80k Service for the Ol’ GTI Has Arrived

July 23, 2009 – 7:53 am by Dan Volkens
Filed under Car Care, Volkswagen Golf, Volkswagen GTI

Surprisingly, it only took a couple searches to come across the guys at AUTO4N. In the past it’s been extremely difficult to find the type of shop I came across in them: specializing in VW/Audi and the like, small and locally owned, and just a good group of guys. According to a whole bunch of positive reviews on their website, they’re genuinely warm and friendly, detailed and communicate very well, and may even offer you a bite of their lunch if you come in at the right time. :D

Anywho, I dropped off my GTI this morning at their shop to have the 80k service done, which is yet another one of those massive service intervals that cost a boatload of money but consists of mostly checks and top-offs. Regardless, there are a couple items on the list I’d rather not tackle myself like checking the timing chain and belts, etc. etc.

As I stepped through the entrance, both Mike and Chad were at the service counter. And as the reviews said, they were friendly and made sure I knew what they were going to look over and repair. They also would be sure to give the GTI a good once-over, since this is the first time they’ve seen the car, and note any other items that need to be taken care of in the future.

So, fingers crossed. Oh, pricing. I was quoted $432.50, which is just about inline with the dealer’s quote. But if AUTO4N provides superior service, I’ll be sticking with them. I have strong confidence in them based on their reviews as well as my own bit o’ experience so far. I’ll follow up with another post on the results later on!

For reference, here’s the 80k service for a 2003 VW GTI VR6 24v:

• Engine Oil – change
• Engine Filter – change
• V Belt/Ribbed Belt – check tension/condition
• Spark Plugs – replace
• Air Cleaner – replace filter
• Windshield Washer Fluid – check level
• Automatic Shift Lock – check operation
• Brake System – check damage/leaks, pad thickness, fluid level
• Wheels – rotate from front to rear
• Air Bag System – check function/damage
• Battery – check electrolyte level
• Engine – check for leaks
• Pollen Filter – replace
• Cooling System – check level
• Transmission – check for leaks
• Manual Transmission – check for leaks, Check Oil Level
• Tires/Spare – check condition
• Driveshaft – check boots
• On Board Diagnostics – check Diagnostic Trouble Code memory
• Door Hinge – lube
• Headlights – check and adjust if necessary
• Exhaust System – check for damage and leaks
• Sunroof Frame – clean and lubricate
• Road Test – check system functions during and after
• Power Steering – check fluid level
• Automatic Trans. Fluid and Differential – Check for leaks / level. Add if necessary
• Front Axle – check dust seals, ball joints, tie rods
• Air Bag System, Visual check every 12 months regardless of mileage
• Brake Fluid, Change every 2 years regardless of mileage

80k Service for the Ol’ GTI Has Arrived
July 23, 2009 – 7:53 am by Dan Volkens