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Austin VeeDub
Categories: Automotive Body Shops Automotive Auto Repair Body Shops, Auto Repair [Edit]
1111 Old Bastrop HwyAustin, TX 78742
(512) 385-2462
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 8 am - 5 pm
Sat 9 am - 2 pm
Glennis C. said: "These guys fixed up my 2001 Ford F-150 after I thought it was going to be totalled. The whole right side was wrecked and they (just barely) got it under the cost that would have totalled the truck. They found the seat belt on that…" read more »
53 reviews for Austin VeeDub
53 reviews in English
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Review from Spencer L.
Austin, TX
4/26/2012
I feel like this review will be preaching to the choir after all of these other great reviews, but Austin VeeDub deserves another 5 stars all the same. I could go on and on about the details, but to make a long story short, not only did Darryl save me over $800, but I left so impressed that I will never go anywhere else for service on my vehicle from now on, just from this one experience.
After TWO other shops told me that I needed to replace my alternator on my 03 Jetta (both quoted me upwards of $800 for parts and service), I called up Austin VeeDub and got transferred to Darryl. Against all "smart shopping around" sense, I told Darryl what the other shops had told me and he said to come by so he could take a look. I was expecting to set up some sort of appointment, but Darryl said I could come right away (awesome) so I did. I literally drove up, met Darryl, he immediately popped my hood right in front of me and went to work. (awesome x 2) He tested the alternator and did confirm that it was failing, but then poked around for a couple minutes and discovered that some screw(?) needed tightening. He tightened it, tested again, and it PASSED. He insisted that he would not feel right telling me to replace the alternator from what he had seen. This was over a month ago and I have had no problems to this day. That being said, I don't think the other shops were TRYING to rip me off, but I do think that Darryl was just WAAAAY better at his job than any of those schmoes.
Whilst under the hood, I also asked about my air filter. He took a look and said it was terribly filthy and should be replaced. He did it right then and it cost $18. (awesome x 3). I also asked about my check engine light being on... once again, he plugged in a computer and did a test right then and there. Said it was my glow plugs and that there was really no reason to replace them living in a climate like Austin where it's always warm, when he easily could have just said "Yep, you need to replace your glow plugs. It costs $XX."
All in all, I probably spent about half an hour there. So when I went to pay, I was expecting some labor charges, perhaps even fees for the "testing", etc etc. which I would have been happy to pay. NOPE. Darryl charged me $18 for the air filter. THAT'S IT. (awesome x infinity). Needless to say, when something actually DOES go wrong and needs replacing, I know exactly where I'm going. -
Review from Ivete L.
Austin, TX
3/29/2012
Darryl and the crew just gave our Eurovan Camper its annual check-up/servicing and we were super happy with their work, honesty and knowledge his team gave us. Our van has 180,000 miles and runs exceptionally well thanks to these guys. I also save hundreds of dollars a year pulling interior, mechanical and body parts from the salvage yard. They are the only VW / Euro car mechanics in Austin who take the Go Local card. I highly recommend this business. We have nothing but successful experiences with our van there in over 5 years of service, including the body shop which is top notch.
Thank you!!! -
Review from Natalie N.
Austin, TX
3/13/2012
It was that time of the year that I needed to pass the state inspection - no go! I needed a new catalytic converter. After reading the reviews here (YELP) and hearing great stories about cats and old Bugs at Austin VeeDub - it was a no brainer. I made an appt at AVD.
First impression:
Darryl was very chill and quoted me on the spot. I told him about how I kept getting bad reads (lights) which did not allow me to pass the State Inspection. He immediately hooked up a laptop to my 2006 Jetta baby and printed out all the findings. Yep, right on, I needed a new catalytic converter. He told me to come back when I wanted to make the repair (since it was the holidays, I waited some time).
Repair time:
I got my car back last week and it is running smooth. Since I waited a few months for the repair, AVD helped me with a few brake light bulbs, a state inspection, and even added gas to my car! I was so relieved to see a brand new state inspection sticker on my car window! * Only a few of us know how that feels haha
The experience is great! Darryl is wonderful - a true Austinite with charisma and honesty!
Thanks Austin VeeDub! -
Review from Katherine G.
