Testimonials
SEE WHAT OUR CLIENTS ARE SAYING 
James C.
Escondido CA

This is the place to go for VW repair in North County. After almost getting scammed in El Cajon at an unnamed shop, (I'll be writing a review for them as well, if you're curious), I drove all the way to Escondido to have Tim do my work for me. I remembered him from a few years back when I tore my oil pan open (twice!) and didn't have the money to have it professionally fixed. Tim got me those oil pans both times so I could have my father do the work. He was not greedy about it either. I know he didn't make much from those deals because he sold them to me for far less than I could find them anywhere else, but he was gracious and went ahead and did the phone work in ordering the part for me each time.

So, upon discovering that my oil pan was cracked AGAIN, I was going to have it replaced where I was doing my oil change - they told me I absolutely could not drive it away since it would be spraying oil out everywhere (which it DID NOT) - so I agreed to leave my car with them for a certain price. I signed for that price and that's what I expected to pay. But when the owner called the next day to tell me that it would be substantially more, well, I decided to go to Kotter's. So, I drove my car, which did not spray oil out everywhere, to Escondido, and Tim had it done before the day was over, even though he had two cars (that I knew of) ahead of me. 

In summary, he did it for the same price the guys quoted me at the other place, and he did it quick! He's a friendly guy who's not greedy or underhanded, ya know, like you find almost everywhere else, and the dude knows his VW's. I had a chance to chat with him a bit and I just need you guys to know that he's the real deal. He loves Volkswagens and it shows. 

Trust him with your VW and you can thank me later :)

Mike W.
San Diego CA

I have an 06 TDI, Kotters VW keeps my car running great at an affordable price. They recommend what is needed and when so I can keep my car running well without any break downs. With 175K miles on my car and the fact that I drive about 20K a year it is important for me to keep my TDI running good and dependable. I would recommend and trust this repair shop to any VW owner.

MHS S.
Rancho Santa Fe CA

I have a 1972 VW Bus and Tim Kotter has been working on this car for at least 20 years! Always did the right repairs at the right price...Highly recommend this place.

Consumer B.
San Diego CA

I just had my 3 VW's serviced at Kotters, two Jetta TDI's and a 1978 VW Bus. Tim Kotter is thorough and backs his work. I'll keep going back.
 
Robert E.
Monterrey CA
I have had Kotters do work on our 1990 VW Westy. Each time the work was done on time and for the price quoted. These guys know Vanagons. I trust them.

Connie N.
Escondido CA

I have been taking my '89 VW Westphalia camper to Kotter for at least 10 years. They have been able to diagnose and solve every problem that I have thrown at them. The car is running better now than when I first bought it in 1996. I have driven this car across the U.S. several times, up into Canada and down to the tip of Baja and would have no qualms about heading out on another long trip. If you have an older VW, you need to know about Kotter!
 
S.
Carlsbad CA

I just got my old VW Jetta back from Kotter and I have to say they did magic!
They fixed my dead AC with minimum $$ and right on schedule. I highly recommend them!
THANK YOU!
Ed B.
Escondido CA

Been with Tim Kotter for 4 years - best in the business - Keeps my 2001 Passat purring at 160,000 miles and counting - I know it will be done right - I have complete confidence in his work - lucky if you are 1 of his costumers - All the best!
 
Asaph T.
Escondido CA

Great service! The owner is knowledgeable and trustworthy. I have had only positive experiences whenever I have had to bring my VW in for service.
 
Greg O.
Escondido CA

This one is a no brainier ! I have an 82 rabbit pickup called a caddy and so does tim with the same type aftermarket larger diesel motor ( economic ) I am on a tight budget and sometimes do my own maintenance but I have my limits and the guys at kotters never fault me for it they fix my screw ups :-) they can do the stuff I wouldn't dare try and its always reasonably priced done quickly and they have the knowledge of where to find what I need for me even if I don't pay them to install it . They make me feel like a valued cared about customer Instead of a mechanically challenged obstacle in their way that needs to pay up, shut up, and get out of their way. Wish a lot of other places would treat me like a customer instead of a lacky who's in the way. Go see them for any reason and see if you don't wind up as biased as I now am.
 
