Volkswagen Passat 1998 - Service brakes - car safety information, failing parts, recalls, bulletins, complaints

Volkswagen Passat 1998

Recalls
Technical Service Bulletins
Defect investigations
Consumer Complaints

Recalls

Campaign	Manufacturer	Manufacturing date	Type	# of units affected	Date Owner notified Mfg	Recall Initiated by	Manufacturers of recalled vehicles/products	Report Recieved Date	Record Creation Date
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - POWER ASSIST - VACUUM - HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
99V131001	VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC	from 10/01/1997 to 02/28/1999	V (Vehicle)	88121	10/09/1999	ODI	VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC	05/21/1999	01/21/2000
Defect Summary	Vehicle description: passenger vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions. a control valve in the vacuum hose connecting the brake booster to the intake manifold may not open or close fully at temperatures below -4 f under certain driving conditions.
Consequence Summary	This condition could cause insufficient vacuum to be provided to the brake booster.
Corrective Summary	Dealers will install a vacuum by-pass system into vehicles operated in these states which is designed to provide sufficient vacuum for full brake assist under all weather conditions.
Notes	Owner notification began october 9, 1999.owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact vw at 1-800-822-8987 or audi at 1-800-822-2834.also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).

Bulletins

Bulletin	Bulletin date	Replacement Bulletin	Item no.	Summary	Added
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR - ANTILOCK - CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
TT-45-06-54	11/16/2012		10051242	Volkswagen: update to information. providing correct coding values for abs control modules on certain vehicles without can-bus. models 1998-2002 passat. *pe	02/25/2013
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - ANTILOCK - CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
0517	07/14/2005	0521	10016037	Anti-lock brake system (abs) control module warranty repair process. *tt	08/19/2005

Investigations

NHTSA ID	Manufacturer	Date open	Date close	Subject	Recall campaign
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
RQ99008	VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC	06/01/1999	11/14/2000	POWER BRAKE BOOSTER VACUUM BY-PASS	99V131001
	A control valve in the vacuum hose connecting the brake booster to the intake manifold can fail to open or close fully at low temperature resulting in insufficient vacuum for proper operation of the brake booster

Consumer Complaints

Fail date	miles	occurences	Purchase date
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR - ANTILOCK - ABS WARNING LIGHT
08/08/2005		15	12/23/2002
	Morrison auto group repaired rear brakes as they were stuck. after this repair the abs light, brake light, oil light came on blinking. the tachometer also zero's out. a warning noise also occurs. this happens intermittently. while this warning light is on the abs system is disabled. braking works but no abs available. i live in alaska and can't have my car without abs esp during critical times of braking. i have read on tech forums for this type of car that this is a widespread (more than a handful of cars). the exorbirant cost of this repair (as stated by others) for something that should not be failing within its lifetime.
10/01/2003	24000	1	07/01/1998
	Abs module warning light & alarm indicate failure of abs
06/17/2003	103000	1
	1) normal driving, highway speed. 2)abs warning light, abs failure upon testing, annoying brake/abs lights and warning tone 3) repaired abs control module through repair service. not through dealer
05/14/2005	80000
	Abs light and brake light comes on when i start the car and it stays on while i drive my car. the brake light blinks continuously and in bad weather you can feel that abs is not working. from vw passat forms i understood this is a common problem with 98+ passat models. i talked to some local shops and they told they are familiar with this problem and i have to take it to the vw dealer. i talked to a dealer and they told me it is $150 to check the problem and if the problem is related to abs circuit or something then it is going to cost me around $2000+. that is around 25% of my cars current value and from my understanding lot of people are facing the same problem. it is a safety issue and i am very disappointed about vw's reliability.
06/10/2005	83730	2	10/13/2003
	Abs and brake light intermittently light up and sound an emergency. i've taken the car to two garages, and neither place can determine the problem. sometimes i cani feel my abs system lock up if i am turning (not in any wet conditions); and in those occasions, i was fortunate that no cars had been coming toward me b/c i was unable to gain control. neither mechanic saw any fault in my brakes, brake pads, shoes, etc., so there is something electrical to blame; and this is a complaint heard often with 1998-1999 vw passats. either way, nothing has been done to correct the failure, only 300.00 in diagnostics.
06/02/2005	89000	50	05/28/2005
	1998 passat 1.8t b5 bodystyle. bough car at 88,000 miles used from a dealership who inspected it. abs abd brake light go on and stay on for an extended time. passatworld website shows hundreds of people wiht this same problem vw needs to do a recall. part are too expensive for me to fix.
05/24/2005	79890	1	06/10/2001
	Our 1998 volkswagen passat gls 4 cylinder sedan (80k miles) had intermittent warning lights go on for the abs system and the brakes. the manual states that when the warning lights go on the abs system is disabled and that the car should be serviced immediately. there was no regular pattern to the lights coming on, but once it started it happened virtually every trip at different times. i drove for about a week with the light on with no apparent loss of braking ability. i did experience a failure of the abs system while the light was on (on a hill on a rainy day) and so determined it should be repaired. we took the car in to the local dealership and they could not diagnose the problem until the warning lights were on. we came back with the warning lights on and they told us we needed to replace the abs control module at a cost of $2600. we went ahead and did the repair. we did not keep the previous part. we are distressed that a single part from a safety system is so expensive and that the problem is widespread in audis and vws. visit any online car forum and it is filled with stories of this repair. because this is a safety issue i feel volkswagen be alerted to this issue and a formal complaint should be registered about this safety system malfunction.
