2003 Volkswagen Golf problems
The Volkswagen Golf is a compact car/small family car (C-segment) produced by the German automotive manufacturer Volkswagen since 1974, marketed worldwide across eight generations, in various body configurations and under various nameplates – including as the Volkswagen Rabbit in the United States and Canada (Mk1 and Mk5), and as the Volkswagen Caribe in Mexico (Mk1).
The original Golf Mk1 was a front-engined, front-wheel drive replacement for the air-cooled, rear-engined, rear-wheel drive Volkswagen Beetle. Historically, the Golf is Volkswagen's best-selling model and is among the world's top three best-selling models, with more than 35 million units sold as of 2019.
Initially, most Golfs were 3-door hatchbacks. Other variants include a 5-door hatchback, estate (Variant, from 1993), convertible (Cabriolet and Cabrio, 1979–2002, Cabriolet, 2011–present), and a Golf-based saloon, called the Jetta, Vento (from 1992) or Bora (from 1999). The Golf covers economy to high-performance market segments.
The Golf has won awards, including the World Car of the Year in 2009, with the Mk6 and in 2013 with the Mk7. Along with the Renault Clio and the Vauxhall Astra, the Golf is one of only three cars to have won European Car of the Year twice, in 1992 and 2013. The Golf has made the annual Car and Driver 10Best list multiple times. The Mk7 won the Motor Trend Car of the Year award in 2015, and the Mk1 GTI also won the award in 1985. The Mk4 won for the best-selling car in Europe in 2001.
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Common 2003 Volkswagen Golf problems
The 2003 Volkswagen Golf is known for several common problems based on complaints from owners. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues:
- Timing Belt Replacement: The timing belt in the 2003 Volkswagen Golf should be replaced every 90,000 kilometers for 1.9-liter diesel engines and every 120,000 kilometers for 1.8-liter turbocharged petrol engines. Failing to replace the timing belt can result in catastrophic engine failure, making regular inspections and timely replacements crucial.
- Electrical System Glitches: Some owners have reported issues with the touchscreen infotainment system, which may be slow to respond or fail to respond at all. Software updates may help address these issues, but if the problem persists, it may be necessary to consult an auto electrician for expert advice.
- Faulty Crash Sensors: Volkswagen issued a recall for some 2003 Golf models due to faulty crash sensors in the airbag and restraint system. Faulty sensors may not deploy the airbags as intended in the event of a crash, posing a significant safety risk. Affected vehicles should be inspected and repaired by a Volkswagen dealership or authorized service center.
- Door Handle and Lock Failure: The door handles and locks in the 2003 Volkswagen Golf are known to fail, particularly in DSG automatic models. This can be due to issues with the mechanism itself or the wiring, and repairs can cost anywhere between £150 and £250. Regular inspection and maintenance can help prevent these issues from occurring.
- Rear Spring Cracking: The Golf is prone to cracking its rear springs, particularly if the vehicle is heavily loaded or driven on rough roads. This can lead to a lowered ride height at the rear or creaking noises while driving. Replacing the cracked springs is a relatively inexpensive fix, but it's essential to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage.
These common problems should be considered when purchasing a used 2003 Volkswagen Golf. Regular inspections, maintenance, and timely repairs can help ensure the vehicle's longevity and reliability.
Is the 2003 Golf a good car?
Reliable and fuel efficient, enough leg room in the front but much less in the second row. Only 90HP (1.9L TDI) but fast enough to keep up with the traffic.
How long do 2003 VW Golf last?
The VW Golf is a strong and trustworthy car that is well known for its grit and determination, so it's unsurprising to find out that they can do up to 200,000 miles before the engine begins to reach its upper limit.
Is a Volkswagen Golf a reliable car?
Its reliability score was 90.4%. As a car brand, VW ranked 22nd out of 32 manufacturers. The largest concern is electric issues, of which 5% of owners that took part in the survey cited as something they've experienced with their Golf. Problems with the exhaust followed behind, with 3.3% of owners commenting on this.
How long will a VW Golf engine last?
Most Volkswagen vehicles will last between 100,000 and 200,000 miles, although well-kept models can last even longer than that. All VWs are remarkably reliable vehicles. When it comes to longevity, the Golf, Passat, Jetta, and Beetle are known to be particularly long-lasting.
