1995 Volkswagen Passat GLX VR6 review from North America

Lost both front main bearings at 55K.

At 70K the right front bearing shows excessive wear and needs replacment.

Since new the car has always run hot, i.e. two people, small load, California mountains, ext. temp 100F, (with the A/C off) 220F, (with the A/C on 235F). Thus, almost overheating. The vehicle was never able to produce cool air, or keep the external ambient temperature flow into the cabin.

Headlight's performance is circa 1930. Dim and unsafe.

All the above are described "as within performance guidelines" by VW.

Front handles have loose pins, unable to open the door from the outside (both, or all?).

Power window collapses at 40K, requires a regulator change.

V6 has a 4 cylinder performance.

Speedometer ceases to work at 50K.

Gunk constantly crawls out of the body making it almost impossible to keep the car clean.

Plastic interior parts break and fail.

It is understanble to experience mechanical problems, however VW has no service presence within the USA. VW of North America relies for technical issues on mechanics within its dealer network. Many of them do not speak English.

VW corporate customer service comprises of admitedly non-technical telemarketer type young girls, who are specially trained to say "no" and produce further revenue by directing you back to the very service you experienced a problem with. Thus, not just a lack of assistance, but further increase of your dissatisfaction by having to use AGAIN the problem service facility.

Terror-like haggling methods used by VW USA in case of your further persistance. VW of North America shows no interest in assisting customers, is oblivious to addressing safety issues and has up front people who are detrimental to an image and future marketplace of any product.

In contrast, via long time experience, BMW are a dream, especially in customer/technical and other assistance. My practical advice is, avoid VW products, if you have one, sell it to prevent post warranty assistance. Always advise the State and Federal Governments of problems.