1990 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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Common 1990 Volkswagen Passat problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Volkswagen Passat 1990, several common problems have been reported:
- Clock Spring Failure:
- Clock spring problems in Volkswagen Passat cars have persisted despite recalls. This issue can lead to a disabled driver's side airbag, horn, and steering wheel functions.
- Ignition Coil Failure:
- Ignition coil failures can cause issues with starting the vehicle, leading to rough idling, misfires, and even stalling. This problem can result in poor engine performance and potential safety hazards.
- Oil Sludge in the 1.8L Turbo Engine:
- Oil sludge buildup in the 1.8L turbo engine can lead to engine failure. This issue is critical as it can cause the engine to seize, resulting in costly repairs or even the need for a new engine.
- Defective Timing Chain:
- A defective timing chain can cause engine performance issues, including rough running, engine misfires, and potentially catastrophic engine damage if the timing chain fails. This problem requires immediate attention to prevent severe engine damage.
- ABS Light Due to ABS Control Module Failure:
- ABS light illumination due to ABS control module failure can compromise the effectiveness of the anti-lock braking system, affecting the vehicle's ability to brake safely in emergency situations. This issue poses a significant safety concern that needs prompt resolution.
These problems highlight critical issues that Volkswagen Passat 1990 owners have faced, ranging from safety concerns to engine reliability and performance issues. Addressing these problems promptly through proper maintenance and timely repairs is crucial to ensure the longevity and safety of the vehicle.
What is the common problem in VW Passat?
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 bad years for the Passat?
We recommend staying away from the 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2010, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015 models. They may require pricey fixes from the user. The faults for the Volkswagen Passat lie in the engine, electrical, and fuel system.
Is Passat high maintenance?
The 2021 Passat and Arteon have lower maintenance costs than similar midsize sedans by Toyota, Honda, or Hyundai. The 2021 Atlas Cross Sport has the lowest maintenance costs of the midsize SUV category. The 2021 Tiguan has lower maintenance costs than other compact SUVs by Honda, Toyota, and Subaru.
How long do VW Passat engines last?
Typically, a Passat can last between 200,000 and 250,000 miles with proper maintenance and care. This translates to about 13 to 17 years of service, assuming an average annual mileage of 15,000 miles. Of course, many Passats won't reach this mileage ceiling and will largely depend on several factors.
What is the common problem in VW Passat?
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.
Are old Passats reliable?
According to carparts.com, the Passat generally scores above average in reliability with few major repairs during ownership. The Volkswagen Passat is one of the most reliable family vehicle choices on the market. If you stick with a dependable year, you're getting the best of the best.
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.
Which model of Passat is best?
Best Volkswagen Passat for...
- Best for Economy – VW Passat GTE 1.4 TSI DSG. ...
- Best for Families – VW Passat 2.0 TDI 150 SE Business. ...
- Best for Performance – VW Passat 2.0 BiTDI DSG 4Motion GT. ...
- One to Avoid – VW Passat 1.6 TDI S. ...
- Engine 2.0 TDI BMT 150. ...
- Trim level SE Business. ...
- Gearbox DSG.
