Auto Mechanic Reviews by Business Name
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June 2009
Re: Trustworthy mechanic for '99 Forester
If you can take your car to SF, you can't do better than Action
Auto. Run by Robert, the place is a combination of high quality
service and sterling reputation. I'd happily leave Robert with a
signed blank check for him to fill out when the repairs are
finished.
I also drive a Subaru and service it at Action Auto:
2040 17th Street
(between Kansas St & Vermont St)
San Francisco, CA 94103
(415) 487-1210
He can understand a budget, and limit repairs for cost, but will
clearly explain the potential consequences. He will never let
you do anything unsafe. He will fix things other mechanics have
screwed up, and not chastise you for ''cheating on him'' out of
convenience. :)
When I first started going to him, I met a guy who had his car
up from San Jose, and I couldn't understand that. But after 15
years with Robert, I do now. I've lived in Marin, SF and
Berkeley in that time, and I use Robert b/c he's the best and
most honest mechanic I've ever met.
Good luck,
Car runs well
Re: Mechanic for 2001 Mercedes (Sept 2005)
I highly recommend All Mercedes in Oakland. I'd previously
taken the car to Mercedes of Pleasanton to get it serviced and
to have the A/C looked at as it wasn't working. They told me
that even with my extended warranty that the repair for the A/C
alone would cost me almost $700 (condenser had a hole in it) -
and they made it sound like the warranty company was doing me a
favor as they wouldn't typically cover the 'problem'. As an
alternative, they recommended that I file a claim with my auto
insurer under the comprehensive coverage as it appeared
the 'hole' was due to a stone hitting the condenser.
A friend recommended All Mercedes to me so I took the car to
them. Long story short, neither they nor the insurance company
found a hole in the condenser - they even let the car run for
six hours in an attempt to locate a leak...no leak existed. The
problem was resolved with the replacement of a different part
and this repair was covered by the warranty. I only had to pay
my deductible. Everyone was very helpful and thorough, and I'm
told that even without the warranty, their prices are very
reasonable. They use Mercedes parts but charge less on the
labor. Their website is allmercedes.com.
Lurdys
[Editor Note: There is a another auto shop on the same street.
Steven Lukacsy's Auto Europa shop is at the VERY END of the street.]
March 2006
I can't say enough good things about Auto Europa. We bought our '72 Mercedes 280SE 4.5 V8 from a UC Berkeley Family, and when the time came, we stupidly took it to another shop to get some work done near Sacramento. Needless to say, afterwards, we ended up bringing it to Steven.
Auto Europa on Cleveland in Albany/Berkeley. 510/528-3196 -Steven Lukacsy
Steven is Great, had worked on our 72 280SE 4.5 for over twenty years prior to us owning it. We had the heads done elsewhere stupidly, and when it didn't come out right, we found one of Steven's old invoices precariously placed in the car and called him up. Once we told him the color of the car (light blue) he instantly replied with the Previous Owner's name and told us we weren't allowed to have anyone else touch it in a humorous manner. He did an extensive inspection and replaced some electrical connectors, did the FI trigger points, and re-set the timing and idle back to where it should be, and the car runs better than my new F-250.... Needless to say, our previous shop did a shotty job, and even told us our wiring harness was trash. Thankfully Steven didn't have any hard feelings about us getting the heads done elsewhere, and did a great job for a reasonable price for us, which is important on a college student budget.
He'll even meet you at the train station if you need him to!
Bradley
May 2004
Exceptional Mercedes mechanic in Albany. Auto Europa is owned
and operated by Steven Lukacsy. He has been servicing Mercedes
exclusively for 35 years! His work is flawless and reasonably
priced. I HIGHLY recommend him for your Merc. Can't say enough
about him really - 510/528-3196 He's on Cleveland Ave. next to
the highway...
David
Re: Big, Old Dodge Engine needs an honest mechanic!
(March 2005)
Try Mike Benner at Benner Auto Repair, Inc. in Oakland @ 510-832-
1244. I've been taking my cars there for years and there's
usually at least 2 or 3 old American cars in the shop. If they
don't work on rv's perhaps they'll be able to refer you. They've
been in business at least 50 years. Good Luck!
Paula
Re: Big, Old Dodge Engine needs an honest mechanic!
(March 2005)
I take my '79 Cutlass Salon Oldsmobile to Benner Auto Repair,
488 25th St in Oakland, 832-1244. Been there for years, very
stable and content mechanics, reasonable rates,and I trust them.
If they can help you, they'd know who can.
Berkeley Audi Volkswagen
From: MM
A couple of digests ago, someone wanted info on VW repair. I used to go to
Roger Ramirez (Berkeley Audi Volkswagen, on San Pablo) and still think he's
great. But last time I needed work done ASAP (got towed off the Bay
Bridge....), Roger was completely booked. He recommended Karmakanix on 10th
Street (548-4494). I believe the owner's name is Steve (he WAS memorable,
it's just post-baby brain cell loss on my part.) Anyway, he rents space at
Charlie's Garage, and I highly recommend him. He is more like a car physician
than mechanic, does a complete check-up the first time you come in,
prioritizes repairs, takes your budget into account, tells you more than you
can absorb about the inner workings of your car...
