Both my brake lights were out and I had the car seen at two other shops. The other shops will remain unnamed because this post is not about bashing. The first shop did a diagnostic on the electrical system and recommended a brake switch. That did not fix the problem, so I fired him before he had the chance to do guess mechanic work, which would have cost me more in the long run. The second place could not pinpoint the problem but he suggested several remedies and seemed to be in a rush to get me out of the shop after a two week wait for an appointment. I left that shop disappointed and confused as to why are these establishments are getting such high ratings. I called Mike at Capitol Mechanics an he told me to come by in the morning but could not promise quick service which was understandable. When I arrived at first I was skeptical if they could fix my issue because of the way the shop looked. NEVER JUDGE A BOOK BY ITS COVER!!!! Mike greeted me and was extremely pleasant and knowledgeable. He told his tech what the issue was and the technician started right away and within 10 min found the problem! He explained what he did and told me it was an unplugged trunk sensor. He plugged the sensor back in and presto, the brake LED was on! I do apologize for not remembering the technicians name. Most of the praise gets thrown on the managers of the shop. I tries to leave a tip for the technician and mike told me it was not necessary! He explained why he follows this policy and only accepted my payment. Mike's wife was very pleasant as well. The only thing I see that needs attention is the lack of staff. I only saw the one tech. I should have asked if he was the only tech there. A wonderful experience is what you get from a mom and pop establishment like Capitol Mechanics. read more

I wish Capitol Mechanics was our local mechanic! The inside of our car started to smell like gas fumes in the middle of a road trip. Not only were they able to detect and fix the problem without charging us a dime, they also notified me of a part that had been recalled by our auto manufacturer that could have contributed to the issue. They only dealt with the problem at hand and did not try to add on any other services. Furthermore, they made me feel completely at ease when I normally dread having to deal with auto repairs. Friendly and trustworthy professionals that would without a doubt be my local mechanics if I lived in the area. read more

Trust... the number one issue to consider when choosing a mechanic. Mike and his staff have worked my Saab(s), Volvo and Alfa through the years and haven't let me down. They take their time to check for the problem, give you a great look at the potential concerns... including a walk-thru. Once you've identified the issue you need fixed, it get's fixed. Most importantly, they will not make the fix without your understanding and approval and an accurate price point. That's where the trust comes into the process and it means so much. Thank you Tina and Michael. read more

I came to know Mike and his wife through another business deal when I found out they run this business. Mike spent most of his career as an engineer, but decided working on cars was more fun. He's a genius. I took my 2004 Cavalier to another mechanic with a cylinder 3 misfire and he couldn't fix it (didn't charge me either) but didn't know what to tell me. Mike figured it out in very little time and now I'm back on the road. Prices are average but he's honest and won't try to tack on unnecessary stuff. Definitely try this place out. read more

My 71 MGB had all of the timing components and carbs replaced. They did a wonderful job and at a wonderful price. Thank you Capital Mechanics for helping to keep my British beauty going strong for another 49 years! If your not having your classic car serviced by them, you don't know what your missing. Mike and his team are knowledgeable, professional, and totally understand the love classic car owners have for their cars. My car will never go anywhere else. Give them a call today! read more

These guys are great! I pulled in to their shop just prior to a Friday closing, and they saved my bacon - fixed my burned out brake well past closing time. And I am from out of town!! Phil and Mike could not have been nicer, explaining what had happened and what I should do to prevent future brake failure. Businesses like this should be rewarded with patronage from the locals...I wish I had such professionals near me. read more

Hats off to Mike Levin and his expert team at Capitol Mechanics for doing an excellent job evaluating a possible leak and providing first rate advice. Easy to schedule and work with Mike and his staff. Thanks also to T.A.C.S. Auto-body in Glenmont for their assistance in this matter. read more

Capitol Mechanics run by Mike and his wife operate a very efficient business. I was very impressed with their honesty and fair price in the work done on my Saturn Ion. Highly recommend them! read more