Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms), rear suspension (torsion beam axle or multi-link depending on specific model configuration), shock absorbers, springs, wheel bearings
Steering:
Power steering system (pump, rack and pinion, fluid), steering column, alignment
Electrical:
12V battery system, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuse box and relay locations, wiring diagrams, instrument cluster, power windows, locks, mirrors, audio system
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, condenser, blower motor, climate control unit
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics)
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF (typically optimized for searchability and printing)
Print Quality
Quality:
High-resolution (for clear diagrams, illustrations, and text)
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (for digital format); Professional perfect binding or comb binding (for printed versions)
Paper Type
Paper Quality:
N/A (for digital format); High-quality, durable paper stock (for printed versions)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code Gasoline:
Various, including the 2.0L (AQY/AZG), 1.8T (AGU/AWC/AWW/BFF), and 2.8L VR6 (AAA/AFP)
Engine Code Diesel:
1.9L TDI (ALH/AHF/ASV)
Performance
2.0L Mpi (E.G., Aqy/Azg) Horsepower:
115 hp @ 5200 rpm
2.0L Mpi (E.G., Aqy/Azg) Torque:
122 lb-ft @ 3300 rpm
1.8T (E.G., Aww) Horsepower:
150 hp @ 5700 rpm
1.8T (E.G., Aww) Torque:
162 lb-ft @ 1950 rpm
2.8L Vr6 (E.G., Afp) Horsepower:
178 hp @ 6000 rpm
2.8L Vr6 (E.G., Afp) Torque:
199 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
1.9L Tdi (Alh) Horsepower:
90 hp @ 4000 rpm
1.9L Tdi (Alh) Torque:
155 lb-ft @ 1900 rpm
Fuel System
Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Turbocharged Direct Injection (TDI) for diesel variants
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 octane recommended for 1.8T and VR6), Diesel fuel for TDI
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (02J/02A for gasoline, 02G for TDI)
Optional
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (01M)
Features
Automatic Features:
Tiptronic manual shifting mode (on select models)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 171.1 inches (4346 mm)
Width:
Approx. 69.3 inches (1760 mm)
Height:
Approx. 55.6 inches (1412 mm)
Interior
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 95.0 cubic feet (2690 L)
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 15.1 cubic feet (427 L)
Weights
Curb Weight Approx Min:
2800 lbs (1270 kg) for base models
Curb Weight Approx Max:
3200 lbs (1450 kg) for VR6 models
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (2003 model year ratings)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (2003 model year ratings)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:
Good (for comparable model years)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard on most trims
Traction Control:
Optional on some models
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front airbags, optional side airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Head Units:
Factory Gamma, Delta radio systems, optional CD players, premium sound systems
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on many trims
Parking Sensors:
Rare, typically aftermarket or on very specific packages
Connectivity
Aux Input:
Not standard; requires aftermarket adapters
Bluetooth:
Not available from factory
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Approximately every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) for 1.8T and VR6 engines (critical replacement interval).
Tdi Timing Belt:
Approximately every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for 1.9L TDI engines (critical replacement interval).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil 2 0 Mpi:
SAE 5W-40 or 5W-30, API Service SJ/SL, VW 502.00/505.00 or 505.01 (for PD TDI if applicable, though unlikely for 2003 ALH)
Engine Oil 1 8T:
SAE 5W-40 or 5W-30, API Service SJ/SL, VW 502.00/505.00
Engine Oil Vr6:
SAE 5W-40 or 5W-30, API Service SJ/SL, VW 502.00/505.00
Engine Oil Tdi:
SAE 5W-40 or 10W-40, API Service CF/CG-4, VW 505.00 (or 505.01 if specified for the specific engine variant for oil change intervals)
Coolant:
G12 or G12 Plus (pink/red coolant), a 50/50 mix with distilled water
Transmission Fluid Manual:
VW G 005 000 or G 052 171 (75W-90 synthetic gear oil)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
VW G 052 162 A1 (ATF fluid, typically Dexron III compatible for this era, but consult manual for exact spec)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4
Known Issues
Common Maintenance Items:
Timing belt service, coil pack failures (1.8T), PCV system issues, mass airflow sensor (MAF) problems, door lock module failures, ABS sensor failures, front control arm bushings wear