2004 Volkswagen Phaeton problems
The Volkswagen Phaeton ( /ˈfeɪtən/ FAY-tən) (Typ 3D) is a full-size sedan/saloon manufactured by the German automobile manufacturer Volkswagen, described by Volkswagen as their "premium class" vehicle. Introduced at the 2002 Geneva Motor Show, the Phaeton was marketed worldwide. Sales in North America ended in 2006 and global sales ended in 2016.
The name Phaeton derives from Phaëton, the son of Phoebus (or Helios) in Greek mythology, by way of the phaeton auto body style and the type of horse-drawn carriage that preceded it.
Production ended in March 2016 and an all-electric second generation was slated to be produced. Starting in April 2017, the Gläserne Manufaktur Dresden began assembling the e-Golf instead.
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Common 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton, several common problems have been reported:
- Electrical Problems: Some owners have reported various electrical issues, impacting different components like the climate control system, power windows, and navigation system. These problems can manifest as failures in heating or cooling the cabin, malfunctioning fans, stuck or faulty windows, and inaccurate display or directions from the navigation system. Resolving these issues may involve repairing or replacing affected components.
- Air Suspension System Malfunctions: Another common problem involves the air suspension system, which can fail or malfunction, affecting the ride quality or causing the vehicle to sit lower than normal. Repairing or replacing the affected parts of the suspension system is necessary to address this issue.
These common problems with the 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to any emerging issues to ensure the optimal performance and longevity of the vehicle.
Why did the VW Phaeton fail?
The Phaeton had very serious maintenance and repair issues, seemed to have had an abnormal number of expensive problems. Too bad, it was a nice c ar. Buyers won't buy a luxury car with a non luxury badge.
Are VW Phaeton rare?
But what made this Phaeton even more special was its exclusivity. Believe it or not, only 24 of these beauties were ever allowed to hit the roads.
Does VW Phaeton have timing belt or chain?
The 4.2 liter 40 valve V8 engine was used in several VW Phaeton and Touareg models. The 40V V8 engine is driven by a timing belt system which links the cylinder heads, camshafts, and crankshaft to run in sync.
What is the mileage of the VW Phaeton?
12.8 kmpl
Volkswagen Phaeton Mileage
The claimed ARAI mileage for the automatic variants: Volkswagen Phaeton Petrol is 12.8 kmpl.
Why did the VW Phaeton fail?
The Phaeton had very serious maintenance and repair issues, seemed to have had an abnormal number of expensive problems. Too bad, it was a nice c ar. Buyers won't buy a luxury car with a non luxury badge.
Does VW Phaeton have timing belt or chain?
The 4.2 liter 40 valve V8 engine was used in several VW Phaeton and Touareg models. The 40V V8 engine is driven by a timing belt system which links the cylinder heads, camshafts, and crankshaft to run in sync.
Are VW Phaeton rare?
But what made this Phaeton even more special was its exclusivity. Believe it or not, only 24 of these beauties were ever allowed to hit the roads.
What was the luxury car failure of Volkswagen?
Few people wanted to buy a money-no-object luxury car wearing a Volkswagen badge on the nose. The Phaeton turned out to be the best engineered failure in motoring history. Two decades of hindsight prove that both the Phaeton and the A-class were a step too far.
2004 Volkswagen Phaeton car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volkswagen Phaeton problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Structure problems
- Suspension problems
- Electrical system problems
- Steering problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2004 Volkswagen Phaeton complaints
The NHTSA has received 4 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-03
- VIN: WVWAF63D448
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
- Summary: TRUNK EMERGENCY ESCAPE/ENTRAPMENT PREVENTION HANDLE NOT WORKING DUE TO DEFECTIVE TRUNK WIRING HARNESS. ONLY APPLIES TO VEHICLES WITH AUTOMATIC TRUNK.
