Not specified for typical passenger car use, consult manual for specific ratings if applicable.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (for 1997 model year)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (for 1997 model year)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard on most models, often Bosch anti-lock braking system.
Traction Control:
Optional or standard on higher trims/VR6 models (ASR).
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Driver and passenger airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel front seat belts with pretensioners, rear 3-point seat belts.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD changer. Speaker configurations vary by trim.
Display:
Digital clock and radio display, instrument cluster displays for engine vitals and warnings.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard or optional, as noted in safety section.
Connectivity
Diagnostics Port:
OBD-I connector, typically under the dash or in the engine bay. Requires specific adapters/scan tools for full diagnostic capabilities.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving environment.
Spark Plug Replacement Aba:
Every 30,000 miles (pre-1996), 60,000 miles (post-1996 with improved plugs).
Spark Plug Replacement Vr6:
Every 30,000 miles (using original equipment spec plugs).
Timing Belt Replacement Aba:
Critical: Every 60,000 miles. Failure causes severe engine damage due to interference design.
Timing Belt Replacement Vr6:
Critical: Every 60,000 miles. Failure causes severe engine damage due to interference design.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Spec Aba:
API SJ/SL, ACEA A2/A3, VW 500 00 or 502 00, SAE 5W-40 or 10W-40.
Engine Oil Spec Vr6:
API SJ/SL, ACEA A2/A3, VW 500 00 or 502 00, SAE 5W-40 or 10W-40.
Coolant Spec:
G 11 (blue or green ethylene glycol based coolant), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
G 004 000 M2 (or Pentosin CHF 11S/202).
Known Issues
Common Issue 1:
Timing belt failure (critical maintenance item). Water pump leaks often associated with timing belt service.
Common Issue 2:
Coolant flange leaks (often plastic on ABA, metal on VR6, can be upgraded).
Common Issue 3:
Ignition coil pack failure (VR6, leads to misfires).
Common Issue 4:
Window regulator failures (plastic components prone to wear).
Common Issue 5:
HVAC blower motor resistor failure (loss of fan speeds).
Common Issue 6:
ABS sensor failures, leading to ABS and/or Traction Control light illumination.
Common Issue 7:
Door lock module failures (central locking issues).
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer:
Volkswagen AG
Heritage:
Long history of engineering excellence, known for durable and practical vehicles like the Beetle and Golf.
Model Evolution
Generation:
The B4 generation Passat was a significant redesign from the B3, focusing on improved aerodynamics, refinement, and modern features.
Differences From B3:
Smoother exterior styling, revised interior, updated powertrain options, introduction of VR6 engine in some markets.
Production
Production Years Global:
1993-1997 (B4 platform)
Manufacturing Location:
Mainly Emden, Germany, and Puebla, Mexico for North American market.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The Passat was not typically on the Car and Driver 10 Best list during this period, but was recognized for its refinement and European driving characteristics compared to many American contemporaries.
Ratings
Consumer Reports:
Generally rated average to above average for its class in reliability, with specific praise for ride quality and handling.
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