2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLI review from North America
"Fun to drive, not fun to own"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Replaced Water Pump, Power Steering Pump, Catalytic Converter, Speakers, bushings, & Interior pieces (shift knob, needs ashtray cover). Engine was stalling after first purchased, dealer fixed the problem (resetting CPU?), since then it hasn't stalled, but at idle the car shudders. All four tires are out of round (cupping), but dealer will not fix this. Also, the paint or clear coat on the driver side door is peeling and again, the dealer is not willing to fix it (yet...). All within 30k miles of new.
Shifting between first & second is difficult to time w/clutch and engine.
General comments?
The car is amazing to drive, looks great, wonderfully appointed interior. However, the dealer is VERY hard to work with; you have to baby sit them to make sure they complete the warranty repairs they say they're doing. These types of problems should not happen on a car with less than 30k miles, but at-least they honored their warranty and fixed them.
Over all, a fun car to drive, and without the problems, it would be one of the best cars I've ever driven. Where most cars seem plain/boring, this one is unique, solid and exciting; I'm just not real confident in its reliability.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Model Year | 2003 |
| First year of ownership | 2005 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.8 VR6 Manual |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 4/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 2/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 12000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 39000 miles |
| Previous car | Honda Accord |
| Date of Entry | 24th August, 2006 |