1995 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 1995 Volkswagen Passat problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 1995 Volkswagen Passat, several common problems have been reported:
- Electrical Concerns: Electrical issues have been a common complaint among Volkswagen Passat owners. These problems can manifest in various ways, including malfunctioning lights, power windows, or issues with the vehicle's electronic systems. Electrical problems can be challenging to diagnose and repair, requiring the expertise of a qualified mechanic to ensure proper resolution.
- Oil Leaks: Another prevalent issue reported by owners is engine oil leaks. Oil leaks can occur due to worn gaskets, seals, or damaged components in the engine. It is essential to address oil leaks promptly to prevent oil starvation, which can lead to engine damage and decreased performance. Regular maintenance and inspections can help detect and resolve oil leak issues early.
- Digital Display Faults: Owners have reported problems with the digital display in the instrument cluster. Issues with the digital display can include dimming, flickering, or complete failure of the display. This can impact the driver's ability to monitor essential vehicle information. Addressing digital display faults may require repairs or replacement of the display unit by a qualified technician.
- Braking System: Some 1995 Volkswagen Passat owners have experienced issues with the braking system. Problems with the brakes can compromise the vehicle's safety and performance. Common brake issues may include brake pad wear, brake fluid leaks, or malfunctioning brake components. Prompt inspection and maintenance of the braking system are essential to ensure safe driving conditions.
- Engine Performance: Engine performance concerns have been raised by owners, indicating issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or reduced power output. These problems can stem from various factors, including fuel system issues, ignition problems, or engine component wear. Proper diagnosis and maintenance are crucial to address engine performance issues effectively.
Addressing these common problems in the 1995 Volkswagen Passat promptly and effectively is essential to ensure the vehicle's reliability, safety, and longevity. Regular maintenance, timely repairs, and professional inspections can help mitigate these issues and keep the vehicle in optimal condition.
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.
1995 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:
- Visibility problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1995 Volkswagen Passat vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1995 Volkswagen Passat
The NHTSA has received 123 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1995 Volkswagen Passat. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1995 Volkswagen Passat vehicles.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-11-25
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: DRIVER SIDE DOOR FAILS TO OPEN 75% OF THE TIME, YOU HAVE TO YANK THE HANDLE MULTIPLE TIMES FOR IT TO OPEN, THE REAR DRIVER SIDE DOOR DOESN'T OPEN FROM THE OUTSIDE ANYMORE, THE OTHER DOORS ARE STARTING TO HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM, WHEN YOU LOCK THE CAR THE REAR PASSENGER DOORS LOCK MECHANISM SLOWLY RISES TO THE UNLOCKED POSITION. DRIVERS SIDE DOOR AND PASSENGER SIDE DOOR MANY TIMES FAIL TO CLOSE. WHEN YOU CLOSE THE DOORS THEY FLY BACK OPEN EITHER IMMEDIATELY AFTER CLOSING OR WHILE OPERATING THE VEHICLE. **THERE IS A SIMILAR COMPLAINT MISPLACED INTO THE AIR CONDITIONER SECTION BY ANOTHER INDIVIDUAL.** *TR
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-11-01
