1997 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 1997 Volkswagen Passat problems
The Volkswagen Passat, produced since 1973, has been one of the most successful models from the German automaker, second only to the Golf. However, like any other vehicle, the Passat has had its fair share of problems, with some model years being more troublesome than others. This article will focus on the 1997 Volkswagen Passat and its common problems based on complaints from owners.
One of the most frequently reported issues with the 1997 Volkswagen Passat is related to the engine, with 39 complaints recorded on CarComplaints.com. These engine problems include stalling or misfiring, reduced acceleration with engine hesitating or jerking, poor fuel economy, bad idle performance, and warning lights. Engine stalling or misfiring can be caused by various factors, such as faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors. Reduced acceleration and engine hesitation can be attributed to a clogged fuel filter, dirty mass airflow sensor, or vacuum leaks. Poor fuel economy can be a result of inadequate tire pressure, a dirty air filter, or malfunctioning sensors. Bad idle performance may be due to a vacuum leak, faulty idle air control valve, or dirty throttle body. Lastly, warning lights can indicate a wide range of issues, from minor sensor malfunctions to significant engine problems.
Another area of concern for 1997 Volkswagen Passat owners is the electrical system, with 21 complaints recorded on CarComplaints.com. These electrical issues include malfunctioning power windows, power door locks, and interior lights, as well as blown fuses and electrical shorts. Power window and door lock failures can be caused by worn-out motors, broken regulators, or faulty switches. Interior light malfunctions can be due to blown bulbs, damaged wiring, or faulty switches. Blown fuses and electrical shorts can be traced back to various sources, such as faulty wiring, corroded connectors, or overloaded circuits.
The transmission is another problematic component in the 1997 Volkswagen Passat, with 14 complaints recorded on CarComplaints.com. These transmission issues include slipping, jerking, and delayed engagement, which can be caused by low transmission fluid levels, worn-out clutch plates, or damaged torque converters. In some cases, transmission problems can be resolved with a simple fluid change or clutch adjustment. However, in more severe cases, the transmission may need to be replaced entirely.
Lastly, the 1997 Volkswagen Passat has faced issues with its power train, with 11 complaints recorded on CarComplaints.com. These power train problems include noisy differentials, worn-out CV joints, and broken axles. Noisy differentials can be a sign of worn-out gears, damaged bearings, or insufficient lubrication. Worn-out CV joints and broken axles can be caused by various factors, such as rough driving conditions, improper maintenance, or manufacturing defects.
In conclusion, the 1997 Volkswagen Passat has had its share of problems, primarily related to the engine, electrical system, transmission, and power train. While these issues can be frustrating for owners, many of them can be resolved with proper maintenance and timely repairs. If you are considering purchasing a 1997 Volkswagen Passat, it is essential to have a thorough inspection of the vehicle and be aware of its potential problem areas.
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.
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.
1997 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
