TDI Jetta cosmetic differences by model year

Cosmetic differences in Volkswagen Jetta, also helps tell the difference between pumpe duse and not pumpe duse
back to 1000q: pumpe duse vs. direct injection vs. common rail

In 2002, they changed the radio from a 1 din slot system to a 2 din (double din) system. Both had an optional cd changer in the trunk. The older radio is generally regarded as sounding better. They cannot be swapped. Sometime around 2003, they also deleted the cupholder above the CD slot pictured below right and moved it to the armrest area.

Pre 2002 (none are pumpe duse)	Post 2002

These pictures can let you quickly see if your car is pumpe duse or not. This is for North American equipped cars only and assumes someone didn't swap parts. Click here for an explanation of pumpe duse vs regular direct injection. Some cars with pumpe duse have worn down their camshafts lobes. Some believe it's due partly from engine oil. Refer to 1000 answered questions for a list of approved engine oils for the pumpe duse. See 1000q: camshaft inspection on how to check for worn lobes.

	NOT pumpe duse	Pumpe Duse (2004+)
Gauge cluster		The cluster now has silver rings.
Engine cover
Taillights and trunk lid		White lens and small lip on trunk
Body side rub strip	not chrome (body colored)	chrome strip lengthwise running down the side of the car optional, some cars use a body colored strip like all earlier cars.

Have more questions about the Jetta differences? Please post in the TDI forum or search below: