2004 Volkswagen Passat Research & Reviews

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 231 through 240 of 350.00
  • So far, its been a blast - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    I was looking for safety features, comfort, and handling in the low $20s range, and this car stood out. A year later, Im really pleased with it. Handles amazingly well, even in bad weather (the ESP helps too); great seats, so my back never gets tired; interior is quiet and pleasant to be in (I have a 120-mile round-trip commute, so it matters); more than enough power for my needs; lots of nice design touches that I associate with more expensive cars. 31-34 MPG on hway. No oil consumption at all. Dealer service has been reliable, honest and fair. In short: I have no buyers remorse.

  • Great Car needs a few improvements - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Owned my Passat for a year and a half. Id wait for the style change coming in 2005. Need to have a the immobilizer chip in the door. My car was broken into and the alarm didnt go off. Only goes off if the window is broken. A professional can break ineasily. Parts are expensive and you must wait to get them from Germany. Broken lock costs more to fix than what was stolen out of the vehicle. Drive by wire causes a slight hesitation when you step on the pedal while computer is thinking. Brake dust makes the brakes prone to squeaking requiring freqent cleaning.

  • You need to know what you are getting into - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    I think a lot of people buy a VW are unaware that maintenance and adherence to manufacturer recommendations are KEY to keeping a VW on the road. Ive owned my 2004 passast for 8 years and it still looks brand new after over 111K miles. A VW is not a honda where you put gas in it and change the oil every so often. you need to pay attention to using mid grade or higher fuel EVERY time. Synthetic oil, EVERY time. New Plugs every 40K per the manual, and on and on and on. YES there is a lot more in owning a VW than your run of the mill car but if you treat it right it will last for a long time. If you can handle a meticulous maintenance schedule then buy a VW but if you cant DO NOT BUY!!!!

  • Yes to 4motion - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    I previously owned a 2001 FWD New Passat GLS Wagon 1.8T for 3 yrs. It was a great car. Last July I thought I would try the GLS 4motion sedan. Ive only logged 4400 miles, but I really love this car. You cant get a better value for the price. I feel like Im driving a luxury car. I get tons of comments on the exterior and the interior. I cant wait to see how the 4motion handles an Iowa winter. Im confident it will perform just fine.

  • 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.

  • Fun car - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Excellent vehicle. Best Ive ever driven.

  • 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.

  • Very good for the age and mileage - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    I had never owned a VW, but I have been very impressed. The heated seats have been recalled, but it is summer right now. So not worried about it. Wish fuel was better. But tranny, body style, tires, interior are all great. The owner did a very good job in maintaining it. Very solid when doors are shut and the safety features are great. I love that it has side curtain air bags.

  • 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.

Volkswagen Passat Reviews By Year:
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