2004 Volkswagen R32 recalls and problems

The 2004 Volkswagen R32 has 1 safety recall and 13 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Volkswagen dealer.

Recalls
1
Complaints
13
Crashes / fires
1 / 1
Injuries / deaths
0 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2004 Volkswagen R32 vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2004 Volkswagen R32 recalls

Recall 07V-063: Exterior Lighting

Reported Feb 20, 2007 · 1,002,000 vehicles affected · VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC

Problem: On certain passenger, wagon, and convertible vehicles equipped with or without cruise control, a brake light switch may malfunction if it was installed incorrectly.

Risk: The brake lights could become inoperative, or remain on. Failure to provide the proper signal when braking could lead to a crash without warning.

Fix: 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.

2004 Volkswagen R32 problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Tires3
Power Train3
Engine and Engine Cooling3
Structure2
Electrical System2
Air Bags2
Seat Belts2
Suspension1
Visibility1
Wheels1
Fuel System, Gasoline1
Exterior Lighting1

Most reported parts

  • Tires › Pressure Monitoring and Regulating Systems — 2
  • Suspension › Front › Control Arm — 1
  • Structure › Body › Door — 1
  • Visibility › Rearview Mirrors/Devices — 1
  • Power Train › Driveline › Differential Unit — 1
  • Wheels › Rim — 1
  • Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump — 1
  • Power Train › Clutch Assembly — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 61,000 miles (median of owner reports).

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2004 Volkswagen R32 complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Air Bags · at 75,000 miles · reported Apr 27, 2018
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…
Seat Belts · reported Mar 13, 2013
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..
Electrical System · at 89,568 miles · reported Dec 3, 2012
Car just shuts off while driving. Checked all sensors are working properly. And no car wont start. Ecu faulty, reprogram or replacement need.
Seat Belts · at 100,600 miles · reported Feb 2, 2011
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.
Air Bags · at 28,250 miles · reported May 7, 2010
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…

Other Volkswagen R32 years

Compare all Volkswagen R32 years · All Volkswagen models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2004 Volkswagen R32 have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2004 Volkswagen R32: 07V-063 (exterior lighting). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2004 Volkswagen R32?

Owners report tires problems most often (3 reports), followed by power train (3). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 61,000 miles.

Are Volkswagen recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Volkswagen dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.