Passat 35i Dryer: Replacement for 3A5, 1996

'I need a new dryer and there's one available on eBay at a good price right now (although it's listed for a Passat manufactured from 2000 onwards). Can I use this dryer in my Passat as well? The coolant is the same, right? It would be great if I could get this sorted out quickly, as the dryer won't be available for much longer.'

Best regards, WarLord.

Hi,
It looks bad.
The part number 3A0 820 191 is compatible with your Passat.
The part number for the 2000 model is either 8A0 820 193 AB or 8A0 820 192, depending on the vehicle identification number.
In the drawings, they also appear different.

Best regards, Andy.

Ugh, I don't want to buy that expensive thing (60 €) from VW. Let's see, maybe I'll find something on eBay. The air conditioning definitely needs to be working when I install the Climatronic. But thanks for the part numbers. How do you find those out?

Best regards, WarLord.

@Warlord
Here's a practical tip: If you haven't already removed the dryer, soak the hoses connected to it with Caramba a few days beforehand. Then, open them very carefully. Especially the thinner hose that leads towards the interior of the car is prone to causing problems when opened, and if you damage it, the €60 for the dryer will be the least of your worries. That particular hose is only available from the dealer, and they charge well over €200 for it.
Best regards,

Dominique.

"@ Warlord, that magical thing with the part numbers is called AKTE or AKTE. One is a supplier catalog, the other is an original VW Audi catalog."