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USA
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Review
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Roger's Auto Repair
1815 7th Avenue North
Bessemer, Alabama 35020
205.428.6035
Owner: Roger Williams
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Repair
John Rodgers (jh_rodgers@bellsouthdotnet)
writes:
Roger is a life long auto mechanic and life long VW mechanic. What he
doesn't know about them isn't worth knowing. He has performed
maintenance, rebuilt transmissions and engines for all my vans, as well
as done work on other family vehicles. Very knowledgeable. Doesn't do
work unless it is necessary. Will give you the straight scoop, whether
it's on the repair or service needed or on the time frame required or
when he can get to it. I'm real happy with his work.
Report Date: Dec 2003
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Alternative Garage
3024 3rd Ave
Birmingham Alabama 35233
205.322.4830
South Birmingham
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Repair
Mark Cumnock (mjcumnock@hotmaildotcom)
I just return from Alternative Garage
here in Birmingham AL. Please give them an Outstanding , they work on
Air-cooled ,Watercooled and esp Air-and Water cooled vans.
Report Date: Jan 2004
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Eurasian Auto
2931 4th Ave, South
Birmingham, Alabama
205.251.9263
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Repair
Anonymous writes:
Good on air-cooled VWs, doesn't like
to work on water-cooled Vanagon engines.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
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Pull-A-Part Birmingham
1900 Vanderbilt Road
Birmingham, Alabama 35234
www.pullapartdotcom |
Salvage Yard
George Jannini (georgejoann@junodotcom) writes:
Discount Do-It-Yourself Auto Salvage
Report Date: Mar 2005 |
Johnson Foreign Car
1215 Putman Drive
Huntsville, Alabama 35816
256.830.0620
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Repair VWs
Jim Felder (felder@knologydotnet) writes:
Very competent and fair VW-only shop. Jay and Nick stock everything a
VW needs for Beetles, Vanagons and everything in between. Nothing but
good experiences With them, and they've been caring for my '89 Carat
since the dealer warranty expired. They aren't afraid to help a do-it-yourselfer
with some advice, either.
Report Date: Nov 2003
Mark Cumnock (mjcumnock@hotmaildotcom)
writes:
Recommended
Report Date: Jan 2004
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Accurate Import Center
Anchorage, Alaska
907.563.8002
Owner: A.J.
(1 Complaint)
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Imports
Larry Chase (roadguy@roadhausdotcom)
writes:
Several local Vanagon folks have had
very good luck with this shop. However ... the owner "AJ" diagnosed a
massive oil leak as a "Cracked Block. Being doubtful of this I had a second
shop look at the problem. Turned out to be a simple Distributor O- Ring
failure.
Not Recommended
Report Date: Aug 2003
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Arctic
Import Repair
W Intl Airport Rd
Anchorage, Alaska
907.277.3399.512
Owner: Bruce
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VWs & Imports
Karl Bloss writes:
The best mechanic I've been associated
With. Bruce is very sharp on Vanagons and Syncros.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Larry Chase (roadguy@roadhausdotcom) writes:
Had a massive oil leak as I arrived in Anchorage. Bruce quickly diagnosed
a simple cause ... distributor O-Ring. Also discovered bad universal joints
and had a local shop press in new ones and reinstalled the drive shaft
all in the same day. Bruce and his team got me back on the road quickly
and at a very reasonable cost. Highly recommend this shop.
Report Date: Aug 2003
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Eero Volkswagen of
Anchorage
VW Dealer
Anchorage, Alaska
(1 Complaint)
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VW
Larry Chase (roadguy@roadhausdotcom)
writes:
Had them look at the massive oil leak
problem I had when I reached Anchorage. Their Diagnosis, Multiple Leaks
but they were not sure exactly where it was coming from. Wanted to drop
the engine.
Not Recommended
Report Date: Aug 2003
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Sunshine Rae's
175 E. Van Horn Rd.
Fairbanks, Alaska 99701
907.452.8913
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Tim Slager (Slagerilla@aoldotcom) writes:
They worked on my Volvo last year. Great prices and service. A Vanagon
in distress showed up while I was there. They, too, loved the service.
The guy running the place was an aeronautical engineer. Smart, friendly,
helpful. Can't say enough. I wish his shop was in my town.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
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Glen's Foreign Auto Repair
Soldotna, Alaska
907.262.3249
Glen's is on the Kenai Peninsula about 5 miles East of Soldotna, just
off the Sterling Highway. There is a sign up on the right coming out of
Soldotna going East.
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Repair
Karl Bloss writes:
Have used his service for 15 years. Never failed me yet.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
John Rodgers (jh_rodgers@bellsouthdotnet)
writes:
Glen serviced my '68 Loaf in 1980 and I used his services until I left
Alaska in 1996. Very good with Vanagons, and prepped mine for the big
journey south. Never a lick of trouble with my '85 Vanagon.
Report Date: Jan 2004
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BB's Project VW
281 VW Bug Blvd.
Clarkdale, Arizona 86324
520.634.8146
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Jim Bergstrom writes:
I have owned 7 VWs over the years (I have two '69 Buses) and have had
only one(!) mechanic for twenty years: Bruce Brimhall of BB's Project
VW. He is near Prescott, Flagstaff, Cottonwood, and Sedona, about 100
miles north of Phoenix. He has won several Firsts and Seconds in various
categories at the Bug Runs as well as for his Gearloose Ghia dragster.
If you have owned as many VWs I have, you know the rarity of a good mechanic.
Bruce is not only that, he is a great mechanic.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
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Ken's Import Service & Repair
1609 E. Butler Ave
Flagstaff, Arizona
928.774.4536
Owner: Ken Schultz
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Import Repair
Ernie DeVries (klompen@npgcabledotcom)
writes:
Ken is a stand-up guy that you can trust
to give to you straight and treat you right. I take my 1973 Porsche 914,
1975 VW Bus, 1990 Honda Accord, and 2000 Eurovan Camper to him and cannot
praise him and his team enough. They are a competent crew that still knows
about air-cooled VWs, but more important they are absolutely honest and
so you can trust them to take your car there.
Report Date: Dec 2003
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Carroll's Foreign Cars
Glendale, Arizona
623.939.4266
1 block south of Glendale, off 54th Ave.
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Foreign Auto Repair
T (midgard@DRAGON.ORG) writes:
I've been happy with their service, they've covered their own out-of-warranty
work as if under warranty. Ask for Bill or Scott & tell them that Timothy
& Sparky sent you.
Report Date: Jan 2004
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Doug's Bugs and Bunnies
1045 W Broadway Rd
Mesa, Arizona 85210
480.962.0367
Owner: Doug
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Repair ... Will Work On: Aircooled, Watercooled,
Eurovan
Tim Schneider (timschneiderATqwestDOTnet) writes:
Doug has been working on VW's a long time. He is a former mechanic at
Camelback VW in Phx for many years. He is also a 'Vanagon' driver as well,
so there. Nothing but high remarks for their service as well as work.
Highly recommended
Overall Shop Rating: Above Average
Recommend: Yes
Report Date: Jul 2005
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German Motors
1121 S Wilbur
Mesa, AZ 85210
480.969.9388
Owner: Dave
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Sean Garrett (sean.garrett@asudotedu)
writes
Dave at German motors is extremely reasonable ad does great work !!! On
time also !!! Cant say enough about the work he has done on my 1981, 1995
in the past 6 months. He just finished some more work for me on our 1995
Eurovan. Excellent job.
I highly recommend Dave !
Report Date: Jul 2005
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German Autotec
2330 W Main St
Mesa, Arizona, 85210
480.921.9700
Owner: Dave
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Repair (specializes in A/C) Aircooled,
Watercooled, Eurovan and late model VW's
Tim Schneider (timschneiderATqwestDOTnet) writes:
Dave R&R'ed the A/C on my 1990 Syncro Westy Vanagon. Having great A/C
in the 'Valley of the Sun' is truly important. Also, having someone that
knows the ins and outs of a Vanagon is also important. Complete overhaul
of the R-12 system on this van has it running ice cold again. Very thorough
as well as meticulous (it's a bear to pull the cabinetry on a westy to
get to the expansion valves etc and clean out the system) Also, no damage
to the camper's interior whatsoever.
Highly recommended for A/C work especially, he knows what he's doing!
Overall Shop Rating: Above Average
Recommend: Yes
Report Date: Jul 2005
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German Auto Repair
2221 W. Broadway Rd
Mesa, Arizona 85202
480.834.4613
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Repair
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Totally German Auto Service
8139 E. Main St
Mesa, Arizona 85207
480.357.4800
www.totallygermandotcom
Owner: Perry
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German Vehicles
Larry Chase (roadguy@roadhausdotcom)
writes:
Had this shop replace my starter and
fo a CV Boot Repack. very impressed with their workmanship, experience
and customer service attitude.
Highly recommend
Report Date: Feb 2004
Alan Ruffalo (aruffalo1393@qwestdotnet)
writes:
Perry at Totally German Auto in Mesa, Arizona did a very good job on my
air conditioning. So Far, it is working fine. I was happy with the price
and he was a good fellow to deal with. I liked him. He was very professional
and really seemed to know the Westy well. I won't get a real test on my
air conditioning until the temperatures get above the 100 to 105 degree
range here in Gilbert, Arizona. It seemed to keep my Westy cool enough
for now.
Report Date: Apr 2004
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Affordable German
15th Ave. & Broadway
Phoenix, Arizona
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Parts & Some Repair
Karl Wolz (wolzphoto@worldnet.attdotnet)
writes:
They’re a wrecking yard that does some wrenching. I haven’t used them
as mechanics, but seem honest and they’re fair on parts prices. Todd &
Bill both drive Vanagons, too!
Report Date: Jan 2004
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Camelback Volkswagen
1499 E. Camelback Road
Phoenix, Arizona 85014
602.265.6600
Type of Shop: New Cars Dealer
Will Work On: Factory Service
(4 Complaints)
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Eurovan Repair and VW parts
Larry Chase (roadguy@roadhausdotcom)
writes:
One of the best Dealer Parts Departments in the country. Have not had
any service work done.
Report Date: Jul 2003
Ernie DeVries (klompen@npgcabledotcom)
writes:
In my one dealing with them I found them
to be quick & courteous, but incompetent at representing the vehicle owner
in warranty dealings with VW. Their misdiagnosis of the cause for a problem
with my Eurovan Camper ended up costing me the warranty coverage that
VW had promised me. I didn't take a day off from work and drive 150 miles
to get something fixed just for fun. If it hadn't been for the promise
of warranty coverage I would have paid someone in Flagstaff (see Ken's
Import Service & Repair Review).
Not Recommended
Report Date: Dec 2003
M Clemann (mcc10@coxdotnet) writes:
I brought my Eurovan to Camelback when a dash warning light came on, and
for an oil change. I went in 10 hours later and found out they never diagnosed
the engine light problem, though they had changed the oil. I asked for
the van back and checked the tightness of the gas cap, only to see it
was totally missing.
I just gave them another chance today. I called and asked for the price
for changing out the transmission fluid, filter and seal. Instead of giving
me a price for the work, the service argued with me that I did not ever
need to change the fluid because the transmission was sealed.
Not Recommended
Report Date: May 2005
Constantin Solomon (Logitechone@hotmail.com)
writes
I own a 1991 Volkswagen Vanagon for which I needed AC repair last year
in September. The AC System was dying if outside temperature was high
and the condenser fan was in high speed.
Camelback Volkswagen diagnosed the problem being a wire in a short circuit
and temporarily fixed the problem by replacing a section of the AC harness.
Cost of repair: around $ 500.00
The reason why I’m saying that the repair was temporarily is because as
soon the temperature was increasing this summer I noticed that the AC
was not blowing cold air and actually it was only the cooling fan working.
I did a routine fuse check and I found all of them in good order. At the
same time behind of a panel where most of the fuses and relays are, (rear
left corner of the van), I noticed one of the relay wires were showing
signs of overheating and a point where the wire insulation was melted.
I left the panel off and I made an appointment for service with Camelback
Volkswagen to have the AC System checked. The service was scheduled
on July 07-07-04 and at that time I pointed the relay described above
to the Service Advisor and I expressed my concerns.
Camelback Volkswagen diagnosis this time came in two parts: first July
07-07-04, I was called and the service advisor stated that the AC system
is very low in refrigerant and needed about three lb of Freon. Cost: $
311.85 Second July 07-09-04, it was a telephone call stating that a pressure
switch needs to be replaced. Cost: 158.85
After paying in full I picked up my van, went home and I installed the
panel.
About two weeks later driving on a city street (Dear Valley Rd.), early
in the afternoon I felt a plastic/rubber burning smell and sure enough
after stopping on the side of the road more smoke was coming out from
the rear of the van. Luckily I had a screwdriver and a fire extinguisher
handy and in less than a minute I was fortunate to put the fire out.
With burns on my fingers from the hot screws and a good headache from
inhaling the smoke while putting fire out I called Camelback Volkswagen
to report the fire and schedule an appointment to let them decide what
to do next.
The appointment was on 07-23-04 and after about three hours of waiting
finally they brought the van back, concluding that they are in no way
responsible for the cause of the fire and further more they are stating
that when I installed the panel back after their last repair I pinched
a wire which created the short starting the fire.
When I left the vehicle for their evaluation nothing was disturbed from
the original position from the fire and the powder dispersed from extinguisher
and the photos that I took will prove it. To my disappointment the service
department had pulled the burned wires from original configuration and
the only reason was to find an excuse to cover up what was so evident
and to be able to have an alternate cause of the fire. From the
photos one can see clearly that the electric wiring are two to three inches
away from any screw holding the cover panel. I expressed my disappointment
to the service advisor and I was ready to return home. Getting back
in my vehicle ready to leave the parking lot I started the engine and
to my surprise I realized that after checking the wire the service department
of the Camelback Volkswagen left the engine cover (size: 2x 3 sq F) upside
down and half way into the engine bay.
I turned off the engine and I called the service advisor (Mr. Brandon
Weaver), outside and showed him what lousy job they do and stressing that
this is the reason why all has happened.
My self I feel unjustly accused of doing something wrong and after paying
in full for the expected repairs from Camelback Volkswagen I also expect
to benefit from such repairs and if they were not capable to do the job
right first time I do expect to be cover by the warranty of the repairs.
In conclusion I would like to see that Camelback Volkswagen is held liable
for the fire damage to my vehicle, (cost of rental van), loss of time
and installation of a new AC, system harness, burned hoses, full diagnostic
and AC repair as needed.
Total as 08-03-04: $ 8,168.00
So far nothing has happened and I lost hope but definitely I would like
to see them go out of business!!!
Biter in Arizona
Overall Shop
Rating: Avoid
Recommend: No
Report Date: Oct 2005
Anonymous writes:
I was a customer of Camelback VW for
the last eight years, in which time they have switched owners more than
several times. The experience with their repair service was awful, to
the extent that the vehicle came in a worse shape due to, what I would
only term as collateral damage. That means while they repaired one thing
the repair process either was of a very low standard or in most cases
it damaged other visible items (to which I did not have time to complain
except on a few occasions). Their handling of my Extended Warranty, and
just as mentioned in another review here, was abysmal. They almost always
failed to represent the owner and the client to the extent that I had
to cover additional rental fees due to the drawn-out approval process
(which were finally approved every single time). Overall although I love
my VW and the quality, the service provided is way less than expected
or desired, and certainly not on the level of a major auto house. One
additional comment: this! would have not happened in Germany.
Overall Shop
Rating: Below Average
Recommend: No
Report Date: Oct 2005
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Import Service Center
1648 E. Indian School Rd
Phoenix, Arizona
602.265.6412
(just west of AZ51)
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Import Repair
Karl Wolz (wolzphoto@worldnet.attdotnet)
writes:
Check with Jim & Ray at Import Service Center. They're competent and honest,
a good combination, I think.
Report Date: Jan 2004
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VW Performance
3865 N. 38th Av.
Phoenix, Arizona 85019
602.442.8997
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Repair ... VW air cooled, also Vanagons.
Larry Edson (sonofed@karmannghia.org) writes:
Specializes in performance modifications.
Quality work using only the best parts. Engine and tranny building designed
to last under all conditions.
Report Date: Dec 2003
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Toycraft Motorsports
1400 N. Rockinghorse Ln,
Pomerene, Arizona 85627
520.586.2322
toycraft@theriverdotcom
3.5 miles from I-10 exit 306
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Karl Bloss writes:
AC/WC-no72-82 vans-also Toyota, Subaru, bajas, sand buggies. Factory trained
VW technician servicing VWs since 1966
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
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Art's Pit Stop
Tucson, Arizona
East of Craycroft on Speedway
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Karl Bloss writes:
General Automotive
Go see Chip, He is the specialist on VWs. Works on my 73 bus and
friend's Ghia and VW verts
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
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European Auto Tech
3340 North 1st Avenue
Tucson, Arizona 85719
520.888.6575
audidr@mindspring.com
Owner: John Ranney
Lead Mechanic: Jeff
Service Writer: Dana
Repair
Porsche, BMW, Audi, VW, Volvo & Mercedes
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Larry Chase (roadguy@roadhausdotcom)
writes:
Recommended ... Currently my home shop.
John and Jeff are VW trained master mechanics
and should be able to handle most anything on a Vanagon. Most of their
business is on other platforms but they have been able to deal with everything
from head replacement to general troubleshooting on my Van.
Not the cheapest shop around but they
stand behind their work.
If you talk real nice to John and remind
him that I sent yah he might even agree to use some of your parts ..."once
in a while" :)
Note ... John has a Vanagon amongst his
stable of rides.
Don't expect to camp out in his back
lot, not that kind of shop :(
Report Date: Oct 2005
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Little Germany
5235 E. Speedway Blvd.
Tucson, Arizona 8571
520.881.3273
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Anonymous writes:
The Vanagon Engine Connection", specializing in water-cooled engine rebuilds.
All 1.9 & 2.1 rebuilt longblocks are $1,599.00 with a rebuildable core
exchange.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
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Competition Engineering
2560 South Industrial Park
Tempe, Arizona
480.966.8802
info@cevwdotcom
www.cevwdotcom
Owner: Dan Lawson
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VWs & Imports
Larry Chase (roadguy@roadhausdotcom) writes:
Recommended
Dan, Mike, Cory, Josh and the rest of his team spent a lot of above and
beyond effort trying to work out problems with my previous 2.2L engine.
Great AZ source for engine building and complete ground up restorations,
especially air cooled.
Very busy shop ... might need to keep
them focused on more mundane repairs.
Also Full service machine shop
Report Date: Dec 2003
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Recreational Action
512 "A" E 22nd St
Yuma, Arizona 85385
520.783.9070 / 800.747.7918
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Karl Bloss writes:
Imports, including VW
Owner is Hans Grimm. Hans was able to help me out when I had a problem
in Yuma. He couldn't fix the collapsed catalytic converter but diagnosed
it immediately and correctly -- saving me time & $$$.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
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Bob Myers Foreign
Car Repair
400(?) N. 4th St.
North Little Rock, Arkansas
371.0600
From interstate 30's Broadway St. exit ( Alltel
Arena is the landmark) Head west on Broadway through a few lights until
you arrive at the intersection where Broadway crosses the Arkansas river
turn right and go one block north and the turn on to 4th street, and you
will see the beige metal building and the Bosch sign.
Open Monday through Friday like 7:30-5:30
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Foreign Car repair
Max Wellhouse (maxjoyce@ipadotnet) writes:
Bob and Robert know all VW's and know how to deal with them. Decent selection
of watercooled and air cooled bus & beetle parts in the yard and in the
attic. Beware of the guard dogs, although aging, they can still get a little
cantankerous if riled. Normally locked up during business hours, Thieves
beware!!
Report Date: Jan 2004
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European Auto
Repair
1928 High St
Alameda, California
521.2066
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Eurovan repair
Peter Vorster (vorster@bay.org) writes:
Good repair shop in Alameda is European Auto Repair. The owners wife has
a 2002 weekender so he knows about the brake issue.
Report Date: Mar 2005
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Autometrics
1340 San Pablo Ave.
Berkeley, California 94702
510.524.3881
(1 Complaint)
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Roy (roy@junodotcom) writes:
John is a great mechanic, and they're reasonably priced.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Steven (b2bfool@yahoodotcom) writes:
I had asked them to do a 90,000 maintenance
work and recharge the coach battery. Two complaints here: They did not
know where the coach battery was and thus, was not able to charge it.
Also, the next day, I noticed a water leak from the water container for
the EVC faucet. They apparently were careless in lifting the EVC up and
did some damages. So, be very careful with them. I will not go back there!
Not Recommended
Report Date: May 2005
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Bauer's
1790 University Ave.,
Berkeley, California 94703
510.841.0475
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Owner is named Ivan Zednick.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
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Griffin Motorwerks
1485 San Pablo Ave.
Berkeley, California 94702
510.524.7447
510.524.4946 fax
(1 Complaint)
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Dave Bayer (bayer@sybasedotcom) writes:
I have found Griffin Motorwerks on San Pablo in Berkeley to be knowledgeable.
He is pretty honest (told me straight up how much he was making on the
parts) and has helped me through the first head gasket replacement. I
don't know if he goes by book time, and is an "interesting" fellow but
they have done good work.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Steven (b2bfool@yahoodotcom) writes:
They do fairly decent work on EVC's. However, for about $90.00, they will
do a decent oil change. Lastly, they wanted over $300 for leveling; whereas
you can get one elsewhere for about $60. I will not go back there. VERY
EXPENSIVE SHOP!
Not Recommended
Report Date: May 2005
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Karmakanik
1453 4th Street
Berkeley, California 94710
510 558 0111
very close to I-80; easy to find
(1 Complaint)
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Karl Bloss writes:
Small, well equipped shop run by the best auto mechanic I've ever dealt
with. He knows Vanagons inside and out, has many years of experience,
is honest and has reasonable rates.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Anonymous writes:
The owner of this shop, Steve, has decades of experience working on Vanagons
and Syncros. He knows the vehicle inside and out, is honest and fair with
his charges. However, the shop is run in a somewhat unorganized manner,
and there was once (in 2001) an apprentice working there who should not
be allowed near your Syncro. Insist that the owner Steve do all work and
you should be fine, and perhaps avoid taking your van there if the shop
is over-booked with work.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
mwsideris (mwsideris@yahoodotcom) writes:
Steve Nechodom is great and really knows Vanagons, especially
Syncros. He is really helpful and gets the job done for a
reasonable price.
Report Date: Nov 2003
Michael Colombo (miccolo@macdotcom) writes:
Karmacanix literally lost my van, literally did not know where on the
street they had left my van! Steve is a good mechanic but a really poor
business person. He cannot tell you within a week when your work will
be done! Watch out!
Report Date: Mar 2005
Michael Colombo (miccolo@macdotcom) writes:
Karmacanix literally lost my van, literally
did not know where on the street they had left my van! Steve is a good
mechanic but a really poor business person. He cannot tell you within
a week when your work will be done! Watch out!
Not Recommended
Report Date: Mar 2005
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Precision Peoples Auto Repair
1346 San Pablo Ave.
Berkeley, California 94702
510.524.1911
510.524.5121 fax
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Martin Jara (mljara@lbl.gov) writes:
My mechanic is very good. He's worked on my Miata, Subaru and Westfalia
and I've been pleased. Ken's very helpful and friendly, and knows a ton
about VWs.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
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The Bus Lab
2036 Blake St
Berkeley, California 94704
510.841.6400
Owners: Steve Perzan & Marco Greywe
(1 Complaint)
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VWs
Martin Jara(mljara@lbl.gov) writes:
Marco and Steve own and run the place. Marco is a super mechanic.
Report Date: Nov 2003
Jackie Link (jackielink@msndotcom) writes:
They really know their stuff and have kept me going when others have failed.
Report Date: Nov 2003
Andrew Collins (super123@pacbelldotnet)
writes:
Unfortunately I have to complain about this shop. I know they are knowledgeable
but they have become VERY expensive. I had a headlight switch problem
and they charged me $30 for a used replacement. They broke my spotlight
covers last time they worked on the Vanagon and now they want 10% 'corkage
fee' on parts they don't supply, not 10% of what YOU paid for a part but
10% of what they say it would cost them to supply it.
Not Recommended
Report Date: Mar 2005
Michael Colombo (miccolo@macdotcom) writes:
The Buslab is simply the best VW shop in Berkeley, CA !
Steve and Marco are dedicated and super knowledgeable. Add to that they
will tell you when it will be done and how much it will cost and that
is what it is; always! They are not a discount shop. They won’t use your
parts ever. They stock and will sell you used parts though. They really
enjoy improving your knowledge of your vehicle. They are pro’s, they get
paid accordingly and are worth every penny. I have only praise for these
guys.
I have brought my 87’ Syncro to three or four other shops in the area
over the last few years with mixed to really scary experiences.
Report Date: Mar 2005
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Sierra German Auto
2035 N. Sierra Hwy.
Bishop, California 93514
760.873.8923
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John Cunningham (jcunning@QNETdotcom)
writes:
Tim Miller is an expert, honest, mechanic steeped in the vageries of German
autos. Very dependable prompt service at fair prices.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Bob Trousdale (trooz@adelphiadotnet)
writes:
I'll second John Cunningham's comments about Sierra German Auto in Bishop,
CA. I had a problem while in the eastern Sierra and they were great. Did
a fair amount of problem solving and got me back on the road in a couple
of hours. They charged me about half of what I was expecting to pay.
Report Date: Dec 2003
Mark Young (mtyoung@gmaildotcom) writes:
The owner of Sierra German Auto really knows his buses. They rebuilt my
'78 engine and I have had many comments by other mechanics on the quality
of work.
Report Date: Mar 2005
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Bela's Foreign Car Repair
2525 N. San Fernando Blvd.
Burbank, California 91504
818.842.9464
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Suzanne Hackett (yetilvft@EARTHLINKdotnet)
writes:
Bela's a little like having John Belushi working on your car. He is good
and cheap, but hard to get an appointment with.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Nolan Hester (public@waywestdotnet) writes:
I've been going to Bela's ever since I found him on this list 3-4 years
ago. Not only have I been really pleased with his work on my 87 Westfalia
but the guy's
a genius. Not matter how seemingly obscure your van's problem, Bela's
seen it before and has the solution. His show is always busy so it's best
to not need your van back pronto when making an appointment. Still, he
usually gets it done in 2-3 days and he's a truly honest man in a less-than-honest
era.
My only regret: He _still_ doesn't take credit cards; checks only. Man,
if I had been able to put all my Westy's cumulative repairs on my frequent-flyer
credit
card, I could be in Europe!
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Little Village Automotive
1360 White Oaks Rd.
Campbell, California 95008
408-371-5322
|
Repair
Larry Edson (sonofed@karmannghia.org)
writes:
Will work on most any Volkswagen.
Good, reasonable repair. Long time VW mechanic who also has part time
help from VW mechanic certified to work on the newer stuff. Can usually
fit you in on short notice.
Report Date: Dec 2003
|
Canoga Auto Service
6933 Canoga Avenue
Canoga Park, California 91303
818.883.0345
1 blk north of Vanowen
LA (San Fernando Valley)
|
Suzanne Hackett (yetilvft@EARTHLINKdotnet)
writes:
Frank is a German car specialist and really is good (he insists on always
using original factory parts). He's also fun, honest, and courteous.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Karl Bloss writes:
AC & WC
Frank's a German car specialist and really is good, insists on always
using original factory parts
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Tassi
55 Reiner St
Colma, California
650-755-1355
parts@tassiincdotcom
www.tassiincdotcom
|
David Rodriguez (angstrom101@yahoodotcom)
writes:
This shop is owned by Bruce Tassis. They know tons about VWs and are
open on Saturdays. I have used them for years and they have always
done their best go the extra bit to get me back on the road. They also
have lots of used parts available and will usually work with you if you
are on a budget.
Report Date: Nov 2003
Robert F Champlin (robertchamplin@mindspringdotcom)
writes:
In SF I use Bruce Tassi for both the Syncro and Corrado
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Europro
2135 Canyon Drive, Unit B (in rear)
Costa Mesa, California 92627
949.642.3872
joe@europrovwdotcom
(Orange County, California)
Owner: Joe Schoeningh
|
Eurovan, Vanagon, Syncro & other VWs
Veronica Fraga (veronicafraga@yahoodotcom) writes:
Joe Schoeningh is the owner and principal mechanic. Over the course
of about six months, Joe and his assistant, Jim, gave my Syncro camper
the most amazing "Extreme Makeover" you'll ever see. First Joe gave the
van his comprehensive "New Car Inspection" (delivered in writing), from
which we developed a game plan to take care of its problems in priority
order -- safety, functionality, comfort, cosmetics. He's a Syncro expert,
and both he and Jim are Willing to take on challenges that they've never
even considered before. I gave them A LOT of challenges in the process
of turning my "Dream Van" vision into smooth-running reality. They also
work fast. I never had a problem getting my van in or out when I needed
to.
Europro's not a cheap shop (genius never is!), however, Joe is very diligent
about saving the customer money wherever he can. I trust him completely
to do excellent, honest work. I can't praise these guys enough!
They do a ton of Syncros and 2wd Vanagons. That's most of his business.
He even keeps a couple of parts vans in his yard. He's been keeping tabs
on the status of the new Tiico 150 hp engine that's in the works in South
Africa. That's supposed to be available soon, and if so, he'll be doing
those conversions.
They're not all that familiar with the camper systems, although he's Willing
to learn -- for example, I wanted a super-heavy duty inverter and totally
reliable battery system. Joe's had lots of boating experience, so he put
in an awesome marine-type system with an A/B switch. One of my next challenges
for him Will be to transfer into my van the gray water tank from the Adventurewagen
donor van we used for my new high top. They're also really great with
electrical problems. My van started out to be a terribly messed up "tweaker
car." They fixed absolutely everything.
The only thing I've found that he doesn't do is air conditioning work.
He sends that out to an AC shop.
Report Date: Nov 2003
Jon Brown writes:
I've had considerable positive experiences with EuroPro over the years.
It began when Joe arranged to have a Syncro I'd found for sale up in Berkeley
with a blown engine inspected and then delivered to his shop for me back
in 2001. His partner Jeff (who has since retired) then promptly installed
a TiiCo conversion. It was their first TiiCo conversion, but his installation
was excellent. I credit their extensive experience doing Subaru conversion
for many years having avoided many problems others have run into with
this conversion. What problems did come up, and note every conversion
no matter who does it has some issues, they always promptly remedied.
The best you can hope for with a conversion is for whomever installed
it to stand behind it and they did. In my case the alternator bracket
was breaking repeatedly, they finally redesigned it and it hasn't broken
since. In addition to the engine conversion they fixed everything from
faulty electrical wiring to the U-joints and in the end provided me the
beginning of my dream van. I can recommend this shop for Syncros, Westy's,
and engine conversions.
Report Date: Mar 2004
|
Mesa West German Auto
126 East 16th Street Unit A,
Costa Mesa, California 92627
949.645.2374
Contact: Norm
|
Sean Powell (sean@tangenttradingdotcom)
writes:
Good with air cooled engines. Good service.
Report Date: May 2005
|
R.C. Imports
6501 Fairmount Ave
El Cerrito, California
510.526.8084
gmcvw@centumdotcom
Near El Cerrito Plaza BART station
|
VW/Audi
Karl Boss writes:
Really nice mechanics, very helpful, understand your need to keep costs
down. Diagnose what dealers can't.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Siegfried's Motors
6173 N Blackstone
Fresno, California 93710
209.439.3393
(Central Cal)
|
Repair
Don Trowbridge (dontro@stidotnet) writes:
After I moved to the central calif mountains I sold my '73 bus and purchased
an '89 Westy Syncro. There are no shops in my small mountain community
(Oakhurst, Ca) that could do a Smog certificate and minor repairs. I was
referred to Siegfried's Motors in Fresno. The original owner, Siegfried,
now retired but in the shop occasionally, and his son Mike did a great
job getting my new Westy to pass smog and running good. They were
very conscientious in repairing and maintaining the van. I can recommend
them to do a good job on any VW.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Sonoma Volkswagen Repair
15195 Arnold Dr.
Glen Ellen, California 95442
707.996.1354
(Northern Cal)
|
VW Repair
Don Trowbridge
(dontro@stidotnet)
writes:
I would like to add my former repair shop to your list. I had a '73 bus
for 22 years. (Sold it last year to get a Westy Syncro since I moved to
the mountains). For the last 10 - 12 years Gary Freeman of Sonoma Volkswagen
Repair, had kept my bus running. His work is good and his prices are reasonable.
He also has a large supply of used good used parts to keep the repair
cost down.
Highly recommended.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Bugge Builders
825 Pacific Coast Highway
Hermosa Beach, California 90254
310.798.8701
buggebuildersdotcom
g-importsdotcom
Owner: Graham Cruickshank
|
Repair ... VW, Audi, BMW & Mercedes
Monique LeMay (mlemay@rpadotcom) writes:
I've had my 1990 VW Westfalia camper van worked on by their shop for over
4 years and they do excellent work. They are very good at explaining what
needs to be done and testing the parts to see if they work before making
you
spend tons of money. They have been working on VWs for many years so
they can often diagnose the problem very quickly.