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: HEATER CORE "DOORS " MELTED FROM THE R TYPE ANTIFREEZE BREAKING DOWN TO AN ACID. THIS CAUSE THE HEATERCORE TO BREAK, ANTIFREEZE ENTERED THE CAR THROUGH THE VENTS AND ALSO ODDLY ENOUGH FILLED THE GAUGE CLUSTER WITH STEAM FOGGING THE CLUSTER. IT'S $800 FOR A REPLACEMENT SO I BOUGHT A FITTING AND SOME HOSE CLAMPS AND BYPASSES THE HEATER CORE SO I COULD STILL OPERATE THE VEHICLE WHEN IT WASN'T TOO COLD. HOWEVER WHEN OPERATING THE VEHICLE IN COLD WEATHER ALL THE WINDOWS HAD TO BE DOWN DUE TO YOUR BODY HEAT CAUSING ALL GLASS IN THE VEHICLE TO FOG. REPLACED THE HEATER CORE IN JANUARY, FLUSHED THE RADIATOR AND INSTALLED REGULAR TYPE 50/50 ANTIFREEZE AND NOT THE VW R-TYPE FLUID TO PREVENT BREAK DOWN INTO ACID AGAIN. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-08-15
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC
- Summary: BACKUP LIGHTS DIDN'T TURN ON, WHEN THE BRAKES WERE DEPRESSED THE ACCENT LIGHTS (LIGHTS THAT ILLUMINATE THE GAUGES, WINDOW, A/C & HEATER CONTROLS AND LOCK BUTTONS ETC.) WOULD TURN ON. ALSO IF THE CAR IF THE KEYS WERE TURNED TO THE FIRST NOTCH (STEERING WHEEL UNLOCK) AND THE HEATER VENTS TURNED TO THE ON POSITION BUT NOT BLOWING (DUE TO NO POWER) WHEN YOU PRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL THE AIR WOULD START BLOWING... I TRACED IT DOWN TO AN IGNORANT ELECTRICAL ENGINEER DESIGNING THE CAR. THE REVERSE LIGHTS WERE LOOMED ON TO THE TRUNK ARM, EVERYTIME THE TRUNK WAS CLOSED IT BENT THE WIRE CAUSING THE WIRE TO BREAK AND SHORT OUT OVER TIME, I FIXED THE WIRE AND REROUTED IT LOW AND BEHOLD THE REVERSE LIGHTS ARE APPARENTLY TIED INTO THE ACCENT LIGHTS AND THE A/C & HEATER CONTROLS CAUSING THOSE TO MALFUNCTION IF THE REVERSE WAS SHORTED, MY GUESS IS THEY MUST ALL SHARE A COMMON GROUND. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,PARKING BRAKE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-12-10
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,PARKING BRAKE
- Summary: 5SP VRG PASSAT. EMERGENCY/PARKING BRAKE WHEN APPLIED UNDER 40 DEGREES STICKS ON CAUSING THE REAR WHEEL TO DRAG DOWN THE ROAD FOR UP TO A MILE BEFORE THEY BREAK LOOSE AGAIN AND MOVE FREELY. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-10-29
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: WVWEE83A2SE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE HEATER CORE FAILED ON OUR 1995 VW PASSAT WHILE MY SON WAS DRIVING IT. WITHOUT WARNING IT FAILED AND POURED 190 DEGREE ANTIFREEZE OVER HIS ANKLES. FORTUNATELY HE WASN'T SEVERELY BURNED OR CRASHED THE CAR, BUT IT WAS SERIOUS ISSUE. WE SPOKE TO VW BUT THEY WOULDN'T REPLACE THE HEATER CORE. MANY CUSTOMERS HAVE HAD THE CORE REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY, BUT IT SEEMS TO BE RANDOMLY SELECTED. I HAVE READ ON THE FORUMS OF THIS HAPPENING OFTEN AND WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF THERE IS RECALL THAT VW NEEDS TO ADDRESS. THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-08-17
- VIN: WVWFE83A0SE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE VIBRATES AND IS WORSE WHEN IN HIGH GEAR. PART OF THE FAN FRACTURED CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO OVERHEAT. THERE IS AN NHTSA RECALL, # 95V178000, REGARDING THE ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING: COOLING SYSTEM: FAN. THE VEHICLE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-05-14
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: 1995 PASSAT SIDEWALL BLEW OUT WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH. *TS THE TECHNICIAN WHO PERFORMED THE INSPECTION POINTED TO CRACKS WHICH WERE NEAR THE RIM LINE. *JB
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-01-17
- Crash: 1
- VIN: WVWEE83A8SE
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: 95 PASSAT HEATER CORE RUPTURE FILLING THE VEHICLE CABIN WITH HOT RADIATOR FLUID AND STEAM. WINDSHIELD BECAME COATED WITH ANTI-FREEZE SOLUTION THAT JUST SMEARED AND COULD NOT BE WIPED OFF. VEHICLE LEFT THE ROAD INTO THE DITCH. I WILL BYPASS THE HEATER CORE FOR I CAN'T AFFORD TO HAVE IT REPAIRED AT THIS TIME. CONTACTED VWOA AND NO SPECIFIC RECALLS HAVE BEEN ISSUED.*JB
