Overview & Reviews

The top-of-the-line W8 model has been discontinued. The GLX loses its standard telematics system. New 16-inch "Rockstar" alloy wheels are standard on the GLS (in place of the former 15s), and new 17-inch "Bistar" alloys are optional on the GLS and GLX.

• Better handling dynamics than most sedans in its class, excellent value in GL or GLS trim, roomy interior with upscale feel, outstanding build and materials quality, available all-wheel drive, unique diesel engine option.

• Upper-level models are expensive compared to Japanese rivals, less rear-seat room and storage than competitors, V6 is down on power.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 166.00

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  Chrome Oxidizing All Over Body - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
  By Debra - March 8 - 2:50 am

  Volkswagen is using junk chrome on its exterior. The chrome all over my car began to oxidize at about 5,000 miles. Dealer said that they had never heard of this problem, although VW had developed a special creme to buff out this problem theyve never heard about. Buffed once, reoxidized, regional manager is telling me I have to take off work to have it buffed out again. Why? Just replace the faulty chrome. Shame on you, Volkswagen! I love the car otherwise, but I am souring on the company after what Ive been through. Initially, they were not willing to do anything. Too bad, so sad. Disappointing gas milage. You can do better, VW...

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  Problems WIth The Passat 1.8T - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
  By p. augusta - January 5 - 11:36 am

  The vehicle has been in and out of the shop 4 times for electrical problems, and now has to have the engine replaced because of a sludge issue. The engine runs very hot so oil sludge in the engine is a common problem for the 1.8T model (Audi or VW). Steer clear of this car! !

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  There is a reason for the short warranty - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
  By Bill - November 7 - 5:20 am

  I purchased 2 used VW prior. No issues with them. Finally got my brand new wagon. Love the performance and style. Hate all the issues. I am selling it and not sure what the replacement will be. I have spent more money out of pocket in 4 years on this car than my 10 year old Ford Taurus... by a lot. If VW extended its warranty greater than 36 months, the company would go under with the extra cost. I have contacted VW of America several times and my complaints fell on deaf ears. If you are reviewing for potentially buying a VW, dont buy one.

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  no longer a vw lifer - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
  By nyc owner - September 8 - 9:40 am

  Had VWs since I was 16 and loved them all. Grew up, made some money, and went upscale. I loved this car a lot when I bought it. Its no tin can, its a solid car (reminded me of a Mercedes) with a smooth ride. So why did they cheap out on the interior with all the plastic? Then there was the overall durability. Seems that the car cant handle its own weight, and the NYC streets killed the tires and axles. Also, the engine strained to get the behemoth moving, and I learned fast that it did not stop on a dime like a Jetta. Then, the problems. Annoying rattle in dash that VW refused to fix after 3rd attempt, Then the cars 4 faulty ignition coils, ea caused separate trips to dealer

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  German quality is gone for good - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
  By sayNOtoVW - August 6 - 2:13 am

  Was fun in the beginning. Now that the sludge problem (well known by VW, but denied - google the internet) has manifested itself the car is only driven when i know someone can come pick me up when it breaks down. After $7000 in engine repairs (all routine maintenance done on schedule by VW dealers) the car is running again but it took three trips back to the dealer to get everything fixed. "Sorry", "out of warranty", "havent seen this problem in the 2005s are just a few of the things said by VW America and dealer. Ill never buy VW and would not recommend to anyone.

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  Poor choice - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
  By jlub - October 24 - 5:23 pm

  Enjoyed the car when first purchased, Great performance and fun to drive. Then the problems started at about 12,500 miles and haven;t stopped. Have spent more than 8,000 in maintenance and repairs with no help in correcting poor reliability. Biggest problems have been replacing 8 coils (even 2 after recall). Engine light has been on for over a year and they can not find the problem. Just spent 500 on electrical issues which are not repaired. Some of the problems: 1) 8 coils replaced. 2) Triptronic transmission doesnt work in manual. Never fixed as it is over $2000 by VW dealer. 3) AC went out, not getting power. 4) Oil light comes on regularly...waiting for the sludge problem. Bad Choice!

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  Disappointed in my Passat - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
  By Bernie - August 31 - 6:10 am

  I cannot wait to squirrel away enough money to replace my car, with a non-VW model. I used to be that person that would defend VW and my car selection, but no more. After three recalls, multiple ignition coils going out, faulty electronics and the bottom panel of my car falling out on the freeway, I am done with this car. Not to mention it is a boring sedan. There is nothing outstanding about this car, aside from my repair bills.

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  Another one with "Oil Sludge" issues... - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
  By lonzom10 - August 7 - 1:10 pm

  Ive owned this car for over 2 years and it is in constant need of repair. The AC has went out twice, the Coils have had to be replaced, the front axles replaced due to the boots cracking and now the infamous "Oil Sludge" problem which VW says they will not cover even though all but 3 oil changes were completed at the dealer and I have provided them copies of the other 3 receipts. After looking online at all the other 05 1.8 turbo owners with the same problem, it would appear that the issue was not resolved from 04 to 05. Needless to say I will never by a VW again. What can we as a group do to address this issue with VW?

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  Everything was great, until... - 2005 Volkswagen Passat
  By Lisa - June 4 - 10:43 am

  I have had this car for 5 years. It was doing great until I hit the 75,000 miles. I drive about 72 miles a day, so I understand that the ware and tear is a lot more then others. I had a warranty up to 100,000 and right when it passed 100,000 the "oil pressure STOP" light went on. According to what I have read, it looks like these models have a sludge problem. It looks like they have been having this problem for most of their passat models. They do have an extended warranty for 99-04, but not 05. Also, they make it hard to cover, because they want EVERY SINGLE piece of documentation of oil change services. Now Im stuck with this car, trying to figure out if its worth fixing or get rid of it