2002 Volkswagen Passat GLX review from North America
"Watch out when you hit 50,000 miles"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
At 6,000 miles, in-Cabin air-filter seal leaked, sending gallons of rain water into the cabin. Ruined carpet, electrical harness, gear selection indicator, and more. One month in the shop to repair. Repair covered under warranty
At 48,000 miles, ECT sensor failed, sending engine to high temps, almost overheating. Repair covered under warranty.
At 52,500 miles (3 1/2 years old), heater core failed, taking the heater box with it. VW would not assist with repair since the warranty had expired a whole month earlier. Cost to repair $2000.
General comments?
The car is tight, and I like all the bells and whistles, but I am very turned off by VW's "inability" to assist me with the heater core repair. They could have had a loyal lifetime customer if they had stepped to the plate with some help, even if only some fraction of the total repair. Now, I think I'll be shopping at Acura or Lexus for my next car.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model year | 2002 |
| Year of manufacture | 2002 |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 5 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 52500 miles |
| Previous car | Plymouth Grand Voyager |
| Date of Entry | 7th March, 2006 |