1996 Volkswagen PASSAT-GLSVolkswagen Passat-gls 1996

Complaint Information: Recalls, Investigations, Consumer Complaints, Service Bulletins, Recall Investigations, OBD II Codes

NHTSA Mandated Recalls
  • Recall 192 [USA]: If such failures occur while the vehicle is in use at night or in rainy or snowy weather, a crash could occur.
    On certain passenger vehicles, the electrical portion of the ignition switch assembly can fail causing the headlights and windshield wipers to become inoperative.
    dealers will replace the electrical part of the ignition switch assembly. Owner notification began november 20, 2002. Owners should contact vwoa at 1-800-822-8987.
    customers can also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).

  • Recall 2002191 [Canada]: Electrical
    On certain vehicles, unfavourable production tolerances in ignition switch components and premature wear and tear may have contributed to the rate of malfunction of the switch. Correction: dealer will replace the ignition switch in affected vehicles with an improved switch.

  • Recall 2002239 [Canada]: Seats and restraints
    On certain vehicles equipped with seat heating units, the front seat back heaters may supply concentrated heat in a localized area of the seat back or produce excessive heat that could not be reduced by operating the seat heater controls except by switching off the controls completely. The concentrated heat could singe the fabric at the lower backrest and, in some instances, injure the seat occupant. Correction: dealers will affect repairs.

To ensure accuracy and for your safety, it is recommended to do a free VIN recall check here or here [USA] - UK - Canada.

Bulletins

Bulletins are notices put out by manufacturers in conjunction with the NHTSA to notify the public of manufacturing issues or changes.

  • TB001404 - EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL: Squeaks, rattles, noise, repair materials
  • TB001403 - FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE: Fuel additive to help prevent sporadic misfire faults
  • TT641402 - VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:REAR WINDOW:ELECTRICAL HEATING ELEMENT: To detect which line(s) is inoperative, utilize a volt meter to check for 0 v, which will be present after the open in the grid line. The check must be performed with the engine running and heated rear window switched on. Switch off the ign
  • 941403 - EXTERIOR LIGHTING: Exterior lights, moisture accumulation
  • 941402 - EXTERIOR LIGHTING: Exterior lights, moisture accumulation
  • 941401 - EXTERIOR LIGHTING: Exterior lights, moisture accumulation
  • TT230628 - SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC: For long crank/ difficulty starting with the engine hot: before replacing any components for this complaint, drain the fuel from the vehicle and replace with known good diesel fuel from a reputable source. If the complaint still exists, che
  • Airbag - AIR BAGS: Airbag issues.
  • V941901201152115 - EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL: Updated to include additional models and model year applicability.
  • SM 33-2019 - EQUIPMENT: The part number listed in the document is to be returned if it meets the criteria provided.
  • V941901-2011521 - EXTERIOR LIGHTING: Condensation and or water droplets visible on inside of exterior light lenses. Tb updated to include model year 2019 applicability.
  • VHW-17-11 - EQUIPMENT: Vas 6154 replacement part setup guide
  • SM 44-2017 EN - EQUIPMENT: This special notice is to inform dealers to return all part numbers listed in the document and order the superseded part numbers going forward.
  • Elsa 6-29-15 - EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL : This document contains the vw elsa newsletter that contains a general overview of wiring diagrams updates, technical bulletins, pending service solutions, tech tips, campaigns, updates, and suggestions.
  • Elsa 6-22-15 - EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL : This document contains the vw elsa newsletter that contains a general overview of wiring diagrams updates, elsapro infomedia icons grayed out, workshop equipment tool storage application, technical bulletins, pending service solutions, tech
  • 1-2017 Update - EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL : This communication is to update our profi dealers of the current status of the latest inbound and outbound profi requests.
  • TT 97-12-02 - EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL : Data link connector pin assignment chart that is applicable to all models. Update model year applicability.
  • V691601 2010479 - EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL : Update model year applicability to include 2017.
  • PDI - PASSAT TEC - EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL : Passat perfect delivery inspection (pdi) - technician and detailer inspections: a checklist to insure a customer receives a wonderful delivery of a vehicle that looks, feels, and meets the expectations of a new vehicle that he/she has purc
  • PDI - PASSAT TEC - EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL : Passat perfect delivery inspection (pdi) - technician and detailer inspections: a checklist to insure a customer receives a wonderful delivery of a vehicle that looks, feels, and meets the expectations of a new vehicle that he/she has purc
  • 561 065 760 A as - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Assembly instructions: installation of original remote start feature accessory, volkswagen passat.
  • V001404 2010380 - EQUIPMENT: Technical bulletin (squeaks, rattles, noise, repair materials): this doucment contains a list of components and applications developed to repair concerns of squeaks, rattles, noise and trim fit conditions.
  • V941402 2011521 - EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS: Technical bulletin (exterior lights, moisture accumulation): exterior light assemblies (headlights, taillights, fog lights, turn signals) are vented and may collect moisture on their inner surfaces, depending on humidity and other climatic
  • TT 64-14-02 - VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS: Tech tips (heated rear window, one or more lines inoperative): to detect which line(s) is inoperative, utilize a volt meter to check for 0 v, which will be present after the open in the grid line. The check must be performed with the engin
  • TT 64-14-02 - VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:REAR WINDOW: Tech tips (heated rear window, one or more lines inoperative): to detect which line(s) is inoperative, utilize a volt meter to check for 0 v, which will be present after the open in the grid line. This document informs of how to diagnose t
  • V941501 2011521 - EXTERIOR LIGHTING: Technical bulletin: condensation and or water droplets becomming visible on inside of exterior light lenses issue is discussed in this document
  • V941403 2011521 - EXTERIOR LIGHTING: Technical bulletin (exterior lights, moisture accumulation): this document informs of the condensation and or water droplets visible on inside of exterior light lenses. The document also informs how to service the issue.
  • 2015831 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM: Volkswagen: exhaust heat shield, replacement guidelines. Heat shields are to be inspected after completion o any type of repair to the underbody (exhaust system transmission, etc.), and if damaged, replaced. *pe
  • 092603 - STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:PUMP: Zf vh recall of the zf steering pump, supplied to wd's for replacement of the audi a4 passat p/n 8d0 145 156fx instead of the correct zf p/n 7691 955 276zw. 2004 audi a4 also included. *tt
  • 101703 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH: Ignition switch special warranty extension question and answer sheet to volkswagen owners. *tt
  • 0328 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH: Ignition switch limited warranty extension 1996-1997 vehicles. *tt
  • 0101 - SEATS: Subject regarding latch system lower anchors and tethers for children, installing / retrofitting. *tt
  • 9901 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM: Conditions with visible smoke from exhaust system when accelerating. *tt
  • 9806 - POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION: Subject on automatic transmission fluid ( atf ), checking 01 transmission. *yc
  • 9804 - UNKNOWN OR OTHER: Subject on maintenance intervals. *yc
  • 15 9701 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS: Toothed belt runs towards outside, wears out/ jumps off, and cracks. *ak
  • 9704109702F - POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL): Difficulties with shift lever and transmission is hard to shift into reverse gear. *yc
  • 34 9703 - POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL): Transmission pops out of gear/shifter feels like it has a double detent when shifting into gear, and will not maintain shift adjustment. *ak
Known Recall Investigations
  • Fuel tank puncture investigation as of 20001228


