2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS review from North America

Loved it for the first year. Rotors warped at 10k and all brakes/rotors were replaced under warranty. Rear brakes and rotors went again at 17k (3 weeks after dealer inspection). Rear brakes went again at 25k. Dealer said its normal wear. Front brakes went at 29k. Had lots of other issues with lousy dealer service. Had switched dealers after the 2nd brake issue, and they were out-right rude. 2nd dealer is polite, but never finds problems that should be covered under warranty. I bought this car with the intent to keep it until it would go no more. I purchased a 10year extended warranty. It now has 33,000 miles and I am very happy to be getting rid of it. Volkswagen customer service stinks. I am only happy that I have not encountered some of the major issues that occur frequently with Passats- sludge, turbo failure, interior flooding from clogged sunroof drains, seat fires from heated seats, etc.

It handles well, but the four cylinder is always reminding you of how hard it is working. The exterior design is beautiful, and the interior fit and finish looks like it would come from Mercedes or BMW. But beauty is skin deep and you get what you pay for. Unless Volkswagen can start producing some dependable vehicles and can improve the deplorable customer service, it will get few repeat buyers.