Austin, TX
4/13/2012 2 Check-ins Here
There is alot of wonderful things I have to say about this place. I had been given the run around about fixing my car before I went here. I after several bad experiences trying to get a head light fixed on my Jetta I was sent to Austin VeeDub. And told to to talk to darryl the service manger. He walked out to my car fixed the problem. Changed the bulb and reprogrammed my clicker which the dealership told me would take all day and be $250. I was in and out in less than and hour and spent less than $20. These guys are fantastic. I am so glad that I found out about these guys they are great. Don't go to the dealer. Save your money and go to Austin VeeDub you have better service and a will save a lot of money.
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Review from Michael B.
Austin, TX
11/10/2011
Great first experience with Austin VeeDub. I've been wanting to try them for a while now and finally figured out how to get over there. They aren't all that far from my house, but it's a little hidden if you aren't familiar with the area. If you are driving north on 183, take the first right at the first flashing yellow light. It might be a little tricky to get over in traffic but it can be done. That road will T and you take a right, Austin VeeDub is on the left. Sane dealer alternative service is yours.
I hit a coyote one evening recently in my A4. Poor coyote. And ever since my brake light would come on while driving. It was driving my wife nuts. It also knocked out a fog light and plastic grill. I needed an oil change anyway so decided to try Austin Vee Dub. Over the phone they even tried diagnosing the problem as low brake fluid! I was 99% sure that wasn't it since I had all that drained and refilled last year. But good free advice!
I brought in the car and they kept it overnight and drove it around a few times. After just cleaning the brake sensor everything seemed to be fine! The price was so reasonable for that and the oil change I went ahead and let them order a new grill for me and foglight which I would have probably just gotten around to doing myself someday. Brake light hasn't come on again. I am a happy customer.
Looking forward to returning for the next oil change. I will likely be coming here for the timing belt change as well when that's needed. Hopefully Austin VeeDub can keep my car running for years. -
Review from Sarah B.
Austin, TX
Updated - 12/8/2011 1 Check-in Here
Just got the 11-year-old baby back from the yearly overhaul and prep for state inspection. Once again, AVD gave us excellent and honest service. I will not trust my Passat to anyone else. When/if I do decide to part ways with the dear baby (first and only brand new car I've ever purchased)(made me fall in love with VWs), it's very likely I'll get another VW (*slams head against wall in frustration*)(why in the H are these cars like crack?). And when/if this likelihood happens, you can bet your bottom dollar I'll be bringing it to AVD for all services.
Shout out to Darryl. Awesome dude. They're all great guys at AVD.
Oh, and I forgot to mention all the cute kit-ehs. (White Ghia with paw prints all over the hood.) KIT-EHS! These guys clearly are animal friendly.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/18/2011
Carnac the Magnificent!
I've read the good, the bad, and the ugly.
Seriously, folks, if you have a VW… Read more »
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Review from Joe F.
Austin, TX
2/27/2012
These guys rock. Honest, smart and professional. My wife has a 2007 EOS which we bought at Maund. After the warranty expired, we have taken it here. The same headlight that Maund said would take 2 days and $500.00 to repair, was done by VeeDub in 10 minutes and for $30.00. When the Airbag light came on, you can only guess what Maund said, Veedub looked at told us what the problem most likely was (someone sprayed Armour All on a sensor) and sent on our way at no charge. If you have any questions about your VW, they will take the time to answer all of them. Rates are highly reasonable.
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Review from Cotton F.
Austin, TX
7/19/2011
A friend with very limited resources bought an early 1970's VW camper bus... when I first saw it I thought oh crap, X doesn't have the $ or the experience to make this happen, have no idea how he was able to drive it from Tyler to Austin... Anyway, in short time the clutch went to pieces, charging system didn't work, ran poorly, etc.. Time to help a friend and hopefully have some fun.
Austin VeeDub had everything I needed in various price ranges... German, to Chinese, to used.. Also had good advice and understood modifications... I replaced clutch, swapped generator to alternator, resized carb jets to suit level of engine modification and tuned... inspected...
What could easily have been a relatively unpleasant task was actually somewhat fun due to the existence of Austin VeeDub, a great VW resource for Austin. -
Review from Amber A.
Austin, TX
4/3/2012
This place is absolutely best. Daryl is a straight shooter and beyond fair. The guys at the shop are all great and know these cars better than anyone else. Would not take my VW anywhere else.
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Review from Danielle L.
Austin, TX
9/23/2011
Fantastic!
