The Good
The 2004 Jetta offers a responsive driving experience and comfortable ride. The design is timeless, appealing to those seeking understated elegance. Practical buyers appreciate the fuel-efficient engine options (especially the TDI), and reasonable value, while emotional buyers enjoy the "German engineered" feel and sporty GLI trim.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2004 Jetta include potential electrical issues, specifically with window regulators and central locking. Some owners have reported problems with the mass airflow sensor and coil packs. Rust can also be a concern, especially in areas with road salt. Check for regular maintenance records.
2004 Volkswagen Jetta: Quick Overview
Key specifications for the 2004 Volkswagen Jetta:
- Engine Options:
- 2.0L Inline-4: 115 horsepower
- 1.8T Inline-4 Turbo: 180 horsepower
- 1.9L TDI Diesel: 90 or 100 horsepower (depending on year and emissions standards)
- 2.8L VR6: 200 horsepower (GLI only)
- Horsepower: Ranging from 90 to 200 hp depending on the engine.
- Fuel Economy:
- 2.0L: Approximately 22 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
- 1.8T: Approximately 22 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
- 1.9L TDI: Approximately 38 mpg city / 46 mpg highway
- 2.8L VR6: Approximately 18 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times:
- 2.0L: Approximately 10-11 seconds
- 1.8T: Approximately 7-8 seconds
- 1.9L TDI: Approximately 12-13 seconds
- 2.8L VR6: Approximately 6-7 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not generally recommended for towing. Maximum towing capacity, if equipped, is minimal (around 1,000 lbs).
- Trim-Level Features:
- GL: Base model, typically includes air conditioning, power windows, and basic audio system.
- GLS: Adds features like alloy wheels, upgraded audio, cruise control, and sometimes sunroof.
- GLI: Sport-tuned suspension, sport seats, unique styling elements, and more powerful engine options (1.8T or VR6). Often includes premium features.
- Other Notable Features: Available leather seats, sunroof, monsoon sound system, and heated seats (depending on trim and options package).
2004 Volkswagen Jetta Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 2004 |
Make | Volkswagen |
Model | Jetta |
Trim | - |
Style | - |
Type | Sedan |
Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
Made In | Germany |
Manufacturing City | WOLFSBURG |
Dimensions
Doors | 4-Door |
Curb Weight | 3078 pounds |
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 4090 pounds |
Overall Height | - |
Overall Length | - |
Overall Width | - |
Wheelbase Length | - |
Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
Engine | 2.0 4 |
Engine Size | 2L |
Engine Cylinders | 4 |
Transmission | - |
Transmission Type | Manual |
Transmission Speeds | - |
Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System | - |
Steering Type | - |
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $20,460 |
Invoice Price | $18,686 |
Delivery Charges | $575 |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2004 Volkswagen Jetta Have?
Rust, especially in areas with salted roads, is another long-term reliability concern. Checking the undercarriage and lower body panels for rust is crucial before purchasing.
Regarding recalls, it's important to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website with the specific VIN of any potential purchase to see if there are any outstanding recalls. While specific model year issues aren't drastically different for the 2004, earlier Mk4 models had more reported incidents of some of these problems. Regularly scheduled maintenance, especially oil changes and timing belt replacement (for non-TDI engines), is critical to long-term reliability.
How long will the 2004 Volkswagen Jetta last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features included standard front airbags, and optional side airbags. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was generally standard or optional depending on the trim. Electronic Stability Program (ESP) was less common but available on some models, particularly the GLI.
Crash test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) varied depending on the specific test and model year, but the 2004 Jetta generally received good marks for frontal crash protection. Side impact protection was rated lower in some tests, highlighting the advancements in safety technology in later vehicles. It is highly recommended to consult the NHTSA and IIHS websites for specific crash test ratings for the 2004 Jetta.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2004 Volkswagen Jetta Prices and Market Value
2004 Volkswagen Jetta Cost of Ownership
2004 Volkswagen Jetta Fuel Efficiency
2004 Volkswagen Jetta Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2004 Volkswagen Jetta Recalls & Defects
Exterior Lighting:brake Lights:switch
Fuel System, Diesel
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder
2004 Volkswagen Jetta Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2004 Volkswagen Jetta Compare to Other Sedan?
In terms of features, the Jetta was competitive, but rivals often offered similar or better features at a lower price point. For example, the Civic was known for its reliability and the Corolla for its fuel economy and longevity.
If reliability is a primary concern, a Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla might be better alternatives. If driving enjoyment is paramount, a Mazda 3 offers a similar experience with potentially better reliability than the Jetta. However, the Jetta's TDI engine option provides a unique blend of fuel economy and performance that few rivals could match. The Jetta offers a "Euro" feel that some buyers highly value.
Ranks #1990 Sedan
1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
1990 | 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2004 Volkswagen Jetta a Good Sedan?
Joel on November 5, 2020
Bought it for a 60 year old GrandmotherThis an immaculate, well cared for car with only 48K miles. It was and is perfect for my purposes. I purchased it for a family member who recently had a bad experience with an unscrupulous used car dealer, and was left with no car and no money.
jetta thriller😱 on January 21, 2020
MOST UNRELIABLE CAR I'VE OWNEDnow i see why people was ditching this car..2many issues 👎,,.there should have been a recall on da transmission on these 04-07 jetta,to replace da valve body..since it da brain of da trans..🤔
Wil on August 6, 2019
Most reliable car I ownedThis car meets all my needs, has plenty of room, great car to have fun, with great mileage, up to 40 MPG. The engine is very good.
Ashlyn on March 26, 2019
Nice first carnice first car to have for a teenagers first car. it was reliable not many issues that ever had to be fixed. the car lasted a long time and has a lot more life to live
josephlyons on March 17, 2019
My Part Time LoverBetween the heated seats for the winter and the perfect sunroof for the summer - this has been the best car to have for a little while. We wound up with this as an extra vehicle so it's time to let the Jetta find a new owner and send it on new adventures. It's been great for a jaunt to the beach, haul a bunch of groceries, and take the coworkers out for a bite. I will miss this car, but it's new owner is going to love it! 🙂
Alban on June 6, 2018
Very economic in gas, drive smoothOwn this car for 3 year now, cheap to maintain, easy to find parts, low maintenance, strong engine. Extra features added, like a rear back up camera, dash cam, jack audio, Bluetooth.
Curcer on April 30, 2018
04 Jetta Wagen served its purposethe design was classic, the car was reliability and the wagon could fit in more stuff. Except the resell value was low dude to low demand.
Hwudoin on March 5, 2018
One of the best all-rounder cars out thereLast of the German made Jetta's. The quality was never the same after they started assembly in Mexico. This car is solid, very comfortable and excellent on diesel. I get roughly 40-50 mpg all depending on how it's driven. The key is keeping up on maintenance and 5-6k oil changes.
ed on September 15, 2017
bad transmition sytemsDo not work well the transmission systems, when is turning the shift do not work well and suddenly change to a wrong shift
Marqfan15 on September 11, 2017
Very reliableVery comfortable even for 6'+. Reliable and fuel efficient. Even after 13 years of salty winters there is not a spec of rust. Minor electrical problems but overall awesome car especially for commuting.