I recently met with a dealer regarding the Passat extended warranty. He informed me that since the car has a warranty for five years, it is better for me to wait until 90 days before the expiration date to get the extended warranty. I am afraid that, since I will be buying instead of leasing that five years from now, that VW might tell me that it is no longer available (unless the car is new). Has anyone done this in the past? If so, could you tell me your experiences with this subject? Thanks, Maruska
Why do you keep saying five years? Since when is the basic warranty 5 years long? Only the powertrain is 5 years and there is so much more that can go wrong besides the powertrain. You can buy it before the factory warranty expires. However, anything could happen in 4 years. The warranty company could be out of business in 4 years or not be taking new customers or you might decide to get rid of the car at or before 4 years and the extended warranty will not matter then. If the car turns out to be a lemon, why would you want to keep fixing it after 4 years, extended warranty or not? If it is troublesome, dump it. Anyway, it is odd that the salesperson does not want the commission money now. He is not going to get anything if you buy the warranty in 4 years from now.
I, personally, like the smell of leather. I would recommend going to the dealer, finding a car that has leather and see what you think. I have had many VW loaners that had leather and it smells like your typical....leather!! The leatherette has no scent.
I would go to the VW dealer and sit in Passats with both leather and leatherette. Mine just has this distinct and strong off-gassing smell. It *could* be the leather or it could be the glues or it could be this...or it could be that... meaning I'm just assuming its the leather in my Passat.
I take it in to get serviced soon and I'm going to ask my VW dealer at that time. I also plan to take it to get detailed and will get the leather treatment done. Hopefully that will mask the smell.
No one else complains of it though, infact my husband says it smells fine to him and doesn't see (smell ) the big deal!
But really, don't let my smelly car be even a small factor against getting a Passat! I LOVE the car inside and out.. except for it's BO *grin*
Carrie ~2003 Passat GLS 1.8T AT Candy White/Beige Leather interior
I can understand about #2 color choices. I really wanted the Blue Silver (I drool everytime I see a Passat sedan or wagon in that color!) but at the time there were none on the East Coast that my dealer could track down. I even did my own calling and he was right. Popular color!
So the other choices were the darker grey and white and I went with the Candy White with Beige interior. It took a LONG time for me to like the white but now its grown on me!
Really appreciated your explanation of the noise that is created by the ABS braking system when I first drive the Passat each morning. The dealer was less than forthcoming when I raised the question to their service group. Was wondering if you also had information regarding the noise I hear from the Turbo(1.8) when it first fires up in the morning - fan maybe - that only lasts for a few moments but is quite obvious. I'm trying to understand the mechanics of what is taking place - not a problem with performance at all. Still getting over the fact that I can't work on these cars the way I used to - which in many ways is probably a good thing. Thanks for the information
The brake sound was "easy" -- not so sure about this one. But, what the heck, I'll give it a go.
I am speculating that what you might be hearing is the lubrication "mechanics" rushing to make certain the turbo is lubed and ready for those 6 figure RPM's at which they are famous for spinning.
Generally, the turbo engines have lots more lubrication complexities than the non turbo engines. For example, the underside of the pistons receive a cooling spray of oil, non turbo versions do not.
This is the only thing that springs to my mind that could be the sound you hear -- my wife has a 225HP TT (2003) 1.8T . . . temporary oil starvation and the replensihment of the oil for the benefit of the turbos is my story and I'm stickin' to it.
This time, however, I am NOT positive that this is the sound you are hearing -- like I said the ABS sound was a piece of pie (easy as cake!)
I had posted this in another VW forum, but did not find much reponse and hence posting here. (Sorry, for the double posting). I am considering buying a VW, and I have a few questions regarding the driver's option of financing -
1. The VW website claims that it is the best of both worlds (lease and buying). If so, what's the catch? I am sure there is something that is obvious, but I am not seeing, and is not explained on the website?
2. The web site says it is based on a "finance contract". Is that contract any different from the lease contract?
3. Do you get tied to the contract as you would in a lease? i.e you cannot break a lease once signed without paying huge fees. Or, in this case you are free to sell the car if you want to in the middle of the contract?
4. Has any one here tried that option? What are your thoughts? Would you recommend it to others?
This reminds me of an open ended lease. As long as you understand the possible up and downsides of such a lease, it is a very good way to lower your payments and share the depreciation risk with the financing arm of VW.
The closed ended lease is my personal preference, but I like to keep my cars less than 50,000 miles. As I get older, I keep wondering if I will maintain this attitude -- at this point, a new car every 30 months is more important to me.
I am considering buying a Passat and went to a dealer today, who told me that the $2,000 cash to dealer incentive was no longer in effect, and that info. on the internet to the contrary was inaccurate. The VW web site doesn't mention this cash incentive. Does anybody know if this incentive is still in effect? Thanks.
I just looked into edmunds.com incentives and rebates for the 2004 Passats and it shows that the deal for the $2000 was extended to 8/31/04. I think it was just changed because this week I looked and it was to expire on 8/2/04 (I am on the market for a Passat, which I will be "finally" getting this coming week). I would recommend that you check with other dealers as sometimes they are not notified right away that it has been extended. Good luck and enjoy your car when you get it!
gear searching with clunk around 15mph by donein05 Jul 14, 2004 (10:20 am) We've had our V6 AT 4Motion wagon for 2 weeks now with a few trips under our belt (1700 miles). On 2 occasions while coasting in traffic at about 10-15mph, after going to accelerate there is a pause (as this AT seems to do) as it hunts for whether I want 1st or 2nd, and when it chooses I get a truly horrible clunk after which both times my wife asks if we've been rear-ended (just to illustrate). Also, this is with light throttle...i can only imagine if i was really in a hurry.
anybody else experience this, please point to a previous post if i missed it. thanks
This is a known flaw. I had mine fixed 5 weeks ago. Call you dealer. There's lots of talk about this on the vwvortex web site.