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-12-02
- VIN: WVWFE83AXSE
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: DT: CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT 35 MPH. THE VENTS STARTED STEAMING. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TOWED TO A MECHANIC. THEY PERFORMED A DIAGNOSTICS TEST, WHICH INDICATED THAT THE HEATER CORE MALFUNCTIONED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT AT A LOCAL DEALERSHIP, AND NO REPAIRS HAVE BEEN MADE. *AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-04-01
- VIN: WVWCC83A8SE
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: DT: CALLER CAN NOT OPEN DOOR FROM THE OUTSIDE. SHE HAS TO USE THE HANDLE ON THE INSIDE OF ALL THE DOORS EXCEPT THE REAR PASSENGER DOOR. DEALER SAID THEY NEVER HEARD OF THIS. MANUFACTURER SAID THEY COULD NOT DO ANYTHING TO HELP HER.*AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-10
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: WVWEE83A1SE
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: 1. NORMAL DRIVING ON A SURBURBAN ROAD AT ABOUT 45MPH. ALL OF A SUDDEN, SMOKE/STEAM FROM THE VENTS, A COMPLETELY FOGGED WINDSHIELD, A SWEET SMELL, AND SCALDING HOT COOLANT ONTO MY FEET, ALMOST CAUSING ME TO HIT A PEDESTRIAN WALKING ALONGSIDE THE ROAD. 2. IT WAS THE HEATER CORE. A VERY COMMON PROBLEM TO 80'S AND 90'S VW PASSENGER CARS. SO NOW I HAVE NO WORKING HEATER (LUCKILY ITS SUMMER) AND MY CAR WONT REACH ITS MAX COOLING CAPACITY. THUS, CAR RUNS HOT. 3. BECAUSE I AM A COLLEGE STUDENT AND CANNOT AFFORD A $1200USD FIX, I HAVE BYPASSED IT WITH A COPPER U-PIPE. THE PART IS AVALIBLE, AND VWOA HAVE DONE A MASSIVE NUMBER OF 'GOOD-WILL' FIXES. I'M STILL TALKING WITH THEM TO COME OF WITH A RESOLUTION.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-02-06
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: HEATER CORE ON THE VR6 POWERED VEHICLES IS THE VALEO BRAND, KNOWN TO FAIL. IT JUST BLEWS COOLANT THROUGH THE DASH VENTS ALL OVER THE COUPE INSIDE.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-08
- VIN: WVWCC83A0SE
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
- Summary: ABS LIGHT FAILURE - CONTINUE LIGHT ON AND POSSBILE BRAKE FAILURE
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-13
- VIN: WVWEE83A5SE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: HEATER CORE EXPLODING, NO EVENTS LEADING UP TO THIS I WAS SIMPLY GOING FROM A STOPLIGHT WHEN SMOKE STARTED POURING IN THROUGH THE VENTS AND ENGINE COOLANT GOING EVERYWHERE. I HAVE NOT REPLACED ANYTHING YET, BUT THE HEATER CORE IS DESTROYED.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-05-18
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: RACK AND PINION STEERING FAILED. AS RESULT STEERING MALFUNCTIONED. HOWEVER TCONSUMER WAS ABLE TO GAIN CONTROL. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-03-17
- VIN: WVWEE83A2SE
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I WAS STARTING MY 1995 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT VR6 (MANUAL), AND IT STARTED UP JUST FINE, BUT AS I STARTED TO GET GOING, THE CAR DIED. I LOST ALL ELECTRICAL FUNCTIONS OF THE CAR INITIATED BY THE IGNITION SWITCH, INCLUDING POWER BRAKES, POWER STEERING, AND HEADLIGHTS. I FOUND OUT THAT MY IGNITION SWITCH HAD MALFUNCTIONED. I CALLED VW OF AMERICA (1-800-822-8987), AND THEY TOLD ME THAT A RECALL WAS OUT FOR THE 1996 AND 1997 MODELS. THE ONLY DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THESE TWO MODEL YEARS AND MY MODEL YEAR IS THE SWITCH IN THE ON BOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM FROM OBD 1 TO OBD 2. I KNEW FROM EXPERIENCE THAT THE IGNITION SWITCH WAS THE SAME FOR ALL 1995 TO 1997 PASSATS, BUT JUST TO BE SURE, I CALLED STEVENS CREEK VOLKSWAGEN PARTS DEPARTMENT (1-408-492-1200). THE GUY THERE TOLD ME THAT PART NUMBERS MATCHED THROUGH ALL 3 YEARS, AND THAT THE IGNITION