Overview & Reviews

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.

• Fun to drive, excellent value in GL or GLS trim, roomy interior with upscale feel, outstanding build and materials quality, available all-wheel drive.

• Expensive upper-level models, less rear-seat room than some competitors, some confusing interior controls.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 350.00

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  Test Drive Carefully and Completely - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By FastFred - November 3 - 7:33 pm

  Ive driven the VW for one year and I am unhappy with it. The dashboard instruments cannot be seen in the daylight! AC display panel is a joke, dark and almost illegible. The Monsoon radio on AM cannot be tuned in clearly. The dealer says: Thats typical of VW radios! My cars gas mileage is quite low for a V6. I am averaging 13-15 mpg around town, 20-23 mpg on thehighway. Overall, consider a Honda or a Toyota for the same or less money.

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  would not buy another one - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By hulk - May 13 - 10:00 am

  would not buy another one,problem with computer keys,leather covered material,leather comes off,had to pay 75.00 for two windshild wippers,mind you just the wippers,seems like everything cost you more on this car.

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  Not cost effective - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By Unhappy With Passat - February 27 - 2:00 am

  The running lights have been replaced four times during the first year of ownership. Ive been told by the V.W there is nothing that I can do but continue replacing head lights. The breaks squeak since the first month of purchase. I was told by V.W due to the rotor material the vehicle makes squeaking noices when the vehicle stops.

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  Nice Start, No Finish - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By JohnSmith - February 22 - 10:00 am

  WARNING!!! VW does not like to honor its powertrain warning and will do whatever it can to get out of it. My car has less than 75k (regular servicing), and the oil pump has failed, and the camshaft just went. Each time VW has given me hassle after hassle - not to mention the sheer fact that the engine has failed twice!

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  Another warning light - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By Sharon - October 19 - 2:50 am

  I purchased my passat used last fall. I was really excited to get it. I got a lemon this time. It is in shop about once a month with a warning light on. Already had part of the dash replaced and about 3 software upgrades. Both headlight burned out at the same time. Just turned 50K so the warranty is gone. I am just waiting for the next problem. VW has let me down. I am going back to toyota as soon as I can.

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  Piece of junk! - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By just me - May 8 - 10:00 am

  2004 Volkswagon Passat. Bought used at dealership. Oil blew, coolant blew, destroyed the thermostat. Dealership could not tell me why. They were clueless. Sounds to me like the oil sludge problem but wont openly admit it. Cost 2000 grand to fix. headlights went out. dealership wont change them without charging me 150 becuz they claim you have to pull off the bumper. I will never again buy a Volkswagen!

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  VW - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By kittylala - February 8 - 2:00 am

  This is car is pretty nice however, un reliable, and I found Japanese made to be a better value and beter quality.

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  Still W8ing - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By Gille1 - December 17 - 10:00 am

  Purchased the car as my 7th Passat and 20th VW and was looking forward to a fast and sporty ride. The car is neither. Acceeleration lag from stand still is down right dangerous and then you jump like a frog! Gas mileage is horrendous ( 12 miles in City?). Back brakes warped & replaced at 20K. Tried to sell and realized one dealer offered all remaining 2003 W8s at $8K disocunt! W8ing for a better Audi or Lexus.

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  Sold, thank god! - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By Robert - Atlanta - April 2 - 4:26 pm

  This car is junk. I have been waiting to sell/trade the car so I could write this. Do not buy one unless you like going to the repair shop. Also, since the car breaks frequently, they have taken loaner cars away. Please note that I work on cars and took immaculate care of this vehicle. These items broke due to poor build: Antilock computer system, front emblem fell off (700 miles), heated seats, door lining, radio, 2 rear speakers, brake lights, cv axles, cat. converter, fuel pump, seats wore. Also this car has a timing chain, do not buy around 100K since you will be out 700-1400 $$$$. Buy something else for your own good. Also, be leery of the VW dealers around Atlanta - Scammers!

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  First and last Passat - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
  By benleon - January 25 - 2:00 am

  I like my Passat, but I doubt Ill buy another one. The six cylinder has nice pickup around town, and is fun to drive, but it dies on the highway, especially if you are carrying people. Also, the gas mileage is ridiculous - I get 13 to 14 mpg around town. Little things - like not being able to read the dashboard meters - make me question the engineering. Also, this car - even with front wheel drive - is terrible in snow. And the Passat is expensive for what you get .. my next car is probably the Infiniti G35. I regret buying the Passat instead of the G35 ... both in the same price range.