Automax Service Center

(606 reviews)

Informative about the services. Great communication and so quick. Finished in 10 mins.read more

Excellent! Inquired…read moreon yelp and received a message back in less than 20 minutes. Less than an hour later a technician arrived to begin work. Would recommend this company to others, and will use again in the future for any similar needed services.

Performance Auto Service & Repair

(284 reviews)

I can't express how grateful I am for Performance Auto Repair in Costa Mesa. Even though I live all…read morethe way in Chino, something about their reviews made me feel like I could trust them -- and I was right. When my SUV overheated and the engine failed, I was overwhelmed. But the moment I spoke with them, it felt like a weight lifted. They understood exactly what was happening before they even saw the car. Instead of pushing a costly $6,000 engine replacement, Byron found a way to rebuild the engine through a machine shop, saving me thousands. That kind of honesty is rare. The repairs took time, but they never rushed. They kept us updated, checked every detail, and refused to release the vehicle until they were absolutely sure there were no leaks, no issues, no surprises. After dealing with another shop that returned our Honda Pilot with oil leaks, this level of care meant everything. What stood out most was their integrity. Their kindness. Their commitment to doing the right thing even when it takes longer or costs them more effort. If we lived closer to Costa Mesa, we'd bring every one of our vehicles here without hesitation. There truly aren't enough words to describe how thankful I am for Byron and his team. They didn't just fix my SUV -- they restored my trust in what an honest auto shop can be.

I recently moved to Costa Mesa, and when I discovered power steering fluid all over the ground, I…read moreneeded to find a mechanic quickly. With plenty of shops nearby, I went through the reviews and Performance Auto immediately stood out. People consistently mentioned their honesty, expertise, and customer service, and my experience lived up to those reviews. They were able to diagnose and repair the issue within a few hours, kept me informed throughout the process, and clearly explained what was happening. Since several different things could have caused the leak, I appreciated how thoroughly they evaluated it and accurately identified the problem. Luckily, it turned out to be a relatively minor repair. Everyone was friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely helpful during a stressful situation. The repair also cost much less than I anticipated, which was a welcome surprise. It's great to already have a local mechanic I can trust, and I'll definitely be returning to Performance Auto for any future automotive needs.

DNZ Automotive

4.6

(161 reviews)

I am so grateful for this place. I don't know much about cars, but Aaron made the whole experience…read moreentirely easy and stress-free for me. He has wonderful manners, and his clear communication, explanations and attentiveness made me feel so looked after. I felt like he went above and beyond by fixing things I didn't even ask for, all for what I believe is more than a fair price. His kindness and professionalism really stood out, and my car seems to be running perfectly now. Thank you, Aaron and DNZ.

I previously left a five-star review because I had a good experience here. At the time, EU was…read morehonest enough to tell me I didn't need a tire rotation, which saved me money as a student. Because of that, I came back for multiple oil changes. Unfortunately, my most recent visit was completely different. I was charged a high price for what should have been a simple oil change and cabin/air filter replacement, and I ended up waiting about two hours for the work to be completed. After talking it through with someone more familiar with car maintenance, it became clear that I was likely overcharged for a job that should have been quicker and more reasonably priced. What made the experience worse was the interaction before my appointment. When I asked for clarification about being told I may need "air," EU laughed at me for asking. I'm neurodivergent and sometimes take things more literally, so I was just trying to confirm whether I was being charged for something that is often free. Instead of explaining, I felt mocked for asking a simple question. Because of this experience, I no longer feel comfortable or confident returning here. I'm sharing this as a caution for other customers--especially women and neurodivergent people--who may not be as familiar with car maintenance and rely on mechanics to be honest, respectful, and transparent.

Harbor Auto Service Center

(462 reviews)

This has become my new trusted mechanic for all of our car needs…read more As a woman who has driven used cars for most of her life, going to a trusted mechanic is hard to find. I used to go to mechanics in Santa Ana but was not always able to get the services I needed. Now with a new car, I was tired of getting price gouged for a simple oil change at the dealership. At Harbor Auto Service, Mike and John get the job done at an affordable price and take customer service to the next level. For example, when you have already paid and are all set, they park the car right outside for you and send you on your way. They are respectful and take the time to explain what is wrong with the car and give you plenty of options. They also have a nice waiting room with a tv, couches, and offer water as you wait. I have been here twice, and each time has been pleasant. I am already recommending them to all of my friends and family as a solid, trusted choice!

