Three problems related to engine cooling system have been reported for the 1996 Volkswagen Passat. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
I was driving on the highway in my 1996 vw Passat at 65 mph and the entire inside of my car was engulfed with water and anti freeze steam and vapor. It was quickly and with out warning impossible to see through the windshield. The probable cause of the problem is a defective heater core. This is a very serious safety issue and could have lead to a major accident resulting in injury or death.
Heater core failed while driving, blowing hot steam out of the vents, dumping hot coolant onto my feet and fogging up the windshield instantly.
Vehicle has been experincing ongoing problem with day ruinning light/ head light, heater / cooling system would intermittently go out or stop operating. Sometimes if key is jiggled it would cause it to come back on or operate again. Aslo, speedometer / odometer fail edto operate. Dealer notified and refused to repair unless cost goes to consumer.