1993 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.
Social links
Common 1993 Volkswagen Passat problems
The Volkswagen Passat, produced since 1973, has been a popular choice for many car buyers due to its comfort, spacious trunk, and roomy seats. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems, particularly in certain model years. Here are the most common issues with the 1993 Volkswagen Passat based on complaints from its owners:
- Digital Display Fault: The digital display on the instrument cluster stopping to work is another common problem in the 1993 Volkswagen Passat, with 179 owners reporting this issue. This problem can occur due to high temperatures or humidity, causing the display to function intermittently or fail completely. Replacing the entire instrument cluster is the recommended solution, with an estimated repair cost of $101 to $128 for parts and labor.
- Engine Oil Leaks: Engine oil leaks due to failing valve cover gaskets are a common problem in the 1993 Volkswagen Passat, with 214 owners reporting this issue. This problem can affect several engine options, including the 1.8-liter four-cylinder turbo, 1.9-liter four-cylinder diesel turbo, 2.0-liter four-cylinder, 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo, 2.8-liter V6, and 3.6-liter V6. The repair cost for this issue can range from $156 to $224, depending on the engine option and labor cost.
- ABS Light Due to ABS Control Module Failure: The most common problem reported by over 250 owners of the 1993 Volkswagen Passat is the ABS light illuminating due to ABS control module failure. This problem can cause the ABS light to light up, brake lights to start blinking, and other indicator lights to turn on. In some cases, this issue can lead to failing brakes, transmission problems, and no power for acceleration. The repair cost for this issue can range from $1,628 to $1,783, depending on the labor cost and parts required.
In conclusion, the 1993 Volkswagen Passat has several common problems, including engine misfires, digital display fault, engine oil leaks, and ABS light due to ABS control module failure. These issues can lead to a reduction in engine performance, safety concerns, and additional repair costs. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of these common problems and consider them before purchasing a used 1993 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.
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 a Volkswagen Passat a good reliable car?
Is a used Volkswagen Passat saloon 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.
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.
1993 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
- Electrical system problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1993 Volkswagen Passat vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1993 Volkswagen Passat
The NHTSA has received 70 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1993 Volkswagen Passat. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1993 Volkswagen Passat vehicles.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-09-10
- VIN: WVWJD4318PE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: HEATER CORE BAD IN 1993 VW GLX, VERY COMMON IN MY EXPERIENCE. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-07-30
- VIN: WVWJF4314PE
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1993 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FUEL LEAKS AT THE END OF THE HOSE AND HE SMELLED GAS. THE VEHICLE DID NOT RUN AS EFFECTIVELY WHEN THE FUEL BEGAN LEAKING. THE FAILURE OCCURRED WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH. THE POWERTRAIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 115,000.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-06-04