I believe he works on Audis, too.
Broadway Volkswagen
Re: Honda of Oakland Service Center? (Sept 2005)
This month we have had the following experience at Broadway VW
Service.
Our 96 Jetta runs fine, but the engine light was on
intermittently. With 64k miles, we figured the car was telling
us it was sad we had not given it the 60k service. So we broke
down and took it in. The engine light was mentioned as the
reason for the service.
Around noon, I received a call that the front brakes needed
replacement. I agreed to let them do it. The expense for the
60k service and the brakes came in just under $1000. Ouch.
At 3 p.m., he called me to tell me it was ready to pick
up. ''And, by the way, did you know your engine light was on?''
HUH? That's why I brought it in. Well, it would take us a few
hours to diagnose that. We can't do it today. You'll have to
bring it back in and pay $150 for diagnosis. Then we can tell
you how much it would be to fix it.
That's unfortunate. But unfortunately, that's not the end of
the story.
I pick up the car only to hear -- for the first time in 9 years
of owning the car -- a very noticeable rattle in the muffler at
low rpms. After a few phone calls, I bring it in about 1 week
later.
Yep. There's a rattle. It's probably a broken baffle in the
tail pipe. BUT IT'S NOT OUR FAULT.
But it never made that sound until you had it.
I see. Well. Your muffler is old. It's not our fault. I
would take it to a muffler shop to save some money. Or we
could do the repair.
That's is what happened to me in August-September 2005 at
Broadway VW.
By the way, we also had our Honda Odyssey serviced this
summer. There were no problems. People were very professional
and nice. Their new facility is very clean and comfortable.
Free bagels and coffee!
Mike
Aug 2001
I cannot recommend Broadway Volkswagen. We have had
nothing but problems with them. They were O.K. when our car was
under warranty, but after that we found them to be difficult to work
with, they often did not diagnose the problem properly, overlooked
things, Broadway repeatedly underestimated the hours needed to complete the job
and would not stand behind their estimate, they diagnosed an electrical problem after
4 hours "looking for the problem", estimated that it would take 2 hours to fix (it took 4)
and then only fixed one of two shorts in the system. It was so bad that we
were ready to sell our 1996 Passat wagon just so we never had to deal
with them again. However, we found Germany's Best on College ...
Kristi
Re: Mechanic for Oldsmobile Alero (July 2004)
Car Care Automotive at 2504 MacArthur Blvd. in the Dimond area
of Oakland. Alberto is honest and professional. (510) 530-0690
Kathleen
Re: Honda repair shop for oil changes, etc. (June 2005)
Try Carlson's Garage--they are really nice guys and always do a
great job on our 2 hondas. The shop is at Parker and Shattuck,
right behind the Viking Trader furniture shop. Sometimes
information doesn't list them, I don't know why. The # is
845-6772
Julie
Charlie's Garage
Susan
try ron at charlie's garage in berkeley (near san pablo and dwight).
we have gone to him for years with our 84 toyota tercel. he's honest,
straightforward, and helps us prioritize when we couldn't afford to do
everything at once.
from: Susan
we have taken our cars to charlie's garage in berkeley: 2503 tenth near
dwight (off of san pablo). phone 849-0859. the owner is ron. they have
worked on a honda, a datsun and two toyotas over the years for us. they
are very honest and reliable. they have helped us prioritize when we
couldn't afford to do all of the work at once. they improvised a bolt
type system for our car seat to be tethered and they've gotten us used
parts on ocassion. they don't try to oversell. they are very patient
explaining things to non mechanic types. i'd highly recommend them.
Dan Chin's Chevron
From: Jeanette
I've been to the Ford Dealership on Broadway to have
some item replaced on my Ford Tempo. I'm afraid I can't recall what the
work was--it was a recall. They did a good job. But, I have to admit I
much prefer the Chevron Station on Shattuck and Francisco in Berkeley.
The full name is Dan Chin's Chevron (across from the Kentucky Fried
Chicken). I started using their services about 10 years ago when I needed
some work done on my Datsun 210. Since then I have changed cars. I have
a 1988 Ford Temp and these guys have always done a great job. What I am
most pleased about is their honesty. If you do not need work done, they
will tell you so. They are open from 7:30 in the morning until 7:00 pm at
night. I generally leave the car very early and then walk in to work.
They don't have a lot of storage space, so they tend to work on the cars
as quickly as possible. They will also have you come on a different day
if they have too much work. Their labour costs are a little pricey, but I
feel they are worth it. Frankly, they are the only folks I trust my cars
to. Hope this helps. Jeantte
Re: Mechanic for Jaguar (August 2005)
I've used Continental Imports in Oakland a couple of times
and have been pretty happy with them. They're at 2215
International Blvd. near the 23rd Ave. exit off 880.
