Used 2003 Volkswagen Passat Consumer Reviews
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Poorly engineered
2003 V-6 Passat: replace alternator, $1000+; replace motor mounts, $ 600+; etc
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Repairs equal purchase price
My brother bought this car for a little old lady 9 months ago for 5k. Haha, ya right. He has already spent 4k fixing it and his mechanic says the ball joints are going, onther 1k. What a lemon. I drove the car, it may or may not have been owned by a little old lady but it definitely drives like one. What a piece of junk.
- GLX 4Motion WagonMSRP: $4,695275 mi away
- GLS 1.8T SedanMSRP: $2,499590 mi away
- GLS 1.8T SedanMSRP: $4,995612 mi away
I Love My First Dub!
I have had my Passat 1.8T, 5-speed manual for 4 months now. I think it's a great ride - fun to drive, easy to take care of, and it looks great. I have fallen in love with the German engineering.
Exceeds Expectations
Pleasing performance, fine fit and finish, quietness, excellent sound system, features, features, features -- still finding new features.
Great Car
Driving for three months and this car far exceeds my expectations. German engineering is far more exciting than Japanese reliability. The German build quality of this car is noncomparable to the previously built US & Mexico VW's (Rabbit/Jetta) There is always room for improvement, but they are minor in nature. This car has one small rattle that the monsoon stereo fixes.
LOVE IT!
I LOVE my new passat. At first I wasn't too sure when I was considering it, now I'm so happy! The only thing that my passat doesn't have is power adjustable seats, otherwise everything's great!
No Regrets but not perfect
We owned our Passat wagon for almost 5 years and 52,000 miles. Overall this has been a good car. My wife loved it for hauling around our first child for the first 4 years then I got it when we put her in a Honda Odyssey for hauling our two kids. I used it as a commuting car into Houston from the burbs or to the park and ride. The car has a nice tight steering feel and great suspension. The overall ride quality is very good. I think the instruments are good and not too complicated which I have often read. The engine was good but the car felt a little underpowered at times with the AWD. I would generally recommend this car.
Impressive
Following test drives of the new Accord, Camry, A4, Maxima, and Volvo S60, the Passat was ahead of the pack in several categories. The main ones being the combination of features (V6, tiptronic, ESP, Monsoon, etc.) for the reasonable $30k price tag. Love the ride quality and responsiveness. Don't by a car without test driving the Passat.
2003 VW Passat: Beyond the call
A super nice auto! Well made, fun to drive,comfortable,safe and affordable. Volkswagon is killing the competition! A 15 year BMWer who is equally happy with a bunch of cash to spare. Very Well done.
affordable luxury performance car...
The VW Passat feels like a luxury car and it's really fun to drive. The 170HP/turbo engine accelerates well from stop or when passing. The car is feels solid and it's very responsive and accommodating in turns. As a New England resident and former SUV owner, it performs well in the snow with its great tires and traction control. The interior controls are easy to use/access and well layed-out. This is a luxury performance car with all the bells & whistles and safety features without the ridiculous price tag. I love this car!
From a C-class to a Passat and glad..
This car has proven to be a class act. Fun to drive, comfortable and looks great. I think the thing I love most about this car is the feeling of being safe when im driving it. If you are looking for a sedan for under 30k that feels like a 40k+ car this is the one!
Awsome
I put on 1,500 kms per week and this vehicle now has close to 17,000 kms. Trouble free and the 4Motion, especially here in Canada really comes in handy. -20 celcius this morning, just get in, start and go. The heated hides are a nice touch as well. I love this car...way more than the '02 Maxima I had previous.
a very well car by VW
i own a 2002 vw passat and i am just in love. i bought it last november and i already have 24,000 miles on it and it doing well.
Great Car!!!!
I have had the car for 3 days now and have loved every minute of it. I have always had a sports car but decided that with expanding a family I needed a sedan. This car has the power and drivability of a sports car with a luxury ride. It is a car that exceeds my expectations.
No question about it!!!!
This car is the bomb!!!! I have owned a BMW 318ti and although the engine was a bit smoother and it tracked a little better the Passat is bigger, nicer interior--many more features and about $5,000 less. Get the leather interior with heated seats...you will not want to get out!!!!!
As good as a VW gets.
