Petra is great about keeping you informed and the mechanics do excellent work at reasonable prices. I have 2 Porsches. Took one to Porsche of Marin and was very unhappy. Took the other to Baldwin's and felt assured that what needed to be done would be done right and what didn't need to be done wouldn't be done just to charge me a fortune. They have a wait sometimes but the confidence is well worth it. read more

I took my 2015 Porsche 911 turbo s to Baldwin's for an oil change as their prices seemed more reasonable than other shops. They finished the oil change on time. When I got home, I noticed coolant dripping from the rear. I immediately called them as I thought it was oil. The owner immediately called me back and told me that to be safe I should not to drive the car. When I checked the coolant level was full. They arranged, at their cost, a flat bed to pick up the car. On examination (pressure test) it was determined that the coolant cap (they had checked the coolant) was likely old and not sealing well. They replaced the cap at their cost. No more leaks. I was impressed with their commitment to their custmers, honesty and highly recommend them. read more

Baldwin's German Autowerks - Auto Repair Near Me - Novato, California

Petra, the service advisor/office manager, is really friendly, extremely knowledgeable, and highly efficient. She goes "out of her way" to accommodate your vehicle needs and desires. The master tech, Shepard, is a true master with cars (a fantastic diagnostician and repair tech), and he's a great guy on top of that. Since they did such a fabulous job on my 2018 Audi A6, I brought my wife's 2016 Jetta Hybrid for a major service, and they did a fantastic job, really quickly, and at a very reasonable price. What's more, they are really honest as they tell you what things need to be addressed right away, what things can wait to be addressed, and the things that technically are in disrepair but don't really need to be addressed unless they bother you. This is truly and awesome place to take your German-make vehicles. read more

They've taken care of my 2006 325 for many years. With their help, it still runs decently at 173k miles. Friendly, knowledgeable, they make recommendations about what I may need to do next, and keep good records on the history of the car. If you live in Novato, or nearby, and have a BMW, they should be your first stop if you need help. read more

I took my car in a few times for smog and never had an issue. When I wanted to bring my car in for AC service and considering they specialize in German cars, I thought I was the in good hands. $300 and a month later the freon was gone and I was back to square one. When I called to ask if they ran a test before just putting freon in, the answer was no. I find it odd that if a new car does not have freon why you wouldn't test for a leak. They also told me that this was a common issue in my car and told me how expensive it was to fix the leak. So knowing that my car had an issue with AC leaks, they still decided to put the freon in and not do the right thing. I will not be going back and I will be telling everyone I can, not to patronize this shop. read more

I have a Prius, not a German car. I had been in the auto industry at almost every level most of my life I was reticent to go to a dealer again. My engine light had come on so I used my OBD2 tester to see what the problem was. It showed that the water pump was bad. This was confirmed in online blogs that that year Prius had water pump problems. I stopped at Baldwin's which is just down the street from where I live and asked how much they would charge for replacing the water pump. Petra gave me a price, complete, out the door, so I left the car for the repair. (Now see the last paragraph). Petra called me when the car was done (in a reasonable time), and the charge was exactly what she had quoted me. They also set the tire pressure (to the appropriate pressure), and they even cleaned the windshield. The car was left clean, free of the greasy fingerprints like I had experienced at other shops (and from guys, I had working for me). Now, for the person who complained that she did not get a written quote, well, an email is sufficient. Furthermore in many instances with some cars especially those with electronics (like all the newer ones), there may be additional problems that cannot be detected until the technician begins to dismantle the car. And lastly, as a service manager, I was always cautious with customers who seemed like they were trying to get me into a corner, or they mention their lawyer or the BAR. read more

Yesterday I took my wife and her Jeep to put air in the tires. The Shell filling station air pump was out of service. I drove across the street to Baldwins and asked the desk lady if I could check my tire pressure. She stopped what she was doing and spoke to an associate who got his air pump and proceeded to check the tire pressure. I felt guilty taking the associate away from his work to deal with my puny request. I greatly appreciate the kindness of this business. Hence I am writing this review to acknowledge it. I do not own a German car, but if I did I would bring it to this business. If they care enough to take care of a simple request, they must be good at what they do. Good people! Thank you again for your kindness. I won't forget it! read more