Nancy
Re: Looking 4 good mechanic in Walnut Creek for Dodge Caravan
Tom at Diablo Services in Lafayette is the owner of a great car repair shop.
He's across from the Lafayette Park Hotel. We have used him for 20+ years, he is
honest, fair and reasonable and if you have a problem he can usually fit you in
within a day or two if not that day. His number is 284-2120. I wouldn't go to
anyone else.
anon
Re: Mechanic for 94 Jetta (July 2004)
We take our 2003 Passat to the VW Dealership in Dublin. They
give first class service and we recommend them, however I don't
know how their prices compare to other places. They are always
courteous and pleasant to deal with. We purchased our car from
there. Our car is still under warranty, so I don't know if that
makes a difference in service level.
RE: Acura mechanic, not a dealer (Aug 2002)
Acura Mechanic: this is a recommendation to an old post from
someone looking for an inexpensive Acura mechanic. A family
friend named Jeff Go fixes my Acura Legend and my brother-in-
law's Honda. You can reach him at 510/435-4266. His business
is called Dynamic Auto Trends. He does good work and won't do
anything you don't need. He knows a lot about where to get good
used parts and where to buy new parts wholesale.
Christina
European Auto Salvage Yard (EASY)
November 2001
We have a 1996 Mercedes E300D (diesel) and want a recommendation for a
reliable and preferably not too expensive mechanic. We live in Oakland and
would prefer a mechanic nearby but are willing to travel a reasonable
distance for a good mechanic.
miho
The EASY (European Auto Salvage Yard) in Emeryville used to have a great
mechanic for Mercedez diesels. If they're still there they're the best
around.
Nancy
Ed's Best Auto Service
From: Sharon
I highly recommend Ed Ciurlizza owner of Ed's Best Auto Service at 1931
Addison, 843-8221. Ed is an honest and reliable mechanic. He has worked
on my Jeep and Ford van but I'm sure he repairs both foreign and American
cars. Give him a call, walking distance to campus!
Re: Looking for good and honest VW mechanic (Nov 2005)
I used to have a 90 VW GTI (just sold it last year) and for years took it to Walter at
German Auto Salvage in Berkeley. I tried several other mechanics before finding him.
Definitely the most knowledgeable and honest and an all around nice guy, too.
Good luck!
Elizabeth
Germany's Best
After a bad experience with the dealer, we found Germany's Best on College and they
have been fabulous. They only work on German cars and they really know
what they're doing. Once your car is off warranty I suggest you give
them a try and avoid Dirito and Broadway at all costs!
Kristi (8/01)
I would like to recommend Germany's Best at 5291 College in Oakland, (510)
658-8948,
near Broadway. They have done excellent work on my husband's 1975 BMW 2002 & my
1980
528i. They work only on German cars (ie. VW, BMW, Mercedes, Porsche, Audi) and
were
recommended to us by a friend who also drives BMWs. Of the several German car
mechanics
we have used locally, we are most satisfied with Germany's Best. They have
excellent
prices on parts, new and used, and though they have steeper than we prefer labor
charges,
the work is top notch and not one problem has ever been overlooked. In the end,
we
feel the labor charges are worth it. My husband does much of the work himself on
both
cars, but has relied on Germany's Best for the finer work requiring more
specialized
tools than he has.
Holliday
RE: Oil Change (July 2003)
I know a great car fixer who is relatively inexpensive, really
nice, trustworthy and knows what he's doing. He and his partner
have a fairly small business and can't do major car repair, but
I trust him completely. If he can't fix your car, he'll send
you to Patti's Auto Care (RUN BY A WOMAN, YES!), or elsewhere.
His name is Sid Guthrie & phone: 549-1403. They do oil
changes, spark plugs and general auto care.
Toby
Re: Independent shop for Nissan service (May 2002)
I know of a great, reputable, inexpensive, mechanic that works on
all kinds of cars. I've used them for years. It is a small shop
(just 2 guys). The guy's name is Sid and the telephone number
is: 549-1403.
Toby
From: Toby
For Toyota repair, try Sid Guthrie, a local mechanic, 549-1403. He has
worked on our cars for years (and also several friends). Although he can't
do everything, he'll tell you when he can't fix something and recommend a
place to take it. He's also very inexpensive.
He's very good and trustworthy, but doesn't
have a big, fancy shop.
Re: Mechanic for Subaru Outback (Aug 2002)
Looking For A Good Mechanic?
Try Jeff Hagan in Oakland. You can reach him on 510-504-8304.
Although he is a Volvo mechanic he does work on other makes of
cars and bikes. He worked on our Volvo last week doing various
jobs including the brakes front & back. Not only was the work
excellent and the price was very reasonable, he was also very
professional.
Jane & Myles
Re: Big, Old Dodge Engine needs an honest mechanic!
