One problem related to front suspension wheel bearing has been reported for the 1999 Volkswagen Passat. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
1) coolant temp. Sensor failed at @47422 miles 2) chaplins checked car because I reported noise in front wheel area. They said both front wheel bearings needed replacing and refused to cover the costs. I took it to an independant vw specialist and was told only the right front wheel bearing was bad. Cost was $466. 79. Vw still refused to assist. 2 independant vw specialists reported vw has a "bad wheel bearing design". 3) replaced original tires with exact brand and style of tire that was originsal to car. Tires felt odd, I had them checked by 2 tire retailers and did own pressure checks twice monthly. After 15,804 miles on tires left rear tread separated from sidewall while driving on freeway at 70mph.