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 41 through 50 of 381.00
  • What a car - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Wow this car rocks! Its loaded with everything a car enthusiast might have thought to change on a production car: theres nothing left to change! The RECARO seats are as good looking as comfortable, the 18 ins BBS stick to the road and the 1.8T is a great compromise between MPG on highway and performance when you need it. It makes heads turn more than the eclipse GT I traded-in!

  • jetta could be betta - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    do not like the lack of power to accelerate,honda civics,dodge neons and other cars constantly out accerate me and are always on my rear.1st gear is too low. center console rubs my right leg. had many problems with a/c making noise, after three times in the dealer still not fixed. bought used with only 8,000 miles on it. uses oil, must add 1qt per month, plus if battery dies, you must tow it to vw to fix. you cannot change it yourself. computer will lose memory, and must be reprogrammed by dearler. a $40 charge. not to mention the tow, and battery, oh yeah, and the labor.

  • Although I loved my Jetta... - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    The look and handle of this car (when its actually working properly) is great! I loved driving it and thought that it got very good gas mileage. Bought the car used with 26k on it and at 55k the water pump broke under warranty, replaced the driver side window (fell thru the door) the driver side rear view mirror (started falling off). All this was under warranty. Afterward the timing belt, alternator, battery, and fuel pump went out all before 84k! Also lost the CD player and AC converter has been problematic as well.

  • What a great Auto!!! - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    What a great car...For the last twenty years I have owned nothing but Mercedes, and one Subaru Outback bought this year that I quickly got rid of (what a piece of junk)and replaced it with this Jetta. Only 1,000 miles on it and all is functioning well. It is so fun to drive and I think they are made better than the MEBE I was thinking of buying.

  • Best Car!!! - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I just traded in my 2004 Jetta GLS TDI. This was a great car. I have no complaints. I just wish the interior was a little more upgraded. I am sad to see her go.

  • Mexican German Quality - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I had been hearing about years how Volkswagens were well built, had incredible fuel mileage, etc, so I decided to try it out myself. After the twins came along, we decided it was time for a little larger car, so we bought a 2004 Jetta GLS TDI. I simply cannot believe how cheap this car is to run, we get over 1100 kilometres on a tank of combined city and highway driving. That alone offsets the high price of the car and the oil changes. Dont let other reviews change your mind about Volkswagens, they truly are made for drivers.

  • Good Car - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I purchased my Jetta with 6,000 miles. It now has 170,000. I did have to replace the water pump at 80,000. I replaced the Catalytic Coverter (warranty) at 100,000. Coolant temp sensor at 130,000. I have had some driver side tail light issues too. Overall, when I add up all Ive spent on repairs, this is one of the most dependable cars I have ever owned. The only complaint is the seats are too hard. Reading some of the reviews makes me think I am lucky. Sorry to those of you who were disappointed.

  • Great small car - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This car is a pleasure to drive! I never have had such a fun experience driving this vehicle, its great for long trips and grocery store visits. This is durable and reliable, its reponds quickly and effectively

  • unreliable and overpriced - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Except fpr great milage, the car is cramped, especially in the back, very expensive when compared to other makes with gas engine, very expensive to maintain and mechanically unreliable. Had trounle with whell bearing, glow plugs, trunk struts, rear brakes. Oil change and filter are ridiculously expensive. Apholstery is a lint magnet. The saving in gas does not justify the extra costs in breakdown and routine maintenance.

  • Fun Car - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    The pros of my 2007 Jetta GLS TDI include excellent fuel mileage, reliability, and excellent handling for its size. The cons are VWs terrible dealer service and a few rattles here and there.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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