  • Light and /windshield wipers investigation as of 20000810

    There is no summary currently available

  • Fuel tank puncture investigation as of 20000810

    The office of defects investigation opened this investigation on august 10, 2000 based on 9 reports regarding punctured fuel tanks involving the jetta, passat, and cabrio models.The reports indicate additional reports in its response to the preliminary evaluation.This investigation has been upgraded for further study.

  • Lights and/or windshield wiper obscured investigation as of 20000202

    There is no summary currently available

Most Recent Consumer Complaints and Accidents
CrashFireTowedInjuredDeathsFailure
Date
NoNoN NoneNone20131204

Tl*the contact owns a 1996 volkswagen passat. The contact stated that the rear passenger side door handles failed to open from the outside. The contact also stated that the front driver side and the front passenger side door handles failed to open from the outside. The contact had to use the key from the outside of the door to wind the window down to open the doors. The vin was not available. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 120,000.

NoNoN NoneNone20110703

I was driving on the highway in my 1996 vw passat at 65 mph and the entire inside of my car was engulfed with water and anti freeze steam and vapor. It was quickly and with out warning impossible to see through the windshield. The probable cause of the problem is a defective heater core. This is a very serious safety issue and could have lead to a major accident resulting in injury or death. *tr

NoNoN NoneNone20101111

Heater core failed while driving, blowing hot steam out of the vents, dumping hot coolant onto my feet and fogging up the windshield instantly. *tr

NoNoN NoneNone20080601

Tl*the contact owns a 1996 volkswagen passat. While driving 40 mph at night, the exterior headlamps failed. The dealer stated that the vin was not included in nhtsa campaign id number 02v256000 (electrical system:ignition:switch), although the failures were identical. The contact would be responsible for the repairs at the cost of $250. He is currently in the process of having the vehicle repaired. The failure and current mileages were 140,000.

