Used 2004 Volkswagen Passat Sedan Consumer Reviews
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Do not buy Passat
Roman, 01/04/2010
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Once warranty was over my Passat started to fall apart. In it's fifth year I spent over 5,000 on service and maintenance. VW service after recent inspection informed me about 2 additional things that need to be done in the nearest future (additional $2,000). I won't buy Volkswagen again and I recommend you to stay away from Volkswagen
Watch out for transmission problems
Will, 05/05/2009
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
We purchased a this car new in 2004. We noticed transmission problems immediately driving at low speeds or coming to a stop: the downshifting was sometimes violent. The dealership was poor to respond and later acknowledged that there was a software update which they installed. The problem was solved for a couple of years. One day while taking off from our house, a special dash symbol light came on indicating that the transmission was in the safe mode, meaning it could be limped to a dealer. This was in Dec 2007. The repair bill for rebuilding the transmission module was $2300. In short, expensive upkeep cost, poor dealership response. Next car might be American made.
2004 Volkswagen Passat for sale near you
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- GLS TDI Diesel SedanMSRP: $4,695474 mi away
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Excelent
Kevin, 12/31/2004
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I would never buy any other station wagon. This wagon is more fun then most cars Ive ever had.
Wonderful Passat
DavidJ522, 09/29/2004
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
The Passat GLX V6 combines a wonderful, stylish, toutonic design and a flawless drivetrain. As some say there are not enough "o's" in smooth to discribe its performance.
Texas 2004
jarvissn, 05/29/2004
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I love to drive this car. Needs to be more fuel efficient.
Fantastic
VWman, 11/25/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is a wonderful car and my first vehicle. It is sporty enough to keep me happy but calm and luxurious to please passengers. The styling both interior and exterior is excellent- there aren't many other cars in the world that look as classy as this.
SAFETY ISSUE BE AWARE
simoghize, 10/18/2012
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
4 of 19 people found this review helpful
i hate a car in front of me which caused other 2 cars ahead to be involved in the accident. the damage was severe as the whole front of the car was crashed including the engine and the passenger was fatally injured, he had a shoulder dislocation. what surprised me are the airbags, they never deployed even though i was driving 60 mph. after few days volkswagen of America sent an engineer to inspect the car. After he left i noticed the seatbelts are loose and the bottom cover is opened, it seems like he did it in purpose. before he came the seat belts were fine. what most surprised me is his decision that the airbags can't deployed in this case. iIshowed him the bottom of the car where is the chassis, it was bent from the direct impact of the forces that came through the bumper which also cause the front beam to twist, but never gave me a satisfied explanation. People who try to buy this car and have kids please be aware of this safety issue, my family was blessed to get out of this accident just with a shoulder dislocation, which could be worst. My next step is lawsuit against VW.
Despised VW Passat
despisedvw, 07/08/2011
2004 Volkswagen Passat GL 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
1 of 7 people found this review helpful
My car a VW Passat, its the worst experience I've ever made. Had 36K miles when I brought it after 42k the oil was mixing with G12 fluid causing it to over heat. Fix thanx to warranty $4000. Every year Im replacing CV Joints. any little thing to fix or change cost an arm and a leg...............I hate hate VW
Love this car but more power please
lomar, 11/30/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Outstanding ride for the price, great handling luxurious interior
Another warning light
Sharon, 02/09/2008
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased my passat used last fall. I was really excited to get it. I got a lemon this time. It is in shop about once a month with a warning light on. Already had part of the dash replaced and about 3 software upgrades. Both headlight burned out at the same time. Just turned 50K so the warranty is gone. I am just waiting for the next problem. VW has let me down. I am going back to toyota as soon as I can.
maranda's review
maranda, 11/30/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GL 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
i love my .v.w. its so fun to drive and the price is so afordable and me my husband and 3 kids fit so thats what i call my type of car thanks toyota
Worst car ever
VW mistake, 12/03/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I lease my passat..I have had it for 3 years....In & out of the shop too many times...problems w/emmissions & many other where car had to be towed 5 times. Think twice, 3 times before buying or leasing this car.
