Used 2004 Volkswagen Jetta Consumer Reviews
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Love this car.. BUT!
Alexander Lester, 12/26/2015
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
30 of 30 people found this review helpful
I bought my 04 Jetta gls 1.8t used with 92k miles on it. Test driving the car was AWESOME! It was fast, steering was very responsive, and the leather interior and front seats were very comfy! There is almost NO ROOM in the back seat.. good luck fitting anybody of above average height or weight back there. The day after purchase I got my first CEL... Failed ignition coil. Immediately went back to the dealership where after a little haggling they replaced it for free. Three days later, ANOTHER CEL!! ANOTHER IGNITION COIL.. After contacting the dealership again they told me the vehicle had an open recall on it's coils.. they replaced all four coils and threw in a car wash.. Now running like an absolute champ and I feel like a champ knowing the headaches are behind me.. for now! If you are interested in this car, make sure it has been properly maintained and has had all of it's recalls taken care of. If it has.. BUY IT!!
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Fun to drive!
Danny Wilson, 05/04/2016
updated 05/07/2018
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
29 of 31 people found this review helpful
I bought this car new from the VW dealership in 2004. I drove it for 120,000 miles and then gave it to my college aged son who has put another 130,000 miles on it. I loved the car and he still loves the car. The car has always been quick and it still runs just as well now with over 250k miles as it did when I drove it off the lot new. We have always used Pennzoil full synthetic oil and have changed it at about 7-9k intervals. At around 200k we changed the timing belt. This has been a really good car. I keep telling my son to put back some $$ for another car as this one is getting some miles on it. I've been telling him that for 3 years now. He doesn't want to trade it, it just is too good of a car, still.
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Really Fun To Drive
MikeR, 03/01/2016
updated 03/08/2017
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
30 of 33 people found this review helpful
Bought this used with about 160k miles about two years ago as a gas saver / daily driver. I was honestly looking for a used Honda Civic / Acura Integra but against my better judgment and the fact that it is almost impossible to find a used (1999-2006) Honda Civic, Integra, RSX that hasn't been abused and molested, a couple VW enthusiast friends talked me into buying an Mk4 1.8t Jetta with a 5 speed manual Trans. It wasn't without distress, I've had German cars in the past and it has never been a good experience. But, with a lot of research and reading, browsing and talking I came to this conclusion: The 2004-2005 AWD 1.8 turbo with the 5/6 speed manual Trans. and a couple of the original equipment parts changed out makes for a Very Solid Vehicle! So.. After a couple of months searching for the perfect set up on a 04-05 GLS / GLI Jetta, I bought a 2004 GLS and went to work immediately. I changed; The Timing Belt, water pump (Metal turbines), cam sensor, fuel pump and filter, Vacuum lines, Coolant Flush with the correct Coolant fill... and lots more. And now, I have a very dependable, very reliable, fast and Extremely Fun to Drive Mk4. This is one car I think I will hold onto, Its rare that you find a car like this, one that you cant wait to get into... I used to own a 98 Integra GSR, I loved that car, I ended up selling it and buying a 02 Mercedes C230 kompressor (Complete Junk) that GSR was one of those cars and I regretted selling it from day one. But not this time, I will keep and drive this Jetta till the Wheels fall off. Of course, there are those issues a lot of people write about on here, and it is absolutely true, the Arm rest is flimsy, Glove box latch is cheap, Window switches, Radio switches fall off, Head liner is cheap and will slowly fall But all of this is no more than a $20-$40 fix, nothing you cant find on ebay or amazon. It will have nothing to do with whether my car starts in the morning or if its going to drive off from the stop light. This has been an Incredible Car for me.
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Best Car I've ever owned
vgpr, 05/08/2014
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
27 of 30 people found this review helpful
Been a JDM enthusiast all my life Been in the Automotive repair business 20 years. Then VW won me over I bought this car used with 78k miles on it. Today it has 200k. Its been a commuter vehicle for over 6 years the wtr pmp/belt done at 100k was replaced. Their weakness. The gear was plastic. Replaced with metal one. Besides that its been normal maintenance. Best front wheel drive in the snow up in the Cascades. Best A/C down in Tx where it is now. Grips the road better than my Benz C230 at a quarter of the Price and is the quietest car I've owned even today its quieter than my other newer cars. I just gave the car to my Sis and its still going strong. If find clean then get it...
