2004 Volkswagen Phaeton: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton: 0 recalls, 4 owner complaints and up to 16 mpg combined.
There isn't much public data on the 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton yet, so we start with what helps most: the repair manual options.
Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.
Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton.
Closest thing to the factory manual for most years. Pay once, keep it.
Most $25–$78, one-timePro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.
From $19.99/mo · $39.99/yrOEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.
From $19.99/mo · $59.99/yrStep-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.
Books ~$30–$40 · AllAccess $34.99/moHeads up: we may earn a commission if you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you. Prices checked 2026-10 and can change. We never host or link to pirated manuals. Disclosure
Recalls
No recalls on file for this model year. Still worth a VIN check.
Most-reported problems
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA, by component. One complaint can list several components. 0 mention a fire, 0 injuries and 0 deaths were reported.
What owners describe
- Body & structure (2): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Suspension (2): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Transmission & drivetrain (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Steering (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
The 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton has 4 owner complaints, ranking #1 of 3 Phaeton model years for complaints (1.7× the average Phaeton year). Neighboring years: 2005 (1 complaints, 0 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4.2 L 8-cyl | Automatic (S6) | 4-Wheel or All-Wheel Drive | 14 | 21 | 16 | Premium |
| 6.0 L 12-cyl | Automatic (S5) | 4-Wheel or All-Wheel Drive | 11 | 17 | 13 | Premium |
FAQ
Does the 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton have any recalls?
NHTSA doesn't list any vehicle recalls for the 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to be sure.
What are the most common 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton problems?
Owners have filed 4 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are body & structure (2), suspension (2), transmission & drivetrain (1).
What gas mileage does the 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton get?
EPA ratings run up to 16 mpg combined (4.2 L, Automatic (S6)), across 2 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton repair manual?
eManualOnline sells downloadable manuals, Mitchell 1 DIY and ALLDATAdiy sell online access to factory repair data, and Haynes sells printed guides and online access. Pick a download if you want to keep it, or a subscription for wiring diagrams and TSBs.