05/20/2004		1000
	Daily driving conditions the abs light comes on with audible warning and the brake light blinks continuously. root problem is the abs electronic module that is malfunctioning. this is a very common problem as much web research has been conducted through online passat forums.
08/01/2004	80000	1	03/01/1998
	Abs light and brake light comes on intermittently indicating abs failure.dealer said it is a bad abs computer $1500+ 2 to 3 hours of labor. this started this month and goes on and off .*ak
03/05/2004	103500		05/11/1998
	Abs light in my 1998 passat glx will come on intermittantly along with the brake and low oil lights. wrote president of vw of america and was told they would not help. they want to replace abs module at $2200. the web is full of folks with the same problem. the part must be defective...there should be a recall.
10/01/2003	48500	1	05/25/1998
	Abs and brake lights go on and off sporatically on my 1998 vw passat. dealer says abs control unit (vw part no. 8e061411q) has gone bad. vw of america refuses to cover it even though car has less than 50,000 miles. replacement cost is about $2500.00. *ak
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR - ANTILOCK - CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
07/21/2005
	Abs control module failed. $2200 for part no labor, search online shows massive failures or bosch 5.3 and 5.3i unit used in passat and a4.
05/24/2005	79890	1	06/10/2001
	Our 1998 volkswagen passat gls 4 cylinder sedan (80k miles) had intermittent warning lights go on for the abs system and the brakes. the manual states that when the warning lights go on the abs system is disabled and that the car should be serviced immediately. there was no regular pattern to the lights coming on, but once it started it happened virtually every trip at different times. i drove for about a week with the light on with no apparent loss of braking ability. i did experience a failure of the abs system while the light was on (on a hill on a rainy day) and so determined it should be repaired. we took the car in to the local dealership and they could not diagnose the problem until the warning lights were on. we came back with the warning lights on and they told us we needed to replace the abs control module at a cost of $2600. we went ahead and did the repair. we did not keep the previous part. we are distressed that a single part from a safety system is so expensive and that the problem is widespread in audis and vws. visit any online car forum and it is filled with stories of this repair. because this is a safety issue i feel volkswagen be alerted to this issue and a formal complaint should be registered about this safety system malfunction.
05/20/2004		1000
	Daily driving conditions the abs light comes on with audible warning and the brake light blinks continuously. root problem is the abs electronic module that is malfunctioning. this is a very common problem as much web research has been conducted through online passat forums.
02/21/2004	67680	1	07/25/1998
	My abs and brake light became illumlinated on the instrument cluster. i had the trouble lights diagnosed at the 70k service and the dealer noted the abs control module was defective and needed to be replaced at an estimated cost of $1,800. the brakes continued to work, however the anti-lock braking system was not operable due to the failed control module. volkswagon was unwilling to fix the problem and i have sent the module to an outside vendor for a complete rebuild of the unit.*ak
10/15/2004	85000	80
	1. early on braking (intermittent) and now always at engine startup 2. the abs brake comes on solid, the brake light flashes, and three beeps on engine startup. this indicates that the abs braking system has failed. and indeed i currently have no abs, although the brakes work, and the car cannot pass dc inspection because of the warining lights on the dashboard. 3. i have attempted to diagnose the problem by running the vag-com diagnostics on it. vag-com cannot communicate with the abs control module which indicates the abs control module must be replaced. i am currently in pursuit of a used replacement part or a rebuild of the current module due to the high price of this part from vw and the fact that it has not been recalled. i have also submitted a complaint to vw of america.*ak
10/04/2004	58500	1	12/28/1998
	Failure of computer modual for abs (automatic braking system). abs system no longer works.*ak
12/01/2003	84000	1	01/08/1998
	My 1998 vw passat has 85,000 miles on it and a problem with the abs control unit. the abs light stays on steadily and the brake light flashes with an audible four-chime tone. the vw dealer tested and confirmed that i need a new abs pump/control. the cost of parts and labor is $2,100. since purchasing this vehicle, i have had many problems with it from replacing the turbo charger to a complete replacement of the front-end suspension to name a few. vw of america declined to help with this problem because of the mileage. i used to own a toyota with 250,000 miles on it when i sold it and never had problems with it like i have with this car.*ak
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR - DISC - ROTOR
07/26/2004		3	01/06/2002
