I've been going to Joe Miracle at Bay Auto for years. He was originally recommended to me by a dear friend's mom, who trusted him completely--he had taken care of her 4Runner since she bought it in the late 1990s. My friend has since passed, but even now, more than 10 years later, her son still stops by to say hello to Joe whenever he's in town. He always tells me, "Joe took care of my mom's car for over 20 years--it's just nice to come say hi." That really says everything about the kind of person Joe is. I bring multiple cars to him, including one that's definitely more of a headache than the others (a bit of a bad egg), and he's always been honest and incredibly fair. There was even a recurring issue with that car that he kept fixing without charging me--he said I had already paid for it once and didn't charge me for the labor. As a woman, I've had some not-so-great experiences with mechanics over the years, so I feel really lucky to have found Joe. He's a genuinely good man and an excellent mechanic. I always joke with my husband that I'm more loyal to my mechanic than any hairstylist. If you love older cars, you know how rare it is to find someone skilled, honest, and fair. I can't recommend Joe and Rob enough! read more

I rarely leave negative reviews, but I feel compelled to share this experience because of how my son was treated. My son recently moved to the Los Angeles area and drives a late-1980s Chevrolet pickup. While driving, the truck suffered a catastrophic failure of the right front lower control arm, making it unsafe to drive. AAA towed the truck to Bay Auto Service. Before the truck was even unloaded from the tow truck or inspected, the person my son spoke with, who I believe was the manager, told him he could expect a repair bill of up to $2,500. Since my son had just relocated and was on a limited budget, he called me for advice. I spoke directly with the manager and asked whether anyone had actually inspected the truck or confirmed the cause of the failure. He admitted they had not. Instead, he immediately focused on whether my son had money to spend. He stated that it wasn't worth trying to help someone if they didn't have money. My son may have limited funds, but I do not, and I was prepared to help if the repair was justified. The conversation became even more disappointing when he proudly said, "No moolah, no fixie." He also stated that even if we wanted the truck repaired there, they couldn't even look at it for at least two weeks. He added that both of his mechanics were too old to push around a large truck. What bothered me most was not that they were busy or that the repair might have been expensive. Shops get backed up, and repairs can cost money. What bothered me was the complete lack of professionalism, empathy, and willingness to help someone who was clearly dealing with an emergency. A simple inspection or a respectful conversation would have gone a long way. Fortunately, we found a tire and repair shop next door. They immediately looked at the truck at no charge, correctly diagnosed the failed lower control arm, quoted a very reasonable $450 for the repair, and completed the work the very same day. That is what customer service looks like. My experience with Bay Auto Service was the exact opposite. Whether the person I spoke with was the manager or the owner, I hope this serves as constructive feedback. Treating people with respect costs nothing. Even when someone cannot immediately afford a repair, they deserve honesty, courtesy, and compassion rather than arrogance and dismissive comments. I cannot recommend Bay Auto Service based on this experience. read more

Bay Auto Service - Actual repair - Auto Repair Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Took my 95 Ford Bronco to Joe to do maintenance and fix some electrical stuff like the locks and windows. Joe was great and very knowledgeable. Thanks Joe! read more

Honest, helpful great mechanic gave me some great information about my Volvo and my GMC truck. If you need to work done give me a call.

Been going to Joe for years ,company trucks and classics , he's definitely a remove and replace kinda mechanic , if there's and fab work or custom work I would recommend going elsewhere, they sent my C10 truck over to a muffler shop , 8 quarts low on tranny fluid, and 0 powers tearing fluid , was severely over charged and completely disappointed ! Needless to say I will not ever be going back read more

I have been taking my cars to Bay Auto for over 20 years. I may not understand the car language or how to fix mechanical issues, but i am always explained by Joe what is needed to make my car function and be safer on the roads. I keep my cars for a long time. I made a mistake one time and got a simple oil change somewhere else that ended up ruining my car and costing over $1200 to fix. I had it towed to Joe and he got on the phone with this franchise and explained what the techs did wrong and I got my money back. Joe fixed the issue and I'm happy to tell you it was only a 1/3 of the cost. Unfortunately, we live in a time where businesses are money hungry and take advantage of their customers. I can honestly say that when you bring your car to Bay Auto you will not be taken advantage of. You will be asked permission first for approval to fix your car knowing an approximate price before having it serviced. Joe is great mechanic and has your best interest. Side note, when you go to Bay Auto you will see some cool relics and signs. Ask him about them. read more