That's it! Those of us in the trade sometimes refer to it as the Hoover - since it can sound like a vaccum cleaner. It is an electric motor that pumps air into the exhaust system ahead of the catalytic converter. This is an effort to heat up the CAT so that it can start doing its' job. Cold engines require a lot of fuel to keep running, even in Southern California. Normally the Hoover will shut off once coolant temp reaches 40'C (104'F).
I didn't buy the service contract - not an extended warranty - there is no such thing, when I bought my '02 Passat. At that time VW didn't offer a policy. There were the online sources or GE that the dealer did offer. I wanted to shop around and see about coverages and prices. One place told me I didn't need to buy it right away so I waited until about 20K mi. Much to my surprise the length of coverage and miles changed dramatically. I drive a lot - 67K mi. in 36 mos. At 20K mi. I could only buy a shorter term/shorter mileage policy than if I had bought it at the "in-service date." At HIGHER COST too! There are plenty of clerks/salesmen who don't know/care what they are doing. So WATCH OUT!!! Just because they work at a dealer, doesn't mean they know anything. Most are just clock-watching salaried slackers worried about the weekends' leisure activities. Anyway, enough ranting. The only thing bad that has happened since the warranty expired concerns a boot on the axle shaft. It ruptured and leaked gooey grease all over the LF. My 60K mi. drivetrain warranty didn't cover the boot. An axle shaft or axle joint yes, but not a rubber boot. I did it at work and it was a mess. 53K mi; but my co-worker said his broke at 8K mi. So, it could have been different. The regular bumper-to-bumper warranty would have covered it then. Nothing other than an occasional light bulb to report as of this date.
Heads up, gang! I received a notice in the mail yesterday from VWoA that states the following:
1) Outlines an extension of the warranty to cover oil sludging to unlimited miles / 8 years for the 1.8T engine only.
2) Specifies that engine oil should meet VW Spec 502.00. A list of oils that meet 502.00 was included - it only lists synthetic oil in either 5w-40, 0w-40 and 5w-30 multigrades. To repeat, there are no dino oils on the list. Specifically mentioned were: Synpower 5w-30 and 5w-40, Mobil 1 0w-40 only, Castrol Syntec 5w-40 and a handful of others from Pennzoil, Kendall, Havoline and Quaker State. Notably in their absence was Amsoil, Royal Purple, and Redline.
3) Specifies a 5,000 mile / six month change interval. In certain cases (short trips, stop & go driving, and extended below-freezing temps) could require more frequent changes.
Based on what I've read on other forums, I'd say that if I noticed any of the following, I'd start to investigate:
1) Is the engine taking less oil to fill now than when it was new? In other words, will 3.5 quarts of oil when show on the dipstick as filled to the top, whereas as it used to be closer to 4 quarts? In worst case scenarios, the oil pan is getting so gunked up that the sludge is actually displacing the oil in the pan.
2) Any noticeable "peanut butter" like substance visible through the oil filler cap?
3) Any flickering of the oil light on the instrument cluster? What seems to be happening is that the sludge actually impairs the ability of the oil pump to circulate oil, hence the light.
Again, from what I've read, it appears related to use of dino oil (versus synth) and overly long oil change intervals.
I'd hazard a guess that adding short trips (which doesn't allow moisture to evaporate out of the oil) and poor (or no) turbo cooldown procedure contributes to the problem. Add in a smallish sump of 3.9 US quarts doesn't help (notice that the 2004 Passats come with a larger oil filter that increases the overall oil capacity).
The 1.8t still recommends 5K oil change intervals as far as I know. The VW website does not yet have the 2004 models on the maintenance section, so it may of changed.
Yes. I saw the larger filter last week when I was picking up some supplies at my dealer. It's actually an older filter number (I've seen some references that it was orginally spec'd for a diesel); it's substantially larger in diameter and length. I'm going to switch over to this one next oil change in the fall. I view any increase in oil capacity for the 1.8T as a good thing.
I have had my Passat for almost 2 months and have driven almost 2500 miles and thought I would share my experience so far:
I bought my Passat on June 26th and love it.
The only problem/issue I have had with my Passat was a rattle in the dash. I brought it into the dealer to have them look into the noise and got the car back with the rattle still there. Not only was the rattle still loud, but they apparently backed my car into a pole while in their possession. They had my car for the better part of a week but when I got it back, the bumper looked great and the dash rattle was gone. The rattle was caused by a clip in the dash that was either loose or broken. My interior is as quiet as ever now.
Pros: The fit and finish is superior to any car I have ever driven. Ride quality is great and it is very comfortable on the highway while cruising at high speeds. Features such as the the trip computer, MPG calculations, miles to empty, etc..... are very nice. The style of the Passat will be a classic for many many years to come. Leatherette interior looks just like leather and seems very durable.
AC works great!!
Cons: TURBO LAG!!! I love my Passat, but the lag takes getting used to. It almost seems like you can't accelerate smoothly, you depress the gas pedal and either you sit there waiting for the turbo to spool or you are rocketing into the car in front of you. It is manageable, but it would be nice if the lag is subdued slightly.
The handling is nice but the suspension could be a little more firm
My gas mileage seems to be getting better with time. With a 60/40 split between highway/city, I recently averaged almost 25 MPG.
if I had to do it again I would buy another Passat. I look forward to reading and seeing the new '06 Passat.
Having had three VW/Audi products with the 1.8t engine (all manual transmissions) and three other Audi turbo charged cars, also with manual transmissions (one, currently, a 2003 allroad with the 2.7T engine) and four recent vintage Audis with the "5 speed automatics" (Tiptronics), I can tell you that my experience plus reading about the DBW (drive by wire) and "tip-lag" have convinced me that the issues you relate are NOT due to turbo-lag but due to a combination of the DBW + Tip issues.