	1998 vw passat: heard loud clanking noises especially when turning vehicle. reported to vw service department local dealership. advised the the upper control arm joint is worn and need replacement. further, both left and right tie rods are totally shot and need replacing. checked and found that the tie rod problem was recalled by nhtsa sep. 1999 (99v-248) but that my vehicle was not included in recall. do not know why as the problem described is the same. additionally, numerous complaints about the control arms have been noted on this site, yet vw of america, who advised me are aware and sensitive to the problem, refused assistance in repairing the vehicle. also the recalled tie rods replacement was refused to be fixed by them. please follow up and investigate vw of america for these very important safety issues since i was told that they can cause serious driver accidents. i am also wondering why the brake rotors needed replacement when new brakes were installed. do not trust vw to be a safe vehicle at this time. *ak
SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC
12/07/2008	68000	1
	The abs light stays on, the brake light flashes, the engine oil light comes on and the tachometer goes to 0 and stops working even though i am accelerating. the control module was the culprit and it would cost $1450.00 and there was no used part available and it is a dealer only part. *tr
04/10/2008		1
	As an oem safety feature, now i believe required, the abs control module on my 1998 volkswagen passat, has failed, leaving this feature inoperative. luckily for my self this has not become a burden or caused injury, but i'm sure that others are not as lucky as i have been. *tr
06/06/2005	56000	1
	My abs computer failed on my 1998 v6 passat. this seems to be a common occurrence and there should have been a recall on this defective part. it is dangerous and causes irregular braking and flashing dashboard lights. *tr
05/01/2007	60000	1
	Abs/ brake light are on, chimes sound when vehicle is turned on and won't turn off. *tr
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
10/01/2010	110000
	Abs module appears to be faulty. abs and brake light remain on/flashing. loss of abs could cause collision, dealer wants $1000+ for the part and does not guarantee it will fix the problem
12/09/2008	68000	1
	The abs light comes on,followed by the brake light blinking the engine oil light comes on and the tachometer goes to 0 and stops working even though i am accelerating. there are many others with this same issue it can be researched on http://tech.bentleypublishers.com/thread.jspa?threadid=2447&tstart=0. *tr
02/15/2007	90000	1
	Abs module in operative abs system. *tr
09/01/2008	175000	1
	The abs module in my 1998 volkswagen passat 1.8t has gone bad. this fault came without notice of any symptoms and completely unprovoked. the warning lamp and tone appear every time i start the vehicle. this is a known issue with many independent volkswagen mechanics and many passat owners. *tr
01/01/2008	150000	1
	Abs computer failure 98 vw passat... complete absfailure all the time. *tr
10/01/2004	60000	1
	Abs brakes ceased to function after approx 60k miles. because of the expense to fix (dealer quoted $2400, indie mechs about $1400), they remain non-functional (my car is now 95k miles). *tr
08/02/2008	101000	1
	Abs/ brake light are on and 3 chimes sound when vehicle is turned on. *tr
04/04/2004
	Like many, many others, my 1998 vw passat 2.8 liter with tiptronic (automatic) transmission has the following problems: 1) abs light on (abs not working); 2) brake light on (both before and after all rotors & pads were replaced and fluid changed); 3) tachometer not working; 4) oil light on (but oil level and pressure are okay). this was an intermittent problem that began early this year but is now almost constant. all problems appear to be caused by a bad abs controller, which is also used in audi a4 models (part # 8e0 614 111r). vw dealership quotes over $1000 for the part alone. sometimes, if the car has been sitting a few days or if it is cold outside, the lights do not come on and the tachometer works correctly for awhile. then, all of a sudden, all the above-mentioned problems happen. or, i will be driving the car with the problems, then the tach jumps to life and all the warning lights go out. as i said before: there are numerous people who have the same problems. this is a safety issue (no abs could lead to accidents) as well as a quality issue: abs controllers should not fail so frequently on such relatively new vehicles. a recall should be performed by volkswagon and audi to replace defective abs controllers in their 1998-on passat and 1996-on a4 models. thank you, marc jacobi. *nm
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - ANTILOCK
08/10/2007	168975
	Abs controller failed. module scan showed: 01203 - electrical connection between abs and instrument cluster 03-10 - no signal - intermittent. *jb
11/30/2006		1
	Volkswagen passat 1998 dashboard indicated that the abs brakes failed. replacement or repair was estimated at approx $1,000. *ak
06/10/2003	30000	4380
	Abs light came on with less than 30,000 miles on it. for 4 years, the vw dealer said it would be over $1,800 to replace the abs pump. last year they said it would be $2750. after seeing on internet threads that the common cause is only the abs module, i confronted the dealer, and they sai it would $650, and it has worked fine since. i feel vw dealers are not forthright in telling customers about the less expensive solution, and they should pay for it, since it is a known common defect, and a safety hazard. i have been told that many people are pulling the bulb out, and buyers may not be aware the abs doesn't work. until its too late. *nm
