2004 Volkswagen R32 problems
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Common 2004 Volkswagen R32 problems
Based on the information from the sources provided, here are some common problems with the Volkswagen R32 2004 as reported by owners:
- Leaks: Owners have reported instances of leaks in the Volkswagen R32, which can stem from various sources such as the engine, transmission, cooling system, or even the sunroof. These leaks can result in fluid loss, potential damage to components, and the need for costly repairs if not addressed promptly.
- Bad Bushings: Another prevalent problem with the R32 involves issues with bushings. Faulty or worn-out bushings can affect the car's stability, steering responsiveness, and overall driving experience. Addressing these bushing issues is crucial to maintaining the vehicle's performance and safety on the road.
- Plastic Components: The R32 is prone to problems related to broken plastic components. These issues can range from interior trim pieces to exterior body parts, impacting the car's aesthetics, functionality, and overall appeal. Replacing or repairing these broken plastic parts is essential to keep the vehicle in top condition.
- Premature Strut Bearing Failure: As highlighted in the VW Vortex forum, premature strut bearing failure is a common issue with the R32. This can lead to noise, handling problems, and uneven tire wear, necessitating timely replacement to ensure optimal performance and safety.
- Steering Rack Problems: Owners have reported steering rack issues with the R32. Problems with the steering rack can manifest as steering wheel vibrations, difficulty in steering, or unusual noises while turning. Addressing steering rack problems promptly is crucial for safe and efficient driving.
- MAF Sensor Concerns: The Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor is identified as a potential problem area in the R32. Issues with the MAF sensor can lead to poor engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and even stalling. Regular maintenance and timely replacement of the MAF sensor can help prevent these issues.
These common problems with the Volkswagen R32 2004 highlight the importance of regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and thorough inspections to ensure the vehicle's longevity, performance, and safety on the road.
What are common R32 issues?
Minor electrical problems usually relating to the luxury aspects. In my experience the essential functions of the car are pretty darn Rock solid but things like the navigation, sound system and other more minor electrical issues are what you will more commonly encounter.
Is a 2004 VW R32 rare?
Rarity: Volkswagen made the US-spec R32 numbers very simple. There were 5,000 examples produced for 2004 and the exact same number for 2008 Production Details. The 2004 cars were all 6 speed manual, while all of the 2008 were equipped with VW's excellent dual clutch DSG automatic.
How long does an R32 engine last?
If well maintained the engines are good for 200k.
What is the lifespan of a R32?
R32 has an atmospheric lifetime of less than five years. However, other common kinds of refrigerants like R410A and R11, can stay in the atmosphere for between 17 to 45 years. Aside from R32's environmentally-friendly characteristics, this substance is also known for its general safety.
Is a 2004 VW R32 rare?
Rarity: Volkswagen made the US-spec R32 numbers very simple. There were 5,000 examples produced for 2004 and the exact same number for 2008 Production Details. The 2004 cars were all 6 speed manual, while all of the 2008 were equipped with VW's excellent dual clutch DSG automatic.
How long does an R32 engine last?
If well maintained the engines are good for 200k.
How many 2004 R32 were made?
5,000
Of the 5,000 Mk4 R32s built for the US market, only 150 were finished in Tornado Red with partial-cloth seats, making the car offered here the rarest specification of all.
Is a R32 fuel efficient?
Look at the urban MPG. Quoted at around 18-19 mpg. Realistically that means less than that for mainly short stop/start journeys. Maybe just over 20 with some better steady runs in between.
2004 Volkswagen R32 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volkswagen R32 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
- Tires problems
- Air bags problems
- Seat belts problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2004 Volkswagen R32 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2004 Volkswagen R32 complaints
The NHTSA has received 13 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Volkswagen R32.