I no longer have my VW, but when I did, these guys were awesome and saved me more times than I can count. I recommend them to anyone who has a VW. They're really nice, laid back guys. Darryl is the best! They're all very straightforward and honest, and they will do everything they can to help you out.
Highly recommended! -
Review from Chris L.
12/28/2011
These guys are just great. Owning a European car, even a VW, usually means you get used to getting ploughed on repairs. Not so here. These guys are very laid back, very honest, and very reasonable in the price department. They also know VWs backward and forward. Everyone I met seemed to take time to cultivate a personal relationship with me, rather than take my money and show me the door.
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Review from Kimmy H.
Austin, TX
10/6/2011
They are the nicest auto repair guys I've ever seen. We had some problem with a radiator and could not pass an inspection due to this problem. With only a few days left before the vehicle license renewal, they took us in, fixed on time, and even gave a ride to DMV on a rainy day so that we could do everything on time! Awesome people!
When you go into their office, you will see so many thank you letters that people have written. I am one of them! -
Review from Przemek D.
Austin, TX
1/6/2012
I want to give them more stars!
These guys make me want to buy a VW just so I can take it there.
We took my fiancee's new beetle because we needed to get the horn fixed in order to pass the state inspection for a ticket dismissal. We also told the mechanic who helped us out (Adam) that we had a mirror someone broke (it was really the bracket). We asked them to look into if so they could just quote us how much it would cost, etc. We left the car there for a couple of days. We got the call, the price for the repair wasn't unreasonable for the horn repair. When we got there we were just expecting the horn issue to be resolved, instead they fixed the horn, fixed the mirror, scraped the old inspection sticker, and we had some issues with acceleration we didn't even mention that somehow disappeared!
THESE GUYS ARE THE BEST! LOVE THIS PLACE!
Afterward we had to go to a nearby shop to get the car inspected as they don't do it there, and we forgot about a hole in the front turn signal from a few months ago so they inspection place told us the car wouldn't pass. We took the car back to VeeDub to see if they had the part. Well, they didn't have one in stock, so they quickly fixed it right there on the spot by getting another lens mounted from another old bug. They didn't even charge us!
Seriously, if every mechanic/repair facility was like this, everyone would love taking their car in for repairs.
These guys rock! -
Review from Miranda W.
Austin, TX
Updated - 5/21/2011
So I had to take my 2002 Passat, Lucille, (yes I have named her...she's my baby) back to Darryl last week. While I wasn't thrilled about dropping a ger to get her fixed up, I am thrilled with the results. She is running like a champ! D reminded me that she's getting to the age where she's going to "nickel and dime" me (90K miles) but if these guys are around...and she's still my baby...I'll happily keep doing what it takes to keep her happy.
Love you VEEDUB!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/12/2010
Yesterday, I took my '02 Passat into the Hewlett VW dealership in Georgetown to have a headlight… Read more »
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Review from Steven N.
3/24/2011 5 Check-ins Here
I am a fan of Austin VeeDub for the huge junk yard they have behind the shop. You can go back and rummage through junked cars and try to find various random parts for you car.
On numerous visits I've replace metal brackets, my oil filler cap, a dashboard air-conditioner vent, window regulator parts and more.
Prices on used parts seem a little high sometimes - especially if you went out and found the part and pulled it from the junk cars yourself. but it's not crazy high as compared to new replacement parts.
Service-wise, I've only had a few things fixed here and I've found the service manager and techs to be reasonable. They did verbally underquote me on my last service which I wasn't excited about, but I understood the mistake.
It takes a lot for me to really trust a mechanic, but these guys are on the right path. -
Review from Kimberly K.
Austin, TX
10/17/2010
Not just for VW owners...
I am a fan and have never even owned a VW. If I had a VW though, visiting Austin VeeDub would be a no-brainer.
WHY VISIT AUSTIN VEEDUB...?
Going out of town - The location makes it easy to drop off before a trip out of town even if the car just needs some average maintenance. When you return, your car is maintained/repaired, you did not pay to store it in some skeevy airport lot, and you just take a cab to the shop and then drive home. Easy.