01/10/2005		1
	1998 vw passat abs control module failure. this $1000 part seems to be a very consistent failure at volkswagen. *jb
02/12/2006	100175	1	04/20/2000
	Abs failed, flashing lights continually. spoke with dealer in seaside, ca said common event and not worth replacing. *jb
09/07/2005	99500	1	04/08/2005
	I have a 1998 vw passat that has had it abs system go out. from what i understand this is a common occurrence with this car. the only problem is when the abs module goes on the car it has a hard time modulating the brakes correctly causing a dangerous situation. i will have to either buy a new unit or send it out and have it repaired. *jb
01/01/2004	103000	11	01/01/1998
	1998 vw passat wagon 2 wheel drive 4 cyl. 1.8 l engine. manual transmission vin: wvwna63b4we329363 things broken on this vw. blinking abs light on dash indicating abs malfunction. it intermittently goes off once or twice a year for a couple of minutes, indicating function properly. temp. gauge on dash reads no temperature or 0. it intermittently comes back on and functions properly. i need to pull sending unit wire and clean connector. driver's auto door lock button malfunctions. window switches on drivers door doesn't work well. stereo plays cd without pushing the button. (goes on buy its self) left rear passenger door does not open from inside.. moon roof malfunctions. maybe won't close after opening. brake light's don't light up right away when you step on the brakes. outside door locks stick. when it rains, water gets into the lock and make's it difficult to turn the key inside the lock. plastic dip stick guide is prone to crumbling due to heat. (this is the orange piece of plastic that extends the length of the dipstick tube. antenna got screwed up in rain and wind. dec. -05. *jb
07/16/2005	106000	10	04/23/2005
	98 passat, abs pump is not working anymore at 106000 miles. i wanted to replace the part but the dealer told me i have to pay $1200.00 just for the part. is vw usa considering a recall because in my opinion a $1200.00 part should not fail to work so fast. *jb
10/10/2005	51000	1	04/11/1998
	Abs electronic control module failure. *jb
05/01/2005	90000	2
	Dt: the abs module failed. first noticed on 5/1/05 when driving and abs light came on and brake lights (exterior) started flashing. then a beeping noise came to warn along with light. when emergency braking the brakes lock. happens at any weather conditions/up and down hill or any type of road. the problem has not been looked at by dealer, but has been looked at by mechanic, the abs module is the part that needs replacement. *ak.
04/15/2005	92600	2
	I drive a 1998 volkswagen passat. after about 2 weeks of annoying warnings that something was wrong with my abs system i took the carto my independent mechanic. he hooked a scanner up to it and checked the brake system all day, and found nothing wrong with the car, other than the fact that the brake fluid was overfilled. he fixed that minor problem, but did not fix the original issue. after another week, i finally broke down and took the car to the dealer - heritage volkswagen on reisterstown road in owings mills, md. they hooked a scanner up to it as well, and found that i needes a new abs control unit. this was a part that, they said, would cost $3,000 just for the part! after doing my own research, it seemed this was one of many volkswagen passats that experienced the problem, but every one was being charged $1,500 for the part. this ought to be a class action lawsuit against volkswagen of america, and heritage volkswagen ought to be investigated for overcharging their customers.*ak
11/01/2004	95000	1	02/01/1998
	Abs failure. *ak
02/27/2005	77700	1	05/16/1998
	I am the original owner of a 1998 vw passat, 4-cylinder, 5-speed manual transmission automobile. the abs brakes warning light came on (february 27, 2005). i consulted with my independent mechanic and he said the abs brakes were necessary in wet or icy weather in emergency situations. the problem did not result in any accident or injury. i took the car to the dealer on march 21, 2005. the dealer performed diagnosis and determined the abs pump needed replacing. the dealer (new century volkswagen in glendale, ca) quoted a price of $3125, parts and labor, to fix. i am unable to repair the car at this time due to the expense. research online and in discussing with independent vw mechanics reveals that this is a very common problem with this model vw. i checked with an independent vw mechanic and he told me that so many people have had this problem that the price of abs used parts is rapidly rising. in investigating this problem please refer to the following website for a remarkable number of similar complaints: http://www.passatworld.com/forums/showthread.php?t=173334&page=1&pp=30&highlight=abs+module . *ak
02/16/2005		2