Report Date: Feb 2004
Kirk Maillet (batman@lumaldotcom) writes:
Recommended
Report Date: Jun 2005
|
Maxed Performance
7281 Autopark Drive
Huntington Beach, California 92648
714.848.1730
Corner of Bushard and Ellis
|
Ben Alesna (benalesna@homedotcom) writes:
Super service and integrity run by Max and his son-in-law. He did my new
engine for my 83½ Westfalia at 90,000 and it's running like a charm at
208,000. He has had a couple of custom bugs featured on the cover of VW
Magazine.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Karl Bloss writes:
German Cars, but they really know Vanagons.
After working on my own car for 25 years (I was a mechanic for 10 years),
this is the only place I Will go. Honest, standard prices, back up all
their work.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
|
Schmidty's Garage
Huntington Beach, California 92648
|
Repair ... works on everything
|
Interstate Auto Dismantlers
Salvage Yard
18181 Collier Avenue
Lake Elsinore, California 92530
909.471.5080 (Yard)
|
Salvage Yard & Satellite Store
The business writes:
Interstate Used Parts & Core Co. (formerly Interstate VW) has specialized
in original VW parts for all VWs since 1987. We carry all
parts for Vanagons from 1980 to 1991. You can check availability
of any part used, rebuilt or new (if available). We ship worldwide.
Report Date: Dec 2003
|
International Auto
Service
(a.k.a. Vanagon Projekt)
2551 Second Street
Livermore, California 94550
Phone: 925.447.8224
Fax: 925.447.5944
DEHanschke@SBCglobaldotnet
www.VanagonProjectdotcom
Owner: Detlev Hanschke
|
Peter Buettner (pgb@dolbydotcom) writes:
Detlev is a VW-trained mechanic from Germany. He knows VWs, including
Busses, Vanagons, and Syncros inside out and is doing outstanding work.
He's the only guy I turn to when I can't do a repair myself or don't have
time to do it. Event if this means driving 50 miles from San Francisco
to Livermore, it's the only way to go! Besides being a great mechanic
Detlev also imports the Winkler line of VW parts and accessories (www.vw-winkler.de)
from Germany and does Audi 5-cylinder Vanagon conversions.
Report Date: Dec 2003
|
PEP/GoWesty
1119-A Los Olivos Ave,
Los Osos, California 93402-3232
888.469.3789
sales@pepartsdotcom
www.gowestydotcom
Owner Lucas Valdez
|
Larry Chase (roadguy@roadhausdotcom)
writes:
Highest Recommendation.
Bus, Vanagon & Eurovan Specialists
Did lots of Pre-Work on Roadhaus . Excellent quality, very knowledgeable
on all VW Van platforms and great follow up. When there was a problem
they stepped up and resolved it quickly and fairly.
Report Date: Mar 2003
|
Euro Quattro
2455 Old Middlefield Way
Mountain View, CA
650.964.6066
Berkeley, California 94703
|
Steven (b2bfool@yahoodotcom) writes:
The best and very competent professional mechanic, Tony. He not only owns
the shop; but, also his beloved Eurovan. His rate is very reasonable.
Leveling is about $60.00. Best of all, he really knows how to troubleshoot
one step at a time ~ especially on my 95 EVC's complex inline 5 engine.
I have found my mechanic whom I can trust. Yay!
Report Date: May 2005
|
|
Steve's Independent
Repair
Pasadena, California
626.795.7682
|
General Auto, Vanagon & Syncro
Larry Chase (roadguy@roadhausdotcom)
writes:
A second hand ... High Recommendation.
The original owner of the RoadHaus had
my 90 Syncro Westy beautifully maintained by this shop for many years.
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
BP Automotive Service
1809 Santa Rita Rd
Pleasanton, California 94566
925.846.2025
1.0 mi N- Directions
|
|
Auto Tech
185 Lake Blvd
Redding California 96003
530.229.0430
|
Repair
Gary (fatmedia@yahoodotcom) writes:
Really helped me out when my starter gave out Monday on a trip from the
Bay area to Seattle. Auto Tech dug through their parts pile and found
me a working used Starter so that I could install it in my van later that
night.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
|
Eurro Quattro
Redwood City, California 94063
Owner: Tony
|
Repair
ffsharp007 (bsharp007@msndotcom) writes:
Excellent independent shop, clean and
well organized shop. Tony the owner and main mechanic is knowledgeable
and honest. Have had great experiences at this shop with my EVC.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Fred's Garage
416 "D" Street
Redwood City, California 94063
650.368.5343
|
VW repair
Ron Lussier (coyote@vanagondotcom) writes:
Probably one of the best Volkswagen repair shops in the San Francisco
bay area. They are all German trained mechanics and work on nothing but
VWs and Audis. They treat you like a human being and are scrupulously
honest.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Anonymous writes:
Fred's is a great shop for keeping VWs
alive. The lot is crammed with various dead and near death VWs - buses,
beetles, newer VW, etc. They know VWs inside and out and only work on
VWs. Also tend to only do what needs to be done so are great for keeping
your ride on the road with minimal cost.
Will set crank endplay, loosen a stuck bolt for you, and do many customer
service favors. Have loaner cars if you don't mind driving true beater
cars.
I've been taking VWs (64 bug, 84 Westy, 86 Westy Weekender) to Fred's
for over 30 years and have always had excellent experiences.
Overall Shop Rating: Excellent
Recommend: Yes
Report Date: Jan 2006
|
Greg's
VW Service
2796 Middlefield Road
Redwood City, California 94063-3404
650-364-1406
gregsvw@attdotnet
www.gregsvwdotcom
|
VWs
Karl Bloss writes:
Dependable, affordable, Major Sponsor of All VW Events in Northern California.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
South Bay Body Shop
417 "D" Street 94063
Redwood City, California 94063
650.368.0513
|
Ron Lussier (coyote@vanagondotcom) writes:
Right next door to Fred's, this shop does first-class work.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
E&C Parts and Accessories
7437 Reseda Boulevard
Reseda, California 91335
818.342,1606
Between Sherman Way and Saticoy
Owner: Eddie Carr
|
Repair & Parts
Tanja Bomb (dabomb@TANJABARNESdotcom)
writes:
My mechanic is located in Reseda, which
is still within the San Fernando Valley. I had a heck of a time finding
him though, and spent a lot of time and money before I finally did. Some
of you may know about the trials and tribulations I've had before I met
this guy.
Eddie is honest and does absolutely fabulous
work. As a Vanagon driver that is my daily driver, I no longer live with
doubt or anxiety when I take the car out in the city or on long road trips.
I can't tell you enough how wonderful he is!
Report Date: Jan 2004
Mark Young (mtyoung@gmaildotcom) writes:
Eddie Carr is my mechanic now at E&C Automotive Parts and Accessories.
He is honest and also extremely knowledgeable. He has kept me on the road
for 5 years now. Everyone thinks I trust my bus too much but it hasn't
let me down.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Foreign
Parts Specialties
6501 Elvas Ave
Sacramento, California
916.453.8722
|
Foreign Parts Store
Blake Heinlein (blakeheinlein@yahoodotcom) writes:
This is a great source for all your foreign parts needs. I get all my
parts for my Vanagon there. They supply foreign parts for many mechanics
in the area. They allow walk-ins and they Will meet internet pricing if
you have proof.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Larry'z
Auto Works
500 X St
Sacramento, California
916.447.2604
|
WBX and AC
Blake Heinlein (blakeheinlein@yahoodotcom) writes:
I had my compression tested by them on my Vanagon. Very honest and reasonable
prices. There always seems to be one or two Vanagons there.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Stephan's Auto Haus
3950 Attawa Ave.
Sacramento, California 95822
916.456.3040
916.456.3041 fax
Beetsport@comcastdotnet
www.Stephansautohausdotcom
Close to Sac City College
Across from Hughes Stadium
Owner: Stephan White
|
All VW and German
Larry Chase (roadguy@roadhausdotcom) writes:
Fellow List member and Syncro enthusiast ... Stephan White's shop.
You won't find a shop with more integrity and honesty. Give Stephan a
shot, you won't regret it. In the SAC area this is the shop to go to.
h
Report Date: Feb 2004
|
Euroteile
1500 S River Road, #B
West Sacramento, California 95691
916.997.4050
sales@vanagonpartsdotcom
www.vanagonpartsdotcom
Owner: Jeffrey Schwaia
|
Parts & Repair ... All Vanagons (air
& water cooled)
Owner Jeffrey Schwaia (sales@vanagonpartsdotcom) writes:
We are a new and used parts store, and will gladly help with any emergency
repairs for road-weary travelers.
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
Freeway Lincoln Mercury Volkswagen
1600 Camino Real
San Bernardino, California
909.889.3514
|
VW Dealer
Anonymous writes:
Horrible service department...do not take your EV here. Asked them what
it would cost to install the VW 6CD and was told "we don't know how to
do that you'll have to take it to a stereo shop". I also took my 03 here
for the 5k mile oil change. They somehow managed to pin the dipstick underneath
the plastic engine cover. When I took the cover off to retrieve the now
bent dipstick the oil level was a full inch above the max line. The dealers
response was "it's OK to have that much extra oil in the engine, it's
only a problem if there are quarts of extra oil". I also asked them to
fix a ripple/air bubble under the black material between the windows.
They didn't fix it. They said that the window would have to be removed
to fix it. Apparently, it would be too much trouble. I fixed it myself
using a credit card to work the ripple out. This is the worst shop I've
ever been to. I now drive an extra 20 minutes to have my EV service at
next closest dealer.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
|
Harloff
Automotive
San Diego, California 92116
|
VW
Gregory Childs (gachilds@sdcoedotk12dotcadotus)
writes:
Brad has worked on
my VWs for over 20 years.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Mike's
Foreign Auto Service
3441 Adams Ave
San Diego, California 92116
619.280.8883
|
VW
Karl Bloss writes:
Complete service for all VWs. 30 years of experience
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Randy's
Foreign Car Clinic
San Diego, California 92110
619.299.2994
randysforeigncar@abacdotcom
Owner: Randy Hutto
|
VW air & water cooled Vans/Vanagons
Karl Bloss writes:
Factory VW Dealer trained 1966 and have now been in the same location
for the last 20 years. We are members of BBB, ASC and ASE certified.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Bug & Hare Repair
1645 Pacific Ave
San Francisco, California
94109
415.771.3377
bugnhare@email.msndotcom
between Van Ness & Polk Streets
|
VW & Audi
Karl Bloss writes:
Complete automotive repair. Repairing VWs and Audi's since 1976
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Glenn's Garage
5833 Winfield Blvd.
San Jose, California 95123
408.225.6385
|
VW and Import
Sam Musleh (musleh@pacbelldotnet) writes:
Glenn, of Glenn's Garage, has no employees so he cannot handle too many
vehicles at once. He doesn't advertise either so he Will not usually have
many vehicles ahead of you when you come in. As a matter of fact, he had
the garage's one car bay open and he was waiting for me when I came in.
It's nice to see a shop that respects a prearranged appointment!
Anyway, to make a long story short, Glenn repaired the various things
wrong with my van and found that several problems the VW dealer diagnosed
were items that either were not what was wrong or they simply didn't need
fixing yet. His estimate was $900, two thirds of what VW wanted for the
same repairs. Minus the unnecessary repairs that didn't get done, his
final price came in at less than $650. My van has run very well since
then and I Will always bring it back to Glenn's Garage for further repairs.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Larry Chase (roadguy@roadhausdotcom)
writes:
Honest, very experienced and did
excellent repair work on Roadhaus I. Plus as a bonus .. Glenn's a bit
of a character ... very enjoyable.
Note ... does not take appointments.
First come, first served!
Report Date: Jul 2003
|
Volks Authority
1098 Stockton Av.
San Jose, California 95110
408-286-5742
www.volksauthoritydotcom
vw_auth@hotmaildotcom
|
Repair ... VW's, Aircooled
Specializes in older VWs.
Larry Edson (sonofed@karmannghia.org)
writes:
If you want work done on a '40s, '50s, or '60s VW this is the place to
go. Has good European contacts for sourcing those difficult parts. Very
knowledgeable and smart.
Report Date: Dec 2003
|
W.E. Harding Co. Auto Service and
Repair
502 S. 2nd Street
San Jose, CA 95112
408.286.8989
HardingAuto@mechanicnetdotcom
(1 Complaint)
|
Repair
Marc Sayer (marcsayer@comcastdotnet)
writes:
Previous owner had this shop check out the van prior to turning it over
to us because it had been sitting for several years. He had estimated
$200-$500 to get it road ready but the owner confronted with a $2300 bill
at the end.
A set of new tires, I sent, was stolen
when someone broken into the van. They damaged the wing window frame,
he replaced the glass but did nothing about the bent frame. We were told
the old tires were OK, but they had a Load Index of around 84 and had
been sitting deflated on the van for several years.
Other problems that were not identified or addressed:
Brake fluid is very dark brown BTW
Gas tank had grommet leaks etc.,
He checked the charging system, however the alternator had to be replaced
about 4-5 hours into the trip home
Headlight hanging with the lower adjuster missing
And so much more.
Stay as far
away from this shop as possible.
Not Recommended
Report Date: 2005
|
Interstate Used Parts
& Core Co.
135 N. Pacific Street, Suite C
Satellite Store
San Marcos, California 92069
760.736.8515
760.736.8518 (fax)
info@interstateusedpartsdotcom
www.interstateusedpartsdotcom
|
Salvage Yard & Satellite Store
The business writes:
Interstate Used Parts & Core Co. (formerly Interstate VW) has specialized
in original VW parts for all VWs since 1987. We carry all
parts for Vanagons from 1980 to 1991. You can check
availability of any part used, rebuilt or new (if available). We
ship worldwide.
Report Date: Dec 2003
|
The Beetle Clinic
911 South Claremont Street
San Mateo, California 94402-1833
650.696.3860
|
Volkswagen Specialists Air & Water Cooled
|
A1 Imports
1585 East Francisco Blvd
San Rafael, California
415.256.1949
Owner: JP Cadeaux
|
Repair ... All Vans and can do custom
work
Michael Folkers (mfolkers@adobedotcom) writes:
I can’t recommend JP Cadeaux @ A1 Imports in San Rafael, CA highly enough.
He’s been working on all my cars for over ten years and he’s the first
mechanic I’ve ever trusted. He does good work and stands behind it.
I got my first Westy (a 91 MV) and took it to the local VW specialist.
After spending a lot of money and getting less than stellar results, I
started to take it to JP and I’ve never regretted it. He fixed problems
that the specialist couldn’t and has made the experience of owning a Westy
that much more enjoyable. He now has a veritable stable of regular Westys
coming through his shop, including my new one (91 GL Camper with 42K original
miles). I would never hesitate to send anyone to JP @ A1 Imports.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Valley
Wagonworks
193 Mill St
San Rafael, California 94901
415.457.5628
info@valleywagonworksdotcom
www.valleywagonworksdotcom
Owner: Paul
|
David Rodriguez (angstrom101@yahoodotcom)
writes:
This shop is owned by Coby and it a nice clean new shop with excellent
service. Very professional, they specialize in VW busses and
Vanagons. Very nice people
Report Date: Nov 2003
Jess Rollins (jess@petexpertisedotcom)
writes:
Paul will make you feel completely comfortable as he takes his time explaining
what is going on with your car. His love for VW buses is apparent (there
were 8 there when I visited!). The nicest mechanic I have ever worked
with!
Report Date: Jun 2005
|
Sonnen Motors
740 Francisco Blvd
West San Rafael, California 94901
800.766.6361
415.456.9040
415.460.4100
415.456.2206 fax
info@sonnendotcom
www.sonnendotcom
Just off of 101...visible from
freeway. Call dealer for exact
directions.
20 min. north of San Francisco on 101.
|
Karl Bloss writes:
Porsche/VW Dealer
They are a dealership (Porsche & VW), so they are expensive. However,
in a
pinch or a job is beyond your abilities (or is covered by warranty), they
are a
good option. They know Vanagons well, are meticulous, do not gouge.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Steven X. Schwenk (sxs@Schwenk-Lawdotcom)
writes:
Sonnen VW over in Marin is good... expensive and a pain to drive over
the bridge...but they have always done excellent work and know Vanagons...
Their facility is brand new, immaculate and well equipped.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Fast German Auto
2911 S. Oak St.
Santa Ana, California 92707
714.979.2971
888.211.3334
714.979.2974 fax
www.fastgermanautodotcom
(1 Complaint)
|
VWs
Vee (alandasi-rpr@yahoodotcom)
writes:
I found them to be ridiculously
slow, poor at diagnostics, disorganized and waaaay too expensive for the
quality of work they did.
Report Date: 1998
Not Recommended
|
RIMCO
(Riddle Machine Co.)
520 E. Dyer Rd.
Santa Ana, California 92707
714.549.0357
800.331.4775
|
Anonymous writes:
Mail order VW machine shop, highly recommended by Bob Hoover. Casework,
heads, linebores, casesavers, balancing, etc. They still do a tremendous
amount of VW work, so they have the setups and know what they are doing.
When your machinist comments, "Gee, haven't had to do a VW engine in a
coupla years...", think RIMCO.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Cory Motors
429 E. Montecito Street
Santa Barbara, California 93101
805.965.4581
|
Brent Christensen
(sbsyncro@hotmaildotcom) writes:
Mike Cory is the owner and principal mechanic. He is definitely one of
the most honest, knowledgeable, and trustworthy mechanics I have ever
been to. He works on a LOT of Vanagons and is even very familiar with
Syncros. His prices are very reasonable, and he is very easy to talk to
- he Will even explain procedures to you as he works on the car, and doesn't
mind being watched while he works. I would give Cory Motors the highest
rating possible for honesty, reliability, knowledge, and quality of work.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Der Volks Werks
626 E. Gutierrez st.
Santa Barbara
California 93103
805.965.2841
(1 Complaint)
|
Volkswagen repair ... all volkswagen
only
Levi hawkins (l_levi1atyahoodotcom) writes:
After he replaced the ignition switch in Westy the turn signals didn't
work. Told him they worked when I brought it in, and after looking at
it he said it wasn't possible for him to get them working without "considerable
expense". I was traveling and didn't have my tools so, I had to go buy
40$ worth of tools (ratchet, socket, allen wrench) to re-adjust things
to their previous and correct position, so that the turn signals would
work.
Then took it back to him and demonstrated that the turn signals were working
and that I had to buy these tools to fix his work. He refused to talk
to me about this. Noticed while he was originally working on my
van that his hands were shaking badly, and after replacing the steering
wheel he couldn't get the nut on that holds down the steering wheel. He
then cross threaded it and had to take it apart and file down the threads
to get this nut on.
I do NOT recommend this shop .... this
was the owner!
Overall Shop
Rating: Below Average
Recommend: No
Report Date: Prior to Oct 2005
|
H & R Motors
511 E. Richardson Street
Santa Barbara, California 93101
805.965.6757
jammyauto@hotmaildotcom
Owner: Seth Hatfield
|
Vanagon, Syncro and Import Specialist
Chris Radcliffe (chrisr_vanagon@mindspringdotcom) writes:
I had a great experience with H&R Motors today (Seth Hatfield). One CV
replaced, both sides fully cleaned and re-packed. Great folks to deal
with, knowledgeable, fair pricing. Seth's setup seems similar to Fred's
in Redwood City: well established, faithful following, funky setting.
Just like all our favorite places, I'm sure. Visit Seth at H&R if you
ever need help, or are considering a Subaru conversion. He's stoked on
those and has done a number of them.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Larry Chase (roadguy@roadhausdotcom)
writes:
Highest Recommendation
Subie Conversion, Syncro Specialist and enthusiast. Did the spare tire
carrier and Battery Box Modification work on Roadhaus. Excellent quality
work.
Seth is a fellow Syncro List Member and
a great guy.
Report Date: Mar 2003
|
MB German
2897 El Camino Real
Santa Clara, California
408.985.7696
|
Thomas Doherty (tdoherty@earthlinkdotnet)
writes:
I am extremely
fortunate to know Mike, he is an excellent mechanic for my Vanagon.
He fixes things that need to be fixed and doesn't do things that I don't
need.
If anyone in SF Bay Area ever needs a great mechanic for their Vanagon,
BMW or Mercedes, Mike from MB German is about the best. I know, as I have
tried all the others, including the high-priced, brutally incompetent
dealers.
Report Date: Dec 2003
|
New Dimensions
2240 De La Cruz Blvd.
Santa Clara, California
408.980.1691
|
Lance Maurer (lmaurer@mediacitydotcom)
writes:
Recommended
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Santa Cruz VW Dealer
Santa Cruz, California 95062
(1 Complaint)
|
ffsharp007 (bsharp007@msndotcom) writes:
Terrible shop, made it difficult to get
any warranty work done, claimed they don't work on EVC and told VW I have
a Rialto. VW didn't seem to know the difference between a Rialto and a
Eurovan camper.
Not Recommended
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Van-Cafe
1823 Soquel Ave
Santa Cruz, California 95062
831.426.1244
customercare@van-cafe.com
www.van-cafe.com
Owner: Peter Jones
|
VW repair and Parts Shop .. Water-cooled
Only.
Larry Chase (roadguy@roadhausdotcom) writes:
Highest Recommendation
Peter has been a great help in launching and keeping the RoadHaus on her
trip. Has always gone the "Extra Mile" and at a very reasonable cost.
I've reached out to Volks Cafe Team many times when in trouble and they
have always come thru. These folks care about customer service.
Report Date: Sep 2003
Robert F Champlin (robertchamplin@mindspringdotcom)
writes:
Sometimes I take the day off and drive down to Peter at VolksCafe
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Interstate Used Parts
& Core Co.
135 N. Pacific Street, Suite C
Satellite Store
San Marcos, California 92069
760.736.8515
760.736.8518 (fax)
info@interstateusedpartsdotcom
www.interstateusedpartsdotcom
|
Salvage Yard & Satellite Store
The business writes:
Interstate Used Parts & Core Co. (formerly Interstate VW) has specialized
in original VW parts for all VWs since 1987. We carry all
parts for Vanagons from 1980 to 1991. You can check
availability of any part used, rebuilt or new (if available). We
ship worldwide.
Report Date: Dec 2003
|
German Car Service
2202 Olympic Blvd.
Santa Monica, California 90404
310.829.2563
Owner: Bruno Heidenwag
(1 Complaint)
|
Ben Alesna (benalesna@homedotcom) writes:
Bruno Heidenwag is the owner/mechanic, who still has the heavy Deutch
accent after being here 40 years. The the highest level of integrity and
great work. Super clean shop, that was once written up as one of the best
foreign car repair shops in LA Magazine. Still drives an '82 Westfalia,
even though he is well beyond the point of having to.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Ross (rbound@yahoodotcom) writes:
The Best shop in Los Angeles area.
High quality work at very fair prices, very friendly and super professional.
The shop is clean and well organized. All mechanics are experienced.
Report Date: Mar 2005
Anonymous writes:
I read the good reviews, so I called
Bruno to get some work done on my vanagon. I was treated rudely and condescendingly
and ended up hanging up in disgust. I stopped by later in person, just
in case I had caught the wrong person on the wrong day. I was again rudely
and dismissively treated. I will not be bringing my van, or any of my
dollars, to these jerks.
Overall Shop
Rating: Avoid
Recommend: No
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
|
Long Enterprises
Sebastopol, California
www.longenterprisesdotcom
(1 Complaint)
|
Transaxle Rebuilder
Daryl Christensen (aatransaxle@DIRECWAYdotcom) writes:
For what its worth...Rick Long has been doing tranny's a long time and
is very knowledgeable. I use his remachined sliders in my rebuilds as
an extra precaution against popping out of gear. He is one of the 4 or
5 in the country (including myself of course) that I know does high quality
work and is a nice guy to boot.
Daryl of AA Transaxle
Report Date: Jan 2004
Randy Bergum (organslave@EARTHLINKdotnet)
writes:
I have a Long trannie - been running for about 135,000 miles and no sign
of fatigue yet.
Report Date: Jan 2004
Tolga Morawski (tolga@MACdotcom) writes:
I also have a Long Tranny in my '84 1.9
watercooled. I heard about Rick (Long) from Bob Donald's of Boston Engine,
who I got my engine from. I also had a good pre-sales experience with
Rick. After less than a year and 5,000 easy miles on the tranny I started
having a lot of problems getting into 3rd. Called Rick and he explained
that it sounded like a bad or unevenly worn synchro for 3rd gear but he
didn't offer to do anything for me and was relatively un-helpful. He told
me to double-clutch it or hope that it wore off on it's own, stopping
the noise. 2 years later if I don't double-clutch going into 3rd grinds
every time. I'd never buy from the guy again.
Not Recommended
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
T-N-T Automotive
3303 East 19th Street
Signal Hill, California 90804
562.439.6720
|
Erik Rhodes (ErikRhodes@platsoftdotcom)
writes:
Tom is the owner and sole mechanic. I've tended to do most of my own work
when I could over the years and have only taken things to him that I didn't
know how to fix or that were a bigger job than I wanted to hassle with.
He's knows his stuff and has never told me something was wrong that wasn't
-- I've tested this because usually I knew what was wrong and didn't want
to do it myself out of the size of the job. That and every time I always
could honestly say that I wouldn't have charged less than he did. He's
a good guy.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Old Volks Home
3921 Soquel Dr.
Soquel, CA 95073-2040
831.475.3394
Soquel is a suburb of Santa Cruz, 3 miles from SC downtown.
Old Volks Home is on Soquel Drive at 41st Ave.
|
Repair
Alan (anadem@gmaildotcom) writes:
Please add to your list the Old Volks Home, possibly the only Santa Cruz
area repair shop for aircooled VWs, who did an excellent job bringing
back our westie from the dead (bought by us after sitting six years under
a
tree). Nice people, nice work at low cost.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
German Motors
2750 Lake Forest Road
Tahoe City, California 96145
530.583.6220
Located in the Lake Forest
subdivision a few miles east
of Tahoe City, very close
to the municipal campground
and beach at Lake Forest as
well as a county park.
|
Ari Ollikainen (AriO@pacbelldotnet) writes:
A VW "authorized service" shop and experts on Vanagons (especially of
the Syncro variety) as well as Audis. Their labor rate is more reasonable
than in the Bay Area.
George Ritchey seems to really care about his customers' vehicles... We
spent a bunch of $$ putting my Wife's '91 Carat right while vacationing
at Tahoe, last year... a good thing we had two vehicles!
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Robert Larsen (rslarsen@hotmaildotcom)
writes:
I contacted German Motors regarding some work on my Syncro and was told
that they are "trying to get out of working on vans." They expressed little
interest in helping me out with my head gaskets, so I took my business
elsewhere. I have heard nothing but good things about their work, but
it might be worth checking in with them to see if they still work on vans
or not.
Report Date: Dec 2003
|
South Bay Folkscraft
22857 Arlington Ave
Torrance, California
310.325.2466
Owner: Mike Conrad
|
VW & Vanagon
George (Gamercer@aoldotcom) writes:
For years it was owned by an old German, Adolph and his son. They were
very good and very honest.
Now it is run by equally honest, fair priced and good 30 years experienced
VW mechanics. They will explain what they are going to do and let you
watch.
Mike Conrad is the owner and Bernard is his chief mechanic. Both of them
know their stuff. Bernard has about 30 years experience with VWs and Mike
has about 25 years. They work on Vanagons. They will even take responsibility
if they make a mistake.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Wabbit Wepair
Venice, California
310.822.8419
|
Repair
VWs
Robert Stewart (robertmstewart@macdotcom) writes:
Ask for Kent. I was told the shop is very honest and is owned by the brother
of a list member. Garage has 27 years of experience working in Santa Monica
on VW’s.
Report Date: Nov 2003
Scott Braley (scottb@igc.org) writes:
Kent didn't do any work on my 88 Westy- it was Friday, he was closing
in a hour, and I was 200 miles away. But he spent 15 minutes on the phone
helping me figure out how to limp home with an overheating engine. Seems
like the radiator fan wasn't coming on properly, so he suggested running
the heater (which I was doing), and turning ON the AC. Talk about non-intuitive,
but the fan came on with the AC, and kept the engine cool enough to get
over the mountains and back to Oakland.
Anyone who will take the time to do a long-distance diagnostic with no
hope of any paying work is waaaay high in my book.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Southern California Auto Center, Inc.
20968 Ventura Blvd
Woodland Hills, California 91364
818.347.0321
|
Repair .. Primarily water-cooled, but
will work on air-cooled in good shape.
Steven Portnoy (sportnoy@socal.rrdotcom) writes:
These guys know their stuff. They have done several repairs on my 1978
Westy including correctly diagnosing some tricky problems. Their prices
are reasonable and I trust their judgment.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Wright's German
Motors
5609 Lamar
Arvada, Colorado 80002
303.420.2123
Owner: Joseph Wright is from Heidelberg
|
Repair
John (jclark@speakeasydotnet) writes:
I've had him work on my buses and he's
great. Probably not the least expensive but it's done right.
Report Date: Feb 2004
|
|
Frey's Foreign Cars
2550 49th Street
Boulder, Colorado 80303
303.440.0725.
|
Repair
Aaron Pearson (Aaron.Pearson@gxtdotcom) writes:
They are right behind the vw dealer off foothills and pearl. I've had
a variety of things done there over several visits. all good, low key
and friendly.
They're good about explaining stuff to me, and showing it to me if I'm
in their shop. they've done a starter motor, radiator, a bunch of other
related coolant system work, wired in a aux battery, and several oil changes.
they've installed parts that I've ordered from online vendors, and have
talked to vendors (gowesty) about parts to make sure everything works.
They are planning to do a subaru conversion on their own van so they can
practice and start doing them.
Report Date: Jun 2005
|
Verner's
Automotive Service
3280 Valmont Rd. Unit D
Boulder, Colorado 80301
303.444.8307
Note: Does
both Tiico and Subie conversions
(1 Complaint)
|
VW only
Anonymous writes:
Very, very competent, fair bills, right on the estimate. Verner
is low-key and unpretentious, but he really knows his stuff.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Carroll Loyer (cloyer@vrccdotcom)
writes:
My vote, after much experience With my 87 Syncro, including a swap for
a TIICO engine that has worked flawlessly from the time it was put in
is.
Verner is great, and they do a great job!!!
Report Date: Nov 2003
Anonymous writes:
Verner seems thorough but is overpriced, and in my case, he came in 40%
over
his quote which was higher by 50% than other quotes. For that reason I
would not recommend him.
Not Recommended
Report Date: Apr 2005
|
Wolfsburg Autowerks
1001 Lee Hill Rd
Boulder Colorado 80302
|
German Vehicles
Brien Dews (briendews@charterdotnet) writes:
On the way to a music festival in Colorado, we passed thru Lyons. Got
2 miles up the road and my badly limping bus stopped unable to overcome
the mountain grade. Local Subie shop suggested I take the bus to Boulder.
I called Shop #1 in Boulder. "Hello?" Yes, I'm in Nederland and my 84'
Vanagon died. "Ok get towed down here and we'll look at it on the 20th."
Of August, over three weeks later. Called Shop #2 in Boulder. I explain
my situation. The voice on the other end says they can help me, tow it
there, put it on my repair bill and, will look at Betty the next day.
We agree and wish in an hour a truck shows up and hooks up to the bus
and hauls me and my family to a hotel across from Wolfsburg Autowerks.
Mark there was able to squeeze me in and had my beloved bus back on the
road by the third day. Bad oxygen sensor, among other things.
Report Date: Nov 2003
Joy Hecht (jhecht@alum.mitdotedu) writes:
Efficient, professional, clean, don't
rip you off. But they insult "those amateurs" on the Vanagon list, and
think you are daring to question their knowledge if you ask for explanations
of why what they did solved the problem. Don’t seem to believe in having
educated customers. I'd go there again, though.
Report Date: Jun 2005
|
Len Smith's Motors
116 Orchard Ave
Canon City, Colorado 81212
719.275.8058
|
Sales, Repair & Parts
Chas S.Clifton (chasclifton@earthlinkdotnet) writes:
Len sells used cars, with a heavy concentration on Volkswagens, and knows
both air-cooled and water-cooled VWs. He used to work on mine when I lived
in Canon City. He can be a good source for used VW parts.
Report Date: Jul 2005
|
Jay's Bugg House
306 Tiajuana Street,
Colorado Springs, Colorado
719.520.1888
|
|
|
On the Edge Performance
Colorado Springs, Colorado
|
Andre Fiedler (AFiedler@Oglebay.Oncodotcom)
writes:
I have heard that,
Dean Hightower, formerly of SanMaster and now at On the Edge Performance,
do good work.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Grand Mesa Imports
1526 Hwy 50
Delta, Colorado 81416
970.874.5631
gmi@docidotnet
Owner: Bob Birkholz
|
Repair ... German & Japanese
John Klun (jklun@earthlinkdotnet) writes:
Bob rebuilds any and all VW air-cooled/water-cooled
engines. He used to build air-cooled racing engines and knows all the
little tricks of the trade. He also restores classic beetles from scratch.
He does an awful lot of work on Vanagons and rebuilt the engine in my
'84 Vanagon. His prices are extremely competitive and he is very fair.
He does not replace parts on vehicles he repairs arbitrarily but only
if the parts need to be replaced. He passes on any savings he gets from
parts he buys to install in the repaired vehicles. In addition to the
84' Vanagon we bought from him, we also bought an '84 Scirocco MKII and
he has extensively worked on our '86 Jetta as well. Bob also repairs other
German and Japanese cars and he rebuilt a 350 Chevy engine for my truck.