Just had the best experience at German Autowerks! After trying to get air at 2 different gas station, the pump kept taking air out . Now we're just about flat. I looked up and saw Autowerks, went over and met Manny who's smile you could see from behind his mask ! I asked if I could pay him to fill my tire. Not only did he fill the flat one but he also checked the others, for no money. In these tense times it is so refreshing to meet someone so positive. I have a Tesla that is still under warranty so I can't use them yet, but I would recommend them. read more

Petra is exceptional, she has been there for many years and I was incredibly impressed when I explained some of the issues I was having with my BMW and she pretty much diagnosed the issue and gave me a rough indication of cost over the phone. These guys are awesome, they are honest, efficient and don't try to upsell into maintenance or things you don't need. Highly, highly recommend them. read more

Baldwin's has done a very good repair work on our 2001 Volkswagen cabrio. They've always been very proactive and responsive in their communications with them. We highly recommend them. read more

Good fair experience. I came in with a check engine light that ended up being nothing more serious than the gas cap not being screwed on right. Brian gave me a discount on the cost of diagnosis. A few days later I had him do an alignment for the car. This is one of the few shops locally that services mini coopers. Additionally, they do a complete diagnosis and tell you what needs to be done in the coming months. read more

Petra (office staff) refused to provide an itemized estimate after an in-person visit to have my car looked at and after an email back-and-forth with my continued request (it actually is against CA law to not provide this, see CA bar site, Bureau of Automotive Repair). Brian (mechanic/owner) was incredibly nice and knowledgeable and would trust him to work on my car anytime with utmost care and attention. Without an itemized estimate I don't know why, but the cost was 20-46% higher than the other top-rated 5-star Bay Area german specialty shops I got estimates from. I'll assume it was just higher labor cost, would've liked to have known after seeing parts/labor breakdown. -- Description: I'm very disappointed to have not had the same excellent experience with Baldwin's as other reviewers have shared... Bashing a business or using a review to just get angry isn't me... I own two small businesses of my own and understand the impact of reviews. I do hope that this just helps out any prospective customers (as reviews are meant for them) as well as the business to understand why I couldn't choose them to complete my work and how I think they should have improved. I don't for a second doubt that the quality of work at this shop is 5 stars. I've seen all the other reviews Baldiwn's has and also had the chance to briefly chat with Brian after he took a look at my vehicle and to ask some questions. Brian was super kind and mellow and I could tell very knowledgeable. He gave me his advice on what to fix, what to prioritize, and I would've felt 150% confident and comfortable having him work on my car (a high mileage BMW Z4 which I love, my 2nd Z4). As a I left, I asked Petra if there was an estimate I could get and she said she'd email one to me. I thanked her and left. Later I received an email with no attachment, but just a typed out list of total costs for dealing with each component Brian had outlined that I should get done. I responded and asked if I could please also get a broken out estimate to show parts & labor separate (as the majority of shops typically provide, turns out because that's the law). Oftentimes I prefer to order parts on my own through FCP Euro since they provide lifetime any-reason replacement coverage and great rates. I prefer to know the breakdown so I can make an informed decision. However, Petra responded and did not provide any itemized list or breakout. She told me that I would get an estimate showing the parts and labor once I came in for the repair... I replied and asked if I could please get the broken out estimate before deciding to come in and have the work done at their shop, especially since I had just been there for the car to be looked at. She responded again saying "I'd already received estimate" to which I responded again that I wanted to know what I was being charged for parts and the estimate of labor cost. I informed that I've always received a broken out estimate like this from other shops. I didn't receive a response and so followed up to ask again if I'd be able to get an estimate with a breakout of the parts and labor. It had been 3 days after I had visited to have the car looked at. Petra's response was that she "didn't have time for it" and that they had already provided a "FREE inspection and estimates." She also said that "there are lots of choices out there in choosing the right repair shop. We don't sell our-self based on $. We sell our reputation, knowledge, honesty, quality work, pride of workmanship, and 'one on one' relationship with customer.... Good luck." Definitely not a great feeling to be told off with a "good luck" after having a great experience getting Brian's advice and feedback on what work to prioritize and explanations. Compared to other 5-star german specialty shops around bay area (Bavarian Auto Pros, Ed's AutoHaus, and DAS Auto in Daly City) Baldwin's was 20-46% more expensive. If honesty is something you sell yourself on more than price, be honest enough to show your breakout. I don't care if your labor costs more, I just want to have all the info to make an informed decision before spending $2-3,000 on my beloved car... It's also unreasonable to make me feel less-than by throwing at me that a "FREE inspection and estimate" was already provided... Every shop today provides a free estimate and to look at work that needs to be done to get the job to do it. 15-20min spent looking at my car is nothing unreasonable or extraneous. I myself am a contractor, web designer, who provides a service and I too provide free consultations for client projects. Lawyers as well. It's how good business is done. read more