Loren J.
San Marcos CA

Personal service from someone who genuinely cares. Super cute vw collection!
 
KT S.
San Diego CA

I have been going to Kotter's now for about 3 years. I don't taking my car in to just anyone, if possible, I like to repair things myself. I found Kotter's on a VW forum and from the reviews, I thought they looked pretty good. I went in, knowing what I wanted done and what the costs were at other places for both part and service. They quoted about 30% less, which surprised me right off the bat, especially for Bosch parts. I figured, since I needed the stuff done and the price was right, I would take it in. The guys were really nice, I got the car back in one day and everything was perfect. 
    I have gone back on many different occasions, my car is up to 200,000 these days; so maintenance is just part of the deal. They have replaced a clutch, belts, brakes you name it and each time I call, the price is right, the service is awesome and the guys are still friendly each and every time. I would highly recommend them to anyone with a VW. I have been in a pinch many times, and just called to bouncing possible issue off of them and every time they are spot on just spitballing with me. I am pretty loyal now. I moved further away but still make the 60 mile round trip to bring the car in for stuff, haven't been burned yet don't figure I will ever be.
 
Norm P.
Escondido CA

Have known of Kotters VW for 13 years. We have VW's and have had them worked on here several times. So have other family members. I like the owner. Even though I have an older 1987 VW Diesel Rabbit Truck, he still treats it great. He has done several repairs quickly and keeps in his quotes.
Never had a problem with the guy. His tech knows a lot too.
Wouldn't bother going anywhere else. Hope he stays around awhile.
 
Joseph M.
San Marcos CA

I had taken my 2002 Passat to several Volkswagen specialists before a friend of mine referred me to Tim Kotter. He was very responsive. Never had a single issue with getting ahold of his shop. (or him for that matter) He by far had the best customer service and pricing out of any VW specialist. He was able to diagnose my check engine light issues with ease. Ive been using him for a while now and i never have to worry about leaving his shop and seeing my check engine light come on the next day like all the other VW mechanics ive dealt with that take a couple tries to diagnose issues. Kotter does it right the first time it will get it back to you the next day. Ask any of the VW owners in the area Kotter is the one to go to.
 
Ian R.
Santa Ana CA

After being pratically robbed at the VW dealer a few years ago, I decided to give Kotter's a try. Seeing that they had been in businees for more than 20 years and specialized in Volkswagen, I figured they must be doing something right. This was my 5th time taking my wife's 2003 Jetta for repairs at Kotter's and, as usual, it was a very pleasant experience. I had a problem with noise in the front suspension after installing struts (on my own) and they were able to figure out the problem quickly and very affordably. If you have a VW and are looking for an excellent alternative to the dealer you need to give these guys a try!

Eric B.
Poway CA

If you're looking for a VW shop that is both honest and true VW experts, then look no further than Kotter VW and owner Tim Kotter. I have taken my Jetta TDI to Tim for over six years now and have always received excellent service at a reasonable price. Tim is not only friendly and easy going, he is extremely honest and takes the time to tell you what repairs are needed and why. You can rest easy that you are dealing with an honest and ethical mechanic.I HIGHLY recommend Tim and Kotter VW. I can say without hesitation that if you are looking for a top VW shop then you need to give Kotter VW a try. 

Gary F.
Carlsbad CA

Kotter Volkswagen has to be one of the best places to take your VW for repair and maintenance. Tim Kotter is truly an honest person that provides you with great service at the most reasonable price. We have taken our "baby", a 1989 VW Cabriolet to Kotter for the past few years and find them to be very reliable in keeping this vintage car in the best of operational condition. Our VW is in excellent condition, so it is very important for us to have someone we trust that will treat the car as though it was brand new. Tim and his staff have done this, and more. We moved to Southern California 13 years ago, used both the VW dealer in Carlsbad as well as other VW service facilities and none have come close to Kotter's!I would recommend Kotter VW Service over any and all in the North County area.

