1996 Passat TDI stalls at speed

My Passat stalls at least once per trip (usually within the first few miles).

It just shuts off and cannot be started for about 10 seconds, then its ok and does not stall for the rest of the trip. The speedo shuts down when this happens then it resumes when its ok to start car again.
(in other words the speedo drops to 0 for a few seconds then returns to speed when the problem clears itself - I then let out the clutch and resume as if nothing happenned)

Previous owner told me he thinks its related to the fuel pump relay(s)

I changed the fuel filter since I don't know its history (140k miles)

I am experiencing the same event. I can expect the car to shutdown in the fifth ir sixth minute of the trip. The oil temp is usually between 158-162 degrees F. I usually am able to coast it out in neutral. I have noticed that a relay or something has what appears to be an audible resetting sound coming from the dash to the left of the steering wheel below the instrument cluster. When that clicks I can turn the key/ignition and we're good to go. The dealer couldn't recreate the event. He checked vacuum hoses and fuel pressure and found no issues. I tend to believe it is more electrical than fuel. Anybody got a clue? I sure need one.

I did it...I did it....

Replace relay # 109 and your problem should go away....mine did!

#109 is located to the left of the steering column and you can change it in seconds....cost is about $20.

Exactly, relay 109, it's a know issue with older TDI's.

The ignition switch too, so be careful.

TDIclub.com is there for you diesel freaks! :evillol: