Used 2003 Volkswagen Jetta Consumer Reviews
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Won't buy another car until this one EXPLODES!
bradspunky06, 04/08/2014
updated 04/20/2020
2003 Volkswagen Jetta Wolfsburg Edition 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
34 of 35 people found this review helpful
I have owned this 2003 VW Jetta, since 2006, bought w/23788 miles. It now has 196483 miles, still on its original clutch, its fifth set of tires. The first set went via burning rubber on launches for the first 20k of my ownership. If any portion of this car has a problem it would be caused by my abuse. I've only replaced the timing belt twice, and its still good as new. Interior is still as new except driver side entrance bolster. The engine has only gotten better and the transmission easier to shift. This car is miles of smiles for the dollar, and should be tops on your list. 31 mpg on long drives, 25-27.3 in town avg. Keep tire pressures all around at 4 lbs under max, for best handling! Updated 4/12/16 car has 231600 miles, still on original clutch, and turbo. The mileage is now between 21 and 26 depending on how I drive, but no smoke, a bit of oil burning, interior looks fantastic except bolster on driver left side of seat. Best purchase ever, love this car, handles like a dream, best tire for this car is a Cintinauro P7 Pirelli, check the tire rack for proof. You'll be like where has this tire been all my life?! Just replaced the speed sensor, it corrected a stalling issue, poor mileage, and a lack of power, all with one part. Best 527.00 I've spent, first dealer experience, and certainly won't be the last. I am still in love with my Yetta Jetta, and as I initially said, I'll drive it up til it pops. When it does, you'll be the first to know. Updated 4/15/17, car was traded in for 800.00, though I really wish I'd just kept it, instead on 5/28/16 with 236, 847 miles and a nearly completely blown turbo, I over revved it; blowing the seals. It started smoking, so before it became worthless, I traded it. It would've been 5500.00 to replace the turbo, and catalytic converter. Car was replaced by a 2009 Honda Accord EX 4cyl/5SPDR, in two years I only applied 20k to this plastic loud slow vehicle to replace it with a 2018 Accord Hybrid, A MUCH BETTER BUY. Still want another turbo, as the Jetta is still my number one car of choice, the repair bills not so much.
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Constant expensive repairs
rocketknight, 07/15/2013
updated 07/15/2016
2003 Volkswagen Jetta Wolfsburg Edition 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
17 of 17 people found this review helpful
Fun to drive. Too expensive to own! Breaks often, all unusual problems, always over $1K to repair. Engine design is terrible! Water pump broke at 32K miles/4yrs. 2/3 of transmission needed replaced at 100K from the plastic hydraulics reservoir bursting. Plastic parts throughout engine are designed to last <10 years. An engine fuse didn't burst when shorted causing a small engine fire. Plastic parts break when removing to get to broken parts. Metal fuel lines bolted over plastic coolant parts with no line flex make DIY very difficult. Most parts can only be obtained through dealers. Aftermarket parts cause check engine light to be constantly on, only solution is dealer parts @>2-3x cost. ETC. Worth of vehicle always less than repair costs.
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2003 Volkswagen Jetta for sale near you
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- GLS TDI Diesel SedanMSRP: $7,50083 mi away
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2003 Jetta - Wolfsburg Edition
rileyken, 07/21/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta Wolfsburg Edition 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
34 of 36 people found this review helpful
This is a great car. It has very good handling and performance. Theres lots of power with the 1.8T Engine. Cars Interior is attractive. The adjustable sports seats and leather steering wheel and leather parking brake are a plus. The overall quality is very good.
250k Mile Review
bluebirdfan, 08/06/2010
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
13 of 13 people found this review helpful
Original owner of a great commuter car. Have had no major problems mechanically. Still get 44 mpg overall with 80/20 hwy/city. Ride and drive a re still surprisingly good despite having 250,000 miles. Bought the car to be able to haul cargo and get good gas mileage after using a 1/2 ton truck. Still on original clutch, brakes, transmission, etc. Very impressed with the car overall and would not hesitate to buy again when this one dies.