How long do 2003 VW Golf last?
The VW Golf is a strong and trustworthy car that is well known for its grit and determination, so it's unsurprising to find out that they can do up to 200,000 miles before the engine begins to reach its upper limit.
Is a Volkswagen Golf a reliable car?
Its reliability score was 90.4%. As a car brand, VW ranked 22nd out of 32 manufacturers. The largest concern is electric issues, of which 5% of owners that took part in the survey cited as something they've experienced with their Golf. Problems with the exhaust followed behind, with 3.3% of owners commenting on this.
What year is the best Golf to get?
Overall, the Volkswagen Golf is a decent choice if you want a compact vehicle. We recommend going with 1997, 2006, 2014, 2018, 2020, or 2021 to maximize every mile.
How reliable are old golfs?
The Volkswagen Golf is generally a reliable car. In our 2023 What Car? Reliability Survey, petrol models came 18th out of 29 cars in the family car category, while diesel ones actually ranked higher – 14th. Petrol models received a reliability rating of 90.4%, while diesel ones 92.5%.
2003 Volkswagen Golf car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volkswagen Golf problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Seats problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Volkswagen Golf vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Volkswagen Golf
The NHTSA has received 31 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Volkswagen Golf. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Volkswagen Golf vehicles.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-25
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 9bwbk61j234
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The car just started on fire while I was driving and nearly killed me and my boyfriend lucky someone was honking and flagging down and when we tried stopping the car wouldn't brake and we had to jump out when it was still rolling. We were bout to get on the high way lucky someone stopped us be we did so.
AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-02
- VIN: 9BWDE61J434
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE AIRBAG CONTROL MODULE HAS FAILED AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. WITHOUT IT, THERE IS NO GUARANTEE THAT THE AIRBAGS WILL FUNCTION PROPERLY, IF AT ALL, IN THE EVENT OF AN ACCIDENT. VOLKSWAGEN REFUSES TO EVEN HELP WITH THE OVER $1,000.00 REPAIR COST. (THE AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT CAME ON, SO THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN IN FOR DIAGNOSTICS.)
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-22
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 9BWGP61J034
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I HAD THE HATCH OPEN ON MY GOLF AND STARTED TO SMELL AN ELECTRICAL FIRE. I SEEN SMOKE COMING FROM THE CARGO LIGHT AND WHEN I OPENED THE TAILLIGHT ACCESS PANEL THERE WAS A SMALL FIRE THAT I IMMEDIATLEY PUT OUT. THANKFULLY I CAUGHT IT IN TIME AND DIDN'T CLOSE THE HATCH AND WALK AWAY. IT COULD HAVE BEEN MUCH WORSE. I HAVE PICTURES I CAN SEND UPON REQUEST.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-10
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 9BWFK61J534
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: MY SON WAS PARKING HIS CAR AT A STATE PARK AND DRIVING LESS THAN 2 MILES A HOUR WHEN THE PASSENGER AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. SEVERAL PEOPLE HEARD THE LOUD SOUND AND RAN OVER TO SEE IF ANYONE WAS HURT. HIS GIRLFRIEND'S ARM BECAME RED, WITH A RASH AND SWOLLEN. THE SEAT AND HEADLINER ARE NOW DAMAGED, AND IT WOULD COST MORE TO REPLACE THE AIRBAGS, SEAT AND HEADLINER THAN THE CAR IS WORTH. THE INSURANCE CO WILL NOT COVER THE COST BECAUSE THERE WAS NO ACCIDENT. NOW, HE WILL NEED TO PURCHASE ANOTHER VEHICLE. THERE HAVE BEEN AT LEAST 107 REPORTED COMPLAINTS REGARDING AIRBAGS FOR 2001-2003 VW GOLF AND JETTA. IF MY SON HAD BEEN DRIVING ON A MAIN ROAD OR HIGHWAY, THIS INCIDENT COULD HAVE CAUSED AN ACCIDENT. THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL ON THE AIRBAGS BEFORE SOMEONE GETS SERIOUSLY HURT, IF THAT HASN'T ALREADY OCCURRED.
