Two problems related to trunk wiring have been reported for the 1996 Volkswagen Passat. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Trunk locking mechanism and electrical component failure. Results in dangerous situations when the trunk will open while driving and not close and lock. May cause a highway accident when the trunk pops up, completely blocking driver rear view causing an accident. Dt.
On Tuesday, owner noticed that the drl were not working as well as the interior a/c fan. Driver had been instructed by dealer to 'jiggle' switch in order to get both working. Instructions did not make either to work. Driver switched off engine while moving, trying to get either to work. After trying this several times with no luck, one incident caused the cruise control to 'set'. Driver was unable to turn off the cruise control either by switch, brake pedal or clutch pedal. Driver ended up turning off car in order to cancel the cruise control. After letting car sit for about 10 minutes, both items worked again, but after the car sat overnight, both items did not work again.