146,000+ Miles, Lots of Fun, but Headaches Too
pjkportland, 07/26/2013
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL 1.8T 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
13 of 13 people found this review helpful
I have owned my 2003 1.8T 5A GLS wagon since new and now have over 146k miles. It really is fun to drive and has amazing cargo hauling space. But . . . expensive to maintain and gets only about 21 mpg on premium. Make sure you have a good mechanic. Mine is one of the best, and I still have a funky/random issue - a beep, blinking dash lights, then a power drop, as if the tranny disconnected with the engine. As much as I like driving the car, I think I'm going back to Honda when old blue bites the dust.
Needed at least one review for diesel
rcplaneman16, 04/11/2014
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL TDI 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 4A)
21 of 22 people found this review helpful
Looked through some of the reviews and noticed not one for a diesel and everyone main complaint being MPG. Well just wanted to state that the TDI Wagon for my family has reliably gets 35-38 mpg depending how one drives on the highway and has had no major problems for 225k miles. Only things replaced was 2 alternators, original died and its replacement died while under warranty and had to clean the carbon out once so far out of the engine. everything about driving is like the gasoline that everyone has talked about.
Fun little car with some quirky issues
Andrew, 07/25/2015
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
16 of 17 people found this review helpful
First thing, I love my Jetta. Despite it's tiny 115hp, it is a blast to drive thanks to the manual transmission, great steering and fun ride. I have owned my Jetta for three years now, and have had very few issues. I live in Wisconsin, and this car surprised the hell out of my friends who had trucks and SUVs by its' performance in heavy snow and ice. For some reason, it is unstoppable in winter weather. I am also 6ft 1 and have plenty of head and legroom while driving. I am disappointed with the gas mileage, I usually average 26 mpg combined, but have gotten 31-32 mpg on long highway trips. The biggest downside with this powertrain is undoubtedly the engine. I frequently have difficulty passing or I have to downshift 2 gears to make it up a small hill. I wouldn't mind if the return was excellent mileage but the mileage as I mentioned is somewhat mediocre for a car of this size. My only truly negative experience was an EPC censor that would put my car in limp mode. The censor randomly would go off when I would start it, and acceleration was limited and the car would max out at 50mph. I took it to several mechanics and a dealer and eventually found out that a botched repair from a previous owner was to blame. Just be careful with these cars though, as the electronics are really touchy and can be expensive to fix. Other than that, I love my car and have had no other mechanical issues to speak of. I highly recommend this car as a cheap, fun to drive car that isn't as vanilla as a Ford, Chevy or Hyundai.
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Diesels Yes, Gasoline No
irwin, 06/16/2008
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
9 of 9 people found this review helpful
I have 73,000 miles on the car and have had no maintenance needed other than the standard periodic checkups and oil changes. I have better than 50 mpg'total (I have not added it up since 50K but at that time it averaged 50.83). I have own 5 V.W. diesels and put on nearly 150K on three at 10, 12 and 17 years old. I would stay away from the gas version of the cars but I intend to keep this one and would purchase a diesel again.
2003 and STILL kickin'
oldvolkshome, 08/16/2011
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
11 of 12 people found this review helpful
I purchased my 2003 1.8T Jetta 5-speed new. Aside from a new water pump at 60k miles (normal) and a faulty coil over arc this car is the best car I have ever owned. It is now 2011 and have 100k miles with original brake pads and original clutch and trans. The car runs beautifully.. It helps A LOT if you drive your car gently and DON'T "over tach" and screech your tires! When it comes to having a good or bad car, it's a 50/50 thing. Just getting lucky and picking a good one combined with how you drive it and maintain it. I highly recommend using synthetic oil. I have used Mobil 1 from day one and my motor doesn't burn a DROP of oil 100k miles later. Love your car & it will love you back!!
TDI Rocks
Clay Brechter, 07/29/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I work at Bob Lewis VW. In March I bought a Jetta GLS TDI 5-speed. I love it. It gets about 47.88 miles per gallon and I drive about 80 miles per hour. The torque is 155 meaning I usually don't even have to down shift when going up hills. The car is a diesel so I won't have to get it smogged every 2 years and I smile everytime I pass a gas station. I am getting about 600 miles per tank. If you would like to contact me you can e- mail me at ClayAtBobLewisVW@aol.com.
