what issues can i expect from a 2003 volkswagen golf gl\

Worst 2003 Volkswagen Golf Problems #1: Engine Failure 2003 Golf Average Cost to Fix: $7,000 Average Mileage: 46,000 mi #2: Slips, Loud Bang When Shifting 2003 Golf

Full Answer

What kind of problems does a 2004 golf have?

Over time, carbon can develop inside the manifold’s tubes, which can stick to other parts like the fuel injectors, cylinders, and pistons. This may also result in poor fuel economy. Electrical issues are common in some units of the 1990-2000 and 2004 Golf models.

What makes a Volkswagen Golf a reliable daily driver?

Smooth handling and great fuel economy are just some of the things that make the Volkswagen Golf a dependable daily driver. But as it racks up mileage, damaged or worn-out parts may keep it from performing the way it used to.

How much does it cost to fix a Volkswagen Golf?

The Golf has average ownership costs with annual repairs amounting to an estimated $630 compared to the usual $650 for most vehicle models. The frequency of unscheduled repairs for the Golf is below average with owners needing to bring their vehicles to the shop 0.3 times a year compared to the usual 0.4.

What happens if the MAF sensor is clogged on a golf?

A clogged or damaged MAF sensor may cause the vehicle to experience several drivability issues, such as rough idling, stalling, jerking, or hesitation upon acceleration. Many 1995-2006 Golf drivers report that their engines would overheat despite replacing their vehicle’s thermostat and engine coolant sensor.

See more

What are the most common problems with a VW Golf?

Below are some of the model's most common problems reported by its users:Power Window Failure. ... Premature Brake Wear. ... Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Failure. ... Overheating Engine. ... Loss of Power. ... Electrical Problems. ... Injection Pump Failure. ... Coolant and Oil Leaks.More items...•

How long will a 2003 Volkswagen Golf last?

Volkswagen cars typically last around 100,000 miles as long as it is serviced and taken good care of.

Do VW Golf have a lot of problems?

The VW Golf has a notorious issue with its camshaft-driven high-pressure fuel pump. You should replace yours every 20k miles even if you can't hear that rattling sound, but that's what's causing it. Check our parts list for a replacement fuel pump and do the job yourself to save a lot of cash.

How many miles is a VW Golf good for?

Let's get started! Volkswagen cars typically last 100,000 to 150,000 miles or more if serviced and well maintained. Thus, VWs you buy today usually last longer than 10-year old models. However, like most vehicles, the VW Golf requires regular maintenance to achieve the high-mile mark.

Are Volkswagen Golf reliable?

Is the Volkswagen Golf Reliable? The 2021 VW Golf has a predicted reliability score of 73 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average, and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.

Are Volkswagens good high mileage cars?

It's true – VWs of all shapes and sizes are some of the longest-lasting, most reliable vehicles you'll ever find on the roads today, which is why you see them used well beyond 200,000 miles on a regular basis.

Are Volkswagen Golf expensive to maintain?

The majority of models in the range are more expensive to maintain than competitor vehicles, although it's great that the German company offers a five-year capped-price plan, which is longer than a few of its biggest competitors....Volkswagen Service PlanGolf3 years$366.66$1,100.005 years$380.00$1,900.0017 more columns

Are VW Golfs bad cars?

The VW Golf's reliability rating comes in higher than the Golf GTI ranking. Golf ranks 4.0 out of a total of 5 points – which makes it above average on the reliability scale. Golfs rank 24th out of the 36 compact cars reported.

Which VW Golf is the best?

VW Golf GTI The GTI is arguably the most iconic Golf. It's the only trim level which has stood the test of time since the MK1, and the latest trim is, we think, the best yet. Lauded for its complete feel, the eighth-edition GTI has all the features you need to really impress on the roads.

How many miles is too much for a Volkswagen?

As long as a car is more than 10 years old, 100,000 miles is a reasonable number, but more on that later. 100,000 miles should be treated as high mileage. If you own a high mileage car, make sure to change the oil with high mileage formula oil, and change it as recommended by the oil manufacturer.

What is a lot of miles for a Volkswagen?

In many cases, the VW Jetta can run for more than 200,000 miles when properly maintained. Most VW Jetta owners drive their cars for 7 and a half years, which is usually around 75,000 miles before they upgrade to a new model with the latest features.

Which VW most reliable?

Out of all VW models, the Volkswagen Golf is said to be one of the most reliable and a great all-round car for drivers who are looking for comfort, convenience and long term reliability.

Does a VW engine use oil?

