.
I read constantly how the arrival of kids signals the necessity to buy a minivan or an SUV...don't know when that became necessary for either parents or kids.
I ride in the back seat of our friend's Passat sedan all the time, often for hours on end, and can't imagine why you'd need more room than is in this car.
Sorry for the rant....one of the columnists in AUTOMOBILE magazine just wrote a piece questioning why Americans think they have to "own a truck" to haul kids around. I have the same question. Can't imagine why a Passat wagon wouldn't be the ideal family car...
laney - go for it. I have a Passat wagon and you can easily fit 2 kids (and their stuff) in it! We have an Ody too but we got that cos we have a school car pool; otherwise the Passat is ideal!
My first experience with the new type wiper blades was on a 2000 S-class Mercedes-Benz. They were sleek and "spacy" looking. Unfortunately the Texas sun is extremely hard on them and their service life is somewhat short. While they are new, they work flawlessly, but after time passes they work wonderfully only in one direction. The opposite direction provides you with the most "unGodly" sound you have EVER heard (similar to fingernails over blackboard). The next sound you hear is your jaw hitting the floor when the cashier pronounces the price ($95 - EACH). The newest version on the '04 models has been know to separate and actually scratch the windshield into oblivion. What a thrill! Especially when you find no model year '04 windshields are in the country and need to be shipped from The Fatherland! My '02 Passat has 62K miles on it and I have changed the wiper blade INSERTS once. They are the old-style rubber strips I got at VW. If I get a newer Passat I will make every effort to get the old-style wiper arms that accept the old-style inserts ($4 each). The oil change is a hassle, the noise panel is real tuff. It stands up to debris AND my efforts to remove it. Besides that I have a lift at my disposal, but it is still an exercise. 5K miles oil changes with Mobil 1 are met with mixed emotions. Oh yeah, I LOVE THE CAR!!! I will buy another one!
Who would buy a 270hp W8 as an economy car? My '02 1.8T Tip Passat gets 30mpg at 70mph. I have never achieved more than 38.5mpg, but average around 33-34mpg during my morning 30mi commute. If I drive like a maniac I can get as as little as 16mpg 'tho. I averaged 29.5 last week over 360mi and during the light traffic mornings (6AM), lunch trips and heavy traffic trip home in the evenings (5:15PM). P. S. We are using the AC here in Texas already!
laney, I'm with the others here, the Passat should do just fine for a family of 4. Especially, if its your "small" car. We just got a new Passat sedan (moving up from a Jetta). Right after we got it, me, my wife, our 2 and 4 y.o., plus dog (beagle)tooke a long weekend trip to Grandma's. No problem with space. A little tigher than loading up our Explorer, but a heck of alot more fun to drive. Needless to say, a Passat wagon is now at the top of my list for when the Explorer's lease is up.
I just purchased a 2001 Passat wagon and love it! I have the GLS with leather. It is refined and well appointed. Everything I need, and nothing I dont. I also have two kids and two labradors. My husband has the SUV and I didnt like driving it. Im definately not the minivan type either. I looked at the Volvo wagon before choosing the Passat. I like the rear cover and the fact that the rear seats fold down. My previous car was a Honda Accord, and I loved it dearly. We just sold Rhonda the Honda to a friend, who is taking good care of her. My only complaint is the initial lag at go. But its easy to get over once your going.
I test drove a diesel Passat last night and was totally impressed. You really feel that low end torque from takeoff. It feels like it's got a big V8 under the hood - amazing. Even more impressive is how quiet it is, very refined driving experience.
Just so anyone contemplating buying a Passat Wagon here knows, as I wasn't told at the dealership, a replacement VALET KEY, costs $170 and requires a service call.
This was never mentioned to me during the long buying process that went on over 5 weeks and having been a long time Toyota owner it never occurred to me that anyone could make a $1.00 part into a $170.00 item complete with time wasted for service calls.
To top it off, I didn't lose the key, it simply wasn't in my key bag when I got in the car. In my excitment to actually drive my new car, I didn't notice until I got home from the dealer and called to ask about the key that I find out this lovely news and got to witness the whole pass the buck, god forbid that anyone actually make a customer happy if it costs a dollar game started.
