Rachel was very kind and helpful in letting me know what I needed for my car! I only needed to replace the battery, so I wasn't there for a long time. It was a bit on the pricey side so hopefully it lasts a long time!!! read more

This place is the bomb! It was like going back in time while experiencing the honest and affordable experience I had. Ron rocks it! You can feel safe taking your auto here! read more

Been here twice for service. No nonsense. Both times completely satisfied. Turn around time quick, rates excellent, communication of updates and completion excellent. This last time they even washed the exterior very nicely and it was filthy! I'll return for sure and recommend highly. read more

I have been going to Advanced Auto since they opened 14 years ago and am so relieved to have a place that I can trust to take my car to. I recently had an oil change done from "another guy" and he said that I needed brakes and rotors that would cost me about $1,150. I of course said thanks but no thanks cause' I gotta guy who will tell me the truth AND charge me less. And that guy is Ron at Advanced Auto and he told me that it wasn't an emergency but that it was probably time for brake pads and a front rotor. The work done was half the price of the other estimate and done quickly. I won't go anywhere else and I feel like I have a friend in the community as well. Thanks a bunch Ron!! read more

First, I'd like to say the experience started well, I dropped my car off with Ron himself, asked him for a diagnostic and (importantly) nothing else. He said I understand, took down my information, and promised a call about an hour later. After reading all the 5-star reviews, I trusted the guy completely. My car is a BMW from the mid 90's, so it has numerous issues, on top of the fact that I bought it in non-running condition-- if I didn't do all of the work myself I'd be in debt up to my eyeballs. I brought the car in for a peculiar engine knock and high idle. I had studied the issue, and I was divided on the answer, and I figured I'd let them plug the diagnostic tool into my system instead of screwing around by myself until I narrowed it down enough to buy the new parts. I've installed countless new parts on the car, fixed numerous issues, and thus was very familiar with the new parts, the old parts, and the funny noises it makes. For this reason, I was upset to find upon my returning (roughly 1.5 hours later) some guy resembling grease lightning screwing around under the hood of my car, no diagnostic tool plugged in. I figured "reputable Ron" was just looking out for me. I went inside to thank him for the extra effort, and that I was sorry to admit I could not afford anything more than a diagnostic as my own labor and my own parts source is much cheaper. At this, he scoffed, not believing that I could get parts for a better price than he could. When I mentioned they were used parts, he scoffed again, saying the used parts would break down. Now I completely agree with that, new parts are of course better than used parts, however, the part in question is a rubber intake boot. Rubber tubing, which he was suggesting would cost over $100. Moreover, I had just purchased an intake boot for my car for $13. Of course mine was used, but was in perfect working order-- I had selected and pulled it myself. At this point, a customer of Ron's, jumped in to say something of the 'my kid is just as stubborn, I swear they just don't know how these things work' effect. Ron and the customer went back and forth, discussing right in front of me how foolish, stubborn, and irresponsible I was being. And I apologized to them (which, retrospectively is ridiculous), but needed to stress 2 points: first, the issue they had found in my car was not the culprit for the engine knock, and second, that even if Ron wanted me to buy a new part, I wouldn't be able to afford it. Somehow the guy convinces me to buy the part I couldn't afford, suggesting I use a credit card. After all of this, I insist we walk to the car to see how the guy from Grease is doing, as he is cursing, stalling, and restarting my car. Then, after Ron had hassled me inside for not purchasing something I couldn't afford, his mechanic very clearly demonstrated a lack of understanding variable valve timing, or as it is called in a BMW, V.A.N.O.S. The mechanic and Ron surveyed my intake, both puzzled at the two holes coming out of the bottom of my intake boot. "See this is where your un-metered air is coming from. Un-metered air is a problem because." Admittedly furious, I interrupted "I know why unmetered air is an issue. Those holes are supposed to be there." Obviously frustrated himself, Ron insists that as long as those holes are there, the car will not run properly. He then instructs his mechanic to plug them. Those holes were for my ICV (Idle control valve) and for VANOS ventilation. They started the car and it Idled high, around 3,500 RPM (outrageously high). Ron suggests the problem is fixed, and the car will now run like new. I disagree saying the car doesn't sound right and that it is not good practice to plug intentional holes on a vehicle you are unfamiliar with. To summarize this increasingly long episode, it ended with my car unable to move when I had brought it in for a simple engine knock. I've reviewed the place 2 Stars, because after insisting I didn't know how to drive stick, then trying to drive the car himself, Ron was embarrassed and gave me a refund. He didn't apologize, which I would have appreciated, but I respect that he refunded me. He seems to be a good guy, he seems to have helped a lot of people. I don't know if it was just an off day, if he simply hadn't worked on a foreign car (which appeared likely by surveying the lot), or if it's because he thought I was a punk kid with bottomless pockets, but this is the first and last time I go to a mechanic. read more

