We got in an unfortunate fender bender from LA down to San Diego - but luckily, Carlos Auto Repair was at the very next exit. Our back bumper was smashed into the left rear tire. Needed to free up the tire and make sure bumper would be secure for the drive ahead. Mechanic / New-owner Ernesto was quick & thorough, and Rebecca (who I assume is the store manager?) was friendly, fair & very helpful. They had us back on the road, with total peace of mind, within 20 minutes. Thanks, Ernesto & Rebecca! read more

Best Mechanics in town. Honest and very informative. All my family members bring their cars here for repair 100% satisfied with all our repairs. read more

Carlos Auto Repair - Auto Repair Near Me - San Clemente, California

An HONEST auto mechanic!! Carlos saw my wallet on the ground on the Ave Pico on-ramp. He actually pulled over and got it! It had $600.00 cash and all my credit cards in it. He called the numbers on some business cards until he found someone who knew my number. I went to his shop (next to Stanley's) and he handed me my wallet with everything in it. He never asked for a 'reward'. I really don't know how good of a mechanic he is but I'm planning on taking my truck there for everything, even oil changes. If Carlos has the integrity to do what he did for me, instead of pocketing an easy 600 dollars, then I trust him to not chip me up on auto repairs. BTW, I gave him a hundred bucks. read more

I could not be more delighted at the quality of service and repairs that Carlos Auto just performed on my 2005 Chevy Equinox!! After my car broke down unexpectedly on Christmas Day, I found Carlos's (on Yelp, of course) and discovered that they were open on the 26th! Had my car towed there, and discovered warped head, ruined head gasket, and engine that needed to be machined out for a valve job. The price I paid was much less that I would have expected, and the car now runs perfectly. Great experience - I'll definitely return. read more

In addition to his auto repair expertise, Carlos is also an honest man.You can absolutely trust Carlos to NOT rip you off. I wrote this in a previous review that was rejected for some reason; I'm trying again. Carlos found my day-planner on the top of the Ave Pico on-ramp to the 5 fwy. He stopped to pick it up. In it was my wallet with $1,000.00 cash, all my credit cards, and all my business contacts. Carlos spent the afternoon contacting my business contacts to see if anyone had my phone number. He reached the manager of Guitar Center who called me and told me Carlos had my wallet. I went to his shop, and he handed me the day planner. I reached in, without looking at or counting the money, and gave him a $100.00 bill and my sincerest Thanks. And the Thanks of my crew, who got paid. Carlos has since worked on my 2004 Chevy Silverado 2500HD and kept it in tip-top shape, now with 180,000 miles on it. Please don't delete this! Honest car mechanics are very hard to find, and Carlos is awesome. read more

Carlos was very helpful and as well with his dad great price as well very kind and helpful my truck broke down on the freeway breaks were bad ended at Denny's he drove to his place and within a hr it was all done and good to hit the road again and meanwhile waiting for my vehicle he didn't mind me smoking weed at the place so I recommend this place to anyone great people !! read more

Ernesto has alwayshelped me with my cars. Always willing to work with my budget and what needs to be done first on my car repairs read more

Carlos Auto Repair - #CarlosAutoRepairNEXTGENERATION #NEWOWNERSHIP - Auto Repair Near Me - San Clemente, California

I had an over heating issue with my 01' Xterra and I assumed I needed a new radiator. They opened it up and found out the fan clutch was bad. Replaced it and she runs like a champ. I have lived in San Clemente for 15 years and finally found a good and honest mechanic. Thanks Carlos family!! read more

Ernesto is Amazing!! I was at m wits end, having been up most of the night before trying to tighten an alternator & power steering belt by myself. I had very little money, not one friend I could even call to help me, not to mention I was fresh out of patience. So I jumped in my horrible sounding barely running car,Google Mapped auto repair and prayed for them to be willing to help me. I pulled into Carlos Auto, Ernesto came out took my keys & after listening to me, said to give him 15 min. In 15 min, my car ran, was quiet, and I still had $6 left over!!!!!! His concern was taking everything in m pocket leaving me with nothing!! Thank you so much Ernesto for making that day what it was. A relief!! read more