SWITCH MALFUNTCIONS AN ALL 3 MODEL YEARS INCLUDING 1995. SO, I CALLED VW OF AMERICA AGAIN, AN ASKED THEM WHY THEY DIDN'T RECALL MY MODEL YEAR. THEY STATED THAT "VW COULD HAVE RECTIFIED THE PROBLEM" WHICH IS IMPOSSIBLE WHEN ALL 3 PART NUMBERS ARE THE SAME. THEY THEN SAID THAT THEY WOULD LAUNCH THEIR OWN INVESTIGATION INTO IT, AND TOLD ME TO CALL NHTSA. MY FINAL SAY ON THIS MATTER IS THAT IT DEFINITELY IS LIFE THREATENING, BECAUSE THE IGNITION SWITCH IS ELECTRICAL, AND CAN MALFUNTCION AT AND TIME, CAUSING YOU TO LOSE POWER STEERING, BRAKES, AND LIGHTING ON THE ROAD. I WAS LUCK BECAUSE I JUST GOT GOING, AND WAS ABLE TO PUSH THE CAR BACK BY MY HOUSE. MEANWHILE, VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA IS CUTTING CORNERS TO SAVE MONEY BY ONLY RECALLING THE MODEL YEARS THAT YOU HAVE TESTED, EVEN THOUGH THE MALFUNCTIONING PART IS THE SAME INALL 3 MODEL YEARS: 1995, 1996, AND 1997. AS A MEMBER OF A VW VORTEX FORUM, I WILL TELL OTHERS WITH THIS SAME PROBLEM TO WRITE IN TO YOU. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: FRONT END WAS MAKING A RATTLING NOISE. ALSO, RADIATOR OVERHEATED. TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALER, AND THEY REPLACED THE HEAD GASKET. *AK
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-12-10
- VIN: WVWEE83AXSE
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: REAR DOOR LATCH IS MALFUNCTIONING. LATCH RELEASES WHEN DRIVING
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,SEAT BELTS,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-10-15
- VIN: WVWCE83A4SE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,SEAT BELTS,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: TIMING CHAIN STRETCHED AND VALVES WENT AGAINST PISTONS. ENGINE LIGHT GOES ON AND OFF ALL THE TIME. IGNITION SWITCH FAIL AND LIGHTS GO OFF. RIGHT WINDOW DOESN'T WORK. IGNITION COIL IS DEFECTIVE.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-01-09
- VIN: WVWEE83A7SE
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: 1995 VW PASSAT. DOOR LOCKS HAVE BEEN REPAIRED SEVERAL TIMES BY AUTHORIZED VW DEALER AND REPAIR SHOP. DOORS DO NOT OPEN IN COLD WEATHER DESPITE CAR BEING IN HEATED GARAGE.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-10-07
- VIN: WVWEE83A1SE
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE ABS LIGHT CAME ON MY 1995 PASSAT. THE DEALER DIAGNOSIS INDICATED I NEEDED A NEW ABS HYDRAULIC UNIT AT A COST OF $1,768.00. I CONSIDER THIS AN OUTRAGEOUS AMOUNT FOR SUCH AN IMPORTANT SAFETY ITEM. I CONTACTED VWOFA CORPORATE AND THEY TOLD ME THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO BECAUSE THE CAR WAS OUT OF WARRANTY. *LA
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-02-01
- VIN: WVWEE83A7SE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: IN FEBRUARY OF 2003 ON ONE OF THE COLD DAYS, THE FAN SYSTEM DIDN'T WORK AND AS A RESULT CAR OVERHEATED AND BLEW OF THE HEAD GASKET. TOTAL COST TO FIX $2000. SMALL RECALL OF COOLING FAN COST ME $2000 AND IN SPITE OF CALLS TO CUSTOMER SERVICE DEPARTMENT, NO COST WAS BORN BY THE COMPANY. *NLM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-02
- VIN: WVWEE83AXSE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: COOLANT LEAKING OUT FROM UNDER THE DASH. MORE THAN LIKELY IT IS THE HEATER CORE. NOT SUPPOSED TO HAPPEN THIS SOON, CAR IS ONLY YEARS 8 OLD.*AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-03-25
- VIN: WVWEE83AXSE
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE HEATER CORE RUPTURED. *JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WVWGC83A5TE
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE VEHICLE'S SPEEDOMETER STARTED TO GO HIGH THEN LOW, THE FUEL GAUGE STOPPED REGISTERING. TOOK TO DEALER AND THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER WAS REPLACED. PH
1995 Volkswagen Passat recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1995 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.
