Five problems related to engine cooling system have been reported for the 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2004 Volkswagen Jetta based on all problems reported for the 2004 Jetta.
Both radiator fans failed simultaneously, causing car to overheat and stop almost instantaneously in hot weather. Car only has 55k miles on it and has been properly maintained. Both radiator fans were replaced.
Car began to stutter and shake like it was running out of gas. Shortly after I had an epc light that would flash on every time I got up to speed and it would start the stuttering sound again. After several costly trips to dealership they discovered it was a coolant migration problem. Where a defective part that vw knows about leaks coolant in to the wire harness. Coolant can migrate throughout all electrical routes throughout the car. This has been a problem since 1998 and vw will not do a recall or reimburse for the work. If you have electrical problems with your vw this is most likely the cause. We have also had problems with taillights blowing very frequently. This can be a cause of coolant migrating through the wires.
Clutch failed at 52k miles, was told it was not covered under warrant due to wear and tear, mechanic deemed it a faulty part, vw said it only covered manufacturer defects up to 50k miles, paid $1500 to replace clutch. Trunk pops open randomly and latch makes clicking noises. Air cooling sensor needs to be replaced, my car is reading a running temp of -54 when it should be 160. Car stalls if I turn it off after driving more than a few miles then doesn't turn over if the engine cuts off. Black smoke pours out of tailpipe and it burns double the gas it should. Luckily they extended the factory warranty on the sensor last week and it can be fixed for free at a vw dealership only.
Car is loosing coolant with no external leakage. Many people are reporting egr cooler failures. Vw needs to have a recall and address this issue.
There was found to be a coolant leak caused by the egr (exhaust gas recirculator?). Coolant level dropped to the point that car began overheating. I havae looked on vw web forums and many owners have had a similar incident. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta tdi.