I called this shop after waiting on struts never-to-arrive at my usual shop, thanks to Yelps integrated "get a quote" system. Tony was FAST to give his quote (and no other shops even actually called me, just some canned text message from Yelp itself) and me being on fixed income? THE MAN GAVE ME OPTIONS BEFORE I even mentioned my income is fixed; no shop I know has done that before and before I dabbled at i.e. changing my starter/etc I specifically ONLY chose 5 star shops because of the horror stories... Anyway, I told him I'd to go option "loaded" for the struts, and unlike the mechanic I had planned to take it to who had also already numerous-times test driven and otherwise inspected my fairly-new-to-me Pilot, there was no "Hey maybe you need new sway bar links" or anything like that. I mention this because per the last call to the other place where struts had been part of my original maintenance pretty early on, I thought it was crappy of the guy to suggest "all the sudden" I may need more add ons for a vehicle he'd looked at many times not to mention had his supplier lose the struts, so that plus the usual shop talk to a lady? I was fully expecting to have to let Tony know that if he hasn't yet even seen the Pilot, no need to try and upsell me. I LOVE when mechanics shatter my expectations so THANKS TONY! Back to the job, I schrduled with Tony for early the following week as we spoke on a late Thursday. I had an issue where I needed to delay a day the scheduled morning, and then got further delayed so dropped my car off pretty late (of course NOT expecting the shop to start working on my Pilot at 4-something PM that day), and was told I would be up and running come Friday. 3 days later I got my vehicle back and as Tony ran it across to Firestone to get realignment after the struts at his shop rate, both the bouncing and noise as well as overall driveability was smoothest I'd felt since buying my truck a few months back, and WOW, what a difference!! Not to mention, yes its no longer a secret surprise but still a pleasant thing to find; the rumors are true - this shop did clean up my car both inside and out. (Man are those tires SHIIIIINY!) Having a busted spine and a pack of dogs who regularly bring nature into the car post-adventures, this service alone was MOST appreciated. Both Tony's work and the realignment he had done are guaranteed for a year or 12k miles, and Tony gave me the paperwork for Firestone as well as his shop's job. I wish there would have been one of those "X point visual inspection" papers included so I can rework any needed maintenance compared to the shop which lost my struts and wanted sway bar links at the last minute, but perhaps that only comes when oil changed? (Yes folks, ALSO beating the competition, this shop apparently does it all but tires, whereas my last place claimed full service yet didn't do oil changes??) My only "complaint" if there is one? When I originally called to say I was running a bit behind schedule I wish the (not Tony) man woulda mentioned how fast they were filling up already, so I would have sent a friend to drop off and not had to leave it 3 days beyond expectation, even though I myself was a bit incapacitated that morning. Also, the 3.5% credit card vs cash fee wasn't discussed up front when quotes were given, and for someone on fixed income that could have gotten it together in cash had she known prior to payment day as it did stay 3 days, I would obviously have loved to save some more cash as, for me, every penny helps right now. But!! Still giving five stars as the absentmindeness of telling me that up front is likely not on Tony alone - I did have many questions and maybe better than most I understand that sometimes people forget; I did notice upon pickup that had I walked into the shop to make the appointment in person, they DO have a very big sign to help let customers know so, just a tip. I figure what they saved me in realignment fee, it all comes in the wash so this is more a tip to customers incase Tony is again busy and forgets to mention, moreso than "a complaint". In closing, I can see why, whenever you do make it thru the doors, you see the BBB's A+ ratings for years on end practically wall papering their door, and I will surely both be back for service again, as well as recommend this shop to anyone I know, especially women with mechanic fatigue. As a lady who used to exclusively seek out highly rated shops in the area due to being totally uneducated about car ownership I can confidently say: BURT Gene Transmission (don't go to "just Gene" - they're different ownership) blows at least two of the other 5 star shops out of the water on both price and service. GO HERE!! read more

Shift your shifty paradigm about crook mechanics and con-filled shop owners when you take your vehicle to this place because the experience is the exact opposite. Not only did Steve have the utmost patience with my father and I as we conjured the funds to get the job done, but he even went the extra mile as to stand in our shoes and see our point of view to better asses concerns from our perspective which is something both customers and shop owners/mechanics/business-professionals don't even think of considering these days since so many bad experiences on both ends of the spectrum have lead to a chronic disbelief and sort of cynical behavior exhibited in this industry as well as many other industries. After the transmission had been rebuilt on my 05' Range Rover, Steve went above and beyond his duty that was agreed upon, and took care of an electrical problem which was the actual cause of the transmissions downfall. He did this not because he wanted to pile on extra money after the initial job was done, which is what most people would think, but because he felt like he "owed" it to us, but he knows he didn't owe us a damn thing; he did it for free because that is the type of person he is. Now don't go around thinking you're gonna get some free work done haha, in my niche situation that's just how it all panned out. I'm only here to do the least i can do to show my appreciation for a job exceptionally done; if you are reading this looking for a place to get work done, stop your extensive and time consuming search, this is your place. -AJ read more