If I could give zero stars, I would give it…read more Mike at Harbor Auto is a complete fraud and does what he can to steal your money. I made the mistake of taking my car back to Harbor Auto after an issue with a new battery that they installed for me a few years ago which died literally a few days later because they messed up putting things back together. Fast forward to my latest predicament. A few weeks ago, my car was dying on the freeway. Had no idea what was going on, but noticed it was not going higher than 1800 RPMs and not going higher than 2nd gear. It put itself into protective mode. I managed to get myself to an Autozone and they scanned the car and got a few codes outlining what the issue was. I said I would get it to a mechanic in the morning. Unfortunately, I made the mistake of taking it to Mike at Harbor Auto. The codes Autozone provided were: P2191 and P1326 and then some commentary about it being my PCV Valve that needed replacing too. I showed these codes/printout to Mike and he said "don't worry, we'll take a look and get it figured out". I waited nearly the whole day before I called Mike to get an update, he said he would call me back with updates "soon". He then called me about 20 mins later suggesting that it might be my catalytic converter that might need replacing. I was curious because there was no indication that my catalytic converter was an issue. I looked up prices on my own to get an idea of what the price range could look like while waiting for Mike to call me back. He calls back and confirms "its definitely your catalytic converter and I'm not sure if you're going to want to put up the $$$ to replace it." He then quotes me $3,175.00 for a a new catalytic converter. I'm floored because the research I did for my car (2011 Hyundai Sonata LE) was approx $1200 for a Hyundai converter or something between $800-1000 for a 3rd party converter. I was already pissed by this point. I just told Mike I'm taking the car back and to leave it alone. I knew he was trying to literally swindle me and I don't know why. Maybe he just didn't want to do the work on the car? Maybe he had NO idea what he was doing? Either way, this just confirmed that I would never go to Harbor Auto Service again. I spoke with my neighbor whose a mechanic as a hobby that night, told him everything that was going on and he agreed that Mike was trying to bamboozle me for the money! He gave me a great suggestion which was to get a second opinion which is exactly what I did. I then took it where he takes his cars which is literally right next door to Harbor Auto to a place called Costa Mesa Transmission. He let the owner Arturo know that I was coming. I took my car to Arturo the following morning and I gave him the same rundown of what was going on. He did some research on the codes from the scanner the other day and calls me back within 2 hours of drop off saying they can't do anything with the car BUT that there was a warranty/recall situation with Hyundai related to my scanned codes. He said I should call Hyundai service first to see if they could take a look at the car which is exactly what I did. Hyundai took the car and it was indeed covered under one of their warranties/recall notices. So everything was going to be covered by Hyundai for free. Arturo also did not charge me a dime when I went to pick it up and take it to Hyundai. THIS IS THE TYPE OF PERSON I WISH TO DO BUSINESS WITH IN THE FUTURE!!! PLEASE AVOID HARBOR AUTO SERVICE AT ALL COSTS!!! TAKE YOUR CAR NEXT DOOR TO COSTA MESA TRANSMISSION INSTEAD!!! SEE ARTURO!!! They do standard work like oil changes, etc and a lot of other work besides just transmissions. You will be saving money and grief by avoiding Harbor Auto Service. I knew from the jump that it was a mistake to take it back to Harbor, but I was desperate to find a place that opened early in the morning. When I should've literally drove my car another 20 feet in the same driveway and taken it to Costa Mesa Transmission. @Mike, I want my $160.00 you charged me back as a refund. You honestly should be ashamed of yourself for attempting to gouge your customers the way you tried with me. Absolutely shameful.

