As a long-time Honda owner and a recent Passat-convert I see what you are saying. I took the "risk" and have had 10k FLAWLESS miles.
Until MY Passat lets me down, I see no reason to worry about it.
RE: Price vs. BMW---Yes, a top ofthe line GLX is near 3-series $$$ levels, but I have a "base" GLS 1.8T that cost me less then $20k. I think the "base" level Passat is the real value leader and the upper level Passats are treading into a different price class of auto. It all comes down to personal choise. If I could spring for a $30k car, I would probably look Bimmer too, not GLX Passat.
I hope you find what you are looking for in the TL, it is an EXCELLENT car.
I agree that most people will talk about the problems that arise, but I personally have never seen as many problems listed on one sight about one kind of car as I have seen here. If you go look at the discussions about Audi A4's, you will have a hard time finding 1/4 as many complaints. That either means that it's a better car, or that for some reason, people who own Audi's don't go to edmunds.com to talk about the problems.
I think I'll start looking at the A4's and Volov S40s now. As much as I LOVE the exterior and interior of the Passat GLXs, I'm frightened about all of the troubles people are having with them. People keep saying that it's a great car that is built on the Audi frame, why not just get an Audi?
thanks for the rational response. the passat has a certain "magnetism" to it. keeps me considering it even in the slew or reported problems.
i see you have the turbo as opposed to the 6, which i would "perceive" as an even riskier move, but you are right about the price. i could go get a gls 4 for 350 over invoice tonight. i just wish that damn v6 wasn't such a premium. it make the bmw arguement that much easier.
Hello out there, I am in the market for a new car and have test drove the Passat --nice car and fun to drive. From reading the various posts here on this forum and others(Vortex, etc), I have come to a few conclusions: a) Due to the recent surge in VW sales in the US, coupled with the relatively low skill level of dealer service technicians, expect normal maintenance repairs to take longer than ususal and potential mis-diagnosing of problems.
b. The jury is still out on the new Passat's reliability. Performance and value are not an issue as much as the car's long term reliability vs. other cars in its class(Maxima, Camry, Accord).
c. The general feeling among Passat owners is that it's performance and driving experience overides the current problems that exists today with the car -- which are tolerable.
I currently own a 90 Maxima that has never given me any real problems. If anyone can provide me more information on the Passat to suggest that I am either paranoid or have been "brainwashed" by the powers that be, I would really appreciate it. I really like the car, but am sceptical. Should I wait a few years to get some real solid reliability data, or should I take the plunge???
I would try to keep what you read on the internet in a clear perspective, you seem to be doing that.
The best bet would be to approach as many people as you can that already drive new Passats. This happens to me all the time, people come up at gas stations, in parkng lot, etc and ask what I think of the car.
Well, I LOVE mine, 10k flawless miles and counting.
Dealers ARE clueless, unless you find a good one(I think I may have), but remember that all non-warrenty work can be done by someone else. After my "free" service is over, I will do most of the regular maintanance myself (oil changes, fluid checks) and have my local Euro-Garage and Tire place do anything I don't have the training or equipment to do (tires, brakes, etc.) After 24k miles, the dealer will only see me if I am ordering parts or getting warrenty stuff fixed.
A side note...My friend bought a 98 Grand Am brand new(not my personal favorite car, but he LOVES it) at 50k miles, he had to replace the water pump and it cost almost $700.00 out of pocket. VW's 10/100k Powertrain warrenty would have covered that.
I test drove the 4 cylinder last year--automatic--and found it to be very sluggish. But my budget right now may not allow me to upgrade to a 6 cylinder. Any thoughts on whether the 99 4 cylinder has any more power than the 98 did? Is the 4 cylinder enough in the automatic?
I test drove the 4 cylinder last year--automatic--and found it to be very sluggish. But my budget right now may not allow me to upgrade to a 6 cylinder. Any thoughts on whether the 99 4 cylinder has any more power than the 98 did? Is the 4 cylinder enough in the automatic?
I have the manual 4cyl engine (1.8T) and think the power level is just fine. The general concensus seems to be that, with the auto tranny(Tiptronic), the 1.8T is a bit sluggish.
I am sure there are LOTS of happy automatic, 4cyl drivers out there though, it all depends on what is "enough power" to YOU.