1990 Volkswagen Passat car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volkswagen Passat problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Visibility problems
- Power train problems
- Seat belts problems
- Suspension problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1990 Volkswagen Passat vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1990 Volkswagen Passat
The NHTSA has received 45 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1990 Volkswagen Passat. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1990 Volkswagen Passat vehicles.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-11-10
- VIN: 3WVWFB4318L
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: HI I PURCHASED A 1990 VW PASSAT THE VIN # IS [XXX] .... THE HEATER CORE BLEW ON THIS VEHICLE, I BY PASSED THE HOSES 2 STOP THE HEATER CORE FROM LEAKING, IT SMELLED LIKE SYRUP AND VISIBILITY WAS BAD IF I HAD TO USE THE WINDSHIELD DEFOGGER , I HAVE RECENTLY HEARD OF THIS RECALL AND CHECKED YOUR SITE AND SAW THAT THIS RECALL I HEARD ABOUT WAS TRUE. SO NEXT I WENT TO THE VOLKSWAGEN DEALER(JACK DANIELS, LOCATED IN FAIR LAWN NJ). I GAVE HIM THE VIN # AND HE SAID THERE WEREN'T ANY RECALLS ON THIS VEHICLE. I DON'T KNOW WHAT I DO NEXT SO IF YOU CAN HELP ME OUT THANKS. *NM UPDATED 07/17/2012 *JS INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-10
- VIN: WVWGB4310LE
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WIFE WAS DRIVING ALONG WHEN ALL OF A SUDDEN, HEATER CORE BURST, FILLING INTERIOR OF CAR WITH HOT COOLANT AND STEAM. HER VISION WAS OBSTRUCTED BY THE STEAM ON THE INSIDE OF THE WINDSHIELD AND HE HAD TO BRING THE CAR TO A COMPLETE STOP IN TRAFFIC. MY DAUGHTER, WHO WAS IN THE PASSENGER SEAT, HAD SOME COOLANT SPILL ONTO HER SHOE. VOA HAS ISSUED A RECALL ON THIS EXACT PART BEFORE ON OTHER SERIAL NUMBER RANGES AND OTHER MODELS, BUT FOR SOME REASON, THEY CLAIMED MY VIN WAS OUTSIDE OF RECALL CRITERIA, EVEN THOUGH THE SAME EXACT PART SUFFERED THE SAME EXACT FAILURE.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-10-07
- VIN: WVWFB4310CE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: RECALL 96V115000: THE VEHICLE DID NOT HAVE ANY HEAT, THE VEHICLE WAS CHECKED AND THE DEALER FOUND A FAULTY HEATING CORE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM AND INDICATED THAT THERE WAS A RECALL ON THE HEATER CORE, BUT THE CONSUMER'S VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED DUE TO VIN. *AK *SC *JB
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-06
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WVWGB4314LE
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MANY ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS: POWER WINDOWS, IGNITION SWITCH, PASSENGER SIDE PASSIVE SEAT BELT, AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION INTERMITTENTLY WILL NOT SHIFT INTO 4TH GEAR (TURN KEY OF AND ON TO RESET TRANSMISSION). FINALLY, THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT CAUGHT FIRE APPEARS TO BE ELECTRICAL CAUSING WIDE-RANGING DAMAGE TO HOOD AND OTHER ENGINE COMPONENTS. *JB
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-06
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WVWGB4314LE
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MANY ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS: POWER WINDOWS, IGNITION SWITCH, PASSENGER SIDE PASSIVE SEAT BELT, AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION INTERMITTENTLY WILL NOT SHIFT INTO 4TH GEAR (TURN KEY OF AND ON TO RESET TRANSMISSION). FINALLY, THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT CAUGHT FIRE APPEARS TO BE ELECTRICAL CAUSING WIDE-RANGING DAMAGE TO HOOD AND OTHER ENGINE COMPONENTS. *JB
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-05-01
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: THE RIGHT BALL JOINTS AND SWAY BARS HAD TO BE REPLACED AT LOW MILEAGE. NLM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-04-01
- VIN: WVWGB4318LE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY
- Summary: RECALL 96 V 115 000/ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM: VEHICLE EXPERIENCED OVERHEATING IN WHICH COOLANT / STEAM WAS COMING INTO VEHICLE. MANUFACTURER NOTIFIED, AND INFORMED CONSUMER THAT THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT PART OF RECALL DUE TO VIN. *AK HEATING CORE FAILED AND LEAKED THROUGH THE VENTS. THE CONSUMER'S VEHICLE WAS EXCLUDED FROM REPAIR WHILE THE SAME FAILURES AS IN THE RECALL OCCURED. *YH
