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2004 Volkswagen Jetta Pros and Cons at TrueDelta: Owner Pros and Cons by PaulS60

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Reviewed: 2004 Volkswagen Jetta

4dr Wagon turbocharged 180hp 1.8L I4 5-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Why the 2004 Volkswagen Jetta?

Powertrain performance

I appreciate the quickness of the turbocharged engine for entering highways and passing.

Cargo capacity

Plenty of space for luggage, shopping, etc. With rear seats folded, we even find enough room for aall the things we need to set up our stall at the farmers' market.

Front seat support & comfort

With the various seat adjustments you can find a comfortable position.

Controls and instruments

I like the blue lighting of the gauges for night.

Why Not the 2004 Volkswagen Jetta?

Reliability & durability

I simply haven't found it to be reliable. In little more than 1 year owning it's been in the shop at least ten times. Within one month of buying I had to take it back 3 times for electrical problems related to the alarm system going off after the car was locked. In 13 months of ownership I had already paid at least $2000 worth of repairs. Currently (at 17 months) the front brakes need to be redone ($600 min.), rear washer/wiper mechanism needs replacement ($150), and the timing belt, etc. ($1000 approx.) needs replacement because can't verify it wasn't done as required at 160000km!! Needless to say I'm looking to sell.

Past personal experience

No luck with VWs for me. I also owned a 1989 Jetta sedan. It was a disaster. First repair shortly after purchase was for the leaking sunroof. Cost: $500-$750 I believe. The major problem with this car was the engine. While driving the engine would choke itself off and stop completely. The first time it happened I was right in rush hour traffic! Can't recommend the experience! This car must have been a lemon.

Conclusion

Irregardless of my unfortunate experiences with Volkswagens I've heard plenty of good opinions of VWs too. I still find them to be one of the most solid and safe feeling vehicles I've driven. Compared to my previous vehicle my first Jetta felt like a tank and you felt as safe as if you were in one.

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