I found Carlos on Yelp (naturally) two years ago when I moved to San Clemente, and I've been meaning to review him ever since. My first experience was a simple oil change. I was new in town, I had no idea where to go, so of course I looked on Yelp. I have always loathed those chain lube n' tune stores (like Jiffy Lube, EZLube etc) whose whole purpose seems to be to sell customers on crap they don't need, and I didn't want to deal with it. Likewise, I knew I needed to know which mechanic I could trust if something broke down. I've been in the car business in the past, and I'm pretty aware of how mechanics operate. They like to: - Up-sell stuff that is only marginally necessary. - Mark up the parts they use. - Nickel-and-dime the customer with diagnosis fees and the like. Then there's the fourth approach, which works for almost any business; building a customer base slowly and steadily through reliable, honest and competent service. Carlos is definitely a fourth-approach type of guy. My oil change was great; it was my first time there I was particularly delighted to find that Carlos's shop is located right behind a big, fancy EZLube place; I got to drive right past it and see all the poor, coupon-clutching saps who had their cars up on the EZLube racks, waiting for the song and dance about how their new air filter was dirty or how they needed the special synthetic oil from Bavaria. A few months later, my daughter had something wrong with her car; some bushings had worn out. He diagnosed it for free and fixed it, very quickly, for a surprisingly reasonable price. Over the next year or so, there were a few more oil changes. I also referred a friend there, who had a great experience. Every time, things were done quickly, cheaply and with no attempt whatsoever to sell me something I didn't need. Then, recently, my car started making an alarming sputtering noise just as I was about to go on a road trip. I thought my exhaust manifold might be cracked; I took it to Carlos, who got under the hood (free of charge) and told me it was just a gasket. He gave me an approximate estimate for the repair. Approximate estimates can be scary things, right? Not in this case. Ultimately, Carlos charged me HALF of what he originally thought might be necessary. Even a jaded former car guy like me would have paid the original estimate if that's what he'd come back with. In short, the story another reviewer told about losing a wallet and Carlos returning it to him with the cash intact does not surprise me a bit. He just doesn't seem interested in being duplicitous in any way. Now, a word about the employees. He has a few, but most of the people who work there seem to be family. His son is a mechanic there, and his daughter helps out in the office. I don't know his son, but I've spoken to his daughter a number of times and she's very sweet and very helpful. The last time I had repair done there, they actually dropped me off at home while the repair was being done and picked me up afterward. It's a small, local, family business that has been in San Clemente for years and obviously plans on being around for the long haul. I strongly suggest you take your car to Carlos and his family and make them your first stop when you need auto maintenance or repair. Expect zero frills and honest, affordable and competent service. Every time I leave Carlos Auto Repair, I think to myself "I've gotta remember to Yelp this guy!". Well, I finally have... and it's been a long time coming. read more

So.. Disregard these other reviews. Carlos is an extremely nice man, but I paid him 100 dollars for an oil change just to find out he took it next door. RIP OFF. My husband and I are pissed. I would have much rather taken my car to Valvoline my self. Probably would have been cheaper. read more

Thankfully, I finally dumped what had been a great Camry (before going here). If I said it all, you won't believe me, and it is unbelievable (there should be "sub" star rating). Too briefly, I'll simply say they're comically bad and that is funny if it isn't your car. Needless to say, we lost a lot of money... Thanks Carlos! You will go back and be disappointed... Going to and from work, smoke was billowing out of and into the car. It was amazing!!! Concerned about their heath, I could not put my family in this formally good car. Going back repeatedly and waiting.... They never fixed it and thought their incompetence was funny! I am not making this up. I don't like writing negative reviews and have moved on, but I'd like to help other folks/potential victims. Making a big list of what these guy's Fu@#ed Up is huge and pointless. I am not kidding here!!! When picking up the car that they didn't repair I noticed a large increase in mileage. I am not kidding here!!! The trunk was full off bags of trash!!! Evidently, our car was not worthy of their time, but good for hauling garbage. I took the rotting stuff and "off brand" fruit loops from the trunk and found a good alternative. I hate to leave with a negative.... If you see a future as gang member, or would like you're car "repaired" in Tijuana (save time) this is the place for you. WOW!!! read more

I had just moved to San Clemente and needed a reliable mechanic, so I found this place by looking on Yelp. I have been going to them for a year and a half now and they keep my 1998 Isuzu Rodeo running great, especially considering all the mileage I've put on this car. Their prices are very reasonable and the owner is very attentive. He makes sure I have a ride home if I need to drop my car off. Not too long ago I took my car in because my check engine light came on. I tried the old screw the gas cap tighter trick and checked all my fluid levels. The only thing I could find was my reserve for my antifreeze was empty. I filled it up, but the check engine light stayed on. Thinking there might be a leak, I brought it in. They searched every where for possible leaks, as well as looking at other potential problems and were not able to find anything wrong. This is where I've had other mechanics take advantage of me in the past by making up a problem and charging $$$, only to have my car break down on the side of the road shortly after. But Carlos only charged me for the trouble shooting and re-set the check engine light, letting me know that if the light comes back on or problems persists they will fix it for free (the labor, not parts). OK, I had posted this on Yelp and literally the next day my car is leaking...turns out the water pump had a leak. This is almost 2 months after I first brought it in due to the check engine light coming on. I brought it back in, but couldn't find my receipt anywhere. Carlos honored his word and took what I had paid on my last visit off of the total price! So far everything is great! This business is run by Carlos and his family, who are all very courteous and personable. I consider my experiences with them so far to be very trust worthy ones. I highly recommend them! read more