If you read here and over on the Audi Town hall (A4's) you will find that the Tip versions of these recent VW/Audi products are regularly and frequently criticized for this "hesitant" behavior.
In fact, after four in a row, I literally bought the "only" remaining full-sized Audi I could get with a stick shift (I had only the A6 2.7T and the allroad 2.7T available in October 2002, when I bought my 2003 model year cars, with stick shifts).
Without any glee or pleasure in saying so, "what you have is normal, widely reported, derided and disliked." You almost certainly had to know the reputation of this transmission prior to purchase.
But, let's for a moment assume that, like most of us, you cannot be 100% diligent in "finding the dirt" about everything. What do yo do now?
Write a letter. Seriously, write a letter to VW. It will not immediately help your situation, probably, but it will help eventually all of us who want to continue buying VW and Audi products but know that manual transmissions, no matter how desirable and superior to most autos is going the way of the do-do bird.
Investigate the "tip chip" upgrade (here and all over the WWW). This will NOT be free to you and don't expect VW to pay for it, not gonna happen. However, the tip chip will mitigate the situation you describe somewhat.
If the car has a selector for sport mode, consider using it (in heavy traffic, but not on the freeway), as it holds the transmission in each gear somewhat longer keeping the revs up a bit and making the car more responsive (there is a small additional fuel cost, of course).
"Train" the transmission regularly. The procedure, which IS documented here on Edmunds goes "something like this" (but I cannot recall if this is precisely correct):
1. Turn the key to the on position, don't start the car, however
2. Shift the transmission to D.
3. Press the accelerator to the floor until you feel the "resistance" and push beyond the resistance until you hear or sense that a button has been pushed (the kick down switch, perhaps?) Somewhere in the cobwebs of my mind, I believe that you need to repeat this step for a total of 4 pushes.
4. Ready the car for starting.
5. Start the car and from a dead stop accelerate "briskly" -- this will teach the transmission to be "more repsonsive."
This is NOT permanent, but -- and again I caution you to find the exact procedure -- it will mitigate your tip lag (not turbo lag, since there is virtually none in the 1.8T).
Tip chips are available from a variety of sources. I even chipped my first 1.8t ENGINE to increase its power and torque -- of course there is always the possibility that even though both will increase that the sensation of "lag" caused by the tiptronic will only exacerbate the situation.
Next time, go manual transmission -- sorry to say.
Thanks for the response Mark. I did know, going into the purchase, that lag was going to be an issue. I drove the Passat several times prior to buying the car and considered the lag acceptable and therefore I bought the Passat. I truely believe that it is something I can live with. It just takes some adjusting to.....
Since my wife cannot (refuses to learn) drive a manual, it wasn't an option this time around. Though I do miss shifting as I did in my Jetta.
Have an '04 GLS Automatic and notice that when reaching upper levels of each gear there appears to be a vibration in the steering wheel and gas pedal. Anyone else experiencing this? Have an '03 GL 5 speed that doesn't have this situation.
A local VW dealer told me last week that the manual transmission Passat is being "phased out" in the U.S. Has anyone else heard this? I was hoping to buy a manual 1.8T, but I've only been able to locate about 5 of them in my area, and none with the options I'm looking for.
We are getting our daughter a car -- and it's down to either a 03 Passat or a 04 mazda 3. i tried to get her to look at the Scion TC but she wouldn't.
anyway -- any comments on overall reliability of the Passat?? i love the drive but my history of cars is that german (bmw, porsche, and mbenz) are fun to drive and bad on reliability and japanese are very reliable.
I recently had a similar dilemma. After driving several cars, my choice came down to a 04.5 Passat GLS and an 04 Mazda S. I choose the Passat because it's roomier, has better crash-test ratings, and has a far more sophisticated interior. Both cars drive very well. The Mazda will likely be more reliable but it's tough not to be seduced by German engineering once you drive one. I've put almost 1000 miles on the car so far; so far, so good.
My daughter won't be driving a VW until the reliability gets a lot better.
The Mazda 3 is outstanding and most likely will be far more dependable. You realize, of course, that you are cross shopping two different types of sedans.The Mazda 3 is a compact, similar to the Jetta. The midsize Mazda6s is rated as the safest family sedan in Consumer Reports 2004 car guide this year, so Mazda knows safety.
I love everything about the Passat except the frequent trips to the dealerships for repairs (two neighbors own Passats and have had those experiences) and the large tab for replacement parts. Both neighbors said they love their Passats for its driving characteristics, but they won't buy VW again.
What does everyone know about this problem? I know this was mentioned in some previous posts. I just read that 426,000 VW Passat and Audi A4 ('98-'04) owners will be notified. I bought my Passat in June and was wondering if ALL cars built during this timeframe are affected. Will new cars that are being shipped possibly experience this as well?
Thoughts?
I guess it is even more important to get your oil changed on time...
I don't have an inside track on this issue. But, I do have eyes and ears. Here is what I see and hear: manual transmission versions of more and more cars -- even the ones you would almost assume would be manual shift equipped first -- are [apparently] in low and shrinking demand.
It is also true that even the German market only cars are becoming more and more auto only.
This is a market-driven phenom. "We" have essentially voted with our dollars -- manual transmission versions of cars are not as popular as automatic versions, period.
Personally this is frustrating, for when I have found a car that offers a choice they will often take the manual choice away if you couple it with eigther some lux, sport or performance features.
The Passat V6 with "all the toys" on it can be had with a manual unless you want AWD, then bzzzz! auto only. And, the difference with the AWD V6 and tip is -- hear that ? (bark bark) the Passat with the tip is a dog. And no wonder, the final drive of the tip, coupled with the inherent power robbing nature of the auto, just saps the accelerative capability.