- Electrical system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Latches/locks/linkages problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Volkswagen Passat vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Volkswagen Passat
The NHTSA has received 80 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Volkswagen Passat. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Volkswagen Passat vehicles.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-05-05
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WVWGG83A9VB
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT TDI. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A FIRE ERUPTED SPONTANEOUSLY INSIDE THE DASHBOARD WHICH CAUSED ALL OF THE WIRES TO MELT AND THE WINDSHIELD TO FRACTURE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CONTACTED WHO DETERMINED THAT THE FIRE STARTED IN THE AREA WHERE THE IGNITION WAS LOCATED. NO INJURIES WERE REPORTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 200,000. UPDATED 6/12/12 *CN THE CONSUMER STATED THE FIRE OCCURRED IN THE AREA OF THE IGNITION AND LOCKING COMPONENTS WERE SERVICE, REPLACED AND REMOVED 15 DAYS BEFORE THE FIRE. THE FIRE DEPT DETERMINED THE FIRE STARTED IN THE IGNITION.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-07-21
- VIN: WVWEE83A2VB
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. WHENEVER THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO ACTIVATE THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS OR HEADLIGHTS, THEY FAILED TO TURN ON. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED BY THE DEALER. THERE WERE NO WARNINGS PRIOR TO THE FAILURES. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 62,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,000.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-07
- VIN: WVWEE83A0VB
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. WHILE PARKING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT HEARD AN UNFAMILIAR NOISE AND THE AIR CONDITIONING BEGAN TO BLOW HOT AIR. HE EXITED THE VEHICLE AND DISCOVERED WATER LEAKING FROM THE UNDERCARRIAGE. HE BELIEVES THAT THE HEATER CORE MAY HAVE FAILED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 157,000.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-11-06
- VIN: WVWGG8383VB
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT. THE CONTACT HAS TAKEN HIS VEHICLE TO THE GARAGE AND THE DEALER EIGHT TIMES. THE ENGINE HEAD WAS REPLACED AT 42,000 MILES AND THE TURBO CHARGE IS CURRENTLY FAILING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REPAIRS COST MORE THAN THE ACTUAL PRICE OF THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE COMPUTER NEEDED TO BE REPLACED IN ORDER TO CORRECT THE TURBO CHARGE. THE REPLACEMENT WOULD COST $1,000. THE VIN WAS VERIFIED, BUT APPEARS TO BE INVALID. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 46,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 38,000. UPDATED 03/18/08. *LJ UPDATED 03/18/08 *TR
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-08-05
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: WVWFE83A3VE
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: ON SUNDAY, AUGUST 5TH, 2007, WHILE DRIVING THE CAR WITH MY 7 YEAR OLD SON IN THE BACK SEAT, DENSE, NOXIOUS 'STEAM'/SMOKE BEGAN TO COME OUT OF ALL VENTS AND AROUND THE DASH AREA IN MY WELL-MAINTAINED VOLKSWAGEN. HOT COOLANT ALSO LEAKED INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT OF MY PASSAT ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE. NOTE THAT THIS OCCURRED WHILE AIR CONDITIONING (A/C) WAS ON & CONTINUED TO POUR OUT OF VENTS WITHOUT A/C ON. MY 'LOW COOLANT' INDICATOR LIGHT (RED LED IN INSTRUMENT CLUSTER) ALSO BEGAN FLASHING. FORTUNATELY, I WAS ABLE TO GET THE CAR (AND MY SON) HOME WITHOUT OVERHEATING AFTER STOPPING