Volkswagen Passat 2005 and earlier

arupsarkar

Many emissions parts are covered for 80,000 miles by federal law. What parts did he have to replace?? $1000-$1200 is very expensive. Most, if not all of the expensive parts are covered by warranty. Of course since it is a federal law and not a VW warranty, frequently the dealer won't tell you this. You have to read the manual (which EVERYONE should do anyway) to find this out. So what parts did he have to change for that much money?

c1rybick

I know it's a Toyota, not a VW, but my Cressida allows you to select either outside air or the same climate controlled setting for the left center (dash) vent. I like to do what you do when it's cold, have it set for heat on the floor, but open the vent partially for a little upper level cooler air.

Sigh....no Passat yet. I got a speeding ticket last Saturday and I don't think that's gonna help my case much. My Cressida may have turned 17 last month, but it can still haul (sort of, lol). Edmunds says $16,835 TMV dealer retail for a 99 Passat GLS 1.8t with lux pkg.

cephas1

Help!I've been deciding between a Lexus ES 300 vs. a Passat GLX for 5 months! Decisions, decisions. Should I wait another 30 days for the 2003 Passat model? I can't find out anything from the folks at VW about any changes. I tend to keep my cars for at least 6 years. How's the reliability of the Passat. For service issues, would you absolutely buy from your "local" dealer, or hunt for the lowest price on the net, even if you saved just a few hundred bucks? Thanks, I need advice on this one!

steveiowa

If you're gonna drive it, buy the Passat. If you're gonna ride around in it while someone ELSE drives, get the Lexus.

trlyka

I have a '99 GLS stock radio with a tape player and a stock CD changer in the trunk. When I tune to AM radio, I get constant interference that is the same on all the AM stations. It's a consistent fluttering type sound that does not go away with changing areas. I can barely hear the program because the interference takes over most of the time.

I was wondering if anyone else has interference like that and if you changed your radio, did the interference go away?

I had an older car and I put in a new radio and it made a big difference, but that was from an '87 Ford radio to a new Kenwood. I wouldn't expect this from a newer stock radio, but it's pretty horrible reception.

Thanks

mulfomi

I just celebrated one year with my 2001.5 1.8t 5 spd Passat on June 7th. I was 6 miles short of 16,000 miles at the end of the day. Only problem I have had is that both headlights have burned out once and been replaced. Hardly a significant problem although I hope it doesnt indicate future burnouts or other electrical issues. I have thoroughly enjoyed the car and since I bought it my mom has purchased one and my brother bought an A4 (just had to one-up his older brother).

Also, I still look back at it when I walk away from it!!

vocus

VWs are known for poor radio reception for some reason, especially AM stations. I have the same problem with my 2002 Jetta. I don't think there is a fix, but you might wanna ask your dealer to check and be sure the antenna cable is properly attached to the radio. This might help. Otherwise, maybe you can get a pair of those old rabbit ears or something. Just kidding.

pkradd

mulfomi, Congrats on your anniversary. I've had my 2001.5 1.8T Passat a year and two months now. Have not put on as much mileage as you but so far no problems whatsoever. I too turn around and look at it when walking away.

vocus, Re: radio reception. I've had no problems here in So. Florida. The reception is the same as I was getting from my '98 Camry. A suggestion. Check and make sure the attenna is screwed on tight.

vocus

I did that, because they take it off at the carwash before I enter all the time. I know it's on tight, so that's not the problem.

georgek44

My 2000 Pasaat Monsoon system has very good FM reception and acceptable AM reception.

One thing I do is to to dry the antenna socket (on the roof ) with a q-tip or rolled piece of paper towel before re-attaching the mast after it has gone through the car wash. A drop or two of WD-40 also is a good idea - it prevents corrosion and improves conductivity.

vocus

Thanks for the tips, I will have to try that when I clean my car again.

georgek44

I just read on the AP ticker that the Microbus show car will be built in Germany and sold as a 2005 model.

trlyka

I didn't even think to check the antenna. I didn't even know it came off. I will check to make sure it's on tight. I'll probably still put in a different radio so I will at least have an in dash CD player. I really don't like a CD changer that I have to get out of the car to mess around with, plus all my tapes have been thrown out.

