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Question: I think I have a bad mechanic? Does this sound legitimate?

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Tired of Repairs, 2.0L 4 Cylinder, Los Angeles, CA, March 23, 2011, 11:18
 Rookie

So, I am having major issues with my 2001 VW beetle. Over the past 3 years, I have replaced the mass air sensor, coolent temp. sensor, knock sensor (twice within 3 years), timing belt, belt tensioner, roller, break caliber- front, and 4 coils. I'm sure there are more parts, I just can't remember them.
My car is acting up once again-- by the way, the second knock sensor and the 4 coils were replaced this past week. My mechanic is blaming on a "bad coincidence" that I picked up my car from his shop last night, drove it twice and then it wouldn`t start. It won`t even turn over, but the lights and radio are working fine, so it is not the battery. The mechanic is saying it is my starter that has gone out now. I have about 134,000 miles on it.
I don`t know what to do. Should I believe him? Is it really just a coincidence that this all happens with a new mechanic and all within 2 weeks? How much does a starter cost? I have already paid him over $700 for the coils and knock sensor.'.

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  • Answer #1

    ZeeTech March 23, 2011, 11:27
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     Master

    I have seen many VW Bugs with a LOT more problems than your car is having. They are not a well built, trouble free cars.
    You can always have the option to get a second opinion from another mechanic, however it seems these cars are turning into a money pit over 100K miles.

    Zee

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    mastertech6371 March 23, 2011, 11:28
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     Master

    first of all, if you have no cofidence in him, go somewhere else for another opinion.
    you can use our estimator tab at the top to get prices in your area for the starter.
    why did you replace all those sensors?? was there an issue at that time??

    Roy

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    Tired of Repairs, March 23, 2011, 11:34
     Rookie

    Yes, there were multiple issues. At some points it was just my check engine light and those sensors are what they determined needed to be changed. Other times my brakes were not working right, and still at others my car wouldn't accelerate properly. Do you think it is the starter? Or should I just take it to someone else to make sure.. it is at his shop now.

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    ZeeTech, March 23, 2011, 13:57
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     Master

    If the problems were repaired correctly by him than stay with him. It seems that he fixed the problems. Timing belt and brakes are regular maintenance and wear items anyway.
    And yes, it could be the starter.

    Zee

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  • Answer #3

    Pacific German from Pacific German, March 28, 2011, 12:02
     Enthusiast

    Call me up, I can help

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