EZ-Brakes

(769 reviews)

Easiest brake job I've ever done. lol. E-Z brakes were on time, had the work done quickly, and with…read morethe correct parts .....very friendly from start to end. I definitely definitely will be using them in the future. Thank you Neal

Helpful guys and explained everything thoroughly to me despite my extreme lack of car knowledge…read more Helped break it down and honest throughout the process. A little more expensive then initially quoted but to be fair my car was a hot mess and a worse problem then expected but still fair price. They came to me and my car and been running well since! Even easy texts for follow up after on what I should do, for any random lights that came Update: waiting for a call back! I lost the cell they gave me

H & A Auto

(190 reviews)

10/10: Friendly, professional, and efficient…read more I was losing tire pressure and while they ultimately couldn't patch the tire, they still asked me to come in to troubleshoot it for me, just to confirm the issue. I'm not mechanically skilled, so it was good to see how they checked for puncturing. And by extension, showing that work is being done. Some other shops will say they did services but just cold pitch it to upsell. I appreciate the team for helping me get on my way. Because they are dedicated to helping people, I'd definitely recommend them. Thank you again.

I gave up on my 2006 Acura TL last year, but Jeff basically maintained it for the last 5 years of…read moreits life. He also did some oil changes on my S2000 on occasion. I'm in a newer car now, so I might not be visiting until it's no longer dealer maintained, but Jeff was wonderful to work with and a very honest person. I'm sort of leaving this as a thank you for that service, knowing I might not be able to return for awhile. His service was also provided during a tough time in my life. He always charged me a fair price which is why I respect him a lot. I've never had a BS service recommended by him. Everything is "hey, look at this" or "this is what is wrong". If you are looking for an independent mechanic H & A auto is a trustworthy place that still exists in this day and age.

Costa Mesa Auto Service Center

(99 reviews)

The service and staff definitely value fixing my vehicle. James went above and beyond, grateful for…read morehis knowledge and was super helpful when explaining my vehicles diagnostic issues. They value their customers and they were honest about the process. Loved how they showed me a diagram to explain it better.

I can't say nothing but great things about this shop. I felt with James who truly values customers…read moreand always does his best at fair pricing and exceptional service. My muffler, pipe, and catalic converter was jacked up. He helped me fixed the pipe and muffler the best he can and he notified me that there was still a warranty on my vehicle so he didn't touch it and he gave me fair pricing. When I took my car to Chevy, they were so unprofessional and dumb. I had James explain what's going on with my vehicle and how Chevy had to honor my warranty, but Chevy Costa Mesa were being lazy. They didn't even look at the vehicle but diagnosed it just by hearing it. I brought my vehicle back to James and he took pictures and referred me to HB Chevy and he didn't charge me. James and his shop are truly about the people and getting their vehicle fixed. His shop and customer service is something every auto shop should emulate. I will always go to this shop for my auto needs. Chevy Costa Mesa can get bent. Thank you again James for you and your crew.

Rover Driver Mobile Service

(39 reviews)

I can't say enough good things about Max. He's a true steward of cars and a genuine motorhead who…read moreclearly cares about his craft. He's knowledgeable, honest, and practical about what your vehicle actually needs -- what should be handled now and what can wait. That kind of transparency is rare. Max is also a man of his word. If he tells you he can do something, you can trust that he'll follow through. I originally found Max here on Yelp while looking for someone to help with a routine Service A on my 2018 Range Rover HSE Td6. Since then, he's done a number of maintenance items for me, and the truck has been running great through multiple trips and adventures. Work he's done includes: Cabin filter replacement (at cost -- very reasonable) Front and rear differential fluid service Transfer case oil service Coolant system flush and refill Brake fluid refresh Transmission service Routine diesel maintenance, including DEF refills when needed I've also called him for a few other things over time, and he's always been responsive and able to handle them quickly and conveniently. If you have a Range Rover or similar vehicle and want someone you can trust for maintenance and service, Max is a great alternative to going to the dealer.

I was looking for a mechanic to change my brake pads. Max…read morecame and found out actually Ihave a much bigger issue with the coolant system. It took him two days and he completed the job including replacing many parts and changing engine oil. Max is amazingly knowledgeable . He is organized, clean, honest, quietly working through this process. I'm glad i have found someone who I can trust my car with. And I have other jobs with him coming soon. I will definitely recommend him.