Thanks

trlyka

THANKS VOCUS

feculent

I have located two "slightly" used vehicles for sale by private parties. The first is a 2002 Passat GLS (1.8), automatic, leather, and otherwise pretty well loaded up, with about 14,000 miles on it....for about 20K (not bad). The second is a 2001 Saab 9-3 SE, manual transmission (I prefer) with about 16,000 miles, similarly loaded....for about 18K-19K. I know which board I'm on here, and can anticipate what I'm going to hear....but Passat's are so common where I live....I'm not sure about driving the same car as everyone else.

vwguild

name like *FECULENT* I would prefer it if you got
the Saab...Somehow I think that would be the better ride...

trlyka

Feculent as described in the dictionary: Full of foul or impure matter; fecal.

Now why would want to be known as that?

Maybe you should rethink a new name.

Anyway, names aside, I would go with what YOU like and not what you see on the road. Of course this board is biassed, so you may only get responses toward the Passat, which I of course am going to say you should get.

Once you're in a car you love, it shouldn't matter what others have. Beauty is in the eye of the driver. You say you see the Passat cars everywhere, but I think that once you start looking for a car to buy, you will see that type of car everywhere you look. It's like anything else you want, you seem to see it everywhere because it's on your mind until you make a decision. Have you driven either car? It's not like you'd be driving an oh so popular Honda Accord or something like that.....he-he

Good luck

ronsteve

I'll soon be looking to trade up from my 1999 Corolla, and seem to have narrowed the field to three. I've test driven the '02 Passat and Jetta, and am also considering the Accord coupe.

The Passat drove quite nicely, with respectable acceleration and good road manners, and the 1.8T and tiptronic combo is its greatest asset. What I didn't like was that the cruise control was on the turn signal stalk, like early '80s cars, unless you get leather. Also a little apprehensive about VW reliability.

The Jetta was a similarly nice drive. It felt quicker than the Passat, even though the published 0-60 times from VW are about identical. Still like the 1.8T and tiptronic. However the Jetta was less comfortable even from the driver's seat, and my VW reliability apprehension is even stronger with the Mexican built Jetta, vs the German built Passat.

Haven't driven the Accord yet. Honda reliablity and my greater comfort with Japanese ergonomics are the likely plusses. On the down side is that leather is standard in the EX V6 coupe, and there's no manu-matic capability.

What even handed advice can you offer on reliability and such? Any other considerations you think I should be aware of in this buying decision?

mulfomi

Regarding the antenna and to somewhat reiterate what Georgek44 mentions, I was told not to take the antenna off for car washes. The salesman told me the base that it screws into is subject to rust/corrosion and by removing the antenna you will get water in there. I guess if you do, do what Georgek44 does and make sure its dry before replacing. Perhaps vwguild and confirm that issue.

pkradd - Thanks!

dbmichal

What's everyone using to store CD's in their Passat. I would appreciate any recommendations. The middle storage won't fit a CD.

Thanks

trlyka

Well, the glove compartment is useless as well as the center console. I ran into the same problem. You could keep them in the trunk somewhere. Buy a small utility box or something like that. At least they will be out of the sun and close to the changer if you want to put new ones in. That is if yours is in the trunk. What about in your seat back? Take the CD's out of the cases and use a wallet type holder to store them in. I have a small one that holds more then 30 CD's. It's a little bigger then the jewel case and about twice as thick. Plus it's soft. It's not too big and it should fit in the pocket just fine.

spider6

There is a large slot opening directly under the steering column, it is designed to store your
owner's manual. I keep my manual at home, so this become a perfect place for CD magazine
case. I have a small case that stores about 20 cds that slides right into the slot opening and it
fits like a glove and also hides the cd magazine out of the view!

hoyamom1

My radio/cd player (2002 Passat) will play when there are no keys in the ignition. No big deal, except that I have kids old enough to get out of the car themselves, so after I get out sometimes they turn on the radio and don't turn it off. I don't want to sweat the small stuff, but if this is going to kill my battery when the radio is left on all night I'd like to know. Anyone have experience with this issue? Thanks -

8u6hfd

yeah it will since the car is not running, the alternator is not charging the battery.

mattbrown15

Does anyone know with any level of certainty if there are currently any dealer incentives on Passats? I will be purchasing soon and would like to know for negotiation purposes. I live in CT. Thanks in advance for any help.

