We're moving from the Chicago area to Coeur d'Alene ID early next year. While I don't expect to ever need one (haha), I'm wondering if there are any good independent mechanics in the area?

 

Hopefully someone will chime in with an answer to your question, but in the meantime welcome to the area! Although I've only driven through on a couple of occassions, Coeur d'Alene is absolutely beautiful country.

 

I live not too far from Coeur d'Alene. For all my VW work I've always used Europro in Spokane, they do all European cars and I've been very happy with them. Also in Spokane is Eurohaus and Mechanic's Pride, both specialize in European cars including Jaguar. I haven't used either but have heard good things about both.

I would suggest visiting each and see who you are more comfortable with. Spokane is less than 10 minutes away. Be sure to check out the car gatherings in Harrison during the summer (I live a few minutes away). They are usually classic car gatherings but really any cool car is welcome.

 

Thanks. Saw most of those shops on the internet as well, so I guess I'll check them out.
Slightly OT: we are planning a drive from CDA to Portland ORand then down the coast in early February (not in the Jag, rather in the AWD Murano) I90 to 395 s to tri cities and the to Portland on I84. What kind of road conditions should I expect that time of year?

 

Most likely very good conditions, but that time of year you must be prepared for anything. If you have snow on the ground in northern Idaho you will probably have it most of the way to Portland (watch for ice in the Columbia Gorge), but the heaviest winter weather should be expected on the mountain pass over the Siskiyou mountains at the Oregon-California border on I-5. That being said, conditions on that pass can vary a great deal, from full blizzard to sunny, warm, and dry.

 

I agree with Swimref that if there is snow in north Idaho there is probably snow in other areas. Interstate 90 and Highway 395 are really well maintained. If its a fresh snow they usually are on the roads pretty quick to clean things up, if its a heavy snow fall give it one day. Don't be in a hurry, almost every car I've seen on the side of the road was passing me at a high rate of speed.

The Columbia Gorge from the Tri Cities to Portland can not only be very icy but also very windy. I've never had a problem but I slow down a bit when the road conditions warrant.

Grant's Pass would be the only concern really, I've see it closed for as much as three days. That time of year though I normally cut over to the coast either from Eugene or Salem and take Highway 1 down along the coast into California, then either continue on One or cut over to central California to I5 again.

A great resource are the state's highway cameras. You can get actual real time views of the roads. Seems we're having a really mild winter this year so hopefully you won't even have to worry about the snow, ice and roads. Where are you headed to in California? We'll be in California headed north back to Idaho about that same time. Have a great trip!

 

Thanks,
I may try the cut over to Hwy 1 down the coast as you suggest as we are in no hurry. We actually started this trek in Chicago mid December. Spent Christmas in CDA, heading down through California to San Diego and then another 950 miles to Cabo San Lucas. We'll be in Cabo till the end of March.

 

I wont touch the Siskiyous range this time of year... Best to cut to the coast and run 101 down.
If your running in good weather, Grants Pass to the coast is a favorite route. Road conditions vary, but the scenery is stunning at times. If your seeing any signs of snow then you will want to take 38 (just south of Eugene) to the coast. 38 is the lowest pass across the Oregon range, and well maintained for just that reason.

I have been driving from Seattle to Northern Cal yearly for as long as I can remember (25+ years?), and have deliberately chosen different routes and roads just to spice up what has become a routine and boring annual event.
If you are not familiar with the area and are looking for a list of things to see heading to California, let me know!

Vince