ON THE SIDE OF A BUSY WASHINGTON DC THOROUGHFARE (WISCONSIN AVENUE), OPENING THE FOGGED-UP WINDOWS, CLEANING THE INTERIOR OF THE FRONT WINDSHIELD, AND REFILLING THE COOLANT RESERVOIR/'OVERFLOW' TANK WITH ANTIFREEZE PURCHASED NEARBY. SINCE THE 'STEAM' SMELLED LIKE COOLANT/ANTIFREEZE, I IMMEDIATELY SUSPECTED THAT THIS WAS DUE TO A FAILURE OF MY CAR'S HEATER CORE. I SUBSEQUENTLY CONFIRMED THIS DIAGNOSIS AFTER DROPPING OFF THE PASSAT AT MY LONG-TIME, CERTIFIED, MECHANIC, BEAHM'S AUTO SERVICE OF SILVER SPRING MARYLAND. BEAHM'S DIAGNOSED, BUT DID NOT REPLACE MY HEATER CORE ON TUESDAY, AUGUST 7TH, 2007 (THE HEATER CORE HAS BEEN TEMPORARILY BYPASSED SO THAT THE CAR COULD BE DRIVEN WITHOUT ADDITIONAL COOLANT LOSS OR OF THE CAR'S WINDOWS/INTERIOR). MY PASSAT IS OTHERWISE IN EXCELLENT, WELL-MAINTAINED CONDITION WITH ONLY 116,000 MILES, NO ACCIDENTS, AND IT PASSED WASHINGTON DC SAFETY AND EMISSIONS INSPECTION IN AUGUST, 2007. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-02-01
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE VOLKSWAGEN 1997 PASSAT GLX - V6 ENGINE. FULL INSTRUMENT CLUSTER - SPEEDOMETER, TACHOMETER, FUEL GAUGE, DIGITAL CLOCK... EVERYTHING ON IT, DOES NOT OPERATE WHEN OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE IS BELOW 50 DEGREES. CAR MUST BE DRIVEN FOR 10MIN., OR ABOUT 8-12 MILES, BEFORE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER RETURNS TO NORMAL FUCTION. CAR IS BEING DRIVEN WITHOUT FUNCTIONING SPEEDOMETER, AND IT IS DIFFICULT TO ESTIMATE MY SPEED AND DOES NOT FEEL SAFE. THERE WERE NO SIGNIFICANT EVENTS LEADING UP TO THE FAILURE, EXCEPT INSTRUMENT CLUSTER WOULD MAKE A BUZZING NOISE WHEN CAR STARTED AND TRIP MILEAGE WOULD RESET. THIS STARTED A FEW MONTHS BEFORE COMPLETE FAILURE BEGAN. THIS PROBLEM GETS WORSE AS TIME PASSES, AS THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER PROBLEM OCCURS IN WARMER WEATHER NOW. PROBLEM USED TO OCCUR WHEN TEMPERATURE WAS BELOW 35 DEGREES. NOW HAPPENS AT 50 DEGREES. *TR
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-04
- VIN: WVWFE83A1VE
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: HEATER CORE FAILED- CLOUDING THE WINDOW TO A DEGREE THAT WE NEARLY HAD AN ACCIDENT BEFORE WE COULD GET THE CAR PULLED OVER.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-10-18
- VIN: WVWEE83A3VB
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VARIOUS ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS FAILED WHILE DRIVING--WINDSHIELD WIPERS, LIGHTS, DEFROST MOTOR--ON A VERY DARK, RAINY MORNING, CAUSING A DANGEROUS SITUATION AND A NEAR-ACCIDENT. MANUFACTURER PREVIOUSLY WARNED OF 'IGNITION SWITCH FAILURE', BUT WOULD ONLY REPAIR AFTER FAILURE AND BEFORE 10 YRS OR 100,000 MILES. MY CAR HAS 100,600 MILES. MANUFACTURER REFUSES TO BEAR THE REPAIR COST FOR THIS KNOWN DEFECT THAT COULD HAVE CAUSED A SERIOUS ACCIDENT. *NM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-08-13
- VIN: WVWFE83A9VE
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: IGNITION SWITCH FAILURE WHILE VEHICLE OPERATIONAL. SAME CONDITION WAS COVERED UNDER RECALL ON 1996 VW PASSAT MODELS, MANUFACTURER IS NOT OFFERING COVERAGE ON SAME BODY STYLE UNDER 1997 AND 1995 DESIGNATION. IMPACTED VEHICLE IS A 1997 VW PASSAT WAGON. *JB
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-05-10
- VIN: WVWEE83A7VB
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: HOT COOLANT SUDDENLY STARTED COMING OUT OF THE VENTS AND CAUSED ALL THE WINDOWS TO FOG OVER. HAD TO PULL OF FREEWAY AND GET A TOW. NO INDICATION OF A PROBLEM PRIOR TO THE FAILURE. PROBLEM TURNS OUT TO BE A BAD HEATER CORE. HAD HEATER CORE BYPASSED BECAUSE OF THE COST OF THE REPAIR. *NM
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-12-27