BEWARE, if a key is $170.00 I hate to think what a real part might cost.
It's all quite surreal, I left the lot a happy person. Now I look in the driveway and see a $26,000 mistake. Sad to say, but it's back to bland and sensible Japanese cars for me from now on.
Sorry to hear about your "lost" Valet key. But, I am also a little confused. IF the key was never given to you upon delivery of the car, the VW dealer should provide you with a valet key. Just tell them that the key was never given to you. They come standard with almost all cars.....Japanese, German and American!! I have owned more than 10 cars in my lifetime and never once used a valet key. Is it the cost of the key that really bothers you or do you really use the valet key on a regular basis? The reason why the keys are so expensive is that they have a computer chip within the key itself. It is an antitheft device that most cars come with nowadays.
I hope you are able to enjoy your beautiful new Passat and not let one simple key ruin your experience. I hate to see what may happen if you actually have to bring your car to the dealer for a repair or recall.
If you truely did not get a valet key from the dealer, try to give VWoA Customer Care a call and advise them of your displeasure/situation. Also, contact the Owner or President of the dealer and tell them your story. Tell them you were planning on bringing your car to them for your scheduled services, but will not if they can't remedy this situation. They will most likely lose allot of $$ on service if you go elsewhere.
Good luck and try to enjoy your new ride!!!!
I see your from Atlanta....me too. What dealer did you purchase from? How was your experience (other than the key issue)?
Another reason (other than greed and imbedded chips) that these keys are expensive is that they have to be cut by a laser.
Moreover, on a VW wagon, what function does a valet key serve? On my 2000 Passat wagon the rear hatch can be opened by the remote lock button on the driver's door. I've had 2003/4 Passat and Jetta loaner sedans that had a key slot to disable the remote unlocking feature, but my 2000 wagon does not.
Hmmmm, your dealer must handle the final sales transaction differently than ours did. When we went to pick up the car, we did all the paperwork signatures and then, with some fanfare, our salesperson handed us the two remote keys and the valet key (in fact, I think he may have even mentioned that they were expensive to replace, don't lose 'em). It was kinda like a builder handing over the keys to a new house.
The reason I believe the keys are expensive is the immobilizer anti-theft system. I'd guess that's the same reason for the need for a service visit. I'm not so sure that the Japanese keys aren't in the same price range, if they have an immobilizer theft system, too. I'd suggest that you call around to some other VW dealers to see if they can beat the price.
Frankly, if it were me, I'd look at the car and think, "Gee, I bought a beautiful, safe, roomy car, but my dealer sucks." And then I'd contemplate meeting my service needs elsewhere, unless your dealer sees the light.
And really, all the valet key does is "protect" anything in the glovebox. It's not like the "wayback" luggage area is protected, since anyone can simply get into the backseat and reach into the cargo area. I wouldn't worry about replacing it, if were going to cost me anything.
I have replaced my 1999 passat 1,8t wagon in November 2003 by a brand new 2004 passat 1,8t wagon.
I loved my 1999 despite they had to change front suspension parts 13 times in the last 4 years.
With my 2004, I have unpleasant engine vibration from 60km/h up to 150 km/h since the car is new. It does create a 100-200hz vibration in the steering weel, the door, floor, gas pedal, clutch pedal as well as in the shifter.
Highway traveling is very anoying.
- Tires got ballanced 5 times by 3 differents garage.
- VW dealer has replaced 3 rims.
- They then suggested me to replace the Continental tires by Michelin MXV4 at my own expense (750.00 Can$). - I did it.
- VW dealer have then tried to unmount / remount the front sub-frame.
I have reached 17,000km and 7 months and the dealer has kind of gived up ! VW Canada does not shown much interest to solve the problem.
Recent test drive of others 2004 passat (sedan and wagon) having 5,000km and more have demontrated signs of the same problem.
I can not live with such a problem !
Legal procedure via canadian PAVAC or consumer protection group is slow and very time consuming .
As a responsible father, my immediate and likely only satifaction is to inform as much as possible other car seekers/buyers not to fall in the same trap.
Before I got my 2003 GLS Wagon, I had a 2000 Taurus wagon. I only ever got one key when I bought the car used, and I definitely wanted a second.
