Volkswagen
Of America rip-off! They sold me a lemon! New 2000 Volkswagen Passat is unsafe! Constant problems!

Major problems with my 2000 VW Passat with a 1.8, which was purchased new. Only has 54,000 miles on it and emissions workshop sensor light has been on twice, which I understand is minor compared to reading other people's problems on the net. Dealer fixed first time and advised "sensor malfunction-so they reset it" Second time was for the stated reason of a rotting hose that needed replaced.

Now airbag sensor light indicates problem, and dealer just advised it needs a new clockspring mechanism and spiral harnass. Water pump needs totally replaced-it just broke down and I can't drive car unless repaired or belt/engine issue. VW "customer advocates" refused to give me my case number, saying number would go to dealer only, even though dealer asked me for the casenumber, VW refused to consider paying for this junker and its problems until I had a VW dealer diagnose.

I had to have it towed 30 miles to the nearest dealer, even though I paid my local certified VW (nondealer) mechanic to diagnose (he says broken water pump, and a totally new airbag was needed). VW of America refused to pay for diagnosic scan at dealer. Dealer just called me and said they're still waiting to hear from VW on whether the air bag repair will be covered by VW. Hopefully the water pump will be covered under the power train warranty. This has been a nightmare and total hassle. We had to lease another car because this car has been such a problem.

Have had this car serviced regularly. One day it just started hesitating, lurching and slowing down while in drive. No reason has been given to me why it did this. You deal with a different VW "customer advocate" every time you call. They appear to be callous, aloof college-age kids who could really care less. There needs to be a recall, or "campaign" as VW puts it, of this entire vehicle. People with similar issues need to contact NHTSA and complain. Wished I never owned one. Buyer beware!!

Company: Volkswagen
Country: USA
State: Nationwide
Site: www.vw.com

  <     >