2 Star Reviews for 2003 Volkswagen Jetta

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.42/5 Average
566 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Volkswagen eliminates the GLX trim level for wagons -- this means that those who prefer the VR6 engine to the 1.8T engine will have to stick with the sedan. As a consolation, GLS wagons equipped with the 1.8T are eligible for a premium package, which bundles traditional GLX content like power seats, automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, rain-sensing wipers, wood interior trim and a trip computer. Additionally, VW has made the 1.8T available on both the GL sedan and wagon. GLs now have power windows and mirrors, cruise control and a CD player, while the GLS gets a standard sunroof and alloy wheels. All Jettas are available with stability control (ESP), heated seats and the Monsoon sound system. Other changes include a ULEV rating for the 2.0-liter four-cylinder, redesigned cupholders and backlit buttons on the standard stereo head unit.

Pros:
  • Powerful 1.8T and VR6 engines, fuel-efficient TDI powerplant, fun to drive, comfortable ride, rich interior materials, loads of standard features, solid build quality.
Cons:
  • More expensive than most small sedans and wagons, tight rear-seat legroom.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 566.00
  • Worst Decision Ive ever made! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I heard so many great reviews about the Jetta. So, I decided to get it, without a test drive (WHY!?). Im so dissatified with the car. Its very noisy, loud engine, doesnt accelerate quickly, no leg room, cup holders are a nusiance, defroster does nothing, etc....

  • Worst Car Ever - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    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.

  • Dont buy it! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I regret buying my my 2002 1.8T Jetta. Within 3 months the engine went down, not once but twice. They claimed to have fixed the problem at the first time, but a week after, the engine went down again. It was the coils that they said caused the problem but they didn’t replace all of them the first time even though they knew they were not right for the car. Another problem - Just a few days ago, my A/C was broken. Since all the dealerships are so busying fixing other more serious problems like engine and falling-apart windows, they wont have time for my A/C problem until after this summer is over.

  • BEWARE OF THE JETTA!!! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Well I HAD to have a Jetta, even though my husband didnt want it. I hate when he is right! CV axle, mass air flow sensor, radio,struts,2catalytic converters in 3 months. WORST OF ALL... the ABS lights from HELL!! I have had the car since May, its now Aug. Since the ABS light has been on, the car has ZERO power. No one seems to know why. I give up. I have it up for sale, I almost feel guilty selling it to anyone. There has been several electrical problems as well. Not at all what I expected.

  • Cant Wait to Get Rid of My Jetta - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    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!

  • A costly piece of junk - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    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 wont go up. Guys, think twice before buying this car.

  • Worst Car EVER! - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have had nothing but problems with this car! The water pump, pistons, cylinders, locks, windows, suspension, (and the list goes on) have gone OUT on me numerous times!! I go to the mechanic at least 2 times a year, and average spending $400-$500 each trip. I hear a constant LOUD rattling sound when I drive on the freeway, and hear loud squeaking noises when i go over speed bumps, and make wide turns, & no one can fix it! I WOULD NOT recommend this car!

  • Never Again - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Worst Car I ever Had. I wish I would of rather purchased another Toyota or a new Honda.

  • jetta - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    The car is the biggest piece of junk. The car has had many problems. The dealership and maker are not very accodomating in dealing with problems.

  • Make lemonade - 2003 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Bought 2003 Jetta GLS on 3/2/03. 3 no starts due to defective original battery. Replaced battery in May. CD player reads "disk error" & fails to operate, the car haphazardly lurches when shifting from "reverse" to "drive", & chrome piece on parking brake has come loose resulting in a constant "chattering" sound. Fuel economy is lackluster. Switch to the fuel filler cap SNAPPED off and broke. Couldn’t gas up car. I should have bought another Honda Civic!!

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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