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
Eurasion Motors
1394 S Acoma St
Denver, Colorado 80223
303.777.7913
Close to Broadway & I-25
|
Audi, VW
Anonymous writes:
Not a lot of bells and whistles, but good work done promptly and affordably.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Carlsson Services
0300 McCumber Lane
Florence, Colorado 81226
719.784.4713
Owner: Sam Carlsson
|
Repair & Parts
Chas S.Clifton (chasclifton@earthlinkdotnet) writes:
Sam kept my used 1984 Vanagon running for more than a decade, including
rebuilding the engine. He is fussy and precise and likes complex European
machinery. He is a one-man enterprise, however, so you have to be patient.
Report Date: Jul 2005
|
A&B Import Auto
1943 East Lincoln Avenue,
Fort Collins, Colorado 80524
970.221.4700
970.221.3735 fax
|
Michael Boswell (Vladkaya@aoldotcom)
writes:
They specialize in european autos and have provided me With years of quality,
friendly and affordable service on both my 86 syncro GL and most recently
on the 91 syncro westy I traded for. Before purchasing the 91 westy I
had it checked out by two shops in Seattle (one VW dealer and one independent
shop). Upon bringing the new westy back to the rockies I took it into
A&B for an altitude adjustment and they found several things that both
shops in Seattle had missed. They are thorough and efficient. Their VW
specialist is Charles, he works on both air and watercooled VWs is intimately
familiar With syncros and has years of experience working at the local
VW dealership.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Vee W Unlimited
207 S. Railroad Ave.
Loveland, Ço.
970.667.3682
|
Repair
Robert Shellenberger (shellgreen2002@yahoodotcom)
writes:
Dick, Pat, and Tim ... Very competent
Work on all VWs and foreign cars, Reasonably priced, Efficient and meet
deadlines. Wonderful human beings
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Intergalactic Imports
Oak Creek, Colorado
970.736.8451
|
Repair
Paul Ackerman
(wally@triphidotcom)
writes:
Fred is real character can be hard to get a hold of, but he's a great
guy and really knows his VWs. In a pinch if your Northwestern Colorado
he's the man.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Painters Grinding
831 S. Jason St.
Denver, Colorado
303.722.5537
Fax: 303.722.6764
www.paintersgrindingdotcom
|
Repair
Chei Sewald (butters__@hotmaildotcom) writes:
Good shop. The whole shop knows the in-n-out's of every VW. There's not
a question they can't answer. 10 out of 10 every time I've gone there.
Report Date: May 2005
|
PRYORity Auto Service
1018 W. 7th Street
Walsenburg, Colorado 81089
717.738.2842
Owners: Curtis & Ronny Pryor
|
Repair
Joy Hecht (jhecht@ALUM.MITdotedu) writes:
These folks aren't specialized VW mechanics, but their person loves working
on VWs, used to have one, etc. So if you find yourself in this corner
of Colorado, they're good to know about
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
|
Mechanical Advantage
Barkhamsted, Connecticut
860.738.1480
Owner: Fred Newman
|
Repair
Joe Scott (jscott9020@charterdotnet)
writes:
I would like to recommend Fred Newman of Barkhamsted, CT. He has worked
on my 1985 Westfalia and my 1987 Syncro. He is VW certified and knows
his way around any type of VW. His shop is called Mechanical Advantage
which spells out a VW upside down. The V is a A in his advertisement.
You can call him at 860-738-1480. He drives around normally in a 1956
Bus sundail with a 36 Horsepower motor. He has pin pointed any problem
that I have had with my buses and has fixed them better than I had left
them.
Report Date: Jun 2005
|
Bistol Motor Works
237 East Main Street,
Bristol, Connecticut 06010
860.585.9383
|
German Auto's
Jesse Gallagher
(jesse.gallagher@gtedotnet)
writes:
Dennis, the owner, works on German made autos only, and owns a 1981 Vanagon
himself. It was a pleasure dealing With such a craftsman, and I was happy
to pay his bill, though it certainly wasn't small.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Valley Imported Auto, Inc.
3 Cheryl Drive
Canton, Connecticut 06019
860.693.0747
|
Repair ... Any VW van (or most any car,
really).
Anonymous writes:
The very most important thing this shop offers is integrity. I find them
completely honest. They are master mechanics who will do a masterful job.
I have been been taking my VWs (Vanagon, Jetta, Cabriolet, Thing and now
a Eurovan) to them for fifteen years. The Vanagon has gone 350,000 miles,
the Jetta 250,000.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
People's Auto
23 Field Road
Somers, Connecticut
860.763.0711
Owner : Jim
(2 Complaints)
|
Repair
Ross (rbound@yahoodotcom) writes:
The good thing about this shop
is that there is a small salvage yard of about 20 Vanagons in the back
of the shop. Jim will allow you to take off the parts you need and prices
for salvage parts are reasonable. This is the only Vanagon Salvage yard
in Connecticut.
The bad thing is: Do not trust
your van to this mechanic. I had my heads replaced and it turned out to
be a disaster. In less than 10,000 miles new heads blew again. They did
not even bother to install the o-rings on the cylinders. Not to mention
that they did not clean the engine before the job.
Real bad experience. The shop is dirty
and messy.
Not Recommended
Report Date: Mar 2005
Anonymous writes:
Had a negative experience. Had new boots
replaced, still having problems. Had heated seats replaced, faulty after
only 5 months. Window work was done, still have the same problem as before,
has only been 3 months. Do not recommend. Was ok with shop at first, but
not after work. It's sad, seems like he has so much work to do and so
much demand, he is becoming sloppy. Sad because I heard he used to be
the best around.
Overall Shop
Rating: Below Average
Recommend: No
Report Date: Oct 2005
|
Fischer's Automobile
Repair
3428 Old Capitol Trail
Wilmington, Delaware 19808-6124
302.999.8700
|
VW & Audis
Karl Ploessl (ploessl@sunmac.spect.upenndotedu)
writes:
Horst Fischer is the owner of this repair place (he is of German origin
:-)). He works on VW and Audis. He worked on my '81 VW Vanagon Westy a
few times and I was happy With his work. I talked to a couple which had
their Eurovan fixed and they seemed to be pleased too. There are quite
a few busses, Vanagons and Eurovans in the yard and in the back all type
of VWs from beetles to rabbits, busses... (all orderly aligned :-)
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Prefered Imports
1741 Golf Club Drive
Deland Florida 32724
386.734.0780
|
Repair
Phil Stanhope (napszeerf@yahoodotcom) writes:
Did my Tiico install
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Smitty's
2920 NE 19th Dr.
Gainesville, Florida
352.373.3060
east on 39th St. from I-75
to NE 19th; south 9 blocks on right
St. Petersburg FL area ...actually Pinellas
Park
...but it does not show on many maps
|
VWs & other makes
Chuck Schmincke (cschminc@bellsouthdotnet)
writes:
Knowledgeable, fast, friendly and reasonable!
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Fred R. Williams (fredrw@iopenerdotnet)
writes:
Shop is a 30 yr. place for parts & service ... and I know the owner.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Roger Martin (rdmweb@galleryserverprodotcom)
writes:
I was in Florida and needed an oil change. Since I'm not from around here,
I looked up a shop on this list, . I found Smitty's in Gainesville.
I was a bit nervous when I arrived because their shop is a bit rough looking
on the outside.
But Smitty was extremely friendly. I asked if they'd have time to investigate
my check engine light. They ended up spending 2 1/2 hours investigating
my emissions system and vacuum hoses. They checked individual components
and smoke tested the vacuum lines. In the end they couldn't find anything,
which was disappointing but not a surprise because the code indicated
an intermittent failure. (I've driven 500 miles since then and the light
hasn't recurred, but that's been typical lately.)
The final bill? $78, including the oil change. I consider that extremely
fair.
Report Date: Apr 2004
|
Hill Top Motors
9557 Lem Turner Road
Jacksonville, Florida 32208
904.768.9961
Approx 2 miles west of I-95
|
VWs
Karl Bloss writes:
Courteous, know their stuff.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Beaver Automotive
631 Washburn road
Melbourne, Florida
407.259.4771
|
Todd Diciurcio (Farstars18@aoldotcom)
writes:
VW AIR/ WATER cooled parts & service specializing in new & used parts;
rebuilt engines; buy junk VWs parts 10%-50% off list, open monday thru
saturday 8-5:30
"This guy is extremely reasonable.....if he thinks you can do it yourself,
he'll send you home With the knowledge....an admirable trait in the vw
family
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
|
K&K Automotive
400 E Oak Ridge Rd
Orlando, Florida 32809
407.851.1140
|
Repair
Karl Bloss writes:
Watercooled & aircooled Vans, also all other VWs like bugs
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
TJ Hannink (tjhannink@yahoodotcom) writes:
I had him rebuild some CV axles for me
a long time ago, his prices were good as was his quality of work
Report Date: Dec 2003
|
|
K & K Foreign Car Parts
Inc
5932 Tiner Ave
Orlando, Florida 32809
407.851.6430
|
Parts
TJ Hannink (tjhannink@yahoodotcom) writes:
There is also an auto-parts store behind
the service shop called K&K Auto Parts. I have used them for 12 years
for all my parts and highly recommend them.
Report Date: Dec 2003
|
|
Matlock's VW Clinic
Orlando, Florida
407.273.0386
|
VWs ... Air Cooled Specialists
Liz Allport
(lizallport@aoldotcom)
writes:
We have used Matlock's for years for our '74 Transporter.
Very satisfied. They really care.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Sundance Bug & Buggy
Plant City, Florida
800.992.7549
|
Repair & Parts
Stephen Clark (steveclarkesq@yahoodotcom)
writes:
Dave Clark is a VW specialists from way back. He can ship what you need
with next day service.
Report Date: Mar 2004
|
Aristocrat Volkswagen
4175 Highway 17/92
Sanford, Florida 32773
407.321.2277
|
Jeff Layton (jefflay@novellupgradesdotcom)
writes:
Aristocrat Volkswagen has been been fixing my 89' Westfalia since it was
new. I know that dealers knowledge and reputations are sometimes questionable
but this is not the case With Aristocrat. Two of the mechanics have Westfalia
and I know them very well. Everyone at Aristocrat has been there for a
while and they are very fair and honest. Every time I go to Aristocrat
they are working on some Westys and/or Vanagons. They also have one of
the largest Volkswagen junkyards in Florida With hundreds of VWs and 10,000
sq. ft of parts.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Rick's VW Repair
1724 Snug Harbor Pl.
Sarasota , Florida 34234
941.365.6684
|
VWs
Eileen Marshall
(eileenmarshall@webtvdotnet)
writes:
Rick was factory trained in the 60's and has worked on VWs since. He is
highly recommended by most in the Sarasota area. He works on all the air
cooled and water cooled up to 1990. He came highly recommended to me when
I first moved here 5 years ago, and I've not used any other mechanic since.
He also has his own supply of used parts and deals in new parts as well.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Phil Stanhope (napszeerf@yahoodotcom)
writes:
I have used Rick at Rick's VW many times, he runs about $50 an hour. He
has worked on VWs since the sixties. Call ahead as he gets busy.
Report Date: Mar 2004
|
J&M Auto
2800 S Nova Rd
Unit J
S Daytona Beach, Florida
904.767.2495
Just S of Reed Canal Rd (behind NAPA)
|
Karl Bloss writes:
VWs - all years
Joe is the local guru of VWs and keeps many rolling happily along.
If he can't fix it, nobody can.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Art Ryan MotorWerks
3501 Tyrone Blvd
St.Petersburg, Florida
727.384.0400
(2 Complaints)
|
Repair
Stig Lindow (stig2k@yahoodotcom) writes:
Recommends
Report Date: Mar 2004
Anonymous writes:
Not Recommended
Report Date: Nov 2003
Anonymous writes:
In September of 04, Art Ryan Motor Werks replaced my air compressor. I
asked that it be inspected for other problems that could arise, but was
told nothing.
In October, a belt broke and ruined the pistons. I again took it to Motor
Werks for repairs and have regretted it every moment since. I never received
more than a verbal estimate and it was quoted as between $2500-$3000 to
have the parts rebuilt. I had to call them multiple times to get the work
going, as they were not following up with me at all. I was given no time
estimate, but never expected to be without a vehicle for 3 months. Again,
no one ever contacted me to update me for two weeks. When I called to
check the status, I was greeted with condescending rudeness, which would
only escalate during my dealings with the owner for the next 2 months.
He treated me with enormous disrespect and my inquiries as jokes. At one
point I was hung up on. Every time I called for an update (first every
3 or 4 days, then more frequently as I was repeatedly put on the back
burner) there was a new story.
- the part didn't come in
- they sent the wrong part
- had to order another part
- he was in court
- he'd have it done by the weekend (I was told this on several occasions
and never had it that weekend!)
- they forgot to send the part
All of this time I was in a rental that I was paying for or riding with
friends. When finally he admitted to one of the problems with the repair
being his, he got a rental for me.
I finally did get my van back at the beginning of January, after canceling
holiday vacation plans for Thanksgiving, then Christmas, then New Years.
I drove it home with the check engine light on. The next day, the coolant
light came on. I returned it to be fixed no less than 3 times and it was
never fixed. The last trip there, I was told that I would have to shell
out more cash. I then found someone more reputable.
When diagnostics were run, there were at least a dozen error codes. All
had to do with the way that the engine was reassembled at Motor Werks,
with misrouted air hoses and fuel lines, to name a few. Many other errors
were found and today, it is still not running properly.
Not Recommended
Report Date: May 2005
|
Transmission Hospital
Stuart, Florida
|
Transmission Service
Curt Wilson (signboyslim@yahoodotcom)
writes:
Had my ATF changed at the Transmission Hospital in Stuart Florida with
no hassles, was sent there by the VW dealer!
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Adams
Volkswagen Repair
2409 Pinewood Avenue
West Palm Beach, Florida
561.659.6766
|
Repair & Parts
Eric Tamila (wwwait@aoldotcom) writes:
AC & WC
Really great VW resource! New/Used parts, solid service and experience.
Tell Joe that Eric With the tan 73 bus sent you, and he Will surely give
you a break
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Steve Laurenzano (SteveLaurenzano@kraindotcom)
writes:
Independent shop. Been around for 15 plus years. One of the brother’s
is BIG on ovals and split beetles. Matter of fact, at one time they had
2 of the original Disney herbies.
I have bought parts from Adam’s VW over the past 12 years. Good guy. They
do a lot of wrenching, although I have never personally had to make use
of their services. You may want to call and talk with Joe and tell him
what you have going on.
Report Date: Mar 2004
|
Import Service Center
1590 Dekalb Ave
Atlanta, GA
404.523.6203
Owner: Dan Sullivan
|
Aharon Grossman (aharong@metacuredotcom)
writes:
D&D also recommends ... Dan Sullivan
Report Date: Mar 2005
George Jannini(GeorgeJoannatJunodotcom)
writes:
I just had minor service performed there yesterday, satisfactorily, I
might add
Report Date: Mar 2006
|
The Autobahn Society
425 Braselton Industrial Blvd
Braselton, Georgia 30517
706.654.4749
autobahnsociety@mindspringdotcom
Metro Atlanta area
Owner: Steven Smith
|
Campers for sale and parts
VW restorations, all types
4 in a Row Engine Conversions
George Jannini (georgejoann@junodotcom) writes:
They did my Tiico installation. Good body and paint guy; repaired and
painted my bus, also replaced the *entire* nose clip on a friend's bus,
looks great! Also does AC repair and transmission work.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Mark Cumnock (mjcumnock@hotmaildotcom)
writes:
A neutral rating
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
Pull-A-Part Conley
1540 Henrico Road
Conley, Georgia
www.pullapartdotcom
|
Salvage Yard
George Jannini (georgejoann@junodotcom) writes:
Discount Do-It-Yourself Auto Salvage
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
D & D Garage
Import Auto Repair
10448 HWY 278
Covington Georgia 30014
678.625.0822
Metro Atlanta area
Owner: Steve Dobbs Jr
|
Import & VWs
George Jannini (georgejoann@junodotcom) writes:
Knows Vanagon AC, and can get replacement hoses fabricated. D&D was the
place I regularly took my bus until Steve moved the shop from In town
Atlanta.
Report Date: Nov 2003
Aharon Grossman (aharong@metacuredotcom)
writes:
This guy still is in operation and is very helpful over the phone.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Pull-A-Part Norcross
4416 Buford Hwy
Norcross, Georgia 30071
www.pullapartdotcom |
Salvage Yard
George Jannini (georgejoann@junodotcom) writes:
Discount Do-It-Yourself Auto Salvage
Report Date: Mar 2005 |
EURO Import Service
6287 Highway 85
Riverdale, Georgia
30274
770.994.0016
Owners Name: David Mauldin
|
Repair and Restoration,
All VW's
Gordon Callaway (flash_gordon_30274atyahoodotcom) writes:
Excellent, quality work at very reasonable prices. Has built 2 engines
for me and restored 2 vehicles. While not show quality they are very respectable
drivers that get TONS of attention...without costing me an arm and a leg.
I'd trust him with anything that I drive.
Overall Shop Rating:
Excellent
Recommend: Yes
Report Date: May 2006
|
Allan's Automotive
211 W 40th St
Boise, Idaho 83714
208.345.3421
|
Repair
Vince Crain (syncromon@yahoodotcom) writes:
Friendly, knowledgeable, honest, and reasonably priced!
Report Date: Jun 2005
|
RMF
1661 N Amber
Boise, Idaho
208.322.5789
Owner: Gary Retter
|
Repair
Brian Rencher (brencher@mindspringdotcom)
writes:
A great shop in Boise for the old bugs etc. air cooled stuff. Great
work at a great price. They know the old bugs and vans.
Report Date: Jun 2005
|
Doug's Bugs
504 E 43
Garden City, Idaho 83714
208.376.8018
In a suburb 5 minutes from Boise, Idaho.
The hours are only M-F 8-5 I think, and
they DO NOT take credit cards!
|
Repair
Roxx (chixwithpix@attdotnet) writes:
He does work on air-cooled and other
VW's, and does quick and precise repairs. He set me up with a great emergency
package of fuses and belts at my request, I'll be doing a lot of business
with him.
Report Date: Feb 2004
|
Jeff's Import Auto Werkes
4433 Adams
Garden City, Idaho 83714
208.376.686
Repair
(1 Complaint)
MAY NOT WORK ON VANAGON
ANYMORE
|
Vince Crain (syncromon@yahoodotcom) writes:
Over priced, poor quality work! Worst installation of a second battery
I have ever seen...not even wired correctly! Also lost the side cover
to my seat, and
stripped screws on carpet trim piece.
Not Recommended
Report Date: Jun 2005
Anonymous writes:
Jeff informed me that as of May 1st,
2005 he is no longer working on Vanagon's. Despite the knocking he took
here, I liked his service and trusted him. Need to find a new mechanic
in the Boise area now.
Report Date: Oct 2005
|
Wagon Works
5310 W Chinden Blvd
Garden City, Idaho 83714
208.375.6114
Open Mon-Fri
And they do take credit cards
|
Repair & Parts
Roxx (chixwithpix@attdotnet) writes:
This is a very good repair shop, and if you talk to ERIC, he is the
"Vanagon guy" and he will do honest repairs. Try to ask for him. They
also have a small VW "boneyard" in the back.
Report Date: Apr 2004
Marc Sayer (marcsayer@comcastdotnet)
writes:
Great place, I've known Scotty for over 15 years. Good mechanic, will
not soak you or do things needlessly. The type of shop you can take your
car to and just say "fix it" without worrying that you'll need to mortgage
the house when you get the bill. And it will be fixed right. Will only
work on certain types of vehicles. Scotty has been taking care of my wife's
Volvo for years. But he would never touch my Datsun 280ZX Turbo (won't
do turbos). In fairness, he works on newer cars and prefers to stay with
smaller more modern cars. For a shop set up for certain kinds of work,
taking on a vehicle you do not see much anymore can be a problem. And
I'd rather have someone be honest with me and refer me to another shop
that specializes, than have someone muck around with my
car. Scotty has been learning all he can about hybrids and recently purchased
one himself. I think he is wisely moving forward with the technology.
I have seen many of my friends in the automotive field shut their doors
because they did not embrace the new technologies and their customer base
shrank until it would not support a full time shop. it is hard to make
a living off restorations and working on collector cars. And the fact
is the VW Transporter and Vanagon are most of the way down the road to
collector car status. If they will work on your vehicle, they will do
an excellent job for a fair price and you can not ask for
more than that. Besides they are nice people too.
Report Date: May 2005
|
Jeff's Import Auto Werkes
4433 Adams
Garden City, Idaho 83714 - 4853
208.376.686
In a suburb 5 minutes from Boise, Idaho.
(1 complaint)
|
Repair
Roxx (chixwithpix@attdotnet) writes:
This guy had no interest at all in working
on my air-cooled van, not even brakes! He seemed a bit snobby while telling
me nobody works on air-cooled cars anymore, but he offered to call me
when his electrical guy came in. The call never happened. So I can't say
I can recommend this guy, but he does appear to offer service to later
model VW's.
Not Recommended
Report Date: Feb 2004
|
Import workshop
145 Northwood Way
Ketchum, Idaho
208.725.0527
Owners Name: Art
|
Repair European vehicles, water cooled
vans
Al Trease (atcom10athotmaildotcom) writes:
I have used art and his shop several
times when I've been in the Sun Valley area. Usually, i have had a problem
after a "repair" at another shop that has been done poorly, and when I've
discovered the problem, I'm in dire straits (usually I'm working in the
area and must have reliable transportation). Art has correctly diagnosed
the problem and effected repairs very efficiently. For example, the most
recent time was during a blinding snowstorm, after hours, on a Saturday
nite (I'm not making this up). My brake lights weren't working. I was
able to phone Art. he immediately had me come by the shop and I was quickly
back on the road after his excellent work and some beer and pizza (best
$ I ever spent).
Overall Shop Rating: Excellent
Recommend: Yes
Report Date: Apr 29
|
Independant Automotive Service
301 Bell Drive
Ketchum, Idaho
208.726.3360
|
Repair
Jay (jayfitz@cox-internetdotcom) writes:
Hunter and Gary have worked on VW's for over 20 years. If anyone
other than me works on my syncro westy, its these guys. They're fair,
knowledgeable and good guys.
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
Frank's Repair
252 North 2nd Ave
Pocatello, Idaho
208.232.7365
|
Repair ... AC VW
Shawn Reed (mybug@webtvdotnet) writes:
It's the best shop I've ever been to! Frank's rebuilt two motors for me
and I've had no problems With them. He is the only other person I trust
With my VWs, besides me. Highly recommended!
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Gate City Repair
799 Wilson Ave
Pocatello, Idaho, 83201
208.232.9390
Owners: Jim & Don
|
Repair ... VW's, most foreign makes
and models
Greg Stowell (thestowellman@hotmaildotcom)
writes
Though I am wanting to learn how to do
the mechanical work on my own, I have had these guys work on my VW's,
and they are honest mechanics who do really good work. I have had nothing
but positive experiences with Jim and Don. Great guys! I recommend them!
Overall Shop Rating: Excellent
Recommend: Yes
Report Date: Oct 2005
|
Vintage Auto Werks
6545 Joan Dr.
Belvidere, Illinois 61008
815.547.4323
staff@VintageAutoWerksdotcom
Located 75 miles west of Chicago.
Owner: Dan Scott
|
Repair
|
Hollywood Motors
3637 Woodside
Brookfield, Illinois 60513
708.485.9333
Fax 708.485.3848
|
Repair
wsill2000 (wsill2000@yahoodotcom) writes:
Real mechanics, not just parts changers. My 1982 Westy has an older rebuilt
engine which is carbureted. They diagnosed and fixed my emissions problems,
even calling parts manufacturers if necessary. The shop also sells
high end Big Dog motorcycles, so my air cooled engine was no mystery to
them. They work on about everything, and will even service RVs. Very good
communications, and pricing was fair. Talk to George Mars there.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
|
Manfred's Import Auto
Inc.
44 S Northwest Hwy
Cary, Illinois 60013
847.462.2100
847.462.2101
MIAS1086@msndotcom
|
VW, BMW, Mercedes, Audi
Mark Franz (Mark_Franz/df/us/DadeInt@dadebehringdotcom) writes:
Very thorough, price is fair, very knowledgeable of Eurovans.
Report Date: Dec 2003
|
Import Service
1822 Lehigh Avenue
Glenview, Illinois 60025
847.724.4336
|
Ed Morrell (Edward_Morrell@jdedwardsdotcom)
writes:
Pete (the owner) has done extensive work on my '90 to my satisfaction.
He services a few Vanagons and earlier busses, and does a lot of other
German and other import service. He does not do air conditioning work,
however. Fair prices, and does not mind you bringing your own parts for
him to install.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Autobahn Motorworks Inc
25752 N IL Route 83
Mundelein, Illinois 60060
847.566.3430
|
Repair ... German Vehicles
Ken Ehlert (ken.ehlert@comcastdotnet)
writes:
They only service German built cars.
I have taken every VW I own to this shop at one time or another. A ’64
Bug, ’85 Westy and ’91 Passat. They do great work.
Report Date: Dec 2003
|
North
Chicago Import Autos
1220 North Sheridan Road
North Chicago, Illinois
847.473.4448
Take Hwy 137 east from Hwy 41 and follow turn towards north. Across
from Abbott Labs
|
Mike Peters (mpeters@asapsoftwaredotcom)
writes:
VW, Audi, BMW
Very knowledgeable about VWs, Audis, BMWs, not so much about other Europeans.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Paulli's Imports
111 Phelps Avenue,
Rockford, Illinois 61108
815.398.9598
|
Dave Ohlemacher (Dave@ohlemacherdotcom)
writes:
They have a very good rep With air cooled and water cooled VWs.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Phillips Automotive
310 North Mulford Road,
Rockford, Illinois 61107
815.395.6500
|
Duane (WeBSailn2@aoldotcom) writes:
I've had excellent service fro Phillips Automotive in Rockford.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
K & B Auto Service, Inc.
400 East Frontage Road
Shorewood, Illinois 60431
815.741.1133
Owner: Klaus Wever
|
Repair
Michael Ayers (ayers@krausonlinedotcom)
writes:
This shop is near Joliet, Illinois. Klaus does very good work, but not
fast because Klaus turns his own wrenches. Does a lot of other German
makes and air-cooled work too. A straight shooter.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Chucks Auto
1625 DeKalb Ave
Sycamore, Illinois 60178
815.899.1184
(1 complaint)
|
Sales/repair ... Will Work On: Any VW
and anything they sell
Anonymous writes:
Could not diagnose and fix a security system no-start in over 3 weeks
now. Said he fixed it once, but it's right back where it started. I've
tried taking it elsewhere, but nobody else works on VW's. I'm about ready
to tow it 1 1/2 hours away. I have a feeling he's a scammer.
Overall Shop
Rating: Avoid
Recommend: No
Report Date: Oct 2005
|
Two Brothers Foreign
Auto Parts
6440 W. US Highway 20
Angola, Indiana
260.665.6732
|
Joy Hecht (jhecht@alum.mitdotedu) writes:
I haven't been there, but when my engine blew I talked to them. They do
work on old VWs - I didn't go there because they didn't have parts in
stock.
Report Date: Jun 2005
|
Marks Metric Auto Shop
983 Hyrock Blvd
Boonville, Indiana 47601
812.897.4662
(south west)
Owner: Mark McCown
|
Parts and Service
Jim Kirk (captain@indy.rrdotcom) writes:
Recommended
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Autohaus Merkle Inc
3663 W Michigan St,
Indianapolis, Indiana 46222
317.632.7000
automerkle@aol.com
Owner: Karl Merkle
(1 Complaint)
|
Parts and Service VW & BMW
Jim Kirk (captain@indy.rrdotcom) writes:
Prices are fairly high but Karl knows his stuff. He's straight from Germany.
I've had a couple of problems with them, but it's always been with his
partner Manfred. Manfred is the guy that talks on the phone and writes
up the order. He's the one that seems to screw things up.
Report Date: Mar 2005
Jonathan R Neal (jorneal@iupui.edu) writes:
18 months ago I bought a green 1970 VW Beetle from Karl Merkle; he claimed
it was in "excellent condition" and "a reliable daily driver". It has
never even made it a single month without breaking down. Every time the
car had problems I took it to Karl Merkle's shop: The workmanship was
terrible: he leaves the interior of my car in shambles (carpet ripped
to get at clutch, wires hanging from underneath the dash, etc), and the
work is always half done (example: I asked him to fix the heat so he removed
the covers from the heater channel making it so that the heat is now always
on at full tilt). Karl Merkle's shop is CERTAINLY NOT recommended unless
you prefer friendly guys with German accents to actually having the work
done right. I am actually starting to suspect that Karl has done more
harm than good for my car: I just paid $600.00 for repairs and it was
honestly in worse condition when I picked it up than it was when I dropped
it off.
Overall Shop
Rating: Avoid
Recommend: No
Report Date: Oct 2005
|
Black Forest Motors
3520 N Shadeland Ave,
Indianapolis, Indiana 46226
317.546.6776
(1 Complaint)
|
Parts and Service
Jim Kirk (captain@indy.rrdotcom) writes:
Don't ever go here. I've been royally screwed a couple of times.
If you want the full 2 hour bitch session, just ask me what happened.
Not Recommended
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Walter's Auto Imports Repair, Inc
864 W. State Rd. 25
Lafayette, Indiana
|
Repair
John Cavaletto (cavalett@purduedotedu)
writes:
Is very good with Vanagons. They were recommended to me from a friend
and I have had my Vanagon serviced there. Costs a little more comparatively,
but the service was great and reliable.
Report Date: Mar 2004
|
German Concepts
10599 McKinley Highway
Osceola, Indiana 46516
574.675.0230
www.germanconceptsdotcom
North Central, Indiana
|
Chris (chelvey@helveyconsultingdotcom)
writes:
4 stars from me
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Buggy Works
2600 St. Rd. 37 South
Martinsville, Indiana 46151
765.342.0462
765.342.1666 fax
(mid-south-west)
Owner: Tim Hunter
|
Repair
Jim Kirk (captain@indy.rrdotcom) writes:
Specializes in rail buggies, but will work on all VWs. Great supply of
parts.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Jeff's Volkswagen Repair
10483 N. Kitchen Rd.
Mooresville, Indiana 46158
317.834.6424
317.834.6426 fax
jeffsvwrepair@aoldotcom
(mid-central)
Owner: Jeff Fletcher
|
Parts and Service
Jim Kirk (captain@indy.rrdotcom) writes:
Jeff & Judy Fletcher (nicer folks you could never find)
Jeff is the guy that usually works on my stuff, but he's close to where
I live. He has always done me right. Prices are right and the work is always
done on time and correct. Tell him I sent ya.
Report Date: Mar 2005 |
Happy's
153 E. Main St.
New Albany, Indiana 47150
812.897.4662
(south central - just across the river from Louisville KY)
|
Parts and Service
Jim Kirk (captain@indy.rrdotcom) writes:
Happy Cox (Hell who wouldn't be happy with a name like that!) Happy does
it all. Custom, off road, performance, parts, service, you name it.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Dargie Automotive
1700 NW 11th, Richmond, IN 47374
765.935.2241
Owner: Bruce Dargie
Located at Exit 149 off of I-70 near the Ohio border of Indiana
|
Import Specialist
Paul Retherford (rethepa@earlhamdotedu) writes:
I've taken various vanagons to him for 10 yrs. He is honest, helpful and
knows his stuff.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Richey's Imported Car Service
1612 Lincoln Way West
South Bend, Indiana 46613
219.287.9121
Owner: Richey Milburn
or
Richey's Imported Car Service
1621 Lincoln Way east
South Bend, 46613
(574) 287-9121
Two different set of slightly different
contact info has been submitted.
Trying to clarify which is correct now.
If you know .... please contact me.
roadguy@roadhaus.com
|
Scott Johnson (beauxart@junodotcom) writes:
Anything I feel reluctant about goes to these guys. I think they would
prefer to work on British cars, but seem to know the VWs. They are a bit
pricey, but competent.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Pete Owsianowski (pnocean@earthlinkdotnet)
writes:
Has been very good to our '87 Westy. He has not done any work that was
not needed. He fixed our Idle assist valve at no charge one time.
Report Date: Jan 2004
Pete Owsianowski (pnoceanatEARTHLINKdotNET)
writes:
Richey's in South Bend is good with the bus. South Bend is just 9 miles
from Niles. Richey and Alvin both have VW skills. Richey has worked on
VW, Porches, Audis for almost 30 years. He is an honest man. He
has worked on my bus before.
He is in the process of moving the shop but is still at the Lincoln Way
address.
Report Date: Oct 2005
|
Yancey's VW Specialists
2106 Hwy 50 West
Washington, Indiana 47501
812.254.0266
(south west)
|
Parts and Service
Jim Kirk (captain@indy.rrdotcom) writes:
Frank Yancey (hell of a nice guy. Been in business for years and is very
sharp on all VWs.)
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Chris George Automotive Repair
2152 Twin Springs Road
Decorah, Iowa 52101
563.382.2575
|
VWs
James Fritz (jfritz@decorah.k12.ia.us) writes:
Chris has a one man shop in a run down building. On first glance you
might dismiss it but you shouldn't! Chris is a brilliant guy With all
foreign autos. He's reasonable in his rates (sometimes ridiculously so.
Occasionally I have to tip him because I feel guilty at how low his bill
is!). Additionally he's friendly, soft-spoken and a great guy to have
around if you have VWs. Nothing seems to stump him, even computer problems.
He's worked on all of mine for 15 years and I'm a happy camper!
