Top 5 Failures 1998-2005 Passat B5/B5.5

[@ajc5869]

Got my B5 01 V6 GLX 5speed in high school…sheesh 10 years ago now. 220k on it now, original clutch and honestly very few issues. None that you mentioned other than oil leaks which I took care of early on and haven’t had an issue since, water as well has never been an issue. I owe a lot to the first owner, he really cared for it well and it’s truly never been abused. I’ve leaned over the years how to really get the max out of it without hurting it, lots of fun memories and still making more. Best money I ever spent.

[@mobileradiofitter]

I agree I love my B5.5 wagon. It drives so nice. Changing the entire control arm set and front shocks this weekend. Got a little over fuelling issue too so a good look at this too. All worth it because it's such a great drive. 1.9tdi 2004. Just gone over 200k great video

[@damonp5363]

I have had my 1.8 99 wagon since the day I learned to drive, she's still going strong at 338k and can still get to 120mph no problemo

[@turtlemorrow1267]

Damon P I am so glad to hear that cuz I just bought one today.

[@PizzaMan_rips]

I bought one a couple weeks ago myself. 02 manual with 179xxx on it. obviously its not perfect but I really like it.

[@TruEGTI]

Just picked up an 05 auto last month. First auto I've ever owned an I dig it!

[@johnharmon8698]

What kind of black magic mods did you do to get that performance?

[@coledann8594]

I have 335000 on mine

[@Antto]

My dad bought new a B5 1.9 TDI (euro) and I bought it from him. I totally loved that car. All I remember what parts that car needed was fan clutch, MAF sensor, brake pads and discs, two upper control arms and others were just regular scheduled maintenance like oils and filters. It had 15k kilometer service interval for oil change. That car was late 2000's model and my honest opinion is that car was pretty low maintenance required than compared to my current Audi A6 C6.

[@Rheainstoun]

1.9 TDi is legendary engine. I have the 1999 wagon version with 342 000 km. I bought it last year and it is my first car. I love it, very comfortable, reliable and has some punch with that engine upgrade to some 160 bhp. I can only recommend this car for new drivers that drive often long distances, we are going to Italy this summer for holidays, I know it won't let me down. Great video too!

[@user-ok9xk4bw3j]

No Bullshit Promotions So it didn't let you down,right ?

[@Tonyesz]

I can agree, the 1.9 TDi and 1.9PdTDi are legendary good, the V6 is shit, the 2.0 TDi also not so good

[@pastukas]

1.9 TDi is unkillable. I guess mine has around 500 000 km and still no repair done on the actual engine assembly

[@tore2756]

My 2000 1.9 tdi has 560 000 km on it and it runs fine.

[@FranfutADC]

my first car too, love it :D

[@drennernst7994]

My 2000 1.8 Passat experienced every single issue you covered. Damn.

[@rastolauf5883]

Thank you for being honest about the industry.

[@Janet_Airlines802]

Rasto Lauf to do a thermostat on my b5 wagon the VW dealer would of charged 3-4 hours of labor. Saying a whole bunch of things would have to be removed to do the job including the alternator . I did it myself, I only had to remove one hose and it took me about 45 minutes. Just needed some long extensions. They really get you at the dealerships.

[@janneheikkila3913]

Just got the verdict this morning. My 2004 2.0 Passat wont make it through next inspection. 460'000 kilometres. I've grown in to the seat so bad, that other cars just feel wrong. I'm just not willing to spend 2k€ to fix a 200€ car.

[@taylamorris]

I have a 2000 VW passat. It gives me so many problems, especially electrical, but I love my baby and gold she handles. I've also owned mine longer than any other car. Even when I get a newer car, I still want to keep her to toy around with.

[@TheRoybert]

This is a great post. I've had all these things and fixed much of it myself. 2000 passat V6 30v. Engine mounts and transmission mounts caused transmission bucking on acceleration which got repaired. Clicking left front was the axle and not the tie rod. My newest issue is seemingly a stuck shut thermostat which evidently is only accessible behind the timing belt on the 2.8l. I need a tune up and new spark plugs. Starting is not immediate. 200k plus miles. My mechanic only solves problems. No upselling.

[@joes.7536]

What I've done to my b5 Passat in the first year of ownership. Timing service/water pump Coils Plugs. Copper bkr7e ngk Both CV shafts Upper control arms Outer tires rods Rear calipers/rotors/pads Exhaust downpipe and 3" test pipe Serpentine belt/tensioners New silicone vacuum lines/forge valve Cone filter and custom heat shield Pcv valve 2 window regulators. Boost guage Stage 1.5 Malone software So yeah. Extremely upside down in my investment. No regrets. I learned a lot and have a reliable fun manual transmission sedan now. But yeah. If your not a mechanic you might want a Corolla instead. Lol.

[@crotalus_horridus1474]

Just bought my first car; 01 1.8 wagon at 118k miles. Replaced rear breaks, vacuum hose, spark plugs, both front end tire rods, new windshield, even the antenna. Best part was the valve cover gasket. Brittle hard, disintegrating and leaking oil. All is fine and well now. Hope to get to at least 230k with her.

[@mattk04]

1999 V6 Passat was my 1st new car and I still miss it, 4 years after letting it go. Replaced with a B6 that I've just never warmed to. Thanks for the video. I was fortunate to not face huge problems with mine though my AC never worked consistently.