My experience with Ron and the staff at Advanced Auto has been stellar,,, and the quality of work done on my 1967 LTD Galaxie is even better! I brought my car in with misfiring cylinders, among other issues. My LTD was reeling from a botched repair job by another local shop that took me out of pocket by $!000 for basically making my car worse. Advanced Auto diagnosed my engine problems along with great consultation on what needed to be done and how they would go about doing it, all before spending a single dollar! (do people do that anymore? YES THEY DO AT ADVANCED!) Ron showed a general interest in my car and I wound up getting a bunch of extra repairs relevant to my original issue without any extra charge. Specifically, the staff realized I had a bad motor mount along with my valve issues and that was replaced at no extra charges of parts or labor. This told me that there was a general concern for my car's well being rather then itemizing an invoice and over-bloated parts and labor costs. 2 big ol' fashion thumbs up for Advanced Auto. I will only take my LTD here from now on as I know I am getting the best repair work at the best price here in Santa Cruz. read more

I have had several cars repaired there over the years and have purchased used cars recommended by Ron. all have been everything he said. He is honest and excellent at what he does! read more

Third visit to the shop and as always I was taken care of quickly and with skill. First time I was in was for the dreaded Timing belt on my Nissan XTerra, he did it quick and for the best price I had been quoted. I dropped the rig off and he got me to work and at the end of the day my rig was ready and the job was done, on time and on budget. Just today my brakes had been giving me problems, squeaks etc. When I took it in he assessed that pads would be good enough and didn't try to get me to turn the disks or do anything expensive I didn't need. In every visit to this shop I have looked the owner straight in the eye and he has given me the best deal on the work I could find anywhere. I have full trust in this shop, and that trust has been tested by others in town. I endorse Advanced Auto on all levels. Trustworthy, Capable, and Reasonable. read more

We have been Ron's customers since 1998, the year he opened his shop. His service has always been beyond excellent. We trust him implicitly as a mechanic and businessman. He always goes above and beyond to make sure our cars are in top running condition. Ron has been a lifesaver to us on so many occasions. For 17 years, he has not only serviced our cars, but has also counseled us on car purchases and we have always been completely satisfied. Ron and his staff consistently keep pace with the newest car technology and other critical information in the automotive profession. Tyler in the front office is fantastic! Ron is really friendly and down to earth. But more importantly, he is super smart and knows what he is doing. That is priceless when it comes to car maintenance and the safety of my family. read more

Replaced my Ball Joints on the spot .Probably should have had a alignment done too. Seemed a bit stressful there...................but they got the job done. read more

I highly recommend Advanced Auto. Excellent customer service. They go above and beyond for their customers. I brought in my Fiat for a check engine light. The owner diagnosed the issue, informed me the issue would still be under warranty, and he contacted Fiat directly to verify. Truly amazing customer service! read more

I would like to thank Ron and his staff for taking us in and fixing our car the thermostat had gone out and they had us in and out in 4 hours took us at the last minute they were really busy and they made sure we was safe on the road again to go home thank you read more

Based on yelp reviews, took in my Jeep Compass to Advanced Auto. Ron and his crew were great! I hadn't taken my car in for a tune-up in ages, and they were very clear and honest about the repairs required and had the car completely done in a day. I feel really confident in recommending them to others. read more

Ron is something of an endangered species: the community mechanic. Trustworthy, diligent, honest, and skilled, he clearly cares about the satisfaction of his customers, the integrity of his business, and the art of auto mechanics. He's invested, and for that reason he may be the best mechanic around. I came to Ron by happenstance; a friend was out of town and loaned me her car, which ended up with a problem to fix and I used her mechanic. Ron was the 5th mechanic I've used to Santa Cruz, and the convenience, communication, and price he offered ranks Ron as the best. He quickly diagnosed the problem, didn't overcharge for labor hours, and was responsive - despite the obvious bustle in the shop - to my needs and inquiries. I'd recommend Advanced Auto highly. read more