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Jerry's Bug Shoppe Ltd
4290 NW 2nd St
Des Moines, Iowa 50313-2741
515.282.7940
|
VWs
Susan (faroe78@yahoodotcom) writes:
I've used them to adjust valves and change oil while vacating in Iowa
2.5 yrs ago, and they did a splendid job.
Report Date: Dec 2003
Laura and Rod Woten (Woten.Laura@principaldotcom)
writes:
Contact: Tori
All kinds of bus carcasses around for spare parts and Tori (Javier) and
Cory certainly know their way around a VW! Rod and I had Priscilla's (our
87 Westy) power steering rack replaced a year ago and Tori actually charged
us LESS than the estimation. They have been great to just ask questions
of, too.
Report Date: Feb 2004
|
Jerry's Country Bug Works
20996 Heather Rd
Keosauqua, Iowa 52565-8057
319.293.9113
|
|
Lichty Automotive
7735 Ansborough Ave
Waterloo, Iowa 50701-9242
319.296.2994
Owner: Kevin Lichty
|
VWs
Dieter Family (dieter@cfudotnet) writes:
He is the northeast Iowa VW Reliable Repair guy.
Report Date: Nov 2003
Al Brase (albeeee@mchsidotcom) writes:
Kevin Lichty, the owner, is my friend
and one of the best mechanics I've ever met.
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
Grossman Tuning, LLC
830 South First Street
Louisville Kentucky
502.683.5111
john@grossmantuningdotcom.
www.grossmantuningdotcom
1st at Breckenridge
|
All W's.
Florence Saltzman (worker@bellsouthdotnet) writes:
Recommends
Specializes in the repair and performance
modification of import automobiles
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Volksdoctor
1387 Lexington Rd
Louisville, Kentucky 40206
502.584.3511
Cross street Payne St.
|
General Practitioner for VWs & other
imports.
Joe Denison (misto@ntrdotnet) writes:
This shop stays busy, but they seem to know that our vehicles are very
important to us. This shop does it all.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Westport Road Automotive
Louisville, Kentucky
502.426.6266
|
VWs & other imports.
David Clark (daclark@pscidotnet) writes:
Most honest mechanic I've ever come across. Specializes in VWs.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Foreign
Auto
33 Henry Creek Way
Harpswell, Maine 04079
207.833.0009
jon@foreignautodotcom
www.foreignautosupplydotcom
|
VW & Syncro
Brooks Juhring (bjuhring@hotmaildotcom) writes:
I would like to say what an amazing VW mechanic I have.
At every given time he has over 30 VWs in the driveway of his home. His
attitude and character are a blessing. His honesty is appreciated. His
knowledge of vans, as well as his other two employees exceeds more than
a hundred years of experience. People bring their vans from Ohio, Colorado,
Massachusetts, New York and many many more states. Honestly, one of the
reasons I am purchasing a house where I am is because I know I have found
the one and only mechanic I would ever want working on my van. He's reasonable,
honest, fair and can't be beat.
Ask for Jon
Report Date: Nov 2003
Tim Beidel (tbeidel@maine.rrdotcom) writes:
I have discovered Jon at Foreign Auto
& Supply in Harpswell, Maine. This guy is way off the beaten path (the
road to his home is not paved), but well worth the trip. I'd say 90 percent
of his work is Vanagons, Westies and Syncros. He specializes in TiiCo
conversions but is happy to keep the stock engines going and he is as
fair and honest as the day is long.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Jordan's Foreign Auto
P.O. Box 16
West Poland, Maine 04291
207.998.2761
JFA620@prodigydotnet
www.jordansvw.freeserversdotcom
|
VWs
The Owner writes:
We are a full service VW repair and restoration shop. All work is done
in house to provide superior service and quality workmanship.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Desmond Auto
2621 Taylor Ave
Baltimore, Maryland 21234
410.665.8787
Just off Balt. Beltway exit 30,
~10 miles from I95.
|
Anything VW
Ed Berlett (Berlett@Towsondotedu) writes:
Good honest mechanics. Not cheap but Will fix what is broken.
They are always busy, but might find time for a traveler With an emergency.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Kohout & Brennan
Baltimore, Maryland
410.337.9597
Falls Road and Shoemaker Road, I-83 to Northern Parkway to Falls Road
to just past Lake Ave.
|
VW and foreign
Joselito Q. Tongson (tongsli@erolsdotcom)writes:
Recommended
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Russel Volkswagen
6624 Baltimore National Pike
Baltimore, Maryland 21228
410.744.2300
vw.russelautomotive.com/
(1 Complaint)
|
Dealer, repair, parts, sales .. Will
Work On: ALL
Jack Lowry (jrlowry376atadelphiadotnet)
writes:
In the process of changing the oil on my 93 Eurovan they backed it into
a post in the parking lot, broke the bumper and dented the hatch. They
made a big deal about it had nothing to worry about because "They where
going to take care of it."
A month later we called to see when they where going to do the repair
and the response was "Oh the parts just came into today."
The body work was about average.
The biggest issue, the van developed charging system system problem
just before my wife arrived to pick it. They move the van into the service
bay to troubleshoot it.
The mechanic made a big deal about the battery stating that is was the
"original battery" and it was "bad because I say it's bad." I new for
a fact that it was not the original battery as the original was sitting
on the floor in my garage.
I called AAA and had it towed home. The alternator was bad, the battery
after charging was just fine for 4 more years.
The alternator deciding to go bad at the particular point in time was
a weird to me.
Overall Shop
Rating: Avoid
Recommend: No
Report Date: Oct 2005
|
Martens VW ... Parts & Service
Bethesda, Maryland
5415 Butler Road
Phone: 301.347.0700
www.martenscarsdotcom
|
Eurovan Repair
Michael Wise (mwise@welldotcom) writes:
Martens VW in Bethesda services my '99 EVC, no problems.
Report Date: Jun 2005
|
Walt's VW Service
1204 N. College Ave
Columbia, Maryland 65201
573.449.4171
|
VW, Porsche, Audi, BMW
David Filcoff (dave@251.org) writes:
Excellent service. Really good With Wasserboxers.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Fitzgerald Auto Mall
Frederick, Maryland
866.662.2278
|
Eurovan Repair
Richard Cox (r.w.cox@ieee.org) writes:
Works on my Rialta and they should be able and willing to work on the
VW portion of an EVC. I am well pleased with Fitzgerald's.
Report Date: Jun 2005
|
Westy Ventures
3333 Gapland Rd.
Gapland, Maryland 21779
301.432.4645
syncrowestytd@mindspringdotcom
Owner: Karl Mullendore
|
Vanagon & Syncro (AC & WBX)
Larry Chase (roadguy@roadhausdotcom)
writes:
Highest Recommendation
TDI Conversion Specialist but also does
general repair and renovation. As most of you know, Karl is a fellow list
member, Syncro enthusiast and mechanic extraordinaire. His main focus
is TDI and Diesel conversions but is always willing to help out a stranded
traveler. You can not find a more honest, trustworthy person to work on
your vehicle.
Westy Ventures is also the US distributor
for Propex Furnaces. IMHO, the best heat source for your Van.
Report Date: Dec 2003
|
|
King VW
Gaithersburg , Maryland
|
Eurovan Repair
Report Date: Jun 2005
|
|
Chesapeake Automotive
Enterprise
Reisterstown, Maryland
410.833.7700
|
Custom shop, works on anything
Sudhir Desai (desa4622@ketteringdotedu) writes:
This shop is a little expensive, but they will work on anything Without
hesitation
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Auto Centro Inc.
7406 Westmore Road,
Rockville, Maryland 20850
301.340.2444
|
Tom Forhan (Thomas.Forhan@mail.house.gov)
writes:
I've found Auto Centro (near Rockville Metro) very knowledgeable about
Vanagons, and they have check ratings for quality of work and low prices
from Washington Consumers Checkbook. Great diagnosticians, and also good
at saving money, advising against unnecessary work. I think they are the
best in the DC area, and they are on the Baltimore side.
It's a father-son operation, the father was VW trained back in the aircooled
days, and the son is of the watercooled generation. Together they are
great. After servicing my 90 Syncro Westie for a few years, I bought a
83 9pax sunroof GL. The first thing the father said when he saw it - I
didn't mention the year- was" It's a very early waterboxer. Those are
the ones you have to lift the front end 14 inches before you bleed them."
These guys know these cars, though they tend to work on up market stuff,
Audi Quattros and Porsches.
They are very busy, and have made a conscious decision to not expand the
service department beyond the level they feel they can maintain quality
control. Typically a "first visit" Will be three weeks away. Once you
are an established customer -they maintain three cars for me- they have
better flexibility.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
VW Joe
Severna Park, Maryland
410.544.1483
vwjoe@compuservedotcom
|
Anonymous writes:
A VW mechanic/technician/specialist With 25 years experience. Joe Langlois
has serviced Vanagons since they came out, and currently owns a 1990 White
Vanagon.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Dick's Autohaus
Wye Mills, Maryland 21679
410.827.6501
|
Caron Inglis (caron_1@hotmaildotcom)
writes:
I'm on my 3rd VW (currently a TDI) this is the only place I've taken them
and I've never been less than satisfied. We live in NY now, but still
make
it a point to take the car into Dick's for a service when we're in MD
visiting family. He does it all: general service, repairs, and restoration;
primarily on VWs, but he'll also take in other German makes. These guys
are
fast, fair, and extremely competent (they're also all VW certified
mechaniics), and they've been doing it forever!
Highly recommend them...
Report Date: Apr 2005
|
School Street
Garage
27 School Street
Acton, Massachusetts
978.263.7393
Type of Shop: Repair, Parts
Will Work On: Air Cooled, Water Cooled, EV, Vanagon, Bus
(1 Complaint)
|
Justin writes:
I'd like to give this place a good review- really I would but each of
the two times I've brought my EV in it's come out with something drastically
wrong. First time they replaced the wrong coolant sensors and then didn't
connect up the sensor cables. Second time they replaced the Serpentine
belt and routed it incorrectly- now the belt is squeaking again. So- if
there's an emergency there's a shop near Acton that will be able to get
parts for you and service your car- it'll probably be ready when they
say it will be. However, don't be fooled by continental atmosphere and
the Vanagons and so on in the lot- check the repairs very carefully and
expect to have to revisit the place to get it right.
Overall Shop
Rating: Below Average
Recommend: No
Report Date: Oct 2005
|
Gunter's Foreign Car Service
351 Longview Avenue
Hinsdale, Massachusetts 01235
413.655.2577
1 hr. east of Albany, NY
|
Repair
James Ballen (jamosb78@yahoodotcom) writes:
Definitely Recommended.
Gunter is from Germany, and is excellent w/air-cooled VW's...not sure
if he works on WC, but i think so. He has a small shop out in the woods
of Western Mass., and was always very excited when I brought my '69 Westy
to see him. Very fair pricing and quality work.
Report Date: Feb 2004
|
|
Barnard Street Motors
Marblehead, Massachusetts
781.631.0308
|
VW & BMW
Erik Valeur (ErikValeur@alum.WPIdotedu) writes:
2-man shop With long experience on VW They're very good at diagnosing
"strange" stuff
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Greg's Repair Service
Natick, Massachusetts
508.647.9749
west of Boston 30 min metro west
Boston Area
|
VW, all makes; likes and owns Vanagons
Bob Donalds (bostneng@fcl-usdotnet) of Boston Engine writes:
I recommend customers to Greg's repair every day
Editors Note:
Bob is a master engine builder and
owner of Boston Engine
www.bostonenginedotcom
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Metrix Auto, Inc.
31 Chapel St, Rt 66,
Northampton, Massachusetts
413.586.5943
off I-91, N of Springfield
|
Melissa Mourkas (legacy@javanetdotcom)
writes:
23 yrs experience With all kinds of busses
Excellent service which may cost more than others but worth it.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
H&S AUTO PARTS & SERVICE CENTER
1260 East Street
Pittsfield, Massachusetts
413.443.9702
45 min. east of Albany, NY
|
Parts & Repair
James Ballen (jamosb78@yahoodotcom) writes:
Definitely Recommended.
Not a VW specific shop, but these guys are very intelligent and honest.
They've helped me out many times w/many different VW's that I've owned.
They also have a full parts counter on site.
Report Date: Feb 2004
|
Williams & Kingsley Auto Repair
763 East Street
Pittsfiled, Massachusetts 01201
413.442.1620/499.4147
|
General VW - probably better on watercooled
Nathan Lebron (Nathan.Lebron@GEPEX.GEdotcom) writes:
They redid my ignition switch, starter relay and entire exhaust.
My van is like brand new! They are very polite and the pricing,
I think, was fair. I was charged US$88.00 for my exhaust which I
think is a good price.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Petrosillo Brothers
Bow Street Square
Somerville, Massachusetts
617.623.9000
Boston Area - adjacent to Union
|
VW including waterboxer
James H. McCarthy (jimhmc@MITdotedu) writes:
Recommended
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Leins Auto
65 Bow St.
Somerville, Massachusetts 02143
617.623.9000
|
James H. McCarthy (jimhmc@MITdotedu)
writes:
Recommended ... The brothers have themselves been Vanagon drivers
for years.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Bobs Auto Parts
622 Union St
West Springfield, Massachusetts 01089
413.736.3278
From Rt 5, go onto Rt 147
Type of Shop: repair & parts
Will Work On: VWs
(1 Complaint)
|
Veronica Zdun (NZDUN@aoldotcom) writes:
They have done all of the work on my VWs and have always given me the
best price. They are great!!
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Anonymous writes:
I read good reviews about Bob's on the internet & figured I would try
to give my business to the local shop vs. the dealer. I brought in a wheel
bearing & brought it with me to be installed. I indicated the side that
required replacing & was ready to be on my way. The guy behind the counter
tells me "yeah it's like that 95% of the time but sometimes they fool
you." So after hearing this I confirm that I hear the bearing whenever
I turn left, that means right wheel bearing right. He says "yes". I get
a call on my cell phone saying that the right bearing has been replaced
but that's not the bearing that is having the problem it's the one on
the other side. He offers to replace the other bearing for 1/2 the labor
cost. I'm on my cell phone an hour away from my car that is currently
up on a lift. I do the math and figure $70 bucks to worth a new bearing
& keeping the guy from screwing with anything else on the car until I
get back to the shop. I probably have 2 new bearings on my VW now but
I'm never taking it back to those guys. They also have this classy little
blurb on the bottom of their receipt about all unpaid work will result
in a mechanic's lean against your vehicle.
Overall Shop
Rating: Avoid
Recommend: No
Report Date: Oct 2005
|
Murphy Brothers
57 Quincy Shore Dr
Quincy, Massachusetts 02171
617.328.1125
|
VW/Audi
Michael J Sullivan (sullivan@openmarketdotcom) writes:
Every week they have Vanagons on their lot. Fairly competent With
all VW/Audi makes. But they DO know their Vanagons. My only
concern is that they are somewhat derogatory and "flip" when it comes
to Vanagons.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
European Car Sales
Ironwood, Michigan
906-932-5720
(Upper Peninsula); About 45 minute
drive from Bruce Crossing.
|
Anonymous writes:
Ask for Eric. My brother-in-law sez they do Vanagons, and have them
for sale as well. Recommended as a capable shop in the U.P. of Michigan.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Foreign Car Services
1104 Portage Rd.
Kalamazoo, Michigan
616.342.6994
|
German
Anonymous writes:
The shop does a range of German cars, lots of nice Porsches, and BMWs
in the lot, but they know VWs too. Not cheap, but appear to be very competent.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Spring Valley Motors
735 Mill St.
Kalamazoo, Michigan 49001
616.381.6070
|
Anonymous writes:
It's a really good shop.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Joy Hecht (jhecht@alum.mitdotedu) writes:
Very nice folks, and they totally know their stuff. They have a huge yard
full of parts vans, and all they do is old VWs.
Report Date: Jun 2005
|
Arie Nol Auto Center
5189 Eastern Ave SE
Kentwood, Michigan 49508
616.532.6019
|
European - but all makes
Mark Rokus (marokus@voyagerdotnet) writes:
Honest Quality Work - By Appointment - normally a 1-2 week wait
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Doug's Imports
Northern west coast, Michigan
616.347.6341
about 50 miles south of the Mackinaw Bridge.
|
Foreign
Carl Hansen (carl_hansen@ieee.org) writes:
I have always done all of my own work on my 20 or so VWs and this is the
guy I go to in a pinch.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Doug's Import Service
2529 Atkins Road
Petoskey, Michigan 49770
231.347.6341
Lat: 45.36314 N
Long: 84.91999 W
Northern Michigan
|
Eurocars & VW
John Meeks (Tjmeeks@gaslightmediadotcom) writes:
Doug does aircooled and wbx as well as all eurocars. He is a Vanagon owner
himself and all the local vanagonauts use his services. Reasonable prices,
uses OEM parts, and an honest guy.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Autohaus
4411 Delemere
Royal Oak, Michigan 48073
248.649.3636
gdro@kodedotnet
www.ahrodotcom
|
Repair .... Specializes in VW, Audi,
BMW, & Porsche.
Anonymous writes:
They've had the same mechanic for some 30 years.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Steve's Auto Repair
6941 Grand Haven Road
Spring Lake, Michigan 49456
231.799.9452
|
Repair ... Vans, Syncros, Eurovans,
Air cooled and Water Cooled
Eric Seifert (ebus53@yahoodotcom) writes:
Excellent service from a VW Enthusiast.
Steve has owned a T2 Westy, has numerous VW cars and busses in his lot
undergoing various stages of repair. From simple to Frame-Off restoration.
Report Date: Dec 2003
|
Munk's Motors
3080 West Huron (M59)
Waterford, Michigan 48328
248.681.8081
www.munksdotcom
|
Repair
Matt Currie (elsunra@yahoodotcom) writes:
The people at Munk's very knowledgeable and extremely helpful. They helped
me out With a new starter, some engine work on my tiico, and new control
arm bushings. They know all about Syncros and even have a Syncro project
for the shop.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Steve's European Automotive
4920 Pontiac Lake Rd
Waterford, Michigan 48328
248.674.2770
|
VW and Audi
Steven B Fowler (email@stevesvwdotcom) writes:
Recommended
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Volkswagen Man
718 East Hennepin Ave
Minneapolis, Minnesota
612.331.3245
|
VWs
Kevin Mulligan (mulligan_kevin@yahoodotcom) writes:
They specialize in VWs (air and water cooled), are honest, conscientious
and reasonably priced. I have found them to be more knowledgeable than
the dealer in many cases.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Budd Premack (bpremack@wavetechdotnet)
writes:
5 mechanics, busy (natch), ask for Mark who does some mechanical and most
of the scheduling. They are honest and technically capable, but
not perfect.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Gene's Repair, Inc.
100 Industrial Drive
P.O. Box 10
Eagle Lake, Minnesota 56024
507.257.3312
|
VW and Imports
Dale Hartman (zeldah@PRAIRIE.LAKESdotcom) writes:
Located about 5 miles east of Mankato in Southern Minnesota. I think at
one time he only worked on VW, but moved into other imports as need increased.
If you go there let him know you heard about him from the vanagon list
and tell them Dale, the guy who had his '84 Westy overhauled With one
of Boston Bob's engines, I'm sure he will be pleased to know that a good
word has been passed along about him.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Ron's Foreign Auto
Repair
Co. Road #331
Benton, Missouri
573.545.3614
|
Anonymous writes:
Located about 4 miles off Interstate 55, between Cape Girardeau and Sikeston,
Missouri, or about 2 hours south of St. Louis. He knows VWs, appears to
be honest, and hourly rate is very reasonable.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Jay Roth (bghuna@mchsidotcom) writes:
I've delt personally with Ron and that was 10 years ago (and I owned a
75 Beetle)... if he's still in business in his backyard I would HIGHLY
recommend him...he is TRUE TO HIS WORD and will do anything to make your
VW run. Actually, since I've moved 200 miles away, I wish he were closer
now that I own a Vanagon!
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
Bullards Auto Service
15707 E.24 Highway
Independence, Missouri 64050
816.252.9392
816.461.4017
|
Import Repair
Hermann de Boer (urlauber10@hotmaildotcom)
writes:
They have been working on my 87 Westy since 1995 and my 89 Syncro since
2002. Scott did my Eurospec conversion 5 years ago. Reliable and cheap.
They have several Vanagons on the lot and work mainly on imports.
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
The Autobahn Inc
8100 Watson Road
St. Louis, Missouri 63123
314.843.1003
theautobahninc@yahoodotcom
|
Porsche/Audi/VW
Son of Owner ... John (jjvincent100@hotmaildotcom) writes:
Ask for John Sr.
This is my fathers shop. I worked there from when he opened to about 1996.
I have since moved away from the area and do not work there any more.
He has worked on Porsche/Audi/VW Vehicles for a long time (that location
since 1977 and he has since the early 50's). You can trust him and he
won't take advantage of anyone. He might not be the cheapest but he can
do it right. He always says, "We're high but were here." He also has a
VAG-COM (he won't turn off lights for free) and can work on the latest
EV's out there. If he doesn't have the latest information he can get it
(he has a very good working relationship With the local dealers since
he was a service manager for a long time). One other thing, "Just don't
be cheap."
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Wolfsburg
7830 Watson Rd
St. Louis, Missouri 63119
314.961.5637
From I-44 exit Elm, S. to Watson, L pp. 1 mi.
|
Type of Shop: Repair
Will Work On: all vws as far as I know
Anonymous writes:
Friendly, reasonable, can usually take a car on short notice. Reasonable
- for a dealer. I only go there if I absolutely have to. Svc
Manager's name is Bruce. Parts guy is Ron (always ask for
10% off--he usually does) . 2 mechanics that are suppose to know
wasserboxers.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Anonymous writes:
Overall Shop Rating: Excellent
Recommend: Yes
These guys are straight up. This is the place to go. They've been in bus.
for a long time and there's no BS. I will always take my vws here.
Report Date: Oct 2005
|
Dana
Motors
2046 Grand Avenue
Billings, Montana
406.656.7654
gateway to northeast entrance of Yellowstone Park
|
VW
Bill (BILLV2@prodigydotnet) writes:
VW Dealer
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Brax Euro Parts
Divide, Montana
406.267.3321
23 miles South of Butte
|
Parts
Oly Olsen (olyolsen@bresnandotnet) writes:
I whole-heartedly recommend Brax Euro Parts.
They have just about one of everything used and almost as much new. They
are open weekdays and Saturday by appointment only. Very honest and will
ship same day. Brack has worked on VW’s just about his whole adult life
and has been my personal guru for the last five or six years.
Please email me personally before using anyone in the Great Falls area,
I have plenty of stories…I’m on the A/C rescue list as well.
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
Reliance Automotive
1000 1/2 n. 1st St
Hamilton Montana 59840
406.363.2360
We are 45 miles S of Missoula down Hwy 93; next door to the Pizza Hut
Western Montana
|
VW and Subaru
Anonymous writes:
Long established garage, With a great reputation for honesty and quality
work. 25 years experience in VW repairs
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Mountain Imports, Inc
1800 South 3rd West
Missoula Montana 59801
406.721.3395
|
Import Repair
Gerald Masar (azsun99@earthlinkdotnet)
writes:
VW authorized service. Not a dealer, but a large independent garage.
Clean, efficient and very busy. There are LOTS of Vanagons around Missoula
and usually several here. Just be very specific about what you want done.
Talk to Ray Wilson, the owner, if possible.
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
Cordel Foreign
Motors Inc
8616 L Street
Ralston, Nebraska 68127-1624
402.592.2288
|
Robyn Rudisill (robyn.rudisill@homedotcom)
writes:
I found them to be honest, timely and quite friendly. They did a great
job on my 91 Westy Syncro.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
4 Ever 4
Route 10
Marlow, New Hampshire
603.446.7820
near the junction of State Routes 123 and 10.
|
VW, air and water cooled
Michael and Diana Elkavitch (elks@top.monaddotnet) writes:
Gordi does parts, repairs, sales, etc. and does it well.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Wicklunds Foreign Auto
240 North State St.
Concord, New Hampshire 03301
603.224.2102
800.287.2102
(1 complaint)
|
dsantan (dsantan@cyberportaldotnet) writes:
Bob is a crusty devil who has been maintaining our Gon for years. According
to Bob, his record time for getting an engine out of a VW is six minutes
-- "on the ground", as he put it. Last time we were there, he had four
Gons on the lot and another on the lift! Bob works on aircooled
and watercooled engines, and does the head gaskets on watercooleds routinely.
He doesn't do major engine work like rebuilds, but will do just about
everything else.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Jon Hathaway (jon.hathaway@verizondotnet)
writes:
Last spring I bought an '87 Syncro on
e-bay that the owner had sitting at Wicklunds. When I asked about the
Van, explaining that I had been in contact with the vans owner, they told
me that the Van would NOT be released until they were paid in full.
After getting the title and bill of sale from the Van's owner and making
sure the repair bill was paid, I went to bring the Van home. The
shop owner comes out and starts the conversation with "just what the hell
do you think you're doing with my Van...?" After explaining that the bill
had been paid and I had the title and a notarized bill of sale his comment
was "Good, get this POS off my lot!" "I'm tired of looking it, and the
guy who you bought from was a real jerk!" He then proceeded to tell me
he overcharged the PO for a used computer ($300), that all the coolant
hoses were bad, and he hoped the thing caught fire after I left his property
(due to bad fuel lines). I proceeded on my way... Got 4-5 miles down the
road and the Van quit. The Van completed its journey on the back of a
flatbed. When I started looking at the engine compartment I discovered
two broken ground straps jumpered by one 3' piece of wire. Called
the shop, asked what that was, owner said didn't know anything about it.
Also discovered 4 loose hose clamps, multiple disconnected vacuum lines,
and the idle bypass screw on the throttle body completely closed. The
"bad" ECU was thrown in the van after they said they dug it out of the
trash (actually watched a tech pull it out of the bottom of his tool box).
This original ECU has since been tested and recertified with no problems.
Reconnected all vacuum lines, adjusted idle bypass, tightened clamps,
changed cap + rotor (have shop receipt saying they had done a "tune-up"
at $300), changed the plugs (removed 3 different brands), new wires (old
ones were so brittle that two broke when I was removing them), new exhaust
pieces, o2 sensor (they had charged $100 for "generic" one, but must have
forgotten to actually install it!).
The Van now runs like a top.
Not Recommended
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
Volks-Tech
426 High Street
Burlington, New Jersey 08016
609.387.3031
www.mysite.verizondotnet/vze1phsb
|
Ann Rowley (Wolfave@bellatlanticdotnet)
writes:
"They are super nice and really know their stuff."
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Dan Reed (danjreed@yahoodotcom) writes:
This place knows VWs - but for some reason
they tend to cater a
little more to the air cooled crowd. Nice folks. Small shop. About
1 hour from Philadelphia.
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
Van-Again
2001 Lakeshore Dr.
Millville, New Jersey 08332
609.327.0027
609.327.2242 fax
Sales@vanagaindotcom
www.vanagaindotcom
|
Owner Ken Wilford (Sales@vanagaindotcom)
writes:
If someone is passing through the area they could call me and I would
be glad to get their van back on the road.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Dan Reed (danjreed@yahoodotcom) writes:
The Owner Ken is a super nice guy. Small
shop, parts in stock. TIICO
installer. A little north west of Cape May NJ.
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
Foreign Car Services
54 Washington St.
Mt. Holly, New Jersey 08060
856.267,1515
Owners: Karl and Allen Konen
|
Repair
Joe Federici (joefederici@earthlinkdotnet)
writes:
I just recently visited a new to me repair shop in South New Jersey and
found the owners to be very helpfully and will be using him in the future
to put some new springs and shocks on my Adventurewagen. One of the things
I like is they have done a few engine conversions and had no worries about
working on my Subaru VW.
Established in 1975, they work on all foreign models and specialize on
VW. When I stopped by they has two air cooled buses and a 2001 bug in
the shop. They also do restoration and motor conversions. Right off the
bat I noticed the shop was spotless. A very good sign in experience.
Report Date: Apr 2004
|
Clarence's Volkswagen
520 Pavillion Ave
Riverside, New Jersey 08075
609.461.9589
info@clarencesvwdotcom
www.clarencesvwdotcom
(Philly area)
Owner: Clarence Newtown
Type of Shop: Sales, Parts, Repair Service
Will Work On: Aircooled, Watercooled, Eurovan???
(1 complaint)
|
Anonymous writes:
Friendly and honest
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Joe Federici (joefederici@earthlinkdotnet)
writes:
I went to grade school (early 80's) just down the street from his shop
and walked past it most days. At the time VW's were far from my mind but
the lot was always packed with air cools. Since then I've been back to
buy parts and would say he's one of the local un known experts in the
phily area for air cooled VW. He also stocks used parts and vans.
Report Date: Dec 2003
Dan Reed (danjreed@yahoodotcom) writes:
Small parts yard. Small shop. A few Vanagons
in the scrap yard. Has a Syncro and a few Transporters imported from Europe!
Located 30 min from center city Philadelphia.
Report Date: Jan 2004
J writes:
My van failed emissions (NOx). The receptionist at Clarence's told me
they do emissions, so I dropped off the van. The next afternoon I called
to inquire about the status of the van. That's when I spoke with the mechanic
who worked on the van. He told me that they couldn't test for NOx, and
that they were not recognized by the state (NJ) to perform emissions work.
He said my timing was out, and he adjusted that for me. He also told me
that I need brake work, that the pedal was pulsating, and I probablly
needed new back brakes, and possibly new drums. The kicker is that I just
did all four brakes on my van myself. I went all out too, new brakes front
and back, new drums, new rear cylinders, all new hardware, new rotors
and bearings, and new calipers. To top it all off I even changed out all
the brake fluid. The last thing my brakes do now is pulsate. Synopsis
I paid 50 bucks to get a brake snow job, and my timing tweaked. Who knows
about the emissions, they could be better or worse.
Overall Shop
Rating: Avoid
Recommend: No
Report Date: Oct 2005
|
Hackel's VW
1374 Central Ave
Albany, New York
518.458.2897
|
AC & WC
Patrick O.Dolan (podolan@artsci.wustldotedu) writes:
Run by Bob Hackel, who handles all the aircooled. Son does the more modern
stuff. Bob knows his stuff!
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
German Auto Repair
Technicians
(VW-Audi-Porsche)
1 Elm Place
Amityville, New York
631.789.2426
|
Repair - Eurovan
Billy (BillySeagull@aoldotcom) writes:
Recommended
Report Date: Jun 2005
|
Pierce Auto Parts
Route 20
Bouckville, New York 13310
315.893.1844
25-30 miles SE of Syracuse in Central upstate New York
|
All VWs, some add'l foreign makes
Robert E Smith (resmith@norwichdotnet) writes:
Have used them for all servicing and repairs on my 1985 Westfalia.
They've always been very efficient and thorough in their work and the
price is reasonable. Shop has been in operation for a long time.
Well established.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Terry LaCasse VW
902 Central Nassau Rd.
Hoags Corners
East Nassau, New York 12062
518.766.5654
Rt 66. - Troy off Rt 20 in
Nassau. Left @ Hoags Corners Inn.
|
VWs
Jason M. Yasment (jyasmen1@nycap.rrdotcom) writes:
He has been working on VWs since the 60's and knows his way around a Vanagon.
He has several on the lot for sale. Theses are really beautiful machines
and hardly have any rust on them for being in the salt belt.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Bob Walion (quartersaw1@earthlinkdotnet) writes:
Very knowledgeable about all air/water cooled cars. Very honest,
very fair prices on repairs. Has (small) VW junkyard on site. This is
where I go when I have a problem I can't solve.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
|
Gene's VolksWorld
74 Hampton Place
Freeport, New York
516.868.6210
|
Repair - Eurovan
Billy (BillySeagull@aoldotcom) writes:
VW specialist - 27 years
Report Date: Jun 2005
|
Freeport Sunoco
301 W Merrick Road
Freeport, New York
516.623.8693
Owner: Scott Resnick
former VW Service Mgr
|
Repair - Eurovan
Billy (BillySeagull@aoldotcom) writes:
Recommended
Report Date: Jun 2005
|
Universal
Imports of Rochester
834 Linden Ave
Rochester, New York 14607
706.381.8677
Take Linden (441) exit off 490, turn towards Penfield, follow 441 aprx.
2 M, Right on Linden Ave, 1/4 M on left
|
Import including VW
Dan Buttarazzi (dannyboot@hotmaildotcom) writes:
Probably the best import shop I have ever seen. Reliable and
extremely efficient
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Foreign Car Repair by Steve
152 South Long Beach Road
Rockville Centre, New York 11570
516.766.9572
If your traveling via the main highway, head to Long Beach and follow
Long Beach road all the way though the town of Long Beach, through Ocean
Side, towards Rockville Centre, it’s about a 15 minute ride from the town
of Long Beach.
|
VW, BMW, Volvo, and Mercedes
Robert Stewart (robertmstewart@macdotcom) writes:
Most know his shop as just “VW Steve”
The owner is Steve, a nice guy who listens to your needs and does quality
work. His shop is lined With only VW’s, everything from bugs, buggies,
classic type2’s, and a couple of Vanagon’s.
His prices can be a bit high for his hourly rate but he’s worth it. The
van had the intermittent syndrome and he solved it With ease, that was
4 months ago and I have driven hundreds of miles Without problems since.
If you want your parts fast, and at the best price order via one of the
web stores and have it sent directly to VW Steve or bring with you.