(March 2005)
Dear Dodge owner, I would recommend Holland car service on San
Pablo in Berkeley, near University. Their phone #845-7944. They have
dealt w/ our '65 Chevy 3/4 ton pick-up for years. They're friendly, not too
busy and they open @ 6 a.m.! Good luck.
CB
Re: Good mechanic for Jeep Grand Cherokee (May 2004)
The guys at Holland Service (on San Pablo, opposite Lucky
Dog, next to Jack in the Box) fix American cars. They worked
on my Jeep Cherokee now and then for years and are the
only people I'd want to work on my Chevy Van now that its
out from under the Dealer's warranty
Holland has the old-fashioned combination of honesty and
competence you are looking for. They recently did a repair
on my cooling system that the dealer would have used to
replaced the engine (less labor, more cost to me).
The guys at Holland also explain things well, and will give
you the ''best'' option and a ''most affordable'' option to
choose between if you ask. They have been clear about
times when a quick fix ''might'' solve a problem...and might
not.
My only hesitation in recommending them is that they might
get too busy to see me on 24 hour's notice.... but I'm willing
to take that chance. Phone #845-7944.
Heather
April 2005
Does any one have experience with Hustead's Car Repair on
Durant? An insurance company has them on a list of pre-selected
shops for collision repairs. I would love to hear any feedback
about Hustead's. Thanks!
I used Hustead's a couple of months ago, to fix a few items of
body damage, all minor. They did a good job, finished on time
and were very helpful about lining up a car rental for the three
or four days that they kept may car. I would use them again.
Ann
Inca Chevron
For the person looking for a good American car mechanic I would like to
recommend Inca Chevron at the corner of Ashby and Telegraph Ave. They do
great work and they do the work right the first time. I am almost certain
they work on foreign cars also. Their phone number is 843-4776.
Ben
RE: Quality, independent Acura shop? (April 2003)
85% of most dealership income is from
service. Most charge flat rates per
service done. This can translate to
rates equivalent to well into the
hundreds of dollars per hour.
Even before moving to Concord
we used to go to Karden Automotive
in Walnut Creek (925.939.6769)
Their service has been excellent and
the cost reasonable. A friend with a
Lexus was quoted $800 plus to do her
brakes and Karden did the job for
$440.
Previous to Karden we used Oakland
Auto Works on Macarthur, service
was very good, but prices were
3/4ths the rate charged by the
dealers and that was too much for
our budget.
jon
Re: Trustworthy mechanic to inspect Mazda I'm purchasing (July 2005)
We used to take our Mazda to Ken Lam at Kenny's Auto Repair. His
phone is 510-623-1705 and his address is 41463 Albrae Street (at
least, it was 5 years ago when we lived in Fremont). We always
felt he did honest work for a reasonable price.
Erin
Hugh Killroy
Michael
I recently bought a used Volvo from someone on this parents list and
he
was very pleased with his mechanic, Hugh Killroy. Hugh specializes
in
Volvos and is at: 3137 Magnolia St. in Oakland, phone: 654-0751. I
haven't personally gone there, but the previous owners of our car
were
quite pleased with him. Since he wasn't already listed on the web
site,
I thought I'd share his info with everyone.
Re: Good mechanic for Jeep Grand Cherokee (May 2004)
Kraft Automotive, 1345 Grand Ave, Piedmont, CA is wonderful
place with wonderful service. They work on all vehicles, have
been around forever and it is owned by a woman!!!! They
provide transportation to Bart or to your house or work after
you drop off your vehicle. It is just such a wonderful
experience to have NICE mechanics and people who genuinely care
about you! Debra Kraft is the owner and is just so great. I
would highly recommend going here.
jenn
Lukes and Shoreman
From: irivera
In regards to a good V.W. mechanic- I've gone to Luke's and Shorman in
Albany for 13 years. They're great- but rather pricey. I've tried about 5
different shops ( to try to cut cost)- I was ripped off at one, my car ran
worse after another, my last attempt to save some money ended with me suing
a shop on Shattuck Avenue- a piece of metal somehow slipped into a cylinder
head when their mechanic removed the spark plugs-ruined the engine. If you
have and old VW-" Bauer VW" in Berkeley is supposed to be good.
Re: BMW Repair shop (Oct 2006)
M Service in Walnut Creek is the best. They only work on
Mercedes and BMW's, and they know EXACTLY what they are doing.
Meticulous and totally efficient. Even though I live in
Berkeley, it was easiest overall for my car to be serviced
there, because they could diagnose problems immediately, fix
them once and only once, and get the job done when they said
they would. (I never had to wait for parts, even though my BMW
was old, unlike my husband's experience at the Audi dealer
where everything needed to be ordered from Germany.) They will
drop you off and pick you up at the BART station, too, and they
are friendly and just overall GREAT to deal with.