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-01-01
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DITTO ON THE "NHTSA ID NUMBER: 10252376". MY 2003 BASE MODEL GOLF'S AIRBAGS WERE TURNED OFF (AIRBAG LIGHT ON), AND THE ISSUE WAS ONE OF THE 3 SENSORS IN THE DRIVER'S SEATBELT LATCH STOPPED WORKING. IT'S BEEN MANY YEARS AGO (I BOUGHT IT NEW), AND I DON'T REMEMBER WHAT YEAR THAT WAS, BUT I DID CONTACT VW ON THIS, AND BELIEVE I ALSO SENT AN E-MAIL TO BOTH NHTSA & IIHS ON THIS. THIS IS AN INEXCUSABLE DESIGN (GM IS HAVING A SIMILAR ISSUE WITH ITS IGNITION SWITCH & AIRBAGS BEING TURNED OFF). THE SEATBELT LATCH WAS REPLACED, AND HAS BEEN WORKING FINE FOR YEARS NOW. IT CURRENTLY HAS 167,000+ MILES ON IT. IT DOES HAVE SOME POSITIVES. THE FRONT BRAKES HAVE NEVER BEEN REPLACED, AND DIDN'T HAVE TO REPLACE THE REAR BRAKES UNTIL 90,000. THE CLUTCH HAS NEVER BEEN REPLACED, AND STILL WORKS GOOD (EVEN WITH A TON OF STOP-N-GO TRAFFIC). THERE SHOULD BE A LEGAL REQUIREMENT THAT ALL OF THE AIRBAGS ARE ALWAYS ON, NO MATTER WHAT, WHEN THE VEHICLE IS MOVING, WHETHER OR NOT THE IGNITION IS ON, THE SEATBELTS ARE LATCH, ETC. ALSO, THERE SHOULD BE A LEGAL REQUIREMENT THAT ALL REAR TURN SIGNAL LIGHTS MUST BE BRIGHT ORANGE, NOT RED. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE. A BRIGHT ORANGE LIGHT STANDS OUT AS A TURN SIGNAL, WHEREAS A BLINKING RED LIGHT COULD BE THE DRIVER TAPPING ON THE BRAKES. NOT EASY TO TELL WHEN YOU CAN ONLY SEE ONE CORNER OF A VEHICLE. *TR
SUSPENSION,AIR BAGS,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-02-07
- VIN: 9BWFP61J234
- Components: SUSPENSION,AIR BAGS,WHEELS
- Summary: DRIVING LATE AT NIGHT, HIT POTHOLE THAT BADLY DENTED RIGHT FRONT RIM, CAUSED PASSENGER SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAGS TO DEPLOY, FILLING CAR WITH SMOKE AND CUTTING OFF IGNITION. CONTACTED VW OF AMERICA TO ADVISE THEM OF INCIDENT. WILL CONTACT INSURANCE, LOCAL VW DEALER AND COLLISION SHOP FOR ANALYSIS THIS WEEK. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-20
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 9BWKE61J734
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE AIR CONDITIONER, WINDSHIELD WIPERS AND HEADLIGHTS BECAME INOPERABLE, AS WELL AS THE TURN SIGNALS. THE CONTACT PERFORMED REPAIRS TO THE VEHICLE HIMSELF AND REPLACED THE IGNITION SWITCH. THE CONTACT DETECTED THE IGNITION CONNECTOR HOUSING HAD OVERHEATED WHICH CAUSED THE PLASTIC TO MELT. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 88,000. UPDATED 09/27/11*LJ UPDATED 2/23/12 *CN
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-07-17
- VIN: 9BWFK61JX34
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO PARK, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG SUDDENLY DEPLOYED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND THEY STATED THAT THE AIR BAG NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 22,400.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-06-28
- VIN: 9BWBK61J634
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE OVERHEATED DUE TO WATER PUMP FAILURE, REQUIRING WATER PUMP REPLACEMENT. PLASTIC IMPELLER DEGRADED AND FAILED. USE OF PLASTIC FOR IMPELLER IS A DESIGN FLAW IN THE WATER PUMP OTHERWISE MADE OF ALUMINUM, AND SHOULD BE RECALLED AND REPLACED BY VW UNDER WARRANTY. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-20
- VIN: 9BWBK61J034