For what it's worth, EVERY 4cyl I have ever dirven with an automatic tranny has been sluggish.
i also owned a 90 max for a long time. no real problems until after 100k (fuel injectors)...
the new max styling is bordering on ugly (just my opinion) so it was off my list right away. if the new maxima looked liked a passat, i'd be the PAXIMA SE, right now.
you've the same concerns that i do and for me it's more than just internet hearsay...
i can't recommend what to do as i am in the same pickle as you are. i like it, but i'm skeptical of car's reliability (and future costs i'll incur), vw dealers and vw's support, crummy b2b warranty, price of glx nearing 30k (ouch).
Regarding performance of the 1.8T with the automatic. I think the performance relative to other 4 cylinders IN IT'S CLASS is slightly above average in my estimation. Certainly not a tire smoker, but not embarrassing which many other 4's are (Accord,318i). The tiptronic can be a big plus as you can ensure that you are in the right gear (read in the power band) if you need to accelerate. Other posts mention severe turbo lag with the Auto. My opinion is that the turbo lag for this engine isn't all that significant. The real issue is accelerating at low RPM with a small displacement, multi-valve overhead cam engine. That is true of cars with manual tranny's and much more horsepower. Once you get the RPMs up and keep them up, the acceleration isn't bad (FOR IT'S CLASS). This requires use of the tiptronic at times and thinking ahead when you need to accelerate, but isn't that part of the fun of driving? So if you can't afford or don't want the V6 and you don't want a manual - compare the Passat to other 4's (with Auto's) and make your own assessment. Good Motoring!
So far I've had a good experience with my 99 Passat Wagon 4cyl with the TipTronic. It hasn't let me down and I've been driving it very frequently for the last 5 months (15K miles already). If is a very comfortable car and feels very strong and safe.
One strange anomoly with the car is it seems to build up a significant static charge on dry days, and there is a strange suction effect felt by my ear drumbs if I only have 1 window or just the sunroof open. The blue instrament lighting was a bit of a surprise, but it grew on me..
Just bought a 99 Passat GLS. Great to drive, couldn't be happier, but...After a day and a half of thinking I needed my eyes checked, I realized I had a defective windshield. It's got a warp in it. Had a service guy look at it and awaiting word about its replacement under warranty. He said he saw the same thing on another Passat a few days before.
Anybody else have this problem? Anybody know if the act of windshield replacement will compromise the sound-proofness of my new car?
As I mull over buying a Passat, which I would say that I am leaning towards NOT buying, I am wondering why VW only has a 2yr/24K bumper to bumper warranty? This B2B warranty is the worst in the industry, and I would like to know if anyone knows if VW has ever come out to say WHY they only have a 2yr/24K B2B...? From reading the various posts out there on the Passat and other VW products, it seems as though VW should have at a bare minimum - 3yr/36K miles as most other car makers have. IMO, buying an argueably shoddy car with a limited B2B warranty is truley rolling the dice. Any high rollers out there?
I agree that the 2/24 b2b is short, but the Powertrain warrenty is 10 Years/100,000 miles and covers everything from the waterpump to the Turbo(YES it covers the turbo!).
The so-called "reliability gurus" at Honda give you a 3/36 Powertrain warrenty. Not exactly standing by the product in my opinion.
This means that, at say...50k miles, I might have to replace a piece of trim or a broken radio knob, but if my water pump goes, VW fixes it for FREE, in a Honda it will set you back over $500 bucks. Frankly, I will take a VERY long warrenty that covers the big, expensive stuff over an extra year of b2b. In ANY car, the instance of repairs in the first 3 years are VERY low, so I don't think 1 less year of b2b will make much difference to the average driver. I'll drive about 36k miles in 2 years anyway, so it was nearly a non-issue for me, whereas the 10/100k Powertrain warrenty is something I may rely on in the future.
All that said, I agree that VW should lengthen the b2b to the industry standard of 3/36, just to ease potential buyers' minds.