NoNoN NoneNone20080509

Tl*the contact owns a 1996 volkswagen passat. The contact started the ignition and the antilock brake system warning light illuminated on the instrument panel. While the light was illuminated, the air conditioner unit, windshield wipers, and headlights were inoperative. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and they stated that the failure was related to the electrical component in the ignition switch. The vehicle has not been repaired. The contact was displeased to know that his vin was not included in the recall, especially since the failures were identical. The recall number was unknown. The failure mileage was unknown and the current mileage was 120,000.

NoNoN NoneNone20071212

Heatercore failed foged up all my windows,soaked carpet and filled cabin with toxic antifreeze vapor on my way home from my uncles funeral. *cn

NoNoN NoneNone20070125

The ignition switch on my 1996 vw passat went out while driving at night, which shut down the headlights. This is exactly the same as described in nhtsa campaign id number : 02v256000 i was informed by vw customer service this recall didn't apply to my vin#, despite it being a 1996 passat. I think it should. *tr

NoNoN NoneNone20061021

Heater core failure. Venting of noxious fumes into passanger compartment. *nm

NoNoN NoneNone20060930

Tl*the contact owns a 1996 volkswagen passat. Upon purchasing the vehicle, the check engine light illuminated on the instrument panel. The seller stated that it was a minor issue. The check engine light was reset and illuminated again two days later. In addition, the vehicle would constantly overheat. There were no signs of the vehicle overheating while driving; however, radiator fluid would spill out of the vehicle when it was parked. The radiator, timer, water pump, and sensors were replaced on the vehicle, but none of the repairs remedied the failure. Nhtsa campaign id number 95v178000 (engine and engine cooling:cooling system:fan) for the 1995 passat is identical to the failure she is experiencing. The failure mileage was 117,000 and current mileage was 136,000. Updated 09/10/08. *lj updated 09/16/08. *jb

NoNoN NoneNone20060810

Dt*: the contact stated the vehicle would not start sometimes and the windshield wipers worked intermittently. The vehicle finally started after several attempts. There was a nhtsa recall, # 02v256000, regarding the electrical system: ignition: switch. The manufacturer informed the contact that previous recall repair information was available through the dealer. The dealership was not contacted.

NoNoN NoneNone20060622

I have had ongoing issues with electronic and emissions sensors for this vehicle and recently spent $756.54 to (again!) replace sensors so that the vehicle would pass its annual emissions test (as mandated by the epa). I wrote to vw customer care to seek reimbursement of this (and past) charges and was told today (7/13/06) that no recalls or service bulletins were issued, so no reimbursement will be made. I told them that nhtsa issued recall 99v131 (which addresses some of the areas) but vw told me that it did not apply, as all reimbursements are vin-specific. Can anyone please help? Thank you. *jb

NoNoN NoneNone20060315

Dt*: the contact stated the headlights and windshield wipers became inoperable, then the vehicle would not start. The vehicle has not been seen by a mechanic. The recall, #02v256000 concerning the ignition switch was performed on the vehicle in august 2002. The vehicle is having the same problem as indicated in the recall. The manufacturer was contacted. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone20051205

Heater core is leaking, and makes driving impossible due to decreased visibility, and the fumes coming off the heater core cause me to cough for a few days if i actually drive my car. *nm

NoNoN NoneNone20050731

My 1996 vw passat has lost its entire instrument cluster, very unsafe with no backing from vw. *jb

NoNoN 1 InjuredNone20050423

Rear door latch failed and door flew open and 10 year old child fell out of the car. The door appears to close normally but it is not latched. After closing the door multiple times , it does catch but it is not obvious when the door is closed. Luckily, there minor injuries due to the low speed of the car.*ak

NoNoN NoneNone20050331

1996 clutch pedal assembly failed on the 1996 volkswagen passat.*mr the consumer believed the part was poorly designed.*jb

NoNoN NoneNone20041205

The abs light illuminated and the anti-lock brakes tend not to operate, causing the vehicle to have extended stopping distance. Taken to dealer for check up and, results showed that there is an electrical problem with the computer. *ak *nm

NoNoN NoneNone20041017

Owner of 1996 volkswagen passat glx. Driving low speed when i heard a pop & hiss sound. Tons of steam came through the air conditioning vents & under the dash. I pulled the car over and found leaking coolant under vehicle on passenger side. Heater core failed. I had to tow my vehicle back to my house and contacted volkswagen of america to repair. No response from vwoa as of yet as i contacted them via email a couple days ago.*ak