Excellent, Fast, Reliable, Looks Great
bryans, 03/18/2009
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
As you can see, I have an 03 Jetta 1.8T Tiptronic 5-speed I bought with 28k...now has 91k 2.5 years later. I've owned four late model Cadillacs (two DeVilles and two Eldorados). I was so disappointed in the Northstar V8 and the very cheap interior in all of them that I decided I would buy imported only now on. Boy, am I glad I did!!! First of all, the 1.8T is strong, reliable, FAST, and easy to work on and upgrade. The interior is sleek and leather is high quality and durable. Monsoon audio is awesome, but better with a subwoofer. The exterior is very sexy and stylish. The 17" wheels are great, especially with a good set of Z- rated performance tires. Too many good things to list.....
Love at first drive
vdubluv, 10/30/2010
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Great car, powerful, turbo kicks in at low speeds to give you much better performance overall. Little to no turbo lag. And still get 25-32mpgs. I have the sport package with the suspension car handles beautifully. Could not have asked for a better deal.
Great Car
alexr, 08/08/2002
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
The Jetta is the best car in its price range and class. Fit and finish are superb, performance is excellent, its fun to drive and its not too expensive for what you get. I love my Jetta!!!
The yellow is starting to show
Sandra Bartlett, 10/16/2015
updated 10/21/2016
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
10 of 12 people found this review helpful
Bought in Feb last year and can't make a yr with it.I have replaced multi things catalytic converter.2 batteries abs battled check engine light for 6 months .Now there's an electrical drain the no one can find. Fed up here.MY UPDATE-UNLOADED this crap vehicle no one ever could figure out what was draining the battery
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FAVORITE CAR
yellocharis, 04/10/2011
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
7 of 8 people found this review helpful
I bought this car in November 2010, it has only been a few months of ownership but I absolutely LOVE this car! No other car of this year can really compare. The mpg is excellent! It is a small car, but that's how I like it. I do not like big cars, I don't have a family so I don't need one. It has great handling. I love every moment I spend in my car! I hardly ever want to get out of it. It is comfortable and sleek! I have had no problems with my car so far, it has been great to me=) A pleasure, not a problem. I would recommend this car to everyone!
TDI - the Best Buy
TDIman, 08/12/2006
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
While the TDI engine is more expensive to purchase, the original great gas mileage - 49 MPG/HWY with the automatic transmission, continues to improve (now 52MPG/HWY). This car is quiet (running at 2,000 cruising at 70 MPH) and cleaner than my Passat 1.8T (approx.1,500 lbs. less CO2 pollution/yr.). This turbo-diesel is a joy to run and drive. It has great torque! The many choices for fuel just tops off its versatility (standard diesel, biodiesel and with a few adaptations, vegetable oil and waste vegetable oil).
So far so good
vwandsaabfan, 01/15/2013
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I recently purchased this car as a practical everyday driver and I am loving it. It is not very powerful, but the 2.0l does well enough. The manual gearbox is wonderful and is very fun. The car handles surprisingly well. I am happy with the fuel economy (average 29.5) and so far have not had any mechanical issues. There are a few squeaks and rattles from various places in the interior, but other than that the car is very clean. It is almost at 100xxx miles and still runs like a champ. The heater is also excellent in this car, which is important as I am from Wisconsin. I have put about 3xxx miles on so far and am very happy with this car.
This one is a heart breaker...
jahshwa, 07/16/2011
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL 1.8T 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
8 of 10 people found this review helpful
What can I say? I've poured money into this little beast, and everything is still breaking. If its not a circuit board, its a vacuum hose or an oxygen sensor... Everything just falls apart on this car, and there seems to be no stopping the decline. I just rebuilt the transmission, replaced two axels, two boots, the A/C circuit board, the windshield washer pump, the windshield... you name it I'm replacing it. It drives great, and I loved it for a while... but this thing is high maintenance & annoying. Not worth the fun drive at all... I've already dumped an extra $6000.00 into this car, and that's what its worth now.... :(
fastest car I ever owned
jbaril, 03/14/2004
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLI VR6 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 6M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Mine's tornado red with black leather, moonroof, monsoon, the whole shebang, I think. I know the point of the GLI was performance, but I must, having had 2 Passats and a New Beetle, I miss the trip computer and fog lights. Still, it's quick and agile, and the sport seats are comfortable. It's a nice car and it kicks butt!