Repairs - they will search the intarwebz for the best deals on the parts you need and they are transparent about passing those savings on to you. A friend was in a crazy accident and they handled all mechanical issues as well as bodywork. In the end, no one could tell the car had been in a wreck. They repaired my old Ford Exploder and later a Lexus Sedan and did a great job on both
Selling a car - If you have a car to sell and do not want to deal with the worry of a stranger driving off in your car, they will handle the sale. I think it cost me $250 for them to have my car on their lot, show it, and sell it... for the price I was asking. (When a big dealership is not doubling the price for their own profit, cars sell quickly because they are quite reasonably priced.) Yes, they helped determine the price, but ultimately that was my choice. They provide a letter revealing the bill of health of the auto... you never even have to meet the new owner. Sold.
Buying a car - see "Selling a car." Prices are reasonable. Remember, dealership or the used car lot is not getting an outrageous sum to handle the deal. VeeDub is providing a service and they make sure it is not a lemon before offering it.
Austin VeeDub, not just for VeeDub owners anymore.Listed in: Good Carma Bad Carma
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Review from Deji M.
10/13/2010
When my Jetta starts fretting, my broken heart expresses sadness in short Clue-like sentences. The Jetta, in the garage, with the turbo. Or: the Jetta, in the driveway, with the air conditioner. A little part of my soul dies each time, and the proper authorities need to be summoned.
In the most recent malfunction mystery, the air conditioning had been done in, again. I had brought the suspect vehicle into Austin VeeDub back in May and had the compressor replaced. This addressed the AC issue while simultaneously squeezing the ever-loving life out of my pocket - but less so than other businesses had estimated. It had been suggested by another repair place that some fans also needed replacing. Lies. Austin VeeDub saved me at least $200, easy.
This second time with the AC was more like payback. I returned from a trip to find it non-operational, as if to say "thanks for leaving me alone for 2 weeks. This is what you get." I called Darryl, and speculated it might be hot flashes and not the car's problem. He assured me it was not hot flashes, and suggested I bring the car in.
After a few hits and misses and scheduling catastrophes patiently managed by Darryl, I dropped off the patient/perpetrator. A day later, the team had conducted countless diagnoses to determine the freon was missing, there were no discernible leaks, and other mechanical mishaps shouldn't be causing the problem again. Therefore... free of charge... the AC was fixed. They even moved a few things around the get the passenger-side air working again. Lucky passenger.
Talk about accommodating. Not only could I drop off the car during the weekend/over night, I could've also paid over the phone and picked it up at my leisure, if paying was in the cards. But paying was not in the cards for me, dear car-aficionados. Rather, love was in my future. Love of a working AC. Love of your fellow man. Love for Austin VeeDub. And that Darryl cracks me up, too. -
Review from Happy O.
Austin, TX
1/17/2011
This is the only place you should go to if you have a Volkswagen. I came across this place after calling the local Volkswagen dealership for a repair and almost choking on my breakfast taco after hearing what they wanted to charge me to replace my A/C. After an exhaustive internet search I arrive at the joint to be relieved that I will be paying 1200 smack-a-roos less than the dealership.
Now this place is out there and if you do not know east Austin, ask someone because your GPS will lead you astray.
If you own a VW, Audi, Porsche, Volvo, BMW, Mercedes Benz, or Saab this is the first place you should call for a repair. -
Review from Jen B.
Austin, TX
10/15/2010
Usually I try not to go along with the crowd, but when the people are right, they are right.
I have been in Austin nearly 2 years, and have been avoiding having maintenance done on my car since it is always an inevitable (and expensive) hassle. The yelp reviews, and name of the place were enough for me to give it a try and damn glad I did.
Darryl, is a more than friendly and helpful guy, who sets you up in service. He goes out of his way, tells you what you do AND DON'T need, keeps you up to date with the progress of your car, and even follows up! Man, as a Volkswagen owner for over a decade I know that:
#1 General "drive-thru" car maintenance places won't have the right parts.
#2 Once they have it, it will take them awhile to figure out how to get it into the car.
#3 It will cost you, a lot.
Vee Dub is fair, and literally know the mechanics of what they are dealing with, and for sure have my business from here on out.. You ladies know, loyalty to a trusted mechanic and to the right hair dresser are things not taken lightly. :) -
Review from Russ P.
Austin, TX
12/18/2010
I've been taking my car to these guys for about a year and a half and they are great. For example, on one occasion, they were able to repair a broken light assembly for about $250 that would have cost more than $1000 for the dealership to replace. Another time they charged me almost nothing to fix a malfunctioning sensor on my convertible top. Yet another time, I called and described my problem and they told me to take it to the dealer because they thought it would be covered by a recall and be fixed for free (which it was!). These guys are straight up honest and great to deal with.
