Flashing engine lamp/mil light, violent shaking, loss of engine power, foul odor, misfiring, pinging.

- South Gate, CA, USA

2004 VW Passat---I have had numerous occasions where my car lurched and rattled to a stop or would hesitate multiple times during acceleration. At idle, the entire car shakes. I have taken it in to the dealer at least 5 times. At first, the problem was only happening every month or so. Now it is a constant problem. The check engine light is on, the car shakes in drive, reverse, and neutral. Acceleration is especially a problem when on the freeway...it is both dangerous and scary. I have been told multiple times that the dealer is "waiting for a software update." I have also been told to go ahead and drive the car because it is not dangerous. Now I have been waiting for months! I also have had electrical problems. On several occasions the red control panel lights have gone out completely while I was driving. I was told this is part of the same problem.

- Elk Grove, CA, USA

Water coming into front passenger seat resulting in damages to the tcm (transmission control module), wet carpeting, and rust under the passenger seat. The transmission module failure resulted in vehicle not able to shift into higher gear, and delay acceleration. The tcm and carpeting was replaced.

- Millwood, NY, USA

Reported when slowing down to 5-10mph care hesitated and then jerked as if someone hit from behind, also when braking to stop, car lurches forward. VW dealership replaced brakes and rotors and did software update after 3 times in shop. Now car hesitates when either slowing down or from stop then kicks in all of a sudden, will be calling regional technician to report, still feel slight jerk at slow speeds. All happens when engine hot or cold.

- Morgantown, WV, USA