Negative 1995 Volkswagen Passat car reviews
Positive 1995 Volkswagen Passat car reviews
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I purchased this car two years ago from a dealer with 110K miles. It's a five-speed and was enjoyable to drive for the first month. However, it has had some issues since then. Currently, only the driver's door opens from the outside, the rear passenger-side window does not work (I was told it would be expensive to fix), the rear defrost does not work, the antenna broke in half, and the clutch is slipping. I've had to replace the fuel pump (which was quite expensive) along with many other parts. The wheels are difficult to find and are quite expensive, not to mention that they are performance tires and only last 20K miles. Additionally, there is no glove compartment or front cup holders. It's a shame that VW didn't include these features.
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I'm currently on my third Passat and I'm loving it! After selling my 91 16v, I decided to upgrade to a VR6. This car is amazing! It's incredibly sturdy and doesn't require a timing belt or any other repairs (VR6's have a chain). Not only does it drive great, but it also saves me money by avoiding costly mechanic bills. If you're not convinced about VWs, I highly recommend taking one out for a spin. That's what I did 6 years ago, and I've been a VW enthusiast ever since!
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This was my first new car purchase and I've always wanted a VW. In 1995, this car offered the most features for the money of any comparable vehicle, bar none. I've had much pleasure driving it and will continue to do so indefinitely, especially considering its ridiculously low resale value. By the way, I don't understand why everyone is dogging the cup holders. (Even Consumer Reports didn't like them in 1995.) I think the cup holders are one of its best features. They're perfectly positioned and can hold a great range of sizes and shapes, including a regular-sized coffee mug if you fold the neck brace down and use only the non-slip base.
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Driving this car is a real pleasure, and it has been very reliable mechanically. It handles curves and different driving conditions with ease. However, there are some electrical issues that have been a bit frustrating. The ABS light is on most of the time, and the power windows are only working occasionally. It used to be that adjusting the mirrors would get them working again, but now two of them are frozen. I'm hesitant to replace the motors since they do work occasionally, and it seems like the issue is more electrical than mechanical.
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This has been the most reliable and fun car I have ever owned. I just bought a 2002 Passat GLX, but I will never part with this '95.
Other years of Volkswagen Passat
Are you having problems with your 1995 Volkswagen Passat?
Gino Ritchie 2024-02-25
I bought this car used with 100K on it. Although I have always loved VWs, this one has been problematic. It's a fun and fast car to drive once you get out of first gear. Unfortunately, I have experienced the same issues as another reviewer, such as door latches that stick/freeze, broken power windows, broken heated seats, and new ignition coils and wires. I would love to try a new Passat, but I am uncertain about the quality of workmanship. It would be great if VW could update their quality to retain customers.
Vernon Rolfson 2024-02-03
I purchased my 95 Passat when it was just a year old and had only 20K miles on it. Unfortunately, at 43280 miles, the engine experienced a compression problem and had to be completely rebuilt by the dealer under an extended warranty. Later, at 92114 miles, the intermediary oil shaft broke, causing the valves to bend. The dealer suggested that it would be more cost-effective to replace the engine with a rebuilt one rather than attempting to fix it, which would have cost $5700 for a car that was worth perhaps $7000. It's worth noting that less than four weeks prior, I had paid the same dealer $1300 for a 90K service and various repairs, including the front window, serpentine belt, and coolant flush. My wife's Jetta is currently having its engine replaced under warranty at 49K miles. It's important to note that all of these miles were city/highway miles, with no off-roading or abuse involved.