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: FRONT SEAT BELTS FAIL TO POWER, MUST USE EMERGENCY BELTS. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-05-10
- VIN: WVWJD4311PE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AND NOISY FAN MOTOR SHAFT. FOUND TWO RECALLS REFERRING TO THESE TWO PROBLEMS. NEVER RECEIVED RECALL LETTERS FROM MANUFACTURER. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-11-01
- VIN: WVWJD4312PE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: FAULTY HEATER CORES/HEATER EXCHANGERS LOCATED BEHIND THE DASHBOARD IS A PERVASIVE PROBLEM. HEATER CORE LEAKED. *BF ANTI FREEZE LEAKED INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT AROUND THE FEET OF THE PASSENGER. THE CONSUMER FOUND THAT THIS WAS A COMMON PROBLEM. RECALL# 98V295000. *SC
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-12
- VIN: WVWJD4314PE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TURN ON AIR CONDITIONER, OR HEATER, AND A STEAM OF ANTIFREEZE COATS WINDSHIELD, AND IT GETS COMPLETELY FOGGED OVER TO THE POINT WHERE I CANNOT SEE. HAS OCCURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. 1993, PASSAT GLX. VR6. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-05-06
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: WVWND4310PE
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS AT A COMPLETE STOP WHEN STEAM STARTED COMING THROUGH THE AIR VENTS AND THE WINDOWS FOGGED UP. HOT ANTI FREEZE LEAKED IN AND SCORCHED THE DRIVER'S FEET. THIS OCCURRED BECAUSE THE HEATER CORE CAME APART AT THE SEAM. *AK *JB
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WZWGF4316PE
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT 60 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION. THE MECHANIC INFORMED THE DRIVER THAT THE TRANSMISSION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE PROBLEM STILL OCCURS. *MR
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-12-21
- VIN: WVWND4319PE
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: LETTER CONCERNING THE MANNER IN WHICH VOLKSWAGEN CHOOSE TO HANDLE A RECENT FAILURE ON THE CONSUMERS VEHICLE. (NAR) *PH WHILE DRIVING THE CONSUMER VEHICLE HEATER CORE EXPLODED. *CB
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-12-21
- VIN: WVWND4319PE
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT ROUGHLY 25 MPH, HEATER CORE FAILED. INTERIOR OF VEHICLE IMMEDIATELY BEGAN FILLING WITH FOUL SMELLING DENSE SMOKE, AND WINDOWS BECAME COATED WITH A FILM. DRIVER QUICKLY PULLED OFF THE ROAD, WHICH FORTUNATELY WAS EASY AS WE WERE IN A RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOOD. DRIVER AND PASSENGERS BELIEVED THE ENGINE WAS ON FIRE, AS THE TRUE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT IMMEDIATELY KNOWN. WE QUICKLY EVACUATED ALL 4 PASSENGERS, INCLUDING A 5 YEAR OLD CHILD WHO WAS STRAPPED IN A CAR SEAT. THIS WAS A TERRIFYING EXPERIENCE. WE HAD EXITED A BUSY FREEWAY LESS THAN 1 MINUTE BEFORE. IF THIS FAILURE HAD OCCURRED WHILE WE WERE STILL ON THE FREEWAY, WE MAY NOT HAVE BEEN ABLE TO PULL OFF THE ROAD SAFELY PRIOR TO THE DRIVER'S VISION BEING COMPLETELY IMPAIRED. THIS COULD HAVE PROVED DISASTROUS. AFTER THE ISSUE WAS IDENTIFIED, AND WE BEGAN TO DO SOME RESEARCH, WE WERE VERY UPSET TO FIND THAT THIS APPEARS TO BE A RECURRING PROBLEM WITH OUR VEHICLE. WE WERE ALSO STUNNED TO READ THE COMPLAINT SUMMARIES ON THE NHTSA SITE WHICH NOTED THAT SOME DRIVERS/PASSENGERS WERE INJURED BY HOT STEAM/COOLANT LEAKING INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. IT IS AMAZING THAT A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN OR RECALL HAS NOT YET BEEN ISSUED FOR THIS PROBLEM. AS OF THE TIME THIS COMPLAINT IS BEING FILED, WE ARE ALSO DRAFTING A LETTER TO VOLKSWAGEN TO URGE THEM TO ADDRESS THIS FAILURE. A FAILURE THAT CAN CAUSE TOTAL LOSS OF VISIBILITY IN A BRIEF PERIOD OF TIME, AND THEREFORE LOSS OF CONTROL OF A VEHICLE, SHOULD BE CONSIDERED EXTREMELY SERIOUS. WE STRONGLY URGE THE NHTSA TO TAKE APPROPRIATE MEASURES TO ENSURE THAT THIS FAILURE IS ADDRESSED.*AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-11-05
