cost of an air intake replacement on Beetle

What exactly is the component that has failed? The mechanic's explanation is vague. Is it the Air Pump, the Check Valve? I can't see what would cost $740 in a Secondary Air Injection System on a VW and I have worked on several. I do Emissions work in California on this stuff every week. Why not get a second opinion? Also, ask for the EXACT code, and ask for the name of the exact component that has failed. This sounds too vague to me.

Just like Dan said, we need more information about what parts are they want to replace? What trouble codes are present? There is a shop near you, Indian Trail Imports, I can give you their phone# . They are specialized on imports, ask a second opinion. Zee