After drivng the Passat AWD V6, I drove, back to back two Audi A4's (both quattros) both V6's -- one with auto one manual. They weren't even the same car.
This Audi comparison, imagined "as if" the Passat had been made available with the same choice, convinced me that the Passat V6 manual transmission AWD would have been THE bargain and a very good performer.
But, VW brings out the tremendous W8, offers it in "sport" mode with a manual transmission -- then lets it die. The local dealer had 1 and it sat forever on the lot -- the W8, then the Phaeton have been ignored by VW and its dealer body.
Manual transmissions are basically a vanishing breed -- either truly because no one wants one or because the dealers simply order their inventory with the autos (but who can blame them if they truly would have to "work" to sell a stick shift car.)
We have met the enemy -- and it is us.
Audi dealers, AoA attemped to resurect the manual transmissions with the current model of the A6 (which came out as a '98 model -- auto only). In 1999 or 2000, Audi offered the A6 2.8 with a manual transmission in response to the dealer body who claimed that the Audi 100 and the replacement A6 had never not had a manual option (and that it accounted for some 25% of sales). Audi complied and the manual transmission versions had to be seriously discounted to move.
Personally, I found the issue to be that the manual transmission equipped cars are often "stripped down" models.
My current 2003 allroad had to be ordered with "all options" on the option sheet and a stick shift -- no such configurations were ordered by any dealer in the "region" -- but there were plenty similarly equipped with auto transmissions.
Again, the customer is apparently just not buying them.
As I gear up for my purchase of a new car within the next few months, I find that the Acura RL, the Chrysler 300C AWD, the Cadillac STS and the Audi A6 -- don't even offer stick shift transmissions. Apparently, only if I stick with the Audi A4 will I be offered the choice of a manual.
I often wonder if the customers actually take a stick and an auto for comparable test drives -- I have literally never known anyone to choose the auto over the manual when such a test drive (long) is taken. Worst of all, my wife, she WILL NOT drive an automatic, not for love, nor money.
This, is a self inflicted wound.
Vote with your dollars, buy manual transmissions and if enough of us do this, the manual offerings will proliferate.
I think DSG may be the future for Audi/VW enthusiasts. It will satisfy people on the fence trying to decide between manual and auto.
While I really enjoy driving stick; my 1.5 and 2.5 year old boys love saying "vroom vroom" while I pop the clutch in and rev to 5K (with mom out of the car), I constantly have to hear from my wife that she hates driving it.
The reviews I've read regarding the DSG make it seem to be the ideal choice. An A3 Sportback DSG; even with the 2.0T seems, without any first hand experience, to be an amazing car. A car that would accelerate to 60 in just under 7 (I think 0-100kph in 7.0) with highway mpg in the high 30's (6.6 l/100km). The performance would come with real world drivability because of a huge amount of torque (relatively) down low and excellent throttle response of the FSI.
I believe that the next Passat will also share this platform (being moved away from the expensive A6 platform-ASF) and will offer similar (if not identical) engines.
It would seem the next Passat will be much more competitive in its market segment. If only they could increase their reliability; actual and perceived.
A true manual may be dying but the alternative, at least from Audi/VW, seems an appropriate evolution.
I truly do understand your view on manual transmissions. I used to share that view.
My current view is that automatic transmissions (including, but not limited to the DSG mentioned above) have now reached the point where they are actually superior to manuals in some critical aspects. The Tiptronic in my W8 was not the most responsive such device I have driven. But the torque and linear power delivery of the 4.0L motor made it more than acceptable. And my current ‘ride’ has a better one.
And we are clearly a nation where the average age is rising – and with an older populace, typically comes an increase in disabilities that limit physical functioning.
And heavy traffic (where, for many, a manual is just work – no enjoyment to be had) is becoming even more widespread.
I owned and drove nothing but manual trans. cars for many years. 3 on the column, 4-or-5-on the floor – even 4 on the tree (a Peugeot) and 4 speed with separate O/D (Volvo).
But I (and many others) have either physical reasons to require an automatic – and / or simply the desire not to have to deal with a clutch all the time. The current crop of man-u-matics offers an opportunity to significantly enhance the gear change aspect of driving a car when desired - with the option of simply popping it in full automatic mode when Hotlanta area traffic becomes more stop than go.
Just my $0.01.5 worth = with a penny and a half mail in rebate = FREE!
- Ray RE: Powertrain choices . . .
(From the Car and Driver 1965 Annual issue)
Pontiac Tempest / GTO
With 215ci 6 140 HP (!) - 3 speed manual, 4 speed manual, 2 speed automatic(!) Final drive ratios: 2.56 / 2.93 / 3.08
With 326ci 8 250 HP – same 3 trans. options Final drive ratios: 2.56 / 2.93 / 3.08 / 3.23
With 389ci 8 335 HP – same 3 trans. options Final drive ratios: 3.23 / 3.36 / 3.55 / 3.90
With 389ci 8 360 HP – same 3 trans. options Final drive ratios: 3.55 / 3.90
Note: Not all final drive ratios are available with all trans. options.
So – looking ONLY at powertrain combinations, I calculate a minimum of 12 powertrain combinations BEFORE adding possible final drive ratio options into the mix.
(And there were clearly many, many other options and color choices, etc!)
I believe that all 1.8T onwers are going to be notified.
Will all cars be affected? I'm not sure what you mean...do you mean will all cars sludge their oil? I'd say no, if the vehicle is properly maintained. Or do you mean that all cars need to follow the recommendations in the notice? I'd say yes, absolutely.