In March of 1999 we bought a new Passat Wagon with the 1.8 turbo. Traded a Crown Vic in. Should of kept it,the best car I ever owned.. Since we got it I've had it back to the garage to get the licence plate lights repairs but they took an hour and a half to fix as they built it without any ends on the wire so to fix it you have to remove the inside liner on the back door and door lack. Next problem was the Valve cover gasket was leaking and they installed a new gasket but this time they used gasket glue as they should have done in the factory. Problem fixed. Oil leak in the power steering hose Clamps are not heavy enough to clamp the hose tight enough so as not to leak, installed a regular type hose clamp and that was fixed. Snapping noise in the steering wheel when you turn the wheel 180 degrees. The clamp next to the unverisal joint At 21000 Kilometers or 13000 miles I started hearing a noise in the engine when I let up on the gas and the car was between coasting and starting to pull. It sounded like a small $ 20.00 air compressor running. Took it into the Gararge and had the Shop foreman go for a ride. He said: I hear it but I don't know what it is. So in Sept. I drove it to Rode Island and back and by that time it was getting worse. So back to the Dealer I go. I said to the shop foreman you got to go for another test drive. This time he heard it and this time we all came to the same conclusion! Piston Slap. They pulled the engine down and # 4 piston and # 1 piston could be rocked back and forth in the cylinder wall. So they called the area Rep. and he said FIX IT. So as we speak there is another brand new engine on it's way from Germany. But my question now is how long will that one last?? Another 31000 kilometers. How many of these engines were made with .001 over spec.cylinders? I have to say I have been treated very good at the dealer where I go and they don't try to cover anything up their honest or I'll say the mechanics are as I go right out back and watch them as they work on it weather I'm allowed or not! It's my car. They did say oh you'll get 40 miles to a gallon I get 30 to 32 miles to the gallon. I see where somebody wrote in saying they use 87 octane. these engines are high performance and to put 87 octane in them will foul them up and cause grief like you would not want.. Heh! gas is cheap compared to a new engine if it will run that long on it's own. I would like to hear if anyone else has had this trouble with the engine as we have. Right now the dealer has given me a Pontiac Grand Am to drive around in until they get it fixed. Dave.
Sporin, I see your point on the 10yr/100K powertrain warranty with reference to the 2yr/24K B2B. What I think is happening is that a perception of VW's reliability is being built around this short, NY minute B2B. I notice that the Beetle and Jetta do not have nearly as many complaints about them, is there a conspiracy goinfg on here?
My cruise control light does NOT come on when I turn on the cruise control. Now get this: VW of America says that "...the light is only supposed to light up when there is a problem with the cruise control operation" They claim there is a misprint in the manual. Is this a lie or what?
I cannot get my 6 cd changer to play ALL disks randomly. It will only play one disk at a time randomly. Any thoughts? I followed the instructions in the radio manual.
I use my cruise control all the time and don't have a light go on, I didn't know there was a cc light. Oh well, I am usually aware when I am using it.
My CD player mixes all 6 disks, but it will mix about 6 songs from a single disk before it moves on. I have heard that this is because of the VERY long time lapse when the machine swiches disks.
I have a 99 Passat GLS, which I bought in January. For a number of months I have had loud squeaking (like old bed springs) coming from the front end. The dealer has looked at it more than once and recently replaced both control arms. This did absolutely nothing and the car still makes the same noise. Has anyone had a similar problem?
I also have a distorted windshield. I would like to know the outcome from the person who reported it to the dealer.
Only one problem:
When the car was new (purchased 3/99) it made a "groaning" noise under light acceleration at about 8 mph. Dealer fixed it the second time. It was some valve in the turbo unit.
Been very happy with the car. It's far more quality and performance than the 96 Jetta I had.
my windshield is fine but there was a technical service bulletin on tech.vw.com about a dealer survey of broken windshields. from what ive heard this is a common problem with passats and audi a4s. maybe a structural problem putting stress on the glass.
My 99 GLS developed a groaning noise in the front end around 10K. Noise audible only on very smooth pavement, and around speeds 25 and 35 MPH. Problem was isolated to be the wheel bearings. Several trips to dealer and finally both front have been replaced. Has anyone else experienced this problem?
An odor has developed in my GLS sedan, with cloth interior. Bought the car in April 1998. Back then, it smelled great. Now, since June of this year, a chemical or mildew odor permeates...which is worse now than in June. Yup, just a 10 minute ride to work will guarantee that you carry that odor on your clothing. The local dealer here in East Rochester NY checked it out...looking for a clogged a/c duct...it was not clogged. Short of tearing out the carpeting and replacing, the dealer said I may have this odor till the day I trade it in. But then, who would want a car that smells like mildew? To my knowledge, nothing was ever spilled inside the VW, and I am the only driver. Anyone else have or have had this problem?
Thanks for your responses. I am getting the warped windshield replaced today. If you are still under warranty I would recommend you do the same. I'll ask if they have heard of this possible structural stress problem.