	1) abs warning light/sounder came on, told by dealer that abs system was out, would need to be replaced for $1800 before any other engine problems could be diagnosed by computer. 2) did not fix this, which led to their excuse that they could not accurately diagnose other issues, but did their best to fix acceleration problems (replaced hoses and plugs) 3) current acceleration problem miraculously diagnosed as some sort of power regulator device w/o mention of fixing the abs system so that computer could get past it 4)electrical problems including moon roof opening and closing at will, door locks opening and closing at will, interior lights not shutting off and alarm going off all by itself (unable to lock doors b/c it sets the alarm) 5) now dealer says that it's a battery problem and resetting everything should fix it all, including the abs light problem. can you say rip-off?*ak
12/20/2004	122550	1	01/04/1998
	1. events: abs light would intermittently go on and off while driving. now the abs light stays on all the time and the brake light now flashes with 3 beeps and stays on. 2. failures: i have no working abs in the car. 3. correction: have been advised by an independent vw repair shop that the abs module is not communicating with the diagnostic computer and must be replaced. this module is a dealer-only part ($2,038). note that this cost is for the part only and does not include labor. i've contacted 3 other independent volkswagen/audi repair shops and they've advised that they've repaired an in ordinate number of these abs systems in volkswagens. one shop indicated he repairs/replaces vw abs at least 4 times a month, which would mean that vw dealers are likely doing a lot more of these repairs, yet there hasn't been any recall effort on vw's part. i've notified vw america customer service of the problem, but they said i would have to absorb the cost of fixing it since a recall notice has not been issued. my car is scheduled for replacement of the abs module on 1/27/05. the mechanic advised that the total cost to replace the abs module will be approximately $2500. jb sc
09/01/2004	65000	3	01/01/2004
	Complaint received via e-mail.the abs light started coming on intermittently. whenever the light is on, the abs do not function. this is a safety hazard and will cause the car to fail inspection. the abs light now stays on constantly. the dealer diagnosed the problem as a bad abs control module (it would not communicate with the diagnostic computer) and stated that the abs pump had to be replaced. the quoted cost of a new abs pump was $2250. *jb
11/26/2003	78000	1	07/17/2003
	Vw passat 1998 has a manufacturing defect. the abs light stays solid and brake light flashes. this can cause serious consequences. the manufacturer has taken no measures to rectify this problem. they have shifted responsibility on the consumer to pay them extra $ 2000.00 to fix their problem. *jb
11/24/2004	75000	1	07/29/1998
	Anti lock brake control unit. *ak
10/06/2004	76	1	10/26/2001
	I owe a 1998 vw passat gls( 77,000 miles). abs and brake light came on a month ago. i contacted vw dealer and they asked me to bring the car in. but before i did that i almost had an accident with that car because of the abs problem. it was raining and i had to brake so the abs turned on. it blocked brakes and steering wheel and the car kept sliding. abs was clearly not working. the car kept sliding for about 30 yards and i almost ran trough the red light and hit another vehicle because i had absolutely no control over the vehicle. when the car finally stopped i've noticed that the car had shut itself down. seven month pregnant wife and my two year old daughter were with me in the car and we almost lost our lives because of this problem. i took the car to the dealer and i was told that the abs module must be replaced and that it would cost me about $2000.00. i did some research on this issue and i found that there is hundreds of people that have this same problem, but apparently vw of america do not want to do anything. this is just one of the websites where you can read about this problem http://www.myvwlemon.com/ubb/forum2/html/000120.html. something must be done because this is clearly a safety issue. please do something because before you hear about dozens of people loosing their lives because of this. thank you, enes skopljak. *jb
10/20/2004	69000	30	05/29/1998
	Earlier this month (10/2004), the abs brake failure warning (light and sound) on our 1998 vw passat gls started coming on sporadically.*ak on oct. 20, i took the car to wheaton service center, a vw-only independent shop. they hooked the unit up to the diaganostic computer and got no signal. they also got not signal when they tried to access to engine computer, indicating that the abs computer has a short (the engine computer worked fine after they disconnected the abs computer.) i confirmed this diagnosis over the phone with ftizgerald vw in frederick, md. i later tested the braking on a wet road -- there was no abs, although the conventional brakes worked fine. the 1998 car, which we have owned since new, has been scrupulously maintained, as the regional vw factory rep can attest (from a drivetrain warranty repair done 5,000 miles ago). the car now has 69,000 miles on it. the wsc mechanics tell me that they see numerous abs failures in late '90s passats, the web seems to confirm this. the widespread, premature failure of abs systems is a significant safety issue. since the repair costs $2,500, many owners will simply disconnect the abs computer to avoid the annoying lights and sounds, and avoid the expensive fix. having become accostomed to abs, how many will adjust their braking accordingly, especially the need to pump the brakes to avoid skidding?