- VIN: WVWFE83A3VE
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: DT: THE CONTACT STATED THE HEATER CORE WAS LEAKING COOLANT ONTO THE FLOOR, NOT ALLOWING THE WINDSHIELD TO COMPLETELY DEFROST. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN SEEN BY A DEALER AND NO REPAIRS HAVE BEEN MADE. *AK UPDATED 01/19/06. *JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-12-24
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WVWGG83A8VB
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE EN-ROUTE BETWEEN DEXTER, MICHIGAN AND GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN, CABIN BEGAN TO SMELL OF SMOKE. SHORTLY THEREAFTER, THE CIGARETTE LIGHTER CAUGHT FIRE. FIRE WAS EXTINGUISHED WITH A HALON EXTINGUISHER PROMPTLY. EXAMINATION OF THE COMPONENTS POST-FIRE REVEALED A DEFECTIVE CENTER CONDUCTOR. CIRCUIT WAS FUSED AT 10 AMPS WHICH WAS FOUND TO BE BLOWN, POST FIRE. NO INJURIES, NO DAMAGE TO PERSONAL GOODS, DAMAGE WAS CONFINED TO CIGARETTE LIGHTER ASSEMBLY, WHICH IS POORLY DESIGNED. *NM
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-12-14
- VIN: WVWEE83A5VB
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: HEATER CORE FAILURE. INITIALLY I ONLY SMELL THE RADIATOR FLUID. THEN IT QUICKLY CHANGES OVER TO STEAM ACTUALLY COMING OUT OF YOUR VENTS. THIS CAUSES YOUR WINDOWS TO FOG UP. RADIATOR FLUID CAME SHOOTING OUT OF THE DASH BUT ON THE PASSENGER SIDE. THIS PROBABLY WOULD HAVE SCALDED SOMEONE IF THEY WERE SITTING THERE. *JB
STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1901-01-01
- Components: STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: 1997 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT DEVELOPED PROBLEMS WITH THE DOOR LOCKS, AND SIDE DOOR HANDLE.*MR *NM
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-08-31
- VIN: WVWGG83A0VB
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: DT: GOODYEAR TIRES EAGLE GPS , SIZE 195/60/R14 EXPERIENCED A LARGE CRACK IN THE SIDEWALL COMPLETELY AROUND LEFT FRONT TIRE RIM. THE CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A GOODYEAR DEALER, AND THEY URGED THE CONSUMER TO TAKE TIRE TO SEARS BECAUSE THESE TIRES CAME ON A USED VEHICLE, THESE WERE NOT PART OF THE ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT. THE CONSUMER WENT TO SEARS, WHO REPLACED THE LEFT FRONT TIRE FREE OF CHARGE BECAUSE THERE WERE ONLY 1,000 MILES AND HARDLY ANY WEAR ON THEM. THE OTHER TIRES WERE ALSO CRACKED. THE SERVICE MAN AT SEARS ASKED THE CONSUMER TO RETURN THE NEXT DAY AND HE WOULD REPLACE THE OTHER TIRES. BUT WHEN CONSUMER RETURNED THE NEXT DAY A DIFFERENT PERSON WAS WORKING AND SAID THESE WERE NOT SEAR'S TIRES BUT SAMATAEA'S CLUB TIRES. THE CONSUMER WAS REFERRED TO SAMATAEA'S CLUB TO REPLACE ALL TIRES AND RETURN THE PREVIOUSLY REPLACED TIRE TO SEARS. SAMATAEA'S CLUB WOULD NOT HONOR THE TIRE WARRANTY BECAUSE THE CONSUMER WAS NOT A MEMBER, AND THAT WAS PART OF THEIR POLICY. THE CONSUMER CONTACTED GOODYEAR, AND THEY SAID IT WAS UP TO SAMATAEA'S CLUB AS TO HOW THOSE TIRES SHOULD BE REPLACED. THE TIRES HAVE HARDLY ANY WEAR BUT CONTINUE TO CRACK. CURRENTLY ON THE SIDEWALL THE STEEL AND TREAD IS SHOWS THROUGH . NO ONE WILL REPLACE THESE TIRES AT THIS TIME. THE CONSUMER DOES PLAN TO REPLACE THESE TIRES, BUT FEELS HE SHOULD NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE REPAIR COST. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-06-01
- VIN: WVWGG83A7VB
