Used 2003 Volkswagen Passat Consumer Reviews
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Great ride and suspension
riverdance, 12/04/2003
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLX 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
A nice car all around. Had a Maxima before. Not quite the performane of a Maxima but more refined on the road with good suspension travel and ver quite ride. Nice sound system. Great paint and interior refinement.
Good overall , but could be better.
Motoman69, 12/15/2003
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have enjoyed this car and it has served me well. However, like any car out there, it could use some improvements. As a whole, this is a very reliable car and should be considered when one is in the market for a family car.
2003 Volkswagen Passat for sale near you
Showing 3 of 19 listings
- GLS 1.8T SedanMSRP: $2,499166 mi away
- GLX 4Motion WagonMSRP: $4,695266 mi away
- GLS 1.8T SedanMSRP: $4,995297 mi away
See all 19 listings
Passat 4motion 6cyl
allnode, 02/07/2003
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLX 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We only have the car for a week. Put in about a couple of hundred miles. So not sure yet about long term reliability. So far, we love its handling and its 4motion traction. Love its ability to take sharp corner and also great accelaration.
Excellent car that I have ever own
Velu, 12/10/2003
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Wagon (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Its a wonderful car to drive, comfort and own. Never felt more confortable with any car in my life
Love the car
sherryV, 09/22/2002
2003 Volkswagen Passat GL Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Love the car. It is a dream to drive. We had a 98 Honda Accord and compared to what we were driving , I really love this car. Its so far my favorite in price you can't go wrong.
W8
VWguy2003, 12/22/2003
2003 Volkswagen Passat W8 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
What can I say, my previous car was a V6 GLX Passat and that car was almost perfect except that it didn't have enough power nor did I have the 4motion AWD. The W8 has abundant amount of power and the AWD system make this car stable as a rock in slippery conditions. I don't think I can go back to another 2WD vehicle again!
First VW and will not be last!
Sigem, 02/09/2003
2003 Volkswagen Passat GL Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I personally did not have enough moola to upgrade into the higher models, but needed more room than the Jetta. The Passat GL was the perfect car for me. It had everything I needed and even more! The power is kind of weak, but for the price and the budget I was completely satisfied. I was also comparing it against the new Honda Accord and Camry but those look boring! I also want to add that the dealership I would highly recommend you guys to goto Lithia Volkswagen in Concord and meet up with Hoang. The didnt pressure me into any other models, and were really nice. So if your in the Bay Area, California go take a look at these guys.
Stay away
cuse311, 03/24/2009
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had this car for almost 6 years now and while it was fun during the warranty period, lately it has been a real drain on my finances to keep it running. Problem after problem keeps showing up from sensors, coils, thermostat. If you like to be punished then go out and buy one, otherwise stay away. This car is very unreliable and very, very expensive to fix.
Looks Good in the Shop
balewis, 08/02/2003
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had the car one year and already had to replace the starter. The A/C would not turn off. One recall repair. And several rattles in the dash. The VW charm is quickly wearing off. The VW Service is a nightmare.
Merc 4 VW price
Nassar, 11/05/2002
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great car. Drives and handles like a Benz. Gives you a tight and solid feeling around curves and zigzagging.
my vw
jean maria, 08/04/2003
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS V6 Fwd 4dr Wagon (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
the car preformance is more then i thought it could be. this is my first new car and i am glad it is a vw. we bought ours after my sister got hers, after us my in-laws purchaced theirs and love it also.
2003 Wagon great car
BillfromNY, 11/17/2008
2003 Volkswagen Passat GL Fwd 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
2003 Passat GL Wagon, 5 sp MT. Heated seats and monsoon audio. Great car. My wife drove for 5 years 98,000 miles and we bought her a new 08 Passat sedan (arrest me red) with a 6 sp MT. This car is new to me since I only drove it a handful of times since 2003. Ride: Great Performance: Great Comfort: Great Safety: You feel very secure in a VW Reliability: Fine, we have a very good dealer near by that is a pleasure to deal with.
Least reliable car I've ever owned
Derwinator, 05/04/2009
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Everything you've read about the Passat is true - they are great to drive, look awesome, and have excellent fit and finish. Have really enjoying DRIVING this car, but can't say the same for my experience with its reliability. Hands down the most expensive and problematic car I've ever owned. If it wasn't in the shop for a $85 oil change (synthetic required by VW) it was in for a service recall or a problem like water leaking into the passenger side for the 4th time. Finally, the water pump failed at 78K mile destroying the timing belt and engine in the process. I've had enough and this car was sold as soon as I got it back from the repair shop. I'm in a Honda again and happy.
