1991 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 1991 Volkswagen Passat problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 1991 Volkswagen Passat, common problems with this car include:
- Air Conditioning System Problems:
The air conditioning system in the 1991 Passat may encounter issues, such as the need for the replacement of components like the receiver drier assembly or the evaporator temperature sensor. Addressing these problems is crucial for maintaining a comfortable driving environment.
- Ignition Coil Failure:
Another common problem reported by owners is the failure of the ignition coil. This component is essential for the proper functioning of the ignition system, and its failure can lead to issues like misfiring, rough idling, and difficulty starting the vehicle.
- Radiator Issues:
The radiator in the 1991 Passat may require replacement due to leaks, corrosion, or other malfunctions. A faulty radiator can result in engine overheating and potential damage if not addressed promptly.
- Timing Belt Replacement:
Owners have reported the need for timing belt replacement in the 1991 Volkswagen Passat. A worn or broken timing belt can cause serious engine damage, making timely replacement essential to prevent costly repairs.
- Door Lock Actuator Malfunction:
Malfunctioning door lock actuators have been reported as a common problem in the 1991 Passat. Issues with door lock actuators can lead to difficulties in locking and unlocking doors, affecting the security and convenience of the vehicle.
- Suspension Control Arm Bushings Replacement:
The suspension control arm bushings in the 1991 Passat may require replacement. Worn bushings can affect the vehicle's handling, stability, and overall ride comfort, highlighting the importance of addressing this issue promptly.
- Power Steering Hose Replacement:
Owners have reported the need for power steering hose replacement in the 1991 Volkswagen Passat. A leaking or damaged power steering hose can lead to steering issues, making it crucial to address this problem to ensure safe and efficient steering operation.
- Liftgate Support Strut Replacement:
The liftgate support struts in the 1991 Passat may require replacement. Malfunctioning support struts can lead to difficulties in opening and closing the liftgate, affecting the convenience and usability of the vehicle.
These common problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt repairs to ensure the optimal performance and longevity of the 1991 Volkswagen Passat.
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.
Is the Volkswagen Passat reliable?
The Passat got a good score of 96.4% in the executive car class in our most recent reliability survey, and came in fifth place out of 26 cars.
Is Volkswagen 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 many miles will a Volkswagen Passat last?
between 100,000 and 200,000 miles
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.
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.
Is Passat expensive to maintain?
The average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Volkswagen Passat is $639, compared to an average of $526 for midsize cars and $652 for all vehicle models. The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of a vehicle.
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.
1991 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
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1991 Volkswagen Passat vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1991 Volkswagen Passat
The NHTSA has received 29 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1991 Volkswagen Passat. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1991 Volkswagen Passat vehicles.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-08-22
- VIN: WVWGB4310ME
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: BURNING HOT ANTI-FREEZE AND STEAM CLOUDED THE CABIN OF MY VW PASSAT WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY, CAUSING AN UNSAFE DRIVING SITUATION AND POTENTIAL HEALTH RISKS FROM BREATHING THE HOT FUMES.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-09
- VIN: PLEASE FILL
