I haven't really had any of the small annoying issues with my car. I have had one issue with the transmission shifting awkwardly. Sometimes when I am driving around 50 mph and I press the gas pedal down to accelerate to pass, the car will almost bump and hiccup once during the process of passing. No engine light has come on, so I am just leaving it alone. I know how sensitive Volkswagen computer systems can be. But in general, the transmission takes some getting used to. It is a bit rougher than other cars because of the turbocharger that kicks in at the most inopportune times. If you have any ideas about my transmission jerking a bit, leave a comment. I appreciate it.
I love Volkswagen products despite their issues that all VW's do have. German cars in general drive much smoother and more like a drivers car. A lot of people do not understand that they must follow the manufacturers recommended maintenance schedule for their VW. Volkswagens do require higher maintenance than Japanese cars, but it is well worth it to me. The quality of the interior trim and materials they chose to use in the Passat are far higher grade than comparably priced cars in it's class.
Your transmission has a jolt because its downshifting to the third gear when you get on the gas. Therefore there is a jump in the RPMs and then, your turbo has probably started to spool up and then that provides boost giving it another kick of power.
The turbo usually spools around 3000 rpms so if you keep going back and forth past 3000rpms, the turbo will keep kicking in and out.
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