Used 2004 Volkswagen Jetta Wagon Consumer Reviews
Used Jetta for sale
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
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...
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.
2004 Volkswagen Jetta for sale near you
Showing 3 of 10 listings
- GLS SedanMSRP: $5,995827 mi away
- GLS TDI Diesel SedanMSRP: $3,4951,143 mi away
- GLS SedanMSRP: $6,0001,166 mi away
See all 10 listings
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
Almost perfectly reliable for 93K miles
Bart , 12/15/2007
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Total repairs include one throttle body (under warranty), broken clips on power window during a winter freeze (fixed for free by a dealer), and brake pads/rotors. Rear brakes were at 92K miles, fronts at 80k. That's it. Another example of buying at the end of a model run for best reliability? This has been a perfect 'extra' family car in terms of reliability, economy (27-30 mpg) and practicality. With good snows and stability control, it handles New England snow very well. Performance is modest with the 2.0 liter and automatic, but fine on the hiwy. Handling is serious understeer, but it is a predictable car to drive and I don't dread switching from my A4 quattro when the occasion arises.
An Audi in hiding
ajl, 01/03/2009
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
For those of you looking for a "drivers" small car, look no further. We bought our Jetta Wagon used with 39k on the odometer. It has been trouble free with about 56k miles as I write this. This car is fun to drive, whether around town or on the highway. Not a sports car, the handling is more then adequate for fun and the ride is firm, but not harsh. This car is basically an Audi (shares a lot with the Audi A4), not an Old Beetle. Parts and service can be pricey,especially if you don't do some things yourself. German cars are fussy about being maintained. If you don't MAINTAIN, you will have to FIX. True of all cars, very true of German makes. Keep that in mind and enjoy your Jetta!
second time around
stephen walker, 12/02/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My first vehicle was a VW Jetta 4 door and the problem list was endless. I just purchased a 2004 Jetta Wagon after doing a little reseach and I must say what a difference. The engine is better, the convenience package is better and wow is it fast!
OH NO!!!
Jonathan38, 10/17/2003
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My Jetta only has 368 miles on it and (already) the power windows, the map lights and the power locks stopped working! I read the reviews about the 2002 models and the horror stories about the windows falling into the doors never to return. I figured by now the manufacturer would have its &^%$ together. Come on VW...Stop drinking on the assembly line!!!
Jetta wagon 1.8T GLS 5M
jhilton14, 12/23/2003
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I love my Jetta. It's a blast to drive, it gets good mileage, and its cargo area is pretty big. So far (knock on wood) in about 7300 miles, I haven't had any problems with the car at all. I would highly recommend this wagon to anyone who needs a wagon, but still likes to drive.
Noisy Sunroof
Mary Ann F, 01/29/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Have had nothing but headaches with the sunroof. When it is very cold or there is a strong sun on it for an hour or so, the sunroof rattles so much you can't even hear the radio. They have tried to fix it five times and it still makes a racket.
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.
Excellent Wagon for Anyone
dragondad, 01/07/2005
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Have owned several VW's. Upgraded from a 2003 Golf GL to the Jetta GLS 2.0 4A Wagon. First impressions are great. Tight German factory-built auto with much tighter feel than the Brazillian-built Golf. It is quieter and more comfortable (some due to the GLS vs. GL interior) than a Golf. Road manners are great and the gas mileage is very good for a 4cyl. automatic. Recommend this to anyone as a totally practical automobile. The features and quality justify the price, which can be negotiated to very acceptable levels. The GLS TDI Tiptronic version would be the ultimate in a small wagon.
The car for fun or reliability
ashley, 10/23/2003
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a great car for travel or for just a quick run to the store. It is fun to drive and a lot cheaper than most cars.
sweet ride
Brian Thompson, 01/21/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Drove the 1.8T Beetle for the last four years and loved the ride. The Jetta powerplant feels just like it. Plenty of power from the 1.8T and better handling than the Beetle make this a much better ride. The interior styling is beautiful.
Wolf in Sheep's Clothing
ironjasper, 01/26/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
With a 2 year old son, and a big dog, I needed a wagon, and I'm very glad I decided on the Jetta. My car has 8000 miles on it, and NO problems what so ever (knock on wood)... There's lots of room in the cargo area, and the car's fun to drive. Plus it gets 31 mpg on the highway. NO regrets.
Driving again!
Flo02, 02/02/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I really fell like driving again in that car.
Awesome Jetta Wagon
Eshwar.S, 01/07/2006
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had my 2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL Wagon for year now, I bought it in September of 2004. It has not had any problems, runs great, looks great, and feels like I just bought yesterday.
new car a blast!