Newport Hills Auto Care & 76

4.6

(47 reviews)

Super honest and efficient staff. Mike is very knowledgeable and takes pride in his work…read more Definitely recommended!

Everyone here is super reliable, fast, and helpful. I have a great experience every time I come by!read more

Mike's Costa Mesa Auto Service

4.5

(133 reviews)

Quick, easy, was able to get in right away. Didn't feel overcharged, very trustworthy, and great…read moretiming with estimated wait time. Highly recommend!

Honestly, hands-down 10 out of 10 everyone here is super kind, respectful and understanding and…read morevery sweet. My biggest thing is honesty when it comes to these kinds of things and they were nothing but insightful and helpful. It is a beautiful family business and even talking to customers that were there as well everyone has had such a positive experience, and I felt the need to write about mine as well. They do a lot of different services and for the value of honesty and thrones they are the best in town highly recommend!!!

Monaco Wheel Restoration

(233 reviews)

I had curb rash on my Corvette C8 after a wheel shop damaged it while changing my tires, so I…read morestarted getting quotes. Most places told me the damage wouldn't blend well and that full powder coating was the only real solution. Monaco Wheels assured me they could repair it and match it so I wouldn't notice the damage--and they were right. The repair took less than an hour and the wheel looks great. Really appreciated the honesty, speed, and quality work. I'll definitely be using them again if needed.

WOW..What an AMAZING job! They came to my house, were fast, efficient and made a literal miracale…read morehappen...Amazingly affordable, convenient (they came to me in Las Vegas) and workmanship!!!!! Highly recommended

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Ricardo C.

5 years ago

Automax used to have another shop in Tustin, CA about 9 years ago when I first got my car serviced by them. Since then, they've helped me with regular services and repairs with different vehicles - two Lincoln Navigators, a BMW 650 and a Jaguar XJ. While Automax prices for regular service are a just bit higher than what some regular mechanic shops may charge, I like Automax's professionalism, cleanliness, and honesty. Hence, when compared to what a dealer service center would charge, Automax offers extremely good value and I don't mind paying a bit more, just to have peace of mind. Jeff, the service coordinator, is straightforward and dependable. In my most recent repair, he managed to get an original Ford/Lincoln replacement part expedited from Michigan and kept me updated on the progress of the repair, which took two days. In contrast, I had previously called 3 different Ford service centers and all 3 dealers wanted me to leave the car for 3-5 days parked at their facility before a technician would even have time to diagnose what my car needed. That was ridiculous since we depend so much on our vehicles. I will continue considering Automax for my car services needs. read more

Nicholas Roman N.

8 years ago

I just hope Yelp does not remove my frank open and honest opinion. Sharing honest opinion is what Yelp is & should be all about. Was charged hefty for a simple service A for my Mercedes. The Mercedes dealers (all authorized by Mercedes Benz Co.) all charge about 1/2 of what these guys charged me. When i complained, they said we "go above & beyond of what they offer"! Their above and beyond was keep me waiting for 4.5 hours on pretty straight forward and standard service. Meanwhile i talked to some of their workers. I am an engineer myself and know about engines. Seemed to me, except for one of them, the owner hires cheap mechanics who do not know much about engine & they are learning on the job at the expense of my car. Will never go back. BTW, some of these reviews are by their own people or their relatives. This is what one of the employees (not a happy one) shared with me. Whether true or not, i do not know. But some of these 5 stars seems suspicious. I just hope Yelp does not remove my frank open and honest opinion. Sharing honest opinion is what Yelp is & should be all about. read more

Cletis O.

17 years ago

I was referred to Mark's by my neighbor who has been taking his car there since he's had a car. Before that his parents took their cars to Mark when he was at a different location. I've been there a few times now and it's been great. They take me to work and pick me up when the car is done (or when I'm done working). John is usually at the front desk, but Mark is on-site and is real great explaining, in plain English, what exactly is the problem with my car. So far, everything has been on time, priced right and very professional. It does cost a bit more than Jiffy Lube type places, but you don't have to deal with the punk kids that are running those. I like talking to guys about cars, and I mean guys that actually know about cars, so to me the bit of extra cost is worth it. I've finally found "my mechanic". read more

Anna N.

