2.3

hardly worth mentioning
Crashes / Fires:
0 / 0
Injuries / Deaths:
0 / 0
Average Mileage:
68,115 miles

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problem #2

Jan 022008

Passat

  • Automatic transmission
  • 77,730 miles
I have a 2001 VW Passat, in the past month, my ABS warning light, and E-brake light, have been coming on randomly. The ABS light comes on and then the brake light flashes and beeps/rings for a few seconds. Half of the time the lights go out after a few seconds, sometimes the only way they go out is to stop, turn the car off and restart. And there are times when this doesn't work either. There have been suggestions by VW dealerships to replace ABS control module which is approx, $1350-1400. After researching this seems to be a problem that thousands of VW owners are experiencing with their vehicles. The replacement of control module has not corrected problem, neither has replacing ignition switch.

- Clayton, NC, USA

problem #1

Mar 312004

Passat 6-cyl

  • Manual transmission
  • 58,500 miles
2001.5 VW Passat glx 2.8lv6. Intermittent starting problem. Worse when cold outside. Turn key to start, no cranking, drls and dash lights dim (relay cutout during starter operation), but will not turn over. Left me stranded at home. Has almost left me stranded numerous times, sometimes in traffic! I am afraid to drive the car far from home (long trip). This is not right on a 2.5 year old car that has been well maintained. It is unsafe. I am so close to switching back to Japanese brand cars, though I love the interior and driving dynamics of my Passat. $1200 in repairs in two months for a starter and ignition lock/switch assembly. Works for a few days then the problem comes back! dealer says they have had several Passats with the same problem. This is not an isolated case. Today I was in line for my state emissions test and it woudl not start, took 5 minutes, blocking the test lane! my 1978 Lincoln is more dependable (but costs a fortune to drive with gas prices!).

- Laurel, MD, USA