What's Wrong with the 4th Generation (1997–2003) GTI?

GTI owners have made 10 complaints about the 1997–2003 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 16th out of 46 VW generations in overall reliability, with some transmission and electrical concerns.

Compare With Other GTI Generations

Common 1997-2003 Volkswagen GTI Problems

Some of the worst issues 4th generation GTI owners have to deal with.

  1. VW Windows Fall into Door

    The clamps that hold the windows in place for many VW's are made of a very cheap plastic. Sometimes when moisture gets in the door and then freezes, it expands and pushes the windows off the clamps, causing the windows to literally fall int…

    Continue reading article "VW Windows Fall into Door" VW door disassembled to show window regulator

  2. What Are We Missing?

    We know there's more problems than this. Let us know which one you'd like to see us cover next.

    Continue VW door disassembled to show window regulator

What Owners Complain About

Sometimes it helps just to tally up the complaints and see where the biggest stacks are. Use this information to learn about troublespots or to run for the hills.

Worst Issues

What Breaks the Most

Years to Avoid

4th Generation (1997–2003) GTI Key Numbers

  1. 7 model years

    Grouping all models by their year can reveal some baddies.

  2. 10 complaints

    Running tally of owner grievances filed to CarComplaints.com.

  3. 16th in reliability

    Overall reliability rank out of 46 eligible generations.