Perfect car
miko_miko_miko, 09/13/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Everything in and outside of this car is exceptional! I would tell anyone to buy this car.
Fun to drive
Danburry, 02/06/2009
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLI VR6 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 6M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought this car new. I have loved every minute of it. The stereo is great! Overall It is a great car. So fun to drive in twisty roads. 6 speed manual makes all the difference.
Hot Looking Road Rocket - Poor Quality
TalismanPHX, 11/10/2006
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
I love the looks, handling, and power of my Reflex Silver Jetta GLS 1.8T "road rocket". Mine is loaded with all the options (Sport Luxury package, moonroof, leather, awesome Monsoon audio). However, as much as I love to drive this car, I will never ever buy another VW again. It has very poor build quality because it was built at the Mexico assembly plant and its very cheap interior plastics ruin what should be an enjoyable car. The windows fall down into the doors due to cheap plastic clips that break and the fuel filler release has failed about seven times. The fold down rear seats rattle constantly. The car has left me stranded three times when it wouldn't start due to ignition coil failure. The CV joints have failed.
Fun to drive, but MANY quirks
jfromphilly, 08/30/2013
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
8 of 12 people found this review helpful
My Jetta got totaled a few weeks back. She was a great car in many ways, (fast, fun to drive, gas efficient) & I got 130,000 miles out of her. However, I decided not to get another Jetta. Here are a few of the reasons: -Anytime there's a repair (and there will be many) you will pay $1000, minimum. -REEKS of crayons. (inevitably the first comment anyone makes setting foot inside the car) -Strange clicking noise coming from the turn signal -Lights turn on and won't turn off again (had to have the mechanic take them apart to get them off) -The electrical outlet/cig lighter stopped working a month in & after multiple repair attempts I had to just give up on it
You'll Have to Pry My Hands Off of It
Lynn, 10/15/2010
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
5 of 7 people found this review helpful
I bought this car "slightly used" with about 7K miles on it. I absolutely love it. I regularly get over 40 mpg and have gotten a few tanks over 50! One was 55 mpg! It's fun to drive, quick enough and looks good. My wife would have liked a little more interior room and an automatic but I plan to keep driving it a lot longer. Only significant repair has been the timing belt at 100K, as recommended. Fun to cruise along knowing I'm getting 40-50 mpg passing jacked up 4WDs getting single digits!
To many defaults! VW is garbage!
deesingh84, 11/19/2010
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
8 of 13 people found this review helpful
I foolishly bought this vehicle in 06'. The sporty black on black look sold me instantly. 30 days after purchasing the jetta the water pump, electrical & sunroof messed up! Ive prob invested over $4k since & counting? Vw is very expensive to fix & just for a side mirror to be replaced at vw was $954! My recall for the sunroof wasnt even accepted! This car has been a nightmare! The sunroof leaks, the waterpump went bad, there is no leg room for back seat passangers & for Goodness sake why is the cup holders above the radio? I cant see the station nor put in a cd without removing the drinks & water from my cups leak over the radio & into my cash tray. Finding rims to fit is challanging also
Worst Car Ever
All Max, 01/15/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
The VW Jetta TDI gets great mileage, but that is where the greatness ends. On the highway the ride is tolerable but around town it sounds and feels like I’m driving a “Big-Rig”.It gets louder the more I drive it. Not only is the motor loud, but when I’m stopped I can feel my entire body vibrate. At speeds from 0-40 there are rattles in the dash and all the windows squeak constantly. The dealer says this is all within the manufacturer’s specifications. Essentially no back seat. Cup holder location is ridiculous. Unless you live for 40-mpg stay away from this poorly engineered, poorly constructed automobile.
Superb Driving Experience and Safety
HOU08, 08/02/2008
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Bought Jetta GLS 1.8T, sport package, auto, fully loaded, sunroof, in Dec 05 with 29K miles. 65K now in Jul 08. The car is a pleasure to drive. Fast acceleration and breaking, comfortable (Im 34 and 6.1), excellent performance and road handling. The car fatefully listens to your, very safe. 1.8T is nothing like regular Jettas. Mechanical problems: a year ago both front suspensions squeaking & back wheels humming noise started- mechanic thinks nothing serious. Rear passenger side door could not open, fixed under warranty. Electrical problems: passenger seat heater broke, 6 of 8 speakers died, factory radio/CD broke twice, all fixed under warranty. I still love the car & would recommend it.