I recently went to Bert's Gene Brown Transmission to get a wellness check on my aging car. If you're like me and don't know much about cars, the first thing you're looking for in a mechanic is honesty and genuineness. I spoke with the owner, Mr. Bert Ayala. Right away, I could tell that he was a stand up guy. He carefully listened to all my concerns and assured me that he would personally take a test drive to access the state of my car. Boy am I glad I went to this place! He gave me a list of things that were of both immediate attention to my 14 year old Mazda as well as a list of things that would need to be fixed in the near future. I think the thing I'm most appreciative of is that he was very honest with me about the things he thought were necessary for my own safety in my vehicle while also letting me know what I can expect down the road. He could've easily told me to fix a million things but he was very direct on prioritizing all the issues. He gave me an estimated life span of my car before I would have to put more money in it than it was worth. As someone with a strict budget, I was super appreciative of his transparency. I walked out of there with my car in much better shape and without spending and arm and a leg. I don't normally write reviews but I wanted to be sure to let all my San Antonio people know that if you want a great mechanic that isn't going to take advantage of you, you MUST give these guys a shot. If you have the same experience, please write a review and let your friends know. These guys deserve it! read more

My 2008 Ford Edge's transmission was in need of repair. Bert's Gene Brown Transmission Shop repaired this vehicle on two previous occasions with excellent results so there were no doubts where I would take it for repair. The transmission clunked when shifted to Reverse and was hesitant to shift gears when during acceleration. Tony Palacios advised me that it would be a while before he could get to my vehicle due to Covid-related mechanics shortage. Time was not of the essence so I dropped the vehicle off. Mr. Palacios provided updates, options and status frequently to keep me apprised of what steps were being taken. The transmission needed to be rebuilt or replaced. Mr. Palacios worked with me to keep the cost as low as possible. Purchasing and installing a re-manufactured transmission cost less than rebuilding it so I went with that option. Mr. Palacios located a source and provided me the information so I could purchase the unit. The re-manufactured transmission unit was shipped to the shop within a week and a few days later Mr. Palacios informed me the job was done. Mr. Palacios' recommendation to buy the re-manufactured transmission, applying a military discount, and taking $50 off for paying with cash cut the costs significantly. They cleaned my vehicle inside and out so my Ford Edge not only shifts smoother, it's clean as a whistle! I'm very satisfied with my experience and will continue to bring my vehicle to Bert's Gene Brown Transmission. I recommend this shop. read more

I took my 2006 Ford Explorer in because it was driving really rough and other shops said I needed to replace the transmission. I looked for a true transmission shop as I felt uncomfortable with a general mechanic working on the transmission. Found Bert's Gene Brown after a search on the internet. Felt pretty good reading all the positive reviews. Steve checked it out and said the transmission was fine, the problem was a misfire. Basically, it needed a tune up, which they did. Since the Explorer had 150,000 miles, I asked for a transmission fluid and filter change even though they did not try to sell me one. I just wanted to be safe. Steve said the pan and fluid were fine, which was reassuring given the high mileage. Long story made short. I went in expecting a high dollar transmission rebuild because of other auto shop recommendations. Turns out it was typical maintenance issue. Believe all the reviews you read here, everything that is said is true. By the way I waited a few days so I could truly test the car before I wrote this review. Our truck runs great. Go here first before you take your car anywhere else, you will not be disappointed. Steve will take care of all my cars from here on. Gus Diaz read more

1st I'd like to thank Steve & his staff for the exceptional service I received. I brought in my car late in the day for an air conditioning/overheating issue. Steve called me early the next day w/ the diagnostics, cost for the parts & labor, & that he could have it ready by the end of the day. The cost of parts are what they are, but I thought the labor was extremely reasonable. When I found out they had to take off part of the front to access the fans, I asked if he could replace the yellowing headlight cover on the one side. He got a price, called me back right away, & told me he wouldn't charge me any labor. If I had taken my car to the dealer, I would have been gouged. I went to pick up my car, & found it cleaner than when I dropped it off, they even ran it thru the car wash. Now that's old fashioned service to me. I hope I won't have to see Steve or his staff anytime soon, but whenever I need my car repaired again, I won't have to worry about where to take it. I recommend this shop to everyone, & don't let the "transmission" name fool you, they do all kinds of auto repair. Thanks again guys. read more