Fun Car w/Flaws
Moniquer, 08/04/2003
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just finished first month's lease on my new 2003 Passat and I must say I have mixed feelings regarding the car. It's a great driving car who's engine might be a might small for the transmission it's mated to. The car has a rich European style interior with infinitely adjustable front seats providing superior comfort.
Great Car
MAnish, 11/07/2002
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Its a Great Feeling
Excellent, sporty, usefull wagon
nathenso, 02/27/2003
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLX 4Motion AWD 4dr Wagon (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Though we have only driven our VW for 3 months, we are exceptionally pleased with the quality, solidity, comfort, and ease to manuver. As far as reliability, we have had no trouble. Time will tell
Love our family wagon
lovemywagon, 01/02/2004
2003 Volkswagen Passat GL Fwd 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Purchasing the Volkswagon Passat Wagon was a compromise between me and my husband. We previously owned an SUV which I hated from day one. I wanted a comfortable sedan. He thought we needed more space. We were also in the market for a new car for him. He got the sedan at the same time. We love them both. There are a couple of pet peeves I have about the vehicle - the blinker doesn't shut off until the steering wheel is almost in a straigt position and I find the windshield wiper controls hard to maneuver - but minor details compared to everything else. The back seat is also a bit tight with two car seats back there.
Never again
John from Shoreview, 02/07/2008
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My Passat was purchased used w/ 17k miles. It now has 66k miles. The driver power window failed immediately and required 3 dealer visits. The fuel pump failed at 40k in traffic. It eats tires. It eats rear brakes. Maintenance and repair costs are ridiculous. Handles wonderfully, is fast, and has beautiful exterior lines but I consider it unreliable enough to not use for long road trips. I've never been to the dealership when there was not at least one person yelling about a failure or bill. Runs poorly below 0 degrees Fahrenheit. Monsoon stereo is awesome.
The Good Life...
glxpassat, 01/02/2004
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Edmunds.com is a great site, it has helped me a lot over the past few months with all the information provided. I just purchased a 2003 Passat (GLX sedan) and I really have no complaints about it. I love everything about this car, I feel blessed to be able to drive a car with such luxurious features. The only thing I'm not too happy about is the gas mileage, it's quite poor (avg 15mpg) and living in NY, gas prices have been known to climb over the $2.00 pg mark. On the other hand, I'm driving a very nice car. I will be submitting another review in about six months, hopefully my views won't change much...
VW Quality
joeM, 02/11/2003
2003 Volkswagen Passat GL Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I had 6 japanese cars prior to the Passat, the Passat does not come remotely close in regards to reliability. First 5 months had to go for repair of Homelink twice, Tire had a slow leak due to counterweight installed to close to valve stem. last weekend got stuck 250 miles from home with a problem known to VW for a while, had to be towed and repair took 6 hours to replace a defective coil. There is a VW advisory out on these coils, but they still refused to replace the other 3 in my car. the comment from the Corporate office is that I have to break down again for the second time before they replace the remaining defective parts.
love it, but...
kschel, 01/05/2004
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Fun to drive despite appreciable turbo lag off the line. Have had numerous little problems which the dealership has been able to fix. This is certainly no Toyota in terms of build quality or reliability, but then again it isn't a mere "transportation appliance"--actually has personality. I wouldn't have bought it without VW extending the base warranty to 48 months. Wonderful interior, nice quality feel.
Its ok with a W8
rough driver in MT, 12/25/2009
2003 Volkswagen Passat W8 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Yea I read a lot of the complaints that these cars have but have you ever noticed that the complaints are only about the 1.8T? We have a 03 W8 passat and were the type that takes a car anywhere. Are passat goes through a lot of abuse because where we live has a lot of rough roads and unpredictable weather and it still runs ok. So if you are going to get one these cars get a W8 with 4motion because these cars are very heavy and do need the extra power and the 1.8T may do the job but stresses the engine to much causing parts to wear faster.
Passat has been a disappointment
Mac, 09/22/2005
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The Passat is an okay car, but it is overpriced for what you get. The engine is by far the strength of this car. It effortlessly moves on the highway and its stability at high speed can lull the driver into quickly exceeding the posted speed limits. The transmission is poor. During the three years I have owned the car, I have had many instances in city traffic where the transmission will slip as I am slowing and then need to accelerate, causing the car to lurch. The leather interior is also poor. It is not terribly soft and wears more like vinyl than leather. The rapid depreciation of this car versus others in the so called class is also a big minus.
exactly what i expected
ucjrh1989, 02/14/2003
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
it took me quite awhile to find one of these things at the right price but i have thoroughly enjoyed the experience thus far. i kind of prepared myself for the inevitable freak repair but in my case it was simply the stereo going dead at the 10000 mile mark. if you know how to drive a manual, definitely go that route with this car. this was a great trade-up from my jetta and i look forward to seeing what they come up with next.
