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Used 2004 Volkswagen Passat Sedan Consumer Reviews

4.5 out of 5 stars
256 reviews
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Pros
Cons
4 out of 5 stars

Don't believe all the myths about these cars!!!

William, 05/14/2016
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
33 of 35 people found this review helpful

I have driven American cars my entire life, and almost bought another one after my accident in a 2006 Chevy Malibu. To the Chevy's credit, it was comfortable and had great gas mileage, but it was definitely not safe enough, and there were compromises in other areas. Some of which included build quality, performance, design, etc. After a lot of research about these car, and my son being a huge German car fan, I decided to test drive this car on the roads I'm accustomed to and in the way I drive. The performance is excellent, and the ride is very capable and tuned for comfort. After looking at about 15 different cars (foreign and domestic), this was definitely the best and safest car for the money. For years I have heard of so many horror stories about these cars, mostly about parts and reliability and things like that. I have had no trouble so far. This car does require some knowledge and willingness to learn, and simple maintenance is easy to do and is relatively cheap (like replacing a cabin air filter in a few minutes with a $12.00 aftermarket part). Only if you go to the dealer for absolutely everything will you see the money piling up. I would recommend doing simple things like that yourself. But really, no major problems whatsoever. Just as reliable as American cars. I was lucky to find this car, as it is a high trim car with the better engine and features. It was a one owner car, and was obviously well taken care of for the 67,000 original miles. My one big complaint about this car is the gas mileage which is about 20-24 in mixed driving. Although it says in the owners manual that you can run it on regular gas (not E85), I use the middle-grade one and my car runs perfectly. Otherwise, it's a great looking, comfortable, and fun car that I hope to enjoy for many miles to come.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

I Still LOVE This Car

thevelvetelvis, 03/31/2012
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
11 of 11 people found this review helpful

I bought my 2004 passat GLX 4motion slightly used with less than 9,000 miles on it. I lived in North Idaho for 11 years and this little car handled everything the weather threw at it. Now I'm in Florida and I still love my car. I'm At 65,000 miles and It has had no problems at all. Zero. I always do the routine maintenance and It still runs amazingly well. I have always had Japanese cars with their very good repair record but loved the way this little car handled so I bought it, always thinking if it becomes a problem, I'll sell it and move on. When it's time to replace this car I'll get another German car. I just love the way they handle. It's sick, but I do love this car.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

My first car

lanczer, 11/13/2011
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
19 of 21 people found this review helpful

My Father has owned 7 VWs in his lifetime. When it was time for me to get my licence my dad gave me his passat. I got it with 170,000 miles on it and absolutely no problems. This car was bought new and driven everywhere. I have driven many cars and this was by far my favorite. Its a Luxury Experience with superb handling and performance for its size. Only a short year after getting the car i was hit by a drunk driver. i was driven of the road, went airborne, and ended up in the woods. All of the airbags went off and i was able to walk away completely unscathed. The care was totaled but needless to say this car saved my life. Just yesterday i bought another one. I cant live without my VW.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Smooth and understated

Frank Denver, 04/24/2010
2004 Volkswagen Passat W8 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful

Bought my W8 used after a failed Infiniti trannny from mountain driving in Colorado. After 52,000, it has been my best car to date (Lexus, Infiniti, Subaru). The W8 matched to the auto tranny is as smooth as you get. The handling is refined and very solid. With snow tires, I've had no problems even in the mountains west of Denver. There have been no mechanical issues and my overall cost of ownership has been lower than expected. 22mpg mostly highway running between 80-85mph. I get tons of compliments on this car's BBS rims and the overall look.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

You need to know what you are getting into

roznstyle, 01/13/2012
2004 Volkswagen Passat GL 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
19 of 22 people found this review helpful

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

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Best car for your money!!

jolenecb, 01/22/2013
2004 Volkswagen Passat GL 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
10 of 11 people found this review helpful

I love my 04 VW Passat! It is by far the best purchase I have ever made (great price for an AWESOME car). Bought it at 58,000 miles and it is flawless. The turbo is wonderful; and even though I have a basic model it has great features like the bump shifter, seat warmers, cruise control, great sounding stereo, high quality interior and more! It's German engineering at it's finest! You can feel the quality everytime you drive it. It is NOT a cheaply made Honda or Toyota. I recommend a Passat!