Mike L.
San Marcos CA

Alternator and PCV hose done, the car runs great. I picked it up this morning. Parts were about right on price, you might be able to find them cheaper elsewhere. Labor wasn't bad for at least a 1/2 day's work. I stand by my review and will be back at some point to do front struts. Thanks guys!

Peter H.
Escondido CA

Tim and his team found the electrical problem in a few hours. The previous mechanic I took my car to worked on my car for 2 and a half days but still couldn't find the problem. I like the fact that Tim keep me informed on every step that would cost money and what my options were. He did not surprise me with a big bill, but surprised me with a consistent honest and professional car repair service. If you need an expert I highly recommend Kotter's VW. Kotter's VW is professional and affordable. Tim and his team really fixed my car's electrical problem. I'm very happy with the service Kotters gave me. Tim is one of the most honest mechanics I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. 

Wanda T.
Escondido CA
My car is jetta1999 i don' t known what happen the car. The car didn't start, so I towed my car to an auto repair. Took 2 days and it still did not get the car run. So again I towed my car to Volkswagen repair by Kotters Mr Tim just took 2 hours and he found the problem and fixed it very quick and fast and good. I 'm very happy! I recommend who owns a Volkswagen if you have any problems you should come to this shop. Tim will give you an answer and will take good care of your car.

Ben A.
Escondido CA 
Kotter's VW is *THE* place to take your VW - these guys know what they're doing, treat their customers well, and provide you with honesty and prices that you probably won't get at a dealership!

Tim Kotter has tons of experience with VW's (30+ years?), and it's clear that he's passionate about his work. He's willing to explain the repairs to you, step-by-step, and even show you the parts that he worked on/fixed, so you understand what was done. Kotter's is also willing to accommodate your work schedule (drop the car off in the morning, pick it up after work, etc.), and very good about alerting you to questions/concerns that come up during the repair.

Bottom line: effective, fast, knowledgeable service, and great customer care. Highly recommended!

Wally P.
Escondido CA

It is difficult to find a vintage Volkswagen repair shop . Tim Kotter has been repairing Volkswagens for the 30 years . Tim's only employee , "Robert" , also has several years experience in both air cooled and water cooled Volkswagens . This is a two man shop with a personal touch . You talk with the person who does the work . They will show you and let you walk into the shop and explain any issues . No double talk from a "service writer" like at larger facilities . Please feel confident that "Kotter's" will do the job right the first time . They will stand behind their work ,, They are not happy unless you are ! ,, I would recommend "Kotter's" in a heart beat ,, Wally Pelton

Karyn H.
Escondido CA

We have been taking our older Rabbit diesel pickup to Tim for years. He has rebuilt the heads on it once and did a great job in a fast amount of time.even though my truck is very old and worn out, I love it. Tim treats it like it is a new vehicle and is very respectful.I wish more mechanics were as helpful and honest as Tim. He give me all the information about what is happening with my truck and lets me decide. His pricing is always fair and he gets me back on the road in no time!
Thanks Tim. Hope you stay around for a while!

Jeff G.
Escondido CA

I have been going to Kotter's ever since I got an itch to buy a classic VW bus. He has kept it running until I gave it to my Daughter. It has got her through High School and it will get her through College. I've always found Tim to be honest and fair with his pricing. He has always made an effort to get my vehicle in and repaired in a timely manner. We are lucky to have this shop in Escondido and it is a comfort to know my Daughter has a mechanic that won't rip her off.

Pat L.
San Diego CA

My 2008 Passat 2.0T sedan was acting like my '08 Passat 2.0T wagon did when it needed the starter replaced. That was replaced at the dealer under warranty-this would come out of my pocket! So I had the guy at O'Reilly's auto parts test the battery-seemed okay. Took it to the VW dealer and asked for a quick battery check. They wanted me to leave it and said "it probably needs a starter like your wagon did-be a little over $500". I mentioned this to a business associate who told me about Kotter's VW Service. He has been using Kotter's for over 10 years. I called Kotter's and got a quote about 30% less than the dealer's. Took it to Kotter's and it was just the battery. Talk about honest! They could have sold me a battery and a starter! There are no "service consultants" (really salesmen) at Kotter's like there are at all the dealers and most independent repair shops. Only 2 guys work there and they are both mechanics-Tim Kotter and Robert. They only work on VW's so they won't waste your time or your money researching and learning about your VW-they are already experts! I live and work in Pacific Beach but it was well worth the drive to Kotter's in Escondido!