I'm Hooked
ILuVmyVW, 09/23/2002
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just turned in my 99 Passat for a 2003. I love this car! Why spend the extra money for an Audi? Hondas can't compare. Smooth ride, excellent handling, excellent braking, safety - bar none, looks and feels like a luxury car.
My First Volkswagen
Brad Lucas, 01/23/2004
2003 Volkswagen Passat GL Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Always drove 4x4 trucks until I test drove the Passat. Needless to say, I drove it off the lot that same day. Handles great in ALL weather conditions. Very comfortable after long trips and has the power you need when you need it.
Nothing But Problems
JJP143, 05/19/2004
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had nothing but problems with my Passat....After taking it to the dealership for service 7 times now since I bought it for numerous problems I am now looking into Lemon Laws as Volkswagen keeps insisting that "The car is working to manufacturers specifications". What a joke!! I have had it in for service 3 times on the same issue and the dealer cannot fix the problem...Not the quality I expected from Volkswagen nor for paying the amount of money I did!
I vowed I would not take the plunge
JHGSaratoga, 01/27/2004
2003 Volkswagen Passat W8 4Motion AWD 4dr Wagon (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've owned 5 new VW's in the last 5 years (1999 Jetta GLX - the best by far, 2000 Jetta GLX, 2001 Cabrio GLX, 2002 Passat GLX 4-motion Wagon, and 2003 Passat W8 4-motion Wagon). The best performing car was - hands down - the 1999 GLX. Do not take the plunge on the W8 for the extra $7K. The GLX Passat Wagon is just as good a performer as the W8! I'm considering switching to Audi Allroad 2.7.
It fits nicely into my garage
Mr. Moos, 02/18/2003
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have now owned my 1.8T Passat for roughly 1 month and I'm enjoying every minute of it. I've heard about some of the problems with the coil and hope that since mine is 2003 it won't become an issue. Everyday I try and find excuses to take long drives in the mountains and on the hwy because it has great pickup for a 170 HP powerplant. When that turbo kicks in, I can really feel it. I recommend anyone that's looking for a new sedan to test drive the manual first then the automatic. They both have a nice feel.
silent beaut
happydub, 02/06/2004
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
what's not to like? classic subdued styling, the 1.8T engine, the 5-speed, and the interior comfort. I thought I wanted the V6 but after driving that and the 1.8 I went with the four; much better fuel economy than the V6 and just as much apparent power. good in snow despite the very average factory Conti tires. reliability might be a worry as it's in the shop for a "check engine" light but that's it so far. avoid the tan interior if you care about how dirty it'll get!
2003 GL Wagon 1.8L Manual
philzone, 09/27/2002
2003 Volkswagen Passat GL Fwd 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very happy with my purchase overall. Unfortuately, one wheel was unbalanced by 2.5 oz. when I drove it off the lot, but did not notice until I was on the interstate. Initial gas mileage is not quite as good as expected, perhaps more time will tell. Also was extremely difficult to find as a 5-speed manual, but I eventually got what I wanted after waiting till 2003 models. Excellent and responsive engine and tight suspension, with the cargo room I was looking for without buying an SUV or minivan.
Diamond in the rough
kory_p, 02/18/2003
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It was only coincidence that I stumbled onto the volswagon dealership and found a true diamond in the rough. I was previously looking at a four door sedan and a sporty two door coupe from other car makers. Then I saw the passat GLS 1.8T and realized I could have the extra space and the sporty drive all in one.
I love this car!
mmcdonnell, 02/15/2004
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I really can't say enough good things about this car. I got the manual transmission and I'm glad I did. The torque is a bit weak until about 2200 rpms, so it's nice to have that freedom. It's comfortable all around and very nice on the highway. It's a good city car and I'm averaging about 30 mpg. (85% highway). On long highway trips, I have exceeded 34 mpg.
GREAT CAR
dksbatch, 08/05/2003
2003 Volkswagen Passat GL Fwd 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love our wagon and I test drove a lot of wagons before we bought this one. It is reliable, sporty and perfect for someone downsizing from an SUV (we had an Explorer) It is the safest car out there and you are not limited to a trunk. The back opens up and the back seats lay flat giving plenty of room.
In love with my '03 Silverblue beauty!
Maiden, 02/21/2003
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLX Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought the car in August and I love to drive it! Many standard features that are optional on other competitors cars, ultra safe, dig the German touches-first aid kit cabinet in the trunk, chrome tie downs, etc. Fabulous car, I will do it again!