A truly awesome experience, they are what the reviews say they are, honest. They aren't out to lie to people and I can say that because they kept my car overnight, determined it was a problem for the dealership to look at and didn't charge for the time and insight. They've got my business moving forward and now I know where to send people who ask if I know any GOOD mechanics! read more

I'm from Arizona on vacation and my car started acting funny. I was so nervous to take it to be serviced by a stranger but the reviews for bay auto specifically mentioned their honesty so i decided to go for it and crossed my fingers they weren't planted reviews. First, the antiques in this place are super cool. The mechanics who helped me were very knowledgeable and friendly. I immediately felt at ease. They worked on my car, kept in communication with me, and told me honestly that I would be able to drive back safely and that it would be a cheaper fix at home then what they would charge. They went above and beyond to make sure they checked everything out and even wrote down everything they found for my mechanic at home and let me know my mechanic could call them with any questions. So very grateful for Bay Auto! read more

Fantastic! Honest and down to earth. I'll never go anywhere else from now on.

I do not recommend them. Took my car in to get brakes fixed and even though they had it up on the lift they didnt fix the problem which was easy because you could see the brake line leaking ABOVE the rear axle. 20.00 part they never replaced and charged me over 600.00 i fixed it myself. Also have a white interior that looked like they had a bbq in it. They also charged me 1200.00 to fix power steering which i also had to redo... Dont waste your money. read more

I've been taking my cars in to Joe and for at least three years. Like some here, I was referred by Stacy. I brought my 2000 Toyota Sienna Van to Bay Auto first. It was a piece of junk but Joe took good care of it and didn't overcharge me. I referred my friend Michelle to Bay Auto and she also had a great experience. THEN I bought a new car and foolishly started using the dealership for my maintenance. They recently told me that my rear brakes needed to be fixed right away at a cost of almost $200. I thought something seemed fishy as the car is still pretty new. (around 26k miles) I took it in to Joe and he told me the truth. The truth was, I DIDN'T need my brakes fixed! I appreciate this kind of honestly. Who has money to waste on needless repairs? I'll never cheat on Bay Auto again! read more

Couldn't get my car to start and had it towed to Bay Auto. Joe did quick work and I was back up and running in no time. Great guy, great shop. Highly recommend. read more

Joe of bay auto is a great mechanic and he's honest, thats all you need to know..Oh he's a good guy..When I need one of my vehicles fixed, I go to bay auto.. read more

Always good and honest service . Old school shop that will repair what is needed and charges a fair price read more

I have been looking for a shop that can work on my '79 Corolla for years. I came across dozens and none got my business until by chance I found this place. Honestly this is the only shop I'd let work on my car. They're knowledgeable and they get the job done quick. Best thing is I needed a miracle to get my car fixed and the mechanic's name is Miracle. What a coincidence. read more

I can't say enough good things about Joe and Bay Auto. He is highly caring and very professional. My 2001 Blazer failed SMOG. I was devastated and scared. The car has been reliable and satisfactory in all aspects. I followed all advice about long drives and rechecks. He replaced the thermostat but it didn't fix it. He found out why it wasn't smogging because of a relay in the pump which wasn't opening. After the next fix and long drive he told me it was going to pass so I went for my recheck and IT PASSED!!! My name is Jeff, Lynn is posting this for me. Many thanks for saving me and my car. read more

Joe and Rob have helped me out numerous times over the years with my old pick up truck. You get quick, and quality service and Joe doesn't try to upsell you. It's rare to find a mechanic with his knowledge from very old vehicles to new ones, they will take care of you or steer you to a specialist that will. I highly recommend Bay Auto Service. read more

My cousin recommended this place to me. He typically goes to a long-time trusted mechanic in Santa Ana but he wasn't too happy with the quote he was given for a repair on a few of the coolant hoses and whatnot. He came to this place to see if he can get a bette reprove and he was quoted $1,000 cheaper! I came here to get a coolant hose repair and I thought I paid a fair price of $270. My car is very old but very well taken care of and thanks to Joe and his guys I have it up and running again. Great service! And prompt work. read more

Wow! My husband and I really needed help getting our breaks fixed and I called this shop based on the good reviews but had no idea I'd find such a gem. Joe was upfront and honest. I was freaking out because money was tight and he made me feel at ease. Ultimately, we were able to get our car fixed and got it back quickly. Joe really made me feel like everything was going to be okay, and it was...thanks to him. We'll never go to another shop again. read more