Well, I bought one this afternoon--GLS V-6 with luxury, leather, and weather pkg and CD changer--w/tax and title $26,438. The fabulous Nepria (?) blue. Thanks to all of you, I checked out windshield, had a detailed conversation with service manager, asked a zillion questions and made the buy for $827 (3.4%) over invoice. Rest assured if I run into any problems, you'll be among the first to know!
Just throw in my 2 cents since I had dealt with 2 lemons before :<.
In CA, there is a Lemon law. Try to research that out. In one of my case (a Mercury van), I managed to satisfy the lemon law, and get almost a full refund of the van. The law states that: - if the car has been under repair 3-4 times for the same problem without success' - has stayed in the shop for at least 30 days during the first year. Then you are entitled for some lemon law arbitration. To satisfied the lemon law, I sent my van to different dealers for repair. This lemon law route takes a lot out of you, and requires very good book keeping.
The other lemons I had(involved Honda Accord :>) was a horrible experience. The car would stall at anytime on a freeway. However, I was not aware of the lemon law. So I sold the car back to another Honda dealer at a loss.
Any rate, I got a new MAX 2K after reading the Passat forum. But MAX 2K is not free of problem (I just got one, hopefully is minor). To see more MAX 2K problems, go to deja.com.
Good luck to you all - we all need peace of mind and fun right :>
I am looking at a Passat, probably the 2000GLS perhaps the GLX. I want AWD, was considering A4 w/quattro but too small. I read in reviews that the Passat has Traction Control. Is this true? This will give me 2 gripping tires when I'm trying to get out of my driveway.
Also, synchro AWD is supposed to be available on the V6GLS and GLX in 2000. I called the dealer and he said this will be available in Europe only. Any news on this? If I could find a GLX with AWD, I will buy this afternoon...
Was to be delivered last year and then this year. Obviously, since there are 2000's out now, it won't be out this year. Perhaps a mid-year entry or 2001. You can always call Volkswagen of America. I'd trust them over a dealer as the dealer will always say whatever he thinks will get you into a car today. Also front wheel drive with traction control in the snow is pretty damn good in the snow.
Im thinking of buying a new 99 Passat GLS and am very very excited about it.. But after reading all the post here im very confused.. With the 2/24 b2b and with so many problems pointed out by passat owners in this group i think i need to look back at my decision of owning a passat .. Can anyone give me more guidance whether i should or should not take the plunge...
I want to know what the windshield problem people have been encountering. Few days back, I heard wind sound in the car. I checked all the windows and sunroof and everything was shut tight. I opened and closed everything again but the sound was there. Can it be the windshield problem people have written? Although it's fun to drive Passat, but I have been observing occasional problems. Like once the front speakers stoppped functioning. I turned off and on again and they came back to life. On another occasion, I heard some 'fat-fat' like sound somewhere from my front-right side (may be tires). Asked my friend to see if something sticking on tire, but nothing. Kept wondering what was that sound. Also anyone can throw light on how long does VW Club takes for new membership? It's couple of weeks, already charged my credit card, but have heard nothing from them yet. Wrote one mail, but no response.
about your front end noise.......I assume you here the squeaking when the car is parked? If so, it's most likely your emergency brake. Pull the emg. brake harder, or don't engage it at all, and then see if you still get that "creaky bed spring" noise. Took me forever to figure it out!
Well...if you take only what you read here at Edmund's, then you are only getting a VERY small sampling of Passat owners. keep in mind that this is a CONSUMER site that is primarily dedicated to getting good prices and talking about problems. Therefore, you are unlikely to find a lot of topics called "My Passat is Flawless". You should check out an ENTHUSIAST site like www.vwvortex.com and try to talk to some real Passat owners on the street to get a less skewed opinion. The Passat is almost univercelly praised by the automotive press asthe best car in it's class, even CR rates it as the best car in it's class(over long-time winner Camry).
My 99 GLS 1.8T, 5spd manual has been FLAWLESS for over 10,000 miles. Yes, some people have had some problems and reported them here, but, again, this is a VERY SMALL sampling and you need recognize that. Also, EVERY car has problems, even Hondas and Toyotas, so you will always have SOME chance of problems.