[@HumbleMechanic]

+mattk04 yeah the B5 and B5.5 was the best year for the Passat in my opinion.

[@Moto_Medics]

Just inherited one today, surprise! Hope I can figure it out makes me feel better hearing you own one

[@TheHatchet2]

Just replaced the Thermostat and did a coolant flush on my 03 1.8L 5 speed manual. Sitting at 169k miles and expecting to replace the rear shocks soon. I love how it drives. The guy who had it before me took great care of it.

[@TheHatchet2]

Update: did my timing belt a few months ago and replaced the entire power steering system. Yesterday I replaced the valve cover gasket as I had oil leaking into the spark plug holes. Was pleased to see the pleasant gold color on the valve components rather than black sludge! Going to change my oil today and the next project is probably brakes and fluid. my plastic reservoir had a hole on the top which I patched with some epoxy, but I think I should replace it because who knows if another hole could make itself manifest. 201K miles and still purring away!

[@johne6081]

Your channel, VW Vortex, Passatworld, and RossTech have been huge time and money savers for me.

[@HumbleMechanic]

Thank you!!!

[@BaltimoreAndOhioRR]

It's a shame such a supposedly well-designed and over-engineered car ended up having so many design problems. I have a 2005 Passat TDI and it drives fantastic! I always equate it to a poor man's BMW, driving-wise. Gets great fuel mileage at the same time. Yeah, some oil leaks, transmission rebuild, a few drive shafts, window regulator, door lock mechanisms, A/C, and random check engine lights every few months. Other than those design flaws, seems to be built like a tank. Love the car! 🚘

[@tylermartin799]

Instablaster.

[@matejovich]

Great info! I have a 99 B5 Passat by 2.8L manual since 1999 and love it. I've always wanted a 2005 TDI but wasn't sure it would be reliable etc. Good to hear it can be good!

[@diverwil97]

Great vid!!! I've had my 2001 passat 2.8l v6 30 valve for about a couple of months now. Apart from my punch list (Valve cover leakage and so on), I think it has a lot of potential.

[@JDMasonFX]

Hey just curious to see if your punch list has grown or if your B5 V6 has treated you well? There is an inexpensive one for sale locally and has a laundry list of repairs already made to it. I'm thinking about rolling the dice. it's '99 v6 30v i've heard that it's terrible and people love it. VW owners we're a special breed

[@Happy-Me.]

I've had mine 11 years and still going strong. Not one bit of rust on her! She's so well made. Definitely over engineered and if I won the lottery I would keep her. I'd also buy a Porsche 911 of course!!😉👍

[@lorenzoparedes2306]

I viewed this video not long after I bought my used '05 2.8L V6 Passat, and it gave me an idea of what to expect. We're now 3 years later, and I have replaced the brake pads on all 4 corners, the rear shock absorbers, the passenger side transmission shaft, the ignition block, the fuel injectors, the MAF sensor, the solenoid purge valve, the PCV valve and hose, the engine and cabin air filters, spark plugs, fuel filter, and even the valve cover gaskets, and the automatic transmission control module. Except for catalytic converters and 02 sensors, I have done all other work myself. I also do my own oil and filter changes. I am not complaining. I have done most of the work as preventive maintenance, because I found out after I bought the car from a private seller that he wasn't much for maintenance on the vehicle. It recently passed the state emissions test, and it's performing rather nicely. It has some zip, though it doesn't have it like my Volvo turbo models. Still, the Passat is a nice car, and it's fun to drive. Oh. I almost forgot: I corrected the sunroof water drains issue myself as well.

[@Magster2447]

How you solved drainage problem?

[@lorenzoparedes2306]

@@Magster2447 Hi. The drain tubes have pinch type ends, and they exit by the door pillars near the door hinges. Unless you live in the desert, that's where organic debris collects, such as flying maple seeds and leaves. It doesn't take long for those pinch tubes to clog. First, snip off those pinch ends very carefully without damaging anything or scratching the paint. Then, slide the sunroof back, and while using a step stool, look for the drainage holes in the sunroof channel. Using a flexible length of insulated electrical copper wire (#14 should do it) push it gently through each drain tube until it exits at the end of the drain tube near the door pillar/hinge. You might have to make a reducer with duct tape or similar to connect a small hose to your standard garden hose. Run a GENTLE stream of water inside the drain tubes until all debris is cleaned out. Do not push forcefully, or you will disconnect the rubber drain tube from the channel under the roof liner. This cannot be overemphasized! All of the foregoing instructions are offered for anyone to use them completely at their own risk.

[@Magster2447]

@@lorenzoparedes2306 Thank you!

[@coldcarnival]

I had a 2001 v6, great car but was a nightmare in repairs

[@mjmorrill081]

2000 B5 wagon, ATW. Apparantly they had an issue with dodgy ignition coils. I got tired of replacing them on a yearly basis. I purchased the next generation coils and adapter plate from ECS, no issues for years now. I highly recommend swapping them out. Keeps the pesky blinking CEL away!

[@joes.7536]

MY advice to any VW owner. Stay away from the brand "URO". I've had two of their parts fail out of the box within one month. The last time stranding me and my two-year-old daughter. A belt tensioner. I learned my lesson. Only quality or OE parts from here on out

[@lakeshorerides]

I think it depends what you are buying, I've had a uro metal impeller water pump in my e30 for 5+ years now no problems.

