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 21 through 30 of 350.00-
Upscale performace with horrible reliablity - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
By roznstyle - April 9 - 11:24 amPurchased the vehicle brand new in 2/04. Followed the recomended mantenance religiouly. In the years Ive owned the vehicle I was left stranded 4 times and needed to be towed to a garrage. Tow #1 60K miles. Water pump (make of PLASTIC) failed causing the engine to overheat. Tow #2 75K miles. Fuel Pump failure. Tow #3 100K miles. car would not start. Brand new spark plugs were dirty and needed to be cleaned. Simple issue is a major problem when stranded. Tow #4 120K miles. water pump (Aagain!) after inspection, we needed, new water pump, timing belt, tensioners, cam seal, aux fan, main fan bearing, new belts, to the tune of 2K from a reputable 3rd party VW mechanic. Never Again VW!
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Unsatisfactory - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
By D. Melton - March 7 - 10:06 pmI purchased a brand new German automobile with great credentials and reviews in the safety, performance and reliability categories. Ive been dissapointed from about 6 months after my purchase on. Ive had multiple problems and numerous return trips to the dealership. However, after two years they do have a fix for the trunk. They will install new hinges that actually do not require prying open and then slamming the trunk down. Go to dealership and have them order the new hinges for you.
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Sell before warranty ends - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
By joeykert - January 15 - 8:13 pmIn the past month, at my expense, the front axle, water pump and timing belt all needed replacing. The car shakes in idle when stopped, a common problem with this engine from my research, but VW is in denial. The dealership cleaned the throttle body, fuel injectors and replaced engine and transmission mounts at my expense, car still shakes. This is my second and last VW, a car with only 41000 miles shouldnt have so many issues.
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Do not buy Passat - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
By Roman - December 25 - 11:53 pmOnce warranty was over my Passat started to fall apart. In its fifth year I spent over 5,000 on service and maintenance. VW service after recent inspection informed me about 2 additional things that need to be done in the nearest future (additional $2,000). I wont buy Volkswagen again and I recommend you to stay away from Volkswagen
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Just dont do it - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
By Laura - November 9 - 10:00 amI bought this car for the same reason many people buy Volkswagens: They look nice and are fun to drive. Well, they are fun until they start breaking down!! My car has had an array of problems. I would NEVER buy a Volkswagen again. I know lots of friends with Passats and Jettas, they have issues with theirs to. Volkswagens are good up until about 60,000, and then theyre junk. Oh, they do not hold their value well at all either. I will say that this car was fun and roomy in the front. I did feel safe in it, as it is a heavier car. There are other cars out there - do not settle on a Volkswagen.
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Worst car ever - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
By VW mistake - November 4 - 2:00 amI lease my passat..I have had it for 3 years....In & out of the shop too many times...problems w/emmissions & many other where car had to be towed 5 times. Think twice, 3 times before buying or leasing this car.
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Disappointing - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
By Opie - November 4 - 2:00 amIt is a typical VW, it is a wanna-be Audi or Porshe. It has some great features, but is short on design and quality. The metal dents really easily, and the paint is poor. The car has had two recalls already. I love to drive, and this car makes me want to drive less. If you are smaller in stature, it probably will work for you, but forget the tall people.
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What a mistake - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
By vwgoof - October 12 - 2:00 amIve driven Volkswagens since 1982, time to move on! The lease was up on my Golf so I took advantage of a special lease deal on the Passat. MAJOR MISTAKE. Warning lights on the dash signal impending doom and then just reset at random, Dealer says just ignore no big deal. Car cant track a line down the road, wanders off on every bump, joint, and groove(Steering Suspension and/or Tires?), Dealers answer, deflate the tires!! Car is hard to control when it is windy,(I live in a windy state!)car changes lanes before steering inputs have any effect! Dealers answer, see above. Newest fun, gas fumes coming in through vents immediately after start up, to the dealer again! Internet search, LEMON LAW!
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Relatively Good Car - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
By Beth - July 11 - 12:00 pmThe car ran great until 20,000 miles, then for no apparent reason, the back axle bent. Nightmares followed.
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Do Not Buy This Car - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
By Engine is Garbage - June 11 - 9:46 amPurchased this car CPO from a VW dealership. Have had it maintained at dealers, check ups, synthetic oil, etc. The water pump busted on my way to Cincinnati less than a year after I had the car, Ive had numerous problems with the engine that have been covered under warranty... but in less than 2 years this car has left me stranded on the side of the road 3 times waiting for a tow. Most recently the ignition coil went about a month ago and then the same thing happened this morning. Im actually waiting for a tow truck now and as soon as they fix it today Im driving to another dealership to trade it in for a Subaru.