The dealership I purchased from agreed to reimburse me for the cost of the second key. It cost $120 to cut and program. So it's not just VW that has these expensive keys.
Not that it matters, but I do believe that Ford provided instructions for how you could program the key on your own if you were able to find one and get it cut (you can get blanks on e-bay). The Ford keys aren't laser cut, so if you can get a programmable blank, you can get it cut anywhere, and you can program it yourself if you like.
We purchased a new '04 Passat 4motion wagon in early Feb '04. Within 2000 miles we started experiencing a loud "bang" during hard braking. I mean a LOUD and disconcerting bang & shudder; almost like the sensation that you were rear-ended. Local dealer says they have never heard of the problem before?? They want us to bring it in when it happens again to see if they can replicate it. The problem is intermittent (naturally) so dealer never finds anything wrong and the diagnostics show everything A-ok. HELP! Is there a fix?
I would guess something in the suspension is binding. I have a minivan that makes a bang occasionally from the back, though it is not related to braking. Braking might take enough stress off of the spring that it tries to reseat itself if it is loose.
You could also look at the motor mounts. If a mount was loose the engine might move enough to hit something. Going from acceleration to braking suddenly takes pressure off of the drivetrain, and can make the engine shudder. Usually the mounts contorol this.
Sticking brake calipers that release suddenly could also be something to look at.
RE: "having been a long time Toyota owner it never occurred to me that anyone could make a $1.00 part into a $170.00 item complete with time wasted for service calls."
One item of comparison is that after 10 years your VW will still need a key to start it, unlike a Toyota where any screw-driver will start the car. 10-year old Toyotas are near the top of the stolen car list because the ignition locks are garbage and wear out quickly.
VWs also have higher quality steel than Japanese cars. That's why you see so many more old VWs on the road than Hondas or Toyotas.
A few years back all the VW cars were made with virgin steel. I'm not sure if they still do that. My newest VW (we have 3) is almost 6 years old ... its approaching the 1/2 way point on the corrosion warranty. You'll never see a Japanese (or Korean) vehicle with a 12-year rust warantee ... not even Lexus.
My father-in-law has a '93 Camry with >250,000 kms on it. It runs like new. Great car. But he recently spent $3500 to have it repainted and the rust spots fixed. And it's been garaged and babied since he bought it new. My '92 VW truck has lived outdoors all its life, travelled from Canada to Mexico, and seen more off-road time than most 4x4s, and it isn't even rusting where there are 10-year old stone chips. It was a work truck for an electrical contracting business working on multi-acre vacation properties that usually had the power installed before the driveway! These vehicles are made of high quality steel and fully galvanized before painting.
Mercedes and VW cars simply last longer than Japanese cars, regardless of price. If you own a vehicle for a long time (like I do) then German cars are a better buy, even if they cost more initially and to maintain. But if you keep your car less than 5 years, then maybe the Japanese cars are better, because their resale often drops little for 5-6 years, then the price drops like a rock.
But I'd still be shocked at $170 for a key. On my wife's last Passat, we replaced the rear rotors/hubs and bearings at over 200,000 kms on the car, and the parts cost less than CDN$100- for both sides. I doubt if you could replace the rear disc brakes on most Japanese or American cars for that price.
Buyer's beware!!! I too absolutely LOVE my VW Passat (had a Jetta before), but due to the maintenance issues I've encountered with the Passat, I will not buy another VW.
As others have posted, what should be a simple and inexpensive item to replace costs multiple times more than I believe necessary. For example, I cannot go to just any oil change location, I have to go to the dealership because of the special tool needed to get into the engine compartment and remove the oil filter. I have to get engine coolant from the dealership. I have cannot replace just a bulb in the tail light area nor the lens (unfortunate contact with a garbage can left in the alleyway by sanitation department , but have to replace the ENTIRE HOUSING. Car has been towed in three times due to engine malfunction (or some component thereof), and the headlights have gone out three times due to some electrical issue (it always happens when I leave my car parked at the airport for over three nights . Granted, it doesn't help that the closest dealership is over 27 miles away. I never had these types of "onesy, twosy" problems with my Jetta VR6...I sure do miss it...