07/13/2004	57000	1	04/07/1998
	Abs system failure on 1998 vw passat. warning lights came on. dealer diagnosed problem as abs unit failure and said repair would cost $2500. search of internet message boards indicates that this an increasingly common problem. *ak
05/17/2004	105000	1	02/05/2003
	At 105,000 miles the abs and brake warning lights began to come on intermittently on my 1998 vw passat. i took it to a vw mechanic who diagnosed as a failed instrument cluster. replaced cluster for $600, didn't resolve brake problem. research indicates the problem to likely be abs pump electronic system (integral to abs pump). the installed part is 8e0614111p, vw prescribes replacing with 8e0614111q (upgraded part). list price for the q part is $2400. complaining because: 1) problem is likely failed electronic components which are sold only integral to mechanical pump, thereby gouging purchasers, 2) research on the internet and discussions with part dealers and service shops indicates that this problem is common and basic to passats and audis; vw should either pay the total cost or make it cheaper to repair. see: http://tech.bentleypublishers.com/thread.jspa?threadid=2447&start=0&tstart=0. *ak
02/01/2004		1	04/01/1998
	Abs warning light illuminated on dash. mr the consumer was told the problem was the abs control module and could be repaired for 1400.00 plus labor sc *jb
03/12/2004		17
	When driving at an undetermined speed abs light appeared on the dashboard. consumer informed the dealer about this issue. however, mechanic was unable to duplicate the problem. *ak
11/01/2001			03/01/2098
	1)trunk light stopped working just past the warranty period, wiring problem, cost to repair $200. 2)abs light flashes continuously, about 1 year now,dealer gets 3 pages of diagnostic error messages. can't determine problem with light but abs is supposedly working. cost: 3days car rental, and $300 out of pocket. 3)front end suspension: crunching noise and bounce. bounce corrected-dealer replaced stablizer bar, $284. noise continues(6 months), dealer can't determine problem. getting worse, afraid front end will crash into ground. 4)timing belt broke, dealer replaced engine at no cost. 5)engine replacement caused problem with radio. radio will not accept code. needs to be replaced. 6)rear driver side window will not go down when indicated, falls down a few minutes later. also, door will not open when unlocked. 7)sometimes the ignition switch will not turn when starting car.*ak
			06/01/1999
	Rear brakes make loud squeaking noise from moment brake pedal is depressed until vehicle comes to a complete stop. dealer has inspected and said brakes/pads are ok. dealer deglazed pads which fixed noice problem for approx 2 weeks and then it returned. problem still not resolved. problem started at 20k, vehicle just had 40k mile service-dealer said brakes ok still. said front brakes will need replacement at next service. i feel dealer is trying to fix problem, but manufacturer hasn't provide dealer with any recommendations on problem resolution. *ak
		1	01/01/1998
	I have been advised that both front brakes require new rotors although pads have not worn through. given the mileage, this seems like a defect. the manufacturer has declined to assist as the vehicle in no longer under warranty.*ak
01/10/1999
	When driving and applying the brakes there are no power assist brakes, and the brake pedal is hard, which isn't stopping the vehicle. consumer has to apply the brakes very hard to stop the vehicle. *ak
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - ANTILOCK - ABS WARNING LIGHT
08/05/1998	94400	4
	My abs light intermittently comes on followed by the brake light flashing> upon researching this on several various forums on the net. this appears to be a commonly defective part on several model years from 98-01. the oldest posting i found was done in 2000 and the vehicle was a 99. from researching this it appears even vw dealers are unable to get correct problem codes on this issue. i saw postings from many owners stating they were told everything from abs modules needing replaced to instrument clusters to wiring issues. it appears no one is absolutely sure what the issue is as some owners after the dealer recommend replacements did not fix the issue. in the short time i looked into this i feel that vw should be well aware of this issue and have taken steps to resolve it. i saw literally years worth of postings a on this issue on bentley publishers website. i can only imagine how many thousands of people have had to pay for things that did not do any research on it. *tr
01/03/2007	81250	1	09/09/2006
	Anti-lock brake failure. abs warning light .*jb
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - ANTILOCK - CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
08/01/2008	115000	1
	Abs module failure. was driving shortly after having front end work done and light when on. this happens intermittently while driving. braking is affected. *tr
02/15/2007	90000	1
	Abs module in operative abs system. *tr
08/10/2006	47000	1	02/28/2005
	Electronic control module for anti-lock brakes failed. anti-lock brakes are non-functioning. *jb
12/27/2004
	Many audi and vw models manufactured starting in the later '90s and ealry '00s, use the bosch 5.3 abs controller, which is prone to catastrophic failure, ostensibly due to defective design. this module controls multiple brake-related functions including the abs which is important for winter driving, but the most critical function of this module is probably the electronic brake force distribution, or ebd. these vehicles are designed such that if the ebd is inoperative, the proportion of hydraulic force applied to the rear brakes during emergency braking is as great as it is during moderate braking effort when there is minimal transfer of vehicle weight to the front wheels. the ebd is supposed to adjust the front/rear braking distribution dynamically according to the measure of the deceleration, so that the rear wheels will not lock up during emergency braking. if this module should fail during emergency braking on dry pavement, the rear wheels could lock up and cause an accident which could easily include fatalities. this is an expensive repair for owners, costing roughly $2000, and many owners have probably put off the repair indefinitely. evidence which can be found through a simple web search, suggests that the problem is widespread, and that if it has not already led to serious accidents, it is only a question of time. this problem is genuine, and vw/audi should be compelled to take immediate corrective action. *jb
01/12/2006		1
	Failed abs unit. *jb
09/18/2006	148000	1
	(1) abs warning/brake light started blinking intermittently. since then, braking became unreliable (long braking distance. the car wobbles on a hard braking). (2) the abs controller module (part #: 8e0 614 111 p) found to be faulty, resulting in no abs. (3) the abs controller is to be sent for a rebuild service.*jb
07/01/2003	40000	1	01/16/2000
	Anti-lock brakes fail. warning light and buzzer come on. dealer said it would cost $2800 to fix. after telling dealer that 99% of abs failures is the abs electronics module, and not the abs pump, dealer offered to replace module for $600. i feel this is a wide spread problem, as this problem is noted by many people on the internet. in addition, it has been reported that people have been disconnecting their warning light to be able to sell their car. this could be a big problem for the next buyer who doesn't know their abs isn't working. *jb
01/04/2006		1	03/26/1998
	Abs controller failure. *nm
05/01/2004	92000	1
	Abs unit failure on my 1998 1.8 turbo passat gls sedan at 92,000 miles. sending unit to be refurbished because vw of america won't replace it under a recall. *jb
06/03/2005	56100	3	01/06/1998
	Dt: while driving on freeway the anti lock brake warning light flashed and then disappeared. consumer took vehicle to the dealership, and was told the abs control module chip failed.*ak
01/15/2005	77993	1	07/08/2004
	I own a 1998 volkswagen passat gls 1.8t, and i have had the abs control module fail. i was driving the car and my abs and brake lights turned on and started to blink. this would happen everytime i would start my car. i had diagnostics run on the car, and found that the control module could not communicate with the cars ecu. i had my local volkswagen dealer replace the abs module. this cost me $850 for the control module, $360 for labor, then tax. i had to pay $1270 for everything to be fixed. i find that this is a common problem with volkswagen passats, and i do not think that the owners should pay for something like this if it is a recurring problem.
