2004 Volkswagen Passat consumer reviews

I have had a 2004 Passat Wagon since new . I have had the same problems mentioned in other reviews . Axle boot , engine lights coming on due to electrical coil issues , and other than those specifics just the usual maintenance . The coil issue was ongoing until VW finally came up with a coil that was correct in design and fixed the problem . This was not until about six-eight months ago . Until then I too was constantly having engine light come on and car run rough . Since replacing my coils with the latest design there have been no issues and the car runs great . Axle Boot can break down and need replacement but not all that expensive unless you go to shop that rips you off . It is not an entire axle replacement so if you are told that you are probably being ripped off . You do need to use synthetic oil due to turbo if you don't oil can clog and regular oil will not protect your engine or give optimum performance . So if someone used regular oil I can understand why they could have blown their engine . This car with a good set of all weather tires kicks butt in snow ! I drive in a sales job and it is very comfortable to ride in long distances . Gas mileage is very good . Multiple sets of golf clubs and luggage can be carried . Interior much better than a Honda or Camry . I have 124K on mine and since I have a great mechanic who knows VW Passat quirkiness I would not hesitate to buy another . In fact I have been shopping for 2009 -2010 Passats .

I purchased car used 2004 -Feb 2010, now 8 mos later the engine needs to be replaced. I hav found 400 same complaints when it comes to your oil consumption-make sure to let only your dealer perform oil changes or make sure to use synthetic oil only, although the manual states you can use 5w-30. After all the hassle of not being able to use the powertrain warranty, or extended warranty--this was a huge investment without any enjoyment whatsoever.

I bought the GLX Sedan new and have put close to 74000 miles on it. It has been the most reliable car I have ever owned. It has been dealer serviced since new, and only the routine things have been required. It is starting to get a few rattles that annoy me, but most people don't hear them.

The 2004 Passat is a good balance between economy and performance. The car has very good road manners and always feels solid and well planted. The 1.8 turbo provides ample acceleration while delivering around 31 mpg. It is coupled to a 5 speed manual transmission with near perfect gear ratios. VW did not skimp on features with the GLS trim. Sunroof, AC, power windows (one touch on driver's side for the front windows), power locks, keyless entry, Monsoon sound system and cruise. There are several hidden Easter eggs features with this car as well. Small pull down center visor for the small sliver above the rear view mirror, nook below the steering wheel for the owner's manual, pneumatic lifts for the hood, metal lift plate on the rear trunk lip, locking floor mats and many others. All and all I have been very pleased with the balance of ride quality, driving satisfaction and economy with my VW Passat.

This car is a very good value. It offers ample interior room, good feel of the road and comfortable ride. It delivers a good balance of power and economy; spirited performance with manual 5 speed and good gas mileage (around 30 mpg average). Many standard options that are extras on other modes; trip computer with outside temperature, sunroof, one-touch front windows, directional markers on mirrors, fog lights and above average sound system with Monsoon system.

I got this 2004 Passat Wagon 5 months ago, used with 60K miles on it. 5 months later, I have had to put new brakes, serpentine belt the first month. Next month an ignition coil went out, causing me to have to have my car towed to the shop to fix because it was dumping raw fuel in the catalytic converter. Mean time, check engine light seems to go on alot, take to shop several time to have read. 3rd month there is a new thudding noise when you turn right especially. Come to find out both front axels need replaced. The right one was the worst, the left one soon to follow. Just when I think Im done with the shop, the check light comes on again, and come to find out I need a new thermostat. Not easy or cheap fixes. I have been out at least $1200 in the past 4-5 months. I just got my car out of the shop yesterday and am praying that it will be awhile before I have to go in. it only has 69K miles on it.

I spent $13,000 on service, maintenance and repairs over 5 and a half years of ownership. Once warranty was over (after 4 and half years) my Passat started to fall apart. The fact that I kept up with scheduled maintenance did very little to performance. When I called VW all I heard was "warranty is over, there's nothing we can do for you". Stay away from Passat (unless you want to lease/buy for 3 years or less)

The car competes pretty well with the A4, Nissan Altima /Maximum, BMW 328i.I have had chance to drive the new 328i and the Passat ride is smoother and comfortable. Good quality interior materials. Drawbacks cd players cannot play mp3, premium oil and fuel. It would have better if the audio controls were on the steering wheel.

This is a fun car to drive with excellent fit and finish. However, it is very unreliable. Consumer Reports was dead on, the electrical system is a mess. The sunroof has leaked multiple times causing massive electrical system failure--inoperative cruise control, door and trunk lock failure, alarm failure. Electrical failure not covered by ?ultimate extended warranty? which was a $1,500 useless expenditure recommended by dealer. Also check engine light comes on seeming randomly. If this occurs randomly during state mandated emission testing, vehicle will not pass.

I own an 04 Passat... and it is an amazing car. #1 You get what you pay for. The Passats hold their value in price for a very good reason -- they are solid and dependable. #2 The styling is very aesthetically pleasing -on the interior and exterior. #3 You can't beat the turbo... it's awesome. #4 I've researched the safety ratings... and they're good. You can't go wrong with a VW. I gave 'Features' only 4 stars because it's only a 2004... the really awesome features just came out in the last couple years.