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WVWJD4314PE
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE LEFT FOG LIGHT STARTED SMOKING, AND THEN ON FIRE. I WAS SITTING INSIDE THE VEHICLE, CLEANING IT. THE LIGHTS WERE ON, INCLUDING THE FOG LIGHTS. I SMELLED BURNING PLASTIC, AND DIDN'T THINK MUCH OF IT AT FIRST, IT GOT WORSE, SO I GOT OUT OF THE CAR AND SAW SMOKE COMING FROM AROUND THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE BUMPER. I GOT UNDER THERE TO SEE WHAT'S GOING ON, AND SECONDS LATER A PIECE OF BURNING PLASTIC WITH THE BULB STILL IN IT FELL INTO THE INSIDE OF THE BUMBER, APPARENTLY IT SEPARATED FROM THE MAIN UNIT OF THE LIGHT. I HAD TO STUFF IT WITH SNOW TO STOP THE FIRE. THERE WAS NO SERIOUS DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE BEYOUND THE LIGHT ITSELF. LATER ON I PURCHASED A PAIR OF USED FOG LIGHTS FROM EBAY TO REPLACE MINE. WHEN TRYING TO REPLACE THEM, IT TURNED OUT THAT THE LEFT LIGHT ON MY VEHICLE WAS ALSO BURNT, AND THE PIECE WITH THE BULB FELL OUT OF IT TOO. THE LIGHTS I BOUGHT ALSO TIRNED OUT TO BE DAMAGED IN SIMILAR WAY, BUT JUST MELTED. THE REASON I MARK PROPERTY DAMAGE ON THIS FORM, IS BECAUSE TO REPLACE ONE OF THE UNITS COSTS $135, WITHOUT ANY GUARANTEE THAT THIS SAME THING WILL NOT HAPPEN AGAIN. I BELIEVE THAT THIS IS AN OBVIOUS AND HAZARDOUS DESIGN FLAW, AND VW SHOULD REPLACE THE UNITS WITH FIRE PROOF ONES. VW SHOUD ALSO PAY FOR THAT, NOT I.*AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-09-09
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING HEATER CORE WAS STEAMING THE ENGINE. DEALER NOTIFIED. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-03-15
- VIN: WVWJD4311PE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: LEAKAGE OF HOT ENGINE COOLANT FROM THE HEAT EXCHANGER LOCATED IN THE VEHICLES PASSENGER COMPARTMENT CAUSED MINOR BURNS TO DRIVER'S LOWER LEG AREA. ADDITIONALLY, STEAM FROM THIS EVENT FILLED THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT MAKING IT DIFFICULT TO NAVIGATE THE VEHICLE. THIS EVENT REQUIRED THE DRIVER TO EXECUTE EMERGENCY ACTIONS TO AVOID A COLLISION AND SAFETY STOP THE VEHICLE. I UNDERSTAND THAT VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICAN, INC. IMPLEMENTED A RECALL CAMPAIGN FOR THE 1992-1994 VR6 CORRADO WHICH EXPERIENCED A SIMILAR FAILURE (NHTSA INVESTIGATION/ACTION NO. EA98-012). *NLM
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-08-29
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: WVWJD4312PE
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: AFTER DRIVING FROM CT TO WASH, D.C., I WAS PARKING MY 1993 VW PASSAT. I HEARD A "POP" SOUND, AND IN < 5 SECONDS, THE CAR FILLED WITH ANTIFREEZE STEAM & SCALDING ANTIFREEZE POURED INTO THE DRIVER SIDE COMPARTMENT. AS THE CAR WAS NEARLY PARKED, WE WERE ABLE TO JUMP OUT OF THE CAR. I TOOK MY CAR TO THE WHEATON SERVICE CENTER IN WHEATON, MD. VIA PHONE, THE MECHANICS IMMEDIATELY SUSPECTED THE HEATER CORE. IRONICALLY, THERE WAS ANOTHER 1993 PASSAT GETTING FIXED FOR THE SAME PROBLEM WHEN I GOT THERE. ONCE INVESTIGATED, MY HEATER CORE HAD CRACKED. THEY NOTED THAT THIS WAS A RECURRING PROBLEM IN VWS. I CALLED THE VW CONSUMER CARE LINE. AFTER LENGTHY NEGOTIATION, VW AGREED TO REIMBURSE ME FOR THE $788 REPAIR, IF I BROUGHT THE BROKEN PART AND THE NEW PART'S PACKAGING TO THE CAR'S HOME