Fun to drive when not in the shop
sean, 08/25/2008
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I purchased my Jetta with 5 miles and all options. After 5 years, it has about 30K miles (I don't drive much) and is often in the shop. If the engine light isn't on then it's a recall. It's had electrical issues (interior dash lights no longer works), rear pillar rattling, suspension problems and the list goes on. Once off warranty, the repairs are very costly! I'm not sure how some can rate this car with a 9 or 10 reliability. Perhaps I got the lemon. It's a fun car to drive but definitely my last VW.
What a car!
youbikim, 10/29/2002
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Wagon (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Frankly speaking, I worried about Jetta's small engine (2.0, only 115 hp). Now, after having it for a month, I am totally satisfied with my Jetta. I think this car is slightly small for a big individual, but its performance is awesome. At only $22000(GLS+leather seats+monsoon sound system), this car has alot of features of luxury cars.
LOVE MY 2003.5 GLX VR6!!
gnaz_jet, 06/04/2009
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLX VR6 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
After owning a few reliable & yet boring Toyotas, I decided to go VW, even though I read both favorable & bad reviews. It seems like a lot people have got lemons. But, my Jetta has been outstanding. I'm at 65k mi & have never had a problem. I've only done the standard maintenance, that the dealer recommends & it still drives like it did when it was brand new. It still hauls a--! and has many creature comforts, like a luxury car. To me, it's a luxury sports car & I love every minute that I'm driving it. Of course, I've upgraded the optional 17"s to BBS 18"s & changed out the red tailights to the 2005 GLI smoked ones, to give the 'ol girl a makeover & to keep her happy. She's the Best!!
Fun to drive - lots of repairs
tri1982, 10/07/2008
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
When I first got my Jetta, I absolutely loved it. it handled well, accelerated quickly, and was a smooth ride. But I had problems right away. The transmission didn't shift smoothly. My car still jerks and lurches when shifting gears (although the 8 times I took it in, the mechanics never experienced anything). The electrical has had issues too. My windows roll down when I pull the button to roll the window up. My engine light has been on for the last year (although I've taken it in 4 times. It goes off for a few days and then comes back on.) I love my Jetta, I just don't love all the repairs it needs.
Disappointed 2nd time buyer
S. Parker, 09/01/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Warning to all - do not park under any tree. Had to replace windshild at one week old after a hickor nut hit on the exposed edge of the glass. The edge is the most fragile part and VW needs to cover this edge. Hearing vibration noises from the dash at only two months. Very disappointed in this car. Thought I would be getting the same quality as the 88 Jetta I had bought new back then, but it is not there. The car looks good but the quality isn't backing up the looks. Need more leg room in front and back.
NO NOT BUY A VW JETTA DIESEL
James, 07/22/2009
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I thought getting 45 city, 55 HWY would save me a lot of money. I have 2 Jettas, 2001 & 2003, and they break down all the time. To replace a radiator fan is $550. It take 2.4-2.6 hours of labor + the fan is over $200. The car feeds the exhaust back into itself, which takes maintenance. Recently, log a lot of power, would only go 60mph, had to replace a air control sensor, $180+ new, just a 4 inch pipe with a sensor in it, parts are very high. If you pull up to close to a concrete parking bumper, it will go under the car and pull your bumper facing out. The oil dip stick going into a plastic pipe, designed to break after heating/cooling, $20, and when it breaks, the plastic could go engin
another great VW
65kaefer, 07/18/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought my Jetta Diesel in January, and love the peppy little thing! I've driven 7,000 miles so far, getting about 45 mpg. The only reason I had to bring it back to the dealer was the sunroof wouldn't close and the driver's map light would not stay on. I got the stick shift thinking I need it for accelleration and fuel ecconomy. It's ackward to shift with the armrest down, and hard to reach the radio controls while in 3rd or 5th gear. Stick with the automatic! There's plenty of head and leg room for my six foot frame. The stereo is great with cassette and CD, large buttons, and great sound.
It is fun car, love it!
ben, 05/10/2010
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I love my 2003 VW Jetta, to me it is best car for town driving, (for long distance cruising I use my Mercedes 2004 E320 which is the best in this category) Jetta is interesting to drive and FUN to drive and safest in its class, grate interior and exterior, very solid and stable on the road, I would recommend this car for everybody.