Great First Car/Commuter
kellymiller, 01/07/2015
updated 07/08/2017
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
21 of 23 people found this review helpful
My parents got me my 2004 Jetta when I was 18. The the car got me through four years of college and is still going strong. Got it in 2010 with 48K miles, five years later it's at 140K and still going strong. I've had no mechanical problems with the car and with a 40 minute commute this was all I could ask for. The car was not perfect by any means (see below) but for a commuter looking for decent MPG, mechanical reliability, and a "cute" look, the Jetta is a great choice.
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Nicknamed my battle tank.
Scott, 12/13/2015
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5A)
25 of 28 people found this review helpful
I bought my '04 Jetta TDI as a commuter car and to keep the miles off my F250. Purchased it with 136,000 off Craigslist from original owner who had documentation of all routine maintenance from dealership in Milwaukee. Since purchase I'm currently at 222,000 miles. Since my purchase I've had some minor issues. Heater blower motor. Did the work myself with YouTube. Took a half hour and I believe $30. Front wheel bearing a few thousand miles ago. Awesome local mechanic did the bearing and full brake job and a pesty new thermostat for $400. Approx 500 miles ago I blew an intercooler hose connection putting the car into limp mode. I brought the car to Jim's Bug Center in Waukesha. For $250 he replaced the hose along with a few other worn hoses he located and a pulley bearing that would squeak when turning at slow speeds. The doozy was I opted for the dreaded timing belt replacement which was $750. Car drives almost as good as my wife's 2012 Jetta TDI still. Needless to say I'm a happy TDI owner.
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Mechanically reliable, but that's all
hgates, 09/10/2012
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
I have owned this for 8 years (purchased new). Mechanically, it is fairly reliable. Save a water pump there have been no issues other than normal wear and tear items. The engine seems solid, although underpowered and noisy. The transmission is not very responsive, especially switching from R to D. The rest of the car is complete junk. Everything falls off. The center hub cap on the alloys, the chrome trim on the doors, the fabric on the interior doors, the speaker grills, the headliner is falling down, the center console broke apart, the engine splash guard, the plastic lower grill inserts, etc. Also, all the rubber coating on everything peels and looks horrible after a few years.
VW Jetta are Junk
lchilders, 08/09/2010
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
11 of 12 people found this review helpful
I bought this car brand new in March of 2004 after I lost my 01 honda civic. When I first drove the Jetta I fell in love with all the gadgets, blue light gauges and the comfort of the car itself. But when I bought the car immediately the nightmare began, first a week after I bought the car the bulb went out in the dash below the radio, then my gear shift locked up , my battery went dead after 3 1/2 years of ownership, I had to replace the bulbs in my rear and headlights more than 4 times, my water pump and tachometer needed replacing, my driver side window have twice come off track, armrest is broken, steering wheel is coming apart. 6 years of owning this junk as been a real nightmare.
wagon werks
rusty33, 10/10/2003
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
11 of 12 people found this review helpful
This vehicle can be summed up in two words- fuel mileage. Nothing in it's class even comes close. If one is looking for rubber burning performance, I suggest a look somewhere else. On the highway, this car delivers with a quiet, communicative ride. Interior room is adequate, but six-footers need not apply for a position in the back seat. Build quality is what we have come to expect from VW. No tinny doors on this one. The leather cleans up nicely after a good day at the beach. Overall, we are very satisfied with this current model and would recommend the experience to those looking for a stylish ride, adequate get up and go, and exceptional fuel economy.
SPORT WAGON WITH MPG
A J FICCARDI, 12/11/2003
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
the 1.8 turbo packs a delightful punch while returning 31 miles per gallon. The car handles wonderfully. The best additional feature is the huge cargo area. The interior materials are completely top notch as well. Every time i drive it, I enjoy it more. Everything on the car works better than expected.
Excellent car for what it is
darksim905, 03/24/2014
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
9 of 10 people found this review helpful
I've owned this car for a solid 10 years & have had minimal issues. After 10 years, every car will start falling apart & showing it's issues. That being said my ''major'' issues that I have had are below. The car runs great if you take care of it & maintain it. I'm not sure what everyone else does with their vehicle, but I love my Jetta & will buy another as a project car once I manage to run this into the ground. 110k miles & going strong.