Comments
Auto lock at 8 mph, or not.
Unlock with key removal, or not.
Alarm sounds with keyfob lock, or not.
Alarm sounds with keyfob unlock, or not.
Lights flash with keyfob lock, or not.
Lights flash with keyfob unlock, or not.
The hatch unlocking with all doors IS NOT an option. You must use either the keyfob, the driver door-mounted switch, or the actual (hidden) key slot in the hatch itself.
I would recommend also getting the rear seat add-on tray, which they didn't have when I ordered.
Enjoy your new wagon; it sounds like a beautiful color combination.
- brubru
We bought a new Passat 4Mo wagon a year ago. Until then an '89 Subaru DL 4WD wagon had been our only vehicle. I bought that new as well. I shopped the Outback VDC at the same time along with the Passat because of our good experience with our Subaru wagon (194,000 miles strong). However, after test driving both for extended periods and going through a negative sales experience with the Subaru dealer I happily opted for the Passat.
Other than occasionally wishing for a little more ground clearance when we're off the beaten path I have no regrets thus far.
- The engine is not yet broken in - give it time.
- Oil refiners use winter fuel additives to reduce emissions which does the same to fuel mileage.
- It's the EPA that determines the mpg on the sticker based on a computer simulated test loop - weather, wind, et al are not figured in.
- Your driving style affects mpg as does traffic conditions.
Give it some time. If it still isn't getting closer to the EPA estimates at around 10K miles, then complain.
Good Luck.
Billbrox
A cold engine uses much more fuel than a warm one (an extra fuel injector turns on during warm up), so winter mileage is worse unless you have the car already nice and warm when you fill up.
Also very small amounts of idleing and city can really hurt mileage even if most of the trip is highway.
Barry Hottle
I thought only VW dealers can sell certified cars. Is it possible to get an extended warranty from VW on a pre-owned car. How do I verify if all the coil packs have been replaced on this car? Since which model year Passats started coming out of the factory with defect free coil packs?
After this experience, I requested from the selling dealership, and then VW of America, a replacement vehicle or a full refund. This morning I received both dealerships' negative response to my request and their decision to adhere to the existing warranty. At this stage, I may have to wait until my car has problems for the third time before I can invoke Virginia's lemon law. In the meantime, I would appreciate any feedback on similar Passat experiences, and advice on next steps. Also, for those of you considering a new Passat '04: Beware, this is a nightmare on wheels. My car had less than 600 miles and couldn't start.
It took me a little while to get used to the setup and some shoes make it more noticeable (like with my work boots). I don't even notice it now (driving an '03 for over a year).
However, I will not buy another, nor would I recommend one. When I bought the car I knew that it took an unconventional motor oil (5W30 I believe) and that oil changes would cost $50 or so. I was not aware that VW had a hidden the area with some sort of plastic cover that was difficult to take on and off. Oil changes now take twice as long and I have been charged extra at least once. A friend has told me that even minor things like replacing a burned out headlamp require a trip to the dealership. The very last straw came this morning when I finally stopped to get new wiper blades. The Passat uses special blades that look very cool and are extremely easy to change, but do not last very long or work too well. The pair that came with the car started to squeak after only a few months. Less than 9 months after buying the car the blades were completely spent. The cheepies that cost $10 for a set of two from Costco last longer and work better. Last night I could barely see thru my windshield in just a light rain. As far as I can tell, new blades are only available thru the dealer. I stopped today and was charged over $80 for a new set.
It is too bad. Until recently I had nothing but good things to say. I was even so happy with the car that I figure that my next car would be another Passat or an Audi. Not anymore.
5-30 weight oil isn't "special" a lot of new cars call for it, including my Subaru and my X5. It is a standard wieght of oil that you can easily find at any auto parts store in a variety of brands. My VW dealer charges $25 or less for a Passat oil change.
The Passat - like a lot of current cars - has a plastic shield under the engine. It is easily removed, (I usually change my own oil) maybe a couple minutes at the most to remove and replace. My Subaru and X5 have plastic shields under them as does my Jetta wagon - all easily removed. These shields protect the undercarriage of the car and engine compartment from road debris and dirt - they are a great idea. They also make the underside of the car more aerodynamic thus helping with gas mileage - lots of cars have them.
