2001 Volkswagen Passat GLS review from North America
"Adore the car, but am convinced of VW's faulty engineering"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Rear brake pads and rotors replaced at 3 months old (dealer.
All four engine coils replaced per unofficial recall.
Front center console lost power, needed a new spark plug.
Throttle body became clogged with dirt, causing near engine failure when idle at stoplights at 50,000 miles.
Bottom panel came loose while driving on the highway, but did not fall all the way off (all, but 1 bolt fell off)
Had sliced vacuum hose at 55,500 miles.
The engine spit out a spark plug at 60,000 miles.
Had a cracked wheel at 60,000 miles.
Just had rear brake pads replaced at 60,000 miles, and am going to have to take the car in for full rear rotor repair (have never had front pads replaced)
Emergency brake handle is starting to peel, which is odd, because I touch it maybe 4 times a day.
General comments?
I am in love with my car. When I first bought it, the turbo engine performed beyond expectations. The Monsoon stereo system is excellent, and I relished the heated seats in cold winters.
However, the unexpected repairs are mounting in expense and I don't think I should have to repair the brakes this many times over the life of any car.
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| Fantastic, comfortable and yet reliable |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Model Year | 2001 |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8L turbo Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 10/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 62500 miles |
| Date of Entry | 9th May, 2005 |