Looking at buying a used Volkswagen Passat? This German sedan boasts D-segment comfort and refinement at bargain prices…
THE D-segment is a slow-selling sector of our market and has been largely usurped by soft-roader SUVs in terms of popularity. Conversely, this results in relative bargains for those wanting classy comfort at rather affordable second-hand prices.
This particular Passat has clean and tasteful lines coupled with better-than-expected interior and luggage space. More spacious, for example, than the Audi A4, the boot size is a massive 432 dm3 and utility space is 1 160 dm3. The powertrain line-up consisted of a 1,8-litre turbopetrol with 110 kW/210 N.m, a 2,3 V5 boasting 125 kW/220 N.m (it joined the range later in the cycle) and a 2,8 V6 with 142 kW/280 N.m. Launched a few years after the initial introduction was a 1,9 TDI with 96 kW/310 N.m. The 1,8T and 1,9 TDI could be bought with five- and six-speed manual gearboxes respectively, while the rest had a five-speed Tiptronic auto-matic transmission. The range was replaced with the sixth-generation model in 2005.
ENGINES
There have been turbocharger failures on diesels, with a couple of cars on their third turbos. Intercooler pipes can come adrift or split, dropping the boost pressure and power. There were also reports of coil failures on petrol models, while mass-airflow sensors also give trouble. Look out for increased fuel consumption as a warning.
TRANSMISSION AND STEERING
Dual-mass flywheel (and clutch) failures on diesels between 80 000 and 150 000 km can necessitate replacement. One wheel-bearing failure at 80 000 km was mentioned, as well as isolated cases of steering-fluid leaks.
SUSPENSION, STEERING AND BRAKES
A broken coil spring, master-cylinder failure and front suspension wear at 120 000 km were noted. Look for uneven front tyre wear as an indication. A handbrake cable on one vehicle snapped.
INTERIOR AND BODYWORK
Watch out for water ingress via the under-bonnet air intakes. If this area is clogged, water can pool and cause damage to electrical equipment, the alarm system and the brake-servo unit.
ELECTRICAL
Most problems involved sensor problems, warning lights and central-locking control units. In one case, replacement of the ABS wiring loom solved a brake problem.
GENERAL
Many owners were impressed with the quality of the interior appointments, but were disappointed with the mechanical and electrical issues. VW dealers also came in for much criticism. Perhaps servicing the Passat yourself is the solution? We’d also avoid vehicles that lack extensive service histories.
Also look at:
Honda Accord, Volvo S60, Hyundai Sonata, Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, BMW 3 Series
