2003 Volkswagen Jetta recalls and problems
The 2003 Volkswagen Jetta has 2 safety recalls and 456 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Volkswagen dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2003 Volkswagen Jetta vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2003 Volkswagen Jetta recalls
Recall 18V-406: Air Bags
Problem: 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.
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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.
Recall 07V-063: Exterior Lighting
Problem: On certain passenger, wagon, and convertible vehicles equipped with or without cruise control, a brake light switch may malfunction if it was installed incorrectly.
Risk: The brake lights could become inoperative, or remain on. Failure to provide the proper signal when braking could lead to a crash without warning.
Fix: 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.
2003 Volkswagen Jetta problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 103 | |
| Electrical System | 97 | |
| Air Bags | 82 | |
| Power Train | 55 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 45 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 28 | |
| Visibility | 22 | |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 18 | |
| Engine | 16 | |
| Structure | 12 | |
| Unknown or Other | 9 | |
| Equipment | 9 |
Most reported parts
- Seats › Front Assembly › Seat Heater/Cooler — 69
- Air Bags › Side/Window — 45
- Exterior Lighting › Brake Lights › Switch — 20
- Electrical System › Ignition — 14
- Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 13
- Air Bags › Frontal — 12
- Power Train › Clutch Assembly — 12
- Visibility › Power Window Devices and Controls — 10
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 56,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2003 Volkswagen Jetta complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Volkswagen Jetta years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2003 Volkswagen Jetta have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2003 Volkswagen Jetta: 18V-406 (air bags), 07V-063 (exterior lighting). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2003 Volkswagen Jetta?
Owners report seats problems most often (103 reports), followed by electrical system (97). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 56,000 miles.
Are Volkswagen recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Volkswagen dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.