11/07/2004	68808		01/16/1998
	Brake warning bells sounded followed by blinking red brake, and solid amber abs light in dashboard instrument cluster. took automobile to dealer for diagnosis. abs module was determined to be defective, and required replacement for anti-lock brake system to work again.ak nm
07/01/2004	143000	1	06/30/1998
	Failure of the abs control unit lead to the failure of the abs system. the part was replaced at a cost of over $2,000.00. *nm
05/28/2003	98000	1
	Abs light blinking constantly on my 98 vw passat for past 19 months. dealer indicates no fault code anunnciated with computer diagnostics. quotes $1300. control unit needed. abs system not functional.*ak
11/01/2004	63832	3	07/24/1998
	While driving at various speeds abs light illuminated. vehicle was taken to the dealer, who informed the consumer that the problem was the abs module pump.*ak
09/17/2004	85800		12/17/1987
	On my 1998 passat with 86,000 miles the abs light goes on intermittently and the abs does not work. the dealer states the problem is the abs module 8e0-614-111-q which will cost $2,036 plus labor of $111. upon research, a large number of other vw owners have the same problem. this causes a safety hazard. *nm
07/01/2004	155000	60	01/28/1998
	Abs and brake warning lights flashing. brakes work but abs may not. dealer quotes $1450 for repair part alone, plus labor. this is a very common problem for these cars and vw refuses to either recall or cover repair cost.*ak
08/25/2004	70000	1	05/10/1998
	Abs controller failed on my 1998 vw passat. the vehicle has only 70k miles on it. this apparently is quite a common failure on the vw/audi vehicles. *jb
06/07/2004	67500	25
	Abs light began blinking along with brake light on dash, took it in to volkswa gen to be diagnosed. they told me the abs control module and pump failed. there is no signal between the control module & pump with the computer in the car. the module is supposed to send back a signal saying everything is fine or telling what the problem is, but in my case, there is no communication at all. the only thing that can be done is to replace the abs control module and that should 'most likely' solve the problem. and the estimate - $1885 - about $1500 for the part and about $300 for the labor - plus tax. vwoa refused to assist with costs, even though i only have 67, 000 miles on the car, and this problem is rampant and there are tons of people in the same situation. not sure what justifies a recall, but if there are a lot of people out there with the same problem, who have paid for a car with abs brakes, why shoudl we have to cough up that kind of money to replace something that is obviously faulty just to get our abs working again?*ak
01/07/2004	52000	1	01/20/2003
	My 1998 vw passat has 57,000 miles on it and a problem with the abs control unit. the abs light stays on steadily and the brake light flashes with an audible four-chime tone. the vw dealer tested and confirmed that i need a new abs control module. the cost of parts and labor is $1900. . vw of america declined to help with this problem. *jb
01/05/2004	93200	1	08/18/2003
	1998 vw passat 20v gls sedan vin: wvwma63b7we226837 abs fault indicated by abs and brake instrument cluster lights flashing and instrument alarm sounding. 1 faults found: 01203 - electrical connection between abs and instrument cluster 03-10 - no signal - intermittent diagnosed as faulty abs control module. safety issue - according to the owner's manual: if abs warning light and brake warning light lit up together, it is possible rear wheels will lock-up early under hard braking. this could cause loss of vehicle control and may be due to the electronic brake pressure distribution not functioning. have your vehicle serviced immediately by an authorized volkswagen dealer or a qualified independent repair shop module in car: 8e0 614 111 p current vw replacement module: 8e0 614 111 q i have called around to at least 6 dealers, list price ranges from $1500 - $1900 for the currently available q module. my local dealer told me they had stock and list price was $1000, but when the part was delivered that price had changed to $1600 list. i surely would not have ordered the part if it i had been quoted that price! part was refused, however according to the parts driver i talked to a year ago (and as recently as this fall) the part was $1000 list, and lately they have been delivering 4 - 5 of them a week to independent shops doing these repairs. from various forums (vwvortex, club b5 passat, audi world, bentley technical web, vag com tech forum) i have learned the failure rates for the 97 - 2000 model year b5 platform cars (audi a4, vw passat) that share the same 8e0 614 111 (b or p) modules have been failing at an alarming rate. in my opinion vwoa needs to issue a safety recall to address the premature abs control module failures in these vehicles. *la
12/08/2003	60700	1	02/08/1998
	The car is a 1998 vw passat 1.8. the car has 61,000 miles. abs/ brake light including the warning chimes turns on intermittently. the alarm turns off after a few minutes and then goes again. my mechanic tested and confirmed that the abs control module is faulty. repair cost is estimated at $1,800. no other car i have owned with abs has ever had this kind of failure. *la
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
