1991 Volkswagen Passat GL review from North America

Replaced timing belt upon purchase. $300.

CV Boots replaced at purchase. $250.

Blew the alternator from my stereo. $300.

Fuel Filter at 176000. $100.

Rear Muffler (this car has 3). $250.

Ignition Switch, failed at 178000, began working at 188000 (I really don't know why)

Radiator hose at 188000, overheated on the highway, no damage luckily. $45.

Lost the heater core with the rad hose, in excess of $700 (!) to replace so I had the mechanic bypass. Most heater cores are found under the entire front dash, and it is a 6+ hour job which is why the high cost. I'm going to attempt to do this myself this summer.

Emergency brake cables seized, only the left cable works.

Rear brakes totally redone, new calipers, rotors and brake pads. $400 in parts, did the work myself.

Power driver side mirror stopped working at 188500, began working again yesterday at 18900.

Driver side mirror itself rusted from behind the glass, only half the mirror is use able.

Rear right passenger window motor no longer works, stopped at 174000. Motor appears to be between both pieces of steel when I attempted repair.

This car sure is nice to look at, however is quite an under performer. The 4 cylinder engine produces 138hp, and was originally built for the 1990 golf. Considering this is a 4 door sedan, performance is very poor with 4 adults.

The auto transmission shifts quite rough when in economy mode, is better (but not perfect) in sport mode, but uses more gas.

Steering is a little heavy however very precise. Suspension is tight, and with the stock rims/low profile tires handles very very well. Quite fun to drive _down_ (not up!) long twisty roads. If this car had a bigger engine it would be a blast to drive.

Also, most people won't notice, but a lot of things vibrate with my subs turned up loud. I used some 2" thick foam and crammed it anywhere I could to stop the rattles.