Eben, 02/11/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Having owned a Suv and Subura wagon, its really fun to own a car that really "zips" around .The Jetta is very solid and well made. The Monsoon stereo and the lighted dash make you feel your driving a more expensive car.I added a Thule ski rack and go on many small New England roads with no problems. Great car!
Couldn't be happier!
Shaah, 02/29/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Owned a Beetle...too small for me, husband, and 6 month old son. Traded and got the Jetta... LOVE IT!! Just enough room, my son and family love it!
My VW rules
rosspgerard, 03/09/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
my new vw jetta has a nice european look and feel to it drives good for its price range to.
I love this car!!!
tsmith7499, 03/12/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
So I have only had it for 48 hours, but this car is a must have! The build quality is excellent. It is a car that is easy on the pocket, but not embarassing to own. Everyone I know who has a Jetta (or owned one in the past) feels this same way. The instrument panel is easy to se and see. The storage space is incredible. Nice power for a 4-cylinder.
VW Jet
mark1980, 03/24/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Good car that looks great! The car drives like an expensive German car but cost half the price. The 5-seed manual transmition is a must it gives you the extra proformance punch. Steering is responsive a little understeer is noticable while cornering at high speeds. Enough power to make a pass in 5th gear and 4th will over through most anything.
My Jettta
LadyDior72, 04/10/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My jetta is a fun drive! The most reliable car I have ever had! It's cute, I love the blue interior lights, and I can even take it off-roading!
OIL CONSUMER
Amandarbaker, 04/11/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This vehicle requires a lot of oil. Remember to check the oil frequently. Also when your battery dies they are more expenseive than a normal battery so be prepared. Oh and the breaks, yeah good luck, only the Volkswagon dealtership sells them. In the long run this car will cost a lot of money.
Nice combo of performance and comfort
thebassmohn, 04/17/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It's a really nice ride. It's typical European firm but comfortable. Engine is strong. It runs so easy to 85 and 90 miles per hour you don't notice how fast you're going. Nice handling. Leather seats, firm, sporty, and very comfortable. Tranny isn't silky smooth...first gear spins the tires on demand. Traction control is very nice and so is the antilock brakes...Back seat a little cramped but not important for me. Really nice sounding stereo. Getting 23+ in city and 28+ MPG on highway going 75.
Best car ever.
Tec2you, 04/21/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This one makes people rethink spending all there money on a 3 series! The sound system is awesome. Many safety features, and the best warranty I've seen.
ride/drive
caroline , 05/10/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
it was very comfortable, and very relaxfull.
Handles well and has a sporty look
Jhen Chambers, 05/06/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This vehicle is fun to drive and handles the road well, great car for the money. Would recomend this car for a comute and for a young adult looking for something that is reliable and good looking, and not a gas gussler.
awesome car to drive
njjettalover, 05/14/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
this is my first car here as well my first VW. I got a great deal and with all the fully loaded features the cost was less than Civic EX / Corolla S (i know that there are lot of red faces now that i have compared jetta to civic / corolla). The car is excellent to handle especially during curves / ramps (you can easily push the car to 15 mph more than the specified speed at ramps). Transmission is a bit rough in the first 8000 miles but then it really loosens up. Reverse gear is initially the most unco-operating part!
Jetta GLS 1.8t
George S, 05/13/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Car is all-around solid. Great interior design with blue and red instrumentation, comfortable seats, simple layout. Performs well, especially fond of acceleration. A sedan, yes, but don't count on fitting large people in the back seat unless the driver and front passenger are each 5'3". Tiptronic is cool but slow.
It is my 3-d vw , so - do not buy VW
3vw, 06/02/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It is my 3-d VW. It means I like VW style and I loved their quality. Not any more. The quality became worst and service is a nightmare. I had an experience with 4 dealerships in CT. The same problem with service and the worst part is when I call VW of Noth America for help - they told me that they cannot help me and they have NO CONTROL of their dealers at all! Result of tryin to have a service at Valenti Motors, CT : in a two weeks small problem with my radio was not fixed plus complete disrespect of my personal time and VW image.
Solid all the way around
Ricardo775, 05/28/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great craftsmanship. Fantasic road manners. Good power. Tight, tight tight. Great price. Wonderful car.
jetta wagon tdi
cenflroofing, 06/11/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
great wagon fun to drive diesel engine has more pick up that gas engine
I love my Jetta
BeeMyBabi, 07/06/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my 3rd Jetta and I am an avid fan. It comfortably fits my family of 3 and this car is mainly used for commuting. Great fuel economy. I would purchase another again. Outstanding that most upgraded features in other cars comes standard with this VW such as air, upgraded stereo, power windows/locks, and alarm. Handles very well and pick up is great on the manual.