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 1997 VW PASSAT TDI. THE CAR HAD A "TV-12" RECALL, IN WHICH THE ECM AND INTAKE MANIFOLD WAS REPLACED. WITHIN SIX (6) MONTHS, THE ECM WENT OUT AGAIN, AND VW "REFUSES" TO LIVE UP TO THE WARRANTY. 2) FAILURE OF THIS, DOES NOT DIMINISH IT'S "CRUSING" CAPACITY DOWN THE HIGHWAY. HOWEVER, THERE WILL BE NO POWER TO PASS SAFELY, AND MUCH LOSS OF POWER, WHEN ENTERING THE 'EXITS'. CONSEQUENTLY, A VERY POSSIBLE SITUATION RESULTS TO HAVE A TERRIBLE CRASH. VW KNOWS ABOUT THIS, AND ONLY FIXES IT WHEN "THE CUSTOMER COMPLAINS". 3) THE ORIGINAL INTAKE WAS REPLACED, AND ECM. HOWEVER, VW WILL NOT PUT A 'NEW' ECM IN, RATHER, THEY PUT IN A "REBUILT" ONE. THIS IS PRONE TO HUMAN ERROR, AND THAT'S WHY MINE FAILED WITHIN FIVE (5) TO SIX (6) MONTHS. IT 'GOES OUT' CONSTANTLY. *JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-05-02
- VIN: WVWHG83A2VE
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 1. IGNITION SWITCH FAILED. 2. CAUSED LOSS OF ELECTRICAL POWER AND TEMPORARY ENGINE FAILURE. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM DAMAGE. 3. REPLACED ELECTRICAL PORTION OF IGNITION SWITCH, HEADLIGHT RELAY.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-21
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: I HAVEN'T EXPERIENCE A FAILURE YET, BUT I HAVE A 1997 PASSAT VR6 AND IT SEEMS THAT MANY PEOPLE WITH MY MODEL HAVE EXPERIENCED HEATER CORE FAILURES, ESPECIALLY WHILE DRIVING. I'M FILING THIS REPORT AS A PREEMPTIVE MECHANISM.*AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-27
- VIN: WVWEE83A3VB
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: HEATER CORE FAILURE - HEATER CORE FAILED CATASTROPHICALLY, DUMPING HOT COOLANT IN THE DRIVERS SIDE FOOT WELL, AND OBSCURING VISIBILITY BY RAPIDLY STEAMING UP ALL WINDOWS.*AK UPON REQUEST, VWOA REPLACED THE HEATER CORE AND COVERED PARTS/LABOR 100% AS A GOOD WILL GESTURE. THIS SHOULD BE A FORMAL RECALL AS THE HEATER CORE IN THIS VEHICLE IS THE SAME PART (SAME PART NUMBER, MANUFACTURER, ETC...) THAT WAS THE SUBJECT OF FORMAL RECALLS IN THE LATE 1980'S AND EARLY 1990'S GOLF/JETTA/CORRADO/PASSAT CHASSIS.
VISIBILITY,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-06-01
- VIN: WVWGG83A8VB
- Components: VISIBILITY,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: DRIVER'S POWER WINDOW REGULATOR MECHANISM HAS REPEATED FAILURES DESPITE REPLACEMENT/REPAIR ON SIX OCCASIONS. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY HAZARD, SINCE THE WINDOW MUST BE CLOSED BY GRASPING THE GLASS AND MANIPULATING IT WHICH CAN RESULT IN FINGERS BEING TRAPPED AND BROKEN. ALSO, ONCE THIS FAILURE HAS HAPPENED, THE WINDOW MAY DROP DOWN INTO THE DOOR UNEXPECTEDLY AT HIGH SPEED CAUSING DRIVER DISTRACTION, OR FAIL TO OPEN IN AN EMERGENCY PRECLUDING AN ESCAPE PATH. THIS IS COMPOUNDED BY FAULTY DOOR LATCH MECHANISM ACTUATORS WHICH PRECLUDE DOOR OPENING FROM OUTSIDE BY RESCUE PERSONNEL. THE FAILURE IS CAUSED BY A FAULTY ROLL PIN SLIPPING OUT OF THE DOOR LATCH TRIGGER MECHANISM CAUSING FAILURE OF AND BINDING OF THE LINKAGE WHICH CAUSES THE DOOR LOCK ACTUATING MECHANISM TO FAIL, TRAPPING PASSENGERS INSIDE THE VEHICLE. PLEASE NOTE THAT PER THE GE INFORMATION SERVICES, JAPAN ISSUED A RECALL FOR THIS PROBLEM.*AK
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-13
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: CONSUMER COMPLAINED ABOUT DOOR LOCKS AND LATCHES. THE DOOR LOCKS AND LATCHES FROZE IN COLD WEATHER. CONSUMER HAD TO TIE A BELT FROM THE DOOR TO DRIVER'S LEG TO KEEP THE DOOR FROM OPENING WHEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE. CONSUMER CONTACTED THE DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER. THE DEALER LUBRICATED THE LOCKS, AND IT HELPED FOR ONLY TWO WEEKS AND THE PROBLEM RECURRED. MANUFACTURER WAS NO HELP. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-13
- VIN: WVWGG83A2VB
