98 Passat

[David]

1988 was the first year of the B5 Passat in the USA. I had a 1998 GLS 1.8T. There are a few "issues" with the early B5s, but I've never heard of window regulators failing. Could you be thinking of the MkIV Jettas? They are known for failing window regulators. For the Passat V6, look for leaking valve cover gaskets, dead control arms (major problems there) and any CELs. If you know anybody with a VAG-COM, have them check for codes. Your BEST resource for Passat info is going to be http://www.clubb5.com


>
> From: Joshua Van Tol <josh at spiny.com>
> Date: 2003/07/24 Thu PM 10:31:02 EDT
> To: quattro quattro list <quattro at audifans.com>
> Subject: 98 Passat
>
> We are looking at purchasing a '98 Passat 5-speed with the 30 valve V6
> engine.  I've been doing some research online and there seems to be
> very mixed opinions with this car- love or hate and not much in
> between.  There seem to be a lot of stories about broken window
> winders, broken sunroofs, worn out suspension parts, etc, and all at
> relatively low milages
>
> The timing belt (at 88k) most likely has not been serviced, and it
> looks like about $300 in parts to do that. Any other big gotchas to
> look out for? Are the cars really as bad as some of the online reviews
> make them out to be, or are those just former camry owners whining
> about slightly higher repair costs?
>
> So, any direct experience out there? Is the '98 Passat a total lemon or
> are they okay cars?
>
> Thanks,
>
>

Dave
2002 Jetta 1.8T (hers)
1993 RX-7 R1 (weekend play toy, soon to be for sale)
1987 CGT Special Build 2.3
in SE Virginia