NoNoN NoneNone20040919

Consumer's vehicle experienced the same problems as stated in nhtsa recall 02v256000. On certain passenger vehicles, the electrical portion of the ignition switch assembly can fail, causing the headlights and windshield wipers to become inoperative. Dearship indicated to consumer sorry this vehicle was not included in the recall due to the vin. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone20040831

Driver side window was noisy when closing, now has failed such that window does not close completely, slides down allowing water and wind to enter vehicle. Motor will function, but makes sounds as though cogs in regulator are stripped. Many other owners on various discussion forums have experienced the same problems. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone20040823

Ignition switch replaced in a 1996 passat vr6. Was a recall on switch. I would like a refund on parts and labor. *jb

NoNoN NoneNone20040807

My 1996 vw passat has an ignition switch is faulty. My first time was at night and my lights went out. I pulled of the road and restarted the car and the lights came on. The next time the lights went out and the wipers stop. I hit every switch and when i hit the ignition switch everything care on. I called dealer and he said my vin was not covered under the recall. If my car is having the same problems as the recall why can't this be covered by the safety recall?

NoNoN NoneNone20040629

Consumer had 1996 vw passat ignition switch replaced. After about a year switch needed to be replaced again. *ts the first time the switch was replaced it was free of charge and now that it has failed again the dealer doesn't want to replace the ignition switch under the recall again because they stated the vehicle was more than 8 years old. *jb

NoNoN NoneNone20040623

Consumer complained about a door lock problem. Currently, three of the four door locks broke. Doors will not open from the inside or the outside. Consumer took vehicle to the dealer, who indicated that they will do nothing. Consumer purchased an extended warranty. However, it did not cover the problem. *ak

NoNoN 1 InjuredNone20040106

In january 2004 i drove back to school in virginia after spending christmas with my family. On the way back while i was on the pennsylvania turn pike my heater core burst, spraying boiling hot coolant (both liquid and steam) into the vehicles interior. The liquid for the most part caused damage to the carpet, and fortunately any that was sprayed on my side of the compartment was blocked by my pants. The steam however filled my compartment, making it impossible to see and causing a near collision with another vehicle before i was able to open my windows and clear it out. The injury listed as such is in regards to my breathing the coolant in, which is harmful to ones health. Maintennance had been performed previously on my vehicle just before that replacing the aux water pump, and i had the coolant system flushed and maintennance done on it at that time at an authorized vw dealership. There have been several problems with my cooling system, the aux water pump, the heater core, and the thermostat. Fortunately police were passing by at the time and gave assistance, as well as calling a tow truck.*ak

NoNoN NoneNone20031002

Door handles wore out within three years of the life of the vehicle. Consumer had two vehicles that had defective door handles. Not long after owning the vehicle the consumer was unable to open any of the doors from the inside. *ak dealer found the worn door lock assembly needed to be replaced. Broken outside mirror switch replaced. Trunk lock was loose. *tt *jb

NoNoN NoneNone20030831

The passenger door power window does not work most of the time - trunk will not unlock with key, cruise control only works sometimes.*ak

NoNoN NoneNone20030811

While driving, the headlights blew out which caused the consumer to abruptly pull over. *jb

NoNoN NoneNone20030709

While traveling on the highway and without prior warning, the came on and went off intermittently. *ak windshield wipers worked intermittently. Consumer also experienced the same defects as stated in the ignition switch recall. *ph. The consumer stated the problem was fixed under the recall regarding the ignition switch. *jb

NoNoN NoneNone20030616

Transmission broken at 60,000 miles, ase certified mechanis unable to fix properly, they had to replace it under theri warantee within 12,000 miles. Transmission lasted 8 month with shakey shifting then went again. Now 4th tranmission does not work properly . *ak

NoNoN 1 InjuredNone20030511

No event leading to the failure... I was driving down the freeway at 65 mph when my heater core failed.. Causing solding hot coolant to rush onto my feet while driving.. I had to brake while coolant was all over my feet...Burning them...Nearly causing and accident!*ak

NoNoN NoneNone20030420

Headlights continually go out. Volkswagen dealership supposedly did electrical part of ignition switch replacement, but headlights still did not work. Further reairs by an independant mechanic worked for a short time, then one of the lights went out again. This has been ongoing for over a year. Dealership completely uninterested.*ak

NoNoN NoneNone20021111

Consumer states the dashboard instrument are not working at all. Speedometer is not show accurate speed, neither the gasoline gauge and other panel instruments. Por favor envie el cuestionario. Ts

NoNoN NoneNone20021031

When driving vehicle without warning the headlights, windshield wipers, and turn signals will go out. Cause is unknown. Please provide any further information. Mr

NoNoN NoneNone20021031

1. My car had ignition switch failure. There is a recall on ignition switch failures for the year/make/model of my car. When i contacted the manufacturer they said the recall doesn't apply to my vin. 2. Drivers door window register has failed. Many owners of similar vehicles have reported same.