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CONSUMER COMPLAINED ABOUT IGNITION SWITCH AND HEADLIGHTS PROBLEMS. WHILE DRIVING ON A WINDING ROAD THE HEADLIGHTS JUST TURNED OFF, AND CONSUMER WOULD HAVE TO WIGGLE THE IGNITION TO GET THE LIGHTS TO TURN BACK ON. CURRENTLY, MANUFACTURER WAS RECALLING VEHICLES WITH THIS DEFECT. HOWEVER, BECAUSE THIS VEHICLE HAD AN EXCESS OF 125,000 MILES IT WAS 25,000 MILES PAST THE CUT OFF POINT. *AK ALSO, HEADLIGHTS WILL SOMETIMES GO OUT WHILE DRIVING. DEALER REPLACED IGNITION SWITCH. CONSUMER FELT THAT THIS PROBLEM SHOULD BE A DEFINITIVE RECALL WITHOUT MILEAGE LIMITATIONS. *AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-03
- VIN: WVWEE83A0VB
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED AT NIGHT IN INCLEMENT CONDITIONS HEADLIGHTS AND WINDSHIELD WIPERS WORKED INTERMITTENTLY. CONSUMER STATED, IF HE MOVED THE KEY BACK AND FORTH IN THE IGNITION SWITCH THE HEADLIGHTS WOULD COME BACK ON. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-07-15
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: I PURCHASED A 1997 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT VR6 AT CHECKERED FLAG BMW IN JUNE 2004, AND SINCE HAVE DISCOVERED THAT THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM IS HORRIBLE. FIRST, THE AIR CONDITIONER( A/C) QUIT WORKING, THEN THE AIRBAG LIGHT CAME ON, AND THE AC STARTED WORKING FOR A DAY, THEN BLEW A CHEMICAL CLOUD INTO THE VEHICLE, WHILE I WAS ON THE HIGHWAY. MY EYES WERE BURNING (AS WELL AS MY FACE) FOR THE REST OF THE DAY. FINALLY, I HAVE ALREADY HAD TO REPLACE THE BATTERY, AND THERE'S A SLOW COOLANT LEAK. MAY I SUGGEST THAT WE REMOVE ALL VW'S FROM AMERICA'S STREETS? THEY ARE A TOTAL MENACE TO ANYONE WHO OWNS THEM! I WENT TO CHECKERED FLAG VW, TO HAVE IT SERVICED, AND THEY WANTED TO CHARGE 89 DOLLARS A PROBLEM, JUST TO LOOK, THEN THEY SAID I COULD TRADE IT FOR A NEW ONE. WHY WOULD I WANT A NEW ONE? I DON'T NEED TO TRADE AN OLD PROBLEM FOR A NEW, MORE EXPENSIVE ONE, I JUST WANT A RELIABLE WORK VEHICLE, AND I WISH I HAD STUCK TO MY GUNS AND BOUGHT ANOTHER PRELUDE. THIS THING WILL SEE THE CRUSHER WHEN I'M DONE PAYING IT OFF! FOUR PROBLEMS IN NOT SO MANY MONTHS. ONLY ANOTHER VW OWNER WOULD KNOW THAT KIND OF FRUSTRATION!*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-08-09
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: WVWEE83AXVB
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING MY 1997 PASSAT WHEN IT STARTED TO OVER HEAT. THE TEMPERATURE GAGE ROSE VERY QUICKLY AND I IMMEDIATELY TOOK THE NEXT EXIT OFF OF THE FREEWAY ( 1/8 OF A MILE IN DISTANCE). WHEN THE TEMPERATURE GAGE REACHED 240 DEGREES MY RED DASHBOARD LIGHT STARTED TO FLASH. I DECIDED THAT I NEEDED TO PULL OVER IMMEDIATELY. WITHIN SECONDS, NOT MINUTES, I HEARD A LOUD POP SOUND, LIKE AN EXPLOSION. STEAM SHOT OUT AT MYSELF AND MY DAUGHTER INSIDE THE CAR AND WE WERE SPRAYED WITH BOILING LIQUID ON OUR FEET AND LOWER LEGS. VISABLILITY WAS ALMOST ZERO FROM THE SPRAYING STEAM AS I SWERVED INTO THE NEAREST PARKING LOT. I TRIED TO COME TO A STOP IN THE NEAREST PARKING SPACE BUT I COULD NO LONGER KEEP MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE PEDAL BECAUSE MY FOOT WAS BEING SPRAYED WITH BOILING WATER. I THREW THE CAR INTO PARK AND TRIED TO GRAB THE EMERGENCY BRAKE, BUT WE HAD ALREADY JUMPED THE PARKING SPACE CURB AND HIT A LARGE BUSH. THE ENTIRE FRONT INSIDE OF MY CAR IS DAMAGED FROM WATER AND COOLANT, AND THE FRONT OF MY CAR ON THE OUTSIDE HAS A DENT AND PUNCTURE IN THE BUMPER. THE MECHANIC THAT CAME TO MY AID TOLD ME THAT THE HEATER CORE HAD EXPLODED. I DON'T KNOW WHAT WOULD HAVE HAPPENED IF I HAD NOT NOTICED MY CAR OVER HEATING, AND I HAD STILL BEEN ON THE BUSY FREEWAY DRIVING 55 MPH WHEN THIS EXPLOSION OCCURED! REPAIRS HAVE NOT BEEN MADE. THE CAR IS AT A REPAIR SHOP. I'M NOT SURE WHAT TO DO NEXT.