DEALERSHIP, RIVERSIDE MOTORS, IN CT. I WAS REIMBURSED SEVERAL MONTHS LATER, AFTER WEEKLY FOLLOW UP PHONE CALLS TO "REMIND" VW OF THEIR REIMBURSEMENT COMMITTMENT. I AM UPSET AND CONCERNED ABOUT THIS MATTER FOR SEVERAL REASONS: 1) I BOUGHT THE CAR USED IN 1998. THE ONLY ISSUE WITH THE CAR WAS THAT THE WINDOWS TENDED TO "FOG UP", PARTICULARLY WHEN THE A/C OR HEAT WAS ON, WHICH HAD BEEN LOGGED AT SERVICE VISITS. AT NO TIME WAS THE HEATER CORE LOOKED AT. BUT, THERE ARE NUMEROUS HEATER CORE AND "DEFOGGING" CONSUMER COMPLAINTS. FURTHER, I BEGAN THE REVIEW OF COMPLAINTS AFTER LISTENING TO A RECENT NPR CAR TALK SHOW, B/C THEY REFERENCED THE PROBLEM WITH VW HEATER CORES. WHAT IS CONSPICUOUSLY MISSING IS A SAFTEY BULLETIN FOR THIS KNOWN PROBLEM. 2) AS MANY OF THE COMPLAINTS NOTED, (SEE OID ID 755858 FOR EXAMPLE), THEY COULD HAVE BEEN KILLED OR SERIOUSLY INJURED, AS WAS THE CASE FOR ME. 30 MINUTES EARLIER & I WOULD HAVE BEEN DRIVING 65MPH ON THE HIGHWAY. WHILE I UNDERSTAND THAT EVERY COMPLAINT CANNONT BE INVESTIGATED, THIS IS A FAILURE THAT CAN RESULT IN A LIFE-OR-DEATH SITUATION. I EXPECT THAT YOU WILL INVESTIGATE THIS PROBLEM FURTHER, AND AT MINIMUM ISSUE A SAFETY BULLETIN.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-10-01
- VIN: WVWND4315PE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE POWER WINDOWS OPERATE BY THEMSELVES-NEED TO PULL FUSE TO STOP THIS, BUT THEN THEY ARE NOT OPERABLE AT ALL--THIS COULD BE EXTREMELY DANGEROUS IN TERMS OF ESCAPE FROM VEHICLE, AND IS VERY INCONVENIENT FROM A VENTILATION STAND POINT. THE ENGINE STALLS WHEN CORNERING AND BRAKING, CREATING VERY DANGEROUS SITUATIONS. *JB ***DIMSII IVOQ ENTRY POSTED AFTER 12/12/02 CUT-OVER TO ARTEMIS****760759
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-03-21
- VIN: SVSJ4318PE1
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WAS DRIVING 25MPH WHEN FILM STARTED DEVELOPING ON WINDOWS. DRIVER WAS NOT ABLE TO SEE OUT OF WINDSHIELD. HAD SMELLED ANTIFREEZE INSIDE VEHICLE. DROVE TO DEALERSHIP AND WAS INFORMED BY MECHANIC THAT HEATER CORE HAD FAILED, CAUSING ANTIFREEZE TO LEAK, WHICH CAUSED THE FILM ON WINDOWS. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WVWJF4311PE
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-12-13
- VIN: WVWJD4315PE
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE HEATER COIL BLEW AND CAUSED THE CAR TO RAPIDLY FILL UP WITH STEAM TO THE POINT THAT DRIVER WAS UNABLE TO SEE OUT ANY WINDOWS. DRIVER WAS TRAVELING IN THE FAST LANE OF INERSTATE 285 IN THE ATLANTA AREA AND AMAZINGLY WAS ABLE TO STOP THE VEHICLE AND JUMP OUT WITHOUT BEING KILLED. THIS FAILURE OF THE HEATER COIL AND SUBSEQUENT RELEASE OF STEAM INTO THE VEHICLE IS CERTAINLY A SAFETY HAZARD THAT COULD HAVE RESULTED IN THE DEATH OF THE DRIVER.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-09-01
- VIN: WVWJD4319PE
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: 115F DEGREE DAY. USED A/C. PARKED CAR. RETURN 15 MIN LATER. FLOOR/DASH/INSTRUMENTS WET/FOG/HOT.*AK
VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-07-12
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: WVWJD4310PE
- Components: VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, STEAM AND HOT ENGINE COOLANT FLUIDS STARTED COMING OUT OF VENTILATION SYSTEM, BURNING DRIVERS FEET AND LEGS, AND REDUCING VISIBILITY OUT OF VEHICLE. DEALERSHIP EXAMINED VEHICLE AND MADE REPAIRS TO HEATER CORE. THEN ON AUGUST 2, 2001, AIR CONDITIONING STARTED MAKING A STRANGE NOISE, AND STARTED PRODUCING STEAM AND HOT FLUIDS FROM THE VENTILATION AGAIN. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION/ATTACHMENTS.*AK
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-05-01
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WVWJF4318PE