Pick something else, not VW
Time to change, 02/09/2010
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I'm a lifelong bug driver. My husband got a TDI Jetta wagon and it has been a nightmare. The engine gummed up, blamed on diesel fuel 1000, the front heated seat burned through the leather, the driver's window fell into the door, the leather wore very poorly, the back window has mysteriously broken 3 times with high deductible has been a fortune. It's like a Christmas tree with a light on all the time. Time to dump it and head to Honda. Truly sad, we like the styling but hey, it has to leave the driveway.
Pretty good
2004 Jetta, 09/05/2019
updated 01/19/2023
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Bought at 125k, immediately had to replace the catalytic converter and exhaust system. After that, car did well for its age, minus a few minor annoyances. Check engine light was on and off constantly for no rhyme or reason and it went through a quart of oil every 1000-1500 miles, meaning a lot of checking. Glovebox latch broke but was an easy fix. MPG was 28 at best but usually around 22-24 so not very efficient for a car of its size. Nonetheless, I liked it, probably not ideal for someone who drives a ton but for me it was fine.
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Great small car
Pawita, 07/30/2009
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
This car is a pleasure to drive! I never have had such a fun experience driving this vehicle, it's great for long trips and grocery store visits. This is durable and reliable, its reponds quickly and effectively
Long Term Happiness
tdiguy3, 08/17/2013
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5A)
11 of 13 people found this review helpful
I bought this car new in 2004. In the 9.5 years I have owned this car it has bean, overall, fantastic. I have kept up regular service. The major problems I have had are: a sensor, front wheel bearing, rear wheel bearing, the heater blower motor, and a the heater resistors...replaced a few times. The heater repairs I did myself so cost was just the parts. Considering I have had this car this long and have almost 260k on it, this is small potatoes. Overall this has been the most reliable car I have owned. It was not built in Mexico but rather came out of the Wolfsburg plant and that is why, in my opinion it has been such a great car. I have had no engine or tranny probs at all.
2004 Jetta GLI
Wai, 05/08/2005
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLI VR6 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 6M)
15 of 19 people found this review helpful
Nice low profile tire & wheel help the steering response, though Goodyear RSA tire is not that good in dry/wet traction. Braking distance is kind of long due to small discs brake. ESP coupled with ASR standard in this car helped me in one emergency turn into a ramp off I-95 (driving too fast to pass one vehicle just before exit the ramp). A little disappointed with the color (silver) and date of manufacture (2004 model but date of manufacture is June 2003) but have no choice since this new vehicle is the leftover. Overall satisfied with this vehicle.
I LOVE MY JETTA!!
bandgeek19, 01/22/2012
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I got my 2004 VW Jetta used after losing my 96 Honda civic in a tragic accident. I love everything about my Jetta. I live in IA so the heated seats are a really nice feature to have. I feel super safe in it because its heavy, and has every air bag in every place you need them to be. I haven't had any big problems with it and its super fun to drive. Its a great car for liability and I wouldn't trade it. I used to love hondas, thats all I ever owned. But after driving my Jetta, I really have a liking to Volkswagens! People say they're expensive to fix but I repaired two things on it and found someone to do it cheap. Just look around for the right person! If you live in Iowa, go to Bensons
GLI 1.8T
Edgar Bravo, 11/06/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I used to be a proud Honda owner until I feasted my eyes on this piece of German engineering. Absolutely beautiful to look at, my GLI is extremely comfortable and fun to drive. Its interior design is like no other car I had previously experienced; it's a drfferent kind of "sturdy" quality. The way the car is built is similar only to other German automobiles like BMW or Audi. I'm sold on Volkswagen quality and I definetely recommend everyone test drive one. You'll love it!
Great little car, just don't do what I did.....
cheeriosquirts, 04/12/2014
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I bought this car is 2007 with 30k miles on it, as of right now I am at 115k. I've been a bad VW owner and haven't done the scheduled maintenance like I should, in fact I haven't changed the plugs, timing belt or the pads. That being said with the abuse I have given it (which I suggest you don't do) this car has continued to run like a champ. I do have the oil changed regularly but other than that I have been lazy. Right now I have it in for all the scheduled maintenance that I have failed to do, not because it broke but rather I feel badly about not treating this car right. All you other folks that have had serious issues I'm sorry you didn't get my car, otherwise you would be very happy!
