2003 Volkswagen Sharan

The 2003 Volkswagen Sharan is a spacious and versatile MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) known for its practicality and comfortable ride. Common engine options include the 1.9L TDI diesel engine (available in various power outputs, typically ranging from 90 to 115 horsepower and corresponding torque figures), and the 2.0L gasoline engine. Transmission choices usually consist of a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed or 5-speed automatic, depending on the engine. Owners often appreciate the Sharan’s ample interior space, flexible seating arrangements, and overall reliability. However, common complaints revolve around age-related wear and tear, particularly with suspension components, electrical issues, and turbocharger problems (specifically in the TDI models).

Engine

1.9L TDI Diesel

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive black smoke from the exhaust, whistling noise from the turbocharger.
  • Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor performance, check engine light.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• MAF Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Poor fuel economy, sluggish acceleration, stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Gasoline

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, low oil level, burning oil smell. Leaks often originate from the valve cover gasket or the rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant level dropping, overheating, visible leaks. Issues with plastic coolant flanges and hoses are common.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking hoses, flanges, or water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, high clutch pedal engagement point.
  • Solution: Replacement of the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Hard Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty engaging gears, grinding noises during shifts. This can be due to worn synchronizers.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic (Specific issues are less commonly reported than manual transmission problems)

• Slipping Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine revving high but vehicle speed not increasing accordingly, delayed engagement of gears.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid change, valve body repair/replacement, or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid change) - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Suspension Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, poor handling, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn bushings (control arm bushings, sway bar bushings, etc.).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per corner, depending on which bushings need replacing.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Shock Absorbers/Struts
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll.
  • Solution: Replacement of the shock absorbers or struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Central Locking System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking/unlocking with the remote or key, intermittent operation.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the wiring, replace the door lock actuators or central locking control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not going up or down, grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges not working properly, warning lights illuminating incorrectly, flickering display.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust appearing on body panels, particularly around the wheel arches, door sills, and underbody.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ per panel, depending on severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Broken interior door handles.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracks
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking and warping of the dashboard, particularly in hot climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or repair (dashboard covers are also an option).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (cover) - $1000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Volkswagen Sharan, while a practical MPV, is susceptible to a range of issues related to its age. Engine problems, especially with the 1.9L TDI turbocharger and EGR valve, are common. Suspension wear and electrical glitches also feature prominently in owner complaints. While minor repairs are relatively inexpensive, major issues like turbocharger replacement, transmission rebuilds, or extensive rust repair can be costly. Buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these common problems before purchase and factor in potential repair costs.