NoNoN NoneNone20021029

Nhtsa# 15255-02-v-256-000 ignition switch assembly can fail causing the head light, widshield and wipers to become inoperative. A recall has been issued on similar makes and models, however this vehicle is not include to vin# dealer notified ts

NoNoN NoneNone20020930

The ignition switch cuts out intermittentently. Engine still runs but no lights, wipers, abs braking, and other safety features operate. Dt

NoNoN NoneNone20020915

Consumer states while driving all vehicle's headlights, taillights and interior lights fail w/o warning. Ts

NoNoN NoneNone20020731

Ignition switch failure with failure of windshield wiper, headlights, turning signals and ac/heat fan. All except for the letter i considered a safety concern. Nhtsa posted a recall for this particular year and model but vwoa do not have records of such recall and charge for the parts and labor of replacement. Dt

NoNoN NoneNone20020628

Passengers could not get in or out of vehicle because door was bolted shut. Cause unknown. Dealer notified.*ak

NoNoN NoneNone20020430

Re: nhtsa recall campaign number 02v256000 states that "on certain passenger vehicles, the electrical portion of the ignition switch assembly can fail causing the headlights and windshield wipers to become inoperative. If such failures occur while the vehicle is in use at night or in a rainy or snowy weather, a crash could occur. Dealers will replace the electrical part of the ignition switch assembly. Owner notification is expected to begin during september or october 2002. Owners should contact vwofa at 1-800-822-8987. Well, at this writing it is october 14, 2002 i haven't received the notification. The problem stated above happened to my car. But i was told that i would not be eligible for the replacement because my vin does not match their list. Duh, put it on the list because it happened. The moronic "customer advocate" as they call themselves kept repeating that the vin is not on the list so he cannot do anything. Can nhtsa do something about this problem? Mr

NoNoN NoneNone20011223

There is a recall on the ignition switch of the 1996 audi a4. This is the same vehicle as the vw passat. When this part fails, it causes the running or headlights, windshield wipers, defroster, and heater blower to fail. All of these electrical tools are necessary for driving at night or in bad weather. My dealer seems to be unaware of the audi recall and also did not see why i felt this intermitent problem made my vehicle unsafe to drive. Over the course of the last two weeks i have attempted to get this problem rectified...Once the switch did fail completely and was no longer an intermitent problem, the electrician was able to pin point the cause. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone20011105

Complete shut down of electrical system while the car is being driven resulting in complete loss of power and limited control of the car. A search of the web indicates this is not an isolated occurance. Volkswagen customer service is non existent. As for the door handle and window problem, again this is not an isolated incident. So far no one has lost their life at least in our case. M. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone20010510

Lost power assist and had to use hand brake to stop. Vacuum line was replaced and failed again at 79363 miles.

NoNoN NoneNone20010327

Car began failing to start. Battery replaced. Symptoms reappeared in 2 weeks. Car running rough, difficult to start. Stalling during highway operation. Required tow to dealer. Dealer reported that computer module wiring harness rusty and corroded requiring replacement.*ak

NoNoN NoneNone20010114

Front driver and passenger door locks freeze in cold weather. Door opens but unable to close. Door must be held closed with cord or held closed by driver, causing unsafe driving condition.*ak

NoNoN NoneNone20001231

The doors cannot be opened from the outside. It started with the left rear door which i tried to repair myself. Then it was the driver door. It was repaired by the dealer at a high cost. Now it is the passenger door. This is dangerous and should be the object of a recall.*ak

NoNoN NoneNone20001230

When at freezing temp, passenger's door latch partially froze open causing door to open while driving. Driver door latch froze preventing door to be closed. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone20001130

When car is driven at highway speeds for about 1 hour, the abs light comes on. Mechanic at volkswagen says that the abs pumps need to be replaced at a cost of $1700. Since this problem is intermitten, i decided not to spend the money for repair since i can still brake though without abs. But i explained to front desk customer service (at david michael vw in freehold, nj) that abs failure is not part of normal wear and tear. That the manufacture should cover the cost, but they did not accept that argument.*ak