Hope this helps everyone in the New York & Long Island Area.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
|
Steve's Foreign Car
Repair
152 S. Long Beach Road
Rockville Center, New York
516.766.9572
"VW Steve"
|
Repair - Eurovan
Billy (BillySeagull@aoldotcom) writes:
Recommended
Report Date: Jun 2005
|
|
Dennis Haynes
Suffolk County,
New York
Long Island,
631.563.8248
dhaynes@optonlinedotnet
The middle of the Island in Suffix county
near a train stop.
|
Derek Drew (derekdrew@rcndotcom) writes:
No list of shops is complete without putting Dennis Haynes, of Long Island,
New York in there. Dennis is one of the 10 most talented Vanagon and Syncro
mechanics on the list, a really nice guy, and incredibly knowledgeable
and committed to syncros. He is also not afraid to try new things or to
customize or to innovate, and is competent to do so. I would say that
any Vanagon owner within 500 miles should run, not walk, to have Dennis
be the main mechanic on their vans, especially for big stuff that in another
mechanic's hands might mean the end of the vehicle. The downside? Time.
Dennis really does not have the time to service all the vehicles that
come to him, so it pays to beg, bring cakes, presents, butter him up,
etc. Also, if it is a big job, your van will not be ready when you hope
it will be ready, most likely, so know this going in.
Report Date: Apr 2005
|
Daltech, Inc.
St. James, New York
Long Island
|
86-91 Vanagons
Sven Schulz (svengali@erolsdotcom) writes:
Basically private shop, but can do anything. Machine shop also.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Kaddo Auto Sale
15th & Hutton Streets
Troy, New York 12180
518.266.1454
|
Levin Harris (hlevin@globalspecdotcom)
writes:
Mike Kaddo has been working on VWs for over 20 years. He is one of the
nicest mechanics that you will ever meet. He is never to busy to answer
your question or lend a helping hand With your VW. He works on both air
and water cooled VWs. He has done work on my 80 westy as well as my 99
jetta, and my roommates 69 Notch Back. He is a true VW lover.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Vestal Import Service and Sales
933 Vestal Parkway West
Vestal, New York 13850
607.754.9124
Open M-F 8-5 pm
Owner: Mike Dunlop
|
VW/Audi/Porsche/Benz
Chris Pellegrini (Chris.Pellegrini2@baesystemsdotcom)
writes:
Taken my bus there three times (once towed by AAA they diagnosed a bad
sensor and replaced it). They are so busy the problem is getting a slot
for your vehicle. Rate is $55 an hour. They only do German vehicles ..
see above. Normally end up dropping 50 - 150 per repair.
Report Date: Feb 2004
|
Triple G Automotive
1600 W Morehead St
Charlotte, North Carolina
704.333.0058
Corner of Moreheat & Freedom Dr
|
VWs
Vicki Derrer (VICARY2U@aoldotcom) writes:
Owned by Steve Gorth and his brother Bobby. They specialize in VW and
Porsches. They're the only people I have found around here (other than
the dreaded dealers) who will work on Wasserboxers. Steve has done great
work on my 85 Westfalia: leaking coolant, my AC, replaced fuel lines in
engine compartment, and other miscellaneous stuff. He understands "used"
and "rebuilt" and can solder and renew when a replacement can't be found.
He is honest, resourceful, efficient, and reasonably priced.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Lonnie's University Auto Repair
Christian St.
Durham, North Carolina
off Hillsborough Rd,
near Cole Mill Road Exit off I-85
|
All sorts of VWs
Jim Henry (jch@jchgisdotcom) writes:
Very good shop.
Great knowledge of Vanagons and VWs, many used parts.
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
Foreign Accents
5316 W. Market St
Greensboro, North Carolina 27049
336.294.2137
Central North Carolina
|
All foreign repair
Joe Kivett (ceksrk@aoldotcom) writes:
Bosch certified. Contact Scott Beeninga, the bug guru
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
James Garrison (jhg1600@hotmaildotcom)
writes:
Foreign Accents handles everything from Freightliner Sprinters to Porsche
911's. But they particularly like Volkswagens. One of the two owners likes
bugs, the other other is into Syncro Vanagons. I do all of my own work
on
my 71 bus, but I let Steve, the Vanagon tech handle my 93 Multivan. They
have always done a good job for me in the past. Although it is mainly
a repair shop, they also sell parts if you ask. About 40% of my parts
come
from here. Foreign Accents is the only shop left in this area that will
even touch a Vanagon or a late bus.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
V.W. Werke
1981B Bethel Dr
High Point, North Carolina 27260
336.989.6372
robert@vwwerkedotcom
www.vwwerkedotcom
Owner: Robert Aldrich
|
Robert Winfrey (PSI-RWINFREY@triad.rrdotcom)
writes:
It is rare to find an auto mechanic that you consider so good that he
influences you on the type of car that you purchase. For me, Robert Aldrich
is such a mechanic. Although I have known and done business for many years,
it was a relative recent event that moved him into that category for me.
I had purchased a 1991 Jetta. The seller had knocked $700 off the price
because he had been told that it needed new engine computer.
I called Robert and told him what the seller had told me and asked him
to take a look at the car. After checking things over he took the timing
belt off and took off the two gears off. Both look identical. He switched
them. Saying that they were 180 degrees difference between the two, and
that the timing gears had been switched. After re-installing the timing
belt and re-setting the timing. The car immediately started.
Not only is Robert a VW expert, par excellent. I have always found him
fair with reasonable pricing and honest.
Report Date: Mar 2005
Don Winters (dwinters1@triad.rrdotcom)
writes:
Rob Aldrich has been a diehard VW mechanic and European car mechanic for
years. He is the only mechanic that works on my 85' Westfalia as well
as my 88' Cabrio with a 16valve motor( that he built). He has also built
and maintains my 1988 Mercedes 300SE and my 1968 911L Targa. His true
passion is Volkswagen transporters and buses and conversions to biodiesel.
Check his website at www.vwwerkedotcom for further info on that . If you
are in the area and need to get going again from a breakdown, he can do
anything from a temporizing measure to a rebuild. His rates are very fair
and his work is great. Robert will always give you the best price possible
and a fair estimation of what is needed, without doing unnecessary repairs.
Report Date: Mar 2005
Mark Biernacki (CPA@LoboDirectdotcom)
writes:
I have an 86 Syncro and I love it. It broke down in High Point NC. I was
referred to Robert at VW Werke and he did a great job on my bus. I would
highly recommend him.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Back from the Dead VW
43 Moccasin
Hill Road
Leicester, North Carolina 28748
828.683.5465
828.649.9777
vlkswgn@bellsouthdotnet
www.backfromthedeaddotcom
CLOSED
|
VW restorations
Chris Maness (deerleg@hotmaildotcom) writes:
This is the place!
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Mark Cumnock (X2CUMNOC@southerncodotcom)
writes:
Recommended
Report Date: Apr 2004
cliffie1960atcomcastdotnet writes:
Back from the Dead is dead. Went bottoms-up in Feb of '04 (not sure how
the April '04 report got in there) and got evicted, but not before they
took my money and did nothing to my bug. Good riddance.
Overall Shop
Rating: Avoid
Recommend: No
Report Date: Oct 2005
|
Metric Motors
2718 S. Saunders St.
Raleigh, North Carolina 27603
919.828.9774
|
David Higginbotham (dahigginbotham@hazenandsawyerdotcom)
writes:
Jerry specializes in Porsche and BMW, there is always at least one restoration
in progress in his shop at all times. He will work on VWs and Japanese
vehicles as well. He rebuilt the engine in our 82 Westfalia two years
ago and the only time I have had a problem, a 'breather hose'? came off
(it would not idle), I called him from the road and he told me what to
do over the phone. He has a very dry sense of humor, is reasonably priced,
his shop is in an industrial area of town.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Reynolds Repair Service
1501-A Gavin Street
Raleigh, North Carolina
919.821.0007
|
All sorts of VWs
|
Transporter Werkes
518 South West Street,
Raleigh, North Carolina 27601
919.834.2800
|
Bob (Bobink3@aoldotcom) writes:
Sean Frasier of Transporter Werkes is incredible. We have replaced just
about everything on our '86 Westfalia, including the engine, and he has
been wonderful. He is located near the Amtrak station on West Ave.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Anonymous writes:
Small 2 man shop but they do excellent work.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Village Motorwerks
2120 Clark Avenue
Raleigh, North Carolina 27605
919.832.0899
|
David Higginbotham (dahigginbotham@hazenandsawyerdotcom)
writes:
Greg specializes in European automobile's.
His daily driver is an 81 Westfalia, same color as mine, we bumped into
each other in the grocery store parking lot and swapped bio's. I have
never had him do any work on my vehicle but there are always several vans
and older busses and various European vehicles in front of his shop. He
is easy to talk to and eager to talk VW, I have not idea of his prices,
his shop is part of an older urban upscale shopping complex.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Touring Car Imports
300 Seaboard Dr.
Stallings, North Carolina 28104
704.821.7023
|
Porsche, BMW and WC Vanagon
VICARY2U (VICARY2U@aoldotcom) writes:
They specialize in Porsche and BMW but they are a great water-cooled Vanagon
repair shop as well. Dan, the owner, has several Vanagons and Westies
of his own. Really nice guys.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Foreign Aide
San Pedro & Constitution
Albuquerque, New Mexico
505.255.9417
|
VW & Audi
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
FAST
(Foreign Auto Service Technicians Inc.)
2786 Agua Fria
Santa Fe, New Mexico 87501
505.471.0326
|
VWs & Imports
Peter Noto (peter_noto@bigfootdotcom) writes:
My '86 Westy decided to act up
100 miles east of Santa Fe. The long and the short of it is I found a
wonderful shop to help me out. "The owners name is Jim and his manager
of 18 years is Jeb. Jeb is the man, I don't think I have met a more energetic
or knowledgeable tech. These guys new I was stuck and did every thing
they could to help me out, including letting me camp in their parking
lot. They attack the problem by discussing the possibilities With me,
and then trying the cheapest routes first. I was allowed to work With
the tech 'Raul' who was responsible for my Westy, and he was very informative.
If you live near Santa Fe, or find yourself stuck in the area give them
a call, you will be pleasantly surprised.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
John A. deVries II (aubois@traildotcom)
writes:
I would like to second Peter Noto's recommendation. I started using FAST
about 14 years ago for a '77 VW bus which they kept going until my son
took it to auto shop. Since 1994, I've continued to use their services
for a '87 Vanagon With excellent results. Jim and Jeb are the kind of
guys who are truly enthusiastic about car repair, not merely extremely
competent (as are also the techs they employ.)
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Leo's Independent
VW
190 S. Maine St.
Fallon, Nevada 89406
775.423.6306
|
Kevin Inmon (kinmon.geo@yahoodotcom)
writes:
Leo is a life long auto mechanic and life long VW mechanic. What he doesn't
know about them isn't worth knowing. He has performed maintenance, rebuilt
transmissions and engines for all my Buses and Bugs as well as done work
on other family vehicles. Very knowledgeable. Doesn't do work unless it
is necessary. Will give you the straight scoop, whether it's on the repair
or service needed or on the time frame required or when he can get to
it. I'm real happy with his work.
Report Date: May 2005
|
Meyer's Service Center
3552 Boulder Highway
Las Vegas, Nevada
702.457.1252
(1 complaint)
|
David Schwarze (schwarze@mail.ev1dotnet)
writes:
Gets my vote. Got front ball joints replaced there in my '73 for a fair
price, and the work was well done. One of the few places in the country
I would trust With my bus. Too bad they are 1,100 miles away from where
I live now.
There are no good shops that I know of in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area metroplex
... it's a VW Wasteland. :(
Report Date: Nov 2003
Skip Emmert-Keaton (skip@skipemmertdotcom)
writes:
Not Recommended
I have heard wonderful things about Meyers in Las Vegas, but when we took
the Westy to them with a burnt valve they told us it wasn't worth fixing
and we'd be smart to scrap it or sell it. This is an '80 Westy with less
than 80K miles and is in great shape. I wouldn't take my van to a mechanic
that thinks it's scrap.
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
Wolf-Grs Performance
4300 North Pecos Road
North Las Vegas, NV 89030
702.651.9360
|
Repair
Skip Emmert-Keaton (skip@SKIPEMMERTdotcom)
Wolf is my mechanic. Can't say enough good things about the shop. When
I lost an exhaust valve, a competing shop told me the van wasn't worth
fixing and I should scrap it. I took it to Wolf, who spent extra time
explaining things to me, helped me cut corners where I could and alerted
me to other problem areas. He diagnosed some other issues with the van
and told me which ones I could fix myself. If you're anywhere near Vegas,
Wolf is someone you can trust.
Oh, and BTW, he does drive one VERY bad Syncro. I've asked him not to
park it next to mine at the shop. It gives mine a complex.
Report Date: Feb 2004
Diane Daniel (dadaniel261@msndotcom)
writes:
I was driving from WA state to TX and had car troubles in the middle of
the desert near Vegas. I found your web site and did some research trying
to locate a VW repair shop in Vegas....thanks to your web site I found
Wolf's repairs in Vegas.
Wolf's is AWESOME! Wolfgang (the owner) is a tall German dude. His staff
is very friendly and knowledgeable. Wolf took the time to actually "show
me" what was wrong with my car. His staff also helped me get set up with
a rental car, while my car was in Wolf's shop. We found out that Wolf
is the premier repair guy in Vegas. Does a lot of custom work but also,
the place were the other car dealers send their cars! We had two different
car rental drivers and both of them stated that they had never heard any
negative comments about the quality of service done at Wolf's shop.
Thank you roadhaus for the great system to locate VW repair shops.
Report Date: Feb 2004
|
Bart's Auto
1725 E 2nd
Reno, Nevada 89502
702.329.4349
|
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
J & J VW Vans
260 Telegraph Road
Reno, Nevada 89502
775.323.4943
|
Repair & Sales
Robert Stratton writes:
They're true-blue VW lovers, and specialize in Syncros. They also do very
nice work and I have to say that they have a good eye for Westies. They
tend to only buy vans free of rust and fix them up before sale, and from
the looks of their own Syncros, they know how to take good care of them.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Richard Angelini (richard@ballydotcom)
writes:
GREAT mechanics on watercooled and aircooled vans. Very honest,
no shortage of business.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Community Volkswagen
404 Holtzman Ave.
Columbus, Ohio
800.339.0119
|
Steven Shane (s.shane@poboxdotcom)
writes:
Specializes in Vans. Good alternative if Motorkars is too booked up.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Motorkars
1020 King Ave.
Columbus, Ohio 43212
614.297.1811
M-Th 8:30-5:30
F 8:30-5:00
|
VW and Audi
Stark Hughes (covvc@earthlinkdotnet) writes:
Been in business for over 20 years. Works only on Volkswagens and Audis.
Complete rebuilds, repairs, and maintenance. Up to date on all technical
aspects, fair prices, excellent reputation. Four bays, four certified
technicians. I have and will continue to recommend them to anyone looking
for quality work done right the first time. Done business With them for
18 years.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Joe Coleman writes:
This is a family owned and operated shop, as it has been for years.
They are very good and very honest. They work on only VW and Audi,
and they do air- and water-cooled VWs of all types, including
busses, Vanagons, and Eurovans. They have worked on my A2 Golf, and
my A3 Jetta, and luckily I have not had the occasion to take my EV
there yet. They are hard to find because they only have a small
engraved rock for a sign. They don't advertise, getting all of their
business through word-of-mouth and repeat customers. The downside of
this is that they usually have a two-week waiting list, unless it's
an emergency.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Vintage
Volkswagen Repair
3758 April Lane
Columbus, Ohio 43227
614.235.5384
Located off Courtright Rd. Just south of Livingston in the April Lane
Commerce Park
|
All Models With great knowledge in older
models
Dennis Rupert (drupert@flashdotnet) writes:
The owner Carl Dewhurst has over 30 years
experience with Volkswagen. Give him a call. His
credentials are impressive.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
The Barn
32 West 1st Street
The Plains, Ohio
740.797.4026
|
Repair
The Harmisons (harmison@highstreamdotnet)
writes:
We have a local group of guys in the area that have had a VW repair shop
for about 25 years. The Barn. They work primarily on VW's, but also do
other vehicles (like rebuilding our Honda Odyessey engine recently). They
have done a lot of work on my 1973 Super Beetle. There are always multiple
late model VW's being worked on when we go over. They build and race VW
buggies and even have their own Thing.
Report Date: June 2005
|
Lakeland
Import Auto Service
2704 Milan Rd
Sandusky, Ohio
419.627.9626
corner of Rt 250 & Perkins Ave
|
VW, Audi, and other Foreign
Keith Krager (lakeland@crosdotnet) writes:
Recommended
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Streetsboro Foreign Auto
9796 St. Rt. 14
Streetsboro, Ohio 44240
330.626.2456
|
Vanagons & Foreign
Anonymous writes:
A good shop in the Northeastern Ohio area. The owner Elmar Kruza is an
expert With Vanagons has has a reputation of being fair and prompt.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Mark Fagus (mfagus1@netscapedotnet) writes:
This shop is top notch. Very fair, knows Vanagons extremely well and will
work with their customer and will not recommend repairs not immediately
needed.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Jan's Auto Repair
Westerville, Ohio
Columbus area
(1 Compliant)
|
Joe Coleman writes:
Not Recommended
I have a horrible story of how they botched my transmission seals and
made me poor.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Earl Mann's Bug Shop
Ardmore, Oklahoma
580.223.6061
|
VW bugs and other VWs
Larry Collett (wrkdrpout@yahoodotcom) writes:
Does good work at fair price. Been in business 20+ years
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Bavarian Autohaus Incorporated
5727 N. Interstate Drive
Norman, Oklahoma 73069
405.364.7260
Owner: David Herr
Chief mechanic: Bo
right on Interstate 35 at Norman, Oklahoma, just south of Oklahoma City.
|
BMW Specialists - also do work on VW
Maggie Dew (maggie@westfamdotnet) writes:
Although they are "BMW Specialists", the chief mechanic, Bo, has a lot
of experience with both Volkswagen and Subaru and had no qualms about
working on my conversion when I couldn't figure out a wiring issue. He
also did the power steering rack and ball joints for me. The owner, David
Herr, bought a Westy himself a year ago and seems to really enjoy it as
I see him driving it on a regular basis. So, although not VW specialists,
they've done good work for me.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Neff Volkswagens
P.O. Box 5692
Hwy 9 west and May Ave
Norman, Oklahoma 73070
405.387.9285
(on S. corner)
Newcastle area
|
Complete restorations and tune-ups
The owner Brad Neff (Judyneff23@aoldotcom) writes:
I do complete restorations and have industrial booth for paint (Can fix
it all and be perfect!) I have 15yrs experience and can repair anything
on a VW.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
DKV Euro
1504 South Green Ave
Purcell, Oklahoma 73080
405.527.6450
dkveuro@flashnetdotcom
exit 91 or 95 off I-35,
next to cement plant
Middle of Oklahoma
|
All imports, 35 years of VW experience
Don the Owner (dkveuro@flashnetdotcom) writes:
One man operation, all mechanical work, including welding.
Air or water cooled. Call collect if you are stuck, but specify
vehicle.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Dynabug Automotive
9921 E. 44th Pl.
Tulsa, Oklahoma 74146
918.664.2147
info@dynabugdotcom
www.dynabugdotcom
|
Repair
Greg Boyles (greg@bluehalodotnet) writes:
Dynabug has been a major VW shop in Tulsa for over 20 years. They work
on anything VW new or old including sand rails and kit cars and stock
a huge assortment of OEM and aftermarket parts. Their work is very high
quality - I just had a fresh 1776 built by them and it runs like a top.
I frequently see many of the local clubs show winners in this shop.
Report Date: Jun 2005
|
J & J Werkstadt
1630 Ferry SW
Albany Oregon 97322
541.928.6618
|
VWs and Foreign
aliesse2003 (rliesse@aoldotcom) writes:
It's a two-guy shop - I heard great things about them from several people
I know who have foreign cars (not just VWs). Mike always test- drives
Kermit ('77 Westy) before turning him back over to me, and, knowing I'm
not mechanical-minded or wealthy, diagnoses problems that may crop up
and tells me my options for fixing them - or whether it's safe to ignore
them a little longer.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
M & M Automotive
21135 SW TV Hwy.
Aloha, Oregon 97006
503.642.1622
(1 Complaint)
|
Repair ... VWs
Janelle Adams (emmjay@prodigydotnet)
writes:
I've been dealing With them for over 25 yrs. they (nick) know their stuff
when it comes to v.w.s they are a second generation shop. With the third
generation working there now...I wouldn't trust my rides to anyone else.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Peggy Day (lazyday@easystreetdotcom)
writes:
Nick is very knowledgeable, and VWs are all that they fix.
Report Date: Jul 2002
Leonid Goldgeisser (goldgeisser@yahoodotcom)
writes
My overall experience with this shop is very positive and I would recommend
it. I used it many times for my two Syncros.
Report Date: Mar 2005
(kirksoule@comcastdotnet ) writes:
Nick has done great work for me over the last 8 years. He is knowledgeable,
friendly, fair priced, and goes the extra mile for you. He has gone out
of his way on several occasions to: find replacement parts that were much
less expensive than new ones, talk me through repair tips when I was broken
down and on the road away from home, suggested repairs that I could do
on my own, talked me out of unnecessary repairs that I thought were needed.
I trust his work and have sent others to his shop.
Report Date: Apr 2005
Randy Sanford (sanfordz@hotmail) writes:
In Oregon the “M” in D & M and M & M is the same guy that had a hand in
starting both businesses. Both businesses talk trash about each other
now though, but both are the best in VW repair in the area I have been
to both, “Nick” at M & M is funny too.
Report Date: Apr 2005
Deon Reynolds (d@deonreynoldsdotcom)
writes:
These folks did more damage than they
fixed. I went in for a cooling system service (to check them out as a
new shop possibility). They ripped the bra, broke off the antenna, left
half the bolts off the dash, lost the knob the rear locker, the heater
controls were not connected and the lights on the heater controls are
still out. After going back three times to have them fix things they screwed
up, I gave up and went to another shop, spending more money than the flush
and fill to repair their mistakes!
Not Recommended
Report Date: Jun 2005
Leonid Goldgeisser (goldgeisser@yahoodotcom)
writes:
My overall experience with this shop is very positive and I would recommend
it.
I used it many times for my two Syncro's.
Report Date: Jun 2005
|
Euro Mek
564 A St
Ashland Oregon 97520
482.4256
|
Repair
Gary (fatmedia@yahoodotcom) writes:
Really helped me out when my starter gave out Monday on a trip from the
Bay area to Seattle. Euro Mek was able to install the starter in my van
after I found that I was missing the wrenches in my toolkit. Special Kudos
to Euro Mek for dropping several jobs they were working on and fixing
my van right away so that my fellow caravaners didn't have to wait three
hours with me.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
|
D & M Automotive
12970 SW Beaverdam Rd
Beaverton, Oregon
503.646.4191
just off Tualatin Valley Highway
|
VW Repair
David (david@dalbey.org) writes:
I've had nothing but positive experiences with D & M Automotive. Their
prices are fair & quality is outstanding. I have used them for many
years for both air cooled and water cooled VW's.
Report Date: Jan 2004
Randy Sanford (sanfordz@hotmail) writes:
In Oregon the “M” in D & M and M & M is the same guy that had a hand in
starting both businesses. Both businesses talk trash about each other
now though, but both are the best in VW repair in the area I have been
to both, “Nick” at M & M is funny too.
Report Date: Apr 2005
|
Canby Import Auto
Corner of Ivy St & Hwy 99E
Canby, Oregon
503.263.6181
(Across from the 7-11, located in the
old Ford
dealership across from the railroad tracks, in
the same building as Canby Glass)
Owner/Mech: Steve
|
Repair .. VW's of all types
Thomas Amy Arnold (dogbox7@msndotcom) writes:
Steve has worked on every VW we have ever owned, for any number of reasons.
From a complete rebuild of a very, very nice 1600 Type I engine that could
maintain 100+ MPH speeds (and was a daily driver...) to the replacement
of our Cabrio's water pump, we have never had any complaints or even questions
as to the quality of his service. He is well known in the area for being
willing to help with the odd emergency or answer questions at the drop
of a hat. Service is quick, reliable and never any BS - if it's broke,
trust me it's broke! (He has a box of "parts" on his counter to prove
the point, one of which is from my 1600...). And speaking from experience
and those of friends we've referred there, by not having to deal with
the BS, he will save you money, time and frustration and get you and your
ride down the road, happily and safely.
Report Date: Apr 2005
|
Beaver Creek Bob's
24215 Hwy 101 So.
Cloverdale, Oregon 97112
503.398.5869
|
shamus gamache (moosetrack@backpackerdotcom)
writes:
The owner is friendly. He has several VWs in the front shop yard. That's
all I know about that shop. Oh yeah, He is only open during the week Monday
thru Friday 8 till 4ish.
Report Date: Dec 2003
|
Independant Bug Werkz
605 SW 13th St
Corvallis, Oregon
541.752.4884
by Oregon State University
|
Wassers mainly
Brian Tipsword (nobleman36@yahoodotcom) writes:
Recommended
Report Date: Nov 2003
shamus gamache (moosetrack@backpackerdotcom)
writes:
These guys are good also. Sometimes a
little more expensive then Halsey, but they're top notch mechanics and
are really experienced.
Report Date: Dec 2003
|
John's RV Repair
Coos Bay, Oregon 97420
541.267.0452
|
Eurovan Repair
|
Second Street Foreign Car Service
801 S 2nd St.
Coos Bay, Oregon 97420
541.267.6701
|
Repair
Sam ( samwp2@aoldotcom) writes:
Good Shop in Stumptown
I know they know their way around Syncros very well.
Report Date: Dec 2003
|
Don Burkin Auto Repair and Machine
NAPA Autocare Center
91810 North Coburg Road
Eugene, Oregon
541.484.1538
fax 541.484.2979
|
Repair ... air cooled and water cooled
other Susan (faroe78@yahoodotcom) writes:
Highly Recommended!
Don belongs to the Good Times VW Club of Eugene. He is straight up and
honest, and knows his stuff. Anytime I have needed work done, he is able
to get it done while I wait, and has actually made room for me in the
schedule. I have only ever seen him drive VW's. If you run into trouble
in Eugene, Don's the man.
Report Date: Dec 2003
other Susan (faroe78@yahoodotcom) writes:
I still recommend Don's Repair on Copburg Road, "in Eugene". (He's actually
north of Coburg, go figure the USPS' thinking). In fact, I recommend Don
so very highly that I don't know what I will do when he retires. If you
have a prob with a repair he has done, he will figure it out, and he stands
behind his work. It is for that reason that I use him. He's smart and
he knows what he is doing. He built my current bus engine for me, after
I cooked the 1600DP. This one is a 2L bus engine. He had to fab mounts
and he did so much to make it the engine it is. It ought to have
an external cooler--I'd feel better about summer driving and eventually
travelling back east--but otherwise, I am having a blast with it. Because
of Don.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Hug-a-bug
Eugene, Oregon
541.484.9162
|
Repair ... VWs
Ted Robinson (Ted.Robinson@co.lane.or.us) writes:
I have used Hug-a-bug here for over four years. My 1985 Westfalia runs
great, and they always return it to ready to run, no problems down the
road. The are also known as Thramer Brothers, I believe. Great brothers
who love VWs.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
No Name Garage
4210 W. 7th Ave
Eugene, Oregon 97402
541.344.2251
(1 Complaint)
Notice ... New Owners
as of Mar 2006
NEW OWNERS Dave and Miles
|
VWs ... Anything VW
Greg Vaughn (gvaughn@compuservedotcom) writes:
Fixing Volkswagens for longer than anyone can remember.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Michelle D'Amico (fireflyglows@earthlinkdotnet)
writes:
Boy did I have a bad experience with the No Name Garage.
Tom seemed so nice before he got my $1400 bank check (should've used a
credit card to protect my purchase!) Was rude and didn't want to deal
with me once I informed him the just purchased Vanagon I was having him
do suspension work on would no longer go into 1st or 2nd gear sine he
adjusted it!!!
He told me to get used to it and then after 2-3 weeks bring it back down
to him (He is 130 miles away) but I took it there since I bought the Vanagon
down there and paid this shop to do a pre-purchase inspection. I told
him I was not leaving until he fixed it and he said he would NOT, until
later. He said he was convinced it was my driving style. Next day, I let
a Vanagon owner attempt to drive it and he couldn't get it into 1st or
2nd once, and he told me it was terrible.
Scary thing is is that he gave me the thumbs up on the condition of the
engine and the tranny on this car, and as I stood watching his young mechanic
hoist my van up, and got underneath the car, the tranny was a leaky mess!
The mechanic kid said that all Vanagon trannys leak that much and it means
nothing. I took it straight to No Name after buying it and it was perfectly
fine before!
Not Recommended
Report Date: Mar 2005
Julianna Thoennes (mumbrue@comcast.net)
writes:
Overall Shop Rating: Excellent
Recommend: Yes
I just want to start out saying that the No Name Garage has new owners.
Grouchy ole Tom is completely out of the picture, and the service is now
great! I just love Dave and Miles! I have had nothing but good things
to say about them. They have worked extra hard to make me happy. My old
Tiico engine threw a main bearing, and No Name Garage happened to have
one Chris Torlasco sold to them still. (very lucky!) I decided to try
them out, even with the negative remark from here. I am so glad that I
did! They are very knowledgeable guys, with lots of VW experience, and
history behind them. I had them put in a new transmission and clutch,
along with the Tiico, and new brakes all around. I picked my van up, and
had a problem with my O2 senser on the way home. (They had just transferred
it over from my old engine) I know they test drove it, because I called
while Miles was out driving it. It drove fine for me for several miles,
then had lurching problems. I took it back, ! and they put in a Bosch
O2 for me at no charge. They didn't have to do that, but they did, knowing
otherwise it might look bad on them. It totally fixed the problem. They
really do stand behind their work! Anyway, I definitely recommend these
guys. Please give them a chance to rebuild their name and reputation!
Thanks!
Report Date: Mar 2006
|
Wagon Works
388 W. 133th Ave
Eugene, Oregon 97401
541.345.6414
|
VWs
Greg Baskin (Greg@GoldMountainMiningdotcom) writes:
One of the two Scotts at Wagon Works is a Vanagon Master. It's a pleasure
to work With these straight-shooting guys in a very small shop. I always
drive away With confidence. Also, if you want to know the name of a Vanagon
specialty shop in Eugene to *avoid*, drop me a note!
Report Date: Jul 2002
|
Mountainside
Import Auto Service
Newberg, Oregon
503.537.4085
|
VW AC & WC
A&C Grobey (alien1@JPSdotnet) writes:
He used to work for a VW dealer and has a lot of experience With the Waterboxer
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Always VDub
Portland, Oregon
503.235.2757
|
Parts & Repairs
Jeremy Norris (psychfellow@hotmaildotcom) writes:
Recommended
Report Date: Nov 2003
Bob Peak (WestyR@email.msndotcom) writes:
Good source of VW parts, especially air-cooled.
No known standardized repair cost list so repair costs can vary from average
to expensive.
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
A & P Specialities
707 SE 82nd Av.
Portland, Oregon 97216
503.254.7310
Owner:
Alan Blanchard
|
Repairs
Bob Peak (WestyR@email.msndotcom) writes:
Best I've found on the east side of Portland.
Diagnosis problems rather than replaces parts. Al Blanchard is great to
work with and flexible. Works on both air-cooled and wasser-boxer. Has
successfully done TIICO installations. Cost factor: average. Work quality
is excellent.
Report Date: Jan 2004
Craig Spaeth (spaeth@gorgedotnet) writes:
These guys are great. They charge, I
believe, $60 an hour for shop time, but they have saved me tons of money
through efficient testing and troubleshooting. They do not just start
replacing parts. They follow procedures, find the bad parts and replace
just those that are needed. I drive 60 miles each way just have them do
the work on my Vanagons and Audis. I am very picky about mechanics and
have used Alan for years now.
Report Date: Apr 2004
Justin B Hall (audi4000quattro@hotmaildotcom)
writes:
If you need some work done in Portland I would recommend Alan at A and
P. Alan is very good and very fair on his price.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Halsey Import Automotive
Portland, Oregon
503.256.0182
(1 Complaint)
|
Repair & Parts
Jeremy Norris (psychfellow@hotmaildotcom) writes:
Recommended
Report Date: Nov 2003
Shamus Gamache (moosetrack@backpackerdotcom)
writes:
The only shop I use ever is "Halsey Imports" on like 76th and Halsey.
Just go up Halsey during the week and drop your van off. These guys are
good enough to leave your van with and will have it fixed at a reasonable
cost. They know how to shift in reverse without having to ask or grind
anything.
Report Date: Dec 2003
Bob Peak (WestyR@email.msndotcom) writes:
They have both a good parts department
and a repair facility. Repair cost factor is average. Quality factor is
very good. Lead mechanic can be opinionated.
Report Date: Jan 2004
Gerry Murphy (Gerry.Murphy@radisysdotcom)
writes:
Bad attitude - Bad Carma - and Unprofessional
to boot.
I have recently had the reason to deal with them (for my VW Eurovan).
Their representative (Tom) has the worst attitude of any person I have
come across in sometime.