2018-04-27
AIR BAGS,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-18
- VIN: WVWKG61J34D
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS
- Summary: THE OUTER SEAT BOLSTER SEAM OF THE DRIVER'S SEAT WHICH RETAINS THE SIDE AIR BAG HAS SPLIT ALONG A LENGTH OF APPROXIMATELY 18 INCHES. I AM CONCERNED THAT THIS WILL ADVERSELY AFFECT THE OPERATION OF THE SIDE AIR BAG SHOULD IT DISCHARGE. IT IS MY UNDERSTANDING THAT THIS IS A NOT UNCOMMON OCCURRENCE ON THIS CAR AND MODEL AS WELL AS MANY OTHERS. THE STRENGTH OF THE THREAD MUST BE SUCH THAT IT WILL PART WHEN REQUIRED TO ALLOW THE SIDE AIR BAG TO PROVIDE PROTECTION BUT NOT BE SO FRAIL THAT IT WILL SPLIT IN NORMAL USE INVOLVING ENTERING AND LEAVING THE SEAT OF THE CAR. EXPERT AUTO UPHOLSTERY TECHNICIANS ARE RELUCTANT TO REPAIR THE SEAT AS THE PROPER THREAD AND STITCH REQUIRED IS NOT CLEAR AND THEY FEAR LIABILITY SHOULD THE SIDE AIR BAG NOT DISCHARGE AS DESIGNED. REPLACING THE SEAT UPHOLSTERY IS PROHIBITIVELY COSTLY.
2013-03-13
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-03-13
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: VW WONT REPLACE A BROKEN SEAT BELT. I HAVE EXTENDED WARRANTY BY FIDELITY AND THEY WONT FIX IT EITHER. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE AND UNACCEPTABLE. THE PASSENGER REAR SEATBELT IS STUCK IN THE EXTENDED POSITION. VW QUOTED $500 TO FIX.. *TR
2012-12-03
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-11-23
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CAR JUST SHUTS OFF WHILE DRIVING. CHECKED ALL SENSORS ARE WORKING PROPERLY. AND NO CAR WONT START. ECU FAULTY, REPROGRAM OR REPLACEMENT NEED. *TR
2011-02-02
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-02-02
- VIN: WVWKG61JX4D
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF R32. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR CENTER SEAT BELTS FAILED AND WERE UNABLE TO RETRACT. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN INSPECTED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND ADVISED HIM THAT THEY WOULD LOOK INTO IT AND CALL THE CONTACT BACK. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 100,600.
2010-05-07
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-01-03
- VIN: WVWKG61J74D
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I BOUGHT A 2004 VOLKSWAGEN R32 AROUND NOVEMBER OF 08 AND ALL WAS OKAY, I NOTICED ONE DAY ABOUT 2 WEEKS LATER WHEN PUTTING MY SEAT ON THE DRIVERS SIDE BACK TO DRIVING POSITION THE AIRBAG FAULT LIGHT CAME ON IMMEDIATELY. I DO KNOW OTHERS THAT THE AIRBAG LIGHT HAS COME ON DUE TO IMPROPER WIRING LENGTH AS WELL (AROUND 12-15 OTHERS ON THE VW R32 FORUMS. WHEN YOU MOVE THE SEAT FORWARDS AND BACKWARDS ENOUGH THE WIRE WILL BECOME TIGHT AND EVENTUALLY PULL OUT OF THE AIRBAG IGNITER. THIS TOPIC IS ON EVERY VOLKSWAGEN FORUM FROM HERE TO GERMANY. OTHER VW'S WITH SEAT AIRBAGS HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM I HAVE DISCOVERED. I HOPE TO HEAR BACK FROM YOU SOON AS I WOULD NOT LIKE TO GET IN AN ACCIDENT AND HAVE THE AIRBAG NOT DEPLOY. I WOULD BE SHOCKED IF VW JUST LET THIS CONTINUE INTO THE FUTURE, THE 2008 R32'S HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM I'VE LEARNED. PLEASE HELP ME!! *TR
2008-12-31
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-23
- VIN: WVWKG61J64D
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: SERVICE BULLETIN # 004, NHTSA NUMBER 10011567, FAILURE OF ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE SENSOR AT 43,500 MILES. ENGINE NEVER WARMED TO OPERATING TEMPERATURE OF 87 DEGREES, OPENED THERMOSTAT AT 75 DEGREES.*TR
2008-07-15
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-07-13
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WVWKG61J14D