NoNoN NoneNone20001104

Speedometer/tachometer and fuel gauges went crazy. With engine off speedometer reads 80 mph and tachometer reads 4000 rpm. This occurred after a cold start-up and is known to be an instrument cluster failure. It appears to be specific to 1996 model volkswagen passat glx models and is reported to be a $600. Or more dealer repair with a need to special order the replacement gauge/cluster assembly from germany requiring 4-6 weeks for parts delivery. This is unacceptable ! Printed circuit boards and instrument clusters are not wear items and should not fail under normal operation. I am not about to pay vw $600. Or more to fix a known defect. It is certainly possible to use the vin numbers to determine if this defect is limited to a certain production time period. Perhaps the vendor supplier to vw had some production problems that were discovered and corrected. Owner's of these vehicles should not pay for a known defect that results from normal vehicle operation. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone20000930

Consumer states headlights failed without warning. Mr

NoNoN NoneNone20000930

Our main comment is that this vehicle was sold to our daughter illegally. We then found that the mileage indicator had been rolled back. This car has been sitting in her driveway because it will not run, all the hardware is falling off. After finally in. *jb ***dimsii ivoq entry posted after 12/12/02 cut-over to artemis****743725

NoNoN NoneNone20000831

When the key is inserted into the ignition and turned, the engine does not start, which also caused other componets to become inoperative, consumer had the ignition lock assembly replaced. After the replacement, consumer was still experiencing difficulties in starting the vehicle. The mechanic stated that the ignition lock assembly was faulty, also the battery was eplaced.*jg

NoNoN NoneNone20000801

Door latch assembly or locks are not securing property. Door occasionally would fly open. Consumer has to use a bungy cord & seat belt to keep shut. Manufacturer denied the claim. Vehicle can't be secured to keep others from getting in. Consumer is waiting for the part to arrive at the dealer. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone20000608

Instrument panel has been out for a while. Light has been on/off onboard diagnostic indicator. Towed to dealer, and was told that instrument panel: cluster module had a short. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone20000531

I cannot get into my car driver/passenger side without rolling all my windows down from the outside. I have replaced all doors once before and then the front two doors broke once again must be replaced again, i feel it is a safety hazard, if i were to wreck and became unconsious in a burning car the person on the outside would not be able to get into the front of the car.

NoNoN NoneNone20000513

The instrument speedometer will not set at 0, and the rev counter also will not set at 0. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone20000405

Consumer was traveling on the road and abs brake light came on the dashboard. Mechanic at dealership told consumer that abs brake system needed a computer module replaced. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone20000305

The inside trunk release has failed twice. Both rear door latches have failed. Rear drivers side door will not open at all. The rear passenger side door can only be opened from the outside. Passengers in the rear can not open the rear car doors. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone20000131

While driving between 20-40 mph the transmission will be rough on speed shifting. Consumer said it felt like transmission kicked in. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone20000120

Electical cluster for instrument panel failed. Yh

NoNoN NoneNone20000106

Intermittent power window failure could cause vehicle inhabitants to not be able to escape in case of an accident. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone20000105

While driving in a parking lot the instrument panel failed to function properly: digital displays flashed on and off speedometer and tachometer gauges moving clockwise and counter-clockwise out of control, this pattern continued when vehicle ignition turned off. Car taken to dealer for regular service and current problem. Service advisor says battery ok, needs new instrument cluster. Jan.06 vehicle fail to start, checked battery, battery burned up,cells dry. Replaced with new battery, inside of 2 week period failure to start and no powercontacted volkswagen of america. Vehicle towed to dealer. Vehicle has been at dealer for 6 weeks. Dealer installs instrument cluster, go to pick up car and it fails to start. Car remains at dealership. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19991231

Called vw - nhtsa campaign number 02v256000 describing recall does not apply to my car?! Ridiculous! I had this exact thing happen to me, in snowy weather. I drove 60 miles with my hand on the key switch twisting it so lights and wipers would stay on! This recall needs to be expanded! Mr

NoNoN NoneNone19991227

Diagnosis not comprehensive, poor customer service, too much waiting to get parts from germany, irresponsible and insensitive vw managemnent and customer service. No safety defect listed. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19991130

Not able ot open door. Handle mechanism broken. First handle mechanism broken in dec 1999. Because child lock was on, major service was need to get into door. June 2000 the driver side door handle mechism broke, but can get into through the passenger door . The left rear door handle appears loose and ready to break. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19991115

Vehicle has been experincing ongoing problem with day ruinning light/ head light, heater / cooling system would intermittently go out or stop operating. Sometimes if key is jiggled it would cause it to come back on or operate again. Aslo, speedometer / odometer fail edto operate. Dealer notified and refused to repair unless cost goes to consumer. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19991007

Front right tire experienced tread separation while driving (dotan7jt451179 - bf goodrich 185-6514). Nlm