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 2003 VW GOLF GL-I BOUGHT NEW & AM THE ONLY DRIVER OF IT. AND JUST OVER 80,000 MILES, THE AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT CAME ON. I HAD TO DRIVE IT AROUND FOR OVER A COUPLE OF WEEKS BEFORE ANY OF THE VW DEALERSHIPS WOULD SCHEDULE ME AN APPOINTMENT TO SPEND A COUPLE OF MINUTES TO CONNECT THEIR HAND-HELD DIAGNOSTIC TOOL TO FIND OUT WHAT THE EXACT CAUSE OF TURNING ON THIS LIGHT WAS. (I WENT TO 3 SEPARATE DEALERSHIPS IN 3 DIFFERENT CITIES.) IT TURNED OUT TO BE A DEFECTIVE SEATBELT LATCH SENSOR. EVEN THOUGH THE SEATBELT LIGHT TURNED OFF INDICATING IT WAS LATCHED, THE SAME LATCH ALSO DETERMINES INDEPENDENTLY ON WHETHER OR NOT TO ENABLE THE AIRBAGS. I JUST HAD THIS PART REPLACED TODAY-12/20/08-AT A COST OF OVER $430. I FOUND OUT THAT WHEN THE LATCH "THINKS" THE SEATBELT IS NOT CONNECTED, THAT IT DISABLES ALL OF THE 6 AIRBAGS, MAKING THE CAR THAT I THOUGHT I HAD AT LEAST MOST OF THE AIRBAGS STILL FUNCTIONING, COMPLETELY AIRBAG-LESS. THIS IS A SEVERE SAFETY ISSUE, BY VW'S MANUFACTURE DESIGN TO TURN OFF ALL AIRBAGS BASED ON A SEATBELT LATCH, NOT A MALFUNCTIONING AIRBAG. IF THE LATCH IS GIVING VALID FEED BACK TO TURN OFF THE SEATBELT LIGHT, THEN THERE IS NO REASON TO HAVE A SEPARATE CONTACT IN THIS LATCH FOR THE AIRBAGS THAT DISABLES ALL OF THE AIRBAGS. SAFETY PARTS LIKE AIRBAGS SHOULD ALSO BE REQUIRED TO HAVE THE EXTENDED MANUFACTURER'S WARRANTY LIKE THE SEATBELTS THEMSELVES & THE EMISSION EQUIPMENT LIKE THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER, WHICH IS AROUND 150000 MILES, ISN'T IT? THIS IS AN EXTREMELY POOR & DANGEROUS DESIGN, TO TURN OFF ALL AIRBAGS EVEN THOUGH THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH THEM. BY THE TIME THE AIRBAG LIGHT COMES ON TO WHEN OWNERS CAN GET IT SERVICED, THE OWNERS UNKNOWINGLY ARE DRIVING IN AN UNSAFE VEHICLE THAT HAD ITS WORKING AIRBAGS COMPLETELY TURNED OFF BECAUSE OF A SEATBELT LATCH SWITCH THAT WAS WORKING WELL ENOUGH TO TELL THE SEATBELT LIGHT ON THE DASHBOARD TO TURN OFF. THIS ALONE SHOULD BE ENOUGH TO KEEP ALL OF THE WORKING AIRBAGS FUNCTIONING. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-01
- VIN: 9BWFP61J834
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH ON NORMAL ROAD CONDITIONS, THE BRAKE LIGHTS FAILED. THE GLOW PLUG WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED INTERMITTENTLY ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE FAILURE WAS RELATED TO THE WIRING CIRCUIT IN THE BRAKE SYSTEM. THE TECHNICIAN ORDERED THE PARTS FOR THE REPAIR. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT YET BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 118,000. UPDATED 1/6/09 *CN THE CONSUMER STATED THERE WERE WIRING BUNDLES THAT PASS FROM THE BODY INTO THE REAR HATCH FOR THE CENTER BRAKE LIGHT, WINDSHIELD WIPER AND ELECTRICAL LOCKS. THE WIRES BEND WHENEVER THE HATCH IS OPENED OR CLOSED. THE OPENING AND CLOSING OF THE HATCH, CAUSED THE WIRING TO CRACK AND EVENTUALLY LED TO A SHORT OF A FUSE. UPDATED 01/14/09.*JB
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-11-10
- Fire: 1