VOLKSWAGON LOVER
Alice Gourdine-Jones, 12/02/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GL 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I received my Passat for my birthday from my husband, i've wanted one for over 10 years. it is one of the best driving autos I have had the experience of driving.
still going strong
Steve, 09/19/2009
2004 Volkswagen Passat W8 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It has held up well through the years. It still looks stylish and is more attractive than the new iteration. It is heavy but very solid without rattles. The sport package with a six speed turns it into a sports sedan. No mechanical problems other than normal wear and tear. There are not many of these on the road and I suspect even fewer with a stick shift. The seats have held up well and show very little wear. The radio and cd player are still working well which is something that I couldn't say about my 91 passat. I see no reason why I can't keep this car for 10 more years since I only have 50,000 original miles on it.
WOW
Nologic, 12/03/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is the best in class. I compared everything from Acura to VW and this car for the price has the most bang for your buck. I love it, and I am sure you will to. Everything from the side impact air bags, to the heated mirrors(great for the cold weather places). The air condition is like a snow storm in Buffalo. The heat is like Hades for those cold winter nights. The inside of the car is so quiet with the radio off that you can hear a pin drop, no road or outside noise.
my 13th VW - the best ever
Allan, 06/09/2005
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Comfortable to drive, Turbo gives great kick. Gas mileage 33-34. Since Apr 04 never been back to the dealer for problem. The trunk handles almost everything with back seats down. Fit and finish is superb.
great car
dane2003, 12/03/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GL 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
excellent car, seats extremely comfortable, heats quickly, good air conditioner, fun to drive, seats designed by osteopath - good for people with back pain, so much room for midsize car.
A winner!
emma, 11/23/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
smooth! everything clearly marked. great design inside and out. car is very responsive and holds the road well.FUN to drive!
The Right Choice
Donna Manera, 12/03/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My boyfriend talked me into a VW instead of an Audi because of the savings. We saw it in the Consumer Report being the #1 best rated vehicle so I ended up buying it. I'm so happy with the entire package. The triptonic is so fun and the seats lay down where I can load it up with anything I want. The stereo is the best also. Thanks VW.
The Best Car
AGABABA, 12/03/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat W8 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I am 16 years old and this is my first car and it is spectacular. Although i do not have much experience with cars i have yet to find a flaw in this beautiful machine. Go ahead and get yourself one of these babies and the chicks (or hunks) will be all over you!!!
Disappointing
Opie, 12/03/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GL 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It is a typical VW, it is a wanna-be Audi or Porshe. It has some great features, but is short on design and quality. The metal dents really easily, and the paint is poor. The car has had two recalls already. I love to drive, and this car makes me want to drive less. If you are smaller in stature, it probably will work for you, but forget the tall people.
VW HAS A DEFINITE COIL PROBLEM
Jerry, 03/20/2009
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have been down the coil road with VW. They will not admit that it is a major problem with their car. I have almost been stranded twice with the coil problem. Once I was at the dealer & they told me I would have to wait until the following week to get it fixed. It is a really simple thing to replace . I called a friend (Mechanic) & he knew right away & told me to buy a coil at the dealer & he talked me through changing it. It was a trial & error method because I didn't know which one of the 4 was bad. It turned out to be #1 coil. 2 weeks later # 2 died. I replaced it & the other 2 & have solved my problem. I hope the new ones are more reliable! Also had to replace a front axle
economy plus zip
GHutch, 12/03/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We wanted good fuel economy (and get about 36 mpg on open highway @ 65 mph) with enough power to handle acceleration for merging and passing. The 170 hp in the 1.8 turbo met our requirements and we thoroughly enjoy our vehicle.
Miss My Smaller Cars
appraiser, 01/29/2005
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought the VW Passat 4-Motion because I drive 35,000 - 45,000 miles per year, at times in poor weather conditions. The 1.8T engine has adequate power, and accelerates well after a brief turbo lag. The ride is relatively sedate. The car does not repsond quickly in turns, and is less fun than expected on twisty roads. In a recent ice storm that paralyzed Raleigh the 4-Motion worked perfectly. I was even able to stop and start on a steep, ice-covered street without incident. It performs as intended-a comfortable work car that is safe and gets 27 mpg combined. Other vehicles that I considered were the Volkswagen GTI or Acura RSX. I chose the bigger car for the better ride quality. I should have gotten a car that is more fun to drive.
"My Silver Rocket"
ToriaMorgan, 12/03/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GL 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Santa Fe Dealership was wonderful. My Silver Rocket feels like a cross between an Audi and a BMW. Excellent handling, stops on a dime. Turbo lets me pass in the fast lane going uphill like the other car is standing still. I love it!!!
