1 Star Reviews for 2004 Volkswagen Passat

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.38/5 Average
350 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The big news for 2004 is the addition of a 2.0-liter diesel four-cylinder engine to the lineup late in the model year. The 4Motion all-wheel-drive system is a delayed option on 1.8T-equipped GLS models. Also note that the 2.8-liter V6 is no longer available on GLS models. The premium Monsoon stereo and Homelink are now standard on all GLS models, while wood trim has been added to the optional Leather Package. The ESP stability control system is now standard on the GLX. Rounding out the changes are restyled 15- and 16-inch wheels and new side mirrors with integrated turn signals.

Pros:
  • Fun to drive, excellent value in GL or GLS trim, roomy interior with upscale feel, outstanding build and materials quality, available all-wheel drive.
Cons:
  • Expensive upper-level models, less rear-seat room than some competitors, some confusing interior controls.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 350.00
  • stay away very bad CAR and SERVICE also - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    very unreliable car , faulty engine and very bad service from dealer. had to take it in too many times , once 6 times in a row for bad falty engine already shortly buying VW passat. stay away , also very bad service people, unfriedly and they dont keep appoitements . filing complaint with better buisness bureu. will never buy vw again. Buy VW if you want a car that breaks down all the time.

  • VW Stinks! - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    The car seems to be nice at first when you get it but after a while everything needs to be fixed on it. Even the oil change on it is $90. Its fairly new and i have put over 10,000 in repairs into it. Whatever you do DO NOT BUY A VW!!!!!! I also no people who have sold theirs for better cars since they had to go to the dealer every other week. Just to replace the air filter which is custom ordered it 75 you cant by the filter at walmart. I will never own a VW again and i encourage all of you not to even look at one. They might get excellent gas mileage but the money youll save you will spend fixing it. Then all the dealers want to run diagnostics every time which is 75. DONT BUY A VW!!

  • Lemon - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Owning a Passat has been one major headache. The car spent over 40 days in the shop during the first year of ownership. I hope to sell the car before the warranty expires. I will never buy another VW.

  • passat hater - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    I havent even had this car for a year and I hate it! bought it used and I was so happy, Low mileage (47,000) and great looking but it wasnt long before the check engine light came on. Got that fixed now its on again. The enterior is peeling and the knobs are falling off. They must have been on a strict budget building this one. Just looking forward to the day I can trade it in for a toyota!!! And the Premium gas and Oil stinks too.

  • LEMON, LEMON, LEMON - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Have had the 4Motion clunk since almost the beginning. The dealership purchased from would not even acknowledge there was a problem. Volkswagen of Americas customer care is useless and downright rude to its customers. Finally able to get software update installed after 4 trips to another dealership. Now when at low speeds, barely tap gas and it hesitates and then takes off like a rocket. Not good if idling in traffic, could be a safety concern and cause an accident. Also has extreme wind noise on interstate. VW mgr admitted is prblm with all 2004 passat

  • Worst Car Ever! Avoid! - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    I have a 2001 Passat(1.8T). Ever since I purchased it, I have never stopped sending it the mechanics. The problems so far: 1) Glove box broke 2 days after my purchase; 2) Air condition emit horrible smells two months after I bought it; 3) Vacuum leak; 4) Broken temperature gauge; 5) Malfunctioning headlight connector; 6) CV axile worn out after 2 years; 7) Brakes broke after 2 years; 8) Signal light handle broke when I was driving on highway! I couldnt give signal to cars besides!! ... (out of space) I cant bear it any more. It is only 3 years new. Plus the dealer charges exorbitant repair fees. The small and cheap mechanics my friends referred me to didnt know how to fix it. Avoid!!

  • Stay away!!! Has SOOO many issues!!! - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    I bought my 2004 Passat GL in 2011 with 91k mi. on it for $7900. In just 3 years Ive spent over $3600 on it not including regular maintenance. Oil sludge, both front axle boots torn, both brake rotors, leaking coolant, new thermostat housing and new thermostat, and many, many other problems!! Currently at 130k miles the timing belt broke. Could cost me $900-$3000+ to fix depending on the damage done to the engine. Its current value wasnt even worth it to fix. I sincerely advise EVERYONE to stay away from this vehicle!!! I personally will NEVER buy a Volkswagen again!! Dont make the mistake I did... DO YOUR RESEARCH!!!

Volkswagen Passat 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