I agree the 2/24 b2b is short, but the Powertrain warrrenty is extensive and covers everything from the water pump to the turbo(over 90 different items), so I don't sweat it.
example-- On a Honda, you would get a 3/36 b2b, and an equal powertrain, so if you need to replace that water pump on an Accord at 90k miles, you will pay out of pocket, VW will replace mine for free.
I read all about VW's past bad rep for electrical problems, but when I went out to get my own data, by talking to diffferent mechanics, friends and collegues, I honestly couldn't substanciate those claims. I found that old VW's have a rep for being long-lasting, fun to drive cars with very few problems. Parts costs are on-par with those of Hondas and Toyotas, and there is a HUGE aftermarket for performance parts, add-ons, etc.
I owned 2 not-quite-flawless Hondas before my Passat so I researched this purchase TO DEATH and found that the Passat offered the best blend of comfort, performance, style, and quality for my money for me. You will need to decide for yourself if the Passat is right for you, just don't let a bunch of anonymous internet posters decide for you, do your own research and decide for yourself. The new Passat is 60% Audi A4 and feels it, I think it is a great car.
Thanx for all the info.. i appreciate it.. any info on what i should be approx paying for a fully loaded 99 passat GLS 5 speed auto with leather seats ? i mean what should be a good deal ?
I've got a '99 VW Passat (currently 7,000 miles) which has had NUMEROUS problems in just 6 months of ownership, the most recent being a windshield which cracked on its own. I think there's a trend here, but VW refuses to pay. In my experience, the company does not stand behind its products and their customer service policies are abhorrent. Knowing the trouble I've had in getting clearly warranty-related problems covered, I'm afraid to think what I'll be up against when the measly 2yr/24K warranty expires. As a result, I would never recommend any VW product.
I had the same concerns on the Jetta. I looked at every posting and determined that 70% of the responses were very favorable. Some negative responses were for minor problems. Note that it is top rated by Consumers Report.
You should not pay more then $500.00 over invoice on any pasat except for the GLX.
Use the tools here at Edmund's to figure out the exact nvoice price of your car, take this data with you to the dealer and ask for YOUR price, if you don't get it, try another dealer.
You are also ALWAYS better off to try and deal on something on the lot if you can find what you want.
Compute a fair price based on Edmund's formula. Take the price to a dealer and state what you want and get the dealer's price FIRST. Then state what you want to pay, but state a price a bit lower, of course. If the dealer does not met your price say thank you and walk out the door and go to a couple other dealers. Buy from the dealer with the lowest price.
This is exactly what I did why buying my 2000 Jetta. My deal took 10 minutes. However I computed a fair price based on 5% profit on dealer cost as opposed to the 3% Edmunds recommends. I thought 3% was low.
The Passat may be more in demand now that Consumers Reports rated it so high. This will raise your cost.
If you are in NJ go to Three County VW. I had no problems with them.
If your wondering why buy the passat instead of the Audi A4, its simple the A4 has very limited rear seat leg room. If you don't care about that then buy the A4. It has better performance with the turbo 4 (2wh dr)because its lighter. But if you need or want rear leg room you have to go with the passat. Same can be said about the 3 series BMW no rear seat leg room. the Audi A6 and the 5 series BMW is out of (my)price range.
99 GLS 1.8 T/Lux Package/CD changer in the absolutely gorgeous Bright Green. $580 over cost seemed fair.
2000 Passats are slightly pricer (dealer cost), come pre-packaged with Monsoon ($295) and discounted changer ($250 list), add ASR (hi-speed traction control) to 4 cyls, other minor adds/deletes.
THIS IS A WONDERFUL CAR--My second Vdub (85 Jetta) with approx 17+ years of Hondas and Toyotas in the family mix. My take was that quietness, ride, handling, packaging (standard 'options' such as trip computer, alarm system, competent sound system, and assorted bells and whistles), and 4-cyl economy with V6 power blew another Camry off the list. Hopefully, my enthusiasm will outlast the 100k plus I got from the last one...this beauty is well made and exceeds the initial build quality of my previous Toyota.
Comments
Until MY Passat lets me down, I see no reason to worry about it.
RE: Price vs. BMW---Yes, a top ofthe line GLX is near 3-series $$$ levels, but I have a "base" GLS 1.8T that cost me less then $20k. I think the "base" level Passat is the real value leader and the upper level Passats are treading into a different price class of auto. It all comes down to personal choise. If I could spring for a $30k car, I would probably look Bimmer too, not GLX Passat.
I hope you find what you are looking for in the TL, it is an EXCELLENT car.
