1998 Volkswagen Passat GLS review from North America
"Drives great, extremely unreliable"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Clutch went out at 45,000 miles.
Coolant tank needed a replacement at 25,000 miles.
Thermostat needed a replacement at 60,000 miles.
Vents did not work on delivery.
Sun-roof needed a replacement at 60,000 miles.
Trunk latch needed a replacement at 55,000 miles.
Trunk light needed a replacement at 40,000 miles.
Car does not start intermittently, especially in hot weather.
Vacuum hoses cracked at 55,000 miles, causing the "Check Engine" light to come on.
General comments?
Although the car handles and looks great, it has been horrible in terms of reliability. I have had to replace many components, and the car only has 65,000 miles on it.
I am planning on trading it in for a Honda.
Recommended Reviews:
  | What will go wrong today? |
| Great on fuel, but not terribly comfortable with lots of repairs, just like a North American car |
All 1998 Volkswagen Passat reviews
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2001 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8 turbo Manual |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 3/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 2/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 65000 miles |
| Previous car | Toyota Tercel |
| Date of Entry | 30th April, 2001 |