[@badboysweetheart1]

Good video man.. I see all these problems in mine now...lmao... I got power issue figured out .. Wires from the radio were hooked directly into the obd2's power wire. These ended up rubbing metal dash frame and grounded out and melted in turn kept the fuse blowing .... Thanks for getting back to me and trying to shed some light on the issue for me...👍🏼👍🏼

[@asherq8646]

I bought a 2004 1.8t 5 speed for 800$. Car has 340,000 (mi) on it. Only issues so far are rear brakes, flex pipe after first cat rusted out, and one of the old boost hoses has cracked since I bought it(currently use the car 4-5 hours daily WITH this still broken ).Other than that, car runs like a top ! Strong cars. The transmission shifts perfectly it’s almost nuts how smooth it is for the mileage.

[@ImREWW]

Im buying a 2004 B5.5 sedan tomorrow with nice specs with the 1.8t engine for 700€ and it has 300k kilometers on it, would you say its worth since you got yours?😌

[@wgmskiing]

Up here in NY the lack of shims on the rear caliper bracket combined with our famous corrosion means uneven pad wear, soft pedal etc from the pad essentially wearing a divot into the bearing surface of the caliper bracket. So you get to replace the pads, rotors, and brackets. Cars with shims on that bearing surface will often get so tight from corrosion here that the pad will seize and burn up, but at least you can fix that cheaply enough by sandblasting the bracket and returning it to service.

[@vivianbates6149]

I am slowly restoring a 2002 VW Passat v6 4 motion that I had to dry new valve gasket covers. Already replaced the heater core, the ignition lock housing, and the starter motor! Next up timing belt, and water pump! But I love the way a VW runs once she’s all fixed!

[@_brushie]

Hearing these kind of things about a model year of car always scares me from buying one even if I DYI most of my stuff.

[@erickp3407]

I got a passat b5 4motion v6 wagon as a first car and im still working on it vag-com or vcds is a life saver since ive runned into so many issues with this car but i love it so much

[@HumbleMechanic]

LOL, those poor Passats were crazy expensive to maintain and repair. But damn do I love mine.

[@Nickersont88]

Man, I owned a base '99 B5 1.8T to 232k miles and I only had to replace the clutch and an axle. It's been my most reliable car! Crazy to hear has such a poor reliability record. I took the valve cover off at 180k and didn't see any sludge up there. I ended up giving it away due to a problem with the power delivery that I just couldn't track down. Also I totally agree it's an awesome car to drive. I miss that old gal.

[@ryanstlarbuckle]

Trevor Nickerson I also feel my '04.5 AWM is the most reliable car I've owned. The repairs needed are minute compared to American cars.

[@johne6081]

Ours is great, as well -- you just need to take proper care of them.

[@snoopy5736]

Was it the epc light?

[@TheLeandro6234]

I have a B5 AFN110 and from far, the best motor I had in my life! Reaching 500.000kms and still with a lot of health! But yeah, lots of cronical problems... Control arms, water leaks and comfort module replaced twice, micro switches that suck, and a lot more... But I can't let it go, it's an amazing motor and I love it!

[@Onyiipresh]

Love that car, Wana sale?

[@TheLeandro6234]

Sure, you just have to ship it to your country cause it's in my country, Portugal. 😁

[@Onyiipresh]

How much is it going for?

[@TheLeandro6234]

2500€

[@Onyiipresh]

Which model?

[@AzDaHa]

I have the 2004 model (december) 1.9 TDI never had any problems besides the front suspension,the engine is great my did 330.000 km and no problems here

[@Zemael]

Thank you very much. I loove My 1.8T variant, but I´m facing these problems. But the water leaks are the worst! Water enters on the polen filter and goes to the passenger floor. I wolud never find it without youtube.

[@donaldasayers]

I think that the oil leaks and the sludging had a common cause, namely that the crank case ventilation system did not work very well. The crank case became pressurised and shoved oil out every which way and caused the sludging. Mine did 185 k before I dumped it, the engine was fine and oil tight but the suspension...

[@mikebrant97]

Other thing I'll tell you guys I also work for a vw shop in Washington state. I had head gasket seepage 1.8t awm. I didn't put new head gasket in. I arp studded it. One head bolt at a time it's now holds 22psi boost with no issue.

[@bshwayde]

This post rang true for me. Had a 2002 b5.5 v6 4motion that i loved too much. I think I had all 5 of the issues you listed plus the gas tank leak, freaky phantom sunroof opening by itself, door locks going haywire, broken window regulators...etc. I had that car for 11 years and it nearly drove me from the brand because of the maintenance costs. Ultimately I came back and leased a TDI Sportwagen so I feel pretty hosed again. I hope VW cleans up its act and gets a fix for the diesels soon!

[@HumbleMechanic]

+bshwayde We had a customer with a similar car. He spent over 10k in repairs over the life of the car. It was sad to add all that up. But he loved that car!

[@TopSecretVid]

Had the water leak issue..thank goodness it was only coming from the doors..I had seal the inner door panel with silicone. Thank god I caught it in time. No other water leaks in my b5.5 1.8T Wagon/Estate..

[@fn5k]

I guess I'm lucky that my 2001 1.8T has had none of the five issues mentioned. I've always used full synthetic and 100 octane fuel (EU rating, I'm not sure how that converts to the US denomination). I recently replaced the MAF and every related rubber tube, as they were starting to disintegrate from age, but other than that, the engine is doing well, and uses basically zero oil, which is unbelievable. Chassis has had no rust, with the exception of front side panels. It was nothing critical and only visible from underneath, but I've had both front panels replaced so that it's not on my mind anymore.