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-11-01
- VIN: WVWFB4317LE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WATER PUMP FAILED AND ENGINE OVERHEATED. CURRENTLY, THERE IS A LEAK. *AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-03-11
- VIN: WVWFB4314LE
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: ON TWO SEPARATE OCCASIONS (03/11/00 AND 07/03/00) I WAS TRAVELLING AT A SPEED IN EXCESS OF 75 MPH AND HEARD A SUDDEN SNAP COMING FROM ONE OF MY TIRES. HOWEVER, THE SOUND WAS VERY MUCH LIKE THE SOUND WHEN SOMETHING GETS CAUGHT UNDERNEATH THE CAR MOMENTARILY WHILE PASSING OVER IT. THE FIRST OCCASION INVOLVED THE LEFT FRONT TIRE, THE SECOND INVOLVED THE RIGHT REAR TIRE. ON BOTH OCCASIONS I WAS ABLE TO PULL OVER SAFELY TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. ON EACH OCCASION I FOUND THE TIRE'S TREAD SEPARATED FROM THE REST OF THE TIRE, LEAVING THE STEEL BELT UNDERNEATH TOTALLY EXPOSED. BOTH INCIDENTS INVOLVED THE SAME MODEL OF FIRESTONE TIRE, THE FIREHAWK SS10. THE AFFECTED TIRES REMAINED COMPLETELY INFLATED, SO HAD I NOT PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AFTER THE INITIAL SNAP, I WOULDN'T HAVE NOTICED THAT SOMETHING WAS WRONG. I FEAR THAT IF I HAD NOT PULLED OVER IMMEDIATELY, I MAY HAVE BEEN INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT WHEN THE REST OF THE TREAD SEPARATED FROM THE TIRE, PERHAPS ONLY A FEW MILES DOWN THE ROAD. I NOW HAVE 3 NEW BRIDESTONE TIRES ON MY CAR AND FEAR FOR MY SAFETY.( DOT NUMBER: TIRE SIZE: P215/60R14 )
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-05-20
- VIN: WVWFB4319LE
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WE DID NOT REALIZE OTHER OWNERS HAD THE SAME PROBLEMS WITH THIS MODEL YEAR UNTIL WE READ YOUR REPORTS.WE DID NOT CONTACT THE MANUFACTURE BECAUSE WE THOUGHT OUR PROBLEMS MAY BE ONE OF A FEW. OTHERS ARE "HARD START, ROUGH/HUNTING AT IDLE ,HARSH ENGAGEMENT & FINALLY NO 4TH GEAR SHIFT. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-01-20
- VIN: WWWGB431XLE
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: RECALL NUMBER 96V115000; CONSUMER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE RECALL FAILURE. CONSUMER CONTACTED THE DEALER, DEALER STATED CONSUMER'S VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN RECALL DUE TO VIN. *AK *ML
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WVWGB4313LE
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKE PADS AND ROTORS FAILED. YH
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WVWGB4313LE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: MOTOR MOUNTS FAILED. YH
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WVWGB4313LE
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: FRONT END VIBRATION CAUSED THE TIRE TO WEAR OUT AND WHEELS TO BEND. YH
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WVWGB4313LE
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CV JOINT FAILED. YH
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WVWGB4313LE
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: FRONT WHEEL BEARING FAILED. YH
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WVWGB4313LE
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: SPRING STRUTS AND STRUT MOUNTS FAILED. YH
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-01
- VIN: WVWFB4316LE
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE ENGINE STALLS WHEN I APPLY QUICK BRAKES AT 50 MPH. ALSO, WHEN I LEAVE THE HIGHWAY, REDUCING VEHICLE SPEEC TO 30 MPH, UPON APPLYING BRAKING THE ENGINE FREQUENTLY STALLS. THIS IS AN DANGEROUS DRIVING CONDITION WHICH CAN CAUSE ACCIDENT/CRASH. THIS ALSO HAPPENS WHEN I APPLY QUICK BRAKES AT 30 MPH. THE LACK OF VACCUM PRESENT DUE TO ENGINE STALLING CAUSES THE POWER BRAKES TO FAIL, REQUIRING EXCESSIVE FOOT PRESSURE AND EMERGENCY BRAKES ENGAGEMENT IN ORDER TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THIS VEHICLE HAD AN RECENT TUNE-UP WITHOUT ANY SUCCESS TO THE PROBLEM*AK.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-09-29
