2003 Volkswagen Passat engine problems

Filed Dec 21, 2023 · Engine · 72,000 miles · RI

The contact owns a 2003 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, coolant leaked onto the front passenger’s side floorboard. The contact stated that the coolant leak was underneath the glove compartment area. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, and the contact was advised to have the vehicle taken to the Volkswagen dealer. The contact visited the dealer and discussed the reoccurring failure and was informed that the heater coil was designed incorrectly, and the failure was due to the design of the heater coil. The contact was informed that the heater coil needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 72,000.

Filed Sep 20, 2021 · Engine · 150,000 miles · CO · fire

The contact owns a 2003 Volkswagen Passat. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 mph the vehicle's speed suddenly begin to reduce and smoke was present coming from the engine compartment. After stopping and exiting the vehicle became engulfed in flames. The fire department was called to the scene and extinguished the flames and the vehicle was towed away. During the incident, the vehicle was destroyed. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the incident but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 150,000.

Filed May 13, 2021 · Electrical, Engine · 180,000 miles · CA

I purchased a used 2003 vw passat from a private dealer drove the car five months and the timing belt came off while I was driving. I almost got into an accident but avoided it. This particular vehicle and ones like it was recalled in 3/7/2014 for engine and engine cooling engine problems that causes the timing belt to come off while driving. Recall: 14e007000 because of the timing belt failure. I contacted a vw dealership and they said the recall didn't apply to my car. I find that insulting consider ing what I just experienced.

Filed Aug 31, 2020 · Engine · 180,000 miles · TX

Tl* the contact owns a 2003 volkswagen passat. The contact stated while the vehicle was at a stand still, the vehicle failed to start. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the timing chain actuator/solenoid needed to be replaced. The contact stated a local dealer was contacted about open recalls and stated that there was no recall on vehicle. The vehicle had not been repaired as of yet. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000.

Filed Feb 4, 2019 · Engine, Fuel system · 78,000 miles · GA

Tl* the contact owns a 2003 volkswagen passat. The contact stated that the vehicle would not hold fuel and the tank had to constantly be refilled. Also, the check engine warning indicator illuminated. The vehicle was taken to ellis motorcars inc (2235 e south blvd, montgomery, al 36116, (334) 280-1021) where it was diagnosed that the coolant system and the timing chain needed to be repaired. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and did not assist. The failure mileage was 78,000.

Filed Jun 7, 2018 · Engine · 124,675 miles · LA

Tl* the contact owns a 2003 volkswagen passat. While pulling out of the driveway, the contact stated that coolant was leaking from the vehicle. The low coolant warning indicator illuminated and an abnormal beeping sound was heard while driving various speeds. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and it was diagnosed that the coolant leak was due to an engine failure that was not repairable. The dealer was not contacted for diagnostic testing or repairs. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 124,675. The VIN was not available.

Filed Jun 13, 2017 · Engine · 203,000 miles · WY

Ignition coils keep failing. Just replaced in february again in may and will have to again here any day.

Filed Nov 18, 2015 · Electrical, Engine · 130,000 miles · MD

Tl* the contact owns a 2003 volkswagen passat. The contact stated that the vehicle stalled without warning while driving at various speeds. The failure was experienced numerous times. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who performed diagnostic testing. The engine oxygen sensor, coil spring, sparks plugs, and wires were replaced; however, the failure was not corrected. The contact stated that the tail lights also failed. The tail lights were not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failures. The failure mileage was 130,000.

Filed Nov 4, 2015 · Engine · 93,000 miles · VA

Driving, less than 45. Intermittent stop engine low oil pressure light. No other indications. Oil level is at specifications. Suspect long known problem of sludge in the oil pickup tube.. Vehicle has not been repaired

Filed Sep 28, 2015 · Engine · 120,000 miles · CA

My floorboards are soaked with coolant had noticed I had leak but had no idea that it was leaking into inside cabinet, heater core went out and every time I added fluid it would be gone wasnt sure where itwas going I could smell antifreeze smell for sometime but thought if it were overheating dash would give some warning!..again now that I know it was unhealthy to be breathing the toxic smell.my daughter still putting up with smell hard to get rid of it even after shampooing {sorry after shopvac sucked atleast 2gallons of coolant from my floor boards...this really makes me angry that I didnt know I was forced to breath in these toxic fumes for several months and continues,