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

Water leakage in 2002 Passat 1.8T gls. After rain, water seeped in through faulty pollen filter housing. Fried engine cluster. After being returned, water continued to seep in. It corroded electrical wires and caused many problems. After 5+ dealer visits, no one was able to fix it until I personally stripped all carpeting and found the faulty wire. Dealer had told me filter housing was susceptible to water leakage, and yet he did no fix it...

- Fairfield, CT, USA

: the contact stated the cowling drainage became filled will debris causing water to enter the transmission module. The vehicle lost partial power. The vehicle was towed to a dealership. The dealership cleaned the cowling drains, repaired the wiring and battery. Additionally, the brake booster, the transmission module and the carpeting were replaced.

- Fairfield, CT, USA