On June 19, 2019, my niece came to visit. Prior to leaving, her engine light came on and when we checked under the hood we found oil all over the place. She recently had some work done in the Dallas area and clearly they didn't fix the issue. My wife immediately contact Bert's Gene Brown Transmission. We have used them several times in the past and they are our "go-to place". From the top to the bottom everyone there is amazing. They have the best customer service and are great mechanics. I recommend this shop to all of my family and friends. I will never go anywhere else. Customer service is a dying art but it is alive and well at this shop. Bert and Steve are just great people that truly care about their customers. Next time you need repairs do yourself a favor and go to Bert's Gene Brown Transmission. It's a terrible feeling having to depend on others for honesty and dependability. That is the reason I only use Bert's. No one is more honest and fair than this crew. Thank you everyone for your amazing work and for caring. read more

Our 2004 Toyota Sienna would not go in to gear and was acting as if it was in neutral even when it was put into "Park." What a problem! Even after searching Google and YouTube, I couldn't come up with a solution. A good friend of ours, and a fine "mobile mechanic," Robert Ramirez, suggested we call Bert's. Robert told me that he sends transmission-related problems to Bert's and NO ONE ELSE in all of San Antonio...that was all I needed to hear. I called up, spoke with STEVE, arranged to have the van towed to their shop, and in short, I could not be more pleased with the results! Their care, consideration, efficiency, and price is commendable. I have just one "complaint" or criticism: Steve offered to come get our van, but oh, no; I just HAD to use our insurance company towing service. Big mistake: the tow service never came that same day, and I had to postpone getting it to them until the next day. How cool is it that Bert's can even come for your vehicle, if needed?! A very satisfied Kent McElroy, for the McFamily read more

Took me a little while to write this but better late that never. I had researched and read reviews before choosing a place to take my Honda Pilot. The reviews for Bert's Gene Brown were mostly good with a few bad eggs mixed in the bunch. Some saying that they wrote their own reviews. I'm here to dispel that rumor. These guys are the BEST!! Steve got my car in right away and they were able to find the problem. He explained it to me and even explained what would be the best course of action. Calling every step of the way. I took my car in right before Christmas. I had family coming in soon but with all the work they had Steve thought it wouldn't be until the Monday of the 21st before they had it finished. My family came in on the 19th and the morning of the 19th Steve called and said my car was ready. What a lifesaver. They had my car finished early and did a great job on it. The quality of service of repair and customer service is one of the best I've found. You can trust these guys to do their best. read more

I had brought my Ford Fusion in when the transmission was acting up. Steve worked extremely hard to make sure that I was satisfied with the end product. The job ended up being way more complicated than anyone could have predicted, but Steve and the owner went way over and beyond what I would normally have expected from a repair shop. I've had other shops that have not even come close to the service that I received from Bert's Gene Brown Transmission. I would recommend anyone to come here, you will not be disappointed. You will be treated with kindness and respect, and there is no way that they will ever take advantage of any situation, unlike other places. He made sure that I understood what was going on as they were working on my car, and always encouraged me to call and check up on the progress. He was always available to take my call, or call me back in a timely manner to answer any and all questions that I may have had. Steve and the shop have earned my business for as long as I live in this area!! read more

I was referred to to Bert's Gene Brown Transmission from another shop, based on them not doing any transmission work. I am very glad for the referral, as you know that some shops out there can be a bit deceiving. The job turned out to be more than was imaginable, but I can honestly say that I would not go anywhere else. The staff is fantastic!! Steve was honest and upfront with the process the entire time. He took time to have me come out and look at the damage, explain what happened and what needed to be done to repair it. I felt very comfortable from my initial conversation over the phone and all the phone conversations after. If you are looking for a transmission shop and are looking for the best reviews, I can without a doubt say, stop looking any further. This is the place to take your car or truck. You and your vehicle will not be treated any better. THANK YOU ALLl at Bert's Gene Brown Transmission. You have my highest recommendations and you have EARNED my respect!! read more

If you need your transmission replaced, this is the shop to have it replaced at. My daughter has a 2013 Nissian, that was having problems. We took it to the dealer an they told us the transmission had to be replaced. I asked how much it would cost and was quoted about $7,000. dollars with a one year warrantee. I advised them I would have to think about it. My daughter said to me their is a transmission shop near her home. We went to the shop which is Bert's Gene Brown Transmission. I spoke with Tony who asked to leave the car and they will check it out. Car was left and the next day Tony called me and said the transmission needed to be replaced. Asked about how much it would cost and was quoted $4000 plus or minus $100. depending if any other parts are needed. Tony was advised to fix the car. Long story cut short car was repaired runs great daughter said car looks like it was detailed (very clean inside and out) final cost $3900. We saved a lot of money. Anthony K read more

