Why does my Passat’s check engine light come on when I start it?

It’s usually normal for your check engine light to turn on upon ignition. This is a sign that your vehicle is testing its circuits. The light should turn off in a bit, but come see us if it doesn't.

Why does my Volkswagen engine sound different?

Strange under-the-hood noises can point to problems within your Volkswagen Passat engine. Tapping or knocking could mean you need an oil change. Whistling could mean a belt is misaligned or there's an intake leak. Squealing may be caused by a loose fan belt, and grinding could be a sign that something is wrong with your brakes — not the engine.

What could damage my Volkswagen Passat engine?

Some driving habits are not so great for your engine. These include driving on a near-empty gas tank, revving your engine while the vehicle is in Park, or slamming the gas pedal while the engine is still cold. Protect your engine’s performance and efficiency by distancing yourself from these habits.

Can I put water in my Volkswagen Passat radiator?

Only in emergencies. A 50/50 mix of coolant and water (or a pre-mixed) coolant is recommended. However, if you must keep driving when you're out of coolant, it's better to drive with water in your coolant reservoir than nothing.

What can cause the engine in my Passat to suddenly stop?

There are different reasons your Passat vehicle engine could suddenly stop. You may be looking at a lack of fuel, faulty sensors, issues with the ignition system, engine overheating, electrical problems, or mechanical troubles.

Who fixes Volkswagen Passat engines?

For Volkswagen Passat engine repair, trust your local Firestone Complete Auto Care. You can make an appointment today at any of our thousands of locations across the U.S.

Reliable Repairs for 1996 Volkswagen Passat Engines

Learn about

1996 Volkswagen Passat Trim Options

Select your Volkswagen Passat trim level to learn more about Volkswagen-recommended engine repair. Use the following chart to find information.

L4/1.9L

L4/2.0L

V6/2.8L

1996 Volkswagen Passat Repair

Nothing stays the same forever. Even your Volkswagen Passat's many parts and pieces. When something breaks or fails, we’re ready to help. Select a repair or category to learn more about 1996 Volkswagen Passat services.

We Know Volkswagen Passat Engines

Volkswagen Passat drivers trust that their Passat will take them near and far. That might be why you bought it in the first place. Even so, pieces and parts can break down over time. Sometimes plans go sideways. When they do, you might find yourself searching for 1996 Volkswagen Passat engine repair or replacement parts. That's when it's time to head to Firestone Complete Auto Care. Since 1926, we’ve taken care of 500 million+ cars, so you can rest assured knowing your Volkswagen Passat engine will be in good hands. Schedule an appointment if you're experiencing problems that could require engine repair. Firestone Complete Auto Care offers both trustworthy and affordable engine repairs.

Check Engine Light on 1996 Volkswagen Passat

An illuminated check engine light on your Volkswagen Passat is one of the first signs it's time to 'brake' for engine service. A steady or flashing check engine light could signal a serious issue with your or emission system, and it won’t go away by ignoring it. Potential causes may include a faulty oxygen sensor, damaged spark plug, issues with your catalytic converter, or an engine vacuum leak, to name a few possible causes. Bring your Passat to Firestone Complete Auto Care to get computerized diagnostics and we’ll figure out why that check engine light is giving you grief. Other signs your Volkswagen Passat engine needs some TLC are oil leaks, or a sinking feeling that something’s wrong.

Engine Repairs for Your 1996 Passat

If your 1996 Passat engine needs repairs, our technicians will provide you with a thorough explanation beforehand. We never do any work without your sign-off. If a service can wait, we’ll make sure you know. But if immediate repairs are necessary for your safety, we’ll make sure that's clear, too. We want to provide you with the information you need to make an informed engine repair decision. Choose Firestone Complete Auto Care for Volkswagen Passat engine repairs and you can drive easy knowing that we use Volkswagen-approved parts and fluids — cambelt, valve guide seal, ignition coil, or a different component.

Questions About 1996 Volkswagen Passat Engines

Why does my Passat’s check engine light come on when I start it? It’s usually normal for your check engine light to turn on upon ignition. This is a sign that your vehicle is testing its circuits. The light should turn off in a bit, but come see us if it doesn't.
Why does my Volkswagen engine sound different? Strange under-the-hood noises can point to problems within your Volkswagen Passat engine. Tapping or knocking could mean you need an oil change. Whistling could mean a belt is misaligned or there's an intake leak. Squealing may be caused by a loose fan belt, and grinding could be a sign that something is wrong with your brakes — not the engine.
What could damage my Volkswagen Passat engine? Some driving habits are not so great for your engine. These include driving on a near-empty gas tank, revving your engine while the vehicle is in Park, or slamming the gas pedal while the engine is still cold. Protect your engine’s performance and efficiency by distancing yourself from these habits.
Can I put water in my Volkswagen Passat radiator? Only in emergencies. A 50/50 mix of coolant and water (or a pre-mixed) coolant is recommended. However, if you must keep driving when you're out of coolant, it's better to drive with water in your coolant reservoir than nothing.
What can cause the engine in my Passat to suddenly stop? There are different reasons your Passat vehicle engine could suddenly stop. You may be looking at a lack of fuel, faulty sensors, issues with the ignition system, engine overheating, electrical problems, or mechanical troubles.
Who fixes Volkswagen Passat engines? For Volkswagen Passat engine repair, trust your local Firestone Complete Auto Care. You can make an appointment today at any of our thousands of locations across the U.S.