1997 Volkswagen Passat recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1997 Volkswagen Passat.
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
Negative 1997 Volkswagen Passat car reviews
Positive 1997 Volkswagen Passat car reviews
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I bought this car about a year ago and have really enjoyed driving it. Although the auto transmission can shift hard occasionally, and I've had some problems with the ABS and Check Engine lights coming on, I never found any performance problems when these lights were on. Overall, it's a great car that's very comfortable and has plenty of power. My only complaint is the lousy gas mileage - I have never gotten the claimed MPG.
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This car has a good amount of power. The interior space is actually much more than you might expect.
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The car is excellent, however, it has been experiencing a recent stalling problem. Despite visiting the dealer several times, they have been unable to identify the issue. I am confident that with further investigation, the root cause of the problem can be identified and resolved.
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I bought my 97 GLX Passat (manual trans.) new and have taken great care of it. I absolutely LOVE this car! I've had a few minor issues, but they were quickly resolved with infrequent service. I call it my Poor Man's BMW, as I liked it MUCH better than the used BMWs I test drove at the time. It's spacious, fun to drive, reliable, and has held up incredibly well. Although the cup holder is consistently poorly built, I went through three before I gave up. The mileage could be better, and it is fairly noisy on the highway. However, it has very spacious interior, huge trunk space w/ folding rear seats, and the leather has held up quite well. I highly recommend this car, especially if it's been taken care of properly. I'm at 120,000 miles and still going strong!
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Amazing handling! I love this car.
Other years of Volkswagen Passat
Are you having problems with your 1997 Volkswagen Passat?
Markus Batz 2025-01-05
The 1997 Passat wagon has had multiple issues, including failures in the electrical system, sunroof track, and AC and vent system. Fortunately, I had the foresight to purchase a used car warranty, which has proven to be a wise investment. It is unfortunate that some other owners have also had negative experiences, but I remain confident in my decision to purchase this vehicle.
Carmel Schroeder 2024-11-18
This car requires frequent repairs, with power windows, suspension, bearings, and wheel hub being known defects. Despite its attractive appearance, it is an expensive vehicle to maintain.
Nelson Marquardt 2024-09-25
My 1997 Volkswagen Passat has been a disappointment in terms of quality, with issues ranging from faulty door handles and power windows to problems with the front end such as tie rods and bearings. Despite these setbacks, I have found the car to be a great handling vehicle with a roomy interior and a powerful VR6 engine paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. While I have reached 135,000 miles, I am confident that with proper maintenance, I can continue to enjoy this car for many more miles to come.
Ike Breitenberg 2024-09-16
I confidently traded in this car today after owning it for less than a year. Despite purchasing it used with 55,000 miles, numerous issues arose immediately. Although the dealer made several repairs at no cost, I never fully trusted the car and always felt unsafe. Each time a repair was necessary, I anxiously awaited the outcome. However, I am now thrilled to have moved on from this car.
Leonard Jast 2024-08-15
I am sorry to hear about your experience with your 1997 Volkswagen Passat. It seems like you have had a lot of issues with it, which can be frustrating. It is important to note that every car has its own unique set of issues, and it sounds like this one may have had more than its fair share. Thank you for sharing your experience with us, and we hope that your next car will be a better fit for you!