Brian & Petra are the best! I have been a Porsche owner since 1998. A boxer was my first car out of college I love Porsche as no other brand compares as far as performance, however after years of taking my car to Porsche Dealerships and getting fleeced by them. I discovered Baldwins, my first experience I needed my front differential replaced, Brian quoted me 1/3 of the cost of the dealership! All Porsche OEM parts! needless to say, I have been taking my Porsche to him for all other maintenance, he just replaced my cabin air filter and it had mold on it!!! I am vigilant about the maintenance of my car, and the fact that the dealership never mentioned this to me or bothered to replace it, after years of service appointments, is unbelievable and speaks to the integrity of Baldwins, they care about the health, and safety of my family and I. If you own a Porsche I highly recommend, you give Balwins a try for your next maintenance need. I know you will be pleasantly surprised by the cost savings and integrity of Baldwins. read more

We drive from Petaluma so they can work on my wife's Audi TT. they are always consistent, professional and proactive which helps us avoid any potential issues down the road.What more can we say. One of the last honest mechanic's remaining in the world and maybe even the universe. read more

I agree totally with the first review of being ripped off by Brian Baldwin of Baldwin Auto Werks! I was ripped off and lied to today by non disclosure of obvious defects in an auto that were obvious to another shop who spotted the problems as soon as the hood was opened up, (after driving directly from Baldwins shop to the other shop.) I noticed the problems once pointed out to me by the other shop. Thank God for the other shop! I am concerned for future customers at Baldwins. read more

Absolutely the best experience I've had with a car/mechanic shop. Integrity and customer service top notch. Very honest and fair and super efficient. Would highly recommend Baldwin's. Thank you! Linda read more

Personal and caring service, is what I think of when it comes to these guys. They do the job, do it right and do it for a reasonable price. Let's face it, no German car place is gonna be cheap, as German cars and parts are not cheap. But they certainly are not overly expensive. They've helped me keep my old Golf running for many years and are very good about letting me know what's optional and what is not. I have a very hard time believing other posts, claiming someone at Baldwin's lied about needed repairs. I think it must have been a misunderstanding. I say this because there have been a few items when I brought the car in, expecting a big bill and driving away with a 10th of what I expected. Plus, they even dropped me off at home, when my car struggled into their lots, and then once it was fixed, dropped the car off at my house. read more

Definitely recommend German Autowerks! Reasonable rate and honest! Doesn't suggest service that's not needed. Keeps my BMW serviced and in good repair. read more

We Love Baldwins German Auto Werks!! Petra is always so happy to help an make things happen fast for us! We really appreciate such service! Today as an example my tire was acting up, not even thinking about it i popped in to see if they could help. Back on the road in NO TIME-. I trust their work and know they are the only one that touches our cars! Thx Guys! read more

Always helpful, honest and reasonably priced. I've used Baldwin's German Autowerks for over twenty years and will continue to do so!

Have not encountered the most ethical or honest treatment for my VW New Beetle as this particular repair shop. Wanted to give it a try because it is walking distance from my job, however more then once I have felt "ripped off" by them...they charge a whopping $149. for an oil change!!! which, like Doreen, should have asked before just leaving the car, and they charge by the minute to give you an assessment, whether it is a correct one or not. Ended up going back to a lovely repair shop in San Rafael where they don't nickel and dime you and treat you with better respect. While the office help is nice, the owner is very combative and argumentative. They not only lost me as a customer, but I would never recommend them to anyone for anything at anytime. read more

I have had my Audi Q5 here and feel the crew is knowledgeable and honest, I will continue to use them.