Alex S.
San Marcos CA

I bought an older VW TDI that i knew needed a lot of work. I was on a budget and shopping around between a few local shops (and no I didn't even consider the stealership). Kotter's did some work for me a few years back and the quality was good but I didn't care for the price so, to save a few bucks, I bought a timing belt kit from Diesel geek and asked for a quote to install. Folks gave me a great quote, same day service (with appt) and even pointed out my next projects I would have to tackle to get this car worthy of long trips. Now that's good service. Overall a great experience. I would recommend Kotter to friends and family.

Dave L.
Escondido CA

I'm a little overdue on this but all I can say is "Thanks Tim!" I bought my 2009 Jetta TDI and shortly after started having issues with the glow plug light coming on intermittently. Took it back to the stealership I bought it from and they sent it to the local VW Dealer in El Cajon to troubleshoot, at which point (after having it for 3 days)they said my Fuel Pump needed to be replaced and wanted $1500.00 for the repair. I decided to live with it as it wasn't covered under the 12/12000 power train warranty provided by the dealer. It also wasn't happening all that often and was something I could live with.

It started happening more often so I finally took it to Tim. His initial troubleshooting actually pointed to the fuel rail and possibly the sender at the end. He also noted that the previous owner had not done any of the major maintenance and so the timing belt was overdue for replacement as I was over 108K. As Tim was ordering the parts for the work, he contacted the VW Dealer in Escondido, which happens to be owned by the same company as the one in El Cajon. The VW dealer wouldn't sell him one and said that if it was the fuel pump they would cover it 100% as there had been issues on the TDI and VW Corporate wanted to handle all repairs. It turns out that when Tim replaced the fuel rail that was actually the problem. Now I have a little insurance policy if the fuel pump does go. This saved me a good chunk of money that I was not ready to spend.  

I am thankful that Tim and his crew are honest and have great integrity. They finished the job quickly. I have been more than happy with the outcome and will return there from now on. I've already recommended them to a co worker that bought a TDI recently. I Wish they worked on Kia as well, mine would be there every time it needed to be. I am happy to have found a real honest business that I know I can trust with my car here in Escondido not very far from my home.

Adam O.
San Diego CA

My 2005 VW Golf had a coolant leak. Kotter replaced the pump, AND my timing belt, AND my plugs, AND my oil filter, AND did a 40k service for only $900!!!! The dealer wanted $1000 just to replace the timing belt. I am amazed at the value they provide and will be taking my VW there for the rest of my life. I cannot recommend enough - these people know the particulars of VWs and will do great work for a great price.Always take my 71 VW bus in whenever I have a problem. They get the job done right so I won't have to go back in again. Since I've last been there a few months ago my bus has been running smoothly. They are the only place I'll take my VW in.

Joe P.
Encinitas CA

I just found out about Kotter's VW about two months ago while taking a 91 Westfalia that I was looking to purchase for a Pre-Purchase Inspection (owner recommended I take it there). Tim has been in business for over 30 years and it's basically a two man team getting all of the work done which is usually in one-two days. It's amazing to see and appreciate since his lot is always full with all sorts of old VW's ready for fixing. I love the fact that he will be working on your car and talking you through the process with a no non-sense approach coupled with honest and accurate estimates. While looking for another Westfalia, I took our 82 Westfalia to Kotter's for a tune-up before selling where he was the only shop (out of four) in North County to correctly diagnose & fix the problem with lack of power due to a faulty CA dual Vacuum Canister. Two weeks ago, our family purchased an 87 Westfalia and took it to Tim to have him fix an idling problem. Job was done in one day and priced out accurately. Westfalia's & Vanagon's are tough to properly diagnose and not every shop can get the job done right. To sum up, Kotter's is one of the best shops in North County to bring Westfalia's & Vanagon's to have work done honestly & accurately with a quick turn-around time.











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