[@cdnmanvanman]

Like you, I absolutely love my 2003 B5.5 Passat Wagon. Owned since new, I've only experienced the premature rear rotor wear at 20,000 KMs, none of the other issues. Pushing 315,000 KM now and still runs like a top. It probably helped that I bought the 1.8T with manual trans. I upgraded to the larger oil filter as soon as I heard about the sludge issue years ago, and I only use 5w40 synthetic. The only other big issues I had was coil pack failure and fuel pump failure around 33K, both covered by warranty. Since then, I've learned to repair all the minor stuff myself, front & rear brakes, new secondary AC fan, clogged rear washer nozzle, seized handbrake cable, cracked coolant bottle, seized hood latch, broken oil dipstick shaft. Had the dealer do the timing belt and inner & outer CV boots, too big a job for me. Still on original clutch, getting ready to pass this wagon down to my son, we'll see how long that clutch lasts!

[@johne6081]

I have been using the monstrous Mann 950/4 oil filter for 17 years. Even better (i.e., bigger) than the recommended upgrade.

[@ravi270783]

almost had all of these issues you pointed our on my v6 2.8 :)

[@wvawater]

I have a 2005 volkswagen passat v6 and just had to replace my alternator at 96k miles, also tons of oil leaks, but I love my car

[@ryanstlarbuckle]

B5.5 owner... Here's what I feel are the top 10 (no order): Cam chain tensioner gasket (oil leak on mid section of back side of engine). Secondary air pump (jet engine noise from lower passenger front)-P0441 code "Incorrect flow" Engine sludge- replace cat and start using synthetic oil after seafoam treatment Coolant temperature sensor (coolant leak from top part of back side of engine) Flex pipe crack (loud exhaust sound from middle of car. Replace downpipe that has flex pipe built in) ABS electronic module goes bad (solid ABS light and flashing EPC light at 5mph after starting engine) Joint failures on drive axle (replace all control arms with integrated joints) Drive axle failure (grease on back side of brake/wheel area and metal "clanking" at hard, slow speed turns) EVAP system leak (check engine light, premature fuel cut off when refueling car, gas smell inside car after refueling) Strange power loss/hesitation at full throttle in 2nd-4th gears (PCV system clogged, cracks in hard plastic lines, leaking check valves) I hope this helps someone!

[@gbarker1998]

Yea this seems accurate. I've had a B5 for 2 years and so far I've had issues with the cam tensioner gasket, coolant temp sensor, flex pipe (This was partially my fault however), Evap system purge valve issues, and failed PCV system

[@4chankrozb]

PCV system, I solved very cheap, like 10-15$. And now drive axle failure. In slow turns I feel clanking

[@coolnessmortezchannel9216]

Harness ectrical repair.. Its a great car .. Need several things to repair .. Just love my b5 1.8t Quattro , I see huge potential in my car .. Can let it go .. I have a p0600 code right now and rebuilding my wiring harness .. I'm thinking of upgrading my wires to silicone base wires .. Higher temps. Longer life .. Now that I'm working on my electrical .. And restoring this beast b5 .. If you want something you have to work for it lol .. Great video most of the fails are happening to my car .. I seen this video a year ago and really helped me prepare for my car after my car hit 150k miles .. Thank you !

[@donaldasayers]

Convenience module under water, been there done that, got the (wet) tee shirt. The problem with mine was there was a factory made splice in the wires going to/from the module to the central locking. This was inadequately sealed, so it corroded apart. Two hours to get to it, ten minutes with a soldering iron and and self amalgamating tape to repair. And don't start me on the front suspension...

[@jhallenworld]

I have a 2000 Passat 1.8t with 216K miles (it was my wife's now I drive it). We paid $21K for the car new, and have paid $14K over the years in service and parts: basically it has cost about $2000 a year to own this car (ignoring gas). Here are the most expensive repairs (some at Boston area dealers before I wised up): $1140 clutch, cv boot $455, o2 sensor $400, power lock module $380, abs control module + left tie rod $1300, $1000 replace clutch 2nd time, $700 replace door, timing belt $700, oil sludge clean up $700, $850 control arms replaced. Parts have become cheap for this car- there is a long list of small things I've fixed on my own: window regulator clips, fuel door latch, cooling fan, crankcase breather hose, new headlights, replace rubber radio knob, then upgrade radio for bluetooth, cup holders, rubber storage tray liners, heater vent lights, hood latch, combi valve vacuum hose, new dip stick holder, hood liner clips, door panel clips, comfort control wiring, speaker wiring, seat position latch, new arm rest, new used rims, new wheel well liners, valve cover gasket kit for oil leaks, new used e-brake handle, hood lifter, air filter clips, clean throttle body (engine surging), coolant leak (broken hose). I've been fighting rust: replaced window belts- there is a metal strip in them which rusts and bulges out to create a gap for the water to fall into the door. Clear-coat has worn out, so car needs to be painted- still debating it. Also it needs a wheel bearing.

[@Janet_Airlines802]

I love my 2002 Passat, it runs great except for one thing. The trans bumps a little bit, not hard at all when shift between second and third. Maybe I should bring it in for a fluid change and service. They are great little cars. One piece of advice never cut the wheel all the way, just take the time and make more point turns. Less strain on the front ends. I swear it makes the front end last longer.