Not Recommended
Report Date: May 2005
|
Hans' Foreign Auto Service
7045 N.E. Glisan
Portland, Oregon 97213
503.254.5859
|
VW, Vanagon & Foreign
Katie Crabtree (KRABBPHROG@aoldotcom) writes:
Hans has been our family's mechanic for over 10 years now. My parents
each own a Vanagon and I bought my Vanagon from Hans. Hans is a Volkswagen
factory trained mechanic and trained the mechanics at Riviera Motors,
what was the premier Volkswagen dealership in Oregon (back in the 70's
and 80's). He knows everything Volkswagen, and is a Vanagon fanatic himself.
He is one of the most honest, kind people I know and he takes good care
of all of his customers.
Report Date: Jun 2002
Andrew Richards (Andrew.Richards@slsportsdotcom)
writes:
Hans is in the process of stepping back from the wrench turning part of
the business, as he's been working for or on VWs since the 70s. Works
on all types of VWs. He really knows Vanagons and has owned several himself.
Jason is taking over most of the repair work, but Hans is still very involved
in his shop. He's taking more of a hobby approach to it these days like
rebuilding engines on dead vans just for fun. On my van, one of the heads
started leaking again after only 10K miles. Hans told me all the work
would be covered at his expense. No questions asked. Their shop rate is
fair. Hans also is German and has an accent, which can be comforting for
some of us diehards.
Report Date: Apr 2005
|
Heckman-Theiman
24th & SE Powell Blvd
Portland, Oregon
503.233.4809
|
All VW, Porsche, & Audi
Ben Wager (ben_wager@hotmaildotcom) writes:
They charge $58/hr, but I'm convinced they do the job better and quicker.
Very high quality. Two of the dozen mechanics have a German accent.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Bob Peak (WestyR@email.msndotcom) writes:
One of the best in Portland but expensive.
Quality of work is very good. Mechanics and front office staff are somewhat
aloof. Work on all VW's. They back all their work without charge if you
get back to them relatively soon after repair work. Usually do repairs
right the first time.
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
Precision Motor Car Ltd.
132 NE Grand Av.
Portland, Oregon 97232
503.232.7669
Located in inner east side of Portland
near I-84.
Excellent source for highway emergencies.
|
Repairs
Bob Peak (WestyR@email.msndotcom) writes:
Good for basic repairs and tune-ups.
Have successfully installed TIICO engines. Works on all VW's. Darryl Chasteen
is good to work with and flexible. Cost factor: average. Quality factor:
good.
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
Rife Motors
Portland, Oregon 97211
503.774.0415
just off of highway 205 at
the Johnson creek exit
|
Brian Healey (brianhealey@cluemaildotcom)
writes:
Scott rife is a one-man shop and does impeccable work...his shop is so
clean you can eat off the floors...he's the only mechanic I've ever had
who saves the old parts and explains to you why they needed replacement/fixing...as
honest as the day is long
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Strictly German
Autowerks, Inc.
8003 SE 17th Ave
Sellwood, Oregon
503.233.0030
Portland Area
(3 Complaints)
|
All VWs & Air-Cooled Porsches
Anonymous writes:
They have a local reputation of being
either "OK" or "A Bunch of Crooks" depending on who you talk with.
Not Recommended
Report Date: Apr 2004
Anonymous writes:
I wouldn't recommend them simply because
I've heard of too many negative "issues" over the years. I've met the
owner two times years ago and he can be very acerbic.
Not Recommended
Report Date: Apr 2004
Craig Spaeth (spaeth@gorgedotnet) writes:
I would stay far away from any relations
or recommendations of Strictly German. The owner James Lutz yelled and
swore at me over the phone and
threatened to sue me if I relayed my story to others. The same result
happened to a friend of mine who he built an engine for. I believe him
to be a very creative and competent mechanic when he cares to be, but
if warranty issues arise watch out. I can give you the gory details if
you want but the bottom line is I ended up spending $750 on a splitty
transmission that locked up on the highway one month out of the warranty
period. I had some repairs done to it within the warranty period and was
charged for them. I was told I was lucky it went that long. Anyway I was
out the money and had several very uncomfortable confrontations, bordering
on scary, and will do all I can to make sure others don't go through this.
I would think it was a personality clash between us or something but number
one I have never had that kind of problem before and number two my friend
had the exact same experience on his engine deal.
Not Recommended
Report Date: Apr 2004
|
Trafton's Foreign Auto
15570 SE Stark
Portland Oregon 97233
503.253.4621
Owner: Bill Trafton
|
VWs, AC / WC & Porsche
Jasan Carsley (jacars@comcastdotnet) writes:
Bill Trafton is the owner and is a very nice and honest guy. If something
can be fixed he can do it and if it doesn't need it he will tell you and
is Willing to offer advice on what you need to do to fix it yourself.
He specializes on VWs, AC and WBX's and has recently again begun working
on Porsche 356 models (He owns two himself). He does rebuilds on both
engines and transaxles and has reasonable prices. His hourly rate is $60.
Bill also always has a few buses and other VWs out back for parts if you
are in the need. He is also trained to work on the old Eberspacher gas
furnaces.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Obie's Import & Domestic Repair
1114 Southwest Frazer Ave.
Pendleton, Oregon 97801
541.276.2061
|
VWs & Imports
Jim Arnott (jrasite@eonidotcom) writes:
Obie is one of the good guys. His shop is THE factory authorized repair
facility in NE Oregon. He has always done more than right by me. Knows
them all. From 36 horse to VR E-vans. Has the parts contacts (if he doesn't
have it on the shelf) and if you are on a serious budget, he'll tell you
how to do it. Can't say enough good about him and his shop.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
German Motors
1290 12th ST SE
Salem, Oregon
503.585.4759
|
Repairs
Brian Tipsword (nobleman36@yahoodotcom)
writes:
Water - cooled mainly
Recommended
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Autoworks
215 N Water
Silverton, Oregon
503.873.8089
Owner:
John Seger
|
Repair
Brian Tipsword (nobleman36@yahoodotcom) writes:
Water - cooled mainly
Recommended
Report Date: Nov 2003
Thomas Amy Arnold (dogbox7@msndotcom)
writes:
Steve Bass is the owner and is along
the same "old"-school lines as Steve Campbell at CIA in Canby
Report Date: Apr 2005
|
Silverton Aircooled
711 N Water
Silverton, Oregon
503.873.2826
Owner: Steve Bass's
|
Repair ... Air-cooled
Brian Tipsword (nobleman36@yahoodotcom) writes:
Recommended
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
McKenzie Auto Service
122 36th Street
Springfield, Oregon 97478
phone 541-746-4999
(1 Compliant)
|
Repair
Susan (faroe78@yahoodotcom) writes:
Monroe rebuilt an engine for me and never
stood behind his work. I'd tell him it was overheating, and all I got
was "well those air-cooled engines will do that in hot weather." I could
barely drive it downtown. I've been really disappointed in him. In some
ways he is such a good mechanic and a good man, but other ways ...
Not Recommended
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Springfield German Import Svc
3520 Olympic St # L
Springfield, Oregon 97478
541.741.1842
Owners: Zack and Kelli
|
Repair & Parts ... VWs
Cris Torlasco (bsutton@gladstone.uoregondotedu) writes:
Definitely VW people, have been doing exclusively VWs for many, many years.
Zack and Kelli (owners) love vintage VWs, and have a collection of them
and related memorabilia. They also organize a very nice (and free) swap
meet every year. Apart from working on my vintage VWs, this shop did the
engine conversion from 1.6 to 1.9 NA diesel in my transcontinental Westfalia,
and I have no complaints to this date. Their mechanics are friendly and
knowledgeable, and they will let you watch them working on your VW if
you are persistent enough, something that is rarely seen these days.
Here is an example of their honesty:
I brought my 91 Westfalia ("Fafner") to them and asked to redo the brake
system. They called me an hour later saying that there was absolutely
nothing wrong with my brakes, that you couldn't really get more brake
power from a stock Vanagon system. No charge. Some other shops would have
"touched" things a bit and charge me for who knows what.
Editors note:
Click Here to check out Cris's incredible journey -
Travesía Panamericana
Report Date: Dec 2003
Susan (faroe78@yahoodotcom) writes:
Recommended
This place is worth visiting just to see the VW memorabilia collection!
I use them mainly as a parts store, but they do service too. Zach and
Kelly are the
owners, wonderful people. It is THE place in the Eugene-Springfield area
for VW parts.
Report Date: Dec 2003
Marc Sayer (marcsayer@comcastdotnet)
writes:
These folks are the BEST! It's a friendly, family atmosphere. They know
the cars and do excellent work. They have maintenance parts on site, and
the coolest collection of memorabilia. Very fair prices. I first went
to them when Scotty at Wagon Works in Eugene OR did not want to mess with
my leaky gas tank. Scotty referred me to Zack. And since that first visit
I've made them my regular repair shop for the Vanagon. They are honest,
and fair. They will not soak you with expensive parts and needless repairs.
They fix the problems right the first time, for the least cost possible.
They will get you in and out without keeping your car for days. It is
just a pleasure dealing with them. I have no worries about trusting my
car and my wallet to them. You really can't do any better in the south
Willamette Valley area than these folks. If you are traveling through
the area and need to know who to have AAA tow your car to, or you just
need some parts or service while passing through, this is the place. If
you live here and are looking for a mechanic for your VW, this is the
place for you, too.
Report Date: May 2005
|
|
Avis Auto Inc
2780 Eagle Valley Road
Yoncalla, Oregon 97499
541.849.2334
avisauto@centuryteldotnet
Owner: Jerry Avis
Just off I-5 approx 30 minutes south
of Cottage Grove, OR.
|
Repair all makes with tons of VW experience
Larry Chase (roadguy@roadhausdotcom) writes:
You won't find a shop owner more honest and interested in getting you
back on the road again. Jerry was able to put a series of realistic band
aides on a very tired roadhaus engine that allowed me to complete an amazing
3100 mile dash to Montreal, Canada where a new rebuilt engine was waiting.
He worked many more hours than were billed to help this stranded traveler.
Report Date: May 2004
|
Lehman's Auto
Rt. 100
Bechtelsville, Pennsylvania 18074
610.367.7045
|
VW, including extensive waterboxer knowledge
Ron Salmon (ron@busdepotdotcom) of The Bus Depot writes:
The proprietor, Tim Snyder, is quite possibly the best Volkswagen mechanic
I've ever known, and he knows wasserboxers very well. He is honest and,
while not cheap, is reasonably priced for the quality of work he does.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Gene’s Foreign Car Service and Parts
2538 West Chester Pike
Broomall, Pennsylvania 19008
610.356.4414
|
Foreign Car Service and Parts
Locke Johnston (lockejohnston@verizondotnet) writes:
This is my second choice if Wagenwerks is too busy. I’m quite loyal to
Howard, but Gene’s comes highly recommended by others and often you can
just call and bring your van in. There are always a lot of VW vans and
Vanagons being worked on as well as other model VW’s and Hondas. Fair
prices and friendly mechanics.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Wagner's VW
144 S. Fairlane
Grantville, Pennsylvania
17028
717.469.0123
Complicated to find; call for directions
Harrisburg Area
|
VW (AC and WC)
Karl Bloss (bloss@enterdotnet) writes:
Correctly diagnosed our ECU failure and set idle; they know what they're
doing.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Roth Auto
Service Center
100 Penn Street
Lansdale, Pennsylvania
215.368.2225
Lansdale (North of Philly)
|
Watercooled, & other makes, fuel injection
& electrical specialist
Ian Bergin (e@sbbs.se) writes:
George Roth has been great, done great work at a great price, I'd highly
recommend
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Oliver Enterprises
709 Herman Ave
Lemoyne, Pennsylvania
717.763.7354
Harrisburg/Central
|
VWs of any type; lots of Bus experience
Dave Eakin (dc-eakin@hotbotdotcom) writes:
Great experience With their bodywork (installed a Windshield for me and
they didn't do the painting!) Scott Oliver is often seen at local
VW shows.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Red Baron VW
1057 Columbus, Ave
Lemoyne, Pennsylvania
717.761.4149
Harrisburg/Central
|
VW (AC)
Dave Eakin (dc-eakin@hotbotdotcom) writes:
Recommended
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Denny's
Garage
8169 Anthony Hiway (Rt 997)
Quincy, Pennsylvania 17247
717.749.5546
Approx 2 hrs West of Harrisburg, central Pennsylvania just 20 miles
from I81 & I70 out side of Hagerstown, Maryland
|
Bob Allen (midatl.pc.e@myactvdotnet)
writes:
26 yrs in the same spot, excellent work, will work on Syncro's and conversions
incl Subie's, Reasonable prices and honest. Is also a TDI guru.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Bernhard's
Sales and Service
5530 Crackersport Road
Allentown, PA 18104
610.395.8433
bernhards.service@verizon.net
Crackersport Road & Tilghman St
(Next to Auto Addictions)
|
VW (mainly H2O), Audi, Volvo
Karl Bloss (bloss@enterdotnet) writes:
Somewhat pricey, but very knowledgeable including waterboxers
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Wagenwerks, Inc.
1002 E. Wisconsinllow Grove Ave
Wyndmoor, Pennsylvania 19038
215.836.2506
vwhoward@wagenwerksdotcom
www.wagenwerksdotcom
Philadelphia (suburban)
Owner: Howard Pitkow
|
VWs
The Owner (vwhoward@wagenwerksdotcom) writes:
My name is Howard Pitkow and I own and operate Wagenwerks, Inc. in Pennsylvania
. I have been repairing Volkswagens for over 25 years and recently have
had as many as 8 Vanagons at my shop in one day.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Locke Johnston (lockejohnston@verizondotnet)
writes:
Howard Pitkow is the owner, very personable, explains the work needed
and what was done well. Works on a lot of Volkswagens in the area, is
often hard to get a quick appointment but will fit you in if it’s an emergency.
I have had a good amount of stuff done as I’m not very mechanical and
have always thought that the work was done well for a very fair price.
I had some mechanical problems that I posted on the Vanagon Digest a while
back. I got some good answers to my questions, took the e mails to Howard
and he was able to reduce the diagnostic time spent on the van. It was
taken without any ego issues just as help.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Conti's Service
226 Warwick Ave
Cranston, Rhode Island 02905
401.781.5770
|
VW air & water cooled, MB, Porsche
Drew Jenkins (laj006@dma.isg.motdotcom) writes:
He is a full service shop for all models
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
|
Engines by Benz
Providence, Rhode Island
401.521.5217
Note ... Unlisted Phone Number
|
AC
Anonymous writes:
Thirty years in the same location with an UNLISTED tel number.
Don't believe they are keen on water cooled Vanagons, AC ones are Oklahoma
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Omar's Automotive
10 High Street
Wakefield, Rhode Island
401.789.5840
(southern Rhode Island) (its hard to miss, usually
5-10 busses out front in lot)
|
VW (especially Vanagons and Buses), plus
all foreign and domestic.
Zac Schwarzbach (zsch3885@uriacc.uridotedu) writes:
Recommended
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
M&D Imports
1198 White Horse Road.
Greenville, South Carolina
(1 Compliant)
|
Repair ... Imports
Steve Best (sebest@worldnet.attdotnet) writes:
Avoid this shop at all costs!
If you want more specific detail, please
email me.
Not Recommended
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
Teutonix Import Service
360 Spanish Wells Rd.
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina 29926
843.689.5431
|
Repair
Rick Sherrod (rick@teutonixdotcom) writes:
Works on all VWs, Vanagons no problem. In-house overhauls available.
Does dealer style work and restoration too. Norman Sherrod is the owner
& head mech. and he's a VW tech since the 70's. He's seen it all. A good
guy to have in your corner. Prices are good. HHI is a high rent region
to start with.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Mitchell Automotive Repair
Taylors, South Carolina
864.268.4555
Owner: Charlie Mitchell
|
Repair ... all VW's; water and air cooled
Michael "Buddah" Myers (buddahvw@hotmaildotcom) writes:
Charlie starred for years as the super-mechanic at Nick's VW in Greenville
- He now has his own shop. Charlie is the most ethical person I have ever
known and he has MAD SKILLS working on VW's. You will be very happy with
your "Charlie" experience. He even "puts-up" with a hippie like me!
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Import Service
3280 W Chicago St
Rapid City, South Dakota 57702
605.342.3003
800. 893.3003
ImportServiceLLC@aoldotcom
Owner… Rocky Stetler
|
VW / Import / Domestic
Larry Chase (roadguy@roadhausdotcom) writes:
Highly Recommended
Roadhaus blew a piston ... Rocky and Mike rebuilt the engine after piston
failure, installing new German OE Pistons, reverting the 2.2L Eurocars
engine back to a stock 2.1L. Great attention to detail and quality of
work. Fair prices and very honest. Total hours worked much more than hours
billed. Really cared about helping get me back on the road with as reliable
an engine as possible. Also, camped in front of the shop. Each night we
pushed the Van out of the service bay and plugged into Rockys electric.
Each morning we pushed her back in. Now that's service IMHO!
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Bavarian Auto
6150 Enterprise Park Drive
Chattanooga Tennessee 37416
423.499.8800
www.bavarian-autodotcom
|
Repair
Mark Cumnock (kayakwesty@yahoodotcom)
writes:
They are a Bosch factory service shop, they are pricey....but good
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Wurster's Foreign Car
Repair
1107 Harpeth Industrial Court
Franklin, Tennessee 37064
615.790.3180
|
Anonymous writes:
Family shop, familiar with Syncro Vanagons
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
D&G Foriegn Auto Parts
4106 Bristol Hwy
Johnson City, Tennessee 37618
800.568.9001
dgfap@charterdotnet
|
Parts
We specialize in new Parts for Air and
Water cooled VW's
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
|
Frayser Automotive
3911 Thomas Street
Memphis Tennessee
357.9752
|
VW
Bob Perring (perring@texasdotnet) writes:
Water cooled Vanagons, air cooled ones are Ok
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
SW/Signature Motors
2203 N. W. Broad Street
Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37129
888.428.5337 or 615.898.0700
(1 Compliant)
|
Type of Shop: VW Dealer
Will Work On: Rialta Repair & EV
George Hahn (geohahn@azstarnetdotcom) writes:
Honest, quick & competent. Got in immediately with no appointment.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
John P. Chihorek (johnchik1@cox.net)
writes:
Took my 2002 Rialta (Eurovan Chassis)in on 22 August 2005 for a rapping
noise when Driving between 20 - 60 mph. Also reported beginning of a miss
at idle. Dealer kept vehicle entire week for "Diagnostics" and couldn't
find anything accept an occasional miss after three test drives. Replaced
spark plugs ($260.00). When I picked up vehicle and drove 300 yards the
rapping noise was still present and I asked for a the mechanic to take
a 3 minute ride. He immediately id'd the problem as an A/C compressor
problem. Service Manager could not give me a date that the repair to the
A/C could be made. It depended on this and it depended on that, but it
would be a minimum of another 4-5 days.
Told the Service manager I was reporting my experience on this site
and he told me he would not repair my A/C if I reported my experience.
I left the facility with my vehicle.
Worst experience I've ever had with a VW Dealer.
Overall Shop
Rating: Avoid
Recommend: No
Report Date: Oct 2005
|
Pull-A-Part Nashville
7114 Centennial Blvd.
Nashville, Tennessee 37209
www.pullapartdotcom
|
Salvage Yard
George Jannini (georgejoann@junodotcom) writes:
Discount Do-It-Yourself Auto Salvage
Report Date: Mar 2005 |
V-WERKS
(Formerly Mountain VWs)
Sevierville, Tennessee
865.429.8009
Owner: Ermal Washam
25 minutes from Knoxville
|
Parts and Service
George Jannini (georgejoann@junodotcom) writes:
Restorations
Common Service Items
Parts & Accessories
Tube Frame Fabrication
Sheet Metal Fabrication
Stock & Custom engines
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Sterling VW
Abilene, Texas
Abilene is located in north central TX.
|
VW Dealer ... Repair & Parts
Jack Estes (jackestes@hotmaildotcom) writes
This is a small VW dealership thas was originally started by a VW repair
person, Sterling Robinson. He is still there and the sole owner. They
made their name on repairing VWs and that's still their long suit. They
have a 1993 Eurovan GL as their delivery vehicle and Sterling's personal
vehicle is a 2001 Eurovan GL. He will work on any VW including the Winnebagos.
They used to completely tear down and rebuild the Vanagon Westfalia campers.
They never sold new EVCs but do work on them. They have a late model Rialta
for sale on their lot now. Highly respected. I've bought two new VWs from
Sterling. He's offered to work on my 1995 EVC. If you have a VW, he can
fix it.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
|
Austin
Vee Dub
Austin, Texas
|
Repair
Curt Wilson (signboyslim@yahoodotcom)
writes:
Had great experience with Austin Vee Dub while in Texas
Report Date: Mar 2005
Jack Estes (jackestes@hotmaildotcom)
writes
This is one of those classic grimy, old, VW repair lots. Amazingly, they
have a very good reputation. I've been there once myself and a friend
swears by them. This is the type of place that won't work on your car
unless you're a regular. Now how does a new person become a regular? They
have lots of old, broken VWs of various types rusting away outside.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Charles Maund VW
Austin, Texas
|
VW Dealer ... EuroVan Repair & Parts
Jack Estes (jackestes@hotmaildotcom) writes
They have two smallish dealerships, north & south.
They didn't sell many Eurovans and hated the camper versions. They were
glad when the Eurovans were discontinued. Not a good reputation but they
are the only VW dealership in the Austin city limits, They loose a lot
of business to Hewlitt.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Crabtree VW Repair
13290 Pond Springs Rd
Austin, Texas
512.258.2730
|
Complete VW Repair
Bill (wpars@kdidotcom) writes:
Same location since late 1979. Working on vws since early 1970s
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Revolution Motors
Austin, Texas
|
Repair
Jack Estes (jackestes@hotmaildotcom) writes
They are an independent repair shop for VW, Audi, Porsche, perhaps others.
They are an authorized VW warranty repair facaility and work on Eurovans
and even some of the Winnebago parts. Highly respected in Austin. This
is the place to take your VW no matter what kind it is. Long established.
On Saturdays, they only take in cars from people outside of Austin.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Tim's German Auto
2632 White Settlement Road
Ft. Worth, Texas 76107
800.257.8527
|
Matthew G Callah (mcallahan4@junodotcom)
writes:
A very good shop in Texas. They are the only one I will let work on my
'89
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Hewlitt VW
Georgetown, Texas
about 20 miles north of Austin
|
VW Dealer ... EuroVan Repair & Parts
Jack Estes (jackestes@hotmaildotcom) writes
They will work on any VW part of a Eurovan and they generally always have
one or two Eurovans for sale on their used car lot. They sold a bunch
of Weekenders. They don't work on any of the Winnebago parts but did try
their best to find someone who did. Very nice, new, modern, large dealership
with large repair facility. Good reputation. I would trust them with everything.
Wish they worked on the Winnebago parts also.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Auto house
3402 San Jacinto at Francis
Houston, Texas 77004
713.523.2363
(corner of San Jac and Francis), Take Fannin south from downtown;
left at Francis; shop is right corner at next intersection.
|
European cars
Anonymous writes:
Excellent work and not as expensive as the dealers.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Joachim Beek (beekj@ghgdotnet) writes:
Run by a Swiss and a German. European cars exclusively. Knowledgeable,
conscientious, and honest. Excellent work, rates are about
$45=50/hr. About the only shop I trust anymore
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Kevork Automotive
7818 Hammerly
Houston, Texas
713.686.3200
|
VW
Bob Perring (perring@texasdotnet) writes:
Great service and workmanship
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
B & B Classics
1621 FM 2004
Richwood, Texas 77531
979.265.7171.
Owner: Don Alexander
|
Repair
Hoss (drhosack@yahoodotcom) writes:
Don Alexander is the owner and chief mechanic at his small establishment.
He is well versed in both air and water cooled VW's. Is currently doing
his own Subaru conversion and fabricated his own adapter plate and rear
engine mount. His specialty in this part of the world is of course air
conditioning and has help me retro fit an A/C system in my 1991 Vanagon.
He also does engine upgrades and conversions and sand/mud rails for the
local drag strip. He is very easy to work with and does dependable, trustworthy
service. 45 to 50 dollars an hour ....... most work can be negotiated.
Report Date: Jun 2005
|
Kaferhaus
Seabrook, Texas
281.474.2553
|
Anonymous writes:
Located near the corner of Hwy 146 and Nasa Road 1 in Seabrook. Very good
work at a fair (much better than dealer) price. Have been doing VW since
early 70's.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Poor Richard's
Euro-Service Ltd.
Texohoma, Texas
903.523.4245
North of Whitesboro on Hwy 377 between Sherman and Gainesville, on Lake
North Texas
|
Euro cars, mopeds, motorcycles, boats,
repair and restoration
David Shumpert (juju34@texomadotnet) writes:
Full repair, body and machine shop
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Concourse Auto Werks
4337 South 300 West
Murray, Utah 84107
801.313.9106
Just south Salt Lake City
|
Diana Page (pianopage@hotmaildotcom)
writes:
Walter's Workshop in Salt Lake City is out of business. His two head
mechanics, Kevin and Bob opened their own shop over a year ago after Walter
sold out. They have solved many problems for me and are willing to give
advice over the phone.
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
Vee
Dub Service
880 West 2100 South
Ogden, Utah 84401
801.392.0212
Northern Utah
|
VW Repair & Parts
Scott McDonell (rancidx420@yahoodotcom) writes:
Ed Rogers' daily ride is a Syncro, and he knows Vanagons very well.
Best shop in Utah.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Bob Stevens (mtbiker62@hotmaildotcom)
writes:
Very honest, reliable, experienced, knowledgeable,
capable and accommodating. I know several others who have used them for
many
more years than I and all have had good experiences with them. Ed Rogers
of
Vee Dub is the best TIICO installer in Utah. He has done his own now and
is
always looking for new information and techniques to improve this conversion.
Report Date: Jan 2004
Diana Page (pianopage@hotmaildotcom)
writes:
A good warehouse of used parts if someone
is in need.
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
Bugs-N-Bunnies Inc
2755 East 33rd South
Salt Lake City, Utah 84109
801.485.2421
|
VW-air and water
Chris Braymen (bonehead3b@yahoodotcom) writes:
They've done a great job for me on my watercooled Vanagon.
Always a lot of busses being worked on there.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Contract Auto Repair
4004 S West Temple
Salt Lake City, Utah 84107
801.266.1214
rdowdle@networlddotcom
Salt Lake City Area
Owner: Ron Dowdle
(1 Compliant)
|
VW, Audi, and WC
Charles Kondo (ckyk@uswestdotnet) writes:
I have a 1991 Westfalia that has required standard repair/replace (e.g.,
head gaskets, brakes) and custom work (e.g., hooking up a 2nd
battery, custom S&S header kit). Contract Auto Repair has done an excellent
job on all projects and at very reasonable prices. I recommend them very
highly.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Owner Ron Dowdle (rdowdle@networlddotcom)
writes:
Have worked on VW cars for 35 years. A small family owned and run shop
that is knowledgeable and friendly.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Bob Stevens (mtbiker62@hotmaildotcom)
writes:
I brought in a Van that would crank over a few times then slow down then
die. Contract Auto "evaluated" the problem as a dying battery as it "only
shows 12.3 volts". They put in a new battery. A week later the same symptom
appeared again so I took the van back. Upon further assessment and evaluation
it was a broken/shattered bell housing and the starter was binding on
start. They put a used b-housing in and that was $725.00 + the $107.00
for the battery + towing of $150.00. On my way home from retrieving the
van I noticed that the cruise control did not work. Long story short here:
Ron Dowdle accused me of lying to him about the cruise working in the
first place. He called me a week later and said he would provide the magnets
(factory recall fix for cruise) and "even install them free". We made
an appointment for 1:30 on a Friday. I showed up at 1:15 and waited until
3:00. He never showed, never called, never anything.
Very bad business and not one I will
recommend for anything. Poor diagnostic skills, poor business practices,
very poor human relations.
Not Recommended
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
Millcreek Garage
4384 South 900 East
Salt Lake City, Utah
801.262.7077
|
VW only-air and water
Anonymous writes:
Very Capable German Mechanic, Claus, tons of Air-Cooled work, and great
and pinpointing problems on my Wasserboxer Vanagon
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Bob Stevens (mtbiker62@hotmaildotcom)
writes:
Very honest, reliable, experienced, knowledgeable,
capable and accommodating. I know several others who have used them for
many more years than I and all have had good experiences with them.
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
Top Dead Center
2906 South State Street
Salt Lake City, Utah 84115
801.463.1.4.3.2
get it?
|
VW & Porsche
Patrick Mauck (pkmauck@shadowlink.ne) writes:
They are VW enthusiasts just like you! Shaun's orange bus is always
parked right by the shop (I think he lives in it?!)
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Bob Stevens (mtbiker62@hotmaildotcom)
writes:
... no longer do VW work. They are almost
exclusively a Porsche/Audi
high-end shop. I was there 2 weeks ago and talked to them face to face
about
evaluating my TIICO and that's when I discovered that info. They are
definitely out of the Vanagon business. Unfortunately for us, TDI are
very nice, easy to work with, very straight-forward, candid and honest
folks. We lost one there.
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
Utah Imports
VW & Audi Repair since 1959
858 South State St.
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
801-533-9600
www.utahimportsdotcom
|
Repair ... Imports
Bob Stevens (mtbiker62@hotmaildotcom) writes:
Allan Anderson is the main guy, and his "other" there is Jeff. Good folks,
busy, very knowledgeable and reliable and why I didn't find them sooner
is a mystery to me. Although on the main street here in Salt Lake, hard
to find/see as they are set back in the middle of the block. You have
to be directly in front of the drive to see the sign about 70' back of
the sidewalk, and there are buildings out on the street which further
block the view.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
|
Foreign Auto Parts
and Service
257 West St. George Boulevard
St. George, Utah
435.674.1271
www.fapsstgeorge.com
rosie@fapsstgeorge.com
|
Repair & Parts
Jerome Grenon (dje1eratyahoodotca)
writes:
ALTERNATOR PROBLEM ST-GEORGE UTAH
Big thanks to all people who helped me with my post.
Well I stayed in St-Georges Saturday pm to Monday am and waited for this
garage to open.
The guy Ozzie did a very good job. He changed my alternator. He worked
on the alternator early in the morning. Then at 10:00 am we were on the
road again to death valley California. A brand new alternator (75 A instead
of 65 with the broken alternator) cost to me 220$
The guy only works on VW and imported vehicle and know very well his job.
I STRONGLY recommend this garage if you
have any trouble in this area.
Report Date: Apr 2006
|
John's VW
North Champlain Street
Burlington, Vermont
802.862.7427
|
Air-cooled VWs only
Jeff Bourdeau (JEFFBatdec.anrdotstate.vt.us) writes:
Great place to get aircooled VWs repaired.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Craigs VW Repair
16 Prim RD
Colchester Vermont 05446
802.951.5977
|
VWs
Kevin (cttaper@aoldotcom) writes:
Craig's been in the VW world for 30yrs and drives older t2 aircooled but
is great with wbx as well. He is very honest and reasonable. No engine
rebuilds but will do R&R's at the shop. Only bad part is he does not take
Credit cards. Only cash or check. Has lots of used parts in stock.
I will help out if I can I live 4 miles up the street. Call me at 802.863.9116
Report Date: Nov 2003
Jamie Balliett (balliett@comcastdotnet)
writes:
Craig worked on my 88 westy for a spectrum of things. He's very honest,
fair, and a true problem solver. He even talked to me twice on a road
trip when I was having power issues. Craig is the salt of the earth in
terms of a mechanic. One sad note was that we moved to Colorado and leaving
him behind was a bummer! Call him, listen to him, and let him know how
his work made YOUR life better!
Report Date: Apr 2005
|
Northern Motorsport
Route 5
Wisconsinlder, Vermont 05088
802.296.2099
about 10 miles or so from the intersection of Interstates 89 and 91
Vermont/New Hampshire border
|
Variety of European cars
Bruce Wood (Bruce.B.Wood@lyme.valleydotnet) writes:
They have a Vanagon specialist/owner on the staff. Although we haven't
had any major work done -- yet -- we've been quite happy with their service
and understanding of these unique vehicles.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Wagonwork Corporation
3406 Jefferson Davis Hwy
Alexandria, Virginia
703.684.2985
Northern Virginia (Alexandria Area)
|
Body work for VW Audi, Porsche, BMW
Joselito Q. Tongson (tongsli@erolsdotcom) writes:
Excellent, top-notch body repair and painting. Quality control
is 1st rate! Authorized GEICO repair shop. Customer Service is excellent.
Quite a reputation in the DC area.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Corner Garage
144 Old Stage Coach
RD #F
Dumfrieds, Virginia 22026-2298
703.441.1759
Northern Virginia (Dumfries)
|
Former VW dealer mechanics
Russell Gunter (rogunter@aoldotcom) writes:
Bob Burgess is the man to see. He has worked on 3 of mine over the
years and is great. They are honest and know VWs.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Mid-Atlantic
VW Parts & Restoration
6105 County Dr
Disputanta, Virginia 23842
804.732.7327
2 1/2mi. east of 295 on US 460
Richmond area
|
VW AC only
Wayne Marek (volkswayne@yahoodotcom) writes:
Everything from minor service to a complete resto. Wholesale distributors
for new and reproduction parts, not to mention our large stock of good
used parts.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
VolksWerks
Jefferson St
Falls Church, Virginia
703.237.5266
Rt 66 exit 69, rt @ light, rt @ Jefferson St., pass body shop, driveway
on rt, rt @ end of building, 3rd shop on rt.