I can't say enough wonderful things about these mechanics. They fixed my battery in the pouring rain with no appointment. I was basically stranded and they were all very friendly and professional. I came back to have them to change my brakes and install my pain in the butt turn signal lights. It was a same day job! I am so happy I found mechanics I can trust!! Thank you Ernesto!!! read more

I found myself in need of service when my car battery died at work. After looking on Yelp, it sounded like Carlos Auto Repair was the place to go. I am delighted to add to all the rave reviews - I drove up without an appointment and Carlos and his crew took care of me in 45 minutes. The neighborhood is a little sketchy looking but don't be alarmed - the guys are real gentlemen and will take great care of you. I'll be back the next time my car needs service. read more

Ernesto Carlos did a great job for us fixing our 2006 Honda Van generator and battery charging issues. Great with a great price!

This repair shop was so efficient in diagnosing my car. I have never found a mechanic that is so honest and reliable like them. .Affordable. They told me what needed to be fixed and also informed me on what they would need to work on to prevent further damage to my vehicle. I will highly recommend them to all! read more

Carlos, as the local's call him, and his two son's run and work this amazing auto repair shop. From installing plastic end caps, to full engine replacements, these guys really work hard to make you happy as a customer. I had my engine replaced. Not only did Carlos (secretly called Miguel), replace my engine, he and Ernesto beat every competitors price, provided any information I asked for, took me hands on and showed me the process, and gave me a warranty that is rarely matched by anyone. I will be taking my cars to their shop as long as they're around. Thank you Chris, Ernesto, and Miguel. And thank you Carlos! read more

Carlos is the best! He has provided great service for me and several family members. His prices are reasonable and he is honest. It is a small place, but, don't be fooled....Carlos ROCKS! read more

Carlos is an honest mechanic who will tell you like it is. He recently performed a full-service on one of my cars and I would recommend him to anyone in the area. Great job Carlos! read more

I'm in a bit of a conundrum, I messed my wrist up and I have a great deal of car repair knowledge, enough to where I know it wouldnt take 8 hours to replace the headers and the down pipe on a car. Called Carlos auto repair on 4/21 and the son answered the phone and he quoted me $295 plus a 10% cash discount, cool, reasonable, and a very modest price. Maybe all the reviews were right, eureka!! I can save my wrist and some $$$. I'll be there in 15 minutes. When I got there, the script got flipped. HARD. Old man Carlos came out with hands on hips and I knew there was a problem with the modest pricing, like from what was quoted over the phone to 8+ hours of labor for a simple bolt and un bolt and then rebolt of the exhaust system. Oh yeah. Sure, it'll take 8 hours on a lift to change the headers and the down pipe.....right. Dishonest with a capital D. Steer clear folks and thank God for Yelp to shine some light on these unscrupulous business owners!!!! 4/23/2015 UPDATE: I ended up taking the beast to UFixIt San Diego in Oceanside, I had no idea how to install longtube headers and how hard could it possibly be? Well, it wasn't because I, as a novice to LT Header installs and a bad wrist completed the job with a lift and by my lonesome in less than 6 hours. I paid $150 for the lift and tool rental. LOVE MURICA!!! DON'T LIKE IT SOMEWHERE YOU CAN ALWAYS GO SOMEWHERE BETTER AND DO IT YOURSELF AND NOT GET LIED TO!! read more

They did some horrible weld job and when my husband called them they said it's because they used the shitty welder and to bring it back and they would do it again but we had already got it done by someone else!!! They refused to refund any of the money back. Their welds failed and poured coolant into the cylinders and now we have to spend more money fixing their mistake. read more

Everyone associated with this shop is honest and hardworking. The prices are very reasonable, and the work exceeds the price you pay. Carlos and his employees treat you as a person and they want to help you. They don't just see you as a customer who they can make money off of. They actually care about you and will do everything to help you, make you happy, and do the job right. THIS IS THE BEST MECHANIC/AUTOSHOP IN SAN CLEMENTE. Go there if you have a problem, because they will fix it. They make a stressful situation into a pleasant experience. Hopefully I won't have to see him often, but if I do, I know I will be getting the best out of whoever is working on my car. Two thumbs up, 5 stars, 10/10, etc. The best. read more

A truly HONEST auto mechanic. . . Carlos found my day-planner - with my credit cards, check book, business contacts, and over $1000.00 in cash in it - on the Ave Pico onramp. He spent his entire day calling my business contacts until he found one with my home phone number. He called me and returned all of to me, never asking for a 'reward'. He fixed my steering box and water pump on my Chevy 2500HD for HALF of what Weazle-oh Chevy wanted. And, yes I gave him 100 bucks. read more

My experience at Carlos Auto Repair was an unexpected visit. I live in Menifee and work in San Clemente and my car just started leaking gas when i got to work. I was worried that i wouldn't be able to get home because I wasn't sure how bad the damage was. So I found Carlos Auto Repair on-line and Carlos was very informative and helpful. I can Tell He loves what he does and loves helping people. Customer service was 100% I would definitely recommend this shop to everyone because They get the job done fast and he is honest. I will definitely come back to service my truck. Thank you Carlos Melanie Diaz 06/01/12 read more

Thanks for taking care of my 4runner! Quick diagnosis, quick repair, friendly service! Would USA again!!