Will new car being shipped be affected? Again, I'd say yes. IF the wrong oil is used and if the oil change interval of 5,000 miles/6 months is ignored, then oil sludge development is a possiblity.
The 1.8T runs a hot turbo and has a smallish sump. The larger oil filter being used on the '04's goes some ways to address the sump volume (I plan to request that filter for the next change on my '03). It's not a low stress engine - definitely stay on top of the oil change interval and use an oil that meets VW spec 502.00 in the appropriate multigrade (as noted in the recent communication from VWoA).
Sorry my post was not clear, but you did answer my questions. What I meant by "will all cars be affected" is did VW address this problem with new Passats and the oil sludge possibility may not affect newer VW's. I understand that diligent maintenance is very important to not incur any problems.
Not to beat a dead horse here, but I think we'd all be interested in a little more detail here to see if anyone can give you some useful suggestions.
At this point, has the dealership told you that the reason your engine seized is due to sludging? Or some other mechanical issue, such as a timing belt failure?
Were all of your oil changes performed at the dealership?
What kind of oil has been used - synthetic or regular?
How many oil changes exceeded the recommended 5,000 mile interval? You should have had about 10 changes total in 52,000 miles prior to that last change 4,000 miles ago.
Did you get any warning? Any instrument lights come on intermittently or steadily? Any peculiar noises from the engine?
Could you give a little narrative covering exactly what happened when the engine died?
My oil changes took place at the dealer. I don't know what kind of oil they used. Don't you think they should be telling me what need??
My car has had no history of issues. Driving my car on Sunday and my STOP low oil pressure light went on. I pulled over. Checked oil and oil level was fine. Engine not making any noise or doing anything strange. I proceed about 1 mile to a highway exit. During this time car was losing power and made a bit of a noise.
I had it towed to the dealer. Dealer told me that car engine seized. I was flabbergasted and he said I didn't have enough oil - NOT TRUE! I had just checked it.
They told me because I didn't not have oil changed every 5,000 miles no warranty. My car has been changed 8 times. I am originally owner. I had EVERY Major service done to the car.
Volkswagen is "investigating" my case. They have had me talk to 7 people in 5 days and they tell me they need 2-3 more days. You can't talk to a supervisor or even the same person twice.
Lets hope that VW will come through and cover the engine replacement. The only thing that will not help your cause are the instances that you exceeded your oil change interval. Since VW advises to change oil every 5K miles, then that is what they expect to happen. If you exceeded tht a couple of times they can say that you did not follow the maintenance schedule per VW.
I agree with you, you should not of experienced this problem. Even if you did wait for 8K miles between intervals your engine should not of seized. I hope VW will see it this way.
But something is confusing me. You said that you could not prove all oil changes were done. But if you had all your services completed by a VW dealer, they should have your maintenance history in their system.
One good thing I see regarding the response from VW, is they have not denied a new engine yet. it appears that they are still considering the option.
I know your mad, but I would advise you NOT to be rude or nasty to the dealer or any VW rep, because they will have the final say in whether to cover your replacement engine.
Comments
You can buy it before the factory warranty expires. However, anything could happen in 4 years. The warranty company could be out of business in 4 years or not be taking new customers or you might decide to get rid of the car at or before 4 years and the extended warranty will not matter then.
If the car turns out to be a lemon, why would you want to keep fixing it after 4 years, extended warranty or not? If it is troublesome, dump it.
Anyway, it is odd that the salesperson does not want the commission money now. He is not going to get anything if you buy the warranty in 4 years from now.
I take it in to get serviced soon and I'm going to ask my VW dealer at that time. I also plan to take it to get detailed and will get the leather treatment done. Hopefully that will mask the smell.
No one else complains of it though, infact my husband says it smells fine to him and doesn't see (smell
But really, don't let my smelly car be even a small factor against getting a Passat! I LOVE the car inside and out.. except for it's BO *grin*
Carrie ~2003 Passat GLS 1.8T AT Candy White/Beige Leather interior
I can understand about #2 color choices. I really wanted the Blue Silver (I drool everytime I see a Passat sedan or wagon in that color!) but at the time there were none on the East Coast that my dealer could track down. I even did my own calling and he was right. Popular color!
So the other choices were the darker grey and white and I went with the Candy White with Beige interior. It took a LONG time for me to like the white but now its grown on me!
Enjoy the Passat!
Carrie
I am speculating that what you might be hearing is the lubrication "mechanics" rushing to make certain the turbo is lubed and ready for those 6 figure RPM's at which they are famous for spinning.
Generally, the turbo engines have lots more lubrication complexities than the non turbo engines. For example, the underside of the pistons receive a cooling spray of oil, non turbo versions do not.
This is the only thing that springs to my mind that could be the sound you hear -- my wife has a 225HP TT (2003) 1.8T . . . temporary oil starvation and the replensihment of the oil for the benefit of the turbos is my story and I'm stickin' to it.
This time, however, I am NOT positive that this is the sound you are hearing -- like I said the ABS sound was a piece of pie (easy as cake!)
1. The VW website claims that it is the best of both worlds (lease and buying). If so, what's the catch? I am sure there is something that is obvious, but I am not seeing, and is not explained on the website?
2. The web site says it is based on a "finance contract". Is that contract any different from the lease contract?
3. Do you get tied to the contract as you would in a lease? i.e you cannot break a lease once signed without paying huge fees. Or, in this case you are free to sell the car if you want to in the middle of the contract?
4. Has any one here tried that option? What are your thoughts? Would you recommend it to others?
Thanks,
-Mitch&Murray
The closed ended lease is my personal preference, but I like to keep my cars less than 50,000 miles. As I get older, I keep wondering if I will maintain this attitude -- at this point, a new car every 30 months is more important to me.
To each his/her own.
