4 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 51 through 60 of 350.00
  • vw passat wagon - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Great combo of a family car and sedan.

  • puny issues - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Passat Wagon with 4 MOTION- Quiet, powerful, and very comfy.Power seat acting up after 2 weeks, a couple of bubbles in the dash vinyl, and the thud of the downshift into 1st at stops the only complaints – wish I didnt have to deal with it; the dealer tells me as I sat in the car to drive it off the lot that they would need to reprogram the computer on first servicing. Now, I can sleep at night.

  • Nice Car - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    This tastefully designed car is built on a stretched Audi A4 platform and utilizes A4 & A6 underpinnings. The interior is seriously lacking in storage space & the Monsoon stereo doesnt have strong bass, but interior quality is first class. Likewise, the exterior build quality is as good as it gets. The turbo 4 is both strong and weak depending on when the boost kicks in. Utilizing this engine to its best advantage takes practice. The driving dynamics are where this car excels as it feels taught, solid, and connected to the road. However, the brake pedal feels a tad mushy. Overall the car offers more panache than its competitors and represents a good value.

  • Fun to drive, unreliable - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    This was my first new car and I instantly fell in love ... until numerous electrical problems left me stranded several times with dead batteries. At 20,000 miles I had to replace the computer, radiator, and transmission! At 25,000 miles I had a wheel bearing go out. At 40,000 my spark plugs were completely shot, to the point that my car wouldnt start. All of this despite completing all suggested maintenance and generally taking good care of the car. Im car shopping now because I cant afford to keep up with this kind of maintenance once my warranty is up, but I know Ill miss a lot of the features.

  • Fast Fun - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    The W8 is one smooth engine. The 6spd has a revised final drive ratio, and this wagon accelerates crisply. VW says it goes 0-60 in 5.9 and I have no reason to doubt it. This is a smooth and confortable cruiser. Be careful, and check the speedo often because Ive often looked down to find Im nearing the century mark. The best part is the law sees just another Passat wagon.

  • Passat Wagon GLS - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    All around best new vehicle purchased. Very satisfied. Makes driving in traffic less stressfull. A good solid ride and feel. No question best options for the price.

  • Dont Buy One - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Too many problems---prone to engine failure& electrical problems--I had to replace 2 front axels all 4 coil packs (got stranded twice after the warrenty expired). Complained to VW. They sent me a recall on coil Packs 2 years later. I had thrown out receipts & already gotten rid of car because I didnt know what was going to go bad next. Repair bills are very costly at the dealership. VW is a car I will never buy again. I now own a Nissan Rogue.

  • Will not buy another VW any time soon - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    My wife and I love the styling and comfort of the car, but have been extremely disappointed with the massive number of electrical component problems on our Passat. In my family, VW always had a reputation for quality, at least as long as I can remember. However, this car has not lived up to the VW rep. The day after we purchased the car, the fuel gauge sensor failed. Since then its been an uphill climb. The remote trunk opener failed, a break sensor failed that caused the ABS and Airbags to disable - another service call. Heated seats burned through the leather on the drivers side and actually caused 1st degree burns on my wifes leg <-- This resulted in a recall later. Etc., etc., etc

  • Love this car but more power please - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Outstanding ride for the price, great handling luxurious interior

  • marandas review - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    i love my .v.w. its so fun to drive and the price is so afordable and me my husband and 3 kids fit so thats what i call my type of car thanks toyota

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