Two problems related to steering have been reported for the 2000 Volkswagen Passat. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2000 Volkswagen Passat based on all problems reported for the 2000 Passat.
I have had my 2000 vw Passat since 2006 and have had only regular wear and tear unitl about 3 weeks ago. I was driving on 95 in fort lauderdale, FL moving at about 65-70 mph when the engine shut off, power steering was gone and pushing brakes took all I had to try and safely steer and come to a complete stop crossing over 5 lanes of traffic to the break-down lane. Once I was completely stopped I was able to turn the key to the off position and restart the vehicle. Aside from the engine, steering and brakes all other functions were or at least seemed to still be working (dash lights, radio, windows) the vehicle did this 4 more times while I attempted to drive to the nearest exit and call for assistance. I tested all the fuses and they all were in working order and the next set of symptoms occurred a week later. I was trying to unlock the car with the remote and there was not connection being made between the key and the car, I manually unlocked the doors and put the key in the ignition. The engine didnt start or even attempt to turn over. All dash lights were on as well as the radio, however, I had lost the power windows, locks, trunk, gas lid and all interior light functions. I currently have the vehicle being looked at and hope to give an update when I find out the issue.
The cv boot cover has failed on both cv joints. This allowed grease from the cv joints to sling onto the front brake rotors, causing the brakes to operate with much less stopping power. The cv joints are now damaged and need to be replaced. This repair is not covered under warranty.