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: AIR CONDITIONER STOPPED WORKING. MECHANIC HAS ADVISED THAT AIR CONDITIONER'S WIRING MELTED AND GLUED TO EACH OTHER. A MINOR FIRE ERRUPTED, CAUSING MELTING. PLEASE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. *AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-06-01
- VIN: WVWJD4317PE
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: I HAD TWO BLOWOUTS OF THIS GOODYEAR EAGLE GA TOURING TIRE OVER A PERIOD OF 10 MONTHS DRIVING FREEWAY SPEED OF 70 WHEN ONE BLOWOUT OCCURRED AND 50 MPH WITH THE OTHER. EVEN THOUGH I ACCEPTED A SETTLEMENT OF $176.04 FROM GOODYEAR, THIS AMOUNT WAS SLIGHTLY HIGHER THAN THE COST OF ONE TIRE. I HAD 4 GOODYEARS ON THE CAR. (TIRESIZE: 215/50R15)( DOT NUMBER: TIRE SIZE: 215/50R15 )
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-08-29
- VIN: WVWJE4311PE
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE HEATER CORE RUPTURED AND FLOODED THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT WITH STEAM AND HOT COOLANT. FORTUNATELY, THE CAR HAD JUST COME TO A COMPLETE STOP. THIS HAS OCCURED IN THE ONLY OTHER VW VEHICLE I HAVE OWNED, A 1986 JETTA GL. THAT VEHICLE WAS RECALLED FOR THIS VERY SAME PROBLEM. I FIND IT VERY DISTURBING THAT THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT OF THE VEHICLE CAN BE AFFECTED BY SUCH AN EQUIPMENT FAILURE. I CAN ACCEPT THE HEATER CORE LEAKING IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT, BUT NOT EXPLOIDING LIKE A BOMB. WITNESSESS THOUGHT THE CAR WAS ON FIRE. LUCKILY, MY WIFE AND CHILD WERE NOT CRUISING DOWN THE FREEWAY AT 65 MPH.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WVWJF431FPE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: POSSIBLE ENGINE FAILURE CAUSED CONSUMER TO SMELLED GAS FUMES, MINUTES LATER THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE. NLM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-01-01
- VIN: WVWND4312PE
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CAR FAILS TO START WHEN TURNING IGNITION ON. TAKES REPEATED ATTEMPTS. REQUIRES UNLOCKING ADJUSTABLE STEEERING WHEEL AND 'THUMPING' THE WHEEL UP AND DOWN. OCCASIONALLY STARTS ON FIRST ATTEMPT, MOSTLY AFTER SEVERAL THUMPS. THREE TIMES TOOK OVER 45 MINUTES TO GET CAR STARTED. DEALER REPLACES STARTER THE FIRST TIME I TOOK IT IN FOR REPAIR. THREE MORE DEALER VISITS HAVE BEEN LABELED 'WORKS OK', EVEN THOUGH I HAD TO START CAR FOR SERVICE MANAGER. CAME BACK 'CHECKS OK'. I SUSPECT CORROSION OF SOME KIND IN THE IGNITION WIRING. VERY FRUSTRATING.*AK
1993 Volkswagen Passat recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1993 Volkswagen Passat.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:FAN
- Summary: IMPROPER MATERIAL WAS USED IN MANUFACTURING THE RADIATOR FAN MOTOR SHAFT CAUSING THE SHAFT TO WEAR AND BECOME NOISY.
- Consequence: A WORN AND NOISY FAN MOTOR SHAFT CAN SEIZE RENDERINGTHE FAN MOTOR INOPERATIVE, EVENTUALLY CAUSING THE ENGINE TO OVERHEAT AND STALL. A STALLED VEHICLE IN TRAFFIC CAN INCREASE THE POTENTIAL FOR A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE COMPLETE COOLING FAN ASSEMBLY ON VEHICLE HAVING THE POTENTIAL SHAFT MATERIAL PROBLEM. DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW FAN BLADE INCLUDING A NEW LOCK NUT ON VEHICLE WITH LOOSE FAN BLADE LOCK NUTS.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT
- Summary: LOCK NUTS USED TO HOLD THE LEFT AND RIGHT FRONT AXLES TO THE SUSPENSION STRUTS MAY NOT HAVE BEEN PROPERLY MANUFACTURED. THE LOCK NUTS MAY BREAK AND CAUSE SEPARATION OF THE AXLE FROM THE SUSPENSION STRUTS.
- Consequence: SEPARATION OF THE AXLE CAN CAUSE THE VEHICLE TO PULL TOTHE SIDE OF THE SEPARATION AND RESULT IN LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL AND ANACCIDENT.