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5 out of 5 stars

My favorite car

KevinG, 06/21/2005
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
13 of 15 people found this review helpful

I have put 15,000 miles on this car in the past year and have enjoyed every minute of it. This car is a 5-spd manual. I test drove the automatic but it tended to hesitate from a stop. The only problem I have had with this car is that I'm always driving too fast (I've never had a speeding ticket, I'm not a speeder). It just performs best and feels best if I push it. The combination of 4Motion and manual makes it sprint from a stop. I will never get another car without 4Motion; I can hardly stand the comparative lack of road grip in our FWD cars, dry or wet. Gas mileage has been 32mpg@55mph, 30@65. Performance suffered the one time I filled with 87 octane, but 90 and up has been fine.

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5 out of 5 stars

Best vehicle I ever owned

paulinthesouth, 04/12/2013
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
13 of 17 people found this review helpful

Reading review after negative review I wonder whether I was just lucky, or whether my experience is more representative of the norm. My Passat was totalled last summer when a tree blown over by a storm crushed my garage (of course the Passat was in the garage). My experience? 95,000 miles with only 2 service matters. Fuel pump failed at 88,000. Parts and labor < $300. Replaced one CV boot at same time as a precaution. Parts and Labor also about $300. That's it. Outstanding performance and handling. Understated but elegant interior. Good ergonomics. Seats were firm but wonderful for long trips.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

LOVE IT FOR THREE YEARS

galiti, 10/05/2011
2004 Volkswagen Passat GL 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

Excellent car for one or five passengers! Quiet, comfortable, reliable and safe. Good traction.

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5 out of 5 stars

42,000 Miles of Happiness

Curtson, 03/19/2007
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

I've had this car for 42,000 problem-free miles and have enjoyed all of them. It has a 5-speed manual transmission and 4-Motion which has been a great combination (no longer offered) for handling in all conditions. The driver's seat is the most comfortable car seat I have used. I never get sore on long trips. I find the seat in my wife's 2005 Camry to be far less comfortable. The gas mileage has been better than expected: 32 mpg @ 55-60mph, 30 mpg @ 65-70mph. The acceleration is way too much fun. My 18 year-old son doesn't care for the way it looks, but after driving it, said it is a hot car. I no longer let him drive it by himself. I want to drive this car for a long time.

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3.38 out of 5 stars

Upscale performace with horrible reliablity

roznstyle, 12/20/2012
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
11 of 18 people found this review helpful

Purchased the vehicle brand new in 2/04. Followed the recomended mantenance religiouly. In the years I've owned the vehicle I was left stranded 4 times and needed to be towed to a garrage. Tow #1 60K miles. Water pump (make of PLASTIC) failed causing the engine to overheat. Tow #2 75K miles. Fuel Pump failure. Tow #3 100K miles. car would not start. Brand new spark plugs were dirty and needed to be cleaned. Simple issue is a major problem when stranded. Tow #4 120K miles. water pump (Aagain!) after inspection, we needed, new water pump, timing belt, tensioners, cam seal, aux fan, main fan bearing, new belts, to the tune of 2K from a reputable 3rd party VW mechanic. Never Again VW!

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4.75 out of 5 stars

2004 Passat is indeed a fun to drive

rmm3313, 09/25/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

The GLS has great standard features as well as nice extras. I have not owned the vehicle for that long I may be jumping the gun a bit but this is the third week I have it and it is amazing. The roomyness of the car is a great plus and the air conditioning is great,Its HOT in Florida!! not to mention the sound system and sunroof. Shop around for better prices. The cars safety features are a huge plus for the family and as far as insurance is concerned. The feel of its drive is captivating because of the turbo 1.8 engine that is nothing to laugh at. IF you ever forget its power it will instantly remind you. The fact that the 1.8T is a ULEV is a plus.

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5 out of 5 stars

consistency

stefi, 10/30/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

First fell in love with Passat overseas. This is my first brand new Passat, but even two different used Passats were so well built and reliable, I had to have a new one. I never worry about this car leaving me stranded with mechanical problems. Besides routine maintenance, I have not seen a mechanic in years! Buying a Volkswagen is a perfect way to enjoy smart,solid German engineering without the prices of Mercedes and BMW!

