Used 2003 Volkswagen Jetta Consumer Reviews
Used Jetta for sale
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Pretty Good Car
lipstik, 03/26/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLI VR6 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had my car for @ 4 mos. & although the car looks good and is fun to drive i have already had to take it to the dealership twice for repairs. Both complaints have been due to car not wanting to start & then when it decides to start black smoke comes out of the tailpipes & it sounds like it is putting. Sometimes, at a stop, the car just dies. The dealership said they couldn't find a prob? Makes me very suspicious. Since the last visit to the dealership, the car has been ok.
Good Buy
orodavid, 09/29/2006
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is very comfotable, reliable, and fun to drive. It has good interior materials. Its Moonson stereo system is great considering that it is factory installed. I have had a few of problems with the electrical system, but no major problems. I am very satisfied with the purchase and recommend this car to all European cars lovers.
2003 Volkswagen Jetta for sale near you
Showing 3 of 18 listings
- GLS TDI Diesel SedanMSRP: $7,50083 mi away
- GLMSRP: $6,490338 mi away
- GL SedanMSRP: $3,855445 mi away
See all 18 listings
good car
Jim in Mass, 10/02/2002
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
have only had it 6 weeks and am very satisfied. The dealer was great. The car is likeable and fun to drive. The car feels like more expensive cars that i've owned. The car is quiet on the highway and comfortable to drive for hours at a time.
Awesome Car!
mrcleano, 07/21/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've driven nothing but Mercury Grand Marquis and needed a smaller city car with enough power to not make me regret trading in a V8 4.6 liter engine. To my surprise, the 1.8T had perfect power and was right in my low 20K price range. I bought it in Platinum Gray with Monsoon, Cold Package, ESP. I've driven it for over 6000 miles and consider it to be the best car on the market because for a reasonable price you get a ton of options along with 4- cylinder that drives like a V-6. There's no need for a VR6 unless you want ALL the features, but at their price, I'd just buy an A4.
Honda man for years, VW has won me over
benarcher, 03/31/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Who knew such a little car had so much heart? This is my first new car, and I can't get enough of driving it. Hondas are a thing of the past for me.
The Jetta
jeany, 11/08/2006
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this little car. I drive over 65 miles one way to work and the gas mileage has been awesome. I think the car is really classy. This is the first time I have ever owned a VW and I would buy another.
Power, Style, Price... VW ROCKS!
arvissers, 07/20/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Car Description: Alaska Green, Beige Leather, Monsoon System, Rear Spoiler, 17" Alloy Wheels and Sport Suspension, Cold Weather Package, Power Sunroof, & 5 Speed Manual. Car Review: A blast to drive, test drove a GLI and a 1.8T and was hard to justify the X- tra $3 G's for the V-6. Go with the manual to fullt see the fruits of the turbo, also the 17" alloy wheels and sport suspension really does make a difference in terms of looks and handling. Alaska Green isn't a color I see too often up here, so the car stands out in all of the Reflex Silver and Black Jetta's we pull up next to.
Leave Gas Station Behind
martok, 04/01/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL TDI 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my Jetta! The Jetta is fun to drive, has excellent fuel economy, (44- 51 mpg, up to 700 miles/tank) is good looking, and reliable. I have personally driven this vehicle about 5000 miles, and I am impressed with the precision in the steering, along with the overall maneuverability.
Great car! Just keeps going, going.....
Christine92001, 07/21/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great fuel economy car! People are amazed, they say they didnt know VW made a Deisel car! Its sporty, fun to drive and keeps going going going and going! We fuel it maybe twice a month and we drive it alot!! Highly recommend this car to anyone who does alot of driving!
GLB
gary leblanc, 04/02/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
cramp in the back seat cramp in front seat to let backspace for back passenger. front bumper will break if you hit hard snow in winter...protection panel under motor falls apart in winter...this is a really bad design to reduce noise and protect components (compressor, belts)from snow. If you live where you have winter...be prepare to pay for broken plastic parts around bumper...car is to low. Window will fall from tracks...You will freeze driving to the dealer to get this fix.
Turbo Boost
gni55, 04/06/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I alwasy liked the Jetta and finally bought one. The turbo engine is going to get me in trouble it accelerates quickly. The body styling is clean and very european. The interrior is functional and comfortable. Roomy up front cramped in back. For me it is perfect I seldom have passingers anyway. Very fun to drive.