This is a complete german car that can compete with any other at a much lower price. It is a fully loaded sedan that still offers a fun ride. The 1.8T engine hadles like a good 4 cyl at low RPMs, but as soon as it gets close to 3000 RMP yo can feel the car pulling. Precise steering and good breaks. The only thing I would change are the tires, They a confortable set of Michellin, but they lack the grip when working the 1.8T
Total price too high!
in owning a passat one has to be carefull as to the cost and quality of service available and has to be considered in the total price. Avalability of trained service technicians is scarce and the cost of parts is also something to be reckoned with. An onboard diagnostic computer which would print out the problem would help the consumer in not being taken by the dealer or be the training guineapig of the technician
First Impressions of New Car
I've owned this car for less than one week, but so far it is a lot of fun and a pleasure to spend time in. Quality and reliability unknown but this site requires an answer to post...
It's a great car when it runs
This wagon drives like a sports car when it runs. VW has had ignition coil troubles with all of the 1.8L V6 and W8 engines. Car has failed 2 times and is still at shop. No parts available- 1000's of VW's all in shop with the same problem. VW will only fix the broken componets so it will be back to the shop when the next two coils fail or cashed in under the Lemon Law. VW customer service is the worst in the industry.
I love my new car!!!
I absolutely love my new passat...I had considered buying an Altima but I am very glad that I chose the passat instead. I absolutely love my car...and the price cannot be matched!!
2003 GLX with Tiptronic
Having been a sports car owner for several years (Porsche, S-2000, and Corvette), the move to a sedan was a major shock. Not wanting to blowup the bank account, I narrowed my choices to the GLX, an Accord V-6, Maxima, and G- 35 Infiniti. Well the G-35 was almost immediately eliminated, due to the fact that I'm moving from So. Fla to CT (rear wheel drive). I tested the others mentioned--BORING!!! When I got to the Passat, my eyes lit up. Nice looking car, German engineering, and a decent price tag.
bought new, owned for 6 years, 100k mile
Bought car new in 2002 and just turned 100k miles. Problems...coil packs replaced by dealer when new...no charge. Cars manufactured prior to 7/02 had defects which VW took care of under warranty. Had engine sludge problem at 82k miles which vw fixed for free although technically out of warranty...changed to synthetic oil. car has had regular maintenance by VW dealer which provides excellent service. Car has experienced some minor issues (emergency flasher replaced, headlights burned out, etc.) but overall has been very reliable....no major engine or transmission issues. Very fun to drive, excellent ride on highway, solid German engineering. Bought new 08 last year....10k miles no problems.
Lemon of all Lemons
Just a warning just don't do VW. I absolutely hate this car, because of poor service and reliability. I don't go anywhere for fear it will break down again. VW service is horrible. I have a door that has never opened, just not safe. I have needed CV boots since the day after I bought the car. This car was a replacement for my 2002 Jetta, which was a death trap. I fear for my safety in this car. I have leaked every fluid since it was new. Dealers and VW state meets specification. I wonder should they be prosecuted for theft. I have paid more in maintenance and repairs than what the car cost. Ontario VW wants $2800 for each CV boot replacement, more than it's worth.
Pleased with the 2003 Passat and Oakvill
As a 16 year owner of the 1st model year of the VW Jetta, I answered the call for drivers wanted in 2007. My used 2003 Passat is truly a joy to drive. I faithfully change oil out @ 8K with Castrol Synthetic 5 w 40 and look forward to enjoyable years of driving. Purchased in 2007 with ~ 83 K I have now in 01/09 133 K with only a transaxle boot replacement
My favorite car
Was actually looking at the Accord Coupe and Toyota Solara in a V6. Somehow ended up at a VW dealer. Needless to say, I ended up with a Passat GLS 1.8T with the 5-speed shiftable automatic transmission. Never thought I would buy a VW, but I am sure glad I did.
Buyer Beware - Tires Defective
Tires defective at purchase (Micheliin MXV4) - pulled and "wobbly." VW dealer refused to replace. Michelin authorized dealers continue run-around. Rotated on 10/28/02, told to drive for 5000 miles. Re- rotated on 12/13, and pulled other direction. Michelin dealers refused to replace - advised to return to VW dealer. Dealer refused. Dealer offered to "replace" tire for $150 including balance, valve stem and mounting. Caveat emptor.
A great car, but needs TLC
We bought it brand new off the boat from Germany, and we still love the car at 75,000 miles. These cars do require a little extra appreciation of the engineering and sophistication of the 1.8 turbo four with its low speed torque and light weight. Previously, we owned 3 Toyota Camrys, which also required more repairs as they got older. VW and both local dealers have been good about recall notices and anticipating problems. I started using synthetic oil changes at 5000 miles when VW offered the 80,000 mile warranty, and I think it protects during cold starts and gives a little better mileage, despite the extra cost.