NoNoN NoneNone19990929

None of the doors being able to be opened from the outside is a safety hazard to me, in order to get into my car i have to roll down all the windows from the drivers side and open the door or doors from the outside, anyone could jump into my car from the passanger side at this time. To fix this problem we were quoted an extremely high amount by the dealer which i think isnt right because this is faulty craftmanship not faulty ownership. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19990826

While driving 60mph vehicle suddenly died for no reason. This caused a traffic hazard. Had no warning. Towed to dealer. Informed by mechanic the problem was alternator. The battery was also deffective. Both alternator & battery needed replacing. Was given no reason concerning alternator. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19990630

Ignition switch failure results in windshield wiper, windows, and blinker failure as well as the engine not starting or stopping once started. Very dangerous and prone to serious accident. May cause personal injury and harm and injury to others in an highway accident. Dt

NoNoN NoneNone19990531

The door handle has broken 4 times and i really feel this is a problem.*ak

NoNoN NoneNone19990330

Driver's side and rear passenger's side doors do not open at all from the outside, and sometimes they will not open from the inside. Dealer has seen and greased the doors. However, problem still exists. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19990309

On tuesday, owner noticed that the drl were not working as well as the interior a/c fan. Driver had been instructed by dealer to 'jiggle' switch in order to get both working. Instructions did not make either to work. Driver switched off engine while moving, trying to get either to work. After trying this several times with no luck, one incident caused the cruise control to 'set'. Driver was unable to turn off the cruise control either by switch, brake pedal or clutch pedal. Driver ended up turning off car in order to cancel the cruise control. After letting car sit for about 10 minutes, both items worked again, but after the car sat overnight, both items did not work again. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19990205

Instrument cluster failed after car left out in cold. Had to get replacement according to dealer from germany. Took 4-6 weeks to get replaced. Additionally left drivers door lock mechanism failed and would not open the door. The only way into the door was either from passengers side door, or roll down the electric windows. If car left out in cold, windows will not roll down. Lock come unlocked while driving or parked. Dealer said would cost big bucks to replace defective door handle mechanism. I purchased extended warranty but they said not covered. Major safety issues as we are raising my grandchild and she rides in the back seat while these lock mechanisms fail.

NoNoN NoneNone19990111

Gauge cluster and hvac control unit both failed at startup. Dealer was unable to diagnose cause of failures. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19990106

"o" ring and seal were cracked, causing oil leakages. Manufacturer notified and refused to replace fuel injection system unless cost goes to consumer. The dealer replaced the failed parts for no charge. *ak *ml

NoNoN NoneNone19981230

All doors at 32 degrees and below intermitently will not stay closed/ instrument panel intermitently would not show milage 1 year ago but now the instrument cluster including speed,feul level, and tach do no work at all

NoNoN NoneNone19981129

Odometer replaced: new milage is zero(0): used-car buyers beware of this problem... Inaccurate milage readings

NoNoN NoneNone19980929

Exhaust system failed intermittantly causing loudness and vibration, making car undrivable and to fail state inspection.

NoNoN NoneNone19980922

The vacuum hose broke at 55000 miles, was repaired and failed again at 60000. Since a dealer was not available at the time it was repaired with duct tape. (the duct tape proved to be more reliable). The hose was then repaired at 70000 miles and failed for the third time at 72500 miles. It is currently repaired with duct tape. This problem is further agrevated by the fact that none of the three dealers i have contacted have had the part. The first failure occurred in rapid city, sd. The dealer there did not have the part and the national distributor did not have the part. One was finally located in texas and fed-exed to rapid city. The second failure occurred in northern calif. The dealer in palm springs did not have the part and the national distributor did not have the part and he could not locate a dealer that had one. I drove back to fl with the duct tape repair. When i contacted the dealer in tallahassee, fl he did not have the part but he ordered one from jacksonville. I returned to the tallahassee dealer after the third failure on a friday afternoon. He did not have the part and could not get one until the next tuesday. I have not returned! I actually feel safer with the duct tape than i would with their repair part. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19980704

Wheel bearing failed on the driver's side causing vibration in steering wheel.

NoNoN NoneNone19980531

Design flaw? All four door handles have failed (car less than 4 years old) and car cannot be locked when they fail.

NoNoN NoneNone19980204

Abs failure.

NoNoN NoneNone19980130

Right rear and right front door lock and latch has failed. The driver and family went out of town when the right rear door came open while the driver was on a bridge, on a mixmaster about 75 ft. In the air. The driver pulls the car over to close the door and the door came open again while driving on highway.

