Table 1 shows nine common electrical system related problems of the 1997 Volkswagen Passat. The number one most common problem is related to the ignition switch (nine problems). The second most common problem is related to the dash wiring (two problems).
Various electronic components failed while driving--windshield wipers, lights, defrost motor--on a very dark, rainy morning, causing a dangerous situation and a near-accident. Manufacturer previously warned of 'ignition switch failure', but would only repair after failure and before 10 yrs or Read details...
While en-route between dexter, michigan and grand rapids, michigan, cabin began to smell of smoke. Shortly thereafter, the cigarette lighter caught fire. Fire was extinguished with a halon extinguisher promptly. Examination of the components post-fire revealed a defective center conductor. Read details...
Started with airbag light turning on. A week or so later the parking brake and abs lights turned on but only for the first few miles of driving. While these were on, the ac fan, wipers, and headlights do not operate. These lights now stay on most of the time. Read details...