Excellent all around car
Cliff Hunt, 12/17/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is my first new generation VW diesel. I have driven them in Europe, and decided to buy one in 12/02. I had to have the wagon since it is made in Germany and the sedan is Mexican. I drive about 100 mi/day commuting, and need the mileage. Despite what one of the other reviewers said, this car has been FAR more reliable than MY 88 VW. I sold my 88 VW w/ 135k on it, and it was good. This car has NEVER been in the shop for anything. DO use the DELVAC 1 oil. Insist that your dealer does if you have to take it to them. The oil costs more, but it truly is worth it. I get 42-52mpg, more in summer, less in winter. Car is NOT slow (have been > 110mph)
Mostly Reliable
JHozer, 10/17/2009
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Bought this Jetta new in 2003. It has been a reliable commuter except for the usual VW problems. Replaced the plastic water pump at 75,000 miles. Also, the computer is very sensitive. Check engine light pops up occasionally. Changed mass air flow sensor twice, O2 sensor, coolant temp sensor three times. On the bright side, the Jetta is a smooth ride with a very comfortable interior. Love the heated leather seats! Still getting 32mpg on the highway after 6 years.
Fun to drive, very powerful
Jetta Man, 06/22/2010
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Bought this car with one owner and 36k miles. Excellent, fast, comfortable and lots of comments. It's a German made car, it's expected to be babied. You must take care of it, if you do it will perform. It's also turbo so regular checks, synthetic european blend oil, proper rated tires. Good purchase for me!
On my second ALH looking for third!
Dave Smith, 07/04/2018
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Sedan (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
It's rediculous they made these cars in 1999 and can't make any thing to compare to them today. They put all the money into USB ports and navigation systems and skimp on frame and engine quality. New cars are highly tech junk. At least you'll be able to spotify, and tweet while you are waiting on AAA.....haha.
fine tuned machine
john and christina, 06/24/2017
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL TDI 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
bought this car2007 with 74,000 miles on it. in ten years, we have now nearly 250,000 miles. what a great and reliable auto! runs like a well oiled machine with plenty of power and pick up when needed. all around great car with awesome mileage.
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Fun, small wagon
eapj, 01/15/2010
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL 1.8T 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
So far, so good with my '03 1.8T manual wagon. I have had other VWs and wanted a small but sporty wagon and I picked this one up certified pre-owned in September 2006 with 34k miles on it. I have had to replace wear and tear items (brakes, etc.) but I have get to have a mechanical problem with it. Sure, it has quirks (sunroof sometimes opens by itself; cupholders are useless but I don't use them anyway; sometimes te rear hatch doesn't like to open). To me, these are minor annoyances that don't impact my love of the car. I plan to run it into the ground since there aren't any fun, small wagons on the market I like (new Jetta too large). So far, so good at 82k miles.
3 weeks and two problems already
D_Money, 06/12/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLI VR6 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 6M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Ive had my GLI for 3 weeks and it has 1221 miles on it. Here are my problems. First, there is a rattling noise in the car door whenever I have the music on. It is actually worse when I have it on low because I can hear it more. I took it in and they didnt fix it the first time so now Im taking it in again so they can fix it (hopefully). Second my engine light has come on after 1200 miles. Coming from a Toyota RAV4 where I never had any problems, this is strange to me. Its not the gas lid. When I take it in to get the sound system looked at, I will have them look at the engine light but why would a brand new car need service after 3 weeks?
A great car with great mileage...
meganuke, 07/08/2003
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI 4dr Wagon (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Keep an eye on certain maintenance items: always use synthetic oil (Delvac 1), keep an extra mass air flow sensor on hand, and find someone with a VAG-COM to make adjustments to the EGR setting to reduce intake clogging. This should lead to many trouble free miles. I regularly travel over 800 miles per tank of fuel, averaging over 48 mpg. Even spirited driving nets 42 mpg!