Ron is the man!! he has saved me tons of money by not fixing things that weren't broken, and fixing the things that were. he has told me when it wasn't worth it to fix something because my car was old, and wouldn't last that much longer. Smart, honest...I have nothing bad to say about Advanced. Best mechanic I've ever had! read more

I dated a mechanic for eight years so I see through a lot of bullshit when it comes to auto repair shops. These guys are fast, honest, affordable and communicate very well with each other. Great customer service. I think I found my new mechanic. read more

Ron and his team of mechanics have taken excellent care of me/my car since I started using him in 2006. One thing that many people talk about with mechanics is whether they are being honest on what does and doesn't need to be repaired. I've never had that concern, to the contrary, there have been times I've had a budget.... and Ron has told me what repairs are urgent... and what could wait a couple months. No more 400 dollar 30k services. I recommend Advanced Auto to all my friends. read more

It is hard to find a mechanic you can trust. This place is honest and fair. I highly recommend Ron and his crew.

Honest people, fixed my headlight that no one else can fix. Even though it was only a missing fuse I had numerous of people look at it and no one else could fix it. It felt good driving out the lot paying only $20 when I was expecting to pay over 150+ read more

Having been totally ripped off by what had been my regular car maintenance shop (Wheelworks, Front St.), i went here to see if, as Wheelworks said, i really needed new front brakes. Tyler was very kind and helpful. Ron looked at my front brakes and called me out to see that they were just LIKE NEW. It was a relief to see with my own eyes that my intuition about being ripped off at Wheelworks was right. I appreciate having found an auto repair shop with integrity! I plan to make this my new car care shop. read more

I am so thankful for Advanced Auto! I called late notice and they were able to schedule me in on a Friday no questions asked! I would recommend anyone to this shop they get the job done when you need it and go the extra mile for you. Thanks Advanced Auto!!!! read more

Honest work. Reasonable prices. They know their stuff. What more could you ask for in an auto repair shop?

Had to use these guys one day when I was in a hurry. They are professional, fast, honest. The owner is a local family guy. I couldn't recommend a place with higher regard. I am not sure you can get better service than this place. read more

DISCLAIMER: Once you bring your car here, you will never want to bring your car anywhere else! I came in today for a check engine light on my car. Ron and his team not only did a diagnostic on my car, but he also checked for other problems that may not have been found on the computer! As Ron was walking me through what we would need to fix, I realized that the cost was out of my budget and decided not to get the work done. In the end, Ron's honesty and his genuine care for his customers won me over, and I would come back 10/10 times if I ever have car trouble in the area. Thanks Ron, Tyler, and the rest of the team at Advanced Auto! read more

I'm dusting off my dormant Yelp account to add another positive review, cause... Advanced Auto is fantastic! I have the peace of mind that I can bring the car in, discuss service options, have work done, and will receive ethical, honest advice and work. That, plus everyone is nice too. I've visited twice, once for an emergency check and recently for some preventative flushing of fluids. Left completely happy both times, at the service and affordability. Thank you Advanced Auto. read more

I've taken my cars to Ron at Advanced Auto for 15+ years. He does a great job, is honest, and has very fair pricing. I'll be going to him until he retires...ten thumbs up. read more

Best auto shop I've been to. Ron explains things clearly, without talking over your head, but is happy to answer any questions. I always feel like I'm being treated fairly, and the fees are reasonable. I've been here a few times now with no complaints. Great job, guys. read more

Thank You Ron!! I was stuck in Santa Cruz after having my car repaired in S.F. and notice oil leaking and smoke. A local friend recommended having Ron look at it. It was on a Friday and his lot was full but he made time to look at my car. As a woman I wanted to take it to someone trustworthy and Ron is! I highly recommend if you live in Santa Cruz taking your car in to Ron for repairs. read more

The crew at Advance Auto are the best. They go out of their way to help with any problem. This morning, I was stranded with a dead battery. Ron drove me back to my car himself and then jumped it so I get it going. He got me the part and in no time the car was fixed. In the meantime, the mechanic checked my tire pressure for me. I would recommend this shop to everyone who values good and immediate service. Any time I call with a problem, Ron says "bring it in anytime". read more

Ron and his crew at Advance Auto are the BEST! I recommend them to everyone who asks if I know of a good mechanic and have never gotten anything but rave reviews back. My whole family now brings their cars to Advanced Auto. If you are looking for a straight forward, honest mechanic this is the place to go! read more

Great service and very competent. I always get straightforward answers and whatever needs to be done gets done right the first time.