4 months ago

I had such a great experience with this service center! Early in the morning, on my way to work, I was actually heading to a gas station to air up my tire when I realized it was in much worse shape - it was almost blown out, and I was really stressed and didn't know what to do. I was so lucky to find this wonderful team nearby and stop in for help. They helped me right away and, within just 10 minutes, had a spare tire on my car. They didn't even charge me, which I truly appreciate. It honestly felt like they saved my morning. I'm very grateful for their kindness, quick response, and professionalism. Huge thank you to Jeff and his crew - you really came through when I needed it most. Highly recommend! read more

Marcus D.

12 years ago

I have been taking my cars to Brian for years for the basic service, tires, tuneups, oil etc. and have always had great service. My Porsche 911 Turbo was leaking a little oil so I made the mistake of taking it to Newport Auto Center, the Porsche, Audi and Bentley dealer here in town. After a thorough check by a Porsche Certified Mechanic, I was told the only option was to replace the entire transmission at a cost of $21,000.00 (not a typo!) I brought it to Automax and within a day they completely fixed the leak for under $500. read more

Sermin B.

7 years ago

When we left our hotel to go to San Diego, our car started making a funny noise. Pulled into Automax. Eddi , the repair manager immediately figured out what it was. They took the car in, reattached the underbody shield at the front, and got us on our way within 20 minutes. Very reasonable price too. Wish all repair shops were this nice and efficent read more

Kenneth B.

3 years ago

Fed up with mechanics who claim to fix your issue only for it to resurface two weeks later? Look no further. I stumbled upon Automax Service Center off Camelback, and let me tell you, these guys are the genuine article. Honesty and integrity are their guiding principles, and Jeff and his crew are committed to getting the job done right. read more

Tammy S.

4 months ago

I had such a great experience with Automax! From start to finish, their team was incredibly friendly and courteous, making the whole process easy and stress-free. They worked quickly and efficiently without cutting corners. It's refreshing to find a place that delivers both excellent service and real value. Highly recommend! read more

Ryan B.

13 years ago

They are so professional with their job. Love coming at the place and here not for first time but several times here. Anyone can ask me why -the easiest answer is as a better server here. They ask very few charge at this place. Highly recommend the place. Must come back to.......... read more

Brock L.

11 years ago

Jeff made sure that the service I received was first class. He made sure I was kept in the loop as far as estimates of cost and completion time. read more

Lori T.

9 years ago

If I could give them 10 stars, I would. Love, love, love this place. Service is always friendly, fair and timely. read more

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My go to guys. I get it. Luxury cars are not cheap to maintain. Originally, I took my car to the…read moredealer for maintenance and repairs but after being charged an exorbitant amount of money for very slow and shoddy service, I came to European Import Service. These guys are the best, thoughtful, professional and excellent. For service, quality and value, European Import Service is the place. Victor and his son are the best!!!

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My mechanics reside here! Guaranteed to find the repair you'll need with Ryan. Fairest mechanic…read moreshop in the city, they take their time to make sure you're serviced right, with quality and value of parts. They'll talk to you all of the way through your vehicles repair stay. Diagnostic done, expected phone call for what's wrong and what they can do to keep that price down, parts prices are communicated and service hours expected but typically work hard to keep those hours down, see, most people don't understand that when your car comes apart for repairs that other opportunities to do preventative maintenance present themselves, allowing you take advantage of the service savings. Ask Ryan, he's saved me $1000's by having those conversations with me, no pressure sales here EVER! Even had the ultimate experience with this shop, when they called to say, it's time to let her go, let's perform minimum to bring back to road worthy and call one of those Car places that buy cars as is and sometimes it's not worth the money necessary to fix the car. Most mechanics would just fix the immediate and not tell you while the car was apart they saw other issues that'd have you back in a month and another $1000+ in service costs!

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