		1	06/01/2002
	Consumer states brakes are noisy. dealer replaced front brakes and found rear brake drums were rusty. *tt
		1
	Vehicle experiencing brake problems. nlm
03/03/1999		1	01/01/1998
	Brakes squeak. *cj
03/03/1999		1	01/01/1998
	The brakes squeaked, the dealer filed the brakes and the noise went away, the brakes weren't working, the dealer replaced the brakes and the rotors. *slc
		1
	Vehicle experiencing brake problems. nlm
03/03/1999		1	01/01/1998
	The brakes squeaked, the dealer filed the brakes and the noise went away, the brakes weren't working, the dealer replaced the brakes and the rotors. *slc
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DIFFERENTIAL PROPORTIONAL VALVE
12/27/2004
	Many audi and vw models manufactured starting in the later '90s and ealry '00s, use the bosch 5.3 abs controller, which is prone to catastrophic failure, ostensibly due to defective design. this module controls multiple brake-related functions including the abs which is important for winter driving, but the most critical function of this module is probably the electronic brake force distribution, or ebd. these vehicles are designed such that if the ebd is inoperative, the proportion of hydraulic force applied to the rear brakes during emergency braking is as great as it is during moderate braking effort when there is minimal transfer of vehicle weight to the front wheels. the ebd is supposed to adjust the front/rear braking distribution dynamically according to the measure of the deceleration, so that the rear wheels will not lock up during emergency braking. if this module should fail during emergency braking on dry pavement, the rear wheels could lock up and cause an accident which could easily include fatalities. this is an expensive repair for owners, costing roughly $2000, and many owners have probably put off the repair indefinitely. evidence which can be found through a simple web search, suggests that the problem is widespread, and that if it has not already led to serious accidents, it is only a question of time. this problem is genuine, and vw/audi should be compelled to take immediate corrective action. *jb
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC
04/10/2001		3	03/01/1998
	Consumer stated there was a noise coming from the front wheel, dealer repalced the front pads and rotors, also the brake fluid was changed, consumer complained on another occasion, dealer heard the noise for a few seconds but unable to detect a problem.*jb
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC - PADS
		1
	The consumer took the vehicle to be serviced because the brakes were making noise, the dealer said the brakes were ok, at 22k miles consumer was told that the brake rotors and pads had to be replaced. nlm
12/10/1999		2
	Consumer took vehicle to dealer due to brake light warning on the instrument panel coming on, the dealer informed him that the brakes were ok, later dealer informed consumer that rotors were worn and that the rotors and brake pads needed to be replaced, consumer feels dealer should be responsible for paying for the defective brake rotors and pads. *slc
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC - ROTOR
		1	01/01/1998
	I have been advised that both front brakes require new rotors although pads have not worn through. given the mileage, this seems like a defect. the manufacturer has declined to assist as the vehicle in no longer under warranty.*ak
		1
	The consumer took the vehicle to be serviced because the brakes were making noise, the dealer said the brakes were ok, at 22k miles consumer was told that the brake rotors and pads had to be replaced. nlm
09/18/2000
	Took vehicle to dealer & was informed by mechanic that rack needed to be replaced due to power steering leaking fluid through it. also rotors were replaced due to excessive wear. fuel tank had collapsed & was not accepting any fuel. *ak
08/03/2000		1	01/01/1998
	Brakes weren't working, brake and rotors replaced(rotors extremely thin-very unusual at this stage). *cj
12/10/1999		2
	Consumer took vehicle to dealer due to brake light warning on the instrument panel coming on, the dealer informed him that the brakes were ok, later dealer informed consumer that rotors were worn and that the rotors and brake pads needed to be replaced, consumer feels dealer should be responsible for paying for the defective brake rotors and pads. *slc
			03/01/1998
	Curious if rotor defect is inherent in all vw passats. *ak
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - POWER ASSIST
01/10/1999
	When driving and applying the brakes there are no power assist brakes, and the brake pedal is hard, which isn't stopping the vehicle. consumer has to apply the brakes very hard to stop the vehicle. *ak
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - POWER ASSIST - VACUUM

	Brake booster, intake air screen and tie rod end unable to be repaired under recalls due to lack of parts. nlm (98v-134,99v-131, 99v-248)
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - SWITCHES - BRAKE WARNING
05/20/2004		1000
	Daily driving conditions the abs light comes on with audible warning and the brake light blinks continuously. root problem is the abs electronic module that is malfunctioning. this is a very common problem as much web research has been conducted through online passat forums.