Volkswagen Repair and Service in Athens, GA
Looking for Volkswagen repair in Athens, GA? Athens Import Auto Repair has worked on VW since 1991. From the old Beetle to the new Atlas, we know the brand.
Volkswagen service in Athens, from people who know the brand
A VW is a great car for students and families. UGA students bring us plenty of Jettas and Golfs. We keep the work honest and explain every step.
James Miner, the owner, earned ASE Master Technician status. He and Tony use the right scan tool for your VW. Call 706-353-3880 and tell us what is going on.
Models we see most
Common Volkswagen problems we fix
Timing chain tensioner failure
Older 2.0T engines in the GTI, Jetta and Tiguan used a weak chain tensioner. When it fails, the chain jumps. The engine then needs major work. A rattle for a second at startup is the clue.
Water pump and thermostat leaks
The VW water pump is plastic and bolts to the engine with the thermostat. It cracks and drips coolant on the ground. The low coolant light comes on. We install a new pump and thermostat.
Carbon on the intake valves
VW direct injection engines coat their intake valves with carbon. The engine idles rough and feels weak. It can also misfire when cold. We clean the valves by hand.
Coolant flange cracks
A coolant flange is a plastic pipe fitting on the engine. VW used many of them. They turn brittle and seep. We replace them with new parts and seals.
DSG mechatronic faults
The DSG is an automatic with two clutches. Its mechatronic unit is both the brain and the muscle. When it acts up, the shifts get jerky. Fresh fluid every 40,000 miles helps it last.
Ignition coil failure
VW ignition coils fail more than most. A bad coil makes the engine miss and shake. The check engine light will flash. We replace the bad coil and check the plugs.
Volkswagen services we offer
Timing chain and belt service
Chains and tensioners on the 2.0T. Timing belts on the older 1.8T and TDI.
Learn moreCooling system repair
Water pumps, thermostats, flanges, hoses and radiators for your VW.
Learn moreDSG and automatic service
Fluid and filter changes for DSG and standard automatics. Mechatronic testing too.
Learn moreCheck engine light
Misfires, coil faults and sensor codes read with the right scan tool.
Learn moreVW oil change
The right spec oil for your engine. We check the coolant while we are in there.
Learn moreMaintenance
Filters, fluids, brakes and inspections on the VW schedule.
Learn more
Why Volkswagen owners choose us
Decades of VW work
We have fixed air cooled Beetles and the latest Tiguan. Few shops in Athens can say that.
Student friendly
We know a lot of VW drivers are at UGA. We explain things in plain words and never push extra work.
Tools that fit the car
We use the right scan tool for Volkswagen. That means real answers, not guesses.
James has been here for 25 years and knows how to fix your issue with your import. Honest and took really good care of my mini cooper.
Carpenter, K., customerVolkswagen repair FAQ
Do you work on Volkswagen in Athens?
Yes. Volkswagen is a brand we see all the time at Athens Import Auto Repair in Athens, GA. Jetta, Golf, GTI, Passat, Tiguan and Atlas are all welcome. We have worked on VW since 1991.
Why is my VW check engine light flashing?
A flashing light means the engine is misfiring. On a VW the cause is often a bad ignition coil. Stop driving hard and bring it in. We can find the bad coil fast.
Why does my VW smell sweet after I drive?
A sweet smell is coolant burning off a hot part. The water pump or a coolant flange is likely leaking. We pressure test the system to find the exact spot.
Does my VW need a timing belt or a timing chain?
It depends on the engine. Older 1.8T, 2.0 and TDI engines use a belt that must be replaced on time. Newer 2.0T engines use a chain. We can tell you which one your car has.
How often should I service a VW DSG transmission?
Every 40,000 miles is the rule for most DSG gearboxes. Fresh fluid and a new filter keep the clutches and the mechatronic unit healthy. We do this service in house.
Is a Volkswagen expensive to keep?
Not if you stay ahead of it. Regular oil changes and coolant checks stop most big problems. We will help you plan the work so nothing catches you by surprise.
Other brands we service
Let's take a look at your Volkswagen
Call 706-353-3880 or book your visit today. We will get your VW running the way it should.
Open Monday to Friday, 8 am to 6 pm. After hours, leave a message or send the form and we will call you back.
Send us a message
Tell us your car and what you notice. We will call you back during shop hours.
If the form does not show, call 706-353-3880.