1999 Volkswagen Passat GLS review from North America
"Very good car, Volkswagen needs to increase their dependability"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Arrived with bad manual transmission. Made grinding noise at highway speed. Bought on Internet new, but local dealer replaced transmission as part of warranty.
Trunk light does not work and alarm resets itself unless a door is opened when using trunk.
Check engine light just came on, dealer says it's the purge thing (filter?)...$200 incl labor, not bad.
General comments?
I've had this car for five years and it's been a very good car. Great acceleration because it's had it's CPU upgraded to 200hp.
Chipped the engine cpu to gain a further 50hp (150hp --> ~200hp) for ~$400.
Amazing braking power, stock.
Although more maintenance is required than a Honda or Toyota, I feel Volkswagen makes a more drivable car. Equivalent Honda and Toyota sedans are boring, but may be more dependable.
Recommended Reviews:
  | Like German pastry - good to look at but no substance |
| Costs a lot, but it's worth every penny you spend |
All 1999 Volkswagen Passat reviews
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 1999 |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8T Manual |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 6/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 50 miles |
| Most recent distance | 71000 miles |
| Previous car | Toyota Celica |
| Date of Entry | 29th September, 2004 |