If you are nearing the 70-80k mile threshold, it would be a good idea to check the status of the Timing Belt on your VW Passat. The Timing Belt is located on the right side of the engine facing the antifreeze coolant tank. It upper part of the main cover has a removable plastic cover. It is fastened in place by a plastic screw in the upper right corner. You can easily access the Timing Belt compartment by removing this plastic cover and inspect the condition of the timing belt. You should look for tiny cracks, missing teeth, dust in the compartment from deterioration of the belt, etc. Inspect the belt's play by twisting it, if you can turn it more than half way around, it may not be as tense as it should be. Regardless, the safest way to ensure that your Passat's Timing Belt does not break on you or shred while driving is by replacing it according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Repairs can be extremely costly otherwise.
