JimJNoel

All,

We have a 2000 VW Passat. It was great for 60000 miles. Now it is a piece of junk! The heater core went at 60000. They did not put it back together very good. Had to take it in twice for additional fixes. Then at 62000 the cars left rear rotor melted down on I-20. First repair was $1000 for the heater core and VW picked up $500. Second repair was $800. A day later, the AC went out. They filled it with freon and said it was fixed. That last for a day. Now it is out again. I told them to fix it right at the dealer. They say they think it is a clutch for the compressor but not sure and it could bethe compressor. They want $700 for the clutch and if that does not work, they want $800 more. Does that sound right? Could it be something else? Shouldn't a dealer just replace the compressor to be safe. If they did the compressor it would not be as much as both? This sounds a bit flaky? Is this dealer in Lithia Springs GA on the up and up? I wonder if we are being taken? Either we are being nickled and dimed by them, they can't fix a car right, or VW makes junk!Which is it? I am ready to go Honda or Toyota and be done with it!

Symptoms...A/C will work at low speads but cuts out above 40 mph and blows outside air. A/C will start working again when car is turned off for a while! Also, some of the electronics don't work again. These failed after they put the car back together after the heater core andnow failed again. It is where the trip meter is and mileage reader. They are locked up and read weird numbers. i am worried the A/C problems are related as they seem to have screwed up the electrical system. What a sad VW mess.

-Jim

janep

After 2 long years with nothing but problems with my 2002 Passat W8, I too felt VW as nickle and dime-ing me on things that should have been covered under warranty, etc. The last straw- my engine needed to be replaced (and no w8 expert onsite at my local VW garage, so I had to have it towed to Indianapolis for repairs). I am now the proud owner of a 2004 Toyota Highlander Limited. In just the brief time I have had the car (2 months) the difference between night and day with Toyota and VW service. Best of luck in figuring out your problem, you may want to contact Volkswagen America HQ, Auburn Hills, MI if you are not getting satisfaction.