Love My Passat 1.8T
jeremy, 05/07/2006
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my Passat. I bought this car new and have never had a single problem. After buying a new Malibu, then an Accord and having problems early on I have to say that I'm a VW fan for life!
Love my VW!!!
grassyknollgunman13, 10/16/2002
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The 1.8T 5speed is great. Not too expensive, and a great car. Rides nice, got some power and a great soundsystem. (Monsoon) The only 2 things Im not crazy about are the placement and design of the sideview mirror control, (knob on the door panel)and the front seat center arm rest. Its nice that it slides forward to be adjustable but w/ a manual tranny, it moves too much while shifting. Other than that, I would highly recomend this car.
Best Buy!!!
AO Schwarz, 11/06/2002
2003 Volkswagen Passat GL Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It's only been a couple of weeks since I passed over the new 2003 Accord in favor of a 2003 1.8T Passat. So far, I have absolutely no regrets. Inital quality and performance are outstanding and it's a joy to look at inside and out. The German look and "feel" are evident throughout this vehicle. The manufacturer recommends premium gas, which does seem to be necessary. Two tank fulls of mid-grade have provided a measureable difference in performance. Oh, well...it's worth the extra few bucks in gas! FYI - My car is Fresco Green, which looks hideous on the VW website, but stellar in person.
unbelievable
aik, 02/27/2003
2003 Volkswagen Passat W8 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is the best car I have ever owned. Its like driving a cloud. The speed will become legendary. It is a family car and a finely tuned racing machine. It is a pal, a friend and so much fun to drive. It almost knows what you expect of it and it delivers. The v8 engine is unlike any you have seen before. It takes your breath away.
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
Passat 2003
martin25, 08/06/2003
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is very easy to handle, rides like a dream. Is very fast and you can pass very easily.
GLS wagon
sevans, 10/02/2002
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
First off, this is a great car to be in and to drive. Driving longer distances in my old car would exhaust me but the passat invigorates. I am quite happy with the car. It's sporty but sleek, and shows that only fools need to buy a SUV. Only one complaint, on rare occasion my directional indicator will rapidly flash so this is some electircal/mechanical problem.
the best for the money
jorge zamacona, 08/06/2003
2003 Volkswagen Passat W8 4Motion AWD 4dr Sedan (4.0L 8cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
the car is one great package. has allthe necessary bells and whistles. great handling and extremely responsive engine. gets you out of tight spots with a simple touch of the gas peddal. the 4 motion is truly the best. Great in corners and engine even on auto slows down and shifts down according to speed and rpm. this is the total package. yo get 100 cents for every Dollar.
#1 Car You Can Buy
Jessica Gawel, 08/06/2003
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a great car!
VW Passat SW
MAPSS, 10/27/2002
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T 4dr Wagon (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My Passat SW is very fun to drive. I recently drove down to Florida with it and it was very comfortable. I just wish I had more power (but thats why you can buy it in V6 or W8 and if you can afford it I highly recommend it. Overall this is the best station wagon in the market!
A Passat Lemon
jdsj691, 08/17/2003
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS V6 Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I went back to VW after years of trying other vehicles. The reason I went back was because in the 1980's I had a Jetta GL that I put 125,000 miles on and had no issues whatsoever, except for the usual maintenance, etc.. The Passat I bought was not the same quality at all. This past year I had it in the garage for a total of 2 months for an electrical defect that costs me $500 dollars to fix even with the extended warranty. The frustrating factor is that it's STILL not fixed. So I am limiting my driving to around town until the lease is up in the next 6 months. I won't be buying another VW in my lifetime!!
What a fun car!
Big K, 08/17/2003
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have only had my car a few weeks, but what a fun car it is! As I'm still breaking it in, my mileage is improving with every tank (28mpg on the last one). The tiptronic feature is awesome. If you hit a stretch of road that you want to switch to standard shifting, you pop it over and drive! The engineers who designed this vehicle thought of just about everything!
Great Car
memikl, 10/07/2002
2003 Volkswagen Passat GL Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
A little wind noise, but other than that a truly great car to drive and own.
My Passat
smity67, 08/17/2003
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS 1.8T Fwd 4dr Sedan (1.8L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Everything is great with my passat, but I wish it had more horse power. I realize they make the 8 cylinder now but Ive got the 1.8T and it doesnt have enough.
Passat according to Mac
BobMach, 08/17/2003
2003 Volkswagen Passat GLS V6 Fwd 4dr Sedan (2.8L 6cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Interior Dash guages very hard to read during daylight hours. An additional sun visor to provide both forward and side protection. Tremendous road feeling at all speeds.Very good acceleration, roomy interior and trunk. Very difficult to find a bad rating.