[@johne6081]

Yes, get a full pan drop and filter change, not just a tranny fluid drain-and-flush.

[@eddillon2666]

Love my 2003, however yup. all these issues have happened, except the oil sludge issue. My top issues, rear brakes, front calipers seizing, downpipe rusting, interior moisture (no sunroof) tie rods, upper control arms, Cv joints, oil leaks top end, rear window regulator fail and driver door locking switch that controls interior lights to come on etc... Bought it new and get 28-32 MPG, still love it.

[@debunkthejunk1]

No sludge but mine has the other 4. Plus: flex pipes after first cat, clamps after second, engine mounts and voltage regulator. Nothing expensive to fix yourself but time consuming. Fortunately there's lots of information online on how to fix these common issues.

[@johne6081]

Recommended oil filter for the 1.8T: Mann 950/4 -- takes a full quart on pre-fill, pushes my total oil capacity (to the top of the hash on the dipstick) to about 4.3 qt. A slight pain to remove and replace, since it barely clears the left engine mount, but I have been using these for 15 years now. WIX 51333 is similar in size.

[@Happy-Me.]

Great video! Please do more on the Passat!

[@HumbleMechanic]

I will. She needs some maintenance this year. Brakes, oil leaks, timing belt and such

[@peterconnor4193]

Had a b5 on a 00 plate, 1.8 20v turbo wagon, had none of these problems, never used a drop of oil, the problem I had with water leeks was the drain in the engine bay fore wall , caught it early and made sure it stayed clear , most reliable car I ever owned

[@TheFernandesDiogo]

My passat 3bg is now 300.000km (1.9 tdi 130hp) 13 years old and nothig major to report. Only the water leaks.. Usualy the drains clog during summer. Ahh and one repaired aletrnator, one rubber engine mount desintegrated and 2 cv joints left side... Too much torque for that particular part. cluch is still the original. Work horse! Love that car!!!

[@SkyScourgeGod]

I own an 05 Tiptronic wagon as my first car and I loved the hell out of it. I did have the rear brakes issue listed here so I replaced all pads and rotors, and I also had to replace both CV axels (one of which literally fell apart when it was removed, lol). Finally the transmission failed and I'm currently trying to find someone who's willing to put some love into her and get her back on the road. It breaks my heart to have to see her go, but I just couldn't keep up with the big maintenance issues and the transmission ended up being the nail in the coffin for me. Better to sell her to someone who's willing to breath life back into her rather than send her to her deathbed at some junkyard though... :(

[@victoracosta7498]

I’ve never had a VW before . . . Thanks to this info I’ll never get one, I was looking at a 2002 Passat.

[@aygwm]

Bad one to start with for sure.

[@HumbleMechanic]

It’s a great car but man they need a lot of love. And sadly most are in poor shape now. :(

[@christopherjpresti]

1999 Audi B5.5 30V V6 here... Fixed my rear brake problems by modifying the rear brake brackets and pads to accept slider plates (shims). Chronic front upper control arm failures, improved by using Meyle Heavy Duty parts. Got an annoying rear-end squeak? Replacing the rear coil-over shocks with NEW LOWER SHOCK BUSHINGS fixed mine. (Lower shock bushings aren't available by themselves). Have never found a solution to the chronic front CV Axle issues. Constant battle with oil leaks. So tired of buying or having to make special tools. Torque to yield specs on wheel bearing bolts will make the bearings fail early. Torqued mine to 185 ft-lbf and haven't had a bearing fail since. Fixed the sloppy shifter problem by tightening a beefy zip-tie around the worn plastic shifter ball cup. (Works great). If you like working on cars and you're technically adept, these cars can run a long time. Otherwise they end up in the junk yard. (For parts!)

[@joeyzee]

Dont forget the ABS Module, lol

[@technicaltravis9614]

joey zielinkski I need a new one for mine as I write this.

[@adz552]

I have a b5 s4 and some of these sound familiar.

[@MrJoecool101]

I need one too lol ABS is def faulty

[@qbdabarber4178]

joey zielinkski what is your car doing. I was r old I need one for my 02 Passot wagon . It stalls at 35 and 50mph and if I tap the brake it comes out of it

[@ryanstlarbuckle]

Definitely just the electronic module, as the main pump is almost always okay. (Difference between $600 and $1500 part)

[@Nick-Emery]

I have a 2002 2.8 v6 4motion estate, mine has 3 out of these top 5, also I might add blowing exhaust from front flexi pipe which seems to be a common vw thing... but, it does everything I want, towbar for bike rack, roof rails for kayak, quick enough, comfortable, will go anywhere in any weather, it's a beast, affectionately known as Mëin Fuhrër 🤭🤭

[@downtriptripdown]

best model to , someone hits you rear ender 80kmh but build like tank :) reliable regardless . very safe.

[@jrs111561]

Except for the sludge problem, this was like a diary for my old 2.8 V6.

[@hennessy4666]

i drive daily a first generation b5 , 1998 1,6 simple engine , now it has 435.876 km , at about 350.000 i put new gaskets on engine and replace power steering unit ........these 2 interventions were single things i had to do on this car in 20 years , and offcourse oil and filters , brake pads but these are usable parts at all cars.......this car is a tank , never let me down , strong built quality at highest level posible ........i will drive VW and AUDI all my life!

