I recommend Carmine's to people all the time. So many things to appreciate about them: 1. They are straight forward and honest, clear about what work is needed now and what can wait. 2. They offer big-dealer conveniences like a shuttle and loaner cars. 3. They are price-competitive with dealerships. 4. They really appreciate their customers! read more

STAY AWAY FROM THIS PLACE If I could give a negative rating, I would. Extremely disappointing and misleading experience at Carmine's Import Service. I was told by Tesla that my 2020 Tesla Model Y Performance needed a battery pack replacement. Before committing to Tesla, I called this shop and spoke with someone I believe was named Max, who assured me they could do the job and had third-party battery options that would be cheaper than Tesla. Based on that information, I paid $400 out of pocket to tow my car from Raleigh to their shop. That's where the red flags started. * It took over two days just to get a diagnosis, and I had to repeatedly call for updates. * I was charged $243.13 for the diagnostic, despite the delays and lack of communication. * My advisor, Marissa, told me she was "looking for a battery," which alone took another full day. * When I finally received an estimate, I was shocked: $28,000 total, with $23,000 claimed just for the battery. For comparison, Tesla charges around $13,000 for the same battery replacement -- and I personally found a compatible battery online for $14,500, which still makes their quoted $23,000 battery price extremely inflated. When I asked for a detailed, itemized estimate (battery source, labor hours, cost breakdown), I never received one. They could never explain where the battery was coming from, how many labor hours were involved, or why the price was so high. I asked twice to speak with a manager. Messages were taken both times. No manager ever called or texted me back. Because no repair was done, I then had to pay another $500 to tow my car back to Raleigh, wasting $900 total in towing alone, plus the $243.13 diagnostic fee -- not counting time and stress. Between the lack of transparency, the exaggerated battery cost, the inflated estimate, and zero management follow-up, this experience felt misleading and unprofessional. I wasted time, money, and trust bringing my vehicle here. I would not recommend this place to anyone. read more

Brought my Tesla in because every tesla center was completely booked for month and man was that a sign from god! Carmines team was so professional and upfront about everything! They broke down every cost and even could show where every penny was going. My Tesla was even washed before it was done and they even offered to pick up and drop off my car for FREE! read more

Brought the car in because the check engine light was on. After 2 1/2 weeks and close to $3k charged to my credit card, the check engine light was still on. Took the car to a Mercedes dealership who fixed the car in 3 days. Carmines had installed the wrong parts. Disputed the charge with my credit card company and the dispute was resolved in my favor. I feel very fortunate. Also, Mercedes charged about half the price than Carmines did for the parts needed. read more

Brought my 2012 e350 here a couple years ago for front brake pads. I worked in Kville and it was easier than taking it to my usual awesome shop in GSO. They wanted to charge me $1,800 for the work when I had it done on wife's GL350 for $650. Also, had a laundry list of other "critical" issues. Disputed the cost, they said "they paid more for parts than that " I told them not to do the work and came to get the car. Was planning to show them the receipt but no one would come out to talk with me...finally a mechanic showed up threw the keys in the counter and walked away. Only reason I'm posting now is because I have a minor fix in my 2006 911(HVAC pressure valve) and thought about calling. Thought my experience might be a outlier but theres 8 or 9 similar posts from people that have had the same experience. I've made other arrangements, LOL! read more

Carmine is highly respected locally and nationally for his expert staff and his high standards both as a businessman and a man of high morals who walks the talk of doing right by his customers and staff. I found him in 2020 when I settled in Kernersville and i would never place my driving safety (my life) into the hands of any other auto maintenance and repair staff except Carmine's. He and his staff are the Real Deal. Unlike other businesses that only teach their staff to "say" kind words, Carmine and his staff actually sincerely "act and mean" the kind words. You will know the difference when you take your car to be serviced at Carmine's. read more

Do yourself a favor and take your Tesla here! I was having suspension issues that left me on the side of the interstate. I didn't want to tow it to the Tesla service center 95 miles away, so I stumbled upon Carmine's and I'm so glad I did! From the start, Stuart took me through the process, provided me with a detailed diagnostic review of all issues found, and a plan to repair. I read reviews where people complained about the diagnostic cost, but you're paying for their skills and experience - it's absolutely worth it! The crew quickly repaired my car and kept me updated along the way. It drives like it's brand new again, so needless to say they've earned a lifetime customer! read more

