Volkswagen Passat problems
The Volkswagen Passat is a nameplate of large family cars (D-segment) manufactured and marketed by the German automobile manufacturer Volkswagen since 1973. It has been marketed variously as the Dasher, Santana, Quantum, Magotan, Corsar and Carat, with varying body styles such as saloon, estate, and hatchback.
A "four-door coupé" variant of the Passat with a lower roof was released in the North American market in 2008 as the Passat CC, which was then renamed to Volkswagen CC. The CC was succeeded by the Arteon in 2017.
In January 2011, Volkswagen introduced a separate Passat model line, internally designated "Volkswagen New Midsize Sedan" or NMS, that was manufactured in the US at the Chattanooga assembly plant and in China at Nanjing by SAIC-Volkswagen. Developed to increase Volkswagen sales in North America, the Passat NMS is larger and cost less to produce. sold in the North America, South Korea, China, and Middle East. The separate B8 Passat model entered production in Europe in 2014, based on the MQB platform.
In 2019, the Passat NMS program was split into two as the North American one continued being produced on an older platform while the Chinese Passat moved on to the MQB platform, which resulted in Volkswagen marketed three models under the Passat nameplate globally at that time. The North American Passat was discontinued after the 2022 model year.
Volkswagen ended the production of the saloon Passat for the European market in 2022. The B9 Passat, released in 2023, is only available in an estate body style. The Passat continues to be available as a saloon in China.
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Volkswagen Passat model years
Common Volkswagen Passat problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Volkswagen Passat, several common problems have been identified:
- Engine Oil Leaks: Another prevalent issue is engine oil leaks in Volkswagen Passat cars. These leaks often stem from components like camshaft chain tensioners and valve cover gaskets, leading to oil seepage and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly.
- Digital Display Faults: The digital display in the instrument cluster of Volkswagen Passat vehicles is prone to issues such as going dark or losing functionality after driving. This can affect the driver's ability to monitor critical information like speed, fuel levels, and warning lights.
- ABS Light Due to ABS Control Module Failure: A common problem reported by Passat owners is the illumination of the ABS light due to ABS control module failure. This issue can impact the vehicle's braking system, potentially compromising safety on the road.
- Rear Wheel Bearing Housing: Some Passat owners have experienced problems with the rear wheel bearing housing. Issues in this area can lead to noise, vibration, and compromised handling, affecting the overall driving experience and safety of the vehicle.
- Sunroof Trim Issues: Another common problem involves sunroof trim malfunctions. Problems with the sunroof trim can result in water leaks, wind noise, and even potential structural issues if not addressed in a timely manner.
These common problems with the Volkswagen Passat highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to any signs of trouble to ensure the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.
Are Volkswagen Passat cars reliable?
The VW Passat scores well in major reliability ratings with a 3.5 out of 5.0 from RepairPal and a 4.5 out of 5.0 from J.D. Power. Common Volkswagen Passat problems include issues with interior accessories, steering problems, and oil sludge problems.
What are the disadvantages of the Passat?
Some of the cons include:
- Price: The Passat can be more expensive than some other midsize sedans.
- Handling: While the Passat has a comfortable ride, it may not be as sporty as some other midsize sedans.
- Limited trunk space: Depending on the model, the Passat may have less trunk space than some other midsize sedans.
How many miles will a Passat last?
Most Volkswagen vehicles will last between 100,000 and 200,000 miles, although well-kept models can last even longer than that. All VWs are remarkably reliable vehicles. When it comes to longevity, the Golf, Passat, Jetta, and Beetle are known to be particularly long-lasting.
Which year is Passat best?
Best Used Volkswagen Passat Model Years
- 2007 Volkswagen Passat. The 2007 Volkswagen Passat may be slightly older, but Volkswagen vehicles are designed to last. ...
- 2017 Volkswagen Passat. ...