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ON JULY 13, 2008 WHILE DRIVING MY 2004 VOLKWAGEN R32 I NOTICED THAT THE CAR WAS DRIVING REALLY ROUGH AFTER I MADE AN EXIT FROM THE EXPRESSWAY WHEN I MADE IT TO A COMPLETE STOP I NOTICED THE SMELL OF ELECTRICAL/PLASTIC FIRE. I PULLED INTO A PARKING SPOT AND OBSERVED SMOKE COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. I OPENED THE HOOD AND SMOKE AND FLAMES WERE COMING FROM THE CENTER OF THE ENGINE AREA I WAS ABLE TO EXTINGUISH THE FLAMES BEFORE IT SPREAD. THE DEVICE THAT WAS CAUSING THE FIRE IS CALLED A COIL PACK. THIS IS THE FIRST TIME THIS HAS HAPPENED TO ME. I TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER TO HAVE IT REPAIRED. I DID KEEP THE OLD PARTS AND TOOK PHOTOS OF THE DAMAGE. THE DEALER REPAIRED THE BURNT COIL PACK CONNECTOR HOWEVER THEY DID NOT HAVE THE ACTUAL COIL PACK TO REPLACE THE DAMAGED ONE. I WAS ABLE TO LOCATE A REPLACEMENT OEM THROUGH A DIFFERENT PARTS RETAILER. THE DEALER CHARGED ME TO REPAIR THE BURNED CONNECTOR AS MY CAR IS NO LONGER UNDER WARRANTY. *TR
2007-12-28
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTURE,TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-05-29
- VIN: WVGZC67L74D
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTURE,TIRES
- Summary: I PURCHASED THE CAR IN NOV 2006 AND SINCE THEN HAD NUMEROUS PROBLEMS WITH THE CAR, RIGHT FORM THE START. TIRE PRESSURE LIGHT WAS ON FOR 10 MONTHS, UNABLE TO FIX, REMOTE GARAGE OPENER NOT WORKING PROPERLY, REMOTE CONTROL DOESN'T OPEN THE CAR, BACK DOOR DOESN'T OPEN AT ALL, ONE OF THE STUDS UNDERNEATH BROKE ON FREEWAY GOING TO LAS VEGAS, ENGINE LIGHT ON, CAR OVERHEATING. *TR
2007-08-20
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN,TIRES,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-07-14
- VIN: WVWKG61J34D
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN,TIRES,WHEELS
- Summary: PLEASE SEE THIS LINK FOR VEHICLE PROBLEM DESCRIPTIONS. HTTP://WWW.RIPOFFREPORT.COM/VIEW.ASP?ID=266231. *TR
2007-05-01
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-03-05
- VIN: WVWKG61J74D
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CAR: 2004 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF R32 WHINNING NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL. ALOT OF VOLKSWAGEN R32 OWNERS ARE STARTING TO HEAR A WHINE FROM THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL, USUALLY ON DECELERATION OR LIFTING OFF OF THE GAS PEDAL. WE COMMUNICATE WITH EACH OTHER THROUGH A VW ENTHUSIAST FORUM. THE MAJORITY OF US WHO ENCOUNTER THIS NOISE HAVE CHECKED AND CHANGED OUR REAR DIFFERENTIAL FLUIDS AND HAVE FOUND THAT OUR FLUID IS LOW FROM THE FACTORY!! THE CAPACITY OF OUR REAR DIFFERENTIALS IS 1 LITER, PER SPECIFICATIONS. MOST OF US HAVE FOUND WHEN DRAINING THE DIFFERENTIAL, THAT ONLY 1 CUP DRAINS OUT, SOME EVEN HAVE FOUND THAT THE DIFFERENTIAL IS NOT FILLED AT ALL!! AFTER FILLING WITH NEW AND PROPER FLUID THE WHINE STILL IS HEARD. PLEASE SEND SOMETHING OUT! I WOULD HATE TO SEE SOME ONE GET INJURED DUE TO A FAILED REAR DIFFERENTIAL ON THE VEHICLE. POSSIBLE LOCK UP DUE TO HEATING AND WELDING OF THE GEARS CAN HAPPEN DUE TO LACK OF FLUID! *TR
2005-12-05
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-12-05
- VIN: WVGBC67L84D
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: MALFUNCTIONING TIRE PRESSURE MONITOR SYSTEM FOR 18 MONTHS, FREQUENTLY MALFUNCTIONS ON THE WAY HOME FROM THE DEALERSHIP. EIGHT TO NINE SERVICE ATTEMPTS WITH NO RESOLUTION. HAVE DRIVEN THE CAR FOR 3 MONTHS AT A TIME WITH THE FLAT TIRE MONITOR SCREAMING LOUDLY. A PROBLEM SINCE 2 MONTHS AFTER PURCHASE. *JB
2005-10-24
VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-08-15
- VIN: WVWKG61J74D
- Components: VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE
- Summary: DT: THE CONSUMER STATED THAT THE REARVIEW MIRROR SHOOK TO THE POINT THAT HE COULD NOT SEE THROUGH IT. WHENEVER THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION THE REARVIEW MIRROR WOULD SHAKE. WHEN GOING OVER A BUMPS THE PROBLEM WOULD GET WORSE. THIS PROBLEM HAS OCCURRED SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED. *AK (11/22/05) ALSO, THE DOORS WOULD SQUEAK. *SC
2004-10-27
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-13
- Crash: 1
- VIN: WVWKG61J34D
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: ROUNDING A STREET CORNER THE RIGHT FRONT SUSPENSION FAILED CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO HIT THE CURB. VEHICLE WAS TRAVELLING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH. THIS VEHICLE, PURCHASED NEW, HAS LESS THAN 7000 MILES. DAMAGES APPROACH $3000.00 AND IS CURRENTLY IN THE DEALER REPAIR SHOP.*AK