LOVE IT!
Robb K, 07/13/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I really enjoy driving my Jetta. Also, the sales associate who helped me with this purchase was great and should be commended!
2004 Jetta 1.8 Wagan
Patricia Flaherty, 09/06/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have only had this vehicle for two months but I love it. Very easy to drive,pickup is outstanding. ABS standard breaking is also very good. Cargo space is also outstanding. Overall, I think this car is an outstanding bargin for safety, good cargo space and fun to drive. Not to many family wagons are also fun to drive but the Jetta 1.8 Wagon fits that bill as well for in my case under 20,000
Audi's Little Brother
Wagons...Hoooo!, 09/22/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My wife and I have been looking at the Jetta Wagon for some time. I really wanted the TDI, however, California is run by eco-crazed politicians who do not permit the sale of any TDI version of VW. In any event, we settled (lucky for us) for the 1.8T. This is the same engine in the Audi A4 but tuned down for marketing purposes. We also opted for the Sport and Winter packages which make for a great ride even on cold mornings. The leather seats are very nice and firm (which happens to be my preference). I will switch to synthetic oil after the first interval to help the warmer running turbo engine last longer. We love this car to death.
my jetta
cait, 10/09/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I absolutely love my jetta. It might be a little mor expensive than some cars out there but it is well worth it. I haven't had any trouble with it at all. One really neat thing about it is i can put my key in my door to lock it and it will close my windows and sunroof for me. It has the most comfortable car seats i have ever sat in.
Few Problems
Syomau, 10/12/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I did experience a few problems in the first few months of ownership ranging from having to change the drivers seat cover to a few rattels all of which were fixed in a timely manner. Other wise Great car.
Jetta Wagon 04 1.8T Manual
Dina Nishioka, 11/16/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my car and how it performs. Great handling, great mileage, convenient features (rear mirror defrost, seat warmers, seat adjustments). However, little electronics concern me. Power windows, slow rear window defrost, etc. Overall, I am happy with my purchase. Should be a great car to have for ten years.
Nice design but poor quality
nwr, 11/16/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I decided on the Jetta 1.8T because it provided a nice list of features for the price, and I thought the 4cyl-turbo engine provided a decent compromise between performance and fuel efficiency. The car has great ergonomics and is comfortable to drive, but I've lost faith in the car's build quality and reliability. I've had the car for 5000 miles. Here are the problems I've encountered so far: 1) A/C did not work out of the box. Broken seal on the compressor had to be replaced. 2) Vacuum line "fell off" the intake manifold. Caused loss of power brakes and engine stalling. Had to be towed. 3) Very poor gas mileage--18mpg (2mpg better than my SUV!). Dealer is investigating...
GREAT CAR!!
Matt, 12/13/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just got my car, it was a lease return that was turned in early. I got a great deal and the car has everything I wanted. I had a 99 Jetta and decided I wanted something newer. This car is awesome and i would recommend. I've been reading that people are having problems. And I'm sorry you are, because I had my 99 forever and had nothing wrong except minor repairs.
Good Car but the Seats Stink
Estabhan, 11/24/2005
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love how the 2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T handles and the overall compact design. Its gas mileage is good, though not as good as others have said (27 to 30 mpg). The big problem is the seats - they are too narrow. I am 5 foot 9, 175 pounds so I consider myself average. After 1.5 hours in this car, my thighs have had it. I bought a seat pad from Brookstone that elevates me slightly (watch that headroom!) and relieves the pressure. My wife and all of the passengers I have had in it have noticed the same problem. Volkswagen offered no assistance saying it was "the design." I notice the new Jetta advertises more hip room. Go for the new one, leave this one to the sub 150 pounders.
don't buy this car
no farfegnugen here, 07/01/2004
2004 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
in the shop 4 times w/in 1st 6 mo for transmission problem, rough shifting - it's an automatic. svc dept unwilling or unable to resolve problems. poor customer svc. had my car 5 days & i had to call THEM each day to find out if it was ready. on road trip, couldn't get car out of park & EPC light on, had to call 4 dealers before one would fit us in. latch on center arm rest storage broke, gas cap cord broke. cup holders in bad location in front of air vents & over control panel. condensate drips all over radio & a/c controls.