- VIN: WVWFB4314LE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS DRIVING AT 30 MPH AND NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM THE ENGINE DUE TO THE OIL TOP BEING LEFT OFF WHICH CAUSED ANIT-FREEZE FLUID TO LEAK ONTO THE ENGINE. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-03-17
- VIN: WVWFB4317LE
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: NO SUMMARY INCLUDED FOR THIS VEHICLE. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-06-01
- VIN: WBWFB4316LE
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WHEN CONSUMER STARTED THE HEATER VENTILATION THE VEHICLE WAS SO HOT INSIDE THAT GLASS WINDOWS WERE FOGGY, AND THE TEMPERATURE WAS VERY HOT. CONSUMER COULDN'T DRIVE IN THAT SITUATION. DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE CONTACTED.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WVWFB4314LE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE OVERHEATS, CAUSING THE COOLANT PRESSURE TO RISE, RESULTING IN LEAKAGE. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-12-18
- VIN: WVWGB4313LE
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: FRAYED CABLE CABLE CAUSED PASSENGER SIDE PASSIVE RESTRAINT MECHANISM NOT TO FULLY RETRACT.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-06-16
- VIN: WVWSB4312LE
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: CONSUMER NOTICED PASSENGER'S FRONT SIDE AUTOMATIC SEAT BELT DOES NOT LOCK IN PLACE ALL THE WAY, ALSO IT MOVES BY ITSELF; BECOMES LOOSE FROM TOP RETRACTOR . MAKES NOISE, OVER NIGHT DRAINES BATTERY. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-08-22
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: WVWFB4317LE
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE HEATER CORE LEAKED INSIDE CAR, CAUSING BURN INJURY TO DRIVER.
1990 Volkswagen Passat recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1990 Volkswagen Passat.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
- Summary: IN THE EVENT THE ENGINE OVERHEATS AND THE VEHICLE IS OPERATED CONTINUOUSLY IN THAT CONDITION, THE COOLANT PRESSURE WILL RISE TO A LEVEL AT WHICH THE HEAT EXCHANGER COULD LEAK.
- Consequence: A LEAKING HEAT EXCHANGER WILL ALLOW HOT COOLANT TO ESCAPE CAUSING INJURY TO THE DRIVER'S FEET OR COULD STEAM UP THE INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE TEMPORARILY IMPAIRING THE DRIVER'S VISIBILITY, INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE HEAT EXCHANGER ON THESE VEHICLES.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE VENTURI TUBE LOCATED IN THE THROTTLE VALVE HOUSING CAN BECOME LOOSE AND FALL AGAINST THE THROTTLE PLATE.
- Consequence: THE VENTURI TUBE CAN PARTIALLY BLOCK THE THROTTLE PLATEAND PREVENT IT FROM RETURNING TO ITS FULL IDLE POSITION, RESULTING IN UNWANTEDENGINE SPEED WHEN THE VEHICLE IS PLACED IN A FORWARD OR REVERSE GEAR.
- Remedy: REPLACE THE PRESS-FIT VENTURI TUBE WITH A THREAD TYPE TUBE.
Negative 1990 Volkswagen Passat car reviews
Other years of Volkswagen Passat
Are you having problems with your 1990 Volkswagen Passat?
Adrien Strosin 2024-09-17
This car has unfortunately been quite unreliable. However, I have gained a lot of experience in maintaining it, having spent over $13k (not counting gas and insurance) on it. Despite having been stranded 4 times, I have been able to fix it each time and have learned a lot about car maintenance in the process. While it is true that the automatic transmission has been a challenge, I have had it replaced by VW at 50k (before I owned it) and rebuilt by VW at 110k while I owned it. Although the fuel pump and pre-pump have failed at least twice each, I have been able to address these issues and keep the car running. While the power windows are not the strongest, they have not been a major issue. Overall, I have learned a lot from owning this car and have been able to keep it running despite its challenges.
Alexys Schmitt 2024-08-05
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 actually know someone who has a 1996 model and they think it's a bit of a money pit.
Royal Watsica 2024-02-26
Three transmissions and lots of aggravation later, I've finally decided to give up. I think it's time for a change and I'm considering getting a Honda for my next vehicle. I believe a car should be built to last and not give the kind of trouble that I've experienced with my VW. Unfortunately, I found VW service to be expensive and the work was not good on a number of occasions.