Two problems related to check engine light on have been reported for the 1998 Volkswagen Passat. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
While cruising at highway speed in my 1998 Volkswagen Passat, 3 events occurred simultaneously: a 'pop' sound from the engine area, copious white smoke (not steam) from under the hood, and the engine check light activation. Immediately pulled over, and white smoke increased substantially from (closed) hood, followed within 5 minutes by open flames from the passenger front wheel well. Fire crews were on scene within 10 minutes, but the entire vehicle was engulfed and a total loss.
I have this problem of the check engine light going on/off for 3 months, & I took the car to the dealer, he is always giving a temporary fix, after 2 or 3 days the problem again pops up. I reported this to the manufacturer too. One more thing I want to mention here, once I met with an accident in which both the front air bags deployed. But the car has been fixed well. More over I am going out of warrenty next month, I don't know what to do if this problem comes up after that. Please help me in this regard.