2000 Volkswagen Passat

Within the relative measure of a family sedan, the Passat is fun to drive, handles nicely, holds you in firm German comfort and performs predictably. Even the occasional quirky touches were more amusing than annoying (go ahead, figure out how to change the wiper delay!). The fact that the tires are unique to this specific car model was perhaps more on the annoying side, but overall, I climbed in and out with a smile.

Except when climbing out at the mechanic's shop. Brakes got replaced frequently, the check engine light simply became interior illumination, and even the window winder fell through (Joe was driving, so I'm not sure the car is to blame, but really...) The transmission is a well-known weak spot (why doesn't VW know?) and mine got replaced at about 70K miles. Eventually I sold the car and you will too, because the frustrations with servicing will mount (oop, can only use VW transmission fluid or it will slip and lurch like a drunk) and you will start to do the math with the mechanic's bills versus a new car payment. Which is a shame, because it really is a sweet car, when it is running right.

Really, a great car when new, but