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: 1) I TURNED ON MY HEATED SEATS FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE LAST SPRING. 2) ONCE THE SEAT WAS ON FOR LESS THAN 30 SECONDS I FELT A SHARP PAIN IN MY BUTTOCKS AND FELT THE SEAT. THE SEAT WAS VERY HOT AND I TURNED OFF THE HEATED SEAT. THE HEATED SEAT GOT SO HOT IT MELTED A PIECE IN THE SEAT. THE CAR SMELLED LIKE THERE WAS A FIRE IN IT, LIKE WIRES BURNING. I PULLED OVER TO MAKE SURE THE CAR WASN'T ON FIRE. 3) THE HEATED SEAT HAD BEEN RECALLED BY VW AND WAS FIXED IN 2005. THIS WAS THE "FIXED" PART THAT BURNT. I TOOK THE CAR TO THE DEALERSHIP WHERE THE CAR WAS PURCHASED AND THE RECALL WAS FIXED BEFORE. AFTER TAKING MY CAR TO THE SHOP THEY SAID THAT THE SEAT LITERALLY FLAMED UP AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AS IT WASN'T SAFE. THEY STATED THAT I STILL NEEDED TO PAY 25% OF THE LABOR AND PARTS BECAUSE THE RECALL HAD EXPIRED AND THE "FIXED" PART WAS NO LONGER UNDER WARRANTY. VW PAID FOR 65% AND THE DEALERSHIP PAID 10%. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-21
- VIN: 9BWBP61J434
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: MY 2003 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF TDI WAS TAKEN TO APLLEWAY VOLKSWAGEN IN SPOKANE, WASHINGTON FOR A 40K SERVICE AND A CHECK FOR LOSS OF POWER. THE LOSS OF POWER WAS TRACED TO A PLUGGED INTAKE SYSTEM, CAUSED BY THE EGR VALVE SENDING EXHAUST BACK THOUGH THE INTAKE. THE CAR'S WARRANTY WAS STILL VALID AND THE DEALERSHIP REFUSED TO HONOR THE WARRANTY. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-02-12
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLES CAR ALARM CONTINUES TO GO OFF ONCE THE ALARM HAS BEEN SET. TRIED TO DEACTIVATE THE HORN, ALARM SYSTEM, AND LEAVE THE VEHICLE UNLOCKED, BUT IT CONTINUES TO GO OFF FOR NO REASON. *JB
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-09-28
- VIN: 9BWGK61J734
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: RECENTLY I HAD THE SAME PROBLEM REGARDING THE BRAKE LIGHTS SAYING ON AFTER I TURNED OFF MY 2003 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF AND THEY CONTINUED TO STAY ON. I FIRST EXPERIENCED THE RIGHT FRONT HEADLIGHT GOING OUT, THEN THE LEFT FRONT LIGHT WENT OUT AND I HAD TO DRIVE HOME WITH THE HIGH BEAMS ON. WE REPLACED THE HEADLIGHTS BUT THE RIGHT FRONT STILL WOULD NOT WORK. I THEN HAD THE PROBLEM OF THE BRAKE LIGHTS. I HAD TO DISCONNECT THE BATTERY FOR FEAR OF DRAINING THE BATTERY OR HAVING AN ELECTRICAL FIRE. I HAD THE CAR REPAIRED. I CONTINUE TO HAVE ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS. I DO NOT KNOW IF THE CAR HAD SIMILAR PROBLEMS BECAUSE I BOUGHT THE CAR USED. *JB
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-02-03
- VIN: WVWVD63B43E
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: I HAVE A 2003 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT WAGON WITH LEATHER, HEATED SEATS. I JUST NOTICED A HOLE IN THE SEAT THAT IS CLEARLY BURNT THROUGH FROM UNDERNEATH. I CALLED MY VW SERVICE DEPARTMENT AND WAS INFORMED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL ON THIS PART. *JB I AM UNABLE TO TELL WHAT LED TO THE FAILURE OF THIS PART ASIDE FROM USING THE SEAT HEATERS ON COLD MORNINGS. THE HOLE BURNED IN THE SEAT IS ROUGHLY THE SIZE OF A QUARTER. FORTUNATELY, I WAS NOT BURNED WHEN THIS OCCURRED. I BELIEVE THIS POSES A TREMENDOUS SAFETY RISK. VOLKSWAGEN HAS DONE NOTHING TO CORRECT THIS AS OF YET. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-11-26
- VIN: 3VWCK21Y33M