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3.5 out of 5 stars

Big Disappointment

RAL, 10/21/2008
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

The dealer has been fantastic! The first 30K miles I owned this car I thought it was the best vehicle I have purchased new! (my used 1990 Miata with 200K miles beats anything!!) Since the 30K mark it has been all down hill! All of the ignition coils have failed. Only after the "sludge problem" stopped the car dead was I informed by the dealer that VW sent out clarification in late 04 about the need for synthetic oil! I bought in 2005 & had no notice of this! Now with 60K I am told one axle needs to be replaced & the boot on the other is leaking! (Not warrantied!)($1000) I can't tell you how many service issues, recalls! seat heaters, shock bolts, on & on & on!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

passat

ConnieW, 10/18/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

it's a great car, reliable, fun to drive

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4.75 out of 5 stars

2004 VW Passat GLX (V-6) with auto

Mauser, 02/07/2004
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Owned the car 1 month and love almost everything. Con sides: 1. no repeat function on the radio for cassette or CD, 2. separate switch to heat exterior mirrors (should be included in rear window defroster switch), ackward to adjust exterior mirrors, 3. poor gas mileage with auto trans., 4. rear window sunshade should be electric vs. manual. Pros: great handeling, power, options are plentiful and included in base vehicle, 2. heated seats to include back rest, 3, light on bottom of all doors to see where you step, 4) well built car

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1.25 out of 5 stars

passat hater

passat hater, 09/29/2010
2004 Volkswagen Passat GL 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I haven't even had this car for a year and I hate it! bought it used and I was so happy, Low mileage (47,000) and great looking but it wasn't long before the check engine light came on. Got that fixed now its on again. The enterior is peeling and the knobs are falling off. They must have been on a strict budget building this one. Just looking forward to the day I can trade it in for a toyota!!! And the Premium gas and Oil stinks too.

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3.13 out of 5 stars

Fun, but huge waste of money! Listed Repairs.

karmann11, 04/02/2012
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
27 of 51 people found this review helpful

The car is fun to drive, AWD 4motion is amazing, and it does deliver fantastic MPG vs other models released the same year. Here's the issue. Read all other reviews, It's a maintenance lemon! Below I've listed the problems occurred after owning my car for 3 years (2009 - 2012, 54k - 96k miles) 1) Timing belt replaced - $320 2) 2 Coil packs - $240 3) Oil sludge recall - covered fortunately 4) 3 CV boots - $750 5) Oil Cooler failure - $1,600 6) 2 front axles - $360 7) 2 Cylinder Oxygen Sensors - $400 8) Clutch - $800 9) Fuel pump - $800 10) 4 tires - $450 11) 4 brake pads, calipers, rotors - $600 Total repair costs = $6,320 not including routine oil change, tire balancing, etc: $400/year

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4.5 out of 5 stars

W8 Passat Review

Rob Kerian, 09/10/2009
2004 Volkswagen Passat W8 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful

I would only take the time to write a review if a car was exceptionally good or a piece of junk. Well, the Passat W8 is by far the best car I have ever owned. The 8 cylinder engine is silky smooth, as is the 5sp tranny - all wheel drive. I believe the interior build quality and materials is better than a new Lexus I bought for my wife (she picked it out!). I bought it because I refuse to drive a Statement Car. You know the car makes I'm talking about. Admittedly, this was a relatively expensive car new, but it has been a wonderful car that I intend to keep for some time.

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1.13 out of 5 stars

Stay away!!! Has SOOO many issues!!!

passathater, 08/15/2014
2004 Volkswagen Passat GL 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
10 of 27 people found this review helpful

I bought my 2004 Passat GL in 2011 with 91k mi. on it for $7900. In just 3 years I've 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. It's current value wasn't even worth it to fix. I sincerely advise EVERYONE to stay away from this vehicle!!! I personally will NEVER buy a Volkswagen again!! Don't make the mistake I did... DO YOUR RESEARCH!!!

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3.5 out of 5 stars

Should be recalled

W8in for it to Godot, 08/18/2008
2004 Volkswagen Passat W8 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
2 of 4 people found this review helpful

Apparently, almost every W8 suffers from a cam adjuster problem that costs approx $10K, and takes a month, to fix. The part has a design flaw, which VW of America has fixed, but they will not offer any warranty help, or support their dealers, who often can't fix these cars.Between the cost of the parts and the constant problems, a W8 cost more than a Porsche to run. Not a car for real world applications.