2004 Volkswagen R32 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2004 Volkswagen R32.
2007-03-29
- Manufacturer: CARDONE INDUSTRIES, INC.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
- Summary: CERTAIN CARDONE MASTER CYLINDERS WITH PART NUMBERS 10-2925, 10-2987, 10-2987MZA, 10-3083, 11-3015, 11-3042, 11-3044, 11-3045, 11-3047, 11-3064, AND 11-3156, AND WITH DATE CODES LOWER THAN DCA7078 SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE SEAL ON MASTER CYLINDER CAN FAIL AND LEAK BRAKE FLUID.
- Consequence: LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID CAN RESULT IN POOR BRAKING PERFORMANCE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: CARDONE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE ANY DEFECTIVE MASTER CYLINDERS. THE RECALL BEGAN DURING APRIL 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT CARDONE AT 1-800-777-4780.
2007-02-20
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER, WAGON, AND CONVERTIBLE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH OR WITHOUT CRUISE CONTROL, A BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH MAY MALFUNCTION IF IT WAS INSTALLED INCORRECTLY.
- Consequence: THE BRAKE LIGHTS COULD BECOME INOPERATIVE, OR REMAIN ON. FAILURE TO PROVIDE THE PROPER SIGNAL WHEN BRAKING COULD LEAD TO A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL THE NEWLY DESIGNED BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 27, 2007, AND WILL BE CONDUCTED IN SEVERAL STAGGERED MAILINGS THROUGH SEPTEMBER 21, 2007. VEHICLES WITHIN THE MAKE, MODEL, AND MODEL YEAR OF THIS POPULATION MAY BE INVOLVED IN EITHER THIS RECALL OR 06V-183, BUT NOT BOTH. THE REMEDY IS THE SAME FOR EACH RECALL. VOLKSWAGEN DEALERS WILL APPLY THE REMEDY BASED ON THE VIN NUMBER OF THE VEHICLE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VW AT 1-800-822-8987.
Positive 2004 Volkswagen R32 car reviews
Other years of Volkswagen R32
Are you having problems with your 2004 Volkswagen R32?
Christian Bosco 2024-11-29
I'm so glad you had a chance to test drive this car! It's definitely impressive. While it may not be the fastest car out there, it was built with safety and speed in mind, reaching up to 155 MPH. As a VW enthusiast, I can confidently say that this car beats out the competition with its refined interior and agility. Unlike some other cars, the R32 provides full torque at just 3,200 rpm, making it a joy to drive. Plus, the V6 engine can easily be upgraded with drop-in supercharger/turbocharger kits, making it a force to be reckoned with on the road!
Bill Abernathy 2024-11-02
I've had several VWs, but this R32 is by far the best I have ever owned.
Fern Sipes 2024-10-17
Just do the scheduled service and your car will run smoothly. You may need some tuning and modifications to get it running exactly as you want it to. Trust me, once you take it for a spin, you'll fall in love with it! =)
Theron Schmeler 2024-10-10
I've had this car for over 1 1/2 years and it is just as much of a blast as when I first bought it. In my opinion, it's the best all-rounder for the money. The power is very good with lots of torque. While the stock handling is quite good, a few suspension modifications can turn it into a 'car on rails'.
Peter Feil 2024-10-03
No complaints. Eighth new VW, car is everything I had hoped for. 4-motion and engine are great. 6-speed seems to be very close ratio (in 1st thru 4th) and is a delight with a nice light clutch. Love the interior. Exhaust note is enhanced by removing vacuum line which controls a diverter valve by the rear muffler, awesome!! Brakes are excellent, suspension is just right for street use.