Table 1 shows nine common service brakes related problems of the 1996 Volkswagen Passat. The number one most common problem is related to the abs brake fail (two problems). The second most common problem is related to the brake abs warning light (two problems).
When car is driven at highway speeds for about 1 hour, the abs light comes on. Mechanic at Volkswagen says that the abs pumps need to be replaced at a cost of $1700. Since this problem is intermitten, I decided not to spend the money for repair since I can still brake though without abs. Read details...
The daytime and normal headlights don't work when engine is started. This problem is intermittent. Sometimes I would shut off the engine and restart it and the lights come back on. Another time, I just turned off the engine and let the car sit in my garage for a few days. Read details...
Lost power assist and had to use hand brake to stop. Vacuum line was replaced and failed again at 79363 miles. Read details...