I have been taking my 1968 230 straight 6 partially preserved Camaro to Joe and Rob for about 6 months now. They have repaired the oil pan replaced gaskets, and even taught me some things about my car as I am doing some of the aesthetic work myself. These guys are honest, hard working, experienced mechanics who will always do the job right the first time and if something happens and the repair doesn't take they'll make sure it does. I highly recommend this shop to everyone in Orange County and especially the Newport and Costa Mesa area which is their neighborhood. read more

Once again Bay Auto exceed my expectations. Joe continued to tweak the repairs on my vehicle until everything was operating well. If you are looking for honest repairs at fair and reasonable prices look no further , this is the best shop in town ! I will recommend Bay auto to friends and family without reservation. read more

Again Amber and her crew proved why I should keep coming back to this location. Alway's kind and courteous. If you need your oil changed, I highly recommend this location in Costa Mesa! read more

Bay Auto Service - Auto Repair Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

The grand total of everything I know about cars is that they need gas to move. I'm uninterested and unwilling to learn anything more than that so thank goodness for Joe and Bay Auto. I've been taking my car here for about 4 years now and I've always been completely impressed by their speed, honesty, and prices. With some rare exceptions, I've been able to drop my car off in the morning and pick it up that same day. I always get a call to talk about my upkeep and repair options and Joe is always honest about what needs to be done and what is working just fine. If he can't fix it there, he knows a guy who can take care of it somewhere close by for a decent enough price. He never sells me things I don't need and he's always honest and accurate about what I'll end up getting charged when I come in to pick my car up. For someone who puts herself at the mercy of mechanics, Joe and Bay Auto are as good as it gets. read more

I spent 15 years in the auto business. I know how rare a good mechanic is these days. A craftsman like Joe is even harder to find. There are no "part changers" at this shop; only skilled, "old school", talented, honest professionals that clearly love what they're doing. They charge a fair price, diagnose and repair the problems quickly, and treat everybody, especially women, with respect. (No mansplaining here!) These are the guys you've been looking for to trust your car repair, your kids car repair and your folks car repair. read more

Joe has taken care of my cars for over 20 years. He's the best out there, workmanship, pricing and fairness all the way. He kept my Toyota Tercel with 100,000 miles on it when I got it, running for 14 more years until I got my first new car. He takes care of my 2009 Mini Clubman now. You won't find better. read more

These guys are awesome. Came in with leaking oil from another shop's screw up and they got me fixed up immediately with a nominal charge and good advice. Straight-shooters all the way. read more

holy cow! i just called to get a price quote and the gentleman straight up told me "you honestly don't even need that service but if you're concerned, come on by and i'll take a look. it won't cost you anything." that's insane! i'm blown away cause i have never heard those type of honest words from a car mechanic. read more

Great, honest mechanic. It's not easy to find a shop that can work on classic cars but Bay Auto can, and does a great job.

I love Bay Auto and Joe! He tells me exactly what's wrong and shows it to me as he's explaining the problem. He's fast, does the repairs in a timely manner and is honest. As a female who knows little about cars, I appreciate that kind of service - it's hard to find these days! I've been to several other mechanics in the area but Joe is the best. No matter how far you have to drive, for the best service in OC, take your car to Joe at Bay Auto! read more

If I had to sum up my experience with the MECHANICS over at Bay Auto in just a few words: AMAZING, HONEST, CARING PEOPLE... Did I say AMAZING?!! Joe and Rob are THE BEST!... A little about me: I am a law student, gravely in debt, who recently purchased a'67 Mustang after my Lexus IS250 was smashed into the median and claimed as a total loss by insurance. Although I was not claimed at fault, the settlement check was barely enough (with some saving) to purchase the car I wanted since I was 16 - my now '67 Mustang. Of course, everything seemed perfect when the purchase was made - naturally - however, small, but significant problems began to arise and I [ALMOST] regretted my purchase. That is UNTIL I was introduced to Joe and Rob over at Bay Auto. (**I was not paid to write this, feel free to message me or look at all the other comments if you are having trouble believing**) I am more than pleased to tell you that my dream car REALLY is now my dream car thanks to these two AMAZING people, who also just happen to be REAL & HONEST MECHANICS!!! Without a glimpse of doubt, I can confidently and with conviction tell you, THERE IS NO ONE BETTER THAN JOE AND ROB OVER AT BAY AUTO. Until I was introduced to this awesome and amazing team, the words 'honest' and 'mechanic' never were paired in a sentence. Let alone together! Before dropping off my new baby, the experience I had with this amazing team was just a myth. Indeed, I am proud and honored to say - at long last- I HAVE FOUND A TEAM OF HONEST AN AMAZING MECHANICS WHO ARE AWESOME AND WILL MAKE YOU FEEL LIKE FAMILY. No more haggling, no more worrying, NO MORE STRESS!!!! :D From day one, like myself, I am 100% sure you will not be able to stop bragging to everyone about how KNOWLEDGABLE, EFFICIENT AND (REFRESHINGLY) ASSURING THE QUALITY WORK COMPLETED AT BAY AUTO IS. All-in-all, I will never take my car anywhere else and neither should you! Whatever problem you may have with your car, however small or large, your answer is Joe and Rob at Bay Auto. So, what are you waiting for?!?! STOP WORRYING and allow yourself to EMBRACE THE WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE YOU WILL HAVE AT BAY AUTO. read more

