I was able to order a solenoid for my 1985 Jetta at my local Advance Auto Parts, so I suspect you won't have too much trouble with a 1997 Passat. I could also have gotten a Bosch unit from my local imported auto parts store, but it would have taken them several days longer to get it than Advance so I went with another manufacturer. Are your sure its the solenoid, not the gear hanging up on the flywheel?