-Matt

vwguild

The answer is No...However; Aggressive rates from
VCI still apply.

veedub1

hoyamom,

the radio will turn on for 1 hour without the key inserted. after that it will automatically turn off.

at least that's what my manual says.

trlyka

I've had my Passat ('99, V6, auto) for about 2 and 1/2 weeks. I put 89 octane in the first tank and 93 octane in the second. I notice a tapping, fluttering, diesel type sound which I have heard before, but it's a little louder now. I hear it at idle and when I first take off. It goes away when I speed up. It's a soft sound that you can only hear if you turn the radio down and listen carefully.

Is this sound a result of bad gas? The car has about 95,000 miles on it. It was supposedly very well maintained and I had the oil changed last week. I know it has an anti-knock sensors, but maybe it's not helping.

I'm in NJ, so the weather has been hot and humid and then cool and dry. Maybe there's water in the gas?

Would it help to add octane booster to the gas?

I just hope this isn't a sign of a bigger problem down the road.

If anyone has an idea as to why the car is making the tapping sound, please share.

Thanks

vocus

I know this is not pertaining to the Passat, but I think you can help me. I apologize for posting about something else here though, so don't be mad at me.

I have a 2002 Jetta 1.8T, and it has had rattles inside from day one. They have tried to fix the dash SEVEN times, to no avail. They finally said they are going to talk to a VW rep about it. I have an appt. on Monday to talk with him about possibly buying back my car.

My questions are how does this process work? Will they make me get another VW, or will they pay off my loan or what? I owe the MSRP on the loan, because it's only 7 months old and I didn't put any money down when I bought it. Also, have you ever seen this happen before? I was just curious.

Another thing, my car has 14800 miles on it now, and the MD lemon law limit is 15K. Do I need to stay under that 15K in order to qualify, or what?

If you could post some helpful answers here or email me (check my profile), I would be forever grateful. Thanks again!

pkradd

I don't believe Passats are built anywhere but Germany. Look at the window sticker, it tells country of manufacture. My 2001.5 Passat was assembled in Mosel, Germany.

vwguild

Call me: 888.556.3849

delia21

to me! Have had my car exactly one year today. Think I'll buy it an in-dash CD changer. Have not had any problems @ 10500 miles except my passenger side daytime running light blew out after ten months. What's with the lights anyway? No rattles or squeaks.

Love my car!
2001.5, manual,V6, lux, monsoon

inky

I also have a 01 Jetta, I saw $500 owner loyalty rebate from VW on KKB.com. is this so?
INKY

gatorsnap

Not that I'm an expert or anything, but have you had your timing belt checked ? With 99,000 on the engine I would guess it's time.

I got a good feeling reading the happy birthday message. I just got a 2002 manual V6 GLX monsoon in april. All I can say is, compare to BMW. All Passats are made in Germany.

Gatorsnap

trlyka

I wouldn't think that the timing belt would go out of sync unless it breaks. I'm not sure if it may be able to stretch over time. Along with new spark plugs, the timing belt will be replaced within the next 5,000 miles.

My Uncle has been in the car/Motor home business for as long as I can remember and although he hasn't heard the sound from my car first hand, but he did say that a lot of VW's will have a slight tapping/diesel type sound, but I will get it checked soon just to be sure it's not serious.

Aren't BMW's made in Germany too?

Congrats on your new arrival! Enjoy it!

Thanks

chevymalibu98

Not all BMW's currently sold in the U.S. are made in Germany. For example, some 325i's are made in South Africa and all X5's are made in the U.S.

mazadi

I just purchased a 2001.5 GLS tiptronic with the luxury package (leather, CD, heated seats, moonroof) from a VW dealer. The car had 11k miles on it, and I paid $22k. According to TMV this is a fair deal, but it sounds like the people on this board are getting better deals?