I think I'll start looking at the A4's and Volov S40s now. As much as I LOVE the exterior and interior of the Passat GLXs, I'm frightened about all of the troubles people are having with them. People keep saying that it's a great car that is built on the Audi frame, why not just get an Audi?
i see you have the turbo as opposed to the 6, which i would "perceive" as an even riskier move, but you are right about the price. i could go get a gls 4 for 350 over invoice tonight. i just wish that damn v6 wasn't such a premium. it make the bmw arguement that much easier.
enjoy your car...
by the way, i'm NOT considering the TL.
a) Due to the recent surge in VW sales in the US, coupled with the relatively low skill level of dealer service technicians, expect normal maintenance repairs to take longer than ususal and potential mis-diagnosing of problems.
b. The jury is still out on the new Passat's reliability. Performance and value are not an issue as much as the car's long term reliability vs. other cars in its class(Maxima, Camry, Accord).
c. The general feeling among Passat owners is that it's performance and driving experience overides the current problems that exists today with the car -- which are tolerable.
I currently own a 90 Maxima that has never given me any real problems. If anyone can provide me more information on the Passat to suggest that I am either paranoid or have been "brainwashed" by the powers that be, I would really appreciate it. I really like the car, but am sceptical. Should I wait a few years to get some real solid reliability data, or should I take the plunge???
The best bet would be to approach as many people as you can that already drive new Passats. This happens to me all the time, people come up at gas stations, in parkng lot, etc and ask what I think of the car.
Well, I LOVE mine, 10k flawless miles and counting.
Dealers ARE clueless, unless you find a good one(I think I may have), but remember that all non-warrenty work can be done by someone else. After my "free" service is over, I will do most of the regular maintanance myself (oil changes, fluid checks) and have my local Euro-Garage and Tire place do anything I don't have the training or equipment to do (tires, brakes, etc.) After 24k miles, the dealer will only see me if I am ordering parts or getting warrenty stuff fixed.
A side note...My friend bought a 98 Grand Am brand new(not my personal favorite car, but he LOVES it) at 50k miles, he had to replace the water pump and it cost almost $700.00 out of pocket. VW's 10/100k Powertrain warrenty would have covered that.
I am sure there are LOTS of happy automatic, 4cyl drivers out there though, it all depends on what is "enough power" to YOU.
For what it's worth, EVERY 4cyl I have ever dirven with an automatic tranny has been sluggish.
the new max styling is bordering on ugly (just my opinion) so it was off my list right away. if the new maxima looked liked a passat, i'd be the PAXIMA SE, right now.
you've the same concerns that i do and for me it's more than just internet hearsay...
i can't recommend what to do as i am in the same pickle as you are. i like it, but i'm skeptical of car's reliability (and future costs i'll incur), vw dealers and vw's support, crummy b2b warranty, price of glx nearing 30k (ouch).
So if you can't afford or don't want the V6 and you don't want a manual - compare the Passat to other 4's (with Auto's) and make your own assessment.
Good Motoring!
One strange anomoly with the car is it seems to build up a significant static charge on dry days, and there is a strange suction effect felt by my ear drumbs if I only have 1 window or just the sunroof open. The blue instrament lighting was a bit of a surprise, but it grew on me..
Anybody else have this problem? Anybody know if the act of windshield replacement will compromise the sound-proofness of my new car?
The so-called "reliability gurus" at Honda give you a 3/36 Powertrain warrenty. Not exactly standing by the product in my opinion.
This means that, at say...50k miles, I might have to replace a piece of trim or a broken radio knob, but if my water pump goes, VW fixes it for FREE, in a Honda it will set you back over $500 bucks. Frankly, I will take a VERY long warrenty that covers the big, expensive stuff over an extra year of b2b. In ANY car, the instance of repairs in the first 3 years are VERY low, so I don't think 1 less year of b2b will make much difference to the average driver. I'll drive about 36k miles in 2 years anyway, so it was nearly a non-issue for me, whereas the 10/100k Powertrain warrenty is something I may rely on in the future.
All that said, I agree that VW should lengthen the b2b to the industry standard of 3/36, just to ease potential buyers' minds.
http://wellengaged.com/engaged/edmund.cgi?&f=0&c=Sedans&t=2597&q=*
with the 1.8 turbo. Traded a Crown Vic in. Should of kept it,the best car I ever owned..