Owner: Ted
(1 Compliant)
|
Air and Watercooled VWs and Audis.
All years and models
Dave Rodriguez (DRodrig420@aoldotcom) writes:
Very good work at an unbeatable price. Labor rate is only $35/hr.
Very honest, parts for A1 and A2, aircooled.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Matt Smith writes:
Shop Labor per hour is not $35 it's $95. Price kept going up and up, they
do good work but you pay a premium for it.
Overall Shop Rating:
Average
Recommend: No
Report Date: May 2006
|
CJ BUGGS
Import Repair Service, Inc.
1537 Jefferson Highway ( Rt. 250)
Fisherville, Virginia 22939
540.942.4995
|
Imports
Dave Mari (vw4x41987@yahoodotcom) writes:
This shop is near the Shenandoah Valley area of Virginia and was a vacation
saver for me when I broke down on the sky line drive. The local VW dealer
would not even look at van before 2 weeks! They pointed me to CJs were
he repaired my Van the very next day. They moved me to front of the line
to save my family vacation. They even re-opened at 9PM to meet me and
provide me us with a 1 hour tour of his shop and on site part warehouse.
These guys had 12 Buses, 8 Vanagons, tons of Bugs and a few Things on
site. He charged me $151 for: trouble shooting, replacement of a used
BOSH coil, 1 vacuum hose, belts adjustment, and top off all fluids. This
shop is worth just going to see!
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
D & M Automotive
Gloucester Point, Virginia
804.642.1660
Just across the York River north of Yorktown, Virginia on Rt 17 in a town
called Gloucester Point
|
General Mechanic
Mark Schrope (mschrope@vimsdotedu)writes:
They do not specialize in VWs or Vanagons, but they have done excellent
work on my 89 Vanagon. They're very willing to figure out what needs
to be done and prices charged are very reasonable.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Ferish Automotive
New Baltimore, Virginia
45 min from DC
|
VW & Volvo
Anonymous writes:
Dan is an incredible mechanic, he used to work on NEW VWs back in
the day. He is also a VW instructor. This man knows his stuff.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Coastal Imports
422 W 21st St
Norfolk, Virginia 23517
757.627.4630
www.coastalimportdotcom
|
Repair Shop
Ian Janes (tidewatertype2@yahoodotcom)
writes:
The owner has a Vanagon westy with a Tii motor in it!! Best place for
H2O work. And they do air cooled also.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
|
Bug Haus
Richmond, Virginia
804.232.8989
|
VW-all types
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
The Volks Home
3308 W Clay St
Richmond, Virginia
804.358.3509
near Broad & I-195, north
of the Channel 6 tower
|
All VW
Dan Resler (dresler@vcudotedu) writes:
Recommended
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Rule Honda & Volkswagon
314 Lee-Jackson Highway (Highway 11)
Staunton, Virginia 24401
800.277.0598
540.886.2357
www.rulevwdotcom/en_US/
Take exit 220 off of I-81
|
Eurovan and Vanagon
Harold Teer (teerhb@jmudotedu) writes:
Since this is a dealer, their prices are generally higher than independent
shops. However, Phillip, the VW mechanic who knows Vanagons is excellent!
He is honest and will not do any work that is not needed. Everyone in
the area that brings their Van to Rule only allows Phillip to work on
their van. I have used him for 6 years and highly recommend his work.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Salem Import Service, Inc.
1113 Florida St
Salem, Virginia 24153
540.389.8587
Owner: Mark Dearing
(1 Compliant)
|
VWs & Imports
James Garrison (jhg1600@hotmaildotcom) writes:
Mark Dearing is the owner of this shop. He is incredibly knowledgeable
and
is a hell of a nice guy. He is one of the few guys I have ever met who
has
been working on VWs forever, but isn't jaded against the vehicles or their
owners. They handle all types of Volkswagens, but busses especially.
Report Date: Nov 2003
Barry (VWWestie71@aoldotcom) writes:
Run by Mark Dearing, who has been working on buses of all types since
the
1960's. He rebuilt my trusty 1600 for my 71 Westy, and it runs like a
champ,
with 10K on it since the rebuild.
Report Date: Mar 2005
Harold Teer (teerhb@jmudotedu) writes:
While Mark is a very likeable guy, the
work performed was substandard. I called ahead of time and scheduled work
to be performed (tune-up, minor maintenance) and was assured they had
all the required parts. To make certain there was no misunderstanding,
I brought a typed up list of work to be performed.
After paying for work, I was informed they did not have a new distributor
cap and I should find one and change it myself. After driving home (2
hour drive), I found out they did not do all the maintenance work requested--was
not charged for changing power steering fluid, but I had requested that
they change it. They charged me for a new distributor rotor, when in fact
the rotor was not changed. Wondering if they actually changed the standard
transmission fluid, I called and asked what type and weight gear oil they
used. I was told Mobil 1 synthetic in a particular weight. Mobil does
not make synthetic gear oil in that weight. So, I am still left wondering.
Recommend: No
Report Date: May 2005
|
The Bug House
5024 Southern Blvd
Virginia Beach Virginia 23462
757.497.8080
www.thebughousedotcom
|
Repair Shop, Parts Store ,Air and Water
Cooled, Busses, Vanagons
Ian Janes (tidewatertype2@yahoodotcom) writes:
No Comments
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Virginia Beach Auto Haus
376 N Witchduck Road
Virginia Beach Virginia 23462
757.552.6589
Fax: 757-552-6587
Email: vaautohaus@verizon.net
Owners Name: Lester and Sam
|
Volkswagen repair, Volkswagen and Audi
Kris writes:
If you have a Volkswagen and have a hard to figure out problem, this place
will not only figure it out, but won't charge an arm and a leg to repair
it. I highly recommend you check them out if you want great work at a
good price. By the way, Diagnosis is only $35.00.....not $70-$90 like
everyone else in the area.
Overall Shop Rating: Excellent
Recommend: Yes
Report Date: May 2006
|
Virginia Beach VW
4880 Haygood Rd
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23455
757.499.4040
|
VWs
Scott Johnson (beauxart@junodotcom) writes:
I have had excellent service, advice, and support from VBVW for 5 years.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Whiteheads VW
1275 Oceana Blvd
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23454
757.425.1999
|
Repair Shop, Parts Store ,Air and Water
Cooled,Busses, Vanagons, Syncros
Ian Janes (tidewatertype2@yahoodotcom) writes:
They know their stuff!
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Ace German Auto
Highams Ct
Woodbridge, Virginia 22191
703.490.5172
Rt. 1 South to Dawson Beach Rd, straight back to the end on the right,
make 1st left
|
VW, Porsche, everything
Kim Brenneman (splitty4me@yahoodotcom) writes:
See for yourself! Making the trip here is worth your
time.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
K.A.B. Motors-House
of Imports
17 S.E. 4th Ave
Battle Ground, Washington 98604
360.687.5253
|
Repair ... Imports
Co-Owner Steve (stevesyncro@yahoodotcom)
writes:
I run an import repair business with my dad in Battle Ground. We'd be
happy to help out however we can. Or just stop by if you'd like to visit
with a fellow listee.
-Steve ... 90 syncro Westy turbo
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
Harmony Motorworks
Bellingham, Washington
mbender@carmadillodotcom
Owner: Mark Bender
|
VW, Syncro & Imports
Larry Chase writes:
Full service shop with a great customer service attitude. Owner Mark is
a Syncro Enthusiast.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
The Wagon Shop
11635 NE 8th
Bellevue Washington 98005
425.454.1141
Exit eastbound NE 8th off I-405,
next to Arco
|
All major/minor VW repairs
|
Helmut's German Auto Repair
2122 Sixth St.
Bremerton, Washington 98312
360.373.4330
|
German Vehicles
Glenn L. Flock (g2f@g2f2000dotcom) writes:
The owner is Tom and he runs the shop with his family. They are exceptional
technicians originally from Viet Nam. I know where of I speak since I
used to own an automotive diagnostic equipment franchise (Allen Test Products)
and not totally unfamiliar with concepts like B.M.E.P, etc., in Otto cycle
engines.
They have worked on our two business vans ('84 Vanagons), did the conversion
on our '87 Westy, and we even let them work on our very pristine '87 XJ6
Jaguar. Above all, their prices are very reasonable. They will not cheat
you.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
AA Transaxle
29924
NE 173rd St.
Duvall, Washington. 98019
425.788.4070
877.377.0773
www.aatransaxledotcom
aatransaxle@direcwaydotcom
(Seattle area)
Owner: Daryl Christensen
|
VW Transmissions
Larry Chase (roadguy@roadhausdotcom) writes:
Simply put ... the first place to consider for any Transmission / Transaxle
work.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Don's Volkswagen Garage
821 Washington Ave.
Huntington, Washington
304.529.2890
|
VWs
Ray Nimmo (mrnimmo@yahoodotcom) writes:
Specializes in older VWs, especially air-cooled but they have a substantial
number of waterdrippers as well. I first began using their services about
12 years ago. The sole-proprietor Glenn is HONEST, HONEST, HONEST!!! Prices
are quite reasonable as well.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Averre's
Longview, Washington
360.425.1119
|
Parts
Jeremy Norris (psychfellow@hotmaildotcom) writes:
Recommended
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Autovice Service
2200-196th St. SW
Lynwood Washington
425.672.4366
North Seattle
Owner is Doug
|
Daryl Christensen (aatransaxle@msndotcom)
writes:
Good quality shop.
Report Date: Dec 2003
|
Schaffner Motors Inc.
21705 Highway 99
Lynnwood, Washington 98036
425.778.6900
schafner@gtedotnet
www.biznw.com/schaffner
Exit 179 off I-5, W 1/2 mile to
Hwy 99, rt 200 yds on the rt.
Owner: Rudi Schaffner
(1 Compliant)
|
Repair, Parts & Sales
VW only, new & used parts, car sales,
beetle, bus & T3 resto
Owner Rudi Schaffner (schafner@gtedotnet)
writes:
We specialize on VW only since 1972, Rudi Schaffner is with VW in
Germany since 1959
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
M.J. Iverson writes:
In my thirty-five years of VW ownership, I consider the service provided
by Rudi Schaffner / Schaffner Motors to be the best. I can recommend with
full confidence their expert mechanical work and meticulous restoration,
as well as their exceptional customer service.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Nina French (little_ball_of_hate@hotmaildotcom)
writes:
I would NOT recommend Rudi Schaffner for work on a new Beetle. Initially,
when I thought I had a clutch problem I called around to see who would
give me the best deal. Rudi's quote was the lowest, however, upon
having the car apart, he found the flywheel could not be used. Since the
car was apart he decided to jack up the price to greater then what I would
pay at a dealership to replace the clutch and flywheel. Call around and
get quotes, then call Chris Delong from Fine Tuning. He'll beat your lowest
quote and CERTAINLY won't charge more then a dealership, unlike Schaffner.
Recommend: No
Report Date: May 2005
Loren Busch (labusch@verizon.net) writes:
I can recommend Schaffner Motors in Lynnwood
without reservation. Rudi did an engine replacement in my '85 Westy
and I was very pleased with the results. He did the job within the
estimate and on time, actually a day faster than he had promised.
When two items came up that might require additional money he insisted
I come in to look at the problem before making a decision whether
to spend more money. The engine (a rebuild from NW connecting rod)
ran perfect for the rest of the time I had the Westy (until I rolled
it and totaled the vehicle). They also have a large supply of vintage
parts and do full restorations on vintage Bugs and Buses.
Report Date: Nov 2005
|
DEDA Auto Repair
550 S.E. Benewah
Pullman Washington
509.334.3309
|
Repair
Matthew Pollard (poll7356@uidahodotedu)
writes:
Trained in The Fatherland, good German
accent, knows Vanagons and the higher tech vehicles. He drives a Vanagon
and is making his own i5 conversion.
Report Date: Nov 2003
Matthew Pollard (mpteleski@yahoodotcom)
writes:
Still strong and very good.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
German Engine Service
621 State Avenue
Olympia, Washington 98501
360.956.3897
psyborg@olywadotnet
Owner: Bill Bourg
|
Lonecia Coffman (lybis@my-Dejadotcom)
writes:
The owner, Bill Bourg, has been enjoying and working on VWs for over twenty
years and he still has customers from when he started out working in his
garage. As a matter of fact, my VW and I patronized his shop prior to
my going to work for him.
We do full service repairs on all VWs and other German vehicles.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Deon Reynolds (d@deonreynoldsdotcom)
writes:
Bill Bourg and his crew have my vote of confidence. I drive 109 miles
(each way) to have them work on my Syncro Vanagon (they also installed
a tiico 2.0 Feb. 2003). Since using Bill's shop the reliability of my
Vanagon has improved greatly! (foremost to me, as I drive in very remote
locations) Their love of VW's (especially Vanagon's) shows in the quality
of work and attention to detail. If it was not for German Engine Service
I would have dumped my Vanagon years ago.
Report Date: Jun 2005
|
Northwest Foreign Car
6725 Martin Way
Olympia, Washington 98516
360.491.3352
|
Repair
Barry (VWWestie71@aoldotcom) writes:
Extremely knowledgeable on all VDubs, but especially buses and Vanagons.
He has pulled a number of us through more than once!
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Doktor
Tim's Spezialwerkstatt
San Juan Island, Washington
360.378.6258
On San Juan Island in the middle of Puget Sound, about a hundred miles
NW of Seattle.
Seattle/Puget Sound Area
|
Repair ... All European, lots of VW both
air and water cooled.
The owner writes:
Bought my first Deutsches auto out of college in 71. Been wrenchin' 'em
ever since.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
BugAid
14045 Midvale Ave. North
Seattle, Washington 98133
206.365.1494
bugaid@rainerdotnet
|
Saytay (saytay@EARTHLINKdotnet) writes:
Brad really knows what he is doing, but sometimes gets backed up.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Doug's VW Service
6058 35th SW
Seattle, Washington 98126
206.937.5262
|
All, only seen AC there
Tom Howze (thowze@u.washingtondotedu) writes:
Although a busy shop, Doug is a patient, thorough mechanic; the best I've
found in Seattle.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Fine Tuning
9601 Midvale Ave N
Seattle, Washington 98103
206.522.5503
customersupport@finetuningperformance
www.finetuningperformancedotcom
Owner: Chris DeLong
|
Repair ... Anthing
German Repair
The Owner Writes:
We are THE German Automotive Tuning Solution for the greater Seattle Area
and beyond. We offer only the finest in not only OEM, but aftermarket
tuning parts for your early AND late model Volkswagen, Audi, BMW, Porsche,
and Mercedes Benz.
We here at Fine Tuning provide a wide range of auto services with precision
and accuracy, just as it was intended with your German manufactured vehicle.
All our service technicians are German Auto Enthusiasts themselves, and
have over 40 years of combined experience in the art of FINE TUNING .
Report Date: Dec 2003
|
Louis Foreign Auto
7301 Roosevelt Way NE
Seattle, Washington 98115
206.524.3366
louisvwaudi@hotmaildotcom
|
Scott Semyan (scottse@microsoftdotcom)
writes:
Recommended
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Eric Saylor (esaylor@sprynetdotcom) writes:
It was nice to see my favorite shop recommended
Report Date: Mar 2004
|
Northwest
Connecting Rod
1705 S. 93rd St. Unit F-7
Seattle, Washington 98108
206.763.2487
|
VW engines of all kinds (machine shop)
Anonymous writes:
They do most of the rebuilds and machine work for all the dealers and
most of the shops all around the Puget Sound area. They are
a one stop shop for this type of work and Jerry stands by his work.
He knows VWs inside and out.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Porbug
820 So. Charleston St.
Seattle, Washington
206.621.0833
|
VWs
Daryl Christensen (aatransaxle@msndotcom)
writes:
Owner is George and he is a very straight
shooter. Nice guy and cares about quality and has lots of years of experience.
Report Date: Dec 2003
|
Specialty Motors
12510 - 15th Avenue NE
Seattle, Washington 98125
206.367.4403
Owner: Dean
Head Mechanic is Chris (owns a Syncro
himself)
|
Perry Wales (perrywales@yahoodotcom)
writes:
After nearly 20 years of VW ownership (I owned a '73 Westy for 15 years
) and going to almost every shop in the Seattle region, including some
on your Seattle list, I finally found one great mechanic.
They are honest, will let you know if something REALLY needs to be replaced
or if it can wait, and the consequences if you do. The work is always
top notch and on the odd occasion something goes wrong right away they
will step right up and fix it free of charge. They even paid for my towing
once when an accelerator cable died right after a repair.
I can't speak highly enough of them. When friends of mine who also own
a Syncro Westy had had enough of mechanics in the local area, they finally
took my advise and went to Specialty Motors, they haven't stopped raving.
They even felt comfortable enough to eventually have Specialty do a Tiico
transplant since they have done quite a few.
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
Small Car Performance
4720 South Tacoma Way
Tacoma WA 98409
253.473.2474
www.smallcar.com
brian@smallcar.com
Owner: Brian Steel
(1 Complaint)
|
VW, Porsche, Audi, and Subaru
Conversion, Repair Shop .. Subie Install
specialist
Vince Crain (Syncrmon@yahoodotcom) writes:
Very expensive (way above quote)! Poor quality work! I had a 2.0 conversion
done on my Syncro, it left their shop with coolant leaks, (they omitted
the overflow tank!) 1/2 throttle (due to cable clip installed in wrong
place), dangling cable also rubbing on CV, a rats nest of wiring zip tied
together and plopped on top of motor, several snipped wires left exposed,
Total lack of concern for your vehicle, greasy handprints all over van
and upholstery. No response to emails informing them of my dissatisfaction.
Recommend: No
Report Date: Mar 2005
Response from Shop Owner Brian Steel
"Mr. Crain was quoted by email a maximum
labor of $2250.00 and was charged $2175.00 to install a used 2.0L inline
engine that he purchased from a third party. The engine was installed
as it was in the donor van for under the quoted price which seemed to
be the important factor. No emails were received and no opportunity was
given for any adjustments or tidying up of any work."
David Cusenza (d11@wavecabledotcom) writes:
I have a 1987 Vanagon Westfalia that needed a new engine back in 1992.
Brian recommended we put in a Subaru 2.5 in because it would be a great
improvement over the original 2.1 VW engine. Boy was he right. The engine
has worked flawlessly for 60,000 so far. I nearly doubled my horsepower
and about a 15% improvement in gas mileage. It drives better than when
it was new and has made the Vanagon the car it always should of been.
Brian's service has always been impeccable and he stands by his work and
his word. I know Brian has done many additional Vanagon to Subaru conversions
since he did mine and if I had to do it again I wouldn't hesitate to go
to him. I tell everyone I meet who owns a Vanagon to drop a Subaru engine
in next time they need there engine replaced. And Brian is the guy to
go to.
Overall Shop Rating: Excellent
Recommend: Yes
Report Date: Feb 2006
Ann Hungar writes:
For an experience that you just don't get often enough in this day and
age, go to Small Car Performance in Tacoma WA. Brian has owned the business
for 30 years and you just get better customer service in a small business
where you can still see the owner behind the counter, and know that he
is available for questions or concerns. Many of the staff have been there
for years, and besides being knowledgeable are willing to get to the bottom
of any problem even if it isn't simple. So may shops today just look at
their computer for the answers and lack the interest to really find the
best solution for the individual. Thanks!
Overall Shop Rating: Excellent
Recommend: Yes
Report Date: Feb 2006
|
Too Quicks German Auto
616 112th St, E
Tacoma, Washington 98445
253.537.3546.
Owner: Chuck Johnson
|
German, Air Cooled, Water cooled.
T. Tacker (ttackman@yahoodotcom) writes:
Downright honest,& Willingly helpful. Have needed his assistance on
many occasions.
Report Date: Nov 2003
Hobart Denny (hdenny@worldnet.attdotnet) writes:
I have had very good experience With these people including the installation
of a TIICO engine.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
|
Reborn Auto
St Johns Ave
Vancouver, Washington
|
German , Water Cooled
Nanette Allen (nanetteallen@sbcglobaldotnet) writes:
They have taken care of my '85 Riviera for years, and I've found
them to be completely honest and their work superior. Not the cheapest
in town, unless you count the fact that they're not going to do a lot
of experimenting while charging you for same.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Unlimited Vdub
11408 A NE Rosewood Ave
Vancouver, Washington
360.256.3560
behind Seafirst Bank on right, 4th Plain and SR500
(1 Compliant)
|
VWs and European
Anonymous writes:
Larry has always done an excellent job in repairing my bugs AND! explaining
to me exactly what work needs to be done.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Jeremy Norris (psychfellow@hotmaildotcom)
writes:
Probably best overall repair shop in Vancouver Washington. Larry and Mike
are the main guys
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Nanette Allen (nanetteallen@sbcglobaldotnet)
writes:
I used them a few times years ago on my old air-cooled, they messed it
up and charged me a fortune for doing so.
Recommend: No
Report Date: Nov 2003
Terry Weiner (terryter@yahoodotcom) writes:
As a newbie '95 EVC owner, I had a timing chain/water pump replacement,
and was quite pleased with the work and reasonable price from this shop.
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
The VW Guys
9118 222nd
Street S.E.
Woodinville,
Washington 98072
425.415.1419 or 425.486.8117
thevwguys@mindspringdotcom
www.thevwguysdotcom
Owner: Hans Hugel
CLOSED
|
Resto, service, AC
The owner Hans Hugel (thevwguys@mindspringdotcom) writes:
Clean, Honest, over 30 years of VW and Chevrolet service. We can build
that dream for you.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Scott Keesling (gr8scotatattdotnet)
writes;
You might delete the following shop from your list - the phone numbers
don't work and it's probable that they've moved or are out of biz?
Report Date: Oct 2005
|
Don's VW Garage
821 Washington Ave
Huntington, West Virginia
304.529.2890
mrnimmo@yahoodotcom
Owner: Ray
|
AC & WC
the owner Ray (mrnimmo@yahoodotcom) writes:
Don't stock a large amount of parts. Have access to a graveyard
in Coal Grove, Ohio.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Car City VW, Audi, and Honda (dealer)
North Hwy 53
Eau Claire, Wisconsin
715.723.9141
|
VW, Audi, and Honda
Anonymous writes:
Have a couple of good VW mechanics. Honest but not cheap, it's a dealer!
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Anastos Motors
Highway 31
Kenosha, Wisconsin
Owners: Pete and Tim Anastos
|
Foreign
Anonymous writes:
Pete and Tim Anastos are both graduate engineers who sell, repair and
race
(SCCA ). They Will fix your car at a fair price in a reasonable time.
Good guys to deal With.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Percy's Service Station
3600 Monroe St
Madison, Wisconsin
608.231.3304
Conveniently located on the south side of Madison, Wisconsin, just a few
miles from the downtown/Capitol area, and just a couple miles off the
south beltline (HWYs 12/18).
|
Imports & VWs
Jeffrey Earl (jefferrata@yahoodotcom) writes:
Now owned and operated by the mechanic whom I believe was previously Percy's
assistant, Jerry, a VW-trained wrencher of many years. There are often
several Westies and other VWs crammed into his small lot, but turnaround
is usually reasonable. Though Jerry is very competent--and seems to prefer--working
on VeeDubs, he also works on other makes, and has also done all shop-maintenance
on my family's other cars. Rates are quite fair, considering the quality
of his work. Because of the popularity of this one-man shop, turnaround
can sometimes be longer than hoped, i.e.: his next opening may be a week
away, then another two days to actually fix it. He might make an exception
for a hapless traveler on a roadtrip.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Connies Import Repair Service
N7778 State Road 26
Watertown, Wisconsin
920.699.2213
on Wisconsin State HWY 26, about three miles north of Interstate I-94
and about five miles south of Watertown.
|
Imports, VWs & Vanagons
Jeffrey Earl (jefferrata@yahoodotcom) writes:
VW-trained wrencher of many years, apparently worked in the service department
of a large dealership. Well-known among local VW enthusiasts, is very
familiar With air-cooled engines, owns a diesel Vanagon Westfalia, and
I presume knows waterboxers as well.
Quoted rates are fair, though my final bill was nearly double the estimate
because of additional work and parts. And he inadvertently destroyed an
expensive and hard-to-find part of my van, then declined to replace it
or reimburse me. To be fair, the work performed was competent and timely.
Though my one experience using this mechanic was less than satisfactory,
and I Will not use him again, your results may vary.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
|
Canada
|
Review
|
Riegel Tuning
5330 1A St. SW
Calgary, Alberta
Canada
403.255.6787
|
Porsche & Wasserboxer
Jay Johnstone (jay_johnstone@yahoodotcom) writes:
I highly recommend these guys. They are more of a Porsche shop, but
have VERY good mechanics, are quick and helpful, and do a great job! They
are very familiar With the Wasserboxer and are not afraid of vans, which
makes it nice to deal With them. One of the best things about them is
their flexibility, both myself and my Vanagon friends have done same-day
drop-offs for reasonably major work Without it being a problem.
Shop rate: $75/hr (CDN)
All Bosch parts, they are a bit elitist in that respect, good stock on
site or Within the day.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Tony's Auto Service
611 11 Avenue SE
Calgary, Alberta
Canada
403.266.3397
Paul and Dale owners
Manager - Paul
(1 Compliant)
|
Type of Shop: Repair
Will Work On: All years of VW - aircooled and watercooled
Rob McLeod (mcrmcleod@telusdotnet) writes:
Very competent, fair bills, No BS. Paul has owned and worked on Syncro's.
Been using these guys since 1984 to service my Vdubs. Very pleased with
the service. Low-key and unpretentious, but really know their stuff.
Report Date: Mar 2005
Chris Iwanowski (chrisiwanowskiatmacdotcom)
writes:
Overall Shop Rating: Excellent
Recommend: Yes
Saved our cross Canada vacation. Paul at Tony's auto service was a very
honest and all around nice guy. We showed up first thing one morning,
without an appointed, and ask him to help with an hesitation problem with
our 78 Westfalia. He was booked into the next week, but was able to spend
30 minutes with our bus that morning and fixed the problem. We thanked
him and were on our way. It was such good service, we booked an appointment
on the way back and he fixed the brakes, gas heater and a bunch of other
stuff.
Book ahead - they're busy - which is a good thing,
Report Date: Oct 2005
Derrick writes:
I was very disappointed with Paul. He was rude and had no time for my
questions regarding my cracked head. Told me he was too busy for people
not with a car in his shop.
Too bad, I was leaning towards giving him some business.
Overall Shop
Rating: Avoid
Recommend: No
Report Date: Oct 2005
|
Darsh Import Auto Parts
4821 118th Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta
Canada
780.477.5000
|
Repair & Parts
Reg Lukasik (tya2@agtdotnet) writes:
This is a good shop for electrical work. These boys are knowledgeable
about a variety of VW types and learning about Eurovans through the restoration
projects I bring them. They actually fix stuff as opposed to simple "remove
and replace". Limited shop equipment, no alignment rack.
Report Date: Dec 2003
|
Southgate VW AUDI
5220 Gateway Boulevard
Edmonton, Alberta
Canada
780.435.4821
(1 Compliant)
|
Repair & Parts
Reg Lukasik (tya2@agtdotnet) writes:
This is a big time VW dealer with all the tools and equipment, a one time
renter and seller of VW Eurovans and Campervans. They have consistently
demonstrated incompetence when dealing with VW Eurovans. They are a "remove
and replace with new" kind of shop. They usually remove a bunch of stuff
that wasn't broken, and if you aren't smart they will try an sell you
a new computer. The kind of shop that is fit for buying parts only.
They will break more than they fix. I haven't even given them a try in
almost a year because of ongoing demonstrated incompetence which seems
to be condoned by management. Even showing them bills for similar work
by other VW shops will not shame them into reducing excessive labor charges.
If you insist on using a real VW shop for warranty repairs go to
Norden Autohaus.
Recommend: No
Report Date: Dec 2003
|
Westside Automotive Ltd.
10010 168 Street
Edmonton, Alberta
Canada
780.489.8021
Just inside the West end of Edmonton once Hwy 16 turns into Stoney Plain
Road
|
Repair
Tony Schiebel (Tony.Schiebel@edm.montage.ca)
writes:
They specialize in VWs and have fixed my Syncro Westie and assorted Rabbits
and Siroccos I have owned. There are very good and knowledgeable. Anyone
traveling up to the Yukon via the Mackenzie highway Will need to pass
closely to Edmonton. If you have any problems give these guys a call.
Tell them you heard about them on the internet.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Reg Lukasik (tya2@agtdotnet) writes:
I second a highly recommended for Westside Automotive in Edmonton. Good
shop has received a lot of business from me during restorations of a number
of Eurovans. These guys don't just work on VWs they love them. Fred the
owner restores VWs and often hosts the local VW club the Air Riders. No
alignment rack.
Report Date: Dec 2003
|
Buny's
N'Bugs Auto Repair Ltd
44344 #C Yale Road West
Chilliwack, British Columbia V2R 4H2
Canada
604.795.2869
Toll Free 877.795.2869
Fax 604.795.2869
Owners: Greg and Clara Hooper
* They are also available on 24 hour notice for traveler assistance.
|
Repair
Paul Kelly (paulkelly@dccnetdotcom) writes:
I have a fine shop for the list. Had some work done recently at this family
run business. The cost was quite reasonable and the mechanic Greg Hooper,
is experienced in all VW models. I was very confident in his diagnostic
and repair abilities.
Clara, his wife who runs the front end, told me they go to lots of shows
and have quite a collection of Bugs and Vans at home. There are lots of
wounded VW models stored about the property that supply used parts. Greg
is also experienced in conversions.
Report Date: Mar 2004
|
The Bug Shop
11965-95th Ave
Delta, British Columbia
Canada
604.589.2236
Owners: Shane and Eddie
|
VW Repairs and Parts ... Will Work On:
Beetles, Vans and Vanagons
Jake de Villiers (crescentbeachguitarattelusdotnet)
writes:
Overall Shop Rating: Excellent
Recommend: Yes
These guys are real mechanics. They won't always answer the phone because
they are incredibly busy. The shop is a zoo, with engines, transaxles
and stuff everywhere, and they are the only place to get your VW motor
rebuilt in the Vancouver area.
They replaced the clutch on our 87 Golf, and when I went to pick it up
Shane said that he had adjusted the clutch to factory spec, but had noticed
when he drove it in that I had it set up differently. Did I want it that
way? He also replaced the rear seal ($14) without asking. Most guys wouldn't
have noticed the clutch setup, let alone re-adjusted it for the customer,
and it seems that these days most shops would have waited for the rear
seal to fail so that they could charge the 4 1/2 hrs labour all over again.
Report Date: Oct 2005
|
AutoVolks
Duncan, British Columbia
Canada
(1 Compliant)
|
VWs
Shawn Wright (swright@SLS.BC.CA) writes:
It took a flat deck and a call to the
local police to get the van back, With a partially rebuilt engine, missing
many parts, and a trans still in pieces With a trashed R&P.
Legal action is pending.
Not Recommended
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
The Skylight Guy
Po Box 631
Gibson, British Columbia VON 1VO
Canada
604.886.1979
sales@theskylightguydotcom
www.theskylightguydotcom
Owner: Trevor Reid
|
Parts - Skylights
Larry Chase (roadguy@roadhausdotcom)
writes:
Simply put .... the best damn skylights.
Report Date: Mar 2004
|
Duane's German Autohaus
#105-19640 Landmark Way,
Langley, British Columbia V3A-7Z5
Canada
Shop 604.533.4502
Mobile 604.897.4419
|
Repair
Glen Cook (doublecabguy@shaw.ca) writes:
They're a great shop!
Always good work at very reasonable rates. Very knowledgeable with Syncro
vans and other VWs. They have a flat deck tow truck and can pick-up and
drop of vehicles. Super friendly and helpful. They have worked on my fleet
of Syncro's and are very good a sourcing used and new parts as well.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Bavarian
Import Auto Repairs
#2-1260 Trans Canada Highway
Nanaimo, British Columbia V9R 5M2
Canada
250.754.8944
|
Works on all VW's.
Anonymous writes:
Good knowledge and good service, ex. long term VW mechanics at work
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Tobi Benne (tobibenne@yahoo.ca) writes:
Very knowledgeable, and went out of their way to accommodate me with a
failing Eurovan clutch. They fit me in quickly did excellent work at a
good price.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
German Motor Car
2723A Murray
Port Moody, British Columbia V3H 1X1
Canada
604.936.3999
www.germanmotorcardotcom
Across the tracks from the Port Moody Train Station (West coast Express)
This is a suburb of Vancouver BC
|
All VW & Mercedes - factory trained mechanics
for both
Chris Briar (nealfitzgerald@email.msndotcom) writes:
I have been bringing my van to this place for a number of years and have
nothing but high praise for these guys. Their estimates are routinely
way below quotes I have received at other garages.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Kelly Bauman (bauman@icandotnet) writes:
These guys are a dream come true. They are honest, fair and very
reliable.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Christine Catigliano (ccastigliano@sprintmaildotcom) writes:
They know VW Busses inside and out. They charge actual time not
book time. This has resulted in huge savings.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
|
Fast Forward Automotive
Inc.
4356 Quesnel-Hixon Road
Quesnel, British Columbia
Canada V2J 6Z3
250.992.7775
250.992.1160 Fax
www.fastforward.ca
sales@fastforward.ca
Owner: David Marshall
|
Vanagon Repair, Engine Conversions and
Accessories
Larry Chase (roadguy@roadhausdotcom)
writes:
Highly Recommend.