Go get one!
SEANGO18, 04/07/2009
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Bought the car w / 85000 miles on it, and have loved it ever since. Only problem has been an ignition coil that went out. (coil #2) Pays off to do your own work on these, and buy the Bentley manual. If you have a laptop computer and the VAGCOM software, you're set! These cars can get you in trouble if you treat them like a car from Japan, so be careful. If you want a car to get you from point A to point B without any joy, get a Toyota or Honda. You want to have some fun and be in a very safe car, get one of these. Follow the Maint. schedule, and change that oil every 3-4K with full synthetic, you'll love this car.........just as I do.
Love the Car but Not perfect
dlancaster, 05/23/2011
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
8 of 10 people found this review helpful
Fun to drive and love the fuel efficiency. Still get about 45 MPG and about 550 to 600 mi range. Suspected potential problems when I bought it so purchased extensive 100k warrantly and was money well spent. Was looking specifically for a high MPG desiel for business travel. Engine died about 40k due to main electrical panel, several O2 sensors, coolant getting into exhaust due to some gasket leaking. Check engine light has been on since 95k but not an issue as far as I know. All covered under warranty. So far no signficant problems after 100k. 125k on it now. Leaks (drips) a little bit of engine oil, armrest console latch broken but otherwise in great shape. Would take it anywhere!
Lemon
unhappy Jetta owner , 07/29/2010
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
I bought a new 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. Within the year I brought it back three times expressing my concern regarding the transmission. They told me that's the way it drives. Brought it back a few more times they told me nothing is wrong. Brought is t back again and they wouldn't even document it and said that's just the way the German cars drive. 11 months after the warranty is up they were able to find a the problem with the transmission but it now will coast me 1,500 or more to fix. Anyone experiencing this type of problem should contact the National Highway and traffic department if enough people are having a problem maybe they will do something about it.
TDI Torque
Jedi TDI, 03/01/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This is my 4th VW, 1st Diesel. The Diesel torque is great, it allows me to pass 10MPG SUVs with ease, smiling all the way of course. The car is well built (0 problems so far), responsive, and fun to drive. The fact that it returns greta MPG and low maintenence are pluses. Yes, the oil changes are expensive, but there is little other maintenence required, no Spark Plugs, coils, wires, etc. Would buy/recommend TDI to anyone who wants high low end torque, great MPG and low maintenence. Of course, there is that Diesel clatter at idle, but that is music to my ears. The TDI engine is very quiet at speed, due to the low revs at highway speed.
1.8t = Solid Car
George S, 06/29/2008
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Put on about 50,000 miles, with a decent amount of reliability issues (windows dropping into door twice, check engine lights, leaking sunroof, failed ignition coil requiring tow, among others). With the turbocharged engine, I'm going to make sure I religiously change the oil every 3k miles no matter what...can't afford to put money into the car now that I'm off the 4-year/50k mile warranty. Otherwise, a great car overall. Not fast, but quick - and it can be made quite fast with basic mods, if one should so choose. Amazingly refined interior build quality, classy exterior looks. Has its rattles, but not a big deal. Fairly soft ride, though a bit of lean in turns as a result.
Fun, Thrifty, Reliable
dbenhur, 05/18/2006
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I live in the hilly contryside of the Oregon coast and my TDI Jetta is a pleasure to own and drive. It is reliable and gets 45-48 mpg on my daily 90 mile commute. It has plenty of pick up and low-end torque and handles great through hills and in wet and light snow. I have never had a problem with it in two years and 50,000 miles of ownership.
2004 GLI VR6
Debbie, 07/31/2007
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLI VR6 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 6M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
The GLI VR6 is very comfortable. My car is loaded, leather and all and is so much fun to drive. The 6sp manual shift is very smooth and has great acceleration. It's a pretty peppy car for a 200 hp. I've owned several BMWs (540, a 3 BMW 330) and I would say the fun factor is close to a Bimmer but at 1/3 the cost. Only drawback is the gas mileage is so-so for a 6sp. I was expecting to get about 28-33 mpg but I avg around 25 mpg. My 330i (6sp) avg around 28 so I was expecting the VW to be equal if not better.