Since we got it I've had it back to the garage to get the licence plate lights repairs but they took an hour and a half to fix as they built it without any ends on the wire so to fix it you have to remove the inside liner on the back door and door
lack. Next problem was the Valve cover gasket was leaking and they installed a new gasket but this time they used gasket glue as they should have done in the factory. Problem fixed.
Oil leak in the power steering hose Clamps are not heavy enough to clamp the hose tight enough so as not to leak, installed a regular type hose clamp and that was fixed.
Snapping noise in the steering wheel when you turn the wheel 180 degrees. The clamp next to the unverisal joint
At 21000 Kilometers or 13000 miles I started hearing a noise in the engine when I let up on the gas and the car was between coasting and starting to pull.
It sounded like a small $ 20.00 air compressor running. Took it into the Gararge and had the Shop foreman go for a ride. He said: I hear it but I don't know what it is. So in Sept. I drove it to Rode Island and back and by that time it was getting worse. So back to the Dealer I go. I said to the shop foreman you got to go for another test
drive. This time he heard it and this time we all came to the same conclusion! Piston Slap.
They pulled the engine down and # 4 piston and # 1 piston could be rocked back and forth in the cylinder wall. So they called the area Rep. and he said FIX IT. So as we speak there is another brand new engine on it's way from Germany.
But my question now is how long will that one last?? Another 31000 kilometers. How many of these engines were made with .001 over spec.cylinders?
I have to say I have been treated very good at the dealer where I go and they don't try to cover anything up their honest or I'll say the mechanics are as I go right out back and watch them as they work on it weather I'm allowed or not! It's my car.
They did say oh you'll get 40 miles to a gallon
I get 30 to 32 miles to the gallon.
I see where somebody wrote in saying they use 87 octane. these engines are high performance and to put 87 octane in them will foul them up and cause grief like you would not want.. Heh! gas is cheap compared to a new engine if it will run that long on it's own.
I would like to hear if anyone else has had this trouble with the engine as we have.
Right now the dealer has given me a Pontiac Grand Am to drive around in until they get it fixed.
Dave.
I see your point on the 10yr/100K powertrain warranty with reference to the 2yr/24K B2B. What I think is happening is that a perception of VW's reliability is being built around this short, NY minute B2B. I notice that the Beetle and Jetta do not have nearly as many complaints about them, is there a conspiracy goinfg on here?
My CD player mixes all 6 disks, but it will mix about 6 songs from a single disk before it moves on. I have heard that this is because of the VERY long time lapse when the machine swiches disks.
For a number of months I have had loud squeaking
(like old bed springs) coming from the front end.
The dealer has looked at it more than once and
recently replaced both control arms. This did
absolutely nothing and the car still makes the
same noise. Has anyone had a similar problem?
I also have a distorted windshield. I would like to know the outcome from the person who reported it to the dealer.
Only one problem:
When the car was new (purchased 3/99) it made a "groaning" noise under light acceleration at about 8 mph. Dealer fixed it the second time. It was some valve in the turbo unit.
Been very happy with the car. It's far more quality and performance than the 96 Jetta I had.
Does anyone know if there is a way to convert
that into kilometers, Centigrade, 24 hr clock.
I think the Canadian version uses those
more "European settings"
cheers VJS
my GLS sedan, with cloth
interior. Bought the car
in April 1998. Back then,
it smelled great. Now,
since June of this year,
a chemical or mildew odor
permeates...which is worse
now than in June.
Yup, just a 10 minute ride
to work will guarantee that
you carry that odor on your
clothing.
The local dealer here in
East Rochester NY checked
it out...looking for a
clogged a/c duct...it was
not clogged. Short of
tearing out the carpeting
and replacing, the dealer
said I may have this odor
till the day I trade it in.
But then, who would want
a car that smells like
mildew?
To my knowledge, nothing
was ever spilled inside the
VW, and I am the only
driver.
Anyone else have or have
had this problem?
I would get the interior shampooed.
Do you have kids? They are notorious for HIDING smelly stuff.
Just throw in my 2 cents since I had dealt with 2 lemons before :<.
In CA, there is a Lemon law. Try to research that out. In one of my case (a Mercury van), I managed to satisfy the lemon law, and get almost a full refund of the van. The law states that:
- if the car has been under repair 3-4 times for the same problem without success'
- has stayed in the shop for at least 30 days during the first year.
