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Used 2002 Volkswagen Passat Sedan Consumer Reviews

4.4 out of 5 stars
349 reviews

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3 out of 5 stars

Same issues EVERYONE has...

Disappointed, 02/24/2010
2002 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

Bought "certified used" ran great for the extended warranty period. Heater stopped working 1yr after purchase, brought it to the dealer only to be told it was working fine, charged $200 for the "labor". Heater still blew cool air but I couldn't pay more money so I just made do. 3 yrs later, check oil pressure warnings consistently 1k-2k miles before the suggested oil service. I put so much oil into this piece I have to keep 5qt jugs in the trunk, NO LEAKS! Where is it going?! All 4 ignition coils burnt out! Never got recall notices but after calling THEM was told I qualify. Thermostat stuck open, clogged heater core. Headlamps constantly burn out, replaced all of them nearly twice a year!

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2.88 out of 5 stars

Disappointed

Derek Glaaser, 12/22/2004
2002 Volkswagen Passat GLS V6 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

I have had numerous engine and structural difficulties with the Passat, from engine malfunction and brake pumps failure on several occasions, to doors and windows not working electronically, or doors not closing. Engine failure has been the primary problem, although the design of the shield to prevent water from leaking into and accumulating in the space between the body and the engine has also been a major issue. There have also been many factory recalls on components beyond those that have malfunctioned on my car. VW responsiveness at the corporate level has been unsatisfactory.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

somone who likes their passat

vdub4life, 07/31/2009
2002 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

I bought my passat in 05. i have always like volkswagens but if your are going to buy one you must get the previous service records. this car hs been great very fun to drive and great in the snow. traction control, abs and, 6 air bags. very safe. synthetic oil is expensive but cleaner and better and premium gas burns cleaner and is better for the car. i have had no problems or dislikes. if you take car of it it takes car of you. o yea if you use nicer bulbs, they last longer don't buy the cheapest its not always the beat deal

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4.88 out of 5 stars

an absolutely solid car, without a new car replacement

topagentgroup, 11/11/2012
2002 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
15 of 22 people found this review helpful

I bought this car with about 20000 miles at less than a year old for $15500. I'm at 138000 with a private party value of $4500, it's been going up in value the past 3 years! An absolute joy to drive with the 4 cyl turbo and 34mpg. It seems to be a timeless styling blck/blck shines nicely. Synthetic only!! can't stress that enough and use the VW coolant. everyday garages will mess this car up like a bad hangover. I found an old VW specialized mechanic, won't let any other cars in the garage and has kept it running well for reasonable $. Replaced, timing belt/water pump at 80k, both frnt window regulators, 3 sets of tires/brakes, 2CV joints, 1 set of rotors,fuel pump at 136k due to ethanol

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Good Review for Great Car!

carguy133, 03/08/2011
2002 Volkswagen Passat GLX 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful

This car is great. Exceptional handling, acceleration and design. 4motion system is great in all weather, especially in my town where salt is not used and the roads become solid ice and snow from December until late March. About 110k miles, full synthetic oil and the engine (not exaggerating) sounds new. Only problems (as with all cars) AC leaks because I neglected to turn it on enough and tiny beginning of rust on one fender, but will be covered by 12 year rust warranty. Other than that zero mechanical problems, which may surprise some. I don't baby the car at all, but stay on top of it very well (oil, filters, etc.). Honestly, take care of this machine and it will take care of you.

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