Is it best to go to a dealership for Jetta 80,000 service?

Question

I was just quoted $410 by a VW dealership (in Atlanta) for an 80,000 mile service on my 2001 Jetta. I'm curious if it's best to go to a dealership for such a big service, or if I could go to a smaller shop and get a cheaper price, but still get quality service. Is $410 a reasonable price to pay?

Answer 1

the major services are best done at dealerships. they have the advantage of seing the same cars over and over and know what items are most likely to chronicly wear out or may need attention at your specific mileage interval. with the dealership service, you can be absolutly positive that they are using the factory parts on your service...and of course volkswagens like factory parts.

someone before me had posted that the 80k service includes the timing belt and tensioners and such...i can guarentee you that this price DOES NOT include the timing belt replacement (there is a kit which includes all parts for $330...and that's just parts, you can expect at least 3 hours worth of labor for a timing belt change). if you have the VR6 engine in your jetta, you dont have a timing belt, rather a timing chain which doesnt need anything until somewhere around 100,000 miles (unless it's making noise). the 2.0l 4cylinder, the 1.9l tdi and the 1.8t do have timing belts however. Volkswagen suggests a 105,000 mile replacement interval, but there is nothing wrong with changing it early.

i have done all my own services and repair work on my jetta after the warranty ran out, but i worked as a service manager at dealerships before and have seen the difference between factory services and independent services. its true you can get a good quality service from an independent shop, but a dealership is more likely to give you more freebies like a car wash and vacuum, plus you might be able to test drive new cars while you are there (that new rabbit is nice and the Eos is pretty cool).

which ever way you go, just make sure you get a good feeling from the place, ask lots of questions, look for ASE certifications or awards on the walls. do people look happy to be there? are they friendly? it all makes a difference. dont let them make you feel like they are doing you a favor...it's your money, and we vote for who we like with our dollars.

and that price sounds reasonable.
good luck!

Answer 2

imho $410 is a reasonable price. 80k includes timing belt,tensioners,water pump change(other small things). It is crucial that everything is done correctly, if the belt slips, kiss your engine good bye.

Dealer is not always the best choice, i'm sure that they won't do the work properly, like change all the bolts and use right tork specifications.

Also, i don't think you can take it to your "regular" mechanic, there are special tools that are required for this job. You need a VW mechanic who has an experience, yet you'll be looking for about the same price.

now: If you let dealership do it, and later if something goes wrong- like the belt slips and damanges your engine, you can go back and complain. with your "regular vw" mechanic, it might a diffirent story.

so once again $410 is a reasonable price. take it to a dealer unless you have an experienced VW mechanic.

Answer 3

I would always perform my services at the dealer they may be a bit more expensive, but in the long run you will be better off.
remember the old saying you get what you pay for.the technician's at the dealership level are way more up to date on your vehicle. they have the tools and parts to do the job right the first time,also you local mechanic wont be able to perform the complete diagnostics check on your vehicle and usually doesn't have the special tool or knowledge to do the job right. at 80k i recommend replacing your timing belt ,water pump,serpentine belt if you haven't already also a brake fluid flush is recommended every 2yrs 20k. i hope this helps let me know if you have any other questions.

Answer 4

approved VW service IS the broking. There are not any self sustaining shops that are VW approved. there's no regulation interior the US that declares your guarantee is void while you're taking it to the keep of your selection. you like documentation on centers preformed, that's needed in maximum states, by using regulation ,besides. verify around,ask kinfolk,or connect a membership,and get a advice on a solid keep close to you and charm a relationship with them and in the event that they seem to do a solid interest,carry on with them. do not bypass to 3 or 4 shops finding for a cheep value, or have pals paintings on it for you, Do it suited the 1st time and your motor vehicle would desire to final you an prolonged time.

Answer 5

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Answer 6

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Answer 7

it is NEVER best to go to a dealer for service unless it is warranty work

Answer 8

no u should ask around if ur any of ur friends have hook up.