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE TRAVELING ON THE HIGHWAY THE VEHICLE LOST POWER, STARTED VIBRATING AND SHUT DOWN. PLEASE FILL IN ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, DEALER IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. PH
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-07-25
- VIN: WVWFB431XME
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL INJECTIN SYSTEM: ACCUMULATOR ( DELIVERY SYSTEM) WAS LEAKING GAS TO POINT IT WAS POURING OUT. GAS FUMES WERE STRONG FROM IN & OUTSIDE. VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN AUTO MOTOR GARAGE WHICH HAD SEEN A COMMON PROBLEM POSSIBLY DUE TO ROAD SALT ON STREET ADDED TO CORROSION. *AK FUMES POSSIBLY COULD HAVE IGNITED WHEN STOPPING AND COULD HAVE BEEN DANGEROUS. *YH
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-07-05
- VIN: WVWEB0313ME
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE TIMMING BELT FAILED AT 152081 KM'S THIS IS IN CANADA. I WAS TOLD THAT I COULD CALL YOUR SITE AND REPORT THIS PROBLEM. THE TIMING BELT IS SUPPOSE TO BE GOOD FOR 100000 KM. THE TIMING BELT ONLY LASTED FOR 52 000 KM . I REPORTED IT TO VOLKSWAGEN NORTH AMERICA BUT THEY JUST GAVE ME THE RUN AROUND. IF THERE IS ANYTHING THAT YOU CAN DO OR I CAN DO PLEASE WRITE TO ME AT [email protected] OR CALL ME AT 403-212-1034 THANK YOU LEN.*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WVWGB4317ME
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: ODOMETER MILLAGE IS TURNED BACK. YH
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WVWGB4317ME
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: ODOMETER MILLAGE IS TURNED BACK. YH
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-04-06
- Fire: 1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING, VEHCLE CAUGHT ON FIRE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AND BURNED. VEHICLE WAS TOTALLED. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-10-01
- VIN: WVWFB4314ME
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: TEMPERATURE AND GAS GAUGE WERE FIXED ON MANY OCCASIONS BY THE DEALER BUT NEVER FULLY FIXED. WORK ONLY WHEN PUSHED ON THE DASH COVER. THERE IS A SERVICE BULL ON THIS BUT PROBLEM, BUT IT DIDN'T HELP FIX IT. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-03-29
- VIN: WVWFB431XME
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: HAD SMELLED GAS FUMES INSIDE VEHICLE. DIFFERENTIAL PRESSURE REGULATOR WAS LEAKING ONTO THE AIR CONDITIONER CLUTCH, WHICH WAS A SAFETY HAZARD. DIFFERENTIAL PRESSURE REGULATOR BODY (PLASTIC) HAD DELAMINATED FROM THE BRASS CORE AND WA SLEAKING HEAVILY. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-03-29
- VIN: WVWFB431XME
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: DIFFERENTIAL PRESSURE REGULATOR MOUNTED ON FUEL DISTRIBUTOR STRUCTURALLY FAILED. COMPOSITE BODY DELAMINATED FROM BRASS CORE, CAUSING STEADY FUEL LEAK WHENEVER IGNITION KEY IS ON AND ELECTRIC FUEL PUMP IS POWERED. LEAKING GASOLINE DROPS DIRECTLY ON THE ELECTRIC CLUTCH ON THE AIR CONDITIONING COMPRESSOR. THIS IS A SERIOUS FIRE HAZARD, ESPECIALLY IF THE AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM IS TURNED ON. AN ELECTRIC SPARK OR THE HEAT GENERATED BY THE ELECTRIC COMPRESSOR CLUTCH COULD IGNITE THE LEAKING GASOLINE. *AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-12-02
- VIN: WVWGB4318ME
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE AUTOMATIC SEATBELT CONTROL MODULE WILL DRAIN THE CARS BATTERY IN A MATTER OF HOURS. TO USE THE CAR THE PASSIVE RESTRAINT SYSTEM MUST BE DISABLED. IT IS UNCLEAR IF THE BELTS EVEN WORK MANUALLY UNDER THESE CIRCUMSTANCES. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-08-08
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE POWER WINDOWS IN THE 1991 PASSAT SUDDENLY DIED. THERE IS STILL ELECTRICAL POWER TO THE MECHANISM INSIDE THE DOOR, BUT THE TRACK/GUIDE OR WHATEVER MAKES THE WINDOW SLIDE UP SMOOTHLY IS BROKEN. CURRENTLY THEY ARE STUCK IN THE UP,SEALED POSITION BECAUSE IF THEY GO DOWN, THEY DONT GO BACK UP COMPLETELY. THE CAR HAS SUSTAINED SOME WATER DAMAGE FROM WHEN THEY COULD NOT BE PUT UP.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TIMING BELT BROKE CAUSING DAMAGE TO VALVES ON TWO OCCASIONS.
