2001 Jetta VR6, 76k miles. Transmission fluid leaking, occasional short-term power loss. Have gotten the impression from many that newer VWs need (expensive) VW experts. Can I take this to a friend who does transmissions or must I go to a dealer?

Auto or Std trans??

If auto here's the issue...

Keep in mind Auto transmissions don't like to be run dry.

Also keep in mind that the 01M Automatic you most likely have retails for like $4000 just for the unit, not installation.

The corner trans guy can't rebuild the trans. This is a special unit

Just to check the fluid-

Hook up a Laptop with Vag.Com software installed.

Start the car and go into the transmissions data blocks and go to block 005, this will display fluid temp.

-ATF temperature not above approx. 30C (86F)
-Vehicle level
-Selector lever in "P"
-If ATF is below 30C (86F) bring the ATF up to test temperature.
Test temperature: 35C to 45 (95 to 113F)
-Remove ATF level plug from oil pan.

CHECKING PHYSICAL QUANTITY

If ATF drips out of hole:
ATF need not be topped up.
-Install new seal on plug and tighten to 15 Nm11 ft lb).
ATF check is completed.

If ATF does not drip out
-Remove plug from filler line.
-Fill with VW ATF (G 052 162 A2) until ATF runs out of level hole
-Install new seal on plug and tighten to 15 Nm (11 ft lb).
ATF check is completed.

CAUTION!
Too little or too much ATF will adversely affect transmission function.