Two problems related to steering column have been reported for the 1998 Volkswagen Passat. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
The consumer's vehicle had smoke coming from the steering column. The smoke had an odor of burning oil and smoke combined. The appearance was white. This started one year ago and went away, and now the problem recurred. Took car to dealer in rapid city sd. They said there was an excess of grease on certain parts under the stering wheel / in the stering wheel. This build up of dust would cause smoke and smell.
Consumer called complaining about having problems with the tire rod ends being defective. Also stated that there is a recall on the vehicle now but the recall did not affect his VIN #. Manufacture was contacted and stated that there was nothing they can do about it. Ts.