Max bang for the buck
This is an all around great car at a price that adds a real feeling of triumph for us value addicts.
lemon
Ignition coils go bad between 50-75 K miles. Major design flaw. VW will not claim responsibility for this issue as I have contacted them. I don't mind 3 or 4 recalls and countless other items that had to be replaced during the warranty, but it is unfair for the owner to pay for ignition coil replacement, which seems to be a common issue with this engine. Ask any VW owner or dealer.
Not totally impressed
I am very impressed with the overall appearance and handling of this car. My concern is the electrical and the transmission. After owning for 3 days the tiptronic will not engage and the fuel gauge quit working. Maybe mine is a fluke and is an easy repair but it has left me with a sour feeling at this point.
fun to drive but few flaws
Presumably good car, but few flaws and none mentioned on this forum. Like everyone the interior colors are great. But confusing controls on the dashboard. The build is good with an eye on safety.Fun to drive,sporty. But too many electrical faults. Bad Monsoon sterio system. Too many reported problems with their ignition coils. They are redesigning their ignition coils after too many of the Passats started giving problems. There is a backlog for these parts for a few frustrating weeks. If you are the next unlucky victim cross your fingers cos the wait can be painful.Does not have a good defroster. Can be painful in those foggy cold days.
Oh My God!!
Timing belt failure!! $5000 and none of it covered under warrantee!?!?!!? Just be wary a regular change at 60K cost almost $2000 and yes the car is not paid for yet!!!!!!!
Excellent car- great buy!
My Maxima was totalled in an accident. We were looking for a V6 family-sedan under $30K. Our shortlist was Passat, Acura TL and Maxima. We test-drove many cars- older 528i, A6. We've previously owned Mazdas, Nissan, Toyotas. We did a lot of research on the web- Edmunds is awesome! After a couple weeks, we converged on the Passat GLX and absolutely love it! The exterior/interior is eye-catching and the handling is far superior than the Japanese cars. I am hoping the Passat will last me as long as the Japanese cars- they've increased the warranty to 4years now which is great. German cars feel stiffer than the Japanese cars, and make you stick to the road.
Be forewarned
If you are reading this you are probably thinking about purchasing a used Passat. If you do, chances are good you will regret it. I owned one for 4 years and never got any satisfaction, and got a lot of mediocre to poor service from VW. My Passat had brake issues. First replaced at 10k (all), then 17k (rear) 25k (rear) 29k (front) and when I ditched it at 33k, the rear needed replacing again, VW said was normal. I had a hesitation problem which I pointed out to them from 7000 miles, and every other time that I brought it in, they could never replicate the problem, but it was dangerous- not normal turbo lag. Lots of other issues and little satisfaction. Look up engine sludge issues on internet.
Not worth it
I think that the guy who bought his VW from CarMax got the one that I unloaded. It was the biggest disappointment. Had a Rabbit for 16 yrs that was great. Had the Passat for 4 years and hated it for three. Went through 4 sets of brakes, VW said it was normal wear. Hesitation issues, finally the axle was giving me trouble and I traded it in for a Mercury Milan. So far the Milan has only needed $30 oil changes, compared with the $80 oil changes of VW, not to mention premium gas. Got rid of the Passat at 33000 miles and was glad it was gone. Hey Andrews, is yours indigo blue? If so, sorry you got stuck. I don't care however reliable VW gets, I am done with them as a company.
One Owner's Opinion
The first thing you notice is the look and styling, both inside and out, of cars that are much more expensive. Like their commercial blatantly states, it only looks like a million bucks. The exterior lines are clean, not cluttered, but cutting edge modern. The interior is German plain, but classy. The quasi-retro speedometer and tach, with cool blue lights and red designation points are unique. The feel of driving it screams quality. Tight, respectable acceleration at low speeds, and surprisingly quick response over 75 mph. This car does the German heritage proud. Being a Volkswagen, it is also reasonably priced in the $20's.
Overall a great car
After studying this and other publications, we came to the decision that the Passat was the car for us. We choose the GLS 1.8 for its fuel economy and added the Luxury Package. The side curatin airbags and traction control weighed heavily in the protection of our children. We have had two fit and finish errors. First of all the child lockout for the power windows didn't depress. Secondly, the dashboard had two small indentations where the dash cover wasn't properly adhered to the underlayment. Both were fixed without any trouble. We absolutely love the car and are looking foward to remaining VW customers.
This is a Bug Mobile
This car replaces the Beetle as the new BUG, as it is so buggy. The electric seats stopped working a week after I bought the damn this. Now the fuel gauge also gave out. What junk.