Beware of this place and proceed with great caution if you feel you must work with them. My son brought a $4000 dollar car in for a coolant leak. Five months later and $4600 In charges and the motor was trashed. At first they acknowledged that the tech made some mistakes in the original service and they offered to replace the motor. Then they changed their mind and hid behind a lawyer claiming it was something wrong with the car unrelated to the work they did. We were going to hire a lawyer but just not worth messing with this guy. Carmine is a real character so be sure to get everything in writing and pray they don't do the same to your car. Just need to correct the record 1. We tried to dispute the cc charge and told Carmine we would release the funds when the work was completed - he had his lawyer get this refunded back to them even though the work was never completed as promised 2. We did not lose in court. I filed for small claims court and decided to present the case without a lawyer as I didn't think it necessary. His lawyer had the judge dismiss the first time due to a filing error on my part so I never got to present. I still can file but decided not to, but still an option 3. I was asked to remove my review or they will file for defamation. I don't think this is a good way to get rid of bad reviews. Do the right thing and being fair generally get good reviews. I think his response speaks to our situation... read more

Carmine's detailed our 2018 Lexus and finished it with a ceramic coating. They did an amazing job. The car looks like it just came off the showroom floor. read more

Whatever you do go somewhere else, I made the mistake of getting new brake pads and rotors here, $1850, little did I know it's only supposed to be about $800, I got totally ripped off, and they did nothing to remedy this. Terrible experience! read more

Called to have some performance tension and lower control arms installed on a BMW. The short of it is that they will not install customer supplied parts (something the dealership in Winston will even do). They don't offer a lifetime warranty on all parts (like a very popular online retailer does, which is why I would rather supply the parts). This place seems like a good fit for those who are looking to replace turn-key style dealership service with an independent, although the labor rate isn't that much less... The dealership experience may be worth the extra little bit per hour, and it sure will look more favorably for resale if you have dealership service history on the carfax. Enthusiasts that are on a path of long term ownership, restoration, or who are seeking improved performance; should all probably look elsewhere. Similar story for anyone looking to cut costs by using used parts that aren't sourced and marked up by the repair shop. If you fall into these groups don't worry - there are plenty of euro specific competitors in the area that are competent and would love to do business with you! Update: After leaving this review I received a phone call from the business (from same person who earlier had declined to install customer supplied parts). I was informed that since a transaction had never taken place, I was not a real customer and had no right to leave a review (even though a customer service interaction took place via telephone). I was outright called a liar during this interaction (with regards to the labor rate statement - rates which had been obtained through a mutual third party vs directly). The aggressive tone used by the caller was noticed by my wife (who was sitting a few feet away when I answered). The retort provided in relation to labor rates was that they charged different rates for different things... Based on the other review responses that I see online, this aggressive response to negative reviews seems to be par for the course for this business. If this is their response to reviews and prospective customers, I can't imagine how they would handle a real issue with a paying customer. At least I have a new story to tell in local FB car groups, Greensboro meets, and BMW CCA events. Thanks Carmine's! read more

Big warning to anyone considering this place. Short story, they tried to charge me over $450 for "diagnostic fees" without me even agreeing to any of the work on the car. Long story, took a car here to get a quote for repairing an oil leak, check engine light, and clock spring (yep, when it rains it pours). Got the estimate the next day for $3k of repairs for those items, plus $2k more of other optional recommendations. At first, we were going to have them just take care of the oil leak (highest priority to us), which according to the estimate should have been approximately $150. They told us it would be $600+ (Literally just replacing a drain plug). Didn't understand why it would be so much and they told me it's because they were charging diagnostic fees for running the check engine light and diagnosing the recommendations for repairs. That didn't sit right so I ended up calling back to tell them to scratch the oil leak repair and I'd just come pick up the car and take it somewhere else. They told me that's fine but I'd still owe $450+ for the "diagnostic fees." I worked in the car industry for years and never had a shop try to charge me that much. The only reason I'm giving two stars here instead of one is because they did finally relent and let me come pick up the car without the fees. But still had to leave this review as a warning because that's some seriously shady practices. Ended up taking the car to the actual VW dealership (which in my experience usually meant more expensive), and Flow VW Greensboro diagnosed the issues (for free) and did the repairs for less than 1/3 of what Carmines quoted. Be cautious if you're considering taking your car here. read more

This is what happens when you leave a honest review for Carmine (see screenshot in photos) based on your experience with them. They start sending threatening bullyng messages. Received almost 30 messages from them in one evening. What business threatens their customers because they don't agree with their feedback. Well they gone learn today because I responded with the same nastiness and pettiness to every single message they sent!!! Avoid this unprofessional place. Take your car to a business you can trust!!! read more

Carmine's Import Service - Auto Repair Near Me - Kernersville, North Carolina

I would give a 0 rating if I could. Definitely take your car anywhere else, the diagnostic was $200 and that is a flat fee, if you take your car here be aware that, that is the cost. completely ripped me off. They said I needed a total of $3100 worth of work done to my car. All I neeeded was front brake pads and an oil change that fixed my issue of my car, I got an amazing mechanic to do it for $200 if you would like his info let me know! read more