2002 Jetta GLS (5M)
Xjet, 03/30/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Despite some negative feedback from a few owners, my vehicle has been very reliable. Power is outstanding on the 1.8 Turbo, with fuel efficiency second to none. Build quality is excellent, inside and out. I am very satisfied with this vehicle and recommend it highly.
Don't do it
Boardwalk, 04/07/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta Wolfsburg Edition 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Our car has only 27,000 miles on it and it has been in the shop constantly. I hope you don't have the misfortune of owning a Jetta
Overall College Car
ryan57us2009, 01/29/2009
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had my Jetta for almost two years. I tried to drift once but I forgot I had a FWD so I smashed a curb costing me 2,500 $!!! I love switching into step-tronic or w/e its called to give that extra kick of acceleration. Great on gas but It is a girl car so society says but w/e. Really interesting bass in the car too! never thought my Jetta would be bumping bass that good.
I Guess I Got the Good One
Ryflo77, 07/29/2010
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
So far, I have not had any major problems with this car unlike others that seemed to have lemons. I've only had to replace the spark plugs (40k), water pump (60k), and timing belt (60k). However, this is standard maintenance for Volkswagen cars. The interior lighting is amazing in this car. It feels like I'm flying an airplane at night! I agree that this car is not built for a tall person b/c there is little room in the back nor the front, but I'm only 5'5", So its perfect for me. The turbo is great in this car. It never hesitates when you punch it. Guess I got the good one.
There is no alternative
moo, 08/23/2002
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Amazing what 4 cyl, turbo, and German engineers can do. As former engineer, am picky. Found attention to detail superior to any other. Every inch has purpose. For 03 they smartly combined savings of GL int. with performance of 1.8T. Engine has economy of 4 cyl. but pep of turbo. Was willing to give up leather/sunroof for 1.8T. With stick, it flies. Amazingly, the "base" interior LOADED. ANY other brand in base interior would leave you with deficit in comfort or performance - requiring extra $ in aftermarket improvements.
03 Jetta
Lmadden, 08/06/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had my Jetta for one month and two days, it has been at the dealer three times for five seperate issues. If you are looking for a reliable car, do not buy a jetta, rather buy a jetta if you like the look and feel of luxury at a economic price. Mine is black with black interior, but its getting traded in this week already for a different car....I got a lemon...
Great little car
oldyeller556677, 07/21/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Picked up my Jetta TDI in late June. Great little car. My new job is putting me at 30000 miles/year. I was driving a 2000 E150 conversion van. The fuel savings alone will cover almost half my payment!!! I'm hitting 44 mpg just scooting around town - I can now see why everybody says they blow by 50 mpg highway with these.
I am screwed
judeboscure96, 10/28/2002
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have a 2002 1.8t. While I have no complaints with the handling of the car I am concerned about its reliability. I have had to have a linkage replaced on the tiptronic transmission. My monsoon stere system kept shutting itself off or wouldn't go on at all. The finish on the drivers door handle has all but peeled off. The cup holder is a mess and whats with no cupholders in the back seat at all? The A/C is anemic. My first VW and my last.
Yipee
sophie, 04/04/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
What a great car! The power and pick up are unbelievable. A very smooth ride for a smaller car. The interior lights top it all off. I also love the heated cloth seats.
50mpg and Fun-to-Drive
flash9, 07/22/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Purchased the VW TDI Wagon at the end of June. As of July 20th it already has 2,250 miles on the car. It has averaged just shy of 50mpg on mostly highway miles. It is fun to be driving a stick shift again, and the low end torque of a diesel in amazing! The car is very nicely equipped for a $20k car.
Should be a Ford fix and repair daily
THILDRETH, 06/03/2008
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Constant repairs only 20,000 miles and most of that to repair shop been towed three times now the Windows fell out looks good just needs lots of glue and bumper to bumper for life would not recommend this car.
Driver Found!
sonkota4, 07/23/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my Jetta. It runs good, it looks good and it feels good.
Love my Jetta
Harmony, 04/08/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Fun is the operative word. What a pleasure to drive. The interior is a little cramped, but it handles like a sports car and does have room for four. No rattles or funny noises, but have experienced small nuisances such as burnt out tail light and windshield wipers that need adjustment too often. Decent gas mileage, but it uses premium fuel. Bottom line, I'd buy it again - love the car!
Excellent Car
ewthomp, 04/11/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Wow, what a fun car to drive. I have had this beauty for 4 months now and have put 4500 miles on it. I love every bit about it. I have never owned a VW till now, and I don't think I will ever change.