These guys did great work and at an outstanding value. Very respectful and professional. Repair was as expected with no surprises

They are extremely fairly priced and do good enough work. Way better than any other shop I have been to in San Clemente which usually charge $1,000 dollars and up read more

Had to get my catalytic converter replaced. This is a really great place to get work done. Honest, fair, reasonable, friendly, great hours, and not a long wait to get your car back. Plus, they can do work that other mechanics can't do. Excellent. Really glad to have an auto repair that's close and that is trustworthy. read more

Took my car in to get the electrical system checked, blinker and headlight fixed and oil change. Left my car there all day. Came back at 5:00 and nothing had been done except the oil change. No phone call all day saying they couldn't do it. This kid is way in over his head. read more

Unbelievably bad. Never ever use this shop. My Mitsubishi SUV was making a poping sound when turning. Carlos said no problem it was in the suspension we will have it fixed today. After me calling him back all week he tells me they replaced a bunch of parts, but it was still making the noise. He charged me $550 because he said it took his time and he had to charge me something. Carlos told me to bring it back and he would take it to a guy in Santa Ana and "make it right." Unfortunately I did. I took it back to him and suggested to look at the bearings because I read on a Mitsubishi site that it is a common problem with the vehicle. Carlos said, "No it can't be that." After two weeks and me calling everday because I now am renting a car, Carlos tells me that they took my car to the Mitsubishi dealer to diagnose the problem. Mitsubishi diagnosed the problem as a bad bearing! He told me that my car was finally back and fixed. I paid him $750 more and drive off to find the codes in the car going off telling me that the ABS was not functional. I called Carlos and he tells me to drive it around and the computer will fix it self! I find through Mitsubishi that who ever put in the bearings broke the sensors in the ABS and the parts alone will run me $600. I call Carlos and tell him I want my $ back. He says he wants to fix the vehicle for free. Really, take it back and let them break more and keep the vehicle for weeks because of their total incompetence! I told him to refund my $ or I would contest the charge. As of this review he has not paid me back and I am going through the battle of contesting the charge. My vehicle is still at the dealer being repaired. At this point I am considering a law suit. I am out of over $2000 and 4 weeks of my time to have Carlos put me in harms way to drive off with a vehicle that was dangerous to drive. read more

Very fair estimates. Straight forward. Liked him and felt comfortable there.

Carlos is the best mechanic I have ever known!!! He is honest and he cares. I have been in many crisis situations, and he always helps me out of them. I trust him to not overcharge me, and I know he will always to the best job possible. Everyone in his shop is courteous and considerate. He's just a good guy.... read more

carlos smogged my truck like he said he would. only problem was after he gave me my truck back the clutch was grinding. Its a new clutch and trans from AAMCO. He admits it was not making the noise before, but will not fix it. I would not even recommend carlos auto to the CEO of B.P. or my worst enemy. please be carefull when choosing a mechanic, i hope this helps you in the future as i was not so lucky. read more

I had my shocks on my civic hybrid done at carlos auto. They bought the wrong shocks for my car and then refused to finish the job because my car was a hybrid, I ended up putting the back shocks on myself because they were unable to do what I could do. Carlos's son and his main worker had a real bad attitude and are not real mechanics like carlos. If you must go there refuse to let these fake mechanics work on your car at all costs. The next day after fixing my car I took it into Costco to get new tires, the guy there told me a lug nut had been cross threaded and would not come off, in other words the guys at carlos did not hand tighten the nut, instead they power drilled it on wrongly. The guys at Carlos were completely unaccountable and really rude about it. I ended up paying for their mistake, any savings a got from going there was lost due to their incompetence and unaccountability. Real rooky mistake to order parts for the wrong car, work on a car a half a day before you realize its a different car and screw on a nut wrong when all they had to do is take two seconds and hand tighten it. I have had prior work done here before and was shocked by how awful my experience was. It felt like a Tijuana hold up with his smug, untrained, and incompetent son working in lieu of carlos actually doing the job. Do not use Carlos unless Carlos actually does the work. His son and friends will break more then they fix and then blame you.../. read more