Also, as others have mentioned, they are on the way to the airport and will give you a ride to the airport after you drop off your car. I have found this to be super handy. -
Review from Joe D.
Austin, TX
8/4/2011
Honest and open. Will try to save you money. Great work. Quick turnaround. Wifi, AC waiting room. By the airport, you can drop it off before you leave, and pick it up on the way back. Austin Veedub is perfect when your car isn't.
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Review from Jennifer A.
Austin, TX
4/7/2010
I'm a Austin VeeDub fan- I wear their t-shirt proudly! I've had just about every kind of repair done for my sweet little 2001 Beetle and she purrs like a kitten now! (timing belt change/water pump, new wheels, head light sparkling, oil changes, transmission work, front end alignment, strut and arm bushings changed, new door panel installed)
The guys at AVD are very knowledgeable and don't treat me like a dumb chic just because I have no idea how a cars works. They answer all of my questions and are always polite even when they are super swamped. One time I was stuck at the shop and Darryl gave me a ride home! I live about 20 miles out of his way but he did it anyway- that's service!
Darryl is hilarious and always makes me smile with his witty sarcasm, even when I owe them a billion dollars for Rizzo's repairs! -
Review from Kristina H.
Austin, TX
Updated - 8/20/2009
Due to other issues with my car (bah! will it ever end?) I had to take it back to Austin VeeDub again this morning. I dropped it off around 8:30, checked it in with Darryl (does he ever get a day off?) and he said they'd take a look at it and give me a call.
He called me around 9:30 saying they had the diagnosis. Already? How are they so fast? He's still the extremely helpful Darryl that I remembered and said it would be ready around 1pm today for me to come and pick up.
Fast, friendly and honest. Just the way I like 'em.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/11/2008
If Yelp allowed me to give a 6th... heck... even a 10th star to just one review in my entire Yelp… Read more »
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Review from nate C.
Somerville, MA
4/25/2007
I would say that if you live in Austin and have a VW that this is the place to bring it.
My girlfriend and I are currently on a road trip from San Francisco to Panama City to Boston. We had made it all the way to Panama and back into the U.S. before we started having troubles with our car. And when it rains it pours, right?
On Friday, in San Antonio, we had trouble with our transmission. Luckily that got fixed for $20. But then on our way to Austin the next day we broke down again. We got towed to Austin Vee Dub. Being a Saturday we obviously had to wait until Monday to get it looked at.
We returned to the shop Monday morning. It is a huge operation which is a little confusing at first. They have the regular shop, then a separate shop to do oil changes and other regular maintenance, a used parts department, and the best waiting room you can imagine. The waiting room has free WI-FI, T.V., DVD player, and coffee maker.
Anyway, It took until like 3:00 and 400 something dollars to fix a leaking fuel pump. We took off and a few miles down the road we had the same problem again. They came and picked us up. The guy looked at it for a while and then had to leave when it was closing up.
He returned the next morning and got right to work on our van. We all had breakfast at a great taco truck that comes there every morning. By 12:00 it was all fixed and we were on our way a second time.
Our car ran better then ever and now we are in New York having had no other problems with the carListed in: Top Restaurants
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Review from Allison M.
Austin, TX
Updated - 9/30/2011
Just returned from another successful visit at Austin VeeDub. Darryl is the greatest. I went it because my car was shutting itself off unexpectedly. Darryl got me in on the same day for a scan/diagnosis, overnighted the part to the shop and had it fixed in less than 24 hours. All for less than $150. The diagnosis was completely free of charge.
While all that's great, I want to express that its not just about the work they did to my car (which is superb) but the fact that they really take care of their clients. Everybody (especially Darryl) that I've encountered at Austin VeeDub is exceptionally friendly and helpful. I feel like I've known them all for years, when I've only been here for a few months. I cannot recommend them enough!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/2/2011
Love them! I called in the morning and they got me in on the same day with a time that worked for my… Read more »
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Review from Jennifer G.
Austin, TX
7/7/2009
Thanks yelpers...i got my jetta serviced here yesterday.
Darryl quoted me two fare prices for an alternator. He had it replaced and ready to go within the day which saved me more dough on not having to keep my rental another day. And bonus, they cleaned my car for me!
Hopefully my car wont have any issues anytime soon (fingers crossed) but if it does i will be back to Austin VeeDub! -
Review from Allie S K.
