10.0

really awful
Crashes / Fires:
0 / 0
Injuries / Deaths:
1 / 0
Average Mileage:
44,750 miles

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problem #2

Feb 012010

Passat

  • 89,500 miles
I was filling up my windshield washer fluid and was trying to put the cap back on my 2002 Passat when the hood strut failed and the hood crashed down on my forearm, pinning my arm between the hood and car frame. I screamed out both in pain and not being able to pull my arm free and had someone rush over to me within seconds. However, the hood latch had engaged but would not release since the hood was not closed all the way, my arm blocking this from happening. The first gentleman tried to alleve the pressure on my arm, which had already started going numb, while he called out for someone else to come and help and bring a heavy metal bar to pry me out. The second gentleman came with a large wrench and was able to bend the frame enough for me to pull my arm out. Major indent of my forearm had me make an emergency room visit. Xrays showed nothing was broken though 1 week later I am still swollen and sore. About $1900 body damage to car, as well as at least $250 medical. My mechanic never had an issue with the hood strut, so this incident came as a total surprise to him. He has ordered a replacement strut to be installed tommorow.

- Aspen, CO, USA

problem #1

Mar 052002

Passat 4-cyl

  • miles
There were numerous problems with this vehicle. The filter and carpet on the back passenger side was replaced. The mlp light had come on and the dealer installed a new vacuum hose. The radio did not work, standing water was found in the back right side of the vehicle under the front seat, the pollen filter was clogged and the air pollen filter was cracked due to the factory, the back door locks refused to open and could not be opened from the inside or out, a bumping noise was heard coming from under the vehicle, the engine revved, the vehicle lurched forward and accelerated at rapid speed all while the brakes were pumped with no response. The vehicle hit a curb doing over 50 mph all while pumping the brakes until it finally stopped 20-30 yards into a field damaging tires, rims and the bumper.

- Columbia, SC, USA