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE FROZE 1 MILE AFTER THE OIL LIGHT CAME ON. NO SMELLS, WARNING LIGHTS, NOISES BEFORE THE OIL LIGHT CAME ON. THE OIL LIGHT CAME ON FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER THEN I DROVE TO THE NEAREST GAS STATION. CHECKED THE OIL, AND IT WAS DRY. PUT IN A QUART OF OIL AND DROVE IT TO SEE IF LIGHT WOULD GO OFF - IT LOCKED A COUPLE BLOCKS AFTER THAT. WHY DIDN'T THE OIL LIGHT COME ON SOONER? THE OIL LEVEL WAS VERY LOW , ENOUGH TO MAKE THE ENGINE FREEZE. WHY DIDN'T THE OIL LIGHT COME ON SOONER? *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-09-22
- VIN: WV2MB47073H
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ON SEPT. 22ND, 2005, OUR 2003 VW EUROVAN BROKE DOWN ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. WE HAD IT TOWED TO OUR LOCAL DEALERSHIP, ROGER JOBS VW IN BELLINGHAM, WA. A FEW DAYS LATER, I WAS INFORMED BY THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT, THAT THE CAUSE OF THE BREAKDOWN WAS THAT THE OIL FILTER CAP HAD SPLIT, CAUSING ALL THE OIL TO DRAIN OUT, RUINING THE ENTIRE ENGINE WITHIN MOMENTS. FIVE VW EXPERTS EMPLOYED WITH OR ASSOCIATED WITH ROGER JOBS VW (ANGELA MATTIX THE SERVICE ADVISER, PETER DRAKE THE SERVICE MANAGER, DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVE JUAN GARCIA, AND TWO TECHNICIANS, BOB GORSUCH AND PAUL TIEGROB), UNANIMOUSLY AGREE AND ARE UNEQUIVOCALLY CERTAIN, THAT BASED ON THEIR EXPERIENCE AND WISDOM, THE OIL FILTER CAP SPLITTING WAS DUE TO AN OVER TIGHTENING OF THE CAP BY THE SELLING DEALERSHIP (PACIFIC VW), AND, WAS NOT THE RESULT OF, AS CLAIMED BY PACIFIC VW AND SUPPORTED BY VW OF AMERICA, A STONE FLYING UP UNDERNEATH THE CAR, WHICH WOULD CLASSIFY IT AS DAMAGE DUE TO ENVIRONMENTAL CAUSES, THEREBY EXCLUDING IT FROM COVERAGE UNDER THE LIMITED NEW VEHICLE WARRANTY. AS POINTED OUT BY THE FIVE VW EMPLOYEES LISTED ABOVE, THE UNDERSIDE OF THE VEHICLE IS STRONGLY PROTECTED AGAINST SUCH OCCURRENCES WITH MULTIPLE LAYERS OF HARD PLASTIC SHIELDS, ALL OF WHICH SHOW NO SIGN WHATSOEVER OF ANY KIND OF ENVIRONMENTAL DAMAGE. THEY ALSO CONFIRMED THAT THE OIL FILTER IN THE CAR WAS A FACTORY VW OIL FILTER. WE BOUGHT THE CAR (ALONG WITH A FULL WARRANTY) DIRECTLY FROM PACIFIC VW IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA IN THE SPRING OF 2004. ACCORDING TO THE EXPERT OPINION OF FIVE VW EMPLOYEES, IT''S CLEAR, THAT THE FAILURE OF THE OIL FILTER CAP WAS DUE TO FAULTY SERVICE ON THE PART OF PACIFIC VW, AND WAS NOT DAMAGE DUE TO ENVIRONMENTAL CAUSES. *NM
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-10-28
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- VIN: 9BWGK61J334
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: DT: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT 40 MPH THE DRIVER'S SIDE CURTAIN AND SEAT AIRBAG DEPLOYED WITH NO COLLISION. THIS HAPPENED WHERE A SIDE STREET MEETS A MAIN STREET. HE WENT TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM AND WAS SUFFERING FROM FREQUENT HEADACHES AND HEARING LOSS IN LEFT EAR. HE HAS TO SEE A SPECIALIST FOR THE HEARING LOSS. THE REAR PASSENGER'S HAND WAS PINCHED BETWEEN THE WINDOW AND AIRBAG. THIS CAUSED SWELLING IN HIS HAND. THE INSURANCE COMPANY STATED IT WAS A MANUFACTURING DEFECT. NO CORRECTIONS HAVE BEEN MADE AT THIS TIME. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-02-04
- VIN: 9VWBK61J534
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: CONSUMER STATED WHEN TOUCHING THE CURB WITH THE TIRES DRIVER'S SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYED INADVERTENTLY.*AK PE04081.*PO...AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-23
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 9BWGP61J734