- 2021 Volkswagen Passat.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Volkswagen Passat years
We have researched Volkswagen problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Volkswagen Passat cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Volkswagen Passat model years:
- Volkswagen Passat 2013
- Volkswagen Passat 1999
- Volkswagen Passat 2002
- Volkswagen Passat 2003
- Volkswagen Passat 2006
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Volkswagen Passat model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Volkswagen Passat years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Volkswagen Passat car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Volkswagen Passat , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Volkswagen Passat vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Passat model years
A total of 230 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Passat model years
There were a total of 302 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Passat model years
There were a total of 248 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Passat model years
There were a total of 9 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 7838 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Volkswagen Passat . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Volkswagen Passat vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Volkswagen Passat 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: WVWMP7AN9AE
- Components: STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: I purchased a used vehicle but have found out the oxygen sensor is feeding false error codes to the main OBC causing leaks into driver compartment causing engine to stall while auto in motion and most importantly causing steering wheel to lock, have spoken with VWoA but they have no direct influence with VW or dealerships even if a warranty issue because all parties are independent contractors and all they are able to do is try and help. My name has not been transferred to registration because of smog requirements so you may call me [XXX] my telephone number is [XXX] my case# with VWoA is [XXX], I myself have learned to deal with defects but should this matter be more widespread which I cannot find out because the last case regarding the sensors was sealed in an agreement made by the California ARB, EPA and VW and Audi through a settlement signed in December 2021. Once again my hands are tied from taking much more action but I believe your department whether is able to enforce this matter or not should at least investigate and issue warnings to advise people of what can happen so if they can even at own cost seek appropriate repairs before more damages accrued. Also if this sensor is effecting more models and manufacturers an appropriate temporary fix should be seeker since no long term solutions are available at this time INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Volkswagen Passat 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- VIN: 1VWBP7A3XDC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Airbag light is on dashboard indicating system is not operating
Volkswagen Passat 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-08
- VIN: 1VWBS7A35GC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated that after the dealer had performed a fuel induction on the vehicle, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the catalytic convertor had failed and needed to be replaced; however, the part to do the repair was not available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 98,000.
Volkswagen Passat 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-06
- VIN: 1VWAT7A38GC
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: Air bag error light is on and steering wheel controls/horn are inoperable. Cause is most likely a clock spring failure as has been reported in numerous VW vehicle models including the 2016 VW Passat but the current recall 69L2 doesn’t appear to cover our vehicle. With recall problems on numerous other vehicles, it is hard to believe this isn’t caused by the same issue. Repair cost is estimated at $900 for an item that should be covered by VW.
Volkswagen Passat 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-06
- VIN: 1VWWA7A37LC
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Oil pressure sensor fails. Causing high oil pressure. Causing the valve cover to be destroyed and the oil pan to leak. Draining the car oil.
Volkswagen Passat 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-03
- VIN: 1VWGT7A34HC
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Volkswagen Passat equipped with Michelin Tires, Tire Line: T1XX, Tire Size: 235/45/R18, DOT Number: B9ELT1XX. The contact stated that while the vehicle was in a parking lot, the contact became aware that the rear passenger’s side tire had three cracks approximately 3 inches in length on the side wall near the rim. The vehicle was taken to a tire dealer for inspection, and the tire dealer informed the contact that there was no issue with the integrity of the tire. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle failure mileage was 123,393. The tire failure mileage was 30,000.
Volkswagen Passat 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-30
- VIN: 1VWAT7A31FC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated that fuel was leaking from the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was taken to another local dealer, East Dallas Volkswagen (12635 Lyndon B. Johnson Fwy., Garland, TX 75041); where it was diagnosed that the fuel pump was leaking fuel and that the gasket and fuel pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.
Volkswagen Passat 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-27
- VIN: 1VWBV7A34FC
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: This is the second car like this that I have had. Both had the same issues. when at highway speeds of 65 or greater the steering wheel will shake left and right. It is almost like there is a wheel that is not balanced. That is not the case, I have had the car in the shop 3 times now for this same issue. The last car I had(2015 VW Passat TDI) my son totaled it out in January. It also had the same issues but the dealer ship in Fort Wayne Indiana got it fixed and never really told me what was wrong with it other than they had to call the manufacturer to resolve the issue. The new car has been to the shop and I recorded what it was doing while driving for the technician to see and he put it back up on his lift the day after I got it back from them. he was able to replicate what it was doing for me on the road in the air and on his lift without the car moving. The steering wheel will shake from left to right and as speed picks up it becomes faster and more violent. I was told that I needed a new "Rack and Pinion". The dealership explained to me that the main steering gear is bad and since it is electronic the computer doesn't know where zero should be, thus causing the jerking of wheel from left to right as the computer is guessing and then over correcting. This information would have been more helpful upfront before I paid to have the car worked on chasing other issues that did not resolve the problem. So as of right now I am $1,700.00 in on this issue and being told that it's another $3,500.00 to fix said issue with no guarantee that it will actually be fixed. I asked what would happen if the gear actually broke and I was told to always wear my seatbelt and to keep both hands on the steering wheel. The faster you go the harder it shakes, when your at highway speeds and go to pass someone the car really shakes.
Volkswagen Passat 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-13
- VIN: 1VWCV7A38FC
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated while attempting to activate the defroster, the defroster failed to operate as needed. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the tubing of the heater core needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure reoccurred approximately 100 miles later. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 59,000.
Volkswagen Passat 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-09
- VIN: 1VWBV7A3XFC
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS
- Summary: I was driving the car as usual. I needed to make a u turn at a light where it was safe and legal to do so. I heard a clicking sound and I don’t know what happened. I can’t use anything on the steering wheel.