Ive been here a few times now. Once for my Hyundai and the other for my Toyota Corolla. These guys really know about true customer service and kept me informed every step of the way. Tony the manager communicated with me on everything that needed to be done and made sure to tell pricing and every part that would he needed ahead of time. I had bought a used Hyundai from a lot on wetmore and it had a few problems I wasn't intially aware of. I needed to get the transmission sensor replaced because I noticed the vehicle pulling when shifting gears. Tony made sure to quote me the accurate pricing for parts and services and it was very reasonable. Tony made sure every step of the way that I knew what was to be done on the car and how much time it was going to take. Needless to say this guys are trustworthy and I have given them my business multiple times and will confide in them everytime I need repairs or maintenance. Thank you for being top notch guys. read more

I just moved to San Antonio from New Jersey and when I got here and tried to pass inspection I ]found out my emergency brake was not working. A friend of mine took me to Bert's Gene Brown because she said they were the best. Well I took my car there and they told me the repair would cost about $800. Well I couldn't afford that with all the expense tied up in the move and the job search only just begun. I called and told them the circumstances and that I just can't afford the repair at this time. I I was put on hold for about a minute when I was told my situation was explained to Bert and that they didn't want me to get off on the wrong foot here in Texas and cut the bill in half to $400. That was a true godsend and They did the repair and showed me how rusted and worn the emergency brake cables were that they replaced. I don't know any business that would do anything like that. Good honest place to bring your car with good honest people. read more

This is the second time that I feel compelled to review the work done on my car, at Bert Ayala's Gene Brown Transmission. Bert's garage is about a 40 minute drive from my house so, against my better judgment, I decided to get an estimate from one of his well known competitors. The analysis at my local garage was that I needed a new alternator and battery. I thanked them for their analysis and then I called Bert with the symptoms of my car. He listened carefully then said, "I don't think it's the alternator. If it was, you wouldn't be able to drive the car to my shop." Long story short, Burt replaced my battery at a reasonable cost and sent me on my merry way. There are not enough adjectives in the English language to sing Bert's praises. I recommend this honest man and his crew without any hesitation or reservation. Next time I won't waste my time. I'll go straight to Bert Ayala's Gene Brown Transmission with my car problems. read more

We were on a trip just traveling through San Antonio when we decided we should get the shaking in our car checked out. The first place quoted us at over $1000 to fix the front axles and they couldn't get it done until a few days later. When we called around and figured out that the mark-up on parts was crazy we purchased them ourselves and then found Bert's and Gene Brown through our family's mechanic's recommendation. They were the best! They were patient with us as we got the car and the parts in just before they closed on Friday and then they were up bright and early on a Saturday to get the axles switched out and fixed for us before noon. It was an amazing experience and we ended up paying less than half of what we were originally quoted. The sad thing is that the transmission in the car ended up dying in Death Valley just about two weeks later so it ended up being $500 down the drain. But that was not their fault. read more

After being screwed by BMW of San Antonio, I decided to look for a transmission repair shop on line in San Antonio. I found Gene Brown and decided to take my BMW 750LI in so I can get an esitmate on getting the transmission fixed. I met with Steve Howell and explained the problems I was having. He seemed to know exactly what I was talking about. After the vechicle was diagnosed, he gave me the price which was WAAAYYYYYY below what BMW was trying to charge me. He informed me there was no rush to get the vehicle fixed and it could stay there. He just asked that I inform him when I wanted it fixed so he can beging working on it. Once my vehicle was fixed, he assured me that the problem would never return, and if it did to bring it in. He even had my vehicle washed before I picked it up. I couldn't ask for a more professional person or place to fix my vehicles. A+ service!!! Thanks!!!! read more

Hey everyone! These guys are great! Hands down! Even my wife was very impress with them. They kept us in the loop the whole time. We and an issue with our Acura MDX transmission. I called explain to them what was going on. They told me to bring it in, they can check it for free on their machine. Took it in, told me what was wrong, my options, from inexpensive to costly. Over all guys, you know when it comes to transmission work, it's going to cost! Steve and the rest of the crew are great!! Kind, friendly, and not pushy. Also had some issues where my motor was leaking oil, they took care of that too. They also took care of a motor mount, and a seal between the motor and tranni as well. These guys did a great job! If your having problems with your car, go there and ask for Steve, or David, or any one from their crew for help. They will take care of you!!! Thanks again guys!!!!! read more

I have been coming to Bert's Gene Brown Transmission for about two years now for service on my car. I broke the transmission in my car and was really looking for a good shop that I could rely on to get the job done. My friend told me about them so I decided to look then up on yelp. Their reviews were already amazing so I thought I'd give them a shot. I will never regret my decision. Not only did they replace my trans but over the past few years they have fixed my front suspension, replaced my whole AC system and installed a diff and both rear axles on my car. When I go I always work with Steve. He is super personable and always calls me to give me updates and never replaces/fixes anything he finds that wasn't discussed without my approval first. I will always recommend this shop and their techs to anyone I come across who needs work done to their car. read more