I need to add that I recently took my RV to Bay Auto after hearing odd pops and clunks while driving across the Mojave. Joe quickly diagnosed the problem and Rob performed a full tune up on my beast in quick order and at a reasonable cost. I made the return trip to Arizona without a single pop or clunk.Good Job and Kudo's to Joe and Rob! You guys are THE BEST! read more

Brought my van conversion RV (1984 Transtar) to have a possible exhaust leak checked out. I called ahead and the owner told me to bring it by and he would have a look right away. He did and did not find anything major- told me to have the dog ear resealed - was siting on carpet (something I could do myself). I appreciated the time they took to check my safety issue right away and pointing me in the right most cost effective direction. I will be back read more

Joe and Rob are extremely honest and are the hardest working mechanics west of the Mississippi. They're terrific at communication and do fantastic work at a great price. Especially good if you have an older / classic vehicle. These guys will do work other shops won't. read more

Bay Auto Service has skilled mechanics, who are honest and have fair pricing. They also do oil changes and repairs on hybrid cars. My family and friends have been taking our vehicles to them for years. I highly recommend you use them! read more

I've been using Bay Auto for both my cars for several years now - thanks to a referral from someone who has known Joe and has used Bay Auto for many years himself. I know at Bay I will get honest work and honest prices - I won't get strung along. If they are too busy to take my car, they will be upfront and say so - and not leave me unnecessarily without the car for long. There have been at least a couple instances where the solution to my car;'s problem was quick and easy - not for me, but for Joe. He could have charged me full price and inflated the bill, but I believe Joe is honest - a man of integrity (Imagine that in this business!) - and at times I have been very impressed with how low the final charge has been. Whoever stumbles upon this review and begins to use Bay Auto is fortunate - money saved is like money earned, and honesty and integrity with respect to the service of your most prized possessions is wonderful and unique. read more

Joe makes dealing with a nonworking vehicle less dreadful. He is knowledgeable and fair. Def recommended.

I've taken my older vehicles to Joe's Bay Auto for 10 years and do not need to replace them. Since the repairs are completed right the first time, I do not need to keep taking them back for rework which seems to be the norm at other places. Fair prices and the most honest mechanic I know of. I know because I am pretty good at cars myself, just don't have the time to fix them.He has a new guy there now and I think his name is Ron who also seems to compliment an already exceptional auto repair shop. read more

Brought my 77" dodge in her for a "once over" it had only been driven a few times in the last few years. It was having a few problems with brakes and other things that come along with an old car. I got it back 1 day later and it runs smooth as butter! The old brakes were horrible and now it stops on a dime. Price was fair and the owner knew everything about the van before I could even say anything. Amazing. Glad my friend Stacy turned me on to him. I never got the feeling of being cheated or scammed. 2 thumbs up! read more

This place deserves a 10 star. Words can not begin to describe how wonderful this place is! The guy is the most HONEST mechanic ever! He's even given me a few quick fix solutions to do on my own rather than take advantage of a situation like most other mechanics would of. They are amazing at this place and very reasonable priced as well as time they take to fix your car. I would recommend this place to everyone! read more

How is it I have lived in Newport / Costa Mesa my whole life and never used this amazing place for my cars?! Today I needed a brake light fixed. I ran in, they stopped what they were doing, fixed it, didn't want to charge me. I insisted they check and fill my coolant so they would take my $$ and they still refused. Asked me to please come back for oil changes and anything else. Of course I will! They were so great and fast and I loved them. read more