I'm in Love with my TDI
yamsTDi, 03/23/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I've had the car for a little over 2 weeks now and I absolutely love it. The drive is smooth, mileage is great and the turbo gives great performance. Most people think that you need to sit and wait for glow plugs for a couple minutes, that the TDI is loud, and that they stink. ALL NOT TRUE!The interior is great; very comforting. At night the dash glows with the red-blue combination. It looks great! Also, a great resource for TDI information (besides edmunds.com) is tdiclub.com. Check it out and the car. You'll love it!
Is Great When in Working Order...
Adrienne, 11/15/2016
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
6 of 8 people found this review helpful
But it took me too much to keep it in working order. I've mine for two years, and I've put 26,000 miles on it - most of it highway/commute. I've continually had to put an average of $2,000 in mid-range repairs per year of ownership, not counting the $1,200 of work the dealer had to do within the first month of ownership to keep it running. New vac line, new headlights, new bearings, new struts, new fans, air intake valve - off the top of my head. Now it needs a new heater core right as it's getting cold out and I have to trade it in. I'm getting a Honda cause that's what I can afford to keep up with. ** On the other hand, this car has a lot of pep. When I had it running well, the acceleration, power and speed were all there. I can still get it going quite well on the highway. The sound system is still very nice, the seats and seat warmer (driver side) are still comfortable, I can see really well out of it and the mileage isn't terrible (24 mpg from what I tracked). It'd be a great car if i would just keep running and for cheaper.
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Great car... when it works
Steve, 02/12/2010
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
A very fun car to drive, with great mileage and design--but expensive and time consuming to maintain once it's out of warranty. We made the mistake of buying one at 80,000 miles. In the first 18 months we owned it, it was literally in the shop more often than not. Most of the problems weren't that major, but there were many, many problems and the parts were expensive (and VW sent wrong/broken parts every single time). In 2.5 years it depreciated about $7500 and we spent thousands in repairs, but only got to drive about 20,000 miles. Also, lots of buzzing/creaking inside the car, and exterior cosmetic parts fall off way too easily.
Nice way to enter the driving world :)
VWfan93, 06/05/2009
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
I'm a sixteen year old, and recently got my Volkswagen jetta, tdi, wolfsberg edition. This car is soooo Nice, I love it. The handling, the power, the diesel, the seats, everything! You name it my car, has it. I have loved this cars sense they came out and I'm so glad I got one. Sure, it has it's down falls. One being when I slow down the steering gets harder. But, as I go faster it's sooo easy, which is better :). I love the diesel engine getting about 45-50, I'm pretty happy. I could not ask for a better car, can't wait for 200k :)
2004 VW Jetta 2.0 - 5 Speed Manual
roman_empire, 04/21/2013
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
5 of 7 people found this review helpful
I bout my Jetta in 2007 as a project with front end damage. When I was considering this car I was told that they have many problems and I should not bother. I went and bought it any ways. It had 59,xxx miles on it when it came to me. Today, April 20, 2013, it has 130,xxx miles. In general it is a very reliable car. Through out the history I have had to replace the water pump 2 time and a third time when the timing belt was changed. I have been changing the oil about every 3,000 miles. I traveled to Eastern WA about 4 times from Seattle. One trip I took to California a little over 1,500 miles round trip. I usually get about 28 miles/per gallon with about even mix of city+freeway commuting.
EXCELLENT
D.BROWN, 06/03/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
GREAT FOR THE FUEL MILAGE. WIHT TDI WE ARE UP TO ALMOST 42 MPG
Our first Diesel
Newlyweds, 07/20/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
We recently moved out of the city and were looking to reduce our monthly gas bill. We test drove a Jetta TDI and were immedieatly impressed with how solid the car was. The interior was well appointed and the ride comfortable. The mileage was what sold us ulimately!
So far, So good
Reno to CA driver, 02/18/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I've had the car for about two months so far, so good. I have to cover Northern California and Northern Nevada with round trips in the 800 mile range. So far averaging 40-42 mpg with the automatic and good driver ride comfort. With the cost of gasoline going over $2.00 per gallon, I glad to have a diesel. The Monsoon audio is the best I've heard from a factory install.