Ron and his staff are knowledgeable, honest, prompt and nice. I had to leave my car overnight, but got it back the next day. It was purring like a happy cat sans the gopher. Price to fix the car was very reasonable. Thanks, Ron, for your expert help.. read more

These guys are awesome! Ron has saved me hundreds and hundreds AND hundreds of dollars by being an honest mechanic and going out of his way to get things done. The customer service is also excellent, Tyler who runs the office is a very friendly and articulate person and is just easy to do business with. Lastly these guys know their trade, everyone that works here is experienced and knowledgeable. I highly recommend! read more

When I took my truck to Ron, he gave it a quick look and said it would take 30 minutes. He did the repair and he was right, it only took 30 minutes. My total cost was $50 labor and $30 for the part. I was in and out in 45 minutes. Before I had Ron look at my truck, I took it to the dealer in Capitola. They wanted $300 for the repair and $65 for a mandatory inspection (even though they already knew what the repair was). That's over 4 times the total price for the same repair. Overall, the guys at advanced auto were super friendly and flexible with my schedule. They gave me a straight quote, did what they said they would and now I'm a happy customer. read more

I was visiting in Santa Cruz 12/31/13 from WA state when I heard a bad noise from my car. I found Ron and Advanced on Yelp so went there. I was served quickly and efficiently, eventhough they were busy. Took my car for a test drive with me and checked everything out said it was safe to drive, has never made the noise again since, Ron did not charge me anything for this service. He was very kind and considerate. I would highly recommend him and the team at Advanced. Same name as my brother Ron and he has a son who lives in WA too. read more

I was visiting Santa Cruz. Heard one of those funny noises in my Lexus! Went to one place and they told me my alternator was going out!! I called Advanced Auto and told them what was going on. They took me right in, checked my car and told me I just needed a New Battery only!!! OMG this company saved my life!! So trust worthy!! They could have told me it was the alternator and charged me so much more money!! LOVE these guys!! If you don't go here, you shouldn't go anywhere!! Thank you so much!!! Xoxo read more

Ron is the most honest mechanic I've ever met. Our family has been loyal customers since he opened. My mom was one of his first customers and when I started driving he was always there to help with any issue or question. I recommend him to everyone. You can't go wrong and won't be disappointed. read more

My experience here was great. I needed my brakes serviced because I could feel them shake, especially when braking downhill. I called up Advanced Auto and Tyler was happy to fit me in the next day. I showed up at 9:30 and was greeted by Ron who told me they would have a look and then call me to let me know what the issue was. As promised I received a call a while later and the problem was warped front rotors. They explained the work they would do to fix it and then completed it in a timely manner. They saved me $$ by filing down my rotors rather than trying to sell me brand new ones. When I picked up my car, my bill was less than I originally expected and they even gave me helpful information and tips on WHY the rotors were warped. I like these guys, and I believe that this could be the start of a great relationship with a mechanic I feel I can trust. read more

Do not trust these people!!!!!!!! I had my car towed here after it just died on me while driving one day. The check engine light was on and the code was reading P0117 which shows up as Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor Circuit Low Input. They told us that the temperature sensor needed replacing along with replacing the EGR valve and that it would cost around 600 dollars. Well after they told us they had fixed everything, we were able to get our car started again and drive it off the lot but the check engine light was still on and the same code was still showing up saying we needed to replace our coolant temperature sensor and less than 24 hours later, our car broke down again in the same way it had the first time. But this time we had a different mechanic come and look at it and he took one quick look at our temperature sensor and told us it was old and super warn out. Than he replaced it for us and immediately after the check engine light turned off and our car started running great and we have not had any issues since than. So Ron and the other mechanics at Advanced Auto are extremely incompetent or most likely completely lied to us about replacing our sensor and charged us for work they did not do, leaving our car to break down again, most likely with the hope that we would bring it back to the shop for more work. Plus they charged us 116$ for replacing the coolant temp. sensor which again, they never actually did and the mechanic that really did change it for us only charged us 90 dollars. So these guys are con artists who wont hesitate to take advantage of people and lie. They are sketchy and money hungry and should not be trusted!!!!!! My gf and I have been talking with a lawyer and filed are currently in communication with the Beraue of Automotive Repair where we filed a complaint. read more

We will not take our cars anywhere else! Ron and his mechanics are reliable and trustworthy. They not only fix what you bring your auto in for, but take the time to look it over and suggest or just go ahead and fix the things they would if it were their own vehicle. Gotta lov'em! read more