Mine is a "98 with 60,000 miles
pfdbiz@aol.com, 12/03/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GL 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My wife's car replacing a MB. She would never buy another MB, she loves the Passat. Not one problem in 60,000 miles. I do not get to drive it often since she is so happy with the car that she doesn't share it much. I asked her what she wanted as her next car and she said "the next Passat". Ride, comfort and handling, it can't be beat for the price.
pretty good car
john101, 10/16/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GL 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Fun to drive. Have had several recalls over the year I've owned it. I don't like the turbo "lag" in hard acceleration but gas mileage is good as is performance.
A lot of BANG for the buck!
jmschweizer, 12/04/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I am in no way going to tell you this is the best vehicle ever but I will say it is the most bang for the buck. I swore I would A. never buy a VW and B. buy a 4 cylinder. I was proven wrong on both points. Don't forget that the Passat is built in Germany. The Jetta's are too small & built in Mexico (I have heard horror stories about the Jetta's "nickle-diming" people to death). This car is solid, feels solid at speed (80mph), and is comfortable. The 4 cylinder turbo is all that you will need in power. You must drive this vehicle if you are considering a sedan. YOU WILL NOT BE DISSAPPOINTED!
Very happy with my Passat
Mladen, 02/14/2010
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I wrote a review back in 2006 - now I see I was unfair to this vehicle... 3 1/2 years later and 35000 miles later I like it even more... It has been a stellar performer and a fun car to have. I am planning on a major service in about 6 months (timing belt) and expect to drive it another 6-7 years. What a jewel...
My Ultimate Driving Machine
Rastaman, 12/03/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a very exelent vehicle, you get for what you pay and even more, exelent driving, handling and all for a good price.
Unbeatable Car
aslan, 12/08/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GL 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Even with the base model so much is included as standard, the only extra I got was the winter package - heated seats, mirrors and washers. Reliable safe and a pleasure to drive. Pleanty of space in the passenger compartment - I'm 6'4" and fit with ease - not something I can say about many bigger cars including SUVs. The 1.8T has never felt underpowered and is very economical. Some lag on the Turbo - but you soon get used to it and it doesn't detract from the drive. Build is solid. Trunk is huge for a car in this class. If I had to do it all over, I'd buy exactly the same car.
Excellent Car
Polymath, 12/19/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is the first car we got that wasn't a 6-cylinder (previous Accura, Mazda, Saturn were all 6 cylinder). We were plesantly surprised to see how smooth and powerful 4 cylinder Turbo can be. Decide not to pay extra $3000 for V6 and don't regret it. Excellent leather interior and thoughtul layout. AC even circulates through the globe compartment to keep things cool inside. Automatic transmission with Tiptronics offer the best of both worlds. Excellent safety and with ESP, the car felt solid in the snow storm we recently had here. It's fun driving the car again.
Great Buy
vwfan2004, 10/20/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have only owned my Passat for a couple weeks but I love it. It is such a smooth ride it is amazing. Also the exterior of the car is great, one of the best looking on the road. I love the interior, leather etc. I made a great choice and will probably be looking at buying another after this one!
Drive it
aniceguy, 12/18/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GL 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Perfect car it drives and handles excellent it is a smooth driving car with just the classy look to go with it.
Fun car
johnnyballgame, 12/22/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Excellent vehicle. Best I've ever driven.
Don't buy Volkswagen
ENZO CALFA, 02/17/2010
2004 Volkswagen Passat GL 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I enjoy the Volkswagen performance and body styles and have purchased two vehicles. The first one was a 1995 Golf which cost me more in repairs than the original price of the car. After reading how VW had improved reliability, I was suckered into purchasing the 2004 Passatt. My car is very well maintained and I average 10,000 miles per year. I won't list all the problems I've encountered since all the previous reviews have already listed them. My observation of VW is that they build cars to break down so that you buy replacement parts at inflated prices. My dealer quoted me $200 to replace 4 spark plugs. I purchased the plugs for $32 and spent 15 minutes to replace them. Don't buy VW!!!