[@HumbleMechanic]

Nice.

[@traianclaudiubene9190]

I have too a Passat b5 1.6 98 simple engine 280k km no problems. On snow is a tank Best Best car

[@jasonkresock2196]

Amen

[@BigSteve_Gaming187]

My X wife got the the 04' 1.8t Vw Passat 5-speed wagon with Four Motion from her father who is a dealer for Toyota so prior to purchase and even when he first got it they ran through all the issues and replaced the items and recall issues rite away. Still running strong n put in the garage every winter here in Wisconsin. Will have it ready for meets and taking it to shows by next spring as far as my goal timeline is goin. Helps that her father also had her take it in Everytime it needed an oil change and they did it. Now she's mine and and I'm still changing the oil seasonally since I haven't put much miles on it while working and upgrading it

[@damiancobb8177]

I just bought an 02 vr6 Passat. Everything seems to be perfect but, I have an oil leak on my manifold 🤗🤗

[@carlosoruna7174]

had a 2001 that I bought new and maintained .. Never had any of those issues..HAd over 300,000 miles when someone crashed into it .. Pads, oils, a few batteries a motor mount and the flex on the exhaust Shocks as well . In short normal wear..

[@ABCDEFGHIJKELA...]

wow, I just bought a used 02' wagon...this depresses me, lol.

[@biridulfagarza5783]

Don't worry every single car needs Maintenance inorder to lastlonger; its a machine and every single machine needs Maintenance regarles of the brand of the car.

[@donbgaines4305]

I baught a 02 passat i need to buypass the immollizer i have little money and no keys it was stolden they broke the ignition out and it will try to start then die can i dis conect the anti theft. Immolbizer and cri e it. That way for a while till i get the mony to fix it

[@thesniper321]

Beware of water leak

[@ABCDEFGHIJKELA...]

3 years later, and I sold the car after using it for almost 2 years. I was very happy with it :) it was an incredibly reliable beater, the only issues I had the entire ownership was with the brakes and interior falling apart. That little motor was a gem, I really wish I would've kept it a while longer, but I needed a truck. I got exactly the amount I bought it for, back. Current owners put some money into it and now use it as a daily.

[@MisterSeanR]

@@ABCDEFGHIJKELA... thanks for the update!

[@petterballin1344]

Most common water leak is from the drain right under the battery. When i worked at vw i used to unclog it at services when necessary

[@lukaszbat3733]

My 2003 1.9 TDI B5 3B3 just turned 300,000KM on the clock last week, drives like new and the car never even smelled a service garage before 😂

[@HumbleMechanic]

NICE!!! The B5 is such an awesome car when it's right.

[@niko5646]

Mine is nearly on 400.000km, all it need to reach the big 0 is about 200km more to go.(1.9 tdi)

[@brucewayne9211]

Just bought a 2005 protect model V6 4 motion and is running ok ... yesterday put 100M/h in highway and was very safe and secure ! It has 90k miles on it !!!

[@HumbleMechanic]

Nice!! When they are right, the are awesome

[@joeyglasses4050]

cold start misfire! cranks fine the second time around! 99 1.8t

[@rstar88105]

Bought my b5.5 wagon manual for 400 bucks with a clean body because it needed a motor (timing belt failure). So far it has been a great way to get acquainted with Volkswagen and VagCom. Thanks for the info on the water drains, I'll be sure to look for clogs pronto.

[@HumbleMechanic]

That's a hell of a deal!!!

[@rstar88105]

@@HumbleMechanic Still driving the car at 270k. Just installed a new timing belt kit, right bank chain tensioner with guides on both sides, AC system, had the starter and alternator rebuilt, pads and rotors all around, 034 motor mounts, welded in new flex pipes and replaced upstream 02's. That should do it till the timing helt is due again. 😆

[@kortufflpaua]

before my uncle goes with his passat to the yearly inspection, he uses a lot of brake cleaner the day before so he wont have to get it unecessarily fixed

[@IntaminFanboy]

Heater core too! I had to get that done on mine as soon as I bought it, along with most of the other stuff people have mentioned here.

[@HumbleMechanic]

Yep those too. Lol

[@silent_insanity3631]

I literally have 4 of these 5 problems with my passat :/ water damage is the worst and should be a recall..

[@teresogarcia269]

This water leak issue is caused by the lower windshield plastic cover. This cover is over the firewall plastic cover that covers the battery from side to side. This specific windshield cover loses grip on that passenger corner and water that slides down goes into the heater fan and into the side of the globe compartment to the passenger floor. It can be confused by a sunroof drainage leak / clog. This video explains how to remove that specific cover kzbin.info/www/bejne/gH20p56ooNl_b7M min 2.20

[@dwaynecadguy1897]

Amazing video. I have a 2000 v6 Passat 5 speed. My airbag light is on. My sunroof channel is missing the bottom part end cap piece where the water is suppose to drain out.. I got an end cap part from junk yard. I hope pulling the carpet back under the driver's side to clean up the water that is probably under there is not too expensive. Also my valve cover gasket is leaking again. So i got to have that fixed as well. Also have check engine light on and popping suspension sound as well.

