Used Volkswagen Passat for Sale in Sacramento, CA

This car was purchased used with 170k miles on it as an interim car (that became permanent), so take that into account. Despite some initial problems, the car has been relatively reliable for its age. I've been driving it for almost three years. Comfort, performance, and mileage are acceptable. Maintenance has been a little above average, with electronic problems (some unresolved) at the top of the list. Slightly roomier than the average compact car. Most controls still work, some hard-to access lights have failed and the glove compartment and center console are cheap junk. For self-maintainers, the engine is relatively easy to access and well-designed (1.8L Turbo). Roomy trunk with little facility for tying down objects. Replacement mirror controls blow a fusible link behind the fuse box that is a pain to deal with. Have no control over electric mirrors. The wiring harness has a flaw that means that if you have an aftermarket stereo, most smog shops will refuse to smog your car. Front bumper cover is weak and connection points tend to break. Sunroof tends to open by itself when driving or parked (venting not fully open). After several electrical problems that rendered the vehicle immobile in the first four months, the car has not had a similar problem (except failed coil packs, which admittedly seemed to be original). I got it because it was (seemingly) cheap and had a manual transmission. The all-black interior makes it hard to find things sometimes (it's really, *really* dark in there, it feels like driving a coffin sometimes). Traction a little imperfect but handling is entirely competent for a basic car.

The quality of this car is great, but it is not functional in that the parts for it are either too difficult to find or rather expensive. My husband is a mechanic, and he has struggled to fix the car when it breaks down, and not only that, but he always encounters problems. It has been a nightmare to own and has broken down on us a couple of times. What I do like about it, however, is the design. It is rather sleek and a low maintenance color that we have enjoyed.