Then you are entitled for some lemon law arbitration. To satisfied the lemon law, I sent my van to different dealers for repair. This lemon law route takes a lot out of you, and requires very good book keeping.
The other lemons I had(involved Honda Accord :>) was a horrible experience. The car would stall at anytime on a freeway. However, I was not aware of the lemon law. So I sold the car back to another Honda dealer at a loss.
Any rate, I got a new MAX 2K after reading the Passat forum. But MAX 2K is not free of problem (I just got one, hopefully is minor). To see more MAX 2K problems, go to deja.com.
Good luck to you all - we all need peace of mind and fun right :>
Also, synchro AWD is supposed to be available on the V6GLS and GLX in 2000. I called the dealer and he said this will be available in Europe only. Any news on this? If I could find a GLX with AWD, I will buy this afternoon...
thanx
Manish
Few days back, I heard wind sound in the car. I checked all the windows and sunroof and everything was shut tight. I opened and closed everything again but the sound was there. Can it be the windshield problem people have written?
Although it's fun to drive Passat, but I have been observing occasional problems. Like once the front speakers stoppped functioning. I turned off and on again and they came back to life.
On another occasion, I heard some 'fat-fat' like sound somewhere from my front-right side (may be tires). Asked my friend to see if something sticking on tire, but nothing. Kept wondering what was that sound.
Also anyone can throw light on how long does VW Club takes for new membership? It's couple of weeks, already charged my credit card, but have heard nothing from them yet. Wrote one mail, but no response.
My 99 GLS 1.8T, 5spd manual has been FLAWLESS for over 10,000 miles. Yes, some people have had some problems and reported them here, but, again, this is a VERY SMALL sampling and you need recognize that. Also, EVERY car has problems, even Hondas and Toyotas, so you will always have SOME chance of problems.
I agree the 2/24 b2b is short, but the Powertrain warrrenty is extensive and covers everything from the water pump to the turbo(over 90 different items), so I don't sweat it.
example--
On a Honda, you would get a 3/36 b2b, and an equal powertrain, so if you need to replace that water pump on an Accord at 90k miles, you will pay out of pocket, VW will replace mine for free.
I read all about VW's past bad rep for electrical problems, but when I went out to get my own data, by talking to diffferent mechanics, friends and collegues, I honestly couldn't substanciate those claims. I found that old VW's have a rep for being long-lasting, fun to drive cars with very few problems. Parts costs are on-par with those of Hondas and Toyotas, and there is a HUGE aftermarket for performance parts, add-ons, etc.
I owned 2 not-quite-flawless Hondas before my Passat so I researched this purchase TO DEATH and found that the Passat offered the best blend of comfort, performance, style, and quality for my money for me. You will need to decide for yourself if the Passat is right for you, just don't let a bunch of anonymous internet posters decide for you, do your own research and decide for yourself. The new Passat is 60% Audi A4 and feels it, I think it is a great car.
Good luck,
Dave
any info on what i should be approx paying for a fully loaded 99 passat GLS 5 speed auto with leather seats ? i mean what should be a good deal ?
Thanx
Manish
Use the tools here at Edmund's to figure out the exact nvoice price of your car, take this data with you to the dealer and ask for YOUR price, if you don't get it, try another dealer.
You are also ALWAYS better off to try and deal on something on the lot if you can find what you want.
This is exactly what I did why buying my 2000 Jetta. My deal took 10 minutes. However I computed a fair price based on 5% profit on dealer cost as opposed to the 3% Edmunds recommends. I thought 3% was low.
The Passat may be more in demand now that Consumers Reports rated it so high. This will raise your cost.
If you are in NJ go to Three County VW. I had no problems with them.
2000 Passats are slightly pricer (dealer cost), come pre-packaged with Monsoon ($295) and discounted changer ($250 list), add ASR (hi-speed traction control) to 4 cyls, other minor adds/deletes.
THIS IS A WONDERFUL CAR--My second Vdub (85 Jetta) with approx 17+ years of Hondas and Toyotas in the family mix. My take was that quietness, ride, handling, packaging (standard 'options' such as trip computer, alarm system, competent sound system, and assorted bells and whistles), and 4-cyl economy with V6 power blew another Camry off the list. Hopefully, my enthusiasm will outlast the 100k plus I got from the last one...this beauty is well made and exceeds the initial build quality of my previous Toyota.
Drivers wanted.
Thanx for all the info..
Manish