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: AIR CONDITIONER CONTROLS FAILED THREE TIMES, A/C FAN FAILED.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-05-01
- VIN: WVWFB4312ME
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE FUEL PUMP SITS IN A PLASTIC CONTAINER AND THE CONTAINER CRACKED, SUSPECTS THAT IT WAS CAUSED FROM VIBRATION. HOWEVER THE FUEL LEAKS OUT AND LEAKS APPROXIMATELY SIX INCHES FROM THE REAR RIGHT WHEEL. THIS PROBLEM COULD RESULT IN A FIRE IF SOMEONE WALKS BY WITH A CIGARETTE OR MATCH, THIS PROBLEM HAS OCCURRED TWO TIMES, DEALER CANNOT DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-05-20
- VIN: WVWGB431XME
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS DRIVING ON HIGHWAY IN STOP AND GO TRAFFIC UNDER NORMAL ROAD CONDITIONS, SUDDENLY THE ABS LIGHT SENSOR CAME ON AND VEHICLE LOST BRAKES FOR APPROXIMATELY THREE HOURS. ABS SENOR LIGHT WENT OUT, AND ABS SYSTEM RESTORED BRAKES. DEALER NOTIFIED. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-06-01
- VIN: WVWGB431XME
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: MASTER CYLINDER HAS AN INTERNAL HYDRAULIC LEAK WHICH MAY LEAD TO A BRAKE FAILURE.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-05-20
- VIN: WVWGB431XME
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: CONSUMER DROVE ON HIGHWAY DURING NORMAL ROAD CONDITIONS IN STOP AND GO TRAFFIC. SUDDENLY ABS SENSOR LIGHT CAME ON. COSUMER LOST BRAKES. THREE HOURS LATER, THE SENSOR LIGHT WENT OUT AGAIN AND BRAKES RETURNED. AFTER 6 MONTH SIMILAR CONDITION REOCCURRED. DEALER NOTIFIED. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-04-14
- VIN: WVWFB0019ME
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: INTERIOR HEATING CORE BROKE, CAUSING SMOKE TO FILL THE CAR WHILE DRIVING. ALSO, HEATER FAN MOTOR SWITCH FAILED.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE VEHICLE'S TIMING CHAIN BROKE, CAUSING VEHICLE TO STALL AND EXTENSIVE DAMAGE TO VEHICLE.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE HEATER FAN FAILED, CAUSING THE UNIT TO MELT AND BURN.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-05-08
- VIN: WVWFB4312ME
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: MOTORIZED SEAT BELTS FAILED, OPENED WHILE DRIVING AND STAYED OPEN. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WVWFB4318ME
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WAS DRIVING AND SMOKE CAME OUT OF THE VENTILATION SWITCH . PLEASE DESCRIBE . *AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-08-16
- VIN: WVWRK21G5MW
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: FRONT BUMPER FELL OFF.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-05-09
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: VEHICLE CAN BE PUT INTO GEAR FROM PARK WITHOUT KEY IN IGNITION DUE TO LACK OF INTERLOCK SYSTEM. *DSH
1991 Volkswagen Passat recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1991 Volkswagen Passat.
- 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 1991 Volkswagen Passat car reviews
Positive 1991 Volkswagen Passat car reviews
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I bought my 91 Passat 5spd when I was just 16 years old, and it had 192k on the odometer. Over the next year and a half, I managed to get it up to 212k. I'm not sure what the review '91 Passat breaks more than it works by Richie' was talking about, because I found the stereo to be the easiest out there. The factory stereo uses the same 'DIN' and overall dimensions as ANY aftermarket stereo, so they just slide right in. In my opinion, this Passat (2.0L DOHC 16Valve) was the best car I've ever owned, even compared to my '93 Saturn SL2 auto (1.9L DOHC), '91 Ford Crown Victoria (5.0L V8), '94 Pontiac Grand-Am (quad-4) auto, '85 Cutlass Supreme (V6) (pimp ride), and '88 Lincoln Towncar (5.0L V8) (fully optioned w/ sunroof).
Other years of Volkswagen Passat
Are you having problems with your 1991 Volkswagen Passat?
Larue Denesik 2024-07-06
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 being stranded 4 times, I have been able to fix it each time and learned a lot in the process. The automatic transmission has been a challenge, but 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 transmission is difficult to find, I have been able to keep it running. The fuel pump and pre-pump have failed at least twice each, but I have been able to replace them and keep the car running. The power windows have been a bit weak, but I have been able to maintain them. Overall, I have learned a lot from this car and have been able to keep it running despite its challenges.
Alexie Connelly 2024-06-17
The car's style and features are impressive, but unfortunately, the quality and reliability do not meet expectations. Repair costs are high and can exceed the original cost of the car, especially with automatic transmissions. It is important to carefully consider these factors before making a purchase.
Tobin Welch 2024-04-14
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.
Moises Tremblay 2024-02-01
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.
Destin Shields 2024-01-19
I recently purchased this car from my sister, who had bought it as is. Unfortunately, she had a difficult time getting it to pass emissions and had to have the front brakes and numerous belts changed. Despite barely driving it for a year, the car has had several issues since I acquired it, including problems with the CV boots, timing belt, 2 V-belts, rear brakes, alternator, rear muffler, pipe leading from exhaust manifold to cat converter, heater core, ignition switch, and rear left passenger window motor.