We've had our V6 AT 4Motion wagon for 2 weeks now with a few trips under our belt (1700 miles). On 2 occasions while coasting in traffic at about 10-15mph, after going to accelerate there is a pause (as this AT seems to do) as it hunts for whether I want 1st or 2nd, and when it chooses I get a truly horrible clunk after which both times my wife asks if we've been rear-ended (just to illustrate). Also, this is with light throttle...i can only imagine if i was really in a hurry.
anybody else experience this, please point to a previous post if i missed it. thanks
This is a known flaw. I had mine fixed 5 weeks ago. Call you dealer. There's lots of talk about this on the vwvortex web site.
Thanks.
I read someone else has the same issue.
When you hold the dolby button, the first setup option (and only option) is for the speed sensitive and lets you pick 0 (off) or 1,2,3.
I wish it did have a turn on volume setting.
Anyway, enough ranting. The only thing bad that has happened since the warranty expired concerns a boot on the axle shaft. It ruptured and leaked gooey grease all over the LF. My 60K mi. drivetrain warranty didn't cover the boot. An axle shaft or axle joint yes, but not a rubber boot. I did it at work and it was a mess. 53K mi; but my co-worker said his broke at 8K mi. So, it could have been different. The regular bumper-to-bumper warranty would have covered it then. Nothing other than an occasional light bulb to report as of this date.
1) Outlines an extension of the warranty to cover oil sludging to unlimited miles / 8 years for the 1.8T engine only.
2) Specifies that engine oil should meet VW Spec 502.00. A list of oils that meet 502.00 was included - it only lists synthetic oil in either 5w-40, 0w-40 and 5w-30 multigrades. To repeat, there are no dino oils on the list. Specifically mentioned were: Synpower 5w-30 and 5w-40, Mobil 1 0w-40 only, Castrol Syntec 5w-40 and a handful of others from Pennzoil, Kendall, Havoline and Quaker State. Notably in their absence was Amsoil, Royal Purple, and Redline.
3) Specifies a 5,000 mile / six month change interval. In certain cases (short trips, stop & go driving, and extended below-freezing temps) could require more frequent changes.
1) Is the engine taking less oil to fill now than when it was new? In other words, will 3.5 quarts of oil when show on the dipstick as filled to the top, whereas as it used to be closer to 4 quarts? In worst case scenarios, the oil pan is getting so gunked up that the sludge is actually displacing the oil in the pan.
2) Any noticeable "peanut butter" like substance visible through the oil filler cap?
3) Any flickering of the oil light on the instrument cluster? What seems to be happening is that the sludge actually impairs the ability of the oil pump to circulate oil, hence the light.
Hope this helps.
I'd hazard a guess that adding short trips (which doesn't allow moisture to evaporate out of the oil) and poor (or no) turbo cooldown procedure contributes to the problem. Add in a smallish sump of 3.9 US quarts doesn't help (notice that the 2004 Passats come with a larger oil filter that increases the overall oil capacity).
I bought my Passat on June 26th and love it.
The only problem/issue I have had with my Passat was a rattle in the dash. I brought it into the dealer to have them look into the noise and got the car back with the rattle still there. Not only was the rattle still loud, but they apparently backed my car into a pole while in their possession. They had my car for the better part of a week but when I got it back, the bumper looked great and the dash rattle was gone. The rattle was caused by a clip in the dash that was either loose or broken. My interior is as quiet as ever now.
Pros: The fit and finish is superior to any car I have ever driven. Ride quality is great and it is very comfortable on the highway while cruising at high speeds. Features such as the the trip computer, MPG calculations, miles to empty, etc..... are very nice. The style of the Passat will be a classic for many many years to come. Leatherette interior looks just like leather and seems very durable.
AC works great!!
Cons: TURBO LAG!!! I love my Passat, but the lag takes getting used to. It almost seems like you can't accelerate smoothly, you depress the gas pedal and either you sit there waiting for the turbo to spool or you are rocketing into the car in front of you. It is manageable, but it would be nice if the lag is subdued slightly.
The handling is nice but the suspension could be a little more firm
My gas mileage seems to be getting better with time. With a 60/40 split between highway/city, I recently averaged almost 25 MPG.
if I had to do it again I would buy another Passat. I look forward to reading and seeing the new '06 Passat.
If you read here and over on the Audi Town hall (A4's) you will find that the Tip versions of these recent VW/Audi products are regularly and frequently criticized for this "hesitant" behavior.
In fact, after four in a row, I literally bought the "only" remaining full-sized Audi I could get with a stick shift (I had only the A6 2.7T and the allroad 2.7T available in October 2002, when I bought my 2003 model year cars, with stick shifts).
Without any glee or pleasure in saying so, "what you have is normal, widely reported, derided and disliked." You almost certainly had to know the reputation of this transmission prior to purchase.
But, let's for a moment assume that, like most of us, you cannot be 100% diligent in "finding the dirt" about everything. What do yo do now?
Write a letter. Seriously, write a letter to VW. It will not immediately help your situation, probably, but it will help eventually all of us who want to continue buying VW and Audi products but know that manual transmissions, no matter how desirable and superior to most autos is going the way of the do-do bird.
Investigate the "tip chip" upgrade (here and all over the WWW). This will NOT be free to you and don't expect VW to pay for it, not gonna happen. However, the tip chip will mitigate the situation you describe somewhat.
If the car has a selector for sport mode, consider using it (in heavy traffic, but not on the freeway), as it holds the transmission in each gear somewhat longer keeping the revs up a bit and making the car more responsive (there is a small additional fuel cost, of course).