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5 out of 5 stars

my baby

Spikeddy13, 08/31/2004
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I love this car. It's my first car and I will never do anything other than a German build from now on. It's amazing.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Love it

Denverw8, 02/08/2009
2004 Volkswagen Passat W8 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I bought this car used after my 328xi was stolen. I was somewhat pressured into it and can't say I regret it. I drive in Denver and the mtns. I have been impressed by the smoothness and comfort of the car. It feels every bit as well built as my old 3 series. At 100+mph in the mtns, it feels as solid as any other German car I have owned. The 4 motion with snow tires is perfectly fine even in 14 inches of new snow yesterday. After 62000, I have not experienced any issues at all. I am frequently complemented on how nice it looks with the BBS rims and love the relative stealthiness of this car. I may never own a V6 again. I just added a new Kenwood nav/stereo/bluetooth...A+

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4.75 out of 5 stars

sweet

joe stuarts, 08/26/2004
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

This car looks and drives like a million bucks. It does everything well, from cruising hundreds of miles at 90 mph to running errands around town. You get a fantastic sense of control and safety when driving it. Want to impress your friends? You got it. Want to take your friends downtown for dinner? You got it. Want to get to work QUICK? You got it. Want to cruise in style? You got it. Want to go slow to save some fuel? You got it. Want to fold down the seats and haul some serious cargo? You got it. Most importantly, it's not an Acura or Honda so it really stands out in the crowd.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great Car

Sean, 12/05/2004
2004 Volkswagen Passat GL 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

We have really enjoyed our new Passat. We test drove a manual and found it to be quite jerky and slow out of first gear. The automatic has the same brief slow start but is much less jerky. The car rides very well and looks great. It is comfortable to drive with good lumbar support and it really has a nice solid feel on the road. Some people have noted that the engine is sometimes confused when entering a freeway and shifts too quickly and does not approach top speed quickly. I've found that if you let it accelerate with moderate application to the gas pedal and then punch it at about 35-40 mph it will really go. We zip past other cars on the freeway without a pause.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great car!

a.m.k., 02/03/2004
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I test drove so many cars before the Passat and was immediately sold. I love everything about this car, and am so happy with my purchase. I love to drive this car and have found nothing negetive about it. I have and will strongly reccomed it to anyone I know shopping for a car.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great Car!

RRanchL, 09/11/2004
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

This car is way more car than I expected! I went to get a Jetta and ended up in a Passat and am I glad. It's truely a luxury sedan at no where near the price of a BMW or Mercedes for the same features! I love driving it and you don't see a million of them on the road like some of the other sedan models! Highly, Highly recommend.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Simply the Best

marek, 06/02/2004
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Great car to drive on the Dallas Texas interstate. Easy and fun to drive and loads of safety features.

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5 out of 5 stars

Feels good to be in a new Passat

B5_Passat, 05/14/2004
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

My previous 99 GLS V6 Passat was the victim of a rear-end collision - this GLX replaces that car. In intervening five years, VW has added a lot of amenities - too numerous to mention. The car has the right balance of performance and practicality. The V6 is smooth, quiet, and very responsive. OnStar is an interesting addition to the Passat. Time will tell if this is a valuable feature. Overall, I was pleased with the purchase - $26K plus tax and 1.9% financing. This is pretty good considering MSRP is $31,430.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

awesome!

Brian, 03/13/2010
2004 Volkswagen Passat GL 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Ive only had this car about 2 months, so far with 63k mi, my wife and i love it. 25-35mpg is a little less than i wanted, but still pretty good. fun to drive, takes corners like a champ.. 1.8T has been "upgraded" with a new performance chip, giving me roughly 200hp (up from 170), blowing those other sports cars away.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

VW Passat, a great performer

Christopher W. Powel, 12/06/2005
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

At sixty-one years of age, I have owned quite a few automobiles and trucks. Having purchased my first Volkswagen in 1980, a Jetta, I have driven nothing else since. I bought the 2004 VW Passat GLX 4Motion for my wife in November of 2003, and had only one complaint. That complaint was precipitated by the "clunk" that transmission made when downshifting. However, a software update cured the problem, and we have had nothing but positive experiences with the car since. This is, without question, the most comfortable, best handling (for its size), and most reliable automobile that I have ever owned. I recommend the Passat to anyone who wants a high-quality car at a reasonable price.

