Function of turn signals and hazard lights on my 2001 Passat (40,000 miles) has been degrading over time. Both systems are now completely inoperable. VW (800-822-8987) claims they have never heard of this problem, although there is an active VW recall for this problem on 2000-2002 golf, gti and jetta, and the NHTSA representative to whom I spoke has told me there are many reports of this problem on 2001 Passats (but no current recall). Obviously, we will be getting this fixed asap. However, I would request that 1) a recall be initiated and 2) VW provide reimbursement to all owners such as myself who will have paid for this repair out of their pockets. This is a very dangerous problem that is clearly widespread on 2000-2002 VW vehicles of all models.

- Columbia, MD, USA

Failure occurred spontaneously. After turn signal (left or right) was deactivated (whether manually or automatically after completing turn, prominent scratching or "shorting" noise could be heard and vibration felt underneath the flasher switch for varying periods of time. Dealer replaced switch, however, a noise continued from behind the flasher switch at irregular intervals. Dealer said that this was caused by defect in turn signal mechanism in steering column. That repair is pending. Concern is for failure of either the flashers or turn signals and/or electrical short in the system which could lead to other problems. The situation bears similarity to the existing NHTSA campaign id number: 04V584000 involving some of the same components in VW jettas of the same manufacturing year.

- Knoxville, TN, USA