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 11 through 20 of 381.00
  • Just a Terrible Car - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Dont be fooled by all the wonderful words out there on the world wide web about the VW TDI or the VW Jetta. I have had nothing but problems with my 2004 VW Jetta TDI Wagon. It has been in the shop at least 6 times for a multitude of problems ranging from a malfunctioning fuel pump/fuel gauge/instrument cluster to defective seats. It has multiple rattles and squeaks that the dealership cannot fix for some reason. Amazingly enough, it doesnt meet criteria for the lemon law, yet.

  • Low miles, higher maintenance - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Drove it cross country a week after purchase. Noticed excessive wind noise from front door seals. Dealership at destination changed seals, but no improvement in wind noise reduction. Less than 10K miles, and engine rotation sensor broke, again at 13k, again at 18k. Repeated issue till 22k. AC never was NEVER cool as is should be, charged AC, still not cold. AC expansion valve went bad and replaced it at 23k. AC still not cold as it should be. 24k the main AC coolant fan had to be replaced. AC still not cold Both front shocks collapsed at 24k, and needed replacing. Alternator pulley froze up at 24.5k and needed replacing. 25.5k and the engine temperature sensor went bad. It needed replacing.

  • Awesome Jetta Wagon - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have had my 2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL Wagon for year now, I bought it in September of 2004. It has not had any problems, runs great, looks great, and feels like I just bought yesterday.

  • I love my car! - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I havent found one thing that i dont like about my car!

  • An Audi in hiding - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    For those of you looking for a "drivers" small car, look no further. We bought our Jetta Wagon used with 39k on the odometer. It has been trouble free with about 56k miles as I write this. This car is fun to drive, whether around town or on the highway. Not a sports car, the handling is more then adequate for fun and the ride is firm, but not harsh. This car is basically an Audi (shares a lot with the Audi A4), not an Old Beetle. Parts and service can be pricey,especially if you dont do some things yourself. German cars are fussy about being maintained. If you dont MAINTAIN, you will have to FIX. True of all cars, very true of German makes. Keep that in mind and enjoy your Jetta!

  • Love the jetta...... - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Great deal and great car.Love the thing.....

  • best buy for the money in small cars - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    best buy for the money where as other cars charge extra added extras on the jetta they are standard equipment for an example the corrolla le or s modal with the same eqipment ended up beeing $4000 more

  • This car rocks! - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Very roomy and the 1.8T never gets old. I think the VR6 is not worth the price.

  • TDI Performance - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This car gets excellent fuel millage. It gets anywhere between 33 and 35 mpg around town and 45 to 53 mpg on the highway. The best millage comes when driving 55 - 60 mph. This car is fun to drive. It has plenty of power.

  • Costly - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I purchased the car with 13,000 miles. In March 05 At the 50,000 guess what changed the water pump,temp gauge and did the timing belt. Very costly. April 08at 75,000 miles the check engine light came on. The dealership found 2 faulty spark plug wires and the coils were gone.October 08 at 80,000 miles another timing belt, the water pump wasnt working and had two leaks. November 18, 2008 the EPC light came on. The dealership found 3 codes that could of triggered the EPC. The dealership reset the codes cost $97.00. Now November 19, 2008 the EPC light came back on!. Since I had the car this list is totals about $2,500.00 My wife has a 02 passat same problems. Her EPC light at 85,000 miles.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area