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5 out of 5 stars

Great Fun Car

rraleighguy, 03/29/2004
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

After I got smart and left the Volvo cult--I got SOOO much more for my money at VW--The Passat handles great--is a great looking car--definitely the best car I've ever owned

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2.5 out of 5 stars

Not satisfied

unhappy, 07/21/2008
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

We got the 2004 passat with a special lease called the driver's option. We've had the car for 4 years and averaged about 11,000 miles a year. There is very little room for your personal things such as a wallet, sun glasses, water, cd's etc. The car must have had 8 recalls (seat heaters, fuel leaks etc.). The car spent about 6 weeks in repair shops and everything was under warranty but our lease is up and we'll NEVER buy another Volkswagen as long as we live. Now that the lease is up Volkswagen sent out their inspector to go over the car and charge us as much as possible for any scratch or nick they can find. I've leased a lot of vehicles but I've never been nit- picked like this. Beware!

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5 out of 5 stars

70,000 miles without problem

Curtson, 05/13/2009
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Most writers seem to have complaints but that is not my experience. I wrote about this car at 42,000 miles and am doing a follow-up. I still like this car as much as I did then. I've had to replace the headlight bulbs, a couple relay switches, and the rear lights. The timing belt replacement ($600) is usually done at 90,000 miles but I'm doing it at 80,000 to be on the safe side. I've replaced it in other cars so don't see this as an unusual expense. Slightly more expensive total repairs than my wife's 2005 Camry but it's a lot more fun - we always take this car.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

More than my money's worth

Jasonf, 06/02/2004
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

As a long-time truck driver the size of the wagon has taken getting some use to. I have now learned that bigger is not better! The Passat Wagon is fun to drive, safer than my trucks and all-in-all a very good value. Despite the age of the line I believe this vehicle to be one of the best looking wagons on the road. I actually feel I got more than what I paid for with the luxury, looks and performance the Passat provides.

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5 out of 5 stars

Awesome Car!

cj5689, 12/03/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I love this car! This is my second Passat. After looking at number of other sedans both lower and higher in price (BMW,Honda,Mercedes,Toyota), I could not justify leaving the VW and all of its standard features, quality of materials, fit and finish, and most of all, the crisp and responsive handling. Plus with 6 airbags and anti lock brakes standard, its a great family car as well which was important for me. Its not the cheapest and certainly not the most expensive sedan, but when you look at what you are not getting in some of the lower priced competitors models, the Passat makes perfect sense!

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4.75 out of 5 stars

This is a VW?

rangerfan, 01/29/2004
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Very handsome sedan.Takes the bumps a little hard(would gladly give up some handling for that).Nice dashboard with all those red and blue lights.Looks like the cockpit of a jet.Just passed 8000 miles with no problems.Also,very nice power.I wish I could let this car out somewhere.Did go to 95 once and it felt solid.Love all those GLX goodies.

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3.5 out of 5 stars

Don't Buy One

mugsy, 10/06/2010
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Too many problems---prone to engine failure& electrical problems--I had to replace 2 front axels all 4 coil packs (got stranded twice after the warrenty expired). Complained to VW. They sent me a recall on coil Packs 2 years later. I had thrown out receipts & already gotten rid of car because I didn't know what was going to go bad next. Repair bills are very costly at the dealership. VW is a car I will never buy again. I now own a Nissan Rogue.

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5 out of 5 stars

Makes you look real smart!