VW engines use oil, but that's not necessarily a problem. It depends on how much it's using, and while you say it's using an excessive amount of oil, you don't say how much. I would do an actual check to determine the amount of oil it is using, which will give you a good guide as to whether it is excessive or not.

Is Carsguide liable for accuracy?

Disclaimer: You acknowledge and agree that all answers are provided as a general guide only and should not be relied upon as bespoke advice. Carsguide is not liable for the accuracy of any information provided in the answers.

Buyer's Beware

I bought this car brand new in 2002. At first, everything was great. Good gas mileage. Sporty little car. Great for zipping around town and did well on road trips.

Best car I owned

I bought this car at auction in 2009 with 130000 miles on.I paid 2500 dollars (for ,then,6 years old ) Never had any problems with it ,super reliable. Now it has 235000 miles and it still drives good. I used synthetic oil. The fuel pump had to be replaced last year.

Buy one, you'l love it!

This 2003 Golf TDI is without a doubt THE most fun car to drive of all the cars that I've owned. (Actually, this is car #21). The diesel engine has tons of torque and really runs great matched with the manual transmission. The gears are smooth and shift even better than the Hondas I've owned.

Love that Turbodiesel!

Okay, I'll be truthful.

Great Utilitarian Vehicle

I've had my 2003 Golf GLS for 3 years now. I bought it used with 10,200 miles on it. I've put 65,000 miles on it. I like how competent it feels no matter the conditions. It's heavy enough to feel safe on the freeway and light enough to get great mileage. I'm a paint contractor and I haul all my gear in it daily.

Always thought VW were known for their reliabilit

When I first bought my Golf it had 70k miles on it and I had every intention of driving it until 300k. Unfortunately at 148k that doesn't seem likely. For the first year i had it it went relatively alright, nothing too big. After that, it was all down hill.

Adequate basic transport

Don't delude yourself into thinking that you are getting "German engineering" on a budget because a lot of corners were cut to make a car this cheap. The engineering design thought is there, but it's betrayed by utilizing plastics instead of metals, and Brazilian assembly. This is most evident in the elegant, but squeaky interior.

Test drive before you buy a competitor

This car, even with it's not so impressive specs (115hp and not an amazing amount of torque) is quite amazing to drive. I have the 5 speed manual, and I can tell you, it's sportive if you drive it right (downshifts...). The build quality is excellent, all comes standard, it's near perfection.

Best Car I've Owned

I love this car. In the past I owned a '95 Honda Accord and a '98 Jeep Cherokee. The Golf has been a lot more reliable than either of those. It has plenty of horsepower for me. I drive 64 miles round trip to and from work and it gets great gas mileage. I'll definitely go with another VW when it comes time to get a new car.

Old car - First Time Driver

Comfortable - Not luxurious - Suits my needs. I am a first time driver so this is an excellent car for me to drive around town and haul things. It parks parks easily. When I get lost, I can quickly do a u-turn. I don't have to worry about where I park it or if it gets a ding while I am driving.

Engine Misfire

Engine misfire is a recurring issue reported by many drivers of the 2016 Golf. Affected owners report their vehicles would shudder and exhibit signs of decreased engine performance despite having less than 3,000 miles on the odometer.

Interior Accessories Problems

Some units of the 2015 Golf have had problems with their interior accessories. These include an illuminated door ajar indicator due to a faulty door latch, a malfunctioning media screen, and an outdated navigation map.

Fuel Pump Failure

Fuel pump failure has been a common problem in some 2010 Volkswagen Golfs. Owners of the affected models have noticed loss of power and poor acceleration due to a degraded high-pressure fuel pump.

Transmission Issues

Shifting problems have been common in many 1990-2006 and 2010-2011 Volkswagen Golfs. Owners who drive high-mileage Golfs report having trouble shifting gears, as their vehicles drive like they’re stuck in neutral. Some have noticed that their vehicles would rev extremely high and vibrate excessively.

Power Window Failure

Drivers of some 1996-2006, 2010, and 2012 Golf models report that their windows wouldn’t roll up or down due to a faulty window regulator. This part usually fails due to a detached cable, an overheated window motor, and extremely cold temperatures. Replacing a defective power window regulator can cost anywhere between $50 and $250 plus labor costs.

Premature Brake Wear

The rear brakes in some 1998-2001, 2003-2006, 2010, and 2012 Golfs have been reported to wear out prematurely. This can be caused by several factors, such as frequently driving at high speeds, sudden braking, hauling heavy cargo, failing to flush the brake lines, failing to use lower gears, and driving with warped rotors and calipers.

Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Failure

A clogged or damaged MAF sensor may cause the vehicle to experience several drivability issues.