Four problems related to gasoline engine have been reported for the 1998 Volkswagen Passat. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
When the engine dust cover loosens at high speed it's like an explosion occurs. This has happened after oil changes at 3 different vw service centers in houston. I advised gerd klauss, pres. Vw on 11-27-00. His associate joe bertrand called to suggest I ask a vw service manager what would resolve the problem - it's their design that's faulty and dangerous.
Sudden loss of engine power/electrical systems while vehicle is moving. Loss of vehicle control with no engine systems and no power steering assist. Saftey concern from rear end accidents from other vehicles and no avoidance control. Also, regular loss of power steering fluid requires constant monitoring.
My car has a factory defect of coolant mixing with the engine oil and is in the dealer for its second attempt to repair the problem. The factory field representative did not pin point problem to be the cylinder head but is highly probable and is replacing that component only. My argument is that the car had been running with contaminated oil and premature wear had occurred to the other parts of the engine and turbo charger. I had cleveland tech center analyzed the oil and found abnormal and high traces of metal and gycol, thus, resulting in premature wear on the engine components. I purchased a new car and feel that the replacement of only the cylinder head is inadequate and unfair to a customer. I also feel that this is a safety issue and may seize the engine.
Consumer states engine starts slowing. Oil spots on floor. Oil pan needs to be replaced.