Replacing bulbs doesn't require a trip to the dealership either, any repair shop or an owner with limited mechanical skills can easily replace all but the dashboard bulbs in a Passat - usually without any tools - all you need is your bare hands - very, very simple.
As for the wiper blades - go to any auto parts store for replacement blades which are no harder to replace than any other car. The dealer may have some sort of premuim blades they charge a premium for - you didn't have to go to the dealer for wiper blades.
I had a 2000 1.8t Passat that I put about 60,000 miles on without a single problem outside of a floor mat clip breaking. I'd recommend a Passat to anyone looking for a solid, dependable vehicle.
"As for the wiper blades - go to any auto parts store for replacement blades which are no harder to replace than any other car. The dealer may have some sort of premuim blades they charge a premium for - you didn't have to go to the dealer for wiper blades."
I suspect thepoodle has the new aeroblade wipers (your 2000 model year did not have these). On the surface, it appears that the entire blade needs to be replaced (and I'm guessing that VW markets it that way). The entire blade is rather expensive.
However, a little work and after-market refills allows just the insert to be replaced...but the manual nor the dealer will tell you this. I replaced my inserts in about 15-20 minutes with $7.50 refills from Wallyworld.
To respond to the question of the wiper blades on the Passat, yes, they are of a new design (since 2003) and they are expensive, but easy to change. I was told that in high speed driving and rainy weather that they will put more force on the windshield and keep it clearer at fast driving speeds. I don't know if its true or not. The wipers are expensive, but cheaper when they first came out. The current price is about 60.00 or so a pair, and as far as I know are only available at a VW dealer. You can change the wiper arms to the previous design type used on the 2001 and earlier models and change the blades to match. The only problem then is the wiper blades don't have the same coverage area, but the difference is approx 1" width of wiper area. I have done several of the conversions and people generally seem to be happy with them, but don't expect VW to pay for the conversion.
The fuel economy on the W-8 is poor; in the area where the dealership is where I work many people on the v-6 report only 14-16mpg in urban driving, 20-24 highway. We've only seen a few w-8's, but one has to keep in mind that they require SYNETHIC OIL CHANGES AND HAVE EXTRA WEIGHT DUE TO THE 4 Motion drive train...so the few people who have they say fuel economy is poor; one person said she gets only 11 mpg in town....Dennis
I test drove a passat wagon today and absolutely loved it! Up until today, we were ready to buy a Honda Odyessy (minivan w/ all options, dvd) but I think the passat is much cooler and what I pictured myself driving. However, I have a 2year old, with another baby on the way. My husband has an SUV, so we do have a bigger car, but I'm concerned the wagon won't be roomy enough for my two kids and I. I am a stay at home mom, always on the go. Anyone have any input? I'd appreciate it. Thanks,
Have you considered the new TDI Passat. 27 city 38 highway mpg. More torque than the v-6, and no turbo lag like the 4. You could go 600 miles on a tank of gas.
Unless your husband has a full sized SUV the Passat wagon probably has nearly as much room.
My brother and I grew up in the back seat of everything from a Rambler wagon to a Toyota Corona sedan. I never felt deprived, or especially put upon, even as I grew to be a six-foot teenager.
I read constantly how the arrival of kids signals the necessity to buy a minivan or an SUV...don't know when that became necessary for either parents or kids.
I ride in the back seat of our friend's Passat sedan all the time, often for hours on end, and can't imagine why you'd need more room than is in this car.
Sorry for the rant....one of the columnists in AUTOMOBILE magazine just wrote a piece questioning why Americans think they have to "own a truck" to haul kids around. I have the same question. Can't imagine why a Passat wagon wouldn't be the ideal family car...