Austin, TX
Updated - 7/16/2010
These guys are super accommodating if you need to have any thing fixed or looked at in a pinch!
The other day I had accidentally overlooked a parking block and my front bumper got snagged and starting to pull off! Yikes! Well I just called them up and Adam said that I can come on over and they can have a look. They reattached it and even strengthened it at the same time in less than 30 minutes! As well as gave me some advice for the future.
My GOLF and I are thankful to have these guys around!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/26/2010
Thanks to google and yelp I think I found the place to service my newly purchased VW Golf. When I… Read more »
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Review from pinksparkly s.
Austin, TX
4/5/2010
This is the ONLY place in Austin you should be taking your VW in for repair. I love my Beetle, but man, it's got problems. I recently took my car to the dealership for them to check things out a
Every time, Darryl is so kind and helpful. Even though they close at 5, he called me around 6 to let me know what was going on with my car. Now THAT is customer service!
And their prices are very reasonable....I paid $600 less at Austin VeeDub than I would have at Charles Maund. Yes. Six HUNDRED dollars LESS. -
Review from Craig M.
Crestview, FL
8/14/2011
I was on a trip from FL to NM when I noticed a persistent leak coming from my transmission. The car then started slipping and left me stranded in Austin, TX. Thankfully I found Austin Veedub!! They not only saved my transmission, but also fixed my catalytic convertor and exhaust leak too! My VR6 runs like a new car now. I want to give a special thanks to Adam and Darryl for the great communication! You guys will make it hard to take my car anywhere else.
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Review from Stephanie B.
Austin, TX
7/8/2011
I absolutely LOVE this place! Everyone is is friendly and they are not trying to take your last penny. These guys know their VW's old and new! I have a 2002 Jetta, had a 69 BUS and used the graveyard for everything with the BUS. My Jetta is only trusted to EO and why not HE'S HONEST! What??? An honest mechanic? YES they exist@ Austin VeeDub. The guys at the front, side and all over are so nice and don't think you're stupid for asking "stupid" questions. They also have parts for all makes and models if you think you're a good enough mechanic to do it yourself. AND if you do, you can ask them questions to help your fix it, and they answer you! Amazing RIGHT? Any-hoo..You will not be disappointed in these guys. They are your friend:)
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Review from Oscar D.
Austin, TX
3/3/2009
Do they sell "I love Darryl at Austin Vee Dub" Tshirts at the parts counter . Carrie?
Just Kidding!
anyway, Darryl is straight up with you no BS. It took a while to get me in , but when your car just dies and you tow it to a place with great service you might have to wait behind all the other happy customers. Compared to other options around town the price was much more reasonable and they let you know what you needed and not what you don't need.
I'll be back. -
Review from Michelle D.
6/18/2011
We have brought our '97 and '03 Jettas to VeeDub since 2004, when Dempsey was still the Service Manager. Even after we left Austin (first for Atlanta and now Toronto), we would have our regular service done on the '03 whenever we visited Austin in summer or new year's. Darryl, Adam, Mike and all the other techs have always been super. [I try to time my visits with the 10am taco truck, too.]
Someone here said Darryl treats women differently than he treats men. I don't think that's true; my partner is a big Darryl fan, too. Darryl does not treat women differently from men, but Darryl does treat women differently than any other mechanic or service manager I've ever dealt with. He doesn't explain things like you're a woman or can't understand cars. And that's probably why he gets such rave reviews from the women on Yelp. [Adam's great about this, too.]
As a teenager, I did oil changes and tune-ups on my Fiero, and now I'm a professor. But, I'm short, blonde, and often told I look younger than I am. I've had more mechanics and service managers than I care to recall try to feed me a bunch of bull or fail to adequately explain a repair. Darryl and Adam are both great about listening, answering questions, and explaining repairs, and are not condescending when they do.That's probably why they have so many female fans on Yelp. [They also don't suffer fools. And, yeah, you have to call back about your car because they are, well, super busy. I have to book my annual maintenance before I even hit the road toward Austin if I hope to have it done while I'm there. But I still do because I can trust these guys.]
I've also called Darryl from Atlanta or Toronto when I needed something done to one of the Jettas between Austin visits, and he's been willing to answer questions and tell me if the quote/repair suggested made sense given the symptoms. -
Review from Kirk W.