Lemon lemon lemon
Fed up with VW, 06/28/2010
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have had this car for less than a year, 2 weeks after purchase had to replace (2) O2 sensors, 1 MAF, and car ran good for about 1 month, check engine light AGAIN and EPC light cont. to go on and off, car lags and almost stalls, engine revs up and down. back in shop, 1700 dollars for a TPS sensor, and throttle adaptation,Thermastat sensor. 2 days later, car overheated, back into VW, this time the water pump went bad, another 300 dollars. not to mention 4 recalls fixed. 4 weeks later engine light on again, car stalls, wont hold idle, transmission shifts rough and jerks. machine pulled bad Valve on engine, did i mention my jetta only has 62,000 miles! 3 weeks in the shop, still no fix.
Just bought one
Doty, 12/23/2003
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
The new Jetta is a great car. I am very pleased. I really enjoy the smooth ride and it is seems exceptionally roomy considering how little it actually is compared to other cars of it's class. It is well designed inside and out. It's great design doesn't stop under the hood. It is very user friendly and clearly distinguishes what the average owner needs to check and what the average owner needs to leave alone.
Although I loved my Jetta...
Colorado Driver, 07/23/2010
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
The look and handle of this car (when it's actually working properly) is great! I loved driving it and thought that it got very good gas mileage. Bought the car used with 26k on it and at 55k the water pump broke under warranty, replaced the driver side window (fell thru the door) the driver side rear view mirror (started falling off). All this was under warranty. Afterward the timing belt, alternator, battery, and fuel pump went out all before 84k! Also lost the CD player and AC converter has been problematic as well.
Jetta.. Worse car I have ever owned!!!
AlbertoSuarez, 04/10/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I hate this car. It has been nothing but trouble and VW has the worst customer service. The alternator shut off the first month i had it. The bumper feel off. The windows broke. It started making funny noises. its just endless problems. The engine light always turns on along with every other light. I have brought it to the mechanic about 5-7 times already. I have had the car for only 3 months!!! ALLOT of people warned me about jettas..allot and The car was so popular and looked so nice i ignored all the bad things they were telling me . And now i'm stuck with a crappy car and i cannot get rid of it. I would not wish this upon anyone
Best car nowadays!
Nadia, 06/18/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Since I bought the Jetta, I have been very happy with it. The drive is fun and fast, the handling is excellent, and the diesel noise is not bad at all.
Best Buy!!
avidfan4, 08/12/2009
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
My husband and I traded in a 1996 Honda Accord for this car and I cannot think of a single complaint. It has a very smooth ride, gets excellent gas millage, and ours has so many wonderful features. We haven't had to any maintenance besides oil changes. It's braking system can handle the slippery winter roads like a pro. It handles extremely well, I would be completely comfortable racing this car in a NASCAR setting. VW's are worth the money you spend for them, I don't think I will be getting another car until my kids go to college...and I don't even have kids yet!
2004 Jetta GLI VR6 "Pocket Rocket"
txbillsfan, 07/31/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLI VR6 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 6M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I call it my "Pocket Rocket" because it's the smallest car I have ever owned and one of the fastest. It's fun to drive, comfortable, well built, and not too hard on the eyes. The chrome moldings and the alloy wheels really dress it up. It corners like a dream with almost no roll and the 6 speed is the easiest manual tranny I have ever used. Like the commercial says, "Drive it you'll get it."
2004 Jetta 1.9L. TDI Diesel
W.J. Herrington, 05/07/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Great value for the selling price. Averaging 35 mpg in city and 45 mpg on the highway. More than enough power,superior handling, build quality, comfortable, recommend the leather seating package. Dealers can be difficult to negotiate with since they are selling everyone they can get. I have this Jetta 645 miles on a single tank (14.5 gallons) of diesel fuel.
BEATS THE TOYOTA PRIUS HANDS DOWN
STARWARS TDI, 08/28/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
AFTER FINDING OUT THE REPLACEMENT HYBIRD BATTERY FOR THE PRIUS WAS $2900 NOT INCL TAX AND INSTALLATION, I CHECKED ONT THE HONDA CIVIC (JUNK) AND THE VW JETTA TDI. THE TDI GETS BETTER ACTUAL MILEAGE THAN THE PRIUS ON A CROSS COUNTRY RUN ACCORDING TO CONSUMER REPORT. MUCH ROOMER THAN THE HONDA AND SOUNDS SOLID. AIR BAGS WERE AN EXPENSIVE OPTION WITH PRIUS! ALOT QUITER AND SMOTHER THAN MY FIRST DIESEL RABBIT IN 78. QUALITY OF WORKMANSHIP FAR EXCEED TOYOTA AND HONDA! GETTING 45.8 MPG MIXTURE OF CITY AND INTERSTATE DRIVING. DEALER WAS ABLE TO GET LAST GLS IN FLA FOR ME WITHIN 1 WEEK!