- Remedy: REPLACE THE LOCK NUTS.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: THE FUEL HOSE ATTACHED TO THE FUEL DISTRIBUTION RAIL ON THE ENGINE MAY SHRINK BEYOND THE CLAMP FORCE OF THE FUEL HOSE CLAMPS, ALLOWING FUEL TO LEAK.
- Consequence: FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT CAN CAUSE AN UNDERHOOD FIRE IF THE FUEL COMES IN CONTACT WITH A SOURCE OF IGNITION.
- Remedy: REPLACE THE FUEL HOSE ATTACHED TO THE FUEL RAIL AND INSTALL A NEW SPRING TYPE SELF-TIGHTENING CLAMP.
Negative 1993 Volkswagen Passat car reviews
Positive 1993 Volkswagen Passat car reviews
-
I must say, I have put in a lot of effort to 'rejuvenate' my Passat, but let's be real... everyone complains about things breaking 'all the time'. However, my car is 15 years old, so I can't really complain. As a father of two, the back seat alone makes this car amazing. We were almost going to buy a Corolla until we realized we couldn't fit an infant seat in it. Although I do wish it had cup holders, I can live without them considering the many other benefits it offers. By following the recommended services religiously, I managed to get 39.5 mpg on my last highway trip and regularly get 30+ with mixed driving. My powertrain is still original even after 175,000 miles. My wife is hoping to see the 300,000 mile mark :)
-
The car looks great! I opted for the fully loaded version, which includes heated seats, a moonroof, leather seats, power locks, automatic power windows and moonroof, a CD changer, a trip computer, and so much more. It's definitely the best value for the price. I absolutely love it!
-
Great ride! It's wonderful to hear that your family of four had very few problems and rode well together. As someone who is 6'5
-
Hey there! I just bought this car on eBay. It needs some work, but I think it's worth every penny.
-
You've got an excellent vehicle there! It's perfect for trips!
Other years of Volkswagen Passat
Are you having problems with your 1993 Volkswagen Passat?
Akeem Little 2024-10-28
Hi there! I recently sold my Passat after owning it for several years. While I enjoyed driving it, I did experience some reliability issues during my ownership. Between 75k and 125k miles, I had to replace the entire exhaust system, all rotors, and calipers. Additionally, my air conditioner dials melted in the sun, which prevented the a/c from working properly. I also had to replace the emergency brake twice due to cold weather, and the BBS rims rusted in spots. Despite these challenges, I still have fond memories of my Passat. Thanks for reading!
Judah Flatley 2024-09-27
This car has had some issues, but I have taken care of them promptly. I have driven it for 3.5 years and put 30,000 miles on it, bringing the total to 143,000 miles. I have replaced the ignition coil, upper radiator hose, rear shocks, muffler, brake pads and rotors, and flushed and filled the transmission. Although the cruise control only works intermittently and the door handles need replacing, I have taken care of the necessary repairs. While it has been a bit of a challenge, I have enjoyed driving this car. However, I would not recommend purchasing a Passat from the 90s.
Abraham Hauck 2024-08-18
I had a wagon with a 5-speed manual that I drove a lot. Unfortunately, the fan relays would blow out every 18 months, and the muffler cost $600 and had to be replaced even if you just needed the pipe done. Additionally, they wanted to swap the steering rack too, not just the entire front end. However, I found that it was cheaper to just buy new tires every year. The drivetrain became misaligned, creating an interesting dogleg in the shift pattern. Eventually, it decided it had had enough of Cleveland and just started to fall apart at age 8. During summer months, wax sealant would drip out of every orifice. I hope this helps!
Donald Thiel 2024-08-15
I bought my 1993 Volkswagen Passat with 76,000 miles on it. The previous owner had a dispute with a local repair shop who toasted the old engine by draining oil during an oil change and forgetting to add oil again and driving vehicle, which screwed up the engine. So 30,000 miles ago a brand new engine was put in. The car runs well, operates smoothly, and is great on highway trips. I recently had to replace the electric ignition switch and distributor, which cost me $625 in total for parts and labor. Despite the potential for costly repairs, I still think the overall quality of the car is really nice!
Miguel Nienow 2024-07-08
I purchased this used car with approximately 52,500 miles on the odometer. Although it initially drove well for about 3,000 miles, it began to stall when going over speed bumps. After ruling out the possibility of a fuel issue, I have noticed that it occasionally cuts off when coasting at low speeds and making left turns has become a risky endeavor. While I have enjoyed this car, the daily game of chicken has become tiresome.