expand_moreCooling fan is switched off at temperature
First stage
183.2–195.8°F183.2–195.8°F84–91°C
Second stage
195.8–208.4°F195.8–208.4°F91–98°C
expand_moreCooling fan is switched on at temperature
First stage
197.6–206.6°F197.6–206.6°F92–97°C
Second stage
210.2–221°F210.2–221°F99–105°C
Radiator cap opening pressure (Cooling system maximum pressure)
1.38–1.58 atm.1.4–1.6 bar1.4–1.6 bar
expand_moreThermostat opens at temperature
1.4 16V with gasoline straight-4 1.4 L 74 HP at 5000 RPM, 126 N⋅m at 3300 RPM engine (2003.10–2006.5)
183.2°F183.2°F84°C
expand_more1.4 FSI with gasoline straight-4 1.4 L 89 HP at 5200 RPM, 130 N⋅m at 3750 RPM engine (2003.10–2006.7)
First stage
188.6–215.6°F188.6–215.6°F87–102°C
Second stage
217.4–248°F217.4–248°F103–120°C
expand_more1.6 FSI with gasoline straight-4 1.6 L 114 HP at 5800 RPM, 155 N⋅m at 4000 RPM engine (2003.10–2008.7)
First stage
188.6–215.6°F188.6–215.6°F87–102°C
Second stage
217.4–248°F217.4–248°F103–120°C
2.0 TDI 16V with diesel straight-4 2.0 L 138 HP at 4000 RPM, 320 N⋅m at 1750 RPM engine (2003.10–2008.11)
188.6–215.6°F188.6–215.6°F87–102°C
All other modifications
185°F185°F85°C
Overheating is really dangerous for Volkswagen Golf Hatchback engines. Regularly check coolant level in the overflow reservoir. If the coolant level drops below minimum level inspect the cooling system for any signs of leakages and replace worn or damaged hoses. Use correct thermostat for your car.
Please be noted that all capacities listed here are approximate. Check fluid levels when adding or refilling as recommended in your 2003 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback user's manual. Keep in mind that all information here is provided “as is” without any warranty of any kind.
Before doing any DIY service please check your insurance policy and Volkswagen warranty policy for your region. In some regions DIY service may invalidate your warranty.
DIY car service is not as difficult as it looks like and it might save you thousands of dollars per year. It might be even fun and a good thing to do with your kids on a weekend to teach them how basic machinery works. It's really hard to screw something up and damage your car permanently if you use right tools, follow Volkswagen Golf Hatchback service manual and use right parts and fluids in prescribed amounts. Even modern cars stuffed with electronics can be serviced in your garage or even in your driveway. Changing engine oil, brake fluid, ATF, replacing brake pads, and etc. It's all may be done by yourself in a mater of a couple of hours.
Doing basic service for your 2003 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback you're not only saving money, but also also improving your technical skills and learning something new.
2003 Volkswagen Golf Hatchback generations
In 2003 Volkswagen offered 2 generations of the Golf Hatchback. Cooling system specifications may vary in different generations. Be sure that you are looking at the rigt modification.