S-class Mercedes-Benz. They were sleek and "spacy" looking. Unfortunately the Texas sun is extremely hard on them and their service life is somewhat short. While they are new, they work flawlessly, but after time passes they work wonderfully only in one direction. The opposite direction provides you with the most "unGodly" sound you have EVER heard (similar to fingernails over blackboard). The next sound you hear is your jaw hitting the floor when the cashier pronounces the price ($95 - EACH). The newest version on the '04 models has been know to separate and actually scratch the windshield into oblivion. What a thrill! Especially when you find no model year '04 windshields are in the country and need to be shipped from The Fatherland! My '02 Passat has 62K miles on it and I have changed the wiper blade INSERTS once. They are the old-style rubber strips I got at VW. If I get a newer Passat I will make every effort to get the old-style wiper arms that accept the old-style inserts ($4 each). The oil change is a hassle, the noise panel is real tuff. It stands up to debris AND my efforts to remove it. Besides that I have a lift at my disposal, but it is still an exercise. 5K miles oil changes with Mobil 1 are met with mixed emotions. Oh yeah, I LOVE THE CAR!!! I will buy another one!
My '02 1.8T Tip Passat gets 30mpg at 70mph. I have never achieved more than 38.5mpg, but average around 33-34mpg during my morning 30mi commute. If I drive like a maniac I can get as as little as 16mpg 'tho. I averaged 29.5 last week over 360mi and during the light traffic mornings (6AM), lunch trips and heavy traffic trip home in the evenings (5:15PM). P. S. We are using the AC here in Texas already!
I'm with the others here, the Passat should do just fine for a family of 4. Especially, if its your "small" car. We just got a new Passat sedan (moving up from a Jetta). Right after we got it, me, my wife, our 2 and 4 y.o., plus dog (beagle)tooke a long weekend trip to Grandma's. No problem with space. A little tigher than loading up our Explorer, but a heck of alot more fun to drive. Needless to say, a Passat wagon is now at the top of my list for when the Explorer's lease is up.
My only complaint is the initial lag at go. But its easy to get over once your going.
Have you had this problem.
I traded my 2001.5 1.8T 5-Speed in for the new one. I raved about the old wagon. It was rock solid and reliable.
Once people find out that the TDIs are available, you won't be able to get one.
Hurry Hurry
This was never mentioned to me during the long buying process that went on over 5 weeks and having been a long time Toyota owner it never occurred to me that anyone could make a $1.00 part into a $170.00 item complete with time wasted for service calls.
To top it off, I didn't lose the key, it simply wasn't in my key bag when I got in the car. In my excitment to actually drive my new car, I didn't notice until I got home from the dealer and called to ask about the key that I find out this lovely news and got to witness the whole pass the buck, god forbid that anyone actually make a customer happy if it costs a dollar game started.
BEWARE, if a key is $170.00 I hate to think what a real part might cost.
It's all quite surreal, I left the lot a happy person. Now I look in the driveway and see a $26,000 mistake. Sad to say, but it's back to bland and sensible Japanese cars for me from now on.
I hope you are able to enjoy your beautiful new Passat and not let one simple key ruin your experience. I hate to see what may happen if you actually have to bring your car to the dealer for a repair or recall.
If you truely did not get a valet key from the dealer, try to give VWoA Customer Care a call and advise them of your displeasure/situation. Also, contact the Owner or President of the dealer and tell them your story. Tell them you were planning on bringing your car to them for your scheduled services, but will not if they can't remedy this situation. They will most likely lose allot of $$ on service if you go elsewhere.
Good luck and try to enjoy your new ride!!!!
I see your from Atlanta....me too. What dealer did you purchase from? How was your experience (other than the key issue)?
Moreover, on a VW wagon, what function does a valet key serve? On my 2000 Passat wagon the rear hatch can be opened by the remote lock button on the driver's door. I've had 2003/4 Passat and Jetta loaner sedans that had a key slot to disable the remote unlocking feature, but my 2000 wagon does not.
Poorly thought-out design in my opinion.
The reason I believe the keys are expensive is the immobilizer anti-theft system. I'd guess that's the same reason for the need for a service visit. I'm not so sure that the Japanese keys aren't in the same price range, if they have an immobilizer theft system, too. I'd suggest that you call around to some other VW dealers to see if they can beat the price.
Frankly, if it were me, I'd look at the car and think, "Gee, I bought a beautiful, safe, roomy car, but my dealer sucks." And then I'd contemplate meeting my service needs elsewhere, unless your dealer sees the light.
And really, all the valet key does is "protect" anything in the glovebox. It's not like the "wayback" luggage area is protected, since anyone can simply get into the backseat and reach into the cargo area. I wouldn't worry about replacing it, if were going to cost me anything.