"Train" the transmission regularly. The procedure, which IS documented here on Edmunds goes "something like this" (but I cannot recall if this is precisely correct):
1. Turn the key to the on position, don't start the car, however
2. Shift the transmission to D.
3. Press the accelerator to the floor until you feel the "resistance" and push beyond the resistance until you hear or sense that a button has been pushed (the kick down switch, perhaps?) Somewhere in the cobwebs of my mind, I believe that you need to repeat this step for a total of 4 pushes.
4. Ready the car for starting.
5. Start the car and from a dead stop accelerate "briskly" -- this will teach the transmission to be "more repsonsive."
This is NOT permanent, but -- and again I caution you to find the exact procedure -- it will mitigate your tip lag (not turbo lag, since there is virtually none in the 1.8T).
Tip chips are available from a variety of sources. I even chipped my first 1.8t ENGINE to increase its power and torque -- of course there is always the possibility that even though both will increase that the sensation of "lag" caused by the tiptronic will only exacerbate the situation.
Next time, go manual transmission -- sorry to say.
Good luck.
Since my wife cannot (refuses to learn) drive a manual, it wasn't an option this time around. Though I do miss shifting as I did in my Jetta.
anyway -- any comments on overall reliability of the Passat?? i love the drive but my history of cars is that german (bmw, porsche, and mbenz) are fun to drive and bad on reliability and japanese are very reliable.
comments??
thx.
The Mazda 3 is outstanding and most likely will be far more dependable. You realize, of course, that you are cross shopping two different types of sedans.The Mazda 3 is a compact, similar to the Jetta. The midsize Mazda6s is rated as the safest family sedan in Consumer Reports 2004 car guide this year, so Mazda knows safety.
I love everything about the Passat except the frequent trips to the dealerships for repairs (two neighbors own Passats and have had those experiences) and the large tab for replacement parts. Both neighbors said they love their Passats for its driving characteristics, but they won't buy VW again.
Thoughts?
I guess it is even more important to get your oil changed on time...
It is also true that even the German market only cars are becoming more and more auto only.
This is a market-driven phenom. "We" have essentially voted with our dollars -- manual transmission versions of cars are not as popular as automatic versions, period.
Personally this is frustrating, for when I have found a car that offers a choice they will often take the manual choice away if you couple it with eigther some lux, sport or performance features.
The Passat V6 with "all the toys" on it can be had with a manual unless you want AWD, then bzzzz! auto only. And, the difference with the AWD V6 and tip is -- hear that ? (bark bark) the Passat with the tip is a dog. And no wonder, the final drive of the tip, coupled with the inherent power robbing nature of the auto, just saps the accelerative capability.
After drivng the Passat AWD V6, I drove, back to back two Audi A4's (both quattros) both V6's -- one with auto one manual. They weren't even the same car.
This Audi comparison, imagined "as if" the Passat had been made available with the same choice, convinced me that the Passat V6 manual transmission AWD would have been THE bargain and a very good performer.
But, VW brings out the tremendous W8, offers it in "sport" mode with a manual transmission -- then lets it die. The local dealer had 1 and it sat forever on the lot -- the W8, then the Phaeton have been ignored by VW and its dealer body.
Manual transmissions are basically a vanishing breed -- either truly because no one wants one or because the dealers simply order their inventory with the autos (but who can blame them if they truly would have to "work" to sell a stick shift car.)
We have met the enemy -- and it is us.
Audi dealers, AoA attemped to resurect the manual transmissions with the current model of the A6 (which came out as a '98 model -- auto only). In 1999 or 2000, Audi offered the A6 2.8 with a manual transmission in response to the dealer body who claimed that the Audi 100 and the replacement A6 had never not had a manual option (and that it accounted for some 25% of sales). Audi complied and the manual transmission versions had to be seriously discounted to move.
Personally, I found the issue to be that the manual transmission equipped cars are often "stripped down" models.
My current 2003 allroad had to be ordered with "all options" on the option sheet and a stick shift -- no such configurations were ordered by any dealer in the "region" -- but there were plenty similarly equipped with auto transmissions.
Again, the customer is apparently just not buying them.
As I gear up for my purchase of a new car within the next few months, I find that the Acura RL, the Chrysler 300C AWD, the Cadillac STS and the Audi A6 -- don't even offer stick shift transmissions. Apparently, only if I stick with the Audi A4 will I be offered the choice of a manual.
I often wonder if the customers actually take a stick and an auto for comparable test drives -- I have literally never known anyone to choose the auto over the manual when such a test drive (long) is taken. Worst of all, my wife, she WILL NOT drive an automatic, not for love, nor money.
This, is a self inflicted wound.
Vote with your dollars, buy manual transmissions and if enough of us do this, the manual offerings will proliferate.
Don't hold your breath.
While I really enjoy driving stick; my 1.5 and 2.5 year old boys love saying "vroom vroom" while I pop the clutch in and rev to 5K (with mom out of the car), I constantly have to hear from my wife that she hates driving it.
The reviews I've read regarding the DSG make it seem to be the ideal choice. An A3 Sportback DSG; even with the 2.0T seems, without any first hand experience, to be an amazing car. A car that would accelerate to 60 in just under 7 (I think 0-100kph in 7.0) with highway mpg in the high 30's (6.6 l/100km). The performance would come with real world drivability because of a huge amount of torque (relatively) down low and excellent throttle response of the FSI.
I believe that the next Passat will also share this platform (being moved away from the expensive A6 platform-ASF) and will offer similar (if not identical) engines.
It would seem the next Passat will be much more competitive in its market segment. If only they could increase their reliability; actual and perceived.
A true manual may be dying but the alternative, at least from Audi/VW, seems an appropriate evolution.
I truly do understand your view on manual transmissions. I used to share that view.
My current view is that automatic transmissions (including, but not limited to the DSG mentioned above) have now reached the point where they are actually superior to manuals in some critical aspects. The Tiptronic in my W8 was not the most responsive such device I have driven. But the torque and linear power delivery of the 4.0L motor made it more than acceptable. And my current ‘ride’ has a better one.
