1998 Volkswagen Passat TDI SE review from UK and Ireland

- Water pump seals leak. Needs replacement. Most economic to change timing belt at same time.

- Substandard suspension components failed. Required new suspension arms at front.

- Required new suspension bushings all round.

- Poor quality indicator flasher unit failed. Vibration from the dash caused electrical contacts inside to loosen and wear.

- Water leaks into engine bay

- Dashboard rattles and makes noises.

- Air conditioning behaves inconsistently - doesn't always switch on particularly at low engine revs (?)

- Brake discs needed replacement at 40000 miles (although this is probably to be expected)

Nice turbodiesel engine. Very economic.

The build quality of this car is however totally inexcusable. It will be the last VW that I ever buy. The dealers charge ridiculous rates for labour to fix problems that are of VW's making.

The suspension design is fundementally flawed, and will be subject to repeated failure and premature wear for the life of this vehicle.

The quality of the electrics, and some of the mechanical parts is highly suspect. There is a feeling of cheapness on close examination of some engine parts. VW engine parts are generally not repairable. The whole part is removed and replaced.

The ride quality is comfortable, and the diesel engine is very economic, but the vehicle.