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First of all, I would like to express my gratitude for being selected B5 of the month.  Some of you know that this is my second Passat.  Originally, I had a sky blue 99 but it was a lemon.  The multi-function switch on the car had failed three times within a year.  I got an even trade with no fees for a new 00 Passat in February 2000.  Everyone I knew kept telling me to not go with another VW because of the problems I had with the first one.  The hunt begun with test driving other cars.  At the time, it was between the Accord and Passat.  There is something about the Passat that grabs me.  I just love everything about the Passat, and I thought that I needed to give it another chance.  Also, all my friends have Hondas and Acuras.  I like being different.  I like the fact that I can go somewhere knowing that not too many people out there have what I have. So I made the decision on a 2000 Indigo Blue Passat.  The mod bug hit me quick.  I started with clear corners, tinted windows, a Kamei grill, and rims.  Then came the system, suspension, chip, dash kit, and so on.  Every paycheck I got, I spent it on a mod for the car.   

It has taken me almost four years to get it to where it is now.  And I know most of you kept hearing the same things from people. Save your money for other things.  I listened and did save money, for modding that is.  I am really happy that I’ve gotten this far without any major problems.  Except for that I got into an accident back in January and didn’t have it for 2 months.  I feared that it wouldn’t drive the same when I got it back.  They had replaced all kinds of things.  The ride now feels a lot better than it did before the accident.    

I’ve learned all about the Passat from everyone here on the forum.  I thank everyone that has helped me with all my questions.  I would like to really thank Jamie-Jarovw, Charlie-charliemirkle, Lelo-Leloz for all of our little 3 to 4 deep gtg’s.  Hopefully we get some more B5ers in the Hampton Roads area.   

P.S. A BIG THANK YOU to everyone!!!  And also a big THANK YOU to Thanasi for starting such a great forum. 

Rico Jimenez / PanaSSat24

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