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: DRIVERS SEAT HEATER SHORTED OUT, BURNING A HOE IN SEAT AND DRIVERS TROUSERS.*AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-02
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 9BWGP61J634
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT HEATER CAUGHT ON FIRE BURNING CONSUMER'S LEG. MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED.*AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-04-17
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 9BWGP21J834
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT 5 MPH CONSUMER SMELLED SMOKE. DRIVER'S SEAT OVERHEATED. CONSUMER PARKED THE VEHICLE AND EXITED BEFORE THE SEAT BURST INTO FLAMES. THE FIRE WAS EXTINGUISHED, AND NO INJURIES WERE SUSTAINED.*AK CONSUMER ALMOST HAD AN ACCIDENT WHILE TRYING TO STEER THE VEHICLE TO SAFETY. *TC
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-08-01
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: VARIOUS PROBLEMS WITH 2003 GLX. *MR THE CONSUMER EXPERIENCED PROBLEMS WITH THE TRANSMISSION. THE MECHANICS SUGGESTED THAT NOTHING WAS WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. THERE WAS AN INCIDENT WHERE THE ENGINE LIGHT HAD COME ON, THE VEHICLE STARTED SPUTTERING AND THE TRANSMISSION STARTING SHIRTING ERRATICALLY. AFTER THREE ATTEMPTS TO FIX THE PROBLEM, THE VEHICLE STILL DID NOT WORK PROPERLY. THE TRANSMISSION WOULD ERRATICALLY MIS-SHIFT AND OR BUCK. (MODEL/GLX) *SC
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 9BWBK61J834
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: CONSUMER NOTICED THAT PASSENGER'S REAR TIRE WAS BENT. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION, AND MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT THE REAR AXLE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *AK *LA
2003 Volkswagen Golf recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2003 Volkswagen Passat sedan, Jetta, Jetta wagon, Golf, EuroVan, EuroVan Camper Van and EuroVan Chassis vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to explode.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could explode with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began May 2, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69X3.
- Manufacturer: The Gates Corporation
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
- Summary: The Gates Corporation (Gates) is recalling certain aftermarket Tru-Flow Water Pumps, part number TFW 41127, sold at certain NAPA Auto Parts and/or installed by automotive service technicians after November 1, 2013 (and manufactured August 2013 through October 2013) that have a black-colored pulley/sprocket or do not have 'US9377' stamped on the water pump housing. These service replacement parts were sold for use in model year 1999-2005 Audi A4, 2000-2006 Audi TT, 1998-2005 Volkswagen Beetle, 1999-2006 Golf, 1999-2008 and 2011-2013 Volkswagen Jetta, and 2000-2005 Volkswagen Passat. In the affected water pumps, the pulley or sprocket that turns the timing belt may develop microfractures causing the timing belt to fail.
- Consequence: A failure of the timing belt may cause the engine to shut down, potentially increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
- Remedy: Gates will notify owners, and dealers will replace the water pump, free of charge. The recall began during May 2014. Owners may contact The Gates Corporation at 1-303-744-1911.
