Two problems related to underhood wiring have been reported for the 1998 Volkswagen Passat. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
While pulling out of a parking lot vehicle shook violently. Also, vehicle lost power. Simultaneously, check engine light illuminated on the dashboard. A mechanic examined the vehicle, and determined that an electrical problem was apparent in the engine compartment.
While driving saw smoke coming out from under the hood. Pulled over, opened hood and saw vehicle was on fire. Vehicle suffered extensive damage. Also, throttle body and cv joints needed to be replaced. Vehicle stalles, misfired, and idle fluctuated from low to high.