A costly piece of junk
A german quality fan, 10/11/2002
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Jetta has lot of mechanical problems. We bought ours(brand new) in march 2002.Since then it has been in the dealers workshop 7 times for repairs. The car did really well for the first 2000-2500 miles. After these initial miles it has given us all sort of problems. It started with door rattling, followed by the left view mirror cracking, followed by complete failure of the audio system 2 times in a row(within 10 days) . Yesterday the drivers side window fell into the door and won't go up. Guys, think twice before buying this car.
Just drive it.
CBass, 07/23/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
All you have to do is drive this car, seriously. I went from hell bent to owning a WRX to driving off the lot 20 min. after I sat behind the wheel. It balances perfectlly comfort and performance. It's almost uncanny how weel this car just does what you want it to.
Where does my oil go?
shawndugan, 03/22/2007
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My Jetta is a beautiful car to behold, but under the hood is a different story. I purchased the car with 40,000 miles on it, so I understand that not everything is going to be perfect, but this is unbelievable. In the first thousand miles it drank 3 quarts of oil. I went to the dealer and the tech there told me that it is acceptable for the car to burn a quart every thousand miles. What? I am very unhappy and he tells me that they stopped making that engine 2.0 L because of the problem. I bought the car to avoid things like this and now for the next 6 years I have to check my oil every time I fill up. I wish someone would have told me, so I`m telling you, don`t buy this car!
she sucks!
8675309, 04/11/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
at 3000 miles and my windshield wipers stopped working on the middles of the highway. i was almost killed. i want my honda back!!
quick car
lantirn, 07/23/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLI VR6 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The car is definitely quick and still sporty. If you like soft suspension you won't get it here. The suspension is sporty even though the car looks like it's about to go SUV. The car gets smoother as you drive on the highway. And the feel of the steering wheel and manual stick shift is so much better than any Japanese car I've driven.
My First and Last VW
fougera, 04/11/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Has 20k miles. For the people who are writing great reviews for this car, I would love to hear how you feel about your car after a year. Since day one, nothing but problems. Speedometer gauge stopped working after 3 days. Fixed and broke again the next day. They took another 10 days to fix it. New Jetta in the shop first 15 days of the first month I owned it. Other problems: Stereo broke and had to be replaced, instrument panel had to be replaced, center counsel broke, problems with breaks, and doors rattle..turned out a cable that was loose inside the door. I should not have this many problems with a new car.
Disappointment
diggum, 04/17/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLI VR6 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had this car for 3 weeks & it has been in the shop for more than 7 days of that 3 weeks. I've written VW about it & they called the service center & ticked them off while my car is still in the shop! I had trouble before it had 1000 miles on it. Some kind of malfunctioning sensor in the steering column. They tore the entire dash out of the car to get to it. They've had it for 5 consecutive days now and act like I shouldn't be upset. I really would be happy if I could just drive my new car.
So far so good
barfod, 10/01/2002
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had my Jetta since January, and the only problems I had were a Monsoon stereo that just quit working and was replaced, and floor mat clips that break too easily. Mechanically the car seems to feel better with each passing mile. It is very comfortable and very smooth.
Most for the money
Adam M., 08/08/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I looked at Accord, Altima, Camry, and others when researching this car and none of them could match the options, quality, performance, or style for the same price. The only drawback is the Jetta is a slightly smaller car than the others. The interior is comfortable and beautiful, the optional leather is very good quality, and I love the cool blue gauges. Don't get the V6 unless you really want it - the 1.8T is nearly as powerful, gets better mileage, and you'll save money. There's plenty of power and torque over the entire rev range, passing and merging are a breeze.
Fun Car But Problems Already!
GLIFUL, 04/20/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLI VR6 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had this car for about six months and I've been loving every single moment while driving it... but unfortunately, I've been hit with the notorious "second gear grind". Every time I shift into second gear, it sounds like metal hitting metal. I took the car to the dealer and they are replacing the syncros 1-2-3 under warranty. The dealer experience has been great since VW is trying to up their image. I haven't gotten the car back yet, but I hope they fixed the problem. Can't wait to drive my baby again!
2003 Jetta GL
Cac2631, 04/20/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I am very satisified with my 2003 Jetta GL since I purchased it in November. It is an awesome car packed with an overload of standard features. I love the modern color of platinum gray and the sleek exterior design. It is a car for both female and male. It is not too cute yet not masculine in style either. I love the sound system and comfort of the seats. The headrests in the back seat are great for extra travelers. The blue and red backlight is definately a great look. I loved the car so much my husband traded his current car in for Jetta too! So now they are the family car!
