I bought a 2003 Passat GLS this past August. I live in NY and the cold winter months have come. On colder days (35 and below), the car almost feels brittle and makes lots of creaking noises when i go over bumps, dips, etc. These noises are very noticable on the right side. My friend told me he had a similar problem with his truck (gas shocks or something). Could it be that? or perhaps a problem with my shocks. Maybe i'm crazy, but i don't think a new car should be making noises like these (even if it is the winter).

I thank anyone who takes the time to respond.

KJ

I also hae a New 2003 Passat I bought in August and I noticed it does the same thing-I don't know any details though, but maybe since both of them do the same thing-it's normal?

I almost wish it isn't normal - just because it is so annoying. Also, since it only happens on my right side - i definitely think there is something wrong. I read on some audi forum - the same problem was solved by replacing the bushing arm (whatever that is). Also, I don't think it is normal because it happens on every little thing. If i drive over the smallest manhole cover - i hear this creaking / crunching. When i get my 5000 mile service - i'm gonna ask them to check my shocks and suspension. Let me know if you end up resolving this, and how you did it.