I received a quote in July for my Volvo to be repaired for a broken belt. I was told I would have to have my manifold removed to check my alternator. I since found out that was not true! I was quoted $2700+++ for the repair. I had my car repaired at an Import Garage in Greensboro for $1171. They showed me how they tested my alternator WITHOUT having to have the manifold removed. I write this review now because Stuart left me a voicemail today to follow up if I'd received their email regarding the repairs still needed. While Stuart is very kind & understanding. I don't feel this company is very reputable! read more

could not get past first phone call. the person that answered the call wasn't open to questions. i did not understand the pricing set up and asked questions about doing diagnostic and adding to the repair cost. the guy hung up the phone as he said he wasn't going to take this car... engine work on a Jaguar. read more

From my first phone call speaking with Stuart right up until the completion of the work this was the most professional experience with a repair facility that I have ever had. They go out of their way to keep you informed about what is going on with your vehicle and really care about their customers. We just moved to North Carolina and could not have found a better facility to care for our Mercedes ! We are customers for life!! read more

The service professionals are great. The owner not that great. They did a warranty job but after 20,000 it was bad again. Owner was very rude and banned me from the company read more

I met the carmine team at a PCA event and after describing my symptom they gave me and Herb a price range to fix the car which it seemed reasonable and I like the guys so I went out of my way to take my Porsche 944 turbo track car to replace the oil pan gasket to them. I trailered the car from south Charlotte to Kernersville which is a long drive to be jerked around. Not only they didn't honor their price but they charged me $112 dollars to tell me what I already knew. I gave them an opportunity to match what other local shops (GMP and black forest) were changing me and they declined. What a waste of time and money. I don't know their technical abilities but their business practices and customer consideration is less to be desired (not looking out for their customers time and money). The difference was $500 between GMP, Black Forest racing and Carmine's. I guess it was an expensive lesson that I will not make again and if you deal with them take this review in to account. Best of luck to the Carmine guys and I hope this helps you reconsider certain business practices. If you like to discuss this in more detail let me know read more

Carmine's Import Service - Bill in question - Auto Repair Near Me - Kernersville, North Carolina

We had our Mercedes repaired here this week and the experience was really good. The shop is capable of anything your import dealership can do. Locally owned business, support them. We just moved into town and we drive an import vehicle, it's easy to just go to the local dealership for service, but you never feel comfortable or good about their work. We found Carmine thru members of Benz world.com the owner was very friendly and runs a really good shop. We felt very comfortable the moment we spoke about our car issue. We knew we found a good Mechanic. We look forward to building a lasting relationship with Carmine's. We highly recommend them over any dealership. Give them a call, ask questions, set an appointment. You will know the difference compared to the dealership. These folks care about your car and they do great work. read more

They are willing to work with your schedule and adhere to all Covid state policies. All staff is amiable and knowledgeable about import cars, especially BMW read more

As always, the level of customer service is exceptional from Stuart and Dillon. Very responsive and frequent updates on progress, with clearly defined communication of condition of my car with recommended maintenance. I can choose what I think is necessary with detailed estimates. True it "ain't cheap", but it is worth the price in my book for the level of service that you get. You pay more at the dealership, and get far less attention and level of service. Carmines will continue to be my go to for service on my 911 Carrera S. read more

Called to get a quote on a water pump installation for my SAAB. Was told I'd have to bring it in for a diagnosis, about possibilities of rust, etc. I told the guy it's not leaking but because of age I thought it prudent to have it changed. Nope, he said, gotta diagnose it. The diagnosis was north of 100.00, again for something that didn't need diagnosing. Just needed it replaced. I wonder if they require diagnoses when replacing spark plugs? Hmmmm! Needless to say, I found a shop who'll replace it without me having to pay that unnecessary, in this case, fee. read more

Pros: professional and welcoming. They seem very knowledgable, and as apparent by the wide amount of import cars on their lot they service all the cars other shops won't touch. Range rovers, audi, etc. Very polite I was helped by carmine and he is very professional and seems like a great guy. Cons: I was upset they charged me to diagnose a leaky sun roof drain even though I went in for that specific problem and told him I had it diagnosed for that problem and was told they would call with an estimate which they did but I was not told that they would charge me $49 for each thing they looked at especially the one problem which was apparent what is wrong. They also had no problem diagnosing that I will need new brakes soon and oil service. So no diagnose fee on what they wanna up sell. The prices I was quoted on the parts is actually more expensive than the dealer and that blew me away as we all know the dealer marks up parts greatly. And their prices for parts are roughly 70% higher than what the same oem parts are online. Granted I understand this is a business and they have to make money, however these prices we're off the charts. Their labor estimates are inline with the dealer estimates on repairs which I also found odd. In closing I would suggest that if money is not an issue for you I would recommend this place I would trust them with my range rover but I couldn't trust them with my money. I was actually very disappointment as I would always rather have a local independent shop work on my car rather then a dealer but unfortunately wasn't able to make that happen. read more