Great Car!!!
Jake Eigenheer, 10/10/2007
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owned Chevys, Pontiac, Buick, Lincoln and I think that my Jetta is one of the best vehicles I have ever owned. Overall performance, handling, and gas mileage beats all my other vehicles. This car can hold up to my abuse and that says a lot, I'm not the easiest on cars. The best factory radio.
so far it's run and been fun!
skeeterdog, 08/11/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLI VR6 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had my GLI approximately 3 months now. What a fun car to drive ! I love the 6 speed manual transmission, it has get up and go. The interior is very nice, the stereo system is great, loads of trunk space.
1 month
10/12/2002
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
so far so good, love to run this car on home heating oil 85 cents a gallon, but afraid of voiding my warranty,anyone had problems in this area? some say yeah, few say nah, wadda you say.................CAPT KIRK
Great BANG for the buck
deepclue, 04/27/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car feels like a luxury sports sedan to the point of making it a bargain. I just cannot imagine why I would want to pay so much more for an Audi A4. Only problem I have found is some rattling on the dashboard, and some squeaks from the door insulation.
FANTASTIC
Pcarnera, 04/26/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
BEST CAR I HAVE EVER OWNED!
Needs a bit more reliability
bmalec, 06/26/2007
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I'm mixed on my Jetta; I'm impressed with certain aspects, but sorely disappointed with others. On the good side, the 1.8T motor is a perfect match for the car - it's no speed demon, but it's perfect for passing on the freeway. The interior is simple, non-gimmicky and pleasing. On the down side, the car has been in for non-scheduled maintenance nine times in the first four years I've owned it, including the common broken window regulators and ignition coils. Also, the body roll during cornering and pitch during hard braking is ridiculous, because the springs are too soft. Some people say it handles like a sports car, but I'm not sure what they're comparing it to.
loveit!!!!
vwowner, 04/28/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had my Jetta for 3 months now and absolutely love it! It's fun to drive, and looks pretty good too! No complaints, and I am very happy with my decision. It handles very nice, and is comfy.
Loving my car!!
Teresa, 10/26/2002
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my new Jetta. I have the GLS 1.8T with the sport package. I had such a pleasant experience with it, starting with the dealership (Bertolet). They were very friendly and helpful and HONEST!
Holy Turbo Batman!
Jettanewbie, 08/11/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just purchased this vehicle, so I can't address the issues of durability. I can tell you that that if you drive this car you will buy it. It took me all of 50ft of a test drive to say "I'll Take it" . I was not expecting so much power from the 1.8 T engine. Man, is this car fun to drive, manual trans is very smooth and easy to master. Many safty features not available on any of the competitors.
Fuel Friendly
K2az, 08/29/2007
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car for the fuel mileage. When I compared it to other fuel savvy cars this by far looked and handled the best. It might not win any races off the line, but in an endurance race it would blow them away. It's very fun to drive and it looks sophisticated, unlike other gas mileage vehicles. My only complaint is they could've used better materials on the interior, and bigger cup holders. I don't know what kind of drinks europeans use but most american cups are bigger than a soda can.
German Engineering
Vazzellaki, 08/21/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is the second VW jetta I have had within 4 and a half years. At first i leased a 1999 new body style jetta gl...roll up windows, hub caps, tape players, the basics. I loved it!!!!!!! That is why i went and leased another one after my lease was up...a 2003 gls with the works. I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THE VOLKSWAGEN JETTA...everything about it is great! Fun to drive, easy to handle, and has some power to it as well for a 2.0.....
Diesels are GREAT
Bob, 10/16/2007
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Manual trans is fun. I feel like I am in control just like years ago with the standard transmission. The pick up is good working the gears.
Pray you live near the dealership
rhughes, 04/30/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
If it weren't for the near 50mpg milage, VW would not be able to give these pieces of crap away. You will definitely need the extra fuel economy to drive back and forth to the service department. The power windows have broken twice; some sort of "switch" in the brake system failed which refused to allow the car to be put into gear; the fuel filter sprang a leak causing the injectors to suck air. That's just the top three list! You'll also need to be ready to drop $800 at the 40K mark to replace the timing belt. I would *not* trust this vehicle on a road trip.
my view of a jetta
Kim Figliulo, 11/11/2002
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLX VR6 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I think that the Volkswagon Jetta is one of the best cars ever made. It is in style and has great gas mileage. However, I have had troubles with the transmission.