List member and Vanagon/Syncro Enthusiast
... David Marshall's business.
- Vanagon Accessories and Engine Conversions
- Vanagon, Transporter and Iltis Sales
and Importation
- European Lighting for most Volkswagen
models
Report Date: Jul 2003
|
Vancouver Transmission Ltd
113-6875 King George Hwy
Surrey, British Columbia
Canada
604.590.8404
Owners: Hans von Loessl
|
Repair ... Will Work On: Anything
Jake de Villiers (crescentbeachguitarattelusdotnet) writes:
Overall Shop Rating: Excellent
Recommend: Yes
This is a great shop. They are a widely skilled bunch, like their boss,
a German Diesel Mechanic. Their transmission guy is really experienced,
their fuel injection guy teaches tradesmen in the evenings (using a pegboard
with a VW Digijet setup!) and they can tell the difference between a 67
Cougar and a 68! I've seen 40 foot motor homes on their alignment rack
and Early 911's on the hoist, a Syncro Panel Van and a completely slammed
59 Chevy Station Wagon.
I sent my Mom there to have her brakes done and Dan noticed the headlight
bulb on the dash that I hadn't installed yet. So he took off the bra and
replaced the bulb, no charge! These people like cars a lot, and it shows.
I recommend them without reservation.
Report Date: Oct 2005
|
Nutech Auto
Trail, British Columbia
Canada
|
Repair
Ian Sibbald (sibbald@telusdotnet) writes:
I have been very happy with Nutech Auto. They've looked after my van for
some time and have always been fair. They seem to have considerable experience
with VW vans. A solid positive recommendation.
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
Beetle Spa
246 East First St.
North Vancouver, British Columbia
Canada
604.985.0481
|
Repair
Katherine J. Maas (kathmaas@telusdotnet) writes:
Larry, we’ve been getting Vanita serviced for about 6 years at Beetle
Spa. This is a family-owned business. They do good work and are honest.
In particular, they don’t do work that doesn’t need to be done.
Report Date: May 2005
|
WB Motors
4-342 E. Esplanade
North Vancouver, British Columbia
Canada
604.987.0009
|
Claude (subzero@telusdotnet) writes:
I’ve got a great repair shop in Vancouver,
Swiss guy , very honest.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Autobahn Import Auto Service
1721 Main St.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Canada
604.873.3858
|
Repair
Bernie Steininger (berniejsca@yahoo.ca) writes:
Frankie is the owner and head mechanic. He knows VW buses inside and out.
His pricing is fair and he will move heaven and earth to get you on the
road quickly. Last year heading out to Buses by the Bridge we had a major
problem and he had us on road in a few hours. He is close to centre of
the city. He does all of my work and I am very happy. I like a man who
loves his work!
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Blenheim Imports
2075 W. 12th
Vancouver, British Columbia
Canada
604.738.0910
|
Repair ... Imports
|
Bavarian Imports
1260B Island Hwy
near ... Nanaimo
Vancouver Island , British Columbia
250.754.8944
|
Repair
Roy Olynick (rrh@AUTOBAHN.MB.CA) writes:
If you're in need of expert VW repairs near Nanaimo, B.C., I recommend
Bavarian Imports. They got us on the road quickly when we needed repairs.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Valley West Autohaus
Vancouver Island, British Columbia
Canada
250.334.9888
Owner: Roger Matthews
|
VWs
D/J/K Scriba (dskwc@telusdotnet) writes:
Recommended
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Hogg's Auto Repair
Trans Canada Highway
North of Victoria, British Columbia
Canada
250.478.4970
at the Trans Canada Highway on the Malahat North of Victoria, steep entrance
on West side of Highway underneath Malahat Auto Parts
|
Middle aged and older VWs
Björn Ratjen (bratjen@direct.ca) writes:
Good work, casual atmosphere, good advice, cheap parts
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Autospeil
#3 - 2333 Government St.
Victoria, British Columbia
Canada
250.360.0173
|
Harvey Orom (horom@coastnetdotcom) writes:
Here is the shop I recommend. After the tranny rebuild, there was a very
small oil leak. Russell (the owner) removed the tranny and replaced the
gasket - free of charge. He has been voted best mechanic in Victoria for
several years running.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
Beetle Auto Service
629 David St.
Victoria, British Columbia
Canada
250.382.1815
|
VWs, Audi, Porsche, and diesels
N2K (gocrow@sprint.ca) writes:
"I have used this repair facility for many years. The place has I estimate
10 mechanics who specialize in VWs, Audi, Porsche, and diesels. It is
a family-run operation, for many decades. I feel this is the best service
department on the island, great value and honest.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Lou's Auto Repair
617 Vancouver Street
Victoria, British Columbia
Canada
250.383.3131
|
VW, esp Vanagon (both AC and WC)
Allan Robbins (arrobbi@ibmdotnet)writes:
Knowledgeable workers and reliable work, not inexpensive but much less
than VW dealer. Always lots of Vans in for service or repair.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Lady Luck is my Friend (ladylucki@hotmaildotcom)
writes:
I've used Lou's Auto since my warranty on my '94 Eurovan expired in 2000.
I
have never had a problem with them. They are a small shop and some of
the
fancy electrical/electronic stuff and anything related to air conditioning,
they cannot do because they don't have the equipment. They are much more
reasonable than the local VW dealer.
What I really like is that I can talk to the mechanic directly. Both Eric
and George are very approachable and listen to what I have to say. They
don't treat me like a woman or talk down to me because I am a woman. To
me that's a huge asset.
And, everything they've fixed is fixed right. Lastly, they are not afraid
to say when it's something they cannot do. Then, I am afraid, the only
option for me is the VW dealer who is very very good but also very very
expensive.
Prior to May 2005
|
Auto Haus Volkswagen
660 Pembina Highway
Winnipeg, MB R3M 2M5
204.284.7520
Fax 204.284.0390
www.autohausvwdotcom
|
Repair
Jeff Palmer (icecoldvw@hotmaildotcom)
writes:
Recommended
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Continental Car Services
330 Wardlaw Avenue,
Winnipeg, Manitoba R3L 0L6
Canada
204.453.0996
|
Repair
Jeff Palmer (icecoldvw@hotmaildotcom)
writes:
Recommended
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Frank Motors
575 Notre Dame Avenue,
Winnipeg, Manitoba R3B 1S5
204.987.2461
|
Repair
Jeff Palmer (icecoldvw@hotmaildotcom)
writes:
Recommended
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
E.K. Import Auto Service Ltd.
1043 Springfield Road
Winnipeg, Manitoba
R2G 3T2
Canada
204.663.8886
|
Roy (rrh@autobahn.mb.ca) writes:
Frank Koesters (the owner) is as enthusiastic about VWs as the rest of
us. He and his staff have been taking good care of my '87 Westfalia since
1994. Honest, reliable, knowledgeable, experienced... E.K. knows VWs!
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
St James Volkswagen Ltd
305 Madison St. at Ness
Winnipeg, Manitoba R3J 1H9
204.788.1100
www.stjamesvwdotcom
Fax 204.788-1109
|
Dealer ... Repair & Parts
Jeff Palmer (icecoldvw@hotmaildotcom)
writes:
As far as I know they all do air and watercooled, Type II's and Vanagons,
and the dealers do Eurovans. Not sure about the first two independents.
The dealers here actually work on Vanagons, not like some I've seen.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Arn's Automotive
185 Commonwealth Ave.
Mount Pearl,
Newfoundland
Canada
709.747.2767
|
Repair
Phil Menchions (pwmenchions@hotmaildotcom)
writes
Good knowledge of VW's. They do plenty of work on Vanagons
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Stone's Automotive
969 Topsail Rd.
Mount Pearl,
Newfoundland
Canada
709.364.6365
|
Repair
Phil Menchions (pwmenchions@hotmaildotcom)
writes
Good knowledge of VW's. They do plenty of work on Vanagons
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
TJ's
16 Harbor View Ave
St. John's, Newfoundland
Canada
709.753.7373
off Torbay Rd, turn in by Goodyear sign
|
All European, mostly watercooled VW
Anonymous writes:
Great shop, exc. people. Owned by Maggie and TJ. Have good facilities,
and a great staff. Yurgen does the Vanagon work. A little expensive,
but cheaper than the dealer, and top quality parts and repairs.
Huge scrapyard.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Frank Condelli &
Associates
RR #2, 1873 Concession #8
Almonte, Ontario K0A1A0
Canada
613.256.6763
Fkc43@aoldotcom
www.frankcondellidotcom
Ottawa Valley
|
Vanagon &
Vanagon
Westfaila
Repair
Larry Chase (roadguy@roadhausdotcom)
writes:
Service, repair, restoration, parts &
accessories.
Complete comprehensive diagnostics and
economical repair of mechanical and electrical problems. Engine
overhauls and replacements.
STEBRO/Vanagon Stainless Steel Exhaust
Systems
Also .... the source for those very cool
Westfalia Stove Grate Grills
Member: Vanagon List, LiMBO, IWCCC &
CCVWC
Report Date: Dec 2003
|
Jerseyville Garage
Highway 2
Alberton, Ontario
Canada
905.648.3674
between Brantford and Hamilton
|
VW diesel
John Olmsted (olmcons@netinc.ca) writes:
Recommended
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Larry's Auto Works
2409 Lyn Road
Brockville, Ontario K6V 5T3
Canada
613.342.4345
Owner: Larry Rogerson
Located near the 401 Highway in Brockville Ontario
|
Repair ... VWs Water-Cooled & Air-Cooled
Tom Hewitt (tomhewitt@sympatico.ca) writes:
Have been using this shop for service and repair of my VWs. Found them
to be knowledgeable and fair in my experience. Have seen many makes in
this shop for repairs. Including all VWs, Porsche, Volvo, BMW and Domestic.
My experience has been competent work done for a fair price.
Report Date: Dec 2003
|
Becker Automotive
Suburban Ave
Guelph, Ontario
Canada
519.837.2210
Owner: Klaus Becker
(1 Compliant)
|
Type of Shop: Repair
Will Work On: All years of VW - aircooled and watercooled
Anonymous writes:
Becker Auto has been around for a long time, and the owner Klaus knows
his stuff and a reputation of doing good work, however his staff does
not. He has huge employee turnover problems and this can result in some
job-for-a-day mechanic working on your VW. Insist that Klaus work on your
VW or go elsewhere.
Overall Shop
Rating: Below Average
Recommend: No
Report Date: Oct 2005
|
Lorne Park Car Centre
Mississauge, Ontario
Canada
905.823.8787
|
Repair ... VWs
Ron Mighton (rmighton@passport.ca) writes:
This is a good shop with excellent VW mechanics who know Westfalias
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Ron Mighton (rmighton@cogeco.ca) writes:
For Ontario I continue to recommend Lorne Park Car Centre in Mississauga
just steps from the Clarkson GO train station. which is the commuter train
into Toronto. The owner Rolf works on all kinds of VWs. he is very knowledgeable
about Westfalias and has summer daily driver is his own Westfalia.He is
not cheap at about $85 per hour but is very good.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Frank Houle
Rockland, Ontario
Canada
613.446.4656
|
Repair
Larry Johnson (ljohnson@halhinet.on.ca)
writes:
I met this guy at Bug/Van events in Kingston and Toronto. I was impressed
by his enthusiasm and knowledge. He has restored a prize Winning T2 Bus.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Algoma Motors
23 Great Northern Rd
Sault Ste Marie, Ontario
Canada
705.253.2387
|
Repair
Barb Cotton (cottonscrafts@yahoodotcom)
writes:
I have been having work done at Algoma Motors for the last 8 years, and
I love these guys. They are honest, don't try to tell me something needs
to be fixed when it doesn't, will use my parts if I can get them cheaper,
when I have a 1:00 appointment for an oil change and tune-up, the hoist
is ready at 1:00. Sometimes I think the labor might be a bit pricey, but
then again Steve has spent hours tracking down an electrical glitch and
not charged me for all the time. Whenever they fix something, it is done
right and I never have to think about it again. They have done major work
as well as little stuff, always done on time and within the price they
quoted. They are great.
Report Date: Apr 2005
|
Georgian Bay Motors
Springmount, Ontario
Canada
519.371.9600
(Georgian Bay Area)
|
Repair ... VWs
Judith Barr - Leo Girard (lgirard@bmtsdotcom) writes:
Former dealer head mechanic
Head mechanic Calvin is a real whiz on the Vanagon and other VW machines.
They use parallel market parts mostly, at times resort to original replacement
parts. Shop prices about CDN$45/hour.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Mark Decloux (declouxm@rogersdotcom)
writes:
I had occasion to use Georgian Bay Motors. I had new CV joints (whole
kit axle and joints both sides) installed. Prices were ball park and to
swap out the axles was only 1 hour of labour. ($59.00 / hour). They still
work on air cooled models too. Absolutely recommended.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Alpine Motors Ltd
10 Widmer Street
Toronto, Ontario
Canada M5V 2E7
416.593.0383
Type of Shop: Repair
Will Work On: Watercooled, Syncro, Air Cooled, Eurovan
|
Justin Seiferth writes:
While on vacation in Toronto my fan resistors blew. Brought the EV into
shop with cooling issues- he saw me the next day and had van ready for
me in just few hours. His questions clued me in he was very knowledgeable
about EVs. Also was working on Syncro and Beetle (not new model). Shop
was very clean, organized and well-equipped. Fix was LESS than it would
have cost me to buy the parts and fix it myself! Owner is German- with
several senior mechanics all very friendly and knowledgeable. Often has
several sweet looking cars in the lot- pristine Ghias and so on. If you're
held over there's an excellent Hostel (Canandiana) a few minutes walk
away.
Overall Shop Rating: Excellent
Recommend: Yes
Can't recommend the shop highly enough.
Report Date: Oct 2005
|
Pete's VW
1151 Roselawn
Toronto, Ontario
Canada
416.783.2126
|
Repair ... VWs, Vanagons & Eurovans
Mike Walker (m-walker@sympatico.ca) writes:
Bill Barber on this list originally recommended Pete's VW in the Dufferin
& Eglinton area of Toronto. (Thanx again, Bill! ) I have visited Pete's
several times and now consider him my regular guy. They do not specialize
in vans, but do seem to know VWs quite well and welcome Vanagons & Eurovans.
So far mostly minor repairs & maintenance (timing belt) for me (thank
heavens!), but weren't afraid to tackle an obscure camper / Westfalia
battery charging problem, did a nice job on my van of isolating the problem
and suggested a cheap 'work- around' rather than spending a lot of $$$.
Felt I was treated well, and while waiting was pleased to see the boss,
Mike, talk to regular customers with affection and respect.
P.S. -Why is 'Pete's VW' run by a guy named Mike, you might ask? Well,
Pete is Mike's Dad, now semi-retired and spending most of his time in
Greece. Mike and his son Peter now run the place, Grampa Pete happened
to be in when I visited, proudly wearing his Grandson's workshirt as he
helped out on a car.
Report Date: Nov 2003
|
E and W Motors
Toronto, Ontario
Canada
416.691.0807
on Kingston Road East just east of Victoria Park, (eastern part of Toronto
just north east of "the Beaches" )
|
Repair ... AC & WC
Michael (cousinit@usadotnet) writes:
Very honest and affordable people. Karl is very knowledgeable and approachable
(and fair too)
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Owasco-VW
1425 Dundas St
E. Whitby, Ontario
Canada
905.668.9383
50 km east of Toronto, north of Thickson in Whitby
|
Repair ... VW shop with lots of camper
experience
Chris (chrilow@enoreo.on.ca) writes:
They do a lot of work on Vanagon and Eurovan campers. I have
had good service.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Garage
Potvin et Roy
1603 av. Du Pont Sud
Alma, Quebec
Canada
819.668.5808
|
Repairs - Specialize in volks
Benoit Huot (huotb@videotron.ca) writes:
Very good work
Report Date: Apr 2004
|
|
Mr. Mags
Asbestos,
Quebec
Canada
819.879.6366
|
Parts - Tires
Benoit Huot (huotb@videotron.ca) writes:
Good price on Yokoama
tires.
Report Date: Apr 2004
|
Auto-Precision JMJ (Importions Alter-Ego)
Boul. Hamel, Québec
Canada
418.872.4641
|
Benoit Huot (huotb@videotron.ca) writes:
Another shop with good comments
Report Date: Apr 2004
|
Le Westhaus
1024 Denison Est
Granby, Quebec
Canada
450.378.4085
Westy@endirect.qc.ca
Hwy 10, exit 74, Right on Pierre-Laporte. Right again @ Denison
|
Repair ... AC Westies
Anonymous writes:
Extremely friendly, lots ok used parts and very professional too. Very
well known and appreciated in Québec. Fair: 20$/hour.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Atelier de Mécanique Bouffard
33 St-Jude
Granby, Québec
Canada
514.378.8834
|
Repair Specializing in VW & Porsche
Benoit Huot (huotb@videotron.ca) writes:
Another shop with good comments
Report Date: Apr 2004
|
Les Ent. Cyprien Clermont Ltée
10 Chemin Milton
R.R. 4 (coin 112 et 137)
Granby , Québec
Canada
514.378.1997
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Repair
Benoit Huot (huotb@videotron.ca) writes:
Report Date: Apr 2004
|
|
Techno Bug
478 rue de l'église
Île Bizard, Quebec
Canada
514.696.7396
|
Repair ... Mostly AC
Benoit Huot (huotb@videotron.ca) writes:
Motor assembly, machining of engine parts
, testing, parts (mostly air cooled) Air cooled specialist, also work
on wasser heads, very good machinist.
Report Date: Apr 2004
|
S.G. Specialiste VW
215 Ave Laval
Laval, Quebec H7N 3V8
Canada
450.669.1516
|
Repair ... VW
Normand Gagnon (NormandSylvie@ibmdotnet)
writes:
I go to this repair shop just north of Montréal, he's very good.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
hansi88 (hansform@hotmaildotcom) writes:
I'll give a hearty recommendation.
The proprietor, Serge, is a top-notch mechanic, honest and open and trustworthy.
He's the only mechanic I let touch my car, this coming from a guy who
normally even changes his own tires because of bad shop experiences! He
uses quality parts, and always ready to give you the options and prices
if there are two alternatives. Friendly and really goes out of his way
to make sure you understand what's needed and what's being fixed. Speaks
French,
but does his utmost to make himself understood in English, and it has
never been a problem. Shop rates are $55 CAD as of 8/2003.
Report Date: Dec 2003
Benoit Huot (huotb@videotron.ca) writes:
HE knows VW, all years
Report Date: Apr 2004
|
Trans Artik Inc
2265 de la Province
Longueuil, Québec
Canada
450.646.7646
|
Service/vente Espar (Eberspr)
Benoit Huot (huotb@videotron.ca) writes:
Report Date: Apr 2004
|
i CB GARAGE
De Maisoneuve Blvd.
Montreal, Quebec
Canada
514.481.9208
Near Decarie Blvd. in ndg,
|
Repair
Allone (allone@sprint.ca) writes:
It's a small shop manned by one mechanic and his son (apprenticing) and
one helper. Chris worked under the previous owner (Mr. Clemens; definitely
a German man whom I respect very much. Now Mr. Clemens is retiring and
selling the business to Chris and his son Craig. These guys are the best
ones I have ever found (I've seen more than a few). They are 100% approachable;
you can stand there and talk with Chris while he is working and he Will
explain anything you want to know. He is the kind of guy who Will re-new
first and replace second. He's full of common sense where many others
I've seen are full of the other stuff. He has let me do all the grunt
work in changing the head gaskets and rings (we found a way to change
the rings Without dropping the engine) just outside his garage door!!
We worked together and the total job cost me $600.00, parts and labor!
He's as honest as Abe himself must've been, extremely knowledgeable, clever
and a hell of a troubleshooter (including electrics). They have no hoists
in the shop and do all, and i mean all, of their work on their backs.
I highly recommend them.
Report Date: Jan 2004
|
Garage Antoine
1274 Gilford
Montreal, Quebec
Canada
514.524.5133
|
Repair
Benoit Huot (huotb@videotron.ca) writes:
No comments
Report Date: Apr 2004
|
IMEXCA Automotive
Ltée
2566, Jean-Talon Est
Montréal, Quebec
Canada
514.722.8188
|
New
Parts
Benoit Huot (huotb@videotron.ca) writes:
Report Date: Apr 2004
|
MAM Garage
5400 Papineau Street
Montreal, Quebec
Canada
514.523.1472
|
Anything made in Germany and then some
Anonymous writes:
These guys are very good. They've been in business since 1964. Run by
two German guys, Fred and Bert (not Hans and Franz !). They're not cheap
and its best to book ahead of time as they're usually quite busy.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
|
Marcel Filion
457, Rang 1 Est
Ste-Christine, Québec
Canada
819.858.2890
Montréal area
|
Repair, Subie Conversions & Parts
Benoit Huot (huotb@videotron.ca) writes:
Subaru conversion specialist & used parts.
Many westy parts for sale, he is good
Report Date: Apr 2004
|
Station Service Côté
443 Dequen
Saint-Gédéon, Québec
Canada
418.345.2442
Montréal area
|
Repair
Benoit Huot (huotb@videotron.ca) writes:
Old VW mechanic
Report Date: Apr 2004
|
Restauration BJP
1446 rue Soucy Porte
door # 12,
St-Hubert, Quebec J4T1A3
514.823.4865
info@benplacedotcom
huotb@videotron.ca
jphl19@hotmaildotcom
www.benplacedotcom/bjp.htm
Owners: Benoit Huot & Jean-Philippe
Montréal area
|
Repair & Restoration (Honda and VW)
Benoit Huot (huotb@videotron.ca) Shop
owner writes:
Our main goal at "Restauration BJP" is antic and sport vehicles restoration,
but we will offer a multitude of specialize mechanical work. Engine transplant
will be our strength.
Report Date: Sep 2004
Larry Chase (roadguy@roadhausdotcom) writes:
Back in July I was stranded in Montreal with a blown engine. Ben & JP
worked tirelessly thru the night to install a new (rebuilt) engine and get
me back on the road in 3 days. Remarkably this was the most problem free
engine install I have ever seen.
2 weeks later .... as luck would have it .... I lost 4th gear on the
transmission. In 3rd gear, I limp 200 miles back to Restauration BJP.
Thru mutual contacts, we find a used Syncro tranny. Once again
Ben & JP jump into action ... this time in the middle of a rain storm. In
a bit over 12 hrs, I'm back on the road once again.
10,00 miles later and both engine & tranny are still performing flawlessly.
For honesty, integrity and professionalism, I give these guys my highest
recommendation.
Report Date: Sep 2004
|
Atelier Techno-Pro
508 Laurier
Saint-Jean sur Richelieu, Québec
Canada
450.348.6048
Montréal area
|
Repair
Benoit Huot (huotb@videotron.ca) writes:
Good work, knows Westies
Report Date: Apr 2004
|
|
VAPS
Volkswagen Audi Porsche Service
134 rue Champlain
Saint-Jean sur Richelieu, Québec
Canada
450.346.0457
Montréal area
|
Repair, Parts & Engine Specialist
Benoit Huot (huotb@videotron.ca) writes:
Westfalia specialist Engine installation.
Lots of used and new parts
Report Date: Apr 2004
VAPS
Volkswagen Audi Porsche Service
134 rue Champlain, St-Jean
Canada
450.346.0457
Jean Benoit (tantra69@yahoodotcom) writes:
In Québec Province , Canada, the very best VW Vanagon shop is www.volksprodotcom
Have look and put it on your list. Mike is the co-owner and is very honest.
Mar 2005
|
L.L. Tech
1285 Queen Nord
Sherbrooke, Québec
Canada
819.566.7262
Owner: Louis Lalonde
Montréal area
|
Repair
Benoit Huot (huotb@videotron.ca) writes:
A man of his word.
Report Date: Apr 2004
|
SPAD Auto
Route 117
Val-David, Québec
Canada
Montréal area
|
Repair ... European
Benoit Huot (huotb@videotron.ca) writes:
Report Date: Apr 2004
|
Vic-Wagen
810, rue Principale Est
St- Paul d'Abbotsford, Québec
Canada
514.379.5790
|
Repair
Benoit Huot (huotb@videotron.ca) writes:
Another shop with good comments
Report Date: Apr 2004
|
Garage Denis Boisclair
852 Notre-Dame
St-Sulpice, Québec
Canada
450.589.2228
|
Repair & used parts
Benoit Huot (huotb@videotron.ca) writes:
Report Date: Apr 2004
|
Garage Euro Technique de l'Auto Inc.
1094 St-Marc
Sherbrooke, Québec
Canada
819.564.1176
only 50km from Vermont border
|
VW, Audi, Vanagon, Westy, Syncro
Serge Proteau (proteau@togetherdotnet) writes:
They know all about bus, vanagon, syncro and westy. rates Cdn$38 / hour.
They are located about 50km from the Vermont border.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Benoit Huot (huotb@videotron.ca) writes:
Report Date: Apr 2004
|
Precision Motors
LTD
1726 McAra Street
Regina, Saskatchewan
Canada S4N 6L4
306.525.0168
(2 Compliants)
|
Repair, Parts ... All years of VW - aircooled
and watercooled
Anonymous writes:
We had to make an emergency pit stop there on a cross Canada trip. We
had a hesitation problem with our 78 Westfalia and the local VW dealership
recommended them as the local "aircooled" experts. They replaced a bunch
of parts (wires, distributor cap, fuel filter, etc - $200) but didn't
fix the problem. The problem turned out to be a lose temp sensor - easy
fix. They wanted to replace more parts but I wouldn't go for it. I also
bought a $200 muffler from them, which I could have bought elsewhere for
$60 (but we needed it bad). The muffler was crap and broke after 2000kms.
If I lived in Regina I wouldn't use them for parts or service.
Overall Shop
Rating: Avoid
Recommend: No
Report Date: Oct 2005
Paul Guzyk (paulatguzykdotcom) writes:
A traveler from Winnipeg shared his story with me about this garage.
Avoid them at all costs!
-------
While in Saskatchewan we had a problem with our automatic transmission
flex plate. A VW dealer in Regina pointed us to Precision Motors. This
shop removed the engine to install the flex plate. (A proper Vanagon shop
would do it by removing the transmission, much le$$ work). they told us
that everything was fine now and that the driveline was ok and should
have trouble free driving. When they reassembled it, the cruise control
did not work and a coolant line was not attached. The wire and connector
for the cruise control were taken out completely. The rear hatch shocks
were exchanged for bad ones without my knowledge. The door nearly fell
on my head. Also the power steering belt was no longer the original that
was in there when I dropped it off. They also doubled the charges for
towing. On the way back to Winnipeg, 370 km later just outside of Brandon,
the flex plate broke again!
Since they had removed the engine, the torque converter may have slipped
out and probably not reinstalled properly. This, I think was the cause
for breaking down again.
When we were finally towed home, we got in touch with the company, and
their comment was that they think there was more wrong then just the flex
plate. It’s interesting how their story changed.
We have since had our van repaired now in Winnipeg, at EK Import Auto
Service Ltd. They replaced the flex plate (again) and the torque converter.
So far everything is OK.
Overall Shop
Rating: Avoid
Recommend: No
Report Date: Oct 2005
|
John's
Auto Repair
Box 10348 RR1
Whitehorse, Yukon Y1A 7A1
Canada
|
Repair ... VW/Volvo/Subaru
Bill Dummitt (williamd@compuservedotcom) writes:
Saved me on a trip. Does lots of Vanagon and bus business.
One of the few VW shops in this part of the world.
Report Date: Prior to Nov 2003
Mark Tuovinen (mst@akdotnet) writes:
We highly recommend them for Vanagons in need. The owner is VW trained.
They rescheduled their work load for us with no prior notice on a Monday
morning when our clutch failed on the way home from buying the van in
Berkeley.
Report Date: Dec 2003
|
|
Mexico |
Review |
|
General Mexico Repair
Comments
|
Shops and Mechanics in Mexico are very
creative and used to finding ways to fix vehicles, many times without
Original Equipment parts.
They can be "brilliant" at making do.
Stories of small shops rebuilding water
pumps, alternators, transmissions, engines etc for stranded motorists
are very common on the list.
If in need of a repair .... start
asking around.
VW Dealers, Parts Stores. Repair Shops
... ask for a referral.
|
Geraldo VW's
Madero 2145 e/ Allende y Juarez
CP 23000
La Paz, BCS, Mexico
Tel/Fax: 91.112. 50056
Baja
|
Repair
Jay (jayfitz@cox-internetdotcom) writes:
I had my 73 VW campmobile worked on here in '95 and was really impressed.
Rogelio speaks great English and was fair and ran a clean shop- Invaluable,
when down there!
I pulled the address info from this site that talks about their positive
experience as well. http://www.clubvw.corvallis.or.us/mextrrip.htm
Report Date: Apr 2004
Robert F Champlin (robertchamplin@mindspringdotcom)
writes:
For us that go to Baja, the best is Rojelio at Gerraldo's VWs
in La Pas BCS.
I must put in a plug for my favorite mechanic south of the boarder.
This guy knows his stuff and is completely
honest and dirt cheap. If you get stranded, a wire/glue fix might get
you to La Paz where he can fix it correctly.
On a recent trip up the coast from La
Paz BCS to San Evaristo (one hell of a road), I hit a patch of deep mud
I did not see. The surface was crusted over by salt and down and in I
went. I broke the stabilizer bar off the front wheel.
Back in La Paz I took the van to Rojelio at Geraldo's VW.
He rebuilt the old part and at the end
of the day I was back on the road. They did a complete van checkout and
for $80 I got many little things tightened up.
The wiring harness was full of electrical tape fixes so they but in a
good used one for $40. I really like these guys, and the shop is very
quick and efficient and they are Syncro ready.
Rojelio is now hooked up with Peter at Volkscafe for those parts not available
in Baja, as well as those improvements you've been considering.
They have a tip jar on the counter if you are so inclined. There is a
little hole in the top for a rolled peso note, so I rolled up a 200 peso
note and stuffed it down the hole.
Rojelio thanked me then walked over to a large bell hanging on the office
wall and rang it enthusiastically. All the boys in the shop stood up from
their tasks and clapped and whistled. Nice.
The money collected is the Christmas fund.
Report Date: Mar 2005
|
Montes Motores y Transmisiones De
Competencia
Faraón Sarabia #108
Col. Benito Juárez
Ensenada B.C. México
Tel/Fax: 646.178.60.48
montes@montesmotoresytransmisionesdotcom
www.montesmotoresytransmisionesdotcom
Owner: Federico Montes
Baja
|
Repair ... Air cooled Engine & Transmission
Rebuilds
George Jannini (georgejoann@junodotcom)
writes:
Blew up my transmission again, this time
in Baja Mexico,. Got a rebuilt transmission for only $400 US from this
shop.
Report Date: Mar 2004
|
Saul's
Santa Rosalia
Baja CA Sur
Phone: 0446151590558
Owners Name: Saul
Baja
|
Repairs ... Aircooled & Watercooled
Joy Marcotte/Jeff Dardozzi (joymarcotteatyahoodotcom) writes:
Overall Shop Rating: Excellent
Recommend: Yes
Tripping though Baja CA Sur we developed an internal coolant leak in the
#1 cylinder as well as (what I thought) a noisy lifter just south of Santa
Rosalia. Not equipped to redo the head on the side of the road we checked
around the little town for a VW mechanic. We found a guy named Saul with
a tiny dirt-floored shop in the barrio outside of town. At first we were
a bit skeptical but his collection of race buggies around his shop helped
with confidence. We soon had the head off and found a valve guide worked
loose and located where the inner ring had failed and coolant was entering
the cylinder. He took it over to the local machine shop in town to replace
the valve guide and check the head for
cracks. Saul managed to find a gasket set (no German sealant, tough)
and had it all back together within 24 hrs of him showing up to our van.
Kinda of amazed and skeptical, I drove the van for hours to see if everything
would hold. Back in Oregon today and no problems - knock on wood. Cost
was $230 for everything. If you are traveling to Baja take Saul's cell
number - he will travel to do repairs as well. He is trustworthy and a
good soul, knows what is his doing. He works very clean and methodical.
It goes to show that its not the tools that makes the mechanic but the
mechanic that makes the tools sing. He speaks only Spanish. His cell is
(in Baja) 0446151590558. If you can't reach him, the the auto parts store
south of the town can put you in touch with him.
Report Date: Mar 2004
|
Unknown Shop Name
Located just before Mulege
On baja conception
On the eastern coast
Left side of the road going south
.... small shop
Baja
|
|
Cuernavaca Center for International
dialog on Development
CCIDD
Calle Leyva 39
Cuernavaca, Centro
62000 Mexico
Tel: 011.52.777 / 312-65-64 - Office
Director ... Ray Plankey
South and slightly west of Mexico City
|
Note: Not a repair shop
Local Contact
Phil Zimmerman (phil.zimmerman@mail.crcndotnet)
writes:
The director Ray Plankey, knows just
about every person in the city.
Great place to check-out after screaming down out of the mountains and
burning out your brakes!
Report Date: Apr 2004
|
|
Jack Ibarra
213.500.0004
Somewhere on the West
Coast
|
Repair ... any thing
Want a good mechanic to fix you up right
for all the topes and whatnot on the way, I highly recommend Jack Ibarra.
He has a site called classic car connection or something. can't remember
here, right now...but he's great.
Report Date: Jun 2005
|