jetta could be betta
bluehammer66, 06/02/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
do not like the lack of power to accelerate,honda civics,dodge neons and other cars constantly out accerate me and are always on my rear.1st gear is too low. center console rubs my right leg. had many problems with a/c making noise, after three times in the dealer still not fixed. bought used with only 8,000 miles on it. uses oil, must add 1qt per month, plus if battery dies, you must tow it to vw to fix. you cannot change it yourself. computer will lose memory, and must be reprogrammed by dearler. a $40 charge. not to mention the tow, and battery, oh yeah, and the labor.
I'll Only Buy VW
luckylindy03, 10/28/2009
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
this is the second jetta i have owned and i have to say that it is by far the best one. I read the bad reviews and the good reviews and it seems like there are a fair amount of lemons out there. Thank GOD i didn't get one, but i have to say that you really can't beat German Engineering. I will never buy another car that isn't a VW. Everything about the car is a blast. The exterior of the car is great and i get looks everywhere i go. The interior is great too with the brushed aluminum and recaro seats (which can get a little weary after a long trip).
VW Jetta TDI
ghostrider8, 10/03/2011
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
The VWs that were built in Germany,rather than in Mexico were much better quality.I have seen a decline in the overall quality & reliability, also the VW dealers like their cars service has declined.The Jetta TDI is a small compact car, it is a very safe car,but service on the engine can be very costly.Fuel Economy is excellent & I would recommend a Turbo Diesel anyday over a Hybrid.Diesels are proven engines that can take 300k-500k miles.The A/C does not cool very well & it takes a long time to heat in the cabin in cold weather.Technology is shared between the German Car Co.,which is good,they are safe,& reliable,but also be prepared they have high service cost.
Love and hate this car
majorgeek21, 07/07/2012
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought this car about 15 months ago and unfortunately it was one of the Jettas that was built in Mexico...so far in this year I've replaced the compressor ($620) the Temp compressor ($220) the compressor again which was under warranty, the timing belt and water pump ($650) and most recently Coolant fan ($260) not to mention the transmission is at the very start of going out. Its fun to drive and I'm sure the ones built in Germany are great but the ones built in Mexico have HORRIBLE reliability and now I'm trying to get rid of the POS. its eating my money in gas too! It doesn't get as good of gas mileage as it should...If you want one make SURE it was built in Germany!!!
All around awesome.
illimk4, 07/19/2011
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
2 of 4 people found this review helpful
When going for a different vehicle I was searching for something stock turbocharged that had potential as far as tuning goes. Originally I set out to find an srt-4 but found a 1.8T GLI first. I'm glad I decided to purchase that instead. The car is fun to drive and fairly quick stock, but with apr stage 1 software It definitely kicks it up a notch. I love my VW and I doubt I will ever drive anything else. They are well built and very reliable. The only downfall is VW vehicles are expensive to maintain. Other than that the car is well worth what I paid for it.
Fun to drive, great interior.
sims158, 02/09/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I should mention that the reliability rating is only based a month's worth of driving. I love the interior of this car and the feel of the car when driving. It's actually fun to drive in the snow, and the ABS is most useful. The sound system is great, I just wish it had a little more leg room in the back. O'well, I'll always have all the room I want. A good choice for any one that's looking for quality, comfort, and safety.
Fun to drive
nappo, 12/05/2009
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Having gone over the years through Volvo, Mercedes, Oldsmobile, Toyota and many different models VW, from a 56 beetle to a Vanagon camper, I am back having fun driving in my 04 TDI. In spite of having the odd expense that needs fixing (are there any car's that do not??) this car is an absolute joy to be in. The seats (mine is the "Sport" edition)are firm and comfy, and the acceleration and general performance not to mention the excellent fuel economy are yet hard to beat in a combined package as it is. Great headroom too, in spite of the sun/moonroof. I just love it!
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