2004 passat 1,8t wagon.
I loved my 1999 despite they had to change front suspension parts 13 times in the last 4 years.
With my 2004, I have unpleasant engine vibration from 60km/h up to 150 km/h since the car is new.
It does create a 100-200hz vibration in the steering weel, the door, floor,
gas pedal, clutch pedal as well as in the shifter.
Highway traveling is very anoying.
- Tires got ballanced 5 times by 3 differents garage.
- VW dealer has replaced 3 rims.
- They then suggested me to replace the Continental tires by Michelin MXV4
at my own expense (750.00 Can$).
- I did it.
- VW dealer have then tried to unmount / remount the front sub-frame.
I have reached 17,000km and 7 months and the dealer has kind of gived up !
VW Canada does not shown much interest to solve the problem.
Recent test drive of others 2004 passat (sedan and wagon) having 5,000km and
more have demontrated signs of the same problem.
I can not live with such a problem !
Legal procedure via canadian PAVAC or consumer protection group is slow and very time
consuming .
As a responsible father, my immediate and likely only satifaction is to inform as much as possible other car seekers/buyers not to fall in the same
trap.
The dealership I purchased from agreed to reimburse me for the cost of the second key. It cost $120 to cut and program. So it's not just VW that has these expensive keys.
Not that it matters, but I do believe that Ford provided instructions for how you could program the key on your own if you were able to find one and get it cut (you can get blanks on e-bay). The Ford keys aren't laser cut, so if you can get a programmable blank, you can get it cut anywhere, and you can program it yourself if you like.
That's my $.02 worth.
You could also look at the motor mounts. If a mount was loose the engine might move enough to hit something. Going from acceleration to braking suddenly takes pressure off of the drivetrain, and can make the engine shudder. Usually the mounts contorol this.
Sticking brake calipers that release suddenly could also be something to look at.
One item of comparison is that after 10 years your VW will still need a key to start it, unlike a Toyota where any screw-driver will start the car. 10-year old Toyotas are near the top of the stolen car list because the ignition locks are garbage and wear out quickly.
VWs also have higher quality steel than Japanese cars. That's why you see so many more old VWs on the road than Hondas or Toyotas.
A few years back all the VW cars were made with virgin steel. I'm not sure if they still do that. My newest VW (we have 3) is almost 6 years old ... its approaching the 1/2 way point on the corrosion warranty. You'll never see a Japanese (or Korean) vehicle with a 12-year rust warantee ... not even Lexus.
My father-in-law has a '93 Camry with >250,000 kms on it. It runs like new. Great car. But he recently spent $3500 to have it repainted and the rust spots fixed. And it's been garaged and babied since he bought it new. My '92 VW truck has lived outdoors all its life, travelled from Canada to Mexico, and seen more off-road time than most 4x4s, and it isn't even rusting where there are 10-year old stone chips. It was a work truck for an electrical contracting business working on multi-acre vacation properties that usually had the power installed before the driveway!
These vehicles are made of high quality steel and fully galvanized before painting.
Mercedes and VW cars simply last longer than Japanese cars, regardless of price. If you own a vehicle for a long time (like I do) then German cars are a better buy, even if they cost more initially and to maintain. But if you keep your car less than 5 years, then maybe the Japanese cars are better, because their resale often drops little for 5-6 years, then the price drops like a rock.
But I'd still be shocked at $170 for a key. On my wife's last Passat, we replaced the rear rotors/hubs and bearings at over 200,000 kms on the car, and the parts cost less than CDN$100- for both sides.
I doubt if you could replace the rear disc brakes on most Japanese or American cars for that price.
Did this start immediately, or after a bit?
Its something we definitely want to check when our TDI wagon comes in!
As others have posted, what should be a simple and inexpensive item to replace costs multiple times more than I believe necessary. For example, I cannot go to just any oil change location, I have to go to the dealership because of the special tool needed to get into the engine compartment and remove the oil filter. I have to get engine coolant from the dealership. I have cannot replace just a bulb in the tail light area nor the lens (unfortunate contact with a garbage can left in the alleyway by sanitation department