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Used 2003 Volkswagen Passat Consumer Reviews

4.5 out of 5 stars
592 reviews

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2.63 out of 5 stars

problem after problem

j, 04/14/2009
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought this car brand new and each yer I have had to pay out at least 2,000 or more a year for repairs, now my car needs a new engine. My car stayed in the shop for 4 mths at a time I have had to put my car in the shop at least 3 time a year

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3.13 out of 5 stars

UnGermanlike Engineering

Brian, 01/28/2010
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Wagon (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Worst car we have had for frequent & expensive repairs. Now at 73,000 miles. Since 60,000 we have spent a ridiculous $6,000 on repairs. AC compressor and evaporator $3000,timing belt repair $1400. Brakes $800. Our air bag warning light is now on $400 to fix. VW service told us that after warranty "It's your problem." Mercedes repairs are same or less-less labor charges since better design.

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3.25 out of 5 stars

I miss my Honda Civic

Carpentier, 10/15/2002
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I have four separate rattles. I can hear two rattles in the dash idling at a stop light from the engine vibration even with the stereo on. The transmission has a mind of its own. Shifting is often rough. I averaged only 16 mpg for the first 600 miles.

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5 out of 5 stars

I love my Passat

yuhuei, 02/22/2003
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I was searching all the informations about the Jetta and Passat last year when I was almost going to buy the Jetta. I saw many complains on the Jetta, part of the reasons because are made in Mexico. However, I bought the Passat, so far I am really happy and didn't regreat at all. That's good sight!!

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3.5 out of 5 stars

Looks Good/Bad Mechanical Experience

jumpman, 02/22/2003
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Did lots of homework.Mechanical nightmare. Poor warranty. Problems include replacement of $1,300 electrical part in 3 months, replacement of brakes in 1st year, engine knock and piston replacement in year, engine vacuum hose in need of replacement @ 36,000 miles, both headlights replaced and engine related recall. Everything done to manufacturer specifications, including use of more expensive premium gas.

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