2004 Volkswagen Jetta Recalls, Problems & Safety Rating

2004 Volkswagen Jetta recalls

Most common 2004 Volkswagen Jetta problems

Problem areas named in the 231 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.

Problem area	Reports
Engine And Engine Cooling	39
Electrical System	37
Power Train	36
Air Bags	23
Seats	22
Fuel System, Diesel	13
Engine	11
Visibility	10
Fuel System, Gasoline	10
Structure	9

What owners report

2025-09-03, Electrical System
The contact owns a 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed while it was raining, the windshield wipers were activated; however, the wipers failed to function as intended. The contact stated that the wipers failed to operate. In addition, the contact stated the brake lights failed to function as intended. The contact was informed that the brake lights failed to activate while the brake pedal was depressed. The contact stated that the front driver's side window was closed; however, the driver's front side window was independently lowered. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed wit

2024-09-28, Electrical System
Unknown, very complex. Multiple issues. Have been addressed as well as parts been replaced however other issues arised that are definitely safety concerns between electrical issues engine motor etc

2024-01-30, Service Brakes
A4 VW BEW TDI BRAKE BOOSTER VACUUM HOSE updated part# 1J0 612 041 FD VW part numbers 1J0 612 041 N and 1J0 612 041 FD. These hose are known for cracking at the plastic tube causing low vacuum; poor / inconsistant braking performance. This could lead to crashes, injuries, and loss of life. These hoses were recalled in the UK, but not in USA for unknown reasons. Vaico is the oem supplier of these hoses, and were most likely fitted to all bew TDI m/t mk4 VW vehicles sold world wide.

2019-03-20, Engine
MY CAR IS CURRENTLY STAGED AT MY HOME IT'S STILL DRIVABLE BUT I DON'T KNOW GOR HOW LONG! I RECENTLY BOUGHT THIS CAR FROM A DEALER IN CALIFORNIA ABOUT 3 MONTHS AGO, NOW ALL OF A SUDDEN I'M HAVING ISSUES WITH MY TRANSMISSION I CAUGHT THE ISSUE FAST AND TOOK IT TO A MULTISTATE TRANSMISSION SHOP AND THEY TOLD ME THEY WOULD HAVE TO REBUILD MY TRANSMISSION WITH THE AMOUNT OF MONEY I ALREADY SPENT ON FIXING UP THIS CAR I AM EXTREMELY UPSET, I CANNOT AFFORD SUCH A INSANE AMOUNT EVERYTHING WITH THE CAR BESIDES THAT IS PERFECT THOUGH.

2019-01-20, Steering
LOOSE STEERING CHANCE OF LOSS OF CONTROL DUE TO INCORRECT TIE ROD END FROM KIT SPECIFIC TO VEHICLE. RESULTING IN RUINED TIRES AND ALIGNMENT. HTTPS://WWW.AUTOPARTSWAREHOUSE.COM/SKU/VOLKSWAGEN/JETTA/REPLACEMENT/CONTROL_ARM_KIT/2004/TDI/4_CYL_1-DOT-9L/REPV281502.HTML . THE KIT I BELIEVE HAS A TIE ROD END MEANT FOR A PREIOUS GENERATION VOLKSWAGON AS IT IS SMALLER IN DIAMETER AND CANNOT TAPER LOCK. IT TOOK ABOUT A MONTH OF DRIVING FOR IT TO LOOSEN UP. THE PHYSICAL PROBLEM IS THE OUTER TIR ROD BUT THE INNER TIE ROD IS OF A SMALLER DIAMETER AND ADJUSTMENTS WERE MADE INSTALLING SO THE DUST BOOT WOULD PROPERLY SEAL BUT IT WAS MECHANICALLY COMPATABLE.

2004 Volkswagen Jetta questions

Does the 2004 Volkswagen Jetta have any recalls?

Yes. NHTSA lists 2 safety recalls for the 2004 Volkswagen Jetta: Exterior Lighting:Brake Lights:Switch; Fuel System, Diesel. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.

What are the most common problems with the 2004 Volkswagen Jetta?

Based on 231 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Engine And Engine Cooling (39), Electrical System (37), Power Train (36).

How do I check if a recall on my 2004 Volkswagen Jetta has been fixed?

Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.