Quotes of the Day

In "A Pitch to the Rich" [TIME Global Business, December], Volkswagen asserts that many of the problems its cars have are minor and that the cars perform solidly over the long haul. I purchased a 1999 VW Passat GLS V6 earlier this year. It had about 39,000 miles on it. At the time of purchase, I had the car thoroughly inspected. They found no problems. I have not yet reached 50,000 miles and have already had to replace the guts of a back door due to its locking up; the oil cooler due to oil leaking; the sway-bar linkage on both sides; the power-steering and crankcase hoses; the window regulator; the right/left front axles; and the front brake rotors. I have wasted many hours taking the car to several respected service shops, including the dealer. Anyone want to buy my Passat? It has only "minor" problems.

SCOTT JACKSON
FINANCIAL-SERVICES SPECIALIST
Viera, Fla.