And we are clearly a nation where the average age is rising – and with an older populace, typically comes an increase in disabilities that limit physical functioning.
And heavy traffic (where, for many, a manual is just work – no enjoyment to be had) is becoming even more widespread.
I owned and drove nothing but manual trans. cars for many years. 3 on the column, 4-or-5-on the floor – even 4 on the tree (a Peugeot) and 4 speed with separate O/D (Volvo).
But I (and many others) have either physical reasons to require an automatic – and / or simply the desire not to have to deal with a clutch all the time. The current crop of man-u-matics offers an opportunity to significantly enhance the gear change aspect of driving a car when desired - with the option of simply popping it in full automatic mode when Hotlanta area traffic becomes more stop than go.
Just my $0.01.5 worth = with a penny and a half mail in rebate = FREE!
- Ray
RE: Powertrain choices . . .
(From the Car and Driver 1965 Annual issue)
Pontiac Tempest / GTO
With 215ci 6 140 HP (!) - 3 speed manual, 4 speed manual, 2 speed automatic(!)
Final drive ratios: 2.56 / 2.93 / 3.08
With 326ci 8 250 HP – same 3 trans. options
Final drive ratios: 2.56 / 2.93 / 3.08 / 3.23
With 389ci 8 335 HP – same 3 trans. options
Final drive ratios: 3.23 / 3.36 / 3.55 / 3.90
With 389ci 8 360 HP – same 3 trans. options
Final drive ratios: 3.55 / 3.90
Note: Not all final drive ratios are available with all trans. options.
So – looking ONLY at powertrain combinations, I calculate a minimum of 12 powertrain combinations BEFORE adding possible final drive ratio options into the mix.
(And there were clearly many, many other options and color choices, etc!)
Will all cars be affected? I'm not sure what you mean...do you mean will all cars sludge their oil? I'd say no, if the vehicle is properly maintained. Or do you mean that all cars need to follow the recommendations in the notice? I'd say yes, absolutely.
Will new car being shipped be affected? Again, I'd say yes. IF the wrong oil is used and if the oil change interval of 5,000 miles/6 months is ignored, then oil sludge development is a possiblity.
The 1.8T runs a hot turbo and has a smallish sump. The larger oil filter being used on the '04's goes some ways to address the sump volume (I plan to request that filter for the next change on my '03). It's not a low stress engine - definitely stay on top of the oil change interval and use an oil that meets VW spec 502.00 in the appropriate multigrade (as noted in the recent communication from VWoA).
95% of my service was performed by Volkswagen including regular oil changes. I can NOT prove every oil change and they won't help me!
They are horrible to work with. I have talked to 7 people in 4 days and they keep telling me "they are looking into it".
Volkswagen is trying to look like the nice guy with their new extended warranty...but they are screwing over their customers.
If you have suggestions on how to get this resolve or if you have had a similar issue please respond.
How many miles are on your car?
What year Passat?
How many miles did you go between oil changes?
What is their reason for not covering the oil sludge issue and when did this issue first start?
I wonder since VW issued this warning if they will be willing to work with you more!
2001 passat
I had my oil changed every 5-8,000 miles and can prove that.
I should not have had an engine seize.
Just had my oil change about 4,000 miles before this happened.
Help!
No warning at all.
VW doesn't want to take responsibilty for a BIG problem they are having.
Toyota, and Dodge also have the problem.
How can I get help!
Not to beat a dead horse here, but I think we'd all be interested in a little more detail here to see if anyone can give you some useful suggestions.
At this point, has the dealership told you that the reason your engine seized is due to sludging? Or some other mechanical issue, such as a timing belt failure?
Were all of your oil changes performed at the dealership?
What kind of oil has been used - synthetic or regular?
How many oil changes exceeded the recommended 5,000 mile interval? You should have had about 10 changes total in 52,000 miles prior to that last change 4,000 miles ago.
Did you get any warning? Any instrument lights come on intermittently or steadily? Any peculiar noises from the engine?
Could you give a little narrative covering exactly what happened when the engine died?
My car has had no history of issues. Driving my car on Sunday and my STOP low oil pressure light went on. I pulled over. Checked oil and oil level was fine. Engine not making any noise or doing anything strange. I proceed about 1 mile to a highway exit. During this time car was losing power and made a bit of a noise.
I had it towed to the dealer. Dealer told me that car engine seized. I was flabbergasted and he said I didn't have enough oil - NOT TRUE! I had just checked it.
They told me because I didn't not have oil changed every 5,000 miles no warranty. My car has been changed 8 times. I am originally owner. I had EVERY Major service done to the car.
Volkswagen is "investigating" my case. They have had me talk to 7 people in 5 days and they tell me they need 2-3 more days. You can't talk to a supervisor or even the same person twice.
Any more questions? Suggestions??
I agree with you, you should not of experienced this problem. Even if you did wait for 8K miles between intervals your engine should not of seized. I hope VW will see it this way.
But something is confusing me. You said that you could not prove all oil changes were done. But if you had all your services completed by a VW dealer, they should have your maintenance history in their system.
One good thing I see regarding the response from VW, is they have not denied a new engine yet. it appears that they are still considering the option.
I know your mad, but I would advise you NOT to be rude or nasty to the dealer or any VW rep, because they will have the final say in whether to cover your replacement engine.
Good luck and please keep us updated.
To clarify...I am able to prove all oil changes...but did exceed 5,000k a couple of times.
Volkswagen of America is horrible in terms of customer service. Basically I have talked to 9 people in 5 days.
They will not give you a supervisor or manager and they just say the claim is denied. That is it.
I think that in terms of customer service they have handled this HORRIBLY.