STEERING,SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1901-01-01
- VIN: WVWAH63D448
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 2004 VOLKSWAGEN PHAETON WITH FAULTY TORQUE CONVERTER. *KB THE CONSUMER STATED HE HAD TO PAY FOR A $3,00 DOLLAR REPAIR ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE FENDER WHICH WAS CAUSED BY THE HESITATION OF THE CONVERTER ENGAGING. THE CONSUMER STATED HE EXPERIENCED PROBLEMS WITH THE VEHICLE FOR THREE YEARS AND NEVER COULD FIND OUT WHAT THE PROBLEMS WERE CAUSED BY. HE FINALLY HAD AN INDEPENDENT ELECTRONIC CHECK DONE AND THE PROBLEMS WERE AS FOLLOWS; THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WAS ON AT ALL TIMES. THE OXYGEN SENSORS WERE REPLACED, BUT THE LIGHT ILLUMINATED AGAIN. THE ESP LIGHT ILLUMINATED AFTER ABOUT 10 MINUTES OF DRIVING AND THE ESP SWITCH WOULD NOT TURN OFF THE LIGHT. HE ALSO COMPLAINED FOR YEARS, THAT WHEN HE TURNED LEFT OR RIGHT TOO FAST OR FROM A COMPLETE STOP, THE ENGINE WOULD HESITATE . THE CONSUMER WAS TOLD THAT WAS NORMAL BETWEEN FIRST AND SECOND GEARS. THE INTERNAL OIL SEAL FAILURE CAUSED THE PROBLEMS. A SERVICE BULLETIN WAS ISSUED, BUT THE CONSUMER WAS NEVER INFORMED OF THE PROBLEM. THE RIGHT REAR UPPER CONTROL ARM WAS REPLACED. THE STEERING WHEEL HAD TO BE RE-ALIGNED. COOLANT WAS LEAKING FROM THE RADIATOR. *JB UPDATED 06/08/10.*JB
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-08-17
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: 2004 VW PHAETON TRUNK WIRE HOUSING - THE SLEEVE OVER THE WIRE HOUSING CAME OFF AND THEN THE PLASTIC TUBE THAT COVERS THE WIRES BROKE AWAY FROM THE JOINT THAT ENABLES THE WIRES TO COMPRESS BACK INTO THE TRUNK LID WHEN IT IS CLOSED. WHEN HAVING MY TIRES ROTATED THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT CLOSED THE TRUNK LID BUT THE PLASTIC TUBE WAS CAUGHT BETWEEN METAL AND REAR GLASS SHIELD. THE GLASS BROKE AND WAS REPLACE. 2 WEEKS LATER, WHILE HAVING THE 80,000 MILE SERVICE THE TECHNICIAN CLOSED THE TRUNK AND AGAIN THE PLASTIC PIECE WAS CAUGHT AND THE REAR GLASS BROKE. DEALER ESTIMATE TO "FIX" IS $1,300 BUT IT SEEMS LIKE A PRODUCT DEFECT. INTERNET BLOGS AND POSTING SUGGEST A WIDESPREAD PROBLEM AND VW ISSUED A TECHNICAL BULLETIN TO DEALERS ON HOW TO "FIX" - TECHNICAL BULLETIN (TB) NUMBER 97-04-07. *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-03-01
- VIN: WVWAH63D748
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: CONTROL ARM GASKETS CORRODED ON ALL UPPER AND LOWER CONTROL ARMS LEADING TO METAL ON METAL. *TR
Negative 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton car reviews
Positive 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton car reviews
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This car is arguably one of the best made. Unfortunately, the brand's inhibitive nature has hindered its success. However, for those who do their research and are not stuck on brand image, it would be difficult to find a better option. The workmanship and attention to detail are superior to that of Lexus or S-Class. While the exterior may be plain, I personally appreciate the ability to go anywhere 'incognito'. The road manners are second to none, with the car being glued to the road and the ride being comfortable, while still providing plenty of smooth power. The interior is incredibly quiet, and the wood and dash, along with the 'indirect' climate system, are fantastic. At 80 mph, you can literally hear a pin drop. Overall, this car is an excellent choice for those who value quality and performance over brand image.
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The Phaeton has an excellent drive and ride. I love all of its bells and whistles. Thanks to Bentley's design, this car will always be in vogue. Bentley has a way of determining styling that will last. I was a little concerned when I learned that they were no longer making this model, but it could help its value in the long run. I was most surprised by the acceleration and top speed. The 6-speed transmission and smooth ride enable you to cruise effortlessly at high speeds. Its fuel economy was another pleasant surprise. I have had Cadillacs, Jaguars, and Mercedes, but this car surpasses them all.
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I have driven many luxury cars, but this one is definitely the best value for money! While there are more expensive cars out there, they don't offer anything that justifies their price tag compared to the VW. This car is truly awesome! To quote Ferris Bueller, 'It is so choice, if you have the means, I highly recommend picking one up.'
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I love this vehicle! There is no question that it rides, performs, and handles better than the BMW 745Li and Mercedes-Benz S500 4matic, hands down. That's why I just purchased one for 70k. You get a lot for your money. So, if you're in this price level, go out and take a look at one. It might be a VW, but this is a world-class car and, in my opinion, the leader of the pack.
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If you're considering purchasing a Phaeton, I highly recommend test driving one at your local VW dealer. In my experience, the Phaeton outperforms its so-called competitors, such as the Infinity Q45 and other 'luxury' vehicles like the Lexus 400 series. In fact, the Phaeton is designed to compete with top-of-the-line models like the S Class Mercedes and BMW 700, and it not only holds its own against these vehicles, but surpasses them in many ways. For more detailed information, please refer to the comparison chart in the Phaeton's brochure/manual.
Other years of Volkswagen Phaeton
Are you having problems with your 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton?
Kevon Block 2025-05-11
My first experience with a Volkswagen has been a mixed bag. Despite the electrical issues I have experienced, the handling, acceleration, and performance have been exceptional. The car has more than lived up to its engineering reputation. Although there have been some challenges with the car's sensors indicating overheating when it isn't, and the occasional dashboard electrical system freeze, I remain confident in the car's overall quality. While the issues have been frustrating, I trust that Volkswagen will address them in due course. This car has a lot of potential!
Andrew Block 2024-06-01
Great car to drive long distances. It's extremely comfortable.