Volkswagen Passat 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-07
- VIN: 1VWAA7A3XJC
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Fuel pump Leak. Strong order of gasoline has been coming from the car. I had a check and the fuel pump is leaking. Other vehicles have been recalled due to this, but the Passat has not been included. This problem has been reported out in several cars including a fire….
Volkswagen Passat 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-06
- VIN: 1VWAP7A31EC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: My clockspring is broken. I called the dealership to see if the Warranty was done or if there was a recall, they said it was done. I don’t understand how it could have possibly been done when clockspring are not commonly broken. I am very upset I will be having to pay out of pocket for this.
Volkswagen Passat 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-30
- VIN: WVWDU73CX8E
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: My son bought this used car. The STOP ENGINE light came on, got an oil change but the light did not go away. Were told that the oil pressure might be the issue so took it to the mechanic. We were told it was most likely the oil pressure switch. There were multiple codes(cones) and were cleared. The switch was replaced but the engine light's still on & the STOP ENGINE comes on but goes off. It appears it is a gas pump issue that it might be manufacture fault. Is there a recall for this issue on this 2008 Passat? It's my [XXX] 's first car, he saved & bought it but it's dangerous...he got it diagnosed & was told it's a $5,000 job. If it's an oil/gas pump manufacturer issue, is Volkswagen responsible? INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Volkswagen Passat 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-28
- VIN: 1VWAP7A33EC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Driver side headlight showing as out, but not fixable by replacing bulb; wiring issue.
Volkswagen Passat 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-25
- VIN: 1VWAS7A33FC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Gas and Oil comsumption is way too high … Almost every 600-1000 the low oil lights turns on! Check engine on almost all the time due to an error with the oxígen sensor. EPC light gets on very frequently and the car loses speed. Also vehicle has a constant rattlesnake sound when speed is low. Issue was reported some years ago to a local VW dealership in Georgia but they never took care of the issue. Ongoing for a couple of years!. No additional details
Latest 5 recalls Volkswagen Passat
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 128 recalls for different components of the Volkswagen Passat.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Volkswagen Passat 2021
- Report Received Date: 2021-10-15
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Atlas, Atlas Cross Sport, and Passat vehicles. The front wheel bearing bolts may have been incorrectly tightened.
- Consequence: The bolts may loosen and cause a loss of control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the tightness of the wheel bearing bolts and replace the bolts, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 2, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 40R7.
- Model: Volkswagen Passat 2017
- Report Received Date: 2021-05-05
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2017 Touareg GP, Tiguan, Golf A6, E-Golf GP, CCF, 2016-2017 Passat GP, 2018-2019 Golf R GP, and 2018 Atlas vehicles. These internal-use vehicles were sold without confirmation that they were built to all applicable regulatory requirements and may have been modified prior to sale. As such, these vehicles may fail to comply with the requirements of various Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
- Consequence: Vehicles that do not meet all regulatory requirements may have an increased risk of injury, crash, or fire.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will repurchase the vehicles. Owner notification letters were mailed May 20, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 01F1.
- Model: Volkswagen Passat 2016
- Report Received Date: 2021-05-05
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2017 Touareg GP, Tiguan, Golf A6, E-Golf GP, CCF, 2016-2017 Passat GP, 2018-2019 Golf R GP, and 2018 Atlas vehicles. These internal-use vehicles were sold without confirmation that they were built to all applicable regulatory requirements and may have been modified prior to sale. As such, these vehicles may fail to comply with the requirements of various Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
- Consequence: Vehicles that do not meet all regulatory requirements may have an increased risk of injury, crash, or fire.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will repurchase the vehicles. Owner notification letters were mailed May 20, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 01F1.
- Model: Volkswagen Passat 2016
- Report Received Date: 2020-09-16
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Volkswagen Golf R and Atlas, 2017 Golf Alltrack and E-Golf and 2016-2018 Passat vehicles. These internal use vehicles were sold without confirmation that they were built to all applicable regulatory requirements and may have been modified prior to sale. As such, these vehicles may fail to comply with the requirements of various Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
- Consequence: Vehicles that do not meet all regulatory requirements may have an increased risk of a crash or injury to vehicle occupants.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners and will repurchase the vehicles. The recall began October 6, 2020. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 01E9.
- Model: Volkswagen Passat 2018
- Report Received Date: 2020-09-16
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Volkswagen Golf R and Atlas, 2017 Golf Alltrack and E-Golf and 2016-2018 Passat vehicles. These internal use vehicles were sold without confirmation that they were built to all applicable regulatory requirements and may have been modified prior to sale. As such, these vehicles may fail to comply with the requirements of various Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
- Consequence: Vehicles that do not meet all regulatory requirements may have an increased risk of a crash or injury to vehicle occupants.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners and will repurchase the vehicles. The recall began October 6, 2020. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 01E9.