VolvoOwner, 04/08/2004
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

First drove one as a Volvo service loaner and liked the firm handling. Excellent engine response and good turbo kick. Found 1.8L had sufficient pick up. The cool styling sedan is definitely a head turner on the road and the metallic blue finish (better than the other 4 shades of grey/silver) is a real knock out. Simple, sleek looking alloy wheels. The front leather seats are comfortable and the steering wheel has a sporty but rich feels. Monsoon CD sounds great. A very smart German buy as opposed to wasting $ on a locally assembled 3 series, which is inferior in terms of ride, comfort and handling.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Love my VW!

schmoopy, 08/25/2004
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Purchased a used 2003 GLX Passat with 34K mi. It was a big change going from a SUV, but I love it. I did a lot of research and got a great price. I haven't even had it a week yet, but am very happy. If you are looking for a car in this class, you must check it out. Great value for the luxury feel compared to other cars in the class. Lots of bells and whistles. Drives very smooth. Very fun to drive in the city and a great highway ride. Took a little time to get used to the way the gears change. Wish it didn't need premium gas.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Passat bests more expensive rivals

bbhall, 02/10/2004
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

We bought a Passat GLX after comparing with Audi A4, Volvo S60, and Infiniti G35. The S60 is a stodgy drive, the rear seat not roomy enough to regularly hold 2-3 adults comfortably, and service costs are high. The Audi provided a similar driving experience but felt cramped, especially in the back, and the CVT made the car lurch and surge. The Infiniti is all about acceleration and handling, but ride is a bit rough and interior not up to the VW standard, and styling is a little kitschy. I paid more for the Passat, but I got the better car. Passat competes well with entry luxury brands and functions better as a family car.

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2.75 out of 5 stars

Sold, thank god!

Robert - Atlanta, 08/31/2008
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

This car is junk. I have been waiting to sell/trade the car so I could write this. Do not buy one unless you like going to the repair shop. Also, since the car breaks frequently, they have taken loaner cars away. Please note that I work on cars and took immaculate care of this vehicle. These items broke due to poor build: Antilock computer system, front emblem fell off (700 miles), heated seats, door lining, radio, 2 rear speakers, brake lights, cv axles, cat. converter, fuel pump, seats wore. Also this car has a timing chain, do not buy around 100K since you will be out 700-1400 $$$$. Buy something else for your own good. Also, be leery of the VW dealers around Atlanta - Scammers!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Passat GLS V6

Piech, 10/22/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Best car I have ever owned. The way the switchgear works, that all effort is the same, the solidity, the quality of materials and build quality cannot be matched by any American.

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3.38 out of 5 stars

Just don't do it

Laura, 09/28/2010
2004 Volkswagen Passat GL 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I bought this car for the same reason many people buy Volkswagens: They look nice and are fun to drive. Well, they are fun until they start breaking down!! My car has had an array of problems. I would NEVER buy a Volkswagen again. I know lots of friends with Passats and Jettas, they have issues with theirs to. Volkswagens are good up until about 60,000, and then they're junk. Oh, they do not hold their value well at all either. I will say that this car was fun and roomy in the front. I did feel safe in it, as it is a heavier car. There are other cars out there - do not settle on a Volkswagen.

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5 out of 5 stars

Awesome Passat "love those Germans"

Rick Snider, 11/04/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Great car! We have only had it a month but it is awesome on the road and it has all the bells and whistles. Firm ride with great handling and low end tourque. Monsoon stereo is great! The dash lights up red and blue at night. Its a great look.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

VWPassat GLX Sedan

J.Haidar, 10/30/2003
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

If you have not bought one, please do and you better go for the best,GLX.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

A really fine automobile

rob_rocket, 02/07/2012
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
4 of 14 people found this review helpful

Original owner of a 2004 Passat GLS 1.8T, this has been one great car. Exceptional performance, handling and fuel economy. The VW/Audi 4 cylinder turbo engine is one of the most sophisticated production engines being built, and is easy to modify for even better performance and driveability. Mated with the automatic transmission, a reprogrammed VW turbo provides amazing low-end torque and acceleration. You can easily out accelerate a V8 powered machine off the line. I also have a 5 series BMW and honestly, this car is more fun to drive - more road feel, lighter, easier to put it where you want it on the road. But don't skimp on maintenance - this car requires regular, skilled car.

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5 out of 5 stars

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.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Four Year Follow-Up

HtownHeff, 02/11/2008
2004 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

We are 4 years and 50K miles into our Passat. Overall, it has been reliable and a supremely comfortable highway car. Have has some service niggles: front under spoiler has fallen off a few times, roof gutter came loose, and most recently, drivers side seat heater burned a hole in the seat. Besides this, the feature set of the 2004 now seems a little limited. Despite all this, though, the Passat still proves to be reasonable fun to drive transport for my family.

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5 out of 5 stars

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.

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