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Manufacturer: CARDONE INDUSTRIES, INC.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
- Summary: CERTAIN CARDONE MASTER CYLINDERS WITH PART NUMBERS 10-2925, 10-2987, 10-2987MZA, 10-3083, 11-3015, 11-3042, 11-3044, 11-3045, 11-3047, 11-3064, AND 11-3156, AND WITH DATE CODES LOWER THAN DCA7078 SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE SEAL ON MASTER CYLINDER CAN FAIL AND LEAK BRAKE FLUID.
- Consequence: LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID CAN RESULT IN POOR BRAKING PERFORMANCE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: CARDONE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE ANY DEFECTIVE MASTER CYLINDERS. THE RECALL BEGAN DURING APRIL 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT CARDONE AT 1-800-777-4780.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER, WAGON, AND CONVERTIBLE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH OR WITHOUT CRUISE CONTROL, A BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH MAY MALFUNCTION IF IT WAS INSTALLED INCORRECTLY.
- Consequence: THE BRAKE LIGHTS COULD BECOME INOPERATIVE, OR REMAIN ON. FAILURE TO PROVIDE THE PROPER SIGNAL WHEN BRAKING COULD LEAD TO A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL THE NEWLY DESIGNED BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 27, 2007, AND WILL BE CONDUCTED IN SEVERAL STAGGERED MAILINGS THROUGH SEPTEMBER 21, 2007. VEHICLES WITHIN THE MAKE, MODEL, AND MODEL YEAR OF THIS POPULATION MAY BE INVOLVED IN EITHER THIS RECALL OR 06V-183, BUT NOT BOTH. THE REMEDY IS THE SAME FOR EACH RECALL. VOLKSWAGEN DEALERS WILL APPLY THE REMEDY BASED ON THE VIN NUMBER OF THE VEHICLE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VW AT 1-800-822-8987.
Negative 2003 Volkswagen Golf car reviews
Positive 2003 Volkswagen Golf car reviews
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I've come across many reviews that suggest this car is expensive when compared to its competitors such as the Focus, MP5, Matrix, and Vibe. However, in reality, it's a great deal. Volkswagen includes so many features as standard on the Golf, whereas the competition sells stripped-down models. If you add all the features you want to the car, the Golf becomes very competitive and, in my opinion, more refined. It drives great, feels classy, and with TDI, it gets great fuel economy and lots of pep. It's unfortunate that more US car makers don't yet have the diesel option, but that should change once we get the cleaner diesel in the states.
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I have owned 28 cars and I must say, this is the best one yet! The TDI's low end torque is simply amazing, making me feel like I am driving a six cylinder instead of a four. Don't let the automatic transmission scare you, I absolutely love it. My only concern is its reliability, but if it stays reliable, this will definitely be the best car I have ever owned. So far, I have driven just 3000 miles and the seats are still great. It started up perfectly even at 18 degrees Fahrenheit!
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It's great to hear that you find the car enjoyable to drive with a manual transmission!
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I bought this vehicle to replace my 1997 S10 and I'm thrilled with it. The power is just right, the mileage is excellent, and overall it seems to be one of the best vehicles I've ever owned.
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Your car is great! I'm glad to hear that you've driven almost 8000 miles without any problems and that it has insane fuel economy. It's perfect for anyone who likes a peppy car with good fuel economy. The car is designed very well and it's fun to drive. On your trip from Montana to New York, you drove for a day and a half almost nonstop and didn't feel stiff, sore, or pained after spending almost 800 miles at a time in the car. You just stretched and felt great! The car was perfect for the trip, and for 5000 miles it only took about $80. The diesel engine is also very torquey and can climb steep grades in 5th gear and even accelerate where standard gas engines can't! I love it!
Other years of Volkswagen Golf
Are you having problems with your 2003 Volkswagen Golf?
Frank Hoppe 2024-07-29
I have experienced several issues with my Golf, despite it being a reliable car for most people. The check engine light is consistently on, and the power window cables have broken multiple times, requiring me to take it back to the dealership. I am disappointed with my experience, as I expected better from VW.