Battery problems of the 1999 Volkswagen Passat

Over time leaves collected in the battery compartment of my '99 Volkswagen Passat wagon. This led to rain water leaking into the passenger compartment and corroding the ecu under the driver's seat. The alarm and locks started working on their own, sometimes in the middle of the night, and the vehicle would no longer start. The initial reaction from Volkswagen was to "cheaply fix" and the sell the car as soon as possible because it would have lifelong problems without a "proper fix" which would cost more than the car was worth (~$6-$8k).

Over time leaves collected in the battery compartment of my '99 Volkswagen Passat. This led to rain water leaking into the passenger compartment and corroding the ecu under the driver's seat. The alarm and locks started working on their own and the vehicle would no longer start. The initial reaction from Volkswagen was to "cheaply fix" and the sell the car as soon as possible because it would have lifelong problems without a "proper fix" which would cost more than the car was worth (~$6-$8k).

I own a 1999 vw Passat v6. It currently has approx 67,975 miles. From the first year of purchase to this current date, I've experienced the sunroof opening on it's own during winter months. This sunroof has a manual dial control, and therefore it mystifies me that this can occur. My rate of speed has no impact on the occurance, since I could be merely travelling at 45 50 mph when it happens. I've reported this issue to the dealer,but of course if the problem is not replicated when they test drive the car, it is considered non-existent (in their opinion). I am tired of the multiple premature complaints on this vehicle and at this point, I'm considering another vehicle. This is what my time line looks like: 48,824 miles replaced all upper links replace v belt 49,576 miles replaced water pump and battery 53,629 miles replaced cv boot joints and both front axels 57,512 miles replaced upper links again 61,972 miles, being told that all gasket seals have to be replaced. I'm currently driving with the folling conditions: no heat at my feet if my heat setting is for both body and feet. My key keeps coming apart and getting stuck in the ignition. My sunroof opens on its own when it's cold outside. My left rear passenger door lock wouldn't lock when I lock the car. The trunk light comes on when it feels like. I have to fill up on coolant every 700 miles or so.

Upon replacement of the battery the radio locks down to prevent theft. Lock out reset code fails and stereo can not be reset for use.

While traveling on the highway and without prior warning, acid start leaking from the battery. Dealership is aware of the problem. The invoice stated that the battery was leaking acid down on to the power steering rack causing the boot to split, throwing fluid out of the rack. Also the dip stick plastic was broken.

Vehicle caught on fire while parked in the driveway. The fire department indicated that the fire started on the right side of the engine. The fire may have been caused by the battery. The vehicle was totaled.