Austin, TX
2/17/2011
This is the most straightforward repair place I have ever visitied. I had been getting my '04 Touareg serviced at the dealer until I came across them. Less expensive and way more focused on being helpful, informative and convenient. Very upfront about how problematic the Touaregs are (sadly living this reality), about what they can work on and what they think should be done at a dealer due to complexity of the issue.
Nice to find an honest opinion that is ok with not doing the repair work if they don't think it should be done or refering you elsewhere if it's not their specific expertise. -
Review from Matthew H.
Austin, TX
11/24/2009
I've driven VW's for a while now - the last several cars I've owned were VW's, and I've grown attached to them. This means I've also been forced to acknowledge that they have issues and need repair.
Enter my recently purchased used Jetta who decided, spontaneously, to surpise me with a locked-up tensioner that melted my serpentine belt and then promptly exploded, sending jagged shards into my radiator. (I learned this battlefield analysis after having it towed to the garage)
It's hard to put my finger on exactly how to present this review. For the most part my experience with Austin VeeDub was a good one, and I briefly outline why it was...and why some parts weren't:
Pros:
The service team - they know their VW's and knew exactly what I was talking about when I mentioned the issues my Jetta. They were friendly and a solid group of guys.
Cons:
The office staff, the length of time it took to have information provided about my car, and the nit-picky wait I had picking it up.
I arrived on a Saturday morning to grab my car after learning that the somewhat pricey repair had all but tripled due to the previously mentioned radiator issue and it took almost an entire week to receive updates (most calls made to them were made by me asking about my cars status) and for the final repairs to be made. When I arrived there were no other customers - and the office was empty. Two people sat behind the counter, one of which I assume was only the parts guy and ignored me completely, while the other chatted on the phone to someone about parts for a VW van, ignoring me completely. I politely waited...and waited. Ten minutes past and he finally put down the phone - no apology was given for the wait, and he practically demanded to know what I wanted. When I asked for my car he vaguely found my file and seemed completely disinterested in the process, despite the fact I was dropping the equivalent of an entire paycheck for me on repairs. He called for the car to be brought out and I went to discuss the repair with Adam (?) in service.
Before I left my car I'd provided a serpentine belt (purchased when I attemped to fix the issue myself) and told them it was in the back seat. I learned it wasn't used, but Adam (?) was extremely helpful and explained they would give me a credit if I was unable to return the belt.
Satisfied, I went outside to wait for my car. And waited. And waited. Ten minutes later Adam saw I'd been standing outside for a while and came out to apologize and let me know they had to move some other vehicles first. The gentleman (didn't catch this guys name) they'd asked to get my car said he was doing it and disappeared. I waited again. And waited. He reappeared, but not with my car - he was talking with another customer and laughing and talking while he helped the new guy who'd arrived at least twenty minutes after I'd been told my car was being pulled out. Almost a half an hour after I'd paid for my car it was finally pulled around and I was able to go.
I was satisfied with the repairs and despite the bumps in communications, I was satisfied with how my car was handled...but I didn't appreciate the 'tude from the office or the excessive waiting when there weren't any other customers.
I will likely return with my car (knock on wood) if needing repairs, but I'll likely be more blunt about it.Comment from Edward M. of Austin VeeDub 11/24/2009
Thanks for the feedback! We appreciate the opportunity to… More » -
Review from Tina T.
Austin, TX
10/19/2011
The entire staff (Darryl, John, and everyone!) is exceptionally nice, generous and willing to answer any questions. Two years ago they priced my repair at half the cost of Charles Maund VW and ever since then I've been taking my car to Veedub. I'm so happy to have found an auto repair shop staff that I trust. Bring your car here now!
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Review from Mark C.
Austin, TX
11/4/2008
I was skeptical about taking my Jetta over to Austin Vee Dub. The reviews were just a little too cheery and positive. Mechanics don't naturally evoke this kind of response in people.
My initial experience with AVW was not terribly positive, that's why they've lost a star. I phoned to talk to someone about my Jetta's aircon and see how long and how much it would take to have it diagnosed. The first time I called, no one answered. The second time I called, I was transferred to service and no one answered. The third time I called, I got voicemail and left a message. No one called me back.
Finally, I got through to Adam. He informed me that half his staff had decided to take vacation all at the same time and it would take at least a week before they could even open the hood on my car. Luckily, I ride my scooter to and from work and could be without my car for a while.
