Practicing Vanthropology through Vanagon mechanics.

Nathan Ryobi Daigle is trained both in the automotive industry and academically in anthropology. Anthropologists approach issues in a holistic manner by taking into account how systems work together as a unified whole. ​Our van services take a holistic approach in maintaining your vehicle. It's how we bring your rig to it’s full potential. VIVID VANS is rated 5 stars on Google.

• Vanagon inspection. $200.00
• We offer the most comprehensive Vanagon inspection service in BC. We inspect all of your Vanagon's systems and create a detailed inspection report.

• Tune-up deluxe. $150.00 plus parts
• VIVID takes your van from a soggy 1, 2, or 3 to a 10. Performance tune-ups involve an evaluation of your vans fuel, air, water, and electronic systems. We identify deficiencies and correct them in a holistic manner. We restore reliability, fuel mileage, horsepower and sweet torque. The result is a happy van that runs like it did in the 80’s (early 90's).

• Mechanic services. $90.00 hourly
• ​​We are a VW specialized mechanic shop. Brakes, coolant system, suspension, exhaust, transmission, engine work. We keep vans running well. We help travellers get back on the road.

• Oil change. $100.00 including MANN filter and oil.
• Synthetic or Dino. We use the best quality oil for your van. We perform coolant, gear oil, automatic transmission, power steering, and brake fluid changes as well.

   

• Upgrades and accessory install. $90.00 hourly
• We have extensive experience in the installation of aftermarket bumpers, tire carriers, pop top lift assists, skylights, lighting and much more.

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• Westfalia pop top canvas installation. $600.00 (day rate)
• We take the roof off your van, clean up the mold inside your top, and install a fresh canvas for a happier van. We can provide either synthetic or acrylic canvas'.

 

• Solar panel installations. Please contact for quote
• Custom solar panel installation. We can provide the panels, or work with a system you already have.

   

• Insulation, and sound deadening. $600.00 - $1200.00.
• We exclusively use Dynamat, and 3M Thinsulate insulation and sound deadening in our projects. We remove your interior panels, install layers of deadening as required, and test drive the vehicle to verify quiet results.

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• VIVID trim package. $150.00
• Make your Vanagon shine with a VIVID custom tailored trim and stainless hardware package.

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• Bedlining service. $600.00 (day rate)
• VIVID works exclusively with Monstaliner to add rocker panel or doka bed protection to your rig. Liner comes in almost every colour to match your van.

  

• Engine conversions. $12,000 to $18,000.​
• VIVID VANS specializes in installing Subaru 2.2L, 2.5L, and 3.3L engines into Vanagons. we have extensive TDI and AAZ diesel experience as well. Now booking for spring 2019.

 

• Transaxle rebuild. $2,000.00 (2WD), $2,900.00 (4WD).
• We rebuild Vanagon transaxles both 2WD and 4WD Syncro. We use parts from Weddle industries/GoWesty and can install your transmission for you.

 

• Vanagon bodywork and paint. $9,000.00 to $12,000.00.
• We are currently painting 4 guinea pig van projects. Please come back in the spring for updates on this service.

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• Restorations. Syncro's and 2WD
• Every restoration we do is unique in terms of budget, function and style.

 

• Vanagon search. Please contact for pricing.
• Looking for a van in the great white north? We seek out, evaluate, and help import the vehicle of your fancy. Specializing in Westy's, Syncro's and Doka's.

 

• Consultations. Starting at $60.00/hr. Billed in 15 min increments.
• Inquiries always free.  Expert advice to help you build the vehicle of your dreams. We can work with you or your builder to make your project happen. We keep up with the exciting modern developments in the off-road racing and overlanding industries, so our information on hand is always fresh.​

All prices are in CAD Canadian dollars.

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A few examples of our services:

1990 Sea Foam Syncro

Our friend Mackenzie has a rad van. It's a 1990 sea foam coloured Syncro Westy. This surf rig is running a 2.5 Subaru engine and has too many upgrades to mention. We also diagnosed a vibration issue which turned out to be a worn prop-shaft. We rebuilt Mackenzie's Syncro transmission in winter 2019 due to a worn pinion bearing. Mackenzie's van is in great shape, but is still a Vanagon and therefore appreciates unconditional love, attention, and maintenance.

1986 Vanagon Westy

Lydia's westy was brought in limping by for a Tune-Up Deluxe. After whispering a few sweet nothings to the Digifant engine management system and some persuasion with the air intake system, we got her running strong and free. We also performed a general maintenance service on the van and let it go only when it was ready. This chameleon van is now ripping up ​the roads of Duncan, BC. Performing midwifery services throughout Cowichan Valley.

94 Eurovan Joker Hightop

When Kendra bought her cool and unique Eurovan Westfalia Joker, she discovered a host of electrical issues. We ironed out these electrical gremlins and helped get her rig back up to it's fullest camping potential. Follow along on her adventures with Penelope the van.

84 Vanagon Build

Lance brought his rig in for the VIVID VANS treatment. Lets just say we ended up doing a few things to this van:
Rocky Mountain Westy bumpers, rear swing away, and bullbar. Round to square LED light conversion. LED lighting throughout. BIG sound system. Monstaliner bedliner treatment. 16 wheel and BFG all terrain tire upgrade. Roof racks and pop top lift assist. T3 technique sway bar and fox shocks. Truck mirrors. VIVID trim. Terrawagen fender flares