O Brain , What can I say you have helped me so much over the past few years. As anyone who owns a German car, knows your service cost almost wear down the fun of driving their cars. Brian has been a god send. After a faulty pair of brake pads was put on my car, he replaced them free of charge. read more

I had an excellent experience with Baldwin's German Autowerks. The VW dealership told me turbo needed to be replaced. I got a quote from Baldwin's and it was almost $1K less. While working on the car the mechanical found another problem that was supposed to have been fixed by VW. Turned out that changed the wrong sensor. He checked their work and I ended up going back to VW to get the work I paid for done right. I am very impressed with their knowledge of my car. The car runs well now. read more

Home run once again. Always honest approach, no overselling, and the new mobile update/notification app/text process improves on an already great experience. Thanks again guys!! read more

Kind of blown away by my great experience. Took my car same day and had repairs done in 24 hrs., and it wasn't minor stuff. Price was more than fair and the owner's couldn't be nicer. I forgot an item at home and they said to jump in their car and get what I need. To all PRIUS drivers like myself, save yourself time, headache, and upsell the Dealer will give you and take it to German Autowerks for a smooth ride. read more

We have two older Mercedes that are looked after by Baldwin's. They are fantastic to work with, totally professional and honest as the day is long. We love Petra (and Brian too!). Chris and Tara, Novato. read more

Straight forward communication on my M3. In and out in a jiffy and below original quote for the repair. Definitely coming back to these folks! read more

Excellent service, very honest, and trustworthy! Petra the advisor is so kind and polite. Brian and the technicians are awesome too! They kept me updated as they worked on my car if any issues came up. I felt like my BMW was in great hands at German Autowerks! read more

Brian, the mechanic that was to do a pre-purchase inspection for a Mercedes-Benz I was looking at greeted me with a mouthful of sandwich. He's a competent mechanic and found so much stuff wrong with the car that it made the near $200 bill easier to take since I didn't get stuck w/a lemon. This amt was twice as much as other PPI's I've pd for in the last 2 weeks. At least he gave me a detailed list and explanation of what he found. He even invited me along on the test drive part and explained what he was listening for which was cool. i just didn't like paying hourly instead of flat rate like all of the other shops. The shop was clean, easy to find and the receptionist was ok to deal with. They had the type of equipment i expected (good hoist system, computer to test cars) and a waiting room with cushy chairs. Low stars due to price surprise. Guess I should have asked, tho. read more

Professional, knowledgeable, and reasonable -- we trust these guys with both of our cars (Audi A3 and Porsche 968). Absolutely recommended!

This is the second time I've brought my vehicle in to Baldwin's and yet again, I'm impressed. They turned what the dealership said was an $800 overnight job into a $300 2 hour job, and threw in a complimentary service inspection of the entire vehicle! Highly recommend. read more

A quick check online, I found Baldwin's. I needed a brake light replaced, and was pleasantly surprised at the expedience, kindness, and graciousness of Brian! And i thought the word service had become passe in the English language. Kudos to Baldwin Autowerks! read more

Knowledgeable, caring and honest! I had diagnosed bad oxygen sensor, the part was ordered but when it discovered it was only disconnected, there was no charge. Also, I appreciate very much being informed that other items that need maintenance can be done at a later date and in combination to reduce repair bills. read more

The team at Baldwin's is awesome. Brian, Petra and Sheppard as well as the other technicians are all great people and really care for their customers. Their work is some of the best I've seen from any auto shop, including dealerships. Great work, great prices, and timely. This will be the only shop that I will let work on my car, as long as I'm in the area. Thank you for everything Baldwin's. read more

I think this shop does a great job. All the work that has been done seems to have been done well and in a clean and professional manner. I take both of my BMW's exclusively here. The mechanics here are friendly and professional and seem very competent. I have never felt nickel and dimed here after several years of coming here. I am naturally suspicious of auto repair places based on past experience. I am also a bit picky since I happen to be an engineer. At this point I unconditionally recommend Baldwins. read more

Brian, Shepard, and Petra have taken care of my german cars since 2000. I went to Baldwins after my Porsche mechanic in San Rafael, closed, and yo and behold, Shepard was now at Baldwins, and continued to service my Porsche until this spring when I sold it. They have been spot on on service for both of my BMW 540i's, my daughters 318i convertible, and our X5. They advise me on what really needs to be done, and are accessable and willing to chat about what may happen as cars age. I will continue to do business with them when needed, and recommend them to all german car owners. PS, they even have a loaner Mercedes. Who could imagine? read more

Can't say enough about how great these folks are to work with. Super responsive, very fairly priced, and quality workmanship. So refreshing to deal with an establishment this competent and trustworthy! read more