I read the review on line about Craigs Car Service IN Lucas It also states they work on VWs. I've learned a good lesson from this experience. I took my 2001 Jetta to Craigs' to have the alternator replaced. I knew it was the alternator and I had replaced it 10 years ago. When I received a call from Craig's the rep told me the mechanic said he would have to drop the engine to get the alternator. That was my hint they DON'T have experience with VWs and or Jetta. I gave them the benefit of the doubt and had them replace the alternator and they did a good job after I told them I replaced the alternator myself and I did not have to drop the engine. The front of the engine is exposed when the front end bolts are removed and the front panel swings out to expose the internal parts, A/C compressor, alternator, Water pump etc. $900 and alternator was replaced. The Jetta runs. HOWEVER, the mechanic used plastic ties to secure the plastic cover which protects the bottom of the engine and fan housing. I didn't realize this until I notice it hanging from below the Jetta. I returned to Craig's and they said they removed the ties and installed with screws and clips. Hmm? The holes are predrilled hence why the clilps? Only certain VW screws will fit in the predrilled holes which hold the plastic cover to the bottom of the engine. Ok coming home and driving down my ally and proceed to my house I found my Plastic bottom engine cover in the ally! SO YOU BE THE JUDGE. THESE ARE NOT MECHANICS. PLASTIC TIES REALLY! I CAN NOT RECOMMEND THEM FOR VW JETTAs. I WILL NEVER USE THEM AGAIN NOR RECOMMEND THEM.
Hi Michael, I have tried calling you and Martin had said you and him had spoken and we're bringing it by so we can make this right for you. The old plastic shield like so many on volkswagens (if you own one you know how low to the ground they are and are easily torn from bottoming out during normal driving.) had previous rub marks and was not being held by it's original screws any longer. The technician did attempt to help by securing what was there as good as possible. From the sound of your note here that did not hold and I sincerely apologize for all your inconvenience. . I would have liked for them to have had you come in and see the old damage before lowering the car after the alternator repairs to ask if we could replace the cover with a new one. Their thought process was to try and save you money and make the cover last but even the best intentions can fail at times and this is one of them. The Technician feels very badly and started with us in 2005 and has been a very successful,honest and well respected employee. I have revisited with the whole staff to notify any customer that comes in for a repair, but also has other previous cosmetic damage that may cause a problem later and to seek authorization from the customer to 1. Use new parts to make this repair or 2. Advise and seek authorization to make a temporary repair if it can be done safely and with a reasonable amount of expected success it will hold. I regret this took place and still am leaving an open invitation to allow us to make this right for you. I enjoyed our original conversations on the phone when you had told me about the time in the past when you had done this alternator repair yourself and how involved it was to just replace an alternator. That conversation really made my whole day. :) Thanks and again I am trully sorry this took place and appreciate your telling me. Craig
- Craig's Car Care