Passat is great!
My first venture from the Honda line in 15 years and I'm glad I made it. This car is a dream to drive. I've made two trips of 12 hours each way to see family and the Passat made it relaxing. The sound system is sweet to the ear.
'03 Passat GLX (5A)
I believe that the Passat is the best 4 door family sedan for the money (compared to Honda (didn't care for the '03 Accord redesign), Toyota, and Acura (TL Type-S didn't do it for me)- it DOESN'T compare to domestic products). A quality German-engineered and built car, many features for the money (interior design and fit and finish alone make this a wonderful car), safety (side curtain air bags, etc.), and good looks to boot. May be a few $K more than Japanese cars, but once you drive one, you'll understand why. I came out of a BMW and wanted to stay with German quality, reliability, etc. and feel that this is a good compromise.
Electrical nightmare
Love the looks and driveability of car but will never buy another VW. I have had one electrical issue after another. Repair costs are high. UNDEPENDABLE!
Best Car In Price Range, By Far
The Passat is very quick "off the line" in every day driving, and that there is more than sufficient speed to merge and pass on the highway. The car also cruises quite comfortably at 70-90 mph. The seats in the car (eight-way power) are extremely comfortable and very supportive during aggressive driving. However, everyone has a different back- end - some of my friends prefer softer seats than those in the Passat. On value - you get an all-wheel-drive car with gobs of luxury features for under $31k (see below). I've not owned the car long enough to discuss reliability. We'll see.
2003 GLX
Fun to drive but Lots of road noise. Comfort is excellent. Bad Triptonic future
2003 Volkswagen Passat 1,8T
We bought this passat brand new, fun to drive, looks very sharp but kinda noisy and very poorly built, we got 5 recalls within a 2 years- fuel p pump, brake light switch, heated seats burned that was recall, factory heat shield had a recall stating it could start a fire in the engine, the stereo system read "error" within the first months of purchase (warranty), brakes needed replacing around 20k. Transmission doesn't feel reliable, got an oil change guy told me I had engine sludge building up ($120) to clean, water pump+thermostat replaced at 36k, last night I was driving then the check engine light started blinking and car started shaking (misfire?) and noise at 42,500 I think its done.
Love It!!!
Wasn't sure if I was going to like a 4 Cylinder after having a Loaded GLX VR6 for 7 Years, but I love it. The Tiptronic transmission is smoother and more responsive than the one in my wife's C Class Mercedes. All the extra space is awesome, especially with a new baby. The safety features are very comforting.4 Wheel, ABS, Traction Control,Electronic Stabilization/ Front, side and curtain airbags all for $23,000. The rear seatbelt locks and there are tether hooks on the backs of the seat and anchors underneath them, making car seat installation a breeze.
A satisfied owner
More power than most small 8 cylinders; standard equipment is better than most luxury cars. I've own BMW, Mercedes, several Lexus cars, but this is the most fun car I've ever had.
NEVER BUY A VW !!!!
I bought vw passat 03 as certified used and had a very bad experience. The only reason I bought the car was because of its sexy interior and exterior(silver). Last 4 yrs, I had nothing but bad experience, done every service regularly, almost every time the vw dealer finds some problem costing anywhere from $300.00 to $1500.00 for that repair or this repair. I was driving probably about 50 miles a month as I had a Honda Civic. After about 3 yrs of use, I was worried and purchased a top vw platinum warranty, but the problems didn't stop nor was any part/problem covered by this worthless warranty - i paid about $2000 for this warranty. NEVER BUYING A VW AGAIN.
Can't go wrong with this car!!
This car walks talks and acts like one that is much more expensive. From the cool night-time lighting to all the thoughful touches, to the cool trip computer, to the steering wheel controls. Did I mention the leather - not like the cheap hides on a nissan/infiniti. This car is an Audi without the dual zone climate control and four rings. 1.8 w/ five speed is great, still breaking in but it can move the car with some authority, always asked if its a 6 cyl.
Low profile, low cost ownership
I've owned this midsized sedan for almost two and half years now. I bought it used with 40K miles on the ODO. At 52 K miles I've replaced a CV joint from an aftermarket parts supplier. The cost was far cheaper than dealership prices. Parts the were replaced under VW warranty were: the VW engine cover emblem, rear trunk struts, side blinker lights & rear ashtray. This car corners well with the right type of tires installed. I replaced the cheap tires that came with this car from the dealership and the difference was noticeable. Parts are best bought from online suppliers to save on cost if you plan to keep this vehicle for at least 10 years.
midsize for $25000
I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and performance of this car.