Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Mondeo (Europe), Opel Vectra (Europe), BMW 3 Series (entry-level trims), Mercedes-Benz C-Class (entry-level trims).
Key Features
Value Proposition:
European build quality, comfortable ride, refined interior, available all-wheel drive (4Motion), strong engine options.
Software Advantage:
Instant access, searchability, zoomable diagrams, often includes interactive elements or multimedia (not specified but typical for advanced software).
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plugs, timing belt intervals), belt tensioner replacement.
Repair:
Step-by-step disassembly, assembly, and repair for major components.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trees for common drivability and electrical issues.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs (e.g., timing belt tools, diagnostic interfaces).
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Optional 4Motion all-wheel-drive system ( Haldex coupling based).
Fluid Specs
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
G 055 025 (Tiptronic) or equivalent ATF.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
G 052 171 (or G 052 512 for newer specs) Gear Oil.
๐ Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 189.4 inches (4811 mm)
Width:
Approx. 71.2 inches (1808 mm)
Height:
Approx. 56.9 inches (1445 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 109.6 inches (2785 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Approx:
3200 - 3700 lbs (1450 - 1680 kg) depending on engine/drivetrain.
๐ก๏ธ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
โ โ โ โ โ (4 Stars)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
โ โ โ โ โ (4 Stars)
IIHS Front Small Overlap 2004:
Not Rated (Vehicle class not tested extensively for this specific test in 2004)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS) / Electronic Stability Program (ESP) on some models.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, available rear side airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners, height adjusters.
๐ก Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory premium audio systems often available, including Monsoon branded units. AM/FM radio, CD player, cassette player (early models).
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trims.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Parking Sensors:
Available rear parking sensors on some models.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Typically not standard; aftermarket solutions or CD changers for audio input.
Lighting
Headlights:
Halogen projector headlights; Xenon (HID) headlights were an option on higher trims or specific packages.
๐ง Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-10,000 miles (8,000-16,000 km) or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (consult manual for specific intervals).
Timing Belt Interval:
Typically 60,000-105,000 miles (96,000-168,000 km) for gasoline engines, or based on time (e.g., 5-7 years). Crucial for 1.8T and VR6 models. TDI models use timing chains or belts depending on engine code.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
VW 502.00 or VW 504.00 specification synthetic oil (e.g., 5W-40, 0W-30 depending on climate and engine). Consult manual.
Coolant Type:
G 12 Plus (Pink) Antifreeze/Coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4.
Known Issues
Common Problems 1.8T:
Oil sludge buildup (requires diligent maintenance), coil pack failure, PCV system issues, turbocharger oil line leaks, coolant flange leaks.
Common Problems Vr6:
Coolant leaks (thermostat housing, water pump, coolant flanges), ignition coil failures, camshaft position sensors.
Common Problems General:
Window regulator failures, mass airflow sensor (MAF) issues, exhaust manifold leaks, climate control blower motor resistor failure, ABS sensor failures, suspension component wear (control arms, tie rods).
Recommended Parts
Timing Belt Kit Part Number:
Example: Gates TCKWP325 (includes belt, tensioner, idler, water pump - verify for specific engine code).
Oil Filter Part Number:
Example: Mann-Filter HU816Z, Mahle OX154/1DE (verify for specific engine code).
๐ Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Volkswagen Heritage:
Founded in 1937, known for mass-market, durable, and often innovative vehicles like the Beetle and Golf.
Model Evolution
Passat Generations:
The 2004 model is part of the B5.5 generation, an update to the B5 platform introduced in 1997. Known for its upscale styling and refinement compared to previous generations.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary manufacturing in Emden, Germany; also assembled in other VW plants globally.
๐ Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Wards 2004 Rankings:
Consistently ranked as a strong contender in its class for refinement, comfort, and build quality by automotive publications like Car and Driver, MotorTrend.
Initial Quality Rankings:
While VW generally improved, specific model rankings could vary. The B5.5 Passat was generally viewed as well-built but could have electrical nuances that impacted initial quality perception compared to segment leaders.