1997 Volkswagen Passat GLX review from North America
"I feel this car is not only a costly mess to own, but that it is also extremely unsafe"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Everything has gone wrong with this vehicle. It is currently at the mechanics as I type this.
At 65,000 miles:
The A/C stopped blowing cold air.
The brake light was on continuously.
The check engine light began going on and off daily.
At 75,000 miles the rear breaks began malfunctioning resulting in almost $1000 in repairs.
There are numerous squeaks and rubbing noises coming from the car that the dealer has not been able to fix.
General comments?
Between 65,000 and 75,000 miles this car has had approx. $6000 worth of repairs.
Not only is the car expensive to own because of the repairs, but it is also a gas guzzler, and simple maintenance items such as oil changes are a production. I feel that the vehicle is the most unsafe and unreliable sedan on the road. After becoming a Volkswagen owner, I don't recommend that anyone buy one.
Also, before purchasing a VW, I recommend that you contact your insurance agent, your rates for collision and comprehensive coverage will go sky high!
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  | What will go wrong today? |
| Great on fuel, but not terribly comfortable with lots of repairs, just like a North American car |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | VR6 Manual |
| Performance marks | 5/10 |
| Reliability marks | 0/10 |
| Comfort marks | 4/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 0/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 0/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 65000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 77000 miles |
| Previous car | Saturn SL |
| Date of Entry | 8th January, 2003 |