Fran
Re: BMW maintenance/repair (May 2005)
I take my 1990 BMW to M Service in Walnut Creek. They are a
total pleasure to deal with. I never have to wait for parts,
they are thorough, and they explain everything. Plus, they know
BMWs inside and out. When my windshield wipers began acting
strangely and the door locks refused to work, they told me over
the phone that it was a particular fuse and to come right in. I
drove up, they popped in the new fuse and I was able to leave 5
min. later, problem solved and no charge. I live in Berkeley,
but find them perfectly convenient because they will take you
to and from BART, or you can leave your car the night before
and pick it up after they have closed if you authorize them to
charge your credit card. I tried Import Motors on Telegraph
once (for a new battery) and wasn't happy because they told me
my car was ready when it wasn't, after I had waited in a
loooong line to pick it up. What I saved in driving time was
more than wasted in wait time.
Fran
Marshall's Motors, Milvia Street, Berkeley
This is a family business that I have used a few times because of the
proximity to my workplace. I like them a lot, they seem fair and very
helpful to me, always explaining the procedures in great detail. I never
feel like I'm being railroaded like what can happen at auto repair shops
when women go alone. They are very friendly and helped me out of some
serious jams.
Lena
Marty's Metrix
We use Marty's Metrix, in Oakland. He is a wonderful mechanic - honest,
friendly and dependable. He works on most Japanese and European
model cars
(not Italian, though). His number is 465-5698; located near Lake Merritt
off of East 12th.
Adriane (1/00)
Re: Good Toyota mechanic in the East Bay? (Jan 2007)
We have been very happy with Mekatron in Concord. They only do
Japanese cars, and we take my husband's Acura and my Sienna to
them. They are consistently ranked very highly in the consumer
surveys, and both Michael and Ian are very helpful and
trustworthy. Their information can be found at
http://www.mekatron.com/
Claire
Metric Motion
Louise
Re: A Toyota mechanic--Larry at Metric Motion does fine work, he's fast,
he's honest; and, speaking as a woman customer, I never felt intimidated
or talked down to. His address is 1085 Eastshore Hwy, his phone is
524-0663. Evan Meyer at Automotive Repair is also an excellent and
honest mechanic. He will really take the time to explain what's
happening to my car in plain language. He is at 2020 Addison, phone
849-1390.
From: John
Re: Toyota repairs
I'd recommend Larry Hickock/Metric Motion, 1085 East Shore Highway,
524-0663. Good, honest, etc.
Motor City
From; Tahani
I really like Alan at Motor City, Shattuck & Prince (843-4521).
This place came recommended in some newsgroup, I can't remember
which; it's been a while.
From: a dad
Re: Mechanic for Jeep
We have two mechanics that we think the world of -- they are both honest
and very reliable. I don't know if they service Jeeps, but it's worth a
try.
2) Motor City (ask for Alan), 3058 Shattuck, Berkeley (also near Ashby),
843-4521.
RE: Quality, independent Acura shop? (April 2003)
The Oakland Accura service dept people are very pleasant but
too busy for my tastes. The kinds of trouble I had with their
repairs seemed to be the kinds of things that happen when you
rush. I've had to go back twice to get things fixed once, right,
on several occasions. An example is when they replaced a recall
part under the dash, they accidently disconected the ventilation
system. No air at all. When they fixed that, they left the heater
something or other jammed open, so that for monthes I thought that
I had to get the air conditioning refilled, but actually, the
heater was just on constantly along with the air con..... Also
when I told them that some of the dashboard lights were out,
chiefly, the radio ones, they claimed that those buttons didn't
light up period, an outright lie.
Most aggravatingly, after every service they would mail a 2 page
survey about whether you were happy with their service and if you
didn't fill it out, they'd keep sending them and eventually start
calling. They will drop you off and pick you up, wash your car,
and give you coffee and tea, but I'd rather the work was done correctly.
Natalie
Re: Mechanic for '95 Jeep Grand Cherokee (July 2002)
We have a '96 Jeep Grand Cherokee and previously had a
1988 model. I used to take my previous jeep to a local
mechanic specializing in these cars, but I spent a lot
of money for them to fix a problem they were never
quite able to diagnose, albeit with very good intentions
on their part. I then took my old jeep to the Connell
dealership on Broadway in Oakland. Ken Norris is one
of the service managers there and he knew exactly what
was wrong with my car and fixed it. Since I've had my
second jeep, I've been bringing it there for service
and for the most part have felt that they have done
excellent work on my car and I don't feel they've led
me to do unnecessary work. I'm not sure if they'll be
cheaper than your corner gas station mechanic, but I do
feel they offer very good customer service, they are
trust worthy and stand by their work. Good luck.
Hannah
April 2002
Why are we so vulnerable when it comes to car repairs? Can anybody
recommend an
honest, reliable not to mention good mechanic that specializes in
Isuzus? I have
a '99 Isuzu Trooper which needs a diagnostic look-over and most likely
repairs.
Does anybody out there have an Isuzu Trooper and, if so, where do you go for
mechanical work?? Thanks for any input/suggestions.
Liz
I have a '94 Isuzu Trooper and have had it serviced at O'Connell in Oakland
since purchasing it 8 years ago. The service I have received has been ok -
not great. The fees for service seem on the high side to me, typical of
dealerships.
