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 61 through 70 of 381.00
  • Outstanding! - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I used to drive a piece of crap Oldsmobile Alero...and well you can probably guess why they are no longer in business. I will never buy another American car at least for awhile. I listened to a friends advice to get a VW (she drives the Golf and loves it) and what an excellent choice I made. The car looks and drives like a dream car. It is sleek and very modern looking. It is excellent on gas and drives well on the highways. I love it when peoples heads turn when they see my Jetta!

  • Jetta Review - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I enjoy driving my Jetta. The gas mileage is great, and the car is fun. The downside is the very small backseat and the super slow pickup.

  • The car for fun or reliability - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This is a great car for travel or for just a quick run to the store. It is fun to drive and a lot cheaper than most cars.

  • Great car... when it works - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    A very fun car to drive, with great mileage and design--but expensive and time consuming to maintain once its out of warranty. We made the mistake of buying one at 80,000 miles. In the first 18 months we owned it, it was literally in the shop more often than not. Most of the problems werent that major, but there were many, many problems and the parts were expensive (and VW sent wrong/broken parts every single time). In 2.5 years it depreciated about $7500 and we spent thousands in repairs, but only got to drive about 20,000 miles. Also, lots of buzzing/creaking inside the car, and exterior cosmetic parts fall off way too easily.

  • Worst car ever purchased-dangerous car. - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This new 2004 jetta with less than 300 miles failed completely.In the middle of driving-i lost all power -lights- power steering-engine bucked-finally stalled-scared me to death-will seek to give this car back to the dealership tommorrow-Really disappointed in the car-If i was in traffic on a busy highway -it could have been disasterous.

  • Still having more problems - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This is an update from my review from 6 months ago. Well, I fixed the problem with the last check engine light and things were good for a few months. Then, my temperature gauge started working sporadically, sometimes not at all. Finally after a month of this the car threw a check engine light. I had the codes (plural) read, and I am now having a problem with the exhaust (probably 02 sensor), and the cooling system (probably thermostat). I bought the car with 38k miles on it, and Im now up to 53k miles. Problems so far: airbag replaced, 3 check engine lights, temp gauge not working, exterior "chrome" trim falling off, less than 16k miles put on. Needless to say, Im getting rid of it soon!!

  • dont buy this car - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    in the shop 4 times w/in 1st 6 mo for transmission problem, rough shifting - its an automatic. svc dept unwilling or unable to resolve problems. poor customer svc. had my car 5 days & i had to call THEM each day to find out if it was ready. on road trip, couldnt get car out of park & EPC light on, had to call 4 dealers before one would fit us in. latch on center arm rest storage broke, gas cap cord broke. cup holders in bad location in front of air vents & over control panel. condensate drips all over radio & a/c controls.

  • Fun to drive - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Having gone over the years through Volvo, Mercedes, Oldsmobile, Toyota and many different models VW, from a 56 beetle to a Vanagon camper, I am back having fun driving in my 04 TDI. In spite of having the odd expense that needs fixing (are there any cars that do not??) this car is an absolute joy to be in. The seats (mine is the "Sport" edition)are firm and comfy, and the acceleration and general performance not to mention the excellent fuel economy are yet hard to beat in a combined package as it is. Great headroom too, in spite of the sun/moonroof. I just love it!

  • Love My Jetta - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This is my third Volkswagon Jetta and my first turbo. The Jetta is fun to drive with great performance and humph when you jump on the gas. I have been tracking MPG for the last 30k miles most of which is city miles commuting 55 miles round trip each day and I am averaging about 28 MPG. Some of the interior components are a little loose and rattle slightly sometimes. However, the leather interior is comfortable for the short trips or the long drives. Recommended the Jetta to my brother-in- law and he loves it as well. You will not find another car with the features, horsepower, and style without spending 10-15k more.

  • Brief Review - 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Execellent car. Ive modded my car to my liking and it has not cost too much. Also, there are group of people who own VWs that you can meet with in your local area and learn more about your car and how to modify it.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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