Latest negative Volkswagen Passat car reviews
Latest positive Volkswagen Passat car reviews
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Vehicle year: 1993
Hi there! I noticed that my Passat was stalling, but I managed to find the problem. It turned out to be the MAF meter on the intake, as the connectors were not making contact. I simply took a pen and pushed them into the MAF, and voila! No more stalling. I was actually planning on selling my Passat, but now I think I'll keep it until it dies!
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Vehicle year: 2005
This is the first new car my wife and I ever bought. She test drove every possible car on the market, from GM's to BMW's, and finally settled on the VW Passat TDI. I went with her and took it for a drive. It's roomy and handles like a sports car, with excellent brakes and everything else. We've put 100k on the car and it's still running perfectly. We plan to keep it for at least 20 more years!
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Vehicle year: 1998
The car still drives and handles well, despite the development of costly electrical problems. Unfortunately, after 142,000 miles, I have decided to donate it on the market due to the expensive repairs required for the sunroof and door locks, which mysteriously stopped working.
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Vehicle year: 2014
Hi there! I just wanted to share my love for cars with you. Over the years, I've owned more than two dozen cars, and this is actually my second VW. I traded in my 2008 BMW 535xi Sport for this car, which had replaced my beloved 2002 Audi A6 2.7T. I have to say, the Passat has reminded me of all the reasons why I'm such a fan of VW Group cars. I was a bit worried that the transition from driving a BMW would be difficult, but I was pleasantly surprised. The Passat is incredibly comfortable, spacious, well-appointed, reasonably quick, and it's great on gas (I was able to drive from NJ to Boston and back on just one tank of regular fuel!). While it may not win any stoplight drag races or autocross rallies, it's definitely one of the best large family sedans out there. I'm so glad I didn't listen to the naysayers!
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Vehicle year: 2007
This car is truly remarkable, achieving an impressive 36 mpg at 55 mph on a level road. The cruise control system makes travelling effortless, adding to the overall driving experience. With 79,000 miles on the clock, I have owned this car for two years and it has never failed to impress me. The stunning styling, both inside and out, is truly eye-catching. In fact, my glacier blue wagon looks better than most other vehicles on the road. Although I initially experienced some issues with the check engine light due to my erratic choice of fuel, I have since followed VW's recommendation of using 91 octane and have not seen the light come on in the past 5 months. This car's emissions system is highly sensitive, which only serves to highlight its exceptional quality and reliability.
Are you having problems with your Volkswagen Passat?
Lesley Wiegand 2025-06-22
Vehicle year: 2010
I purchased a brand new car, but unfortunately, the DSG transmission never worked properly. The car would jerk and leap forward after coming to a complete stop. Despite these issues, I owned the car for 7 years. In the first month, the VW dealership replaced the clutch, mechatronic unit, transmission, auto-hold button, and antenna module under warranty. However, after the warranty expired, I had to replace the brake pump, some valves, coolant pump, tires, fuel pump, rear shock absorbers, and mechatronic unit again. Currently, the antenna module/radio is not working again, and the front sway bar needs replacement. Despite these challenges, the car handles the road very well above 60 miles/hour and has an impressive mileage. The only downside is the acceleration, which has a big delay at lower speeds.
Terrence Sauer 2025-06-21
Vehicle year: 1992
Generally, we really like this car. Although it can be expensive to repair, once it's fixed, it's great. It's comfortable to drive, gets good mileage, and is easy to handle. However, we wouldn't buy another Passat because they tend to be too expensive. We know someone who has a 1996 model and they think it's a bit of a money pit.
Fermin Berge 2025-06-18
Vehicle year: 2010
The car has covered 17,000 miles and is now undergoing its fifth attempt to rectify the severe hesitation from a complete stop. Although the rest of the car is great, the transmission's performance is frustrating and detracts from the overall experience. It is important to note that this issue could potentially be dangerous if it occurs while pulling out into traffic.
Diego Herman 2025-06-16
Vehicle year: 1991
The Passat I purchased as my first car has been a complete nightmare. It has required frequent repairs to the brakes, timing belts, and cooling system, among other issues. Additionally, the car stereo is difficult to replace and comes at a high cost. Unfortunately, these problems seem to persist on a weekly basis.
Emory O'Reilly 2025-06-12
Vehicle year: 1998
This car has proven to be reliable, with only a few minor issues related to the electrical system in the 50K miles I have driven it. While the manual seats have been a bit of a frustration, I have found the performance and handling to be exceptional. The gas pedal's steep angle has resulted in some discomfort in my feet and ankles, but overall, I am confident in the quality of this vehicle.