Cathy
RE: Acura mechanic, not a dealer (Aug 2002)
I would highly recommend Pat's Garage in SF (right under
Bay bridge). TOTALLY worth the trip. They are the most
wonderful people and treat you like family. The only work on
Honda/Acura and are experts. Most of the work they do for
us involves dropping of f the car at 8am and taking it home
after lunch. I have a lot of happy friends who have
discovered Pat's as well. http://www.patsgarage.com
Hadley
Patti and Steve's
I have been asked to post the following message:
Patti (of Patti and Steve's Auto Care in Albany), is no longer associated
with this business. She has asked me to let people know that she will be
opening another business soon. Sherry
Patty and Steve's in Albany is fantastic. It is both environmentallly
friendly (certified as a 'green' auto repair shop) and kid friendly (they
have a small toy room full of second hand toys), their work is first rate,
and their prices are very reasonable (as these things go).
Donna & Eric
We have a great honda mechanic: Patti and Steve's on Eastshore in Albany.
526-3906. The are very honest, reliable and reasonably priced!
Sherry
For Honda work, I recommend Patti and Steve's Auto Care,
510-526-3906. Steve knew what the problem was with our
1985 4-wheel drive wagon, and had fixed the problem on
the same model before. It was obscure enough that no one
else we had taken it to could figure out what to do other than
balance the wheels. They also were able to find the part (the
4 wheel drive shaft) at 1/3 the price of a new one, and it would
have been very expensive otherwise.
Susan
Re: Local VW repair shop? (June 2006)
After having a terrible experience at _____ (I'm not kidding, almost $4,000 in
repairs over 4 visits and problems still not solved, but nice guys) I went to Porboys
German Automotive Service in Oakland. What a difference! Joe and Dave are
amazing mechanics who delved into research about my unusual car problem and
fixed it -- only $395 later. Joe (the owner) spent almost 30 minutes talking with me
about my VW Golf diesel, he called me with more information, and when I picked it
up Dave gave me a lot more advice about taking care of it (I'd bought it used and
the previous owners had done little upkeep). Incredibly knowledgeable,
professional, honest, good people -- and absolutely top-notch mechanics. They're
2 blocks from the Fruitvale BART. Porboys.com. 3640 E. 9th Street, Oakland.
510.437.9400
Huge fan of trustworthy, expert car care!
Feb 2005
I'd like to recommend my mechanic, Bruce at Quality Tech. Bruce
and his crew are some of the hardest working mechanics I've ever
met. He takes time out to explain what is wrong with your car. He
doesn't talk down to women. If he doesn't get it right the first
time, he'll fix it for free.
Bruce is one of the last great mechanics around. Quality Tech's #
is 453-6298.
I've had a problem with the car's computer before. It sounds like
you are having the same problem. A good mechanic will check to
see if the computer is having a problem or if it is a real
problem. If it is the computer, they'll take out the chip and the
problem is solved.
By the way, Bruce works with all kinds of cars, new and old.
bk
Re: Saab in need of a major servicing (April 2004)
Until last year, I owned a 1991 Saab 900 (recently traded for a
9-5!). I go to Quality Tech, 1235 - 16th Ave (near 12th
Street) in Oakland (510) 532-2355. Bruce is the guy who owns
the shop and he used to own Saabs, so knows quite a bit about
them. I have found him to be honest -- and willing to tell me
what *really* needed to be fixed for the car to run versus what
would be a good idea if I could manage it. My car had 170,000
miles on it when I finally gave it up, and ran great thanks to
Bruce's fixes -- I only gave it up because it was a 2-door and
was difficult with a new baby. Quality Tech gets VERY busy at
times, so be prepared to be patient, and the earlier in the day
you can drop off your car, the faster it will get looked at.
Lisa
I'd love to recommend my mechanic Bruce Vong for your
automotive needs. He's the best! You tell him what you
want, and he'll tell you what to buy. He's got a strong bias
towards Hondas, so I just want to put that out upfront. He's
seen every brand of car I've brought to him and in my
opinion, he's right.
He'll tell you what years were good years for the
make/model, how much to pay, and suggestions of places
to look for cars.
He charges $70 for an inspection and he is extremely
meticulous. This helps you out in the bargining process
because he'll tell you how much the repairs cost and what to
counter offer on the asking price.
If you choose to use his services for your car you have
purchased, if he misses something the first time, he fixes it
free.
Bruce's shop is called Quality Tech and they are in Oakland.
1235 16th Ave. Phone 532-2355
Very happy with my mechanic
RE: Oil Change (July 2003)
Quality Tune-up, 10069 San Pablo Ave., El Cerrito, 527-0247.
I've been going there for years -- first with my very old car,
and then with a brand new car. I'm female, mechanically
clueless, and mechanic-phobic, but I have always been thoroughly
satisfied with them. About $22 I think? You can't make an
appointment though, so you have to go when there isn't a long
wait.