NoNoN NoneNone19980102

The door on the driver's side does not always close. There is also a problem with the rear passenger's door on the driver's side. The door latch on the rear driver's side door was replaced in dec of 1996. The manufacture/dealer are aware of the problem with both doors. The problem has not been corrected. Seems to be more of a problem in the colder months. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19971222

Whenever the weather is cold, the doors fail to close properly. The locks fail to work also. The doors would pop open after being closed. Have taken vehicle to dealership & informed by mechanic everythings works fine. Was informed lubrication was problem first 2 times. The third time told locks were the problem. Have contacted manufacturer. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19971220

Consumer began to smell burning or smoke. He checked and found out that the scent was the brakes left rear wheel. Dealership repaired brakes twice and the problem still exists. Lee high valley volkswagen--allentown, pa. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19970906

Instrument cluster failed.

NoNoN 1 InjuredNone19970628

The latch failed on the driver side safety belt. While braking, the latching device above driver's left shoulder failed causing driver to hit their head on the top of the steering wheel. This has in turn caused repeated failure of the spiral spring in the driver's side air bag system - the warning light continues to activate on an irregular basis.

NoNoN NoneNone19970530

The latch failed on the driver side safety belt. While braking, the latching device above driver's left shoulder failed causing driver to hit their head on the top of the steering wheel. This has in turn caused repeated failure of the spiral spring in the driver's side air bag system - the warning light continues to activate on an irregular basis.

CrashNoN 1 InjuredNone19970412

Consumer was involved in an rearend collision traveling about 15 mph and both driver's and passenger's side air bags deployed, resulting in injuries to the driver. Consumer also states that the front end has little or no damage.

NoNoN NoneNone19970324

Driver's side air bag screw loosened.

NoNoN NoneNone19970211

Intermittent stalling due to electronic control module failure. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19970131

Whenever foot was removed from accelerator pedaltransmission would roll backwards. Would need to drive with foot on brakes & accelerator pedal. It was hard to shift into gear. Transmission has been replaced. But, problem seems to reappear each time. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19970130

Electronically controlled rear windows open by themselves. In order for windows to remained closed, the control button must be depress until windows are closed and vehicle turned off. Windows reopen when vehicle is re-started.

NoNoN NoneNone19970120

Was driving and transmission jumped into third gear and wouldn't move, put into neutral so consumer could drive . *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19961230

Check engine light comes on and off for unknown reasons.

NoNoN NoneNone19961129

Gauges failed.

NoNoN NoneNone19961017

Door seals leak.

NoNoN NoneNone19960831

Ongoing problem with electrical shortages. Vehicle been in / out of dealer shop on three occasions, and the problem still reoccurring. Please feel free to provide any further details on this matter. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19960810

Vacuum pipe broke, causing partial loss of power assist during braking. Power loss increases greatly with each successive stop.

NoNoN NoneNone19960727

Plastic shroud on top of engine is chaffing the fuel line. *sd

NoNoN NoneNone19960629

Over time gas mileage transmission performance diminished. The transmission hesitated and shifted improperly.

NoNoN NoneNone19960623

Manual transmission slips out of 3rd gear and into neutral, resulting in loss of control until manually put back into gear. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19960312

While driving at 40mph, the vehicle stalled out, wire to the core was loose. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19960228

Trunk switch failed 2 times.

NoNoN NoneNone19951230

When driving at any speed abs light and the brake light keep coming on. Also, cruise control comes on, and the abs system locks up. When consumer gets out of vehicle, horn will keep blowing. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19951229

The car blows smoke so bad i cannot keep the windows open. I have the dealer get the car past emissions because it fails every time. This not only effects myself but every person in the area that i happen to be passing through. The dealer says this is normal. This is not normal for even a diesel. This is a health problem. A raw fuel smell is also present, there are no visible leaks.

NoNoN NoneNone

The doors do not latch properly. You must slam them at times to make them close, then they will work ok at other times. The trunk lock does not work with or without the key. It must be opened from inside with the release button. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone

While driving the wipers and headlights went out. Nhtsa recall 02 v 256 000 was related to this problem but the consumers vehicle was not included in the recall. *nlm

NoNoN NoneNone

Door handle problem. Handles have been replaced 3 times on different doors. Manufacturer was contacted, and said that there was nothing they could do.*ak

NoNoN NoneNone

While driving for over two hours vehicle continued to accelerate, revving up when the driver attempted to pass another vehicle and stalled. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone

Consumer stated vehicle had the very same problem as mentioned in recall 02v256000 concerning ignition switch. Also, the electrical part of the switch shorted out the lights, air conditioning, windshield wipers, and radio. Took vehicle dealer, and consumer was granted an extended warranty. However, the problem still exists. *ak

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