2003 Volkswagen Passat Engine cooling Problems

“The check engine light on my vw Passat 2003 with only 60 k miles came on while I was driving and as a result of that the thermostat and the oxygen sensor had to be replaced. The car mechanic was is an independent vw mechanic and he was of the opinion that at such mileage such malfunctions should not occur in this car.”

“My oil pressure light came on. I was driving on a mountain, and there was no where to pull over, so I had to keep driving. The engine locked up and the car lost power. I was able to steer it off onto a shoulder. I have also been burned my the heated seat when the wiring overheats, and it has both shocked and burned my skin.”

“The vw 1.8t engine has know sludge issues that lead to engine failure. When the engine fails the driver looses all power functions associated with the vehicle. This includes steering and brakes. This is exactly what happened to me and I was lucky enough to be in the left hand lane and was able to pull over and park. Had this happened when I was on an interstate it could have been a completely different outcome.”

“I was driving my Passat with 1.8 t engine and the engine failed. Volkswagen advocates were completely unhelpful this occurred in summer of 2005. Volkswagen aware of problem and left consumer to pay for 9000 dollar repair. In the last year my car has been in at least eight times for check engine light. Company aware of problem and unwilling to help.”

“Apparent engine oil sludge problem. The oil light came on with a warning to stop the engine. The car is currently in the shop awaiting evaluation of the extent damage. I purchased the car used and have no record of the previous owners maintenance. I maintain my own vehicle therefore do not have receipts to prove each oil change according to the schedule. Vw recommends changes every 5,000 miles; I changed it every 3,000.”