Can't Wait to Get Rid of My Jetta
Carrie2, 08/14/2006
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
I bought my Jetta in June of this year. I have nothing but problems with the car. It has been at the dealer for service four to five times already because the fuel pump continues to run for 25-30 minutes after the car is shut off. The techs keep asking me to bring it back in so they can look at for 2-3 weeks. Yeah right, not after it has gone there 4-5 times and still a problem after 2 MONTHTS. I have brought it to 2 different VW service departments and I was told that I was out of my mind and that the car is safe. Yeah right. I can not wait to get it out of here!
My 1st Lemon
Lemon Owner, 08/27/2010
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Well, I've been very dissappointed in my Jetta. I purchased my car 11 months ago, and the transmission broke just before the one year mark. This car has always had problems. It jerks when it shifts gears, and when driven at high speeds on the freeway the car suddenly slows then jumps back up. Annoying lights on dashboard won't go away. Also has a loud clicking noise in turn signal area. Car reeks of crayons in summer. Burns motor oil like crazy. Only good thing about this car is that its great on gas. If you buy a Jetta, its best to buy a new one.
Bad Jetta
Mad, 08/09/2010
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL 1.8T 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
I bought my jetta turbo brand new! 2 years later the engine goes out! 2 years after that the transmission went out! talk about a lemon! A lot of other things went bad i just don't have enough space for details. It looked beautiful but the vw cars are nothing but trouble. I was so glad to get rid of it and now I'm so happy with my Honda!
Very Safe little car!
Angelle, 06/24/2017
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
I owned a 2003 VW Jetta and as it did have a few things go wrong, just make sure you listen to the "dummy" lights on the dash. My brake lights had come on and i blew it off thinking its probably nothing until i pulled up to a stop sign and they didnt engage until it was too late. I ended up losing control of the car on a gravel road and rolled it in the ditch. However im definitely not here to say anything bad about this vehicle. I rolled it mulpitle times and walked away from the accident with nothing but a scratch from the airbags deploying and a little whiplash... the seatbelt saved my life and didnt hurt me in anyway. The windsheild was completely smashed in but considering it was made of safety glass made not to shatter it bent in and spit very little glass. My side windows were broke out and the front of my car completely smashed and the car was totaled. I was definitely protected by this Jetta i hope to have another someday. I am 17 and would 100% recomend this car to any and everyone. From a beginner car to a senior citizen! Loved this car!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
The Good and the Bad
kyoung116, 10/27/2005
2003 Volkswagen Jetta Wolfsburg Edition 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Love the tiptronic transmission in my 2003 Jetta Wolfsburg! It makes driving an automatic almost as much fun as driving a stick. It is great on fuel and has awesome handling. It is amazing how much power you get out of that little engine. The low end torque from the smaller turbo unit almost makes you forget it's a 4-cyl. However, the worksmanship is pretty bad. The paint and windhshield scratch too easily. The paint has swirl marks everywhere. The VW CD player just doesn't sound good, it's missing a certain clarity to the sound. I replaced the head unit, but kept the Monsoon speakers...which sound GREAT! Some fabric came loose on the passenger seat and a rear seat came off it's hinge. Also, my trunk is getting so stiff that I can barely open/close it. This is a great car, too bad it's made in Mexico.
Wow, just wow.
Q, 07/19/2008
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLI VR6 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 6M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
Only recently purchased used but love it, Love It, LOVE IT. It just positively screams. Car was a dealer loaner for the past 5 years, only 42k miles so at least I know the maintenance is current. I do feel like the interior is a bit small, but it's a tiny price to pay for the performance and styling. Most people say get the leather but I like cloth just fine. It's scary how quiet it is also. The great part is, yeah, it takes 93 octane but who care about an extra 20 cents per when gas is $4 per gallon anyway and still gets really good mileage? Stereo is great, handling is tight. That the gearing is so close together it's a bit to get used to but fun as hell off the mark.
Excellent Safety
TMack, 06/22/2004
2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 1.8T 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
After my wife got a new car, a 2001 VW Jetta VR6, I got a little jealous. So when it came my turn to buy a new car I bought a Loaded 2003 VW Jetta GLS 1.8T. Unfortunately I just got into a major car accident on Fathers Day (2004) that ended up totalling my Jetta. And after everything was over, I walked away with very minimal injuries, a little cut on my wrist from the front air bag, and I hit my knee on the dash. All six air bags went off, and this car saved my life. And guess what, I'm going to buy another one! Great gas mileage, and a blast to drive!