My only concern is that I got the V4 instead of the V6. I'm using this car as mainly a commuting car, so the 4 seemed to make more economic sense. It seems like the 4 has a fair amount of pep. Any thoughts from you other 1.8 owners?

klynnc

I'm looking into buying a Passat, I've heard confliciting reports. Can anyone tell me how you like your Passat. Is it hard to find dealers to work on it?

P.S- i have an altima for sale, great condition.. if you know anyone interested..

alfox

38k miles, 2-1/2 years, and no problems. Any VW dealer can maintain them, and I had no problem finding an independant mechanic who knows them well enough for routine maintenance. (Central Mass)

Remember that VW's wide-spread reputation for spotty reliability is based in part on J.D.Powers Consumer Satisfaction survey, which includes only 4-5 year old vehicles! The pre-89 Jettas and Golfs had dismal records, and the Passats were spotty. Post 89 vehicles have been uniformly average or better. Consumer Reports 2002 auto issue lists Jetta in the average band just below the line, and Golf just above the line. Passat is shown in the above average area.

caw103

I was looking through the 2002 Passat brochure and noticed the 4yr/50K miles warranty included this line:

"Wear and tear items and adjustments excluded after initial 12 mos/12,000 miles."

What qualifies as wear and tear items? What is excluded?

sandhurst

I purchased a 2002 Passat Wagon on June 7th. It is blue silver, 1.8T tiptronic, and has a black leather interior, the luxury package, Monsoon, and Homelink. It was assembled in March of 2002. I have not found a single flaw in it. The fit and finish and build quality are the best of any car I have ever owned.

Did I mention that it drives like a dream?

vwguild

are things like wiper blades, tires, and things that can be abused...brakes, clutch, etc.

5speeder

I gotta echo sandhurst's sentiments. I purchased my '02 GLS wagon, 1.8 manual, indigo blue, 'weather & 'link 1 month ago. I've already put 1100 miles on it--can't stop driving it! I have yet to find a single flaw. Best quality of any I've bought before, too.

caw103

With the 99 MY I never noticed any such language but then it was only a 2yr bumper to bumper warranty. Since I'm assuming future models will continue with this warranty, would persistent rattles and squeaks fall under "adjustments"? Here's hoping no.

The wagons are nice. Wanted to wait and see the Touareg but my wife wants to trade her ride now. Looking at ordering a 2003 wagon but not sure I want 2 passats in the driveway.:)

vwguild

Touareg here this time next year...you should wait...

trlyka

2 Passats or VW's are better then one.

I just bought a used '99 Passat and my boyfriend always wants to steal it from me. He drives a '98 Jeep Wrangler. I can't wait until he get's his Golf so we'll each have our own.

inky4

I start my search today for one of these. Are these as rare as Accord 5 speeds? I hope to find a lux and leather one and buy for $24k ($25.8 MSRP) Is that reasonable? Plus use my owner loyalty money on vw credit contract.
INKY

kloooo

Bought a 2002 Passat 1.8, lux pkg, monsoon. Only 14 miles before I bought it, after I drained the complimentary free gas and filled it up with 93 octane, the next morning I let it warm up and abt 1 minute later the check engine light comes on. Only 491 miles on this car! Took it to service, they said there's a software problem with the car and a specialist will be in on the 27th to look at it. Anyone had problems like this? Also, how do you turn the headlights off as DRL? The mechanic did the switch thing, but that turned off the headlights when I really just want like the 2001.5, to use those tiny bulbs in the high beams as the DRL, but they said it would require a new switch, and would probably mess up the lights if it was done anyway. I don't like using my headlights as DRL, will burn out sooner, and it's pretty stupid to have those tiny DRL there since the only time they come on is at night when you turn on the lights full! So ridiculous, they don't provide any usefull light at night so why have them come on except in the day.

vwguild

You did get the word on "three clicks" for the
gas cap, didn't you?

vwguild

Fewer than 10% of ALL cars sold in the US have
manual trannys...That will have to be your pricing guide as well...