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 331 through 340 of 350.00
  • outstanding value for its class - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Why spend the money on a Audi Quattro when you can have the same thing for less. Good ride, good looks, affordable..

  • SUPER CAR - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    BEST CAR I EVER OWNED. THIS IS MY 4TH VW 2 JETTAS AND 2 PASSATS. IT WONT BE MY LAST. VW BEST FOR SERVICE TOO.

  • Relatively Good Car - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    The car ran great until 20,000 miles, then for no apparent reason, the back axle bent. Nightmares followed.

  • A sedan with performance - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    This is my seventh vw,all I can say is that I really enjoy my vws. The car is great to drive, you can hug corners,quick acc. great when turbo kicks in..a performance sedan.. And dont be afraid to run it, takes rpms up to 5 without any hesitation. Has a great look..(with size 18 tires), great value of a car for what you get.....

  • LEMON, LEMON, LEMON - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Have had the 4Motion clunk since almost the beginning. The dealership purchased from would not even acknowledge there was a problem. Volkswagen of Americas customer care is useless and downright rude to its customers. Finally able to get software update installed after 4 trips to another dealership. Now when at low speeds, barely tap gas and it hesitates and then takes off like a rocket. Not good if idling in traffic, could be a safety concern and cause an accident. Also has extreme wind noise on interstate. VW mgr admitted is prblm with all 2004 passat

  • Do Not Buy This Car - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    Purchased 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.

  • My 2nd Passat - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    The 2004 model is the 2nd Passat that I own. I also owned a 1999. Honestly, Ive had many problems with the 2004. My fuel pump went out, I had problems with the rear brakes, the turn signal went crazy and had to be replaced, and I had to replace my coolant container (dont know the technical name for it). I havent finished paying for the car yet and Ive already put a lot of money into it. This saddens me because my plan was to buy another Passat in a couple of years but this time I think Ill pass. I love these cars because their driving performance is excellent. However, they are not very reliable. The car left me stranded on my way to Albuquerque and cost me $1100 to tow and repair.

  • Worst Car Ever! Avoid! - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    I have a 2001 Passat(1.8T). Ever since I purchased it, I have never stopped sending it the mechanics. The problems so far: 1) Glove box broke 2 days after my purchase; 2) Air condition emit horrible smells two months after I bought it; 3) Vacuum leak; 4) Broken temperature gauge; 5) Malfunctioning headlight connector; 6) CV axile worn out after 2 years; 7) Brakes broke after 2 years; 8) Signal light handle broke when I was driving on highway! I couldnt give signal to cars besides!! ... (out of space) I cant bear it any more. It is only 3 years new. Plus the dealer charges exorbitant repair fees. The small and cheap mechanics my friends referred me to didnt know how to fix it. Avoid!!

  • Great car...so far - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    My wife and I love our Passat. It has been one of our favorite cars since the 98 redesign. My wife drives this car (and I get the minivan). Its big enough that we feel very safe with our 2 little ones in it, yet we still consider it a sports sedan. I worry about long term reliability on VWs. Thats why we are leasing. Nice thing is that the basic warrenty will cover the entire lease.

  • Stay away!!! Has SOOO many issues!!! - 2004 Volkswagen Passat
    By -

    I bought my 2004 Passat GL in 2011 with 91k mi. on it for $7900. In just 3 years Ive spent over $3600 on it not including regular maintenance. Oil sludge, both front axle boots torn, both brake rotors, leaking coolant, new thermostat housing and new thermostat, and many, many other problems!! Currently at 130k miles the timing belt broke. Could cost me $900-$3000+ to fix depending on the damage done to the engine. Its current value wasnt even worth it to fix. I sincerely advise EVERYONE to stay away from this vehicle!!! I personally will NEVER buy a Volkswagen again!! Dont make the mistake I did... DO YOUR RESEARCH!!!

Volkswagen Passat Reviews By Year:
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