2004 Volkswagen Jetta Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.42/5 Average
381 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

For 2004, all Jetta models get an updated look, optional telematics and a new and more powerful 1.9-liter TDI engine (GL and GLS models only). The 2.0-liter engine is now PZEV-rated, and the GLX trim is no longer available. Also note that you can no longer get the 1.8T engine in GL trim. Besides that, the GLI sedan sports new 17-inch alloy wheels and the Cold Weather Package items (heated seats and washer nozzles) as standard, while the GLS features a standard Monsoon stereo. The wagons get a revised instrument cluster late in the model year, and the sedans get new metallic trim rings around the gauges.

Pros:
  • Powerful 1.8T and VR6 engines, fuel-efficient TDI power plant, fun to drive, comfortable ride, rich interior materials, loads of standard safety features, solid build quality.
Cons:
  • More expensive than most small sedans and wagons, tight rear-seat legroom, weak base four-cylinder.

User Reviews:

Showing 141 through 150 of 381.00
  • Good car, lots of little problems - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Based on the criteria above, I gave the Jetta 1.8T a good review. Overall, this is a very nice looking and fun car to drive. There are, however, a lot of little things that frustrate me. The check engine light comes on a lot. I read the code, and its a problem with the coolant temp sensor. Not a big deal, but still. The interior rattles a TON. Pretty disappointing for a car of this caliber (read price). The gas mileage is okay. 25-26 mixed, 28-29 hwy. Now in winter its 23mpg. Cost of maintenance is high. The ride is pretty stiff. On smooth roads is like butter. On anything less than smooth, you feel every bump (and hear it via the interior rattles). Not as worry free as I would like.

  • Long Term Happiness - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought this car new in 2004. In the 9.5 years I have owned this car it has bean, overall, fantastic. I have kept up regular service. The major problems I have had are: a sensor, front wheel bearing, rear wheel bearing, the heater blower motor, and a the heater resistors...replaced a few times. The heater repairs I did myself so cost was just the parts. Considering I have had this car this long and have almost 260k on it, this is small potatoes. Overall this has been the most reliable car I have owned. It was not built in Mexico but rather came out of the Wolfsburg plant and that is why, in my opinion it has been such a great car. I have had no engine or tranny probs at all.

  • 3rd VW, 2nd Jetta - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought this 2004 model to replace my 1994 Jetta. Ive decided to keep the 94 too since it only has 290,000 miles on it. The 2004 is a better car, it rides nice, accelerates well and I figure it will make 300,000 miles as well.

  • Excellent! - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I think the TDI Jetta is the most inovative practical design in a long time! Really a wonderful car to own and drive.

  • Great german car - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    The redesigned exterior though very subtle just adds a classic touch to the car and makes it different enough from previous years that you want to get the 2004 and not take advantage of the 2003 clearance sales. I have driven close to 600 miles with the first tank and was blown away by the smoothness of the engine (its hard to tell it is a diesel!)and also impressed by the engines torque... German styling,german drive,german look and feel at a very affordable price.If you want to have the best of both worlds and get a great car with an incredible fuel economy,there is no other choice like it!!!Go get one now!

  • Wouldnt get another VW if you paid me - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have had nothing but problems since I got this car. The trunck released at will on the highway, the car wouldnt come out of park if the a/c was on, the windows fell inside the door twice, the paint peeled off, and the transmission has had problems twice. In addition to this all of the plastic parts inside have either broken or fallen off.

  • ride/drive - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    it was very comfortable, and very relaxfull.

  • Awesome pocket rocket! - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I just got this Jetta, my first car to purchase on my own, I recently graduated from college. I love this car. My girlfriend has a 2000 Golf, and I loved the way VW does the interior on their cars, and the sporty exterior. Although I wanted a 300 series BMW or an Acura TL 04, my current budget couldnt handle the payments. I got a great deal on my Jetta, in Campanella White with the GLS trim, and some dealer custom 17" chrome wheels. Im loving it, since it has that BMWish look to it. If youre thinking about getting one, take a test drive and youll probably drive off on it.

  • Love my Diesel Jetta - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Well, no matter the fuel costs, $1.59/gal(june04) or $2.09/gal(12/04), I get the advertised 38mpg city, but set at cruise, 65mph Hwy, I get 52 mpg. The overall comfort is very good, but the front seat shoulders should curve in more as being 5-4" I dont get full effect of seat comfort. Interior controls are very easy to use w/o affecting driving, rear seat leg room cramped a bit, but manageable. I sometimes get "creaking" noise in doors, but I WD40 the hinges and that stops. LOVE the interior control lighting. Its fun to drive all the time. I look forward to driving it. Handles all curves excellent, even at 45 mph.

  • Love my Jetta (First car) - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This is my first car, I love it! Its a great way to enter. The brakes, the engine, the steering, everything! Its perfect. The fuel efficiency is amazing, I can go 500 miles on one single tank. Ive read lots of problems with this cars. Mine happens to be the Wolfsburg edition and its great! You will not be disappointed, especially with the rising fuel prices, you cant beat it. My car out performs most hybrids, with fuel and power :). The 100 horse power feels like 1000! Its the best, I plan to drive the wheels off

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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