1991 Volkswagen Passat GL 2.0 from North America
Summary:
Overall it has been a pretty good car - getting tired now
Faults:
Was trouble free for first two years, then I brought it to Canada.
Had a problem. The car would start and run fine for a couple of kms, then stumble around at 4-500 rpm or rev to full throttle. Took the dealer several trips to fix, never did find out what they did.
Have gone through several mufflers.
Replaced heater control box twice - overheated. VW claimed they never had any problems with them, dealer told me otherwise.
Replaced alternator twice.
Several brake jobs - normal wear and tear, although parking brake cables have seized.
Door switches for interior lights all have broken.
Heater core blew - VW did a recall for every other model but the Passat (same part number of heater core).
Computer constantly resets - but I'll live with that.
Heated seats don't heat anymore.
Replaced motor mounts twice.
Rear drivers side window regulator replaced twice.
Has overheating issues especially with A/C on in stop and go traffic.
Just replaced both front axles.
Replaced oil and water temp and oil pressure sensors.
And have a nagging power drain on battery that I haven't been able to trace.
Door locks will freeze in cold humid weather.
General Comments:
I still have original clutch, engine leaks a little, but burns very little oil.
Ride is still solid, only very minor rust - was easily touched up and still gets me to work every day.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 6th July, 2009
22nd Jul 2009, 14:31
Buy a speed boat and a cheap reliable car, instead. You'll thank my advice. If you feel like spending thousands of dollars on repairs for everything on the car, then buy a used one. Realize though, that most vehicles only last so long, and the Passat will be reliable for you a long time if you buy it "brand new".