[@VndNvwYvvSvv]

Tdi cam wear and failure. TDi coolant flange failure due to tandem pump leaks

[@remodz6385]

Charles, just hit 200k miles on my 2001 V6. I've had it since 45k. It's been a great car, but expensive to maintain. But as long as you maintain them they are good cars. Just did a whole gasket job that you gave me some advise on, an I got all 4-6 oil leaks fixed, it's dry for the first time! My rear pads/rotors got changed at about 80k and again at 180k. No water leaks, and I live in Oregon (fingers crossed)! New whole front suspension at about 160k. It's been a B!$@h to work on, we have a love/hate relationship. I love my B5, it's been a good car!

[@HumbleMechanic]

+Nick Schneider :) A love/hate relationship is how many folks feel/felt about the B5!

[@remodz6385]

+HumbleMechanic Very true! Haha

[@colchronic]

Passat: my brakes are awful 2002-2006 Camry: hold my rotors

[@HumbleMechanic]

Hahahha

[@TrinityAlex]

I thought you were going to bash my 1.8T when you said you have the same car, instant upvote :D (mine is from 1998, have 80 k miles on it, and I love my car)

[@Badgertronix]

Love those cars, had a B5.5 tdi sport to over 200,000 miles. Apart from a suspension joint at 170,000 I missed out on the rest of those problems! I had other issues though with coolant leaks, seized alternator pulley and a catalytic converter falling off.

[@simon_a_s]

Got a 2000 passat 1.8T. No repairs for 8 years straight, had coil packs and a waterpump fail now after 10 years of owning it. Approaching 200k miles, still going strong. Made oil changes every 3k miles on it, never any engine related issues - I do see a small valve cover leak that I'll fix some day. Got a 1.8 mk6 Golf as well, that car has been nothing but trouble, everything fails. Engine failure, two times now and it has less than 100k miles on it.

[@vallorahn]

I am just about to make the "comfort module move mod" on my 1999 3B5 85kW TDI saloon, where you move the comfort module under the dash to not deal with the issues while on your second 300k. I love the "therapeutic" side of the job. You know these cars drive 1M if properly maintained.

[@suprafahrer6453]

Can you do a video on the B5 BHW TDI problems? Also do you know if there is a special Part Number for the special BGW/BHW valve cover with the changeable gasket? The later ones I believe require the valve cover being completely replaced.

[@charmainkilloran9476]

My vw had a leak through the cabin filter housing...I had to re-seal it myself. It was leaking into the footwell under the carpet. I.love this car I am half way through re-building it!

[@bradleywiskowski8516]

My 2002 VW Passat 1.8T went to VW heaven today at 216,000 miles. The Culprit? A hole burnt thru cylinder #2 due to a faulty fuel injector. Please use 91 Octane Shell/Conoco gasoline and, if feasible, Clear gas (0% Ethanol). I babied this one and even still she blew.

[@snoopy5736]

RIP lil buddy

[@JDMSwervo2001]

Bradley Wiskowski I use 93 octane

[@YULABEBE]

Was once the second owner of a 2005 1.8T 4Motion up in Canada... One of 198 (or something like that) total. Loved that car, but def. got scared off by the nightmare maintenance stories.

[@mychannel9160]

Passeratti is awesome! :-)

[@sibai84]

I owned a 2003 B5.5 with the V6.I drove it for 6 years and put close to 200k miles on it. The car was great and i loved. One issue i had with it was the heater core leaked coolant. It was an expansive repair. The CV axle boots went out frequently. But over all, it was a great car and I wish I never sold it.

[@HumbleMechanic]

I still have mine, got 160k on the clock. And just found a leaking CV boot LOL

[@dmitryadamenko6518]

Owning vw passat 2004 since 2013. It is v6 2.8 it has 186 k miles on it and I have put the recent 100k. So here is my experience. 1. Oil disappears (1 qt per 1000miles), but no leaks 2. No water leak in the car even with open moon roof 3. No suspension failures. 4. Never had an issue. See #1 5. No issue with rear breaks.

[@MrKinir]

It sure likes to drink oil :D They even state it in the driver's manual, if I recall correctly. My 1.9 TDI likes to drink oil too.

[@davidnelson4193]

Dmitry Adamenko Going to look at one of these tonight. What you think of it?

[@dmitryadamenko6518]

@@davidnelson4193 get extended warranty as well.

[@mindymeek2]

Exactly how I describe my 2003 Passat 4motion v6 2.8. 147k miles. I'm curious what type and brand of oil you use?

[@dmitryadamenko6518]

@@mindymeek2 in VW dealership they put 5W40 (not sure about a brand), I found 5W40 in NAPA auto parts for toping. When I changed oil myself I used 0w40 from Mobile 1.

[@DoubleSmackJacksSmackAttack]

I've been slowly restoring a 99 Passat for a close friend and this video is right on the money. At 140K miles it leaks oil like a sieve, I had to modify and clear out all of the sunroof drains, replace bad tie rod ends, and it's needing new rear brake pads. The water on the controle modules is worrying as I've had to reset the tiptronic system twice and so far it hasn't come back. So far I've had to: Replace the headlight units and turn signals (that's expected at least for a composite headlight car) Fix the Sunroof Fix the Folding Mirrors (they would get stuck inwards) Replace THREE window regulators Re-install numerous pieces of trim. Replace all four of the VW emblems on the wheels (the all fell off) Reglue the sideview mirror glass back on. Convert the rain sensing wipers back to intermittent wipers after the rear-view mirror broke and the mount was removed (which housed the rain sensor). The radio buttons are falling off It needs new bumpers (bad respray job after a minor fender bender) Once it gets new struts, tires, tie rod ends, and rear brakes and new gaskets it'll be good as new until something else fails I guess! It's a shame because it's a blast to drive but the previous owner before he got it absolutely trashed the thing, inside and out. I'm used to working on 80s body on frame sedans, not these actually-engineered German cars!

