Two problems related to engine cooling system have been reported for the 2003 Volkswagen GTI. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
(1) car overheated August 2007 (2) originally assumed thermostat was the problem, however both radiator fans were determined faulty (did not operate in low speeds) and replaced (parts covered by corporate, labor by consumer). Problem determined resolved. Next month (September 2007), check engine light comes back on, but car not overheating. Service technical says thermostat shut open and ect temp sensor needs to be replaced at owner's expense ($546). Engine cooling system could overheat in hot weather. Will determine outcome with vw corporate and/or service center.
Coolant leakage from hose on right hand side of engine compartment. This has happen a least 3 times also my check engine light has come on at least 3 times. Brought vehicle to vw service they reset the engine light and told me it was the temperature sensor which they claim they change but a month later same thing happen agian. I'm schedule agian for oct 11 2004 for coolant leaking from the same hose that I brought to them several times before. After reading a post here I've also notice that my 03 vr6 Gti feels fast some days and slow others wondering if I may have a coil problem.