2003 Volkswagen Jetta 1.8 turbo from North America
Summary:
Good car, turbo :-), Good brakes, fun to drive
Faults:
Well first off I had always liked VWs and wanted to own one. I had previously made a mistake buying an Accord with some real issues, so I needed to get out of it and into something else. I test drove the Jetta and loved it; the only problem was I didn't take it through its paces and was in too much in a hurry to buy.
After driving it longer, I noticed the transmission had some serious shifting issues. When merging on the highway it would rev up then slam into gear. I went back to the dealer and they gave me a crazy price to replace the tranny. I did my research and was convinced the solenoids were the problem. $1000 later, all new solenoids, and it drove like new.
The seems to be losing coolant, not sure where the problem is. Other than that (knock on wood), a burnt tail light bulb was the only thing I needed to fix.
General Comments:
I really love this car, for its age and mileage the paint still shines. All power works except the A/C needs charging. The power is great and I love hearing that turbo spool :-) Good torque. Since fixing the trans it's been very reliable. Ride is smooth and it handles the bumps great. Good brakes (4 wheel disc). Good stereo from the factory; the only thing I miss is MP3 hookup.
Very big trunk, can hold lots of junk LOL. The only problem I have is the need for premium and the parts need to be VW specific. For example I was told I need a new cat and the genuine VW part would cost $1000! I'll be buying aftermarket parts to say the least.
Mileage is about 22 average; not terrible, but I wish it were better, especially when buying premium. Anyway I've read mixed reviews on this car, but so far mine has been good to me and I'd recommend it.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 25th August, 2016
17th Dec 2016, 12:32
Anyone know of a good plug gap to run? I know the platinum plus I bought had a BIG gap from the factory, but read .032 and was top of the stock range. Ran that for a little and it seems my mileage has gone down and I noticed a decrease in power.
Now just yesterday I decided to go to .038 and immediately felt more power, louder turbo and just a stronger midrange/top end pull. Thinking of trying .043 and seeing what happens, but IMO the .032 gap is too small.