[@trulyirrelevant17]

Me with my 180K mile V6 GLS Passat is holding on. It’s only tiny problem is a small oil leak but I’ll look into these problems

[@99Lezard99]

Im german. I work at a small vw audi dealership as a parts manager since about 6 years. I drive honda and mazda....and im fine.

[@luisarias329]

yo have sperience in passat can hoy Tel me no crank no star isue in A passat 99 1.8t..tanks

[@99Lezard99]

luis arias is that supposed to be english? No start 1.8t could be a lot. Sounds like an electrical issue or the starter itself. Its a vw it could basicly be anything.

[@keithmalcolm5689]

99Lezard99 n

[@garrydhintz8017]

Hi I have a 2004 passat 1.8t. I'm doing a timing belt replacement. I might need a tensioner and idler pulley too. Do you think that aftermarket parts will be acceptable to use or should I only be looking for OEM parts? Also what brand and oil type would you recommend for an oil change? I hope that quality oil will keep the seals from leaking and keep sludge to a minimum. Danke für Ihr Hilfe! If I said thank you for your help wrong I'm sorry. I forgot almost all my German.

[@leedog918]

Garryd Hintz I put a gates racing timing belt with a autozone tensioner about 3,000 miles ago and I haven’t had a promblem and I use Castrol 5w-40 full synth

[@kingpleb3808]

My dad bought one new in 2005. It's a 1.8t manual. I learned how to drive in one of these and I still have it. It currently sits at 230000km and the only issues I can recall are a fuel line leak, an exhaust leak (I actually thought that sounded cool tho) and a turbo failure (that's actually pretty common, but it doesn't affect the drivability whatsoever, my dad found that out after a month of driving like that). Other than that it had no problems. You change oil and spark plugs once per 10000km and the car becomes BULLETPROOF. And it's surprisingly peppy for a station wagon too

[@silent_insanity3631]

Also the flex pipe portion of the exhaust goes very often but is a cheep repair but just saying.

[@geogmz8277]

Silent_Insanity hahaha just replaced that today.. And while I was there notice tons! Of oil coming down.. I have 2 of the issue.. 😂😂😂

[@ryanstlarbuckle]

Getting ready to do my 2nd flex pipe (full down pipe) replacement at 170k miles on my '04

[@coldcarnival]

Lmao I had to do it twice in 5k

[@ancientapparition1638]

every fucking time lol

[@JDMSwervo2001]

Silent_Insanity I just replaced mines last October lol

[@brbhave2p00p4]

Owned a B5 1.8T 1999 automatic. The transmission shifted poorly, rear right door didn’t get electric at all which lead to non working locks and power window. Driver door handle needed to be pulled twice or more often so the door opens, engine temperature sensor failed, etc... the look however, I loved the B5 generation.

[@jaredtopilko1313]

How about b6 wet footwells on the a Passenger side?

[@Janet_Airlines802]

I just did my valve cover gasket and luckily the previous owners took great care of my car. It's got 151k and it looked so clean, The cams were perfect . I bought the car from a 80 yr old couple. They bought it brand new and had it serviced at VW its whole life. The whole front end is new, they must of had that failure. I have replaced the thermo and engine coolant temp sensor, I have to do the nuetral safety switch, waiting on that part now. The transmision can bump a little sometimes but other then that it's been a great car, I love driving it.

[@aeroserge]

Catalytic Converter!!!!!

[@historyboy08]

I had a 2003 Passat B5.5 1.8T and I was spending so much money getting it fixed. Glad I sold mine and bought a 2007 Passat B6 Wagon. Hardly spent any money on it other than replacing the CV boots, front struts, and cam lead and camshaft (under warranty), etc.

[@HumbleMechanic]

+Kevin Renner they really are much better as far as maintenance goes.

[@geraldward9765]

Did you edit out all the blinks?

[@HumbleMechanic]

every last one of those damn things. LOL

[@MWXYT]

You obviously didn't have a chance to work with B5 biggest failure - 2.5TDi...

[@HumbleMechanic]

LOL, we never got that engine here. :)

[@MWXYT]

For its times it was a quite complicated V6 TDi engine, with very cool torque/power characteristics. Unfortunately VW made a huuge mistake when designing it's camshafts - they were too soft and wore out very quickly. They've changed a whole valvetrain around 2003 - with new hollow camshafts and rocker arms with rollers they finally dealt with the problem.

[@user-ok9xk4bw3j]

MWXYT I heard that Audi A6 with 2.5 TDI is reliable,but Passat 2.5 ???

[@Tegelane5]

@@MWXYT Compared to todays diesels it actually isn't that bad. Those camshafts arent that expensive to replace compared to some newer injectors. Biggest problem is that this engine isn't that economical for a diesel.

[@karnubawax]

I got my 2000 Passat with 90K on it, and put another 100K on it before the famous 2023 storms in California. The water got in and has taken out the TCM. I'm torn between trying to fix this myself or just calling it a day. I planned to get a new car in the summer anyway, so it may just be time to put it out to pasture. So sad. It was a great car.