Re: Super-competant Volvo repair service? (April 2005)
Hi,
Both my mom and I own Volvo's and we each use different places.
My 245 wagon is a 1978 [no computer in engine] therefore gets the
''old fashioned'' mechanic treatment at Rob's Automotive in El
Cerrito. My mom's is a 96 wagon with all the fancy computer tech
inside and she uses McKevits in Berkeley. We each love the work
that is done and the outstanding customer service at both places.
Rob's charges about 40% less per hour than McKevits and isn't as
super fast, but he is thorough, fair and very cool. My car needs
certain things that are harder to find nowadays and they always
come up with creative and as inexpensive as possible, ways to
take care of my baby. My mom originally started with Rob, but she
needs her car for work, so she needs super fast work done and
loved the free loaner rental car that McKevits has offered her
each time they've had her car. And, yes there is more, Rob
explains every single detail of why my car is behaving a certain
way, how he is going to fix it. He explains all of this with a
thoroughness that often leaves my head swimming and eyes blurred.
Hope this helps you take care of the best cars in the entire
world. Volvo !!!!!!
patricia
Re: Saab in need of a major servicing (April 2004)
I've been happy with Saab Replay on Carelton in
Berkeley--540-1120. They did a good job on my 1993 Saab
and it wasn't expensive. They just fixed what was broken,
and didn't ask me if I wanted to do lots of extras.
I used to go to Specialized Saab, but they switched
ownership and the new owners weren't as good--they were
way over their estimate, and even raised the price by $200
in between the time i called to see
what the final bill was and when I came to pick up the car an
hour later --So stick with the crew at Saab Replay and you'll
be in good hands.
Sarah
August 2001
We are looking for a shop in Berkeley/Oakland/Lamorinda that services Saabs - trying to avoid the (often unnecesarily) expensive dealership prices. Any suggestions?
Karolyn
Saab Replay on Carlton near San Pablo in Berkeley.
The guys there just love Saabs --Daniel
Saab Replay off of San Pablo on Carleton in Berkeley. Their phone number is:
510. 540.1120. Ben Rono is the owner and the one I know the most but he is
not around as much as he used to be. I have been going to them for the last
5 years and wouldn't think about going anywhere else in the area. -Danny
Blitz
October 2002
I have been scrolling through past recommendations for a good,
reliable garage to service (and take good care) of an Old
Porsche. I used to go to Luke's and Shoreman on San Pablo in
Albany but they have closed their shop this summer. Any
recommendations ?
Thanks !
Laure
Porsche Mechanic
My husband has been very pleased with Sam Sipkins in Oakland. He
specializes in four-cylinder air-cooled engines. Sam's number is
(510) 632-8232 (my husband just recited that to me from
memory...)
Embarrassed Porsche Wife
Small Car Repair
From: MB
We have used Small Car Repair 841-5755 for three Totyotas now. They
are fast, efficient, and inexpensive. They are also honest, and gave
me some very good advice about getting rid of an old but beloved car.
Ask for Gus or Aaron.
Re: Where to take my Passat with McNevin gone
(June 2006)
I can happily recommend Sonnen in Marin County. We had purchased
our Passat at McNevin. One night at 9:30pm about 40miles before
the bumper to bumper was about to expire the clutch stopped
working. My husband managed to make it to McNevin, only to
discover that they had gone out of buniess (though that was not
clearly marked at the afterhours dropoff... good thing he didn't
drop our key in the slot.) He then had the car towed to Sonnen.
We were happy to find that they were open (Yes, they are open
until midnight) and were very pleasant to work with. In fact
when VW tried to deny the claim saying it was due to normal wear
and tear ''our'' repair manager went to bat for us, took the car
apart to figure out what had happened and was able to convince
them that they needed to cover it since the clutch plate doesn't
shatter with normal wear and tear... it was a factory defect.
They would have given us a loaner car for free during all of
this but they had run out due to the recent flooding in San
Anselmo. We have been back several times for other minor things
(new wiper blades, etc.) and have always received excellent
service... better than McNevin's ever was.
VW customer
Sept 2003
Has anyone used SOS Auto Service for SAAB repair? If so, what
was your experience?
Thanks in advance,
Beth
From: James
I've had my Subaru serviced at SOS since about 1984. (Yes, amazingly
enough, I still own the very same one. It almost of legal drinking age.)
In all these years, I've never had a bad experience with them. Jean, the
owner and lead mechanic, has always given me cogent explanations of what
was wrong with the car, was willing to discuss the repair options with me,
and met his time and cost estimates. At times, he suggested repairing
other mechanical problems that he noticed while working on it, but I never
felt that he was applying pressure or trying to exaggerate their severity.
When the car was newer, he seemed inclined to make suggestions for getting
it back into top running condition. He eventually became accepting of my
guiding philosophy, which was to fix and maintain that which was necessary,
but to accept its inexorable decline into a wheezing, rattling, but running
heap.