The guys at AVW were able to find the problem in my air conditioning that 3 other mechanics couldn't track down and had it fixed... FIXED within the week. It wasn't cheap as chips, but it was definitely cheaper than what it would have cost me at the local VW dealer's service shop and they likely would have just created something else for me to fix down the road. (I didn't have problems with my air conditioning until I took my car to the Dealership last December.)
So, yes, these guys really do deserve the praise they get here. -
Review from Jamie W.
Los Angeles, CA
6/14/2010
The first time I met Darryl, before he even said hello, he took my keys and pulled off all my keychains and other keys and handed the key back to me and said, "Trust me, you should never ever have this much crap hanging from the ignition of a VW" From that first meeting until the day I leave, I will never take my car anywhere else.
When I was the victim of a hit and run, this is where I came.
When I was rear ended while parked in the LOT of AVD, the guys were on the rear ender like white on rice and had pictures taken and the estimate done before they even called to break the news. They let her camp while insurance companies fought and assessed and reassessed.
When my entire cooling system decided to give up on a Sunday in the middle of rural Arkansas in July, Darryl was who I called on Monday morning to ask what the HEYLL to do and why I should have nothing done where I was based on what the guy at the local garage told me. (NOTE TO NON VEEDUB MECHANICS IN ARKANSAS - if the belt were on backwards, the car wouldn't run)
And AVD is where I turned around and flatbed hauled my car behind the only U-Haul within 30 miles of where I broke down.
When my window stopped going up, when my brakes needed work and tomorrow morning when I will need someone to likely replace the battery, since she now won't start, I will once again call the number now on my cell's speed dial.
They don't take shortcuts, their prices are reasonable, they've accomodated last minute add-on work and they've told me I didn't need to have something done if I didn't.
Through all this, Darryl has been a peach. Yes, he makes fun of me practically living there, yes, he too refers to my car as the "Beetle from Hell" but he never makes me feel like an idiot for keeping my car, and he always explains what's wrong to me fully - including showing me the wrongs that have been done to my car by other mechanics and why.
Besides, he dishes as good as he gets from me in the sarcasm department and he lets me doodle on his whiteboard. He's an ace. They all are. Best garage I've ever been to, hands down. -
Review from Charles H.
Austin, TX
2/5/2008
After being ripped off and disappointed everywhere else in Austin, I found Austin Vee Dub. My neighborhood mechanic was capably doing some minor work on my car, but didn't have the tools needed for a larger repair. He recommended Austin Vee Dub and I'll never go anywhere else. Since I just registered for yelp*, I wanted to spread the news after they did some work for me last week. Ask for the service manager "Daryl"...he's been there about 20 years. There's a funky waiting room with a couple of Apple computers and a TV w/ DVD if you have to stay out there (located off 183 by ABIA) and they have the "Statesman" delivered. Don't let the junkyard look fool you, this is the place to go.
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Review from Pam F.
Austin, TX
10/22/2007
Austin Vee Dub should be called Awesome Vee Dub. I recently moved here from Seattle, and was uncertain of where I should take my Jetta for some lovin. I took a chance and brought it here. I was very pleased with their service, i.e. my car was back into shape and the price was very reasonable. Last, but definitely not least, Daryl is a sweetheart and made me feel at home.
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Review from Erin L.
Austin, TX
8/8/2007
You know the story: Girl walks into the mechanic shop and her wallet gets taken for a ride. That is NOT the case here. I can not recommend these guys enough.
It's not much from the outside, but do not let that fool you. These guys have been around for a long time and they KNOW their stuff. They are also the nicest people.
I've used them a couple of times, one for body work and just today for a tune up/to check out the light that has been on for months in my VW Cabrio. I called at 10:30 and they told me to come on down. They have always been INCREDIBLY honest and straightforward with me telling me what NEEDS to be done, and what can wait a while. They always give you the option of new or used parts, and they're super upfront about which parts they're using. (No surprises when the bill comes either, they talk you through everything.)
Today, I pulled in at 11:00, they diagnosed my car and fixed it on the spot in about an hour. I sat in their cute little air-conditioned waiting room and surfed the internet and read the new Ikea catalog. Time flew by.
Now I'm on the road and my car is running great. They've saved my butt and I always feel good when I drive away. Not like I've been taken for a ride. Great, great place with exceptional customer service.