Not impressed, But satisfied
Mr Jay, 10/22/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat W8 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Back in the shop w/less than 2500 miles. This vehicle has a tendancy to give ghost codes (caution/warning lights for no reason) the only problem with that is the inconvenience of the drive too and wait at the garage. The controls/levers are a tad bit confusing but you'll get used to them. On the up side the W8 has great lines and is very attractive. The interior lighting is neat. You will enjoy driving the W8, it has good exceleration (not great, good) If you don't like paying high gas prices don't buy this car. It runs on 91 OR BETTER OCTAIN that is what is suggested by VW.
Great Sedan
Ivonne Brown, 12/23/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GL 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Yes, after looking and test drive some japanes car such as nissan honda, mitsubishi and mazda. The winner was german car Passat. The classic lines and desing, the interiors and ergonomics. The small turbo 1.8 engine is agile and very responsive for a four cylinder.
Volkswagen Passat
UMboy03, 12/23/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I recently purchased my Volkswagen Passat from my mother prior to leaving for college. I had wanted something a little sportier and suited to customization, such as a GTI, or other sport coupe. Given a deal I could not pass up, I decided on the Passat (reluctantly at first.) I found, however, after looking the automobile over, that it had sufficient power (until I decided to upgrade that is) a luxury interior (in leather trim), and enough rooms for my friends and myself. After installing my custom sound system, this car is a definite keeper and crowd pleaser.
volks review
eyewired1, 10/25/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
nice car, good handling, decent acceleration while maintaining fuel economy, lots of good options. Apleasure to drive
Couldn't be more pleased
James Cook, 12/23/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The Turbo is very nice and provides more than adequate power. However when the temperature was over approx 86 degrees F., the motor was very short on immediate power. Perhaps it need something to cool the hot air at these times.
Zoom Zoom
VWNY, 12/27/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GL 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Excellent, smooth and fund to Drive. Intelligent panel display. Excellent safety freatures. Lot of power for 1.8, 190hp engine.
Save your money
Fun to Ride, 10/28/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
When I purchased this car, I bought into all the hype of how great the Passat was. I am still kicking myself for buying it. I am not a large man (5'9) but I felt I was really cramped up in the drivers seat. My larger friends had a heck of a time getting comfortable in the back. The 1.8 turbo is fun and this car win get out of the gate quickly, but the 13 gallon tank will make you think twice about getting on it. Options on this care are nice but VW will make you pay big time for it.
Another VW Success!!
CABiern, 12/27/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owned many VW's and driven them all into the ground. The Passat is terrific in all areas.
Great Car needs a few improvements
alyle, 01/02/2004
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Owned my Passat for a year and a half. I'd 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 didn't 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.
The Great 8
great 8, 12/12/2005
2004 Volkswagen Passat W8 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My 2004 Volkswagen Passat W8 4Motion AWD has a sports sedan feel with the sport package option. It has been reliable with good manners. It takes time to understand and appreciate this car. The engine is a unique configuration of two V4 motors sitting almost on top of each forming a W hence the name. The 4Motion keeps the 270 horses stabilized and glued to the road. Otherwise, a front drive 8-cylinder car might be gyrating out of contol. The manual 6-speed transmission is very pleasant to use. This car is understated and classy. The high density lights are a bonus driving at night in deer country.
question of reality
Don Wallis, 10/28/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GL 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Where do your get your "True Market Value" prices from?. As you know, dealers have additional fees (not included in t he published "invoice prices" because they vary from region to region) These include port fees and advertising. What Dealer is going to sell the 2004 Passat at Invoice? Are you just trying to stir up discontent between the buying public and the dealers. There's enough of that already. If you really want to do your readers a "favor," get real. Tell them what they REALLY should expect to pay.
I love this car
jotorre, 01/03/2004
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had nothing but great times in my car. The only place where i would purchase another VW is at Valenti in Watertown CT. Great people honest, Excellent service and they really go the extra mile for you. As far as I'm concerned they are the best dealership in this area.
10
josephine, 01/18/2004
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
great car. feels more solid than my husband's used 540i.
engine needs to be replaced
ron, 03/15/2010
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
hoped to keep the car a long time. now have paid $900 to have oil leaks in engine repaired. found out vw acknowledges engine problems but has not called for a recall. my mechanic advised to get rid of asap which I plan to do as soon as I can get the oil light to stop going off. have also replaced front axle, headlights, trunk hinge, coolant leak, dip stick replaced twice. car looks great, too bad all this has happened, but it is my last VW.