2004 Volkswagen Golf Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.57/5 Average
54 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Like the Jetta and New Beetle, the Golf gets a revised and more powerful version of the 1.9-liter TDI engine. A Monsoon stereo is now standard on the GLS model and all Golfs get a new fuel cap warning light and seatbelt reminder.

Pros:
  • Long list of standard features, high-quality cabin materials, utility of hatchback design, fuel-efficient TDI engine, fun to drive.
Cons:
  • More expensive than its peers, mediocre performance of base four-cylinder, some controls difficult to use.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 54.00
  • Painfully unreliable - 2004 Volkswagen Golf
    By -

    We liked it all till we had it a week. The weather turned cold. The car had no heat, replaced the computer. Had to go back numerous times to find the problem. Still not good heat. Would not start. Ignition key assembly replaced. Glow plugs quit. Other electrical controls faulty. Car jerks and bucks. Transmission controls were replaced through a complete removal, repair, replace. Still not fixed. Very noisy rubber bushings in the rear were replaced but needs it again. Economy is about 38-40 mpg, not the 65 that was advertised. There are numerous annoying squeaks and rattles in the dash and front doors. VW dealership is trying, and the warranty is still working. Ouch!

  • Love the Handling, hate the problems. - 2004 Volkswagen Golf
    By -

    I have a 2004 Golf GLS, automatic. Since the date of delivery, I have had nothing but problems with the car. It is back at the dealership constantly, and on several occasions, has been back more than one time for the same problem. The car is very comfortable, safe, and I love how it handles, however, it is not reliable, and has a lot of electrical problems. Needed a new drivers side seat bracket, coil in drivers seat had to be repaired, faulty cooling sensor, problem with the alarm sounding after closing the trunk and opening the drivers door, I am on my second cd player, and it is not working properly (got it installed yesterday), problems getting the car out of park, etc.

  • LOVE MY GOLF - 2004 Volkswagen Golf
    By -

    I lOvE mY GoLf. it is fun to drive and if u really want power get the 2004 Jetta VR6 or the GTI (I prefer the Jetta) I have a golf and a jetta and i love both of my cars!

  • Surpasses all competition - 2004 Volkswagen Golf
    By -

    Fun to drive, precise and accurate steering, sound and safe design (4 disc ABS brakes, stability program, airbags as fas as the eye can see) Flexible, you can haul around a ton of stuff, great mileage, more features standard than on any other vehicle (8 speaker sound system w/ radio AND cassette, cruise control, height adjustable seats, 3 full seatbelts and headrest in the back. Though only equipped with 90hp, the car is far from being a lame duck, you get away from a stoplight much easier than say a Chevy Malibu. The stiff suspension keeps it comfortable on long trips and prevents you from getting seasick over potholes.

  • DO NOT BUY - 2004 Volkswagen Golf
    By -

    DO NOT BUY UNLESS YOU REALY LIKE YOUR CAR IN THE SHOP!!

  • A car that feels great to own and drive - 2004 Volkswagen Golf
    By -

    The Golf TDIs high-tech, extremely fuel-efficient engine (with plenty of torque), a great array of standard trim and safety features, and the overall quality of design and build all combine to make this an excellent choice for anyone looking for a compact car thats both fun and economical to drive. With the rear seats down, theres impressive cargo space for a compact car, and even with them up its a comfortable sedan for 4 adults. Plus, you can get all of this AND do the environment a favor by running on biodiesel fuel - either at 100% or blending with petroleum-based diesel in any ratio you choose. I wanted a 4DR hatchback with >40MPG for <$20K, and this car was the best choice!

  • A nice change from a truck. - 2004 Volkswagen Golf
    By -

    Ive only had this car for a few weeks, but I love the mpg I get out of it. I have the 2.0L gas and its not the most powerful, but it gets me all around town and has good acceleration getting on the highway. Perfect for me. I looked at other cars (Toyota Matrix et al) and this Golf had all the saftey features I wanted (airbags and abs 4 wheel) for a really good price.

  • Fergie - 2004 Volkswagen Golf
    By -

    Great car. Better looking than most inexpensive cars. Great in the bad weather. Full economy is 24 even though they say 24-30.

  • DO NOT BUY, VW - very streeful - 2004 Volkswagen Golf
    By -

    I purchased BRAND NEW 04 VW golf and within 10 miles I drove from the dealer ship , i started getting ENGINE PROBLEMS. OUT OF the last 18 DAYS since i bought the car, 15 DAYS car was in SHED. Never expected that buying a brand new car with VW is this STRESSFUL.i filed an official complaint with VW-America, they are dead slow in responding. their Customer service is comparable to the cars engine problems. New car should be problem-free atleast for the first 10 miles. VW buyers, READ as many reviews as possible before you decide on buying this crap.

  • Solid Buy - 2004 Volkswagen Golf
    By -

    Ive had my VW Golf TDI (AT) for over 6 months. Its been everything I hoped for - reliable, fuel efficient, and really fun to drive. I live in Annapols, MD. This car is perfect for city living and highway driving. Small enough to scoot around small historic city streets (nimble handling). Plenty of power (great torque) for highway driving. The hatchback provides nice utility. This Golf is by far the best car Ive ever owned (Ive had a Toyota Celica, Honda Civic, Pontiac Sunbird, Mazda B2000, VW Passat 1.8T, Dodge Durango, and a Jeep Wrangler). Im going to drive this car for many many years.

Volkswagen Golf Reviews By Year:
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