Re: Mechanic for 2001 Mercedes (Sept 2005)
I highly recommend Sunset 76 Auto Service in San Francisco for Mercedes repairs.
My brother, Louis is the owner and is a mechanic as well. He is very honest, gives
excellent customer service and has over 25 years of experience. The mechanics are
very experienced with Mercedes and BMW. You can save a lot of money by going to
this shop rather than to the dealer (very expensive). Give them a try, trust me you
won't be sorry... They have frequent promotions as well even though their prices
are already very reasonable. I own a BMW and my brother has always worked on it
rather than the dealership. I can't tell you how much money I have saved by not
going to the dealership and basically getting ripped off by them! Feel free to e-mail
me if you have any further questions or call Louis directly at (415) 753-9635..
Randa
Taymuree
From: Deborah
I can highly recommend Taymuree on Broadway at 41st--655-8182
They mostly do foreign cars, but we also bring them our Jeep.
Very trustworthy and reliable--they've told us not to do certain repairs
because they weren't really necessary, even though they could have made
more money by telling us to do them. Also, they've been very helpful while
shopping for a used car in terms of checking it out.
From: Al, Melanie
To the person looking for a Honda mechanic: go to Taymuree auto on Broadway
in Oakland, a little way south of 51st. The first time I met the brothers
who run it, one of them drove to my house to start my car for me, adjusted
some wiring, which fixed a problem I'd been having for weeks, and then
refused to charge me anything. Very smart move on his part--I've been going
back ever since, and have only good things to say about the work they've
done on my car.
Walnut Creek Autopros
I can recommend Walnut Creek Autopros (925-933-1050; 1520 Third Ave.)
without hesitation. The proprietor's name is Mike Chu. We've been going
to Mike for 8+ years. Prior to this we took our cars to Berkeley Minicar
but we needed a new place to service acuras. We (and many of our friends)
now use him exclusively. Mike's prices are reasonable, the quality of his
work is excellent, he's trustworthy, and he will review in detail
(sometimes in excruciating detail) the work a car needs before initiating
service. He will also not hesitate to tell us when he feels a certain part
or repair is unnecessary or overkill.
DF
Re: Mechanic for 1991 MR2 (Feb 2005)
I have always been leery of dealership service shops, but I am
sold on Walnut Creek Toyota. They are open until midnight Monday
through Friday, and until 5 both Saturday and Sunday -- hours
that are a real help to working people. They are near BART and
also run a shuttle van to locations within 10 miles or so. (They
have taken me to Orinda.) The service staff is nice, and honest:
they have dissuaded me from doing work I suggested but they
thought was unnecessary.
Leslie
Walsh Brothers
Re: Good Volvo mechanic in Berkeley (April 2007)
D.H. Walsh in Albany/Berkeley on Solano Ave (@ Marin) has been
our mechanic for the last 10 years. We've been servicing our
Volvos there and have been very satisfied. Michael had worked
for Dave Walsh for many years. When Dave passed away a few years
ago, Michael bought the shop and continued working there. He
fits you into his schedule on short notice, he always tells you
what and why something needs to be done, and he doesn't do more
than necessary. And he his a very nice guy with great humour.
His phone: 525-5994
V70 & S70 Owner
Re: Reliable shop for late-model Nissans (June 2004)
We've been taking out Nissans (older ande new) to Wise Auto Tech
on San Pablo a few blocks south of University. They're
reasonable in cost (about 1/2 of other mechanics and for
replacing a clutch a few years ago), finish in a timely mannor,
give rides to BART, even will tow for free withing 5 miles if a
car dies (like that clutch!).
Mike
Wrights Auto Service
RE: Toyotos
I have taken my last two cars to Wrights Auto Service on Ashby near College.
I think they are great. I have never felt like they were taking advantage of
me. In fact, they explain everything they are doing and why. The number is
841-2740.
YAS
From: Richard
My wife and I have been taking our cars to YAS for many years, and think
highly of their work and service, good, reasonable and honest. They used
to be right on Milvia at Kittridge. Unfortunately, they lost their lease
last year and had to move down to 2720 San Pablo Ave @ Pardee, a few blocks
north of Ashby. We still bring our cars there all the time. The owner's
name is Bruce. Phone no. is: 841-8801.
Re: Local VW repair shop? (June 2006)
Al Yuen's always been dependable. He's great with female car
owners. He doesn't talk down to you and gives you an honest
assessment of what's wrong with your car. I have a 98 VW Jetta
that he services and I'm completely satisfied. He does all kinds
of cars. 893-4204.
cheryl
Re: Mechanic for 1995 Land Rover Discovery (Nov 2005)
We have a 1995 Land Rover Discovery and use the 76 station at
College and Claremont. They are cheaper than the dealership (who
isn't ?) but I don't know if you would call them inexpensive.
They have worked on our LR for the past 3 years with very good
service. They have been very upfront about the cost of the work
BEFORE they do the work. They also seem to have no problems
acquiring the LR parts.
- anon
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