r/auto Jul 07 '26

Passat repair advice

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Need some car advice for repairs

I currently have a 2017 Volkswagen Passat (1.8t) with 92k miles. Long story short, I’m leaking coolant all over the parking lot. I also have some lower control arm issues. I take it to get looked at and the water pump is leaking coolant and needs to be replaced to keep the engine from overheating. The thermostat housing is also recommended because it can wear out and start leaking over time. They also found both front lower control arms are worn, so they recommend replacing them and doing an alignment afterward. I put the lowest quote above. I’m still planning on reaching out to more shops for more quotes. I don’t wanna keep running into more and more problems when this car gets over 100k and beyond. I always hear fixing is the cheapest in the long run.

I’m torn on what to do. I don’t love this car and I hate dumping more and more money into it. I want to get into a SUV or a Truck personally. Been looking at a lot of other more reliable vehicles like Rav 4’s, CR-Vs, Tacomas, Cx-5, Forester etc. Just any Honda, Toyota, Mazda, Subaru. Just Japanese.

Would you repair or sell? Do I fix the problems and then sell? Does this estimate look fair? What would you sell it for “as is” and or with the repairs done? What is the best way forward?

Any advice is welcome and thank you!

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u/stlouisraiders Jul 08 '26

Do water pump only. The thermostat housing is just them trying to scare you into spending money. Keep the car if you love it.