The contact owned a 2001 Volkswagen Passat. While driving at speeds of less than 65 mph she smelled gas. She was able to continue driving while fuel was escaping from the fuel line. The insurance company would not tow the vehicle and stated that she needed approval from the fire marshall. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic which replaced the fuel line for $700. The failure and current mileages were less than 40,000. Updated 01/14/09. Updated 01/21/09.

- St Paul, MN, USA

Fuel line on firewall cracked and spraying fuel over engine

- Claremore, OK, USA

Strong smell of gas emanating from engine compartment and into cabin through heating system, drove to VW dealer, who told me I was lucky the car did not explode, the fuel line was leaking directly onto the catalytic converter, which heats to 1000 degrees. The dealership replaced the fuel line, although they charged a lot to do so.

- Wayne, PA, USA

Failure of the fuel gas sender resulted in a sudden and complete loss of engine power when there was remaining gasoline in the fuel tank. Automobile was asending a steep grade on us 580 West bound toward livermore ca, in heavy traffic, outside temperature was 106 degrees F, fuel gauge registered 1/8 to 1/4 tank of fuel remaining. Car was towed to dealer and was able to restart by the dealer technician on level ground. The 1 3B0-919-673-S sender was replaced. Dublin VW repair ivoice number 268745. Dealer reported two other cars with a similar problem during the prior week.

- Thousand Oaks, CA, USA