I normally don't do a lot of rating, but when something this spectacular happens, I really must share it. I would be doing everyone a disservice by not providing a review, and my experience at Carmine's is nothing short of stellar. I called Carmine's, and actually talked to Carmine (a rare event these days). He and his team were incredibly helpful. Carmine found the earliest possible time for me to drop off my Eurovan (which had a horrible rotten egg smell that I was not able to track down), and his team worked on it while I waited. They found the source of the issue in record time, which ended up being my auxiliary battery, had it delivered to the shop, installed it, and had me back on the road in very little time. He even provided alternate transportation during the short time my van was there (which allowed me to get to and from a critical meeting). He and his team, may quite possibly be the best, most ethical, transparent and truly skilled european automotive repair shop here in NC (and probably beyond). Their pricing is extremely fair, and they'll go the extra mile to check your vehicle over making sure you roll out of there confident that your vehicle is in great shape. They run a top notch business. Carmine has another customer for life! read more

Stuart and Dillon exceeded our expectations again. They really took care of us from the time we walked in the door through picking up our car. Great service is what separates Carmine's from other shops read more

I had a Dinan power pack upgrade as well as some M-performance parts installed for my BMW 435xi convertible with Carmine's shop. Carmine is a highly ethical person and this is exactly how he is running his business. Professionalism: very professional team both in written and verbal communication. Communication: the team kept me updated throughout the process, they were quick to respond to emails and I appreciated the pictures of my car as it was being developed and tuned before I actually went to pick up the car. Courtesy car: while mine was worked on for four days, they provided a Dinan tuned BMW as a courtesy car. Pricing: reasonable pricing, at one point there was a small confusion between two quotes as the pricing changed. Carmine stepped in immediately and responded to the email that whatever is the more favorable pricing, he will honor that. Care: they treated my car as if it was one of their own. The car came back in the exact same condition as I left it there. Overall I'm very happy with the process from beginning till the end and with the final result. The car looks good, sounds good and performs amazing! I will certainly use them for future services and would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone! read more

The guys at Carmine's have really picked up their game since my last visit which was also awesome. I was taken care of from the start by service advisor Stuart McHenry who went over everything with me step by step in a courteous and professional manner, my estimate was clean and concise and I received a complete inspection of my Mercedes by Technician Steven Hundley who also performed the indicated services to my vehicle to have it running in tip top condition. I couldn't be more pleased with the service I received and I was treated fairly and honestly from start to finish. I was also taken good care of with the fast and reliable shuttle service which carmine's provides for its customers. These guys know how to take care of your vehicle and you can be sure your in good hands with them, thanks guys for another outstanding experience with Carmine's Import Service read more

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I bought a 2002 Volvo S60 which was one owner with 135 thousand miles. I took the car to Carmine's. They did a excellent inspection which resulted in an itemized detail. I was able to identify the priority of repairs, those I could do and those to leave to the experts. The repairs I approved were completed well. My problem with the car was taking it to Carmine's after I purchased it. I should have taken the car before buying it. I am extremely satisfied with the work and associated costs. I plan to use Carmine's in the future. I highly recommend their services. read more

This was the first time to use Carmine as an alternative to the dealer in GSO. Service personnel polite and knowledgeable. Process smooth. Would definitely return. Completion of service took two days to complete seemed a little long but they explained difficulty in obtaining part. read more

The is an amazing garage. They are honest and do quality work. They fixed the clutch on my 911 and did it PERFECTLY. They communicate well, give reasonable estimates, and stand behind their work. I recommend them and I don't do it lightly. I will be a return customer. read more

Excellent auto repair shop. I highly recommend. I have a Range Rover and they have done any repairs that it needed. Very happy with service. I recommend anyone with a Range Rover to use this repair shop. read more

I just never ever feel nervous about going here. I know my car will be treated well and so will I. They never talk down to you, call you 'little lady' or act like they can bully you. I got my Mercedes at CarMax but hubs insisted we get it serviced here where he gets his car serviced. First off they inspected the car to make sure I got a 'good deal' -they offered to teach me whatever I need to know to use all the toys but I never got around to taking them up on it. They have answered every single question, regardless of how stupid. I locked myself out of the car while it was running which they claimed was nearly impossible. They grilled me on everything I did to try to determine how it happened to make sure the car was operating (behaving) correctly. It became clear that one does not start the car from the passenger seat then close the doors. They auto locked since I had to run inside to look for my purse, when I got back I was locked out. The spare key was ignored and I needed to use the 'blade' to get in. Whew! I was minutes away from calling carmines! The last time I was there, I was given a loaner to use while I had service and new tires done. It was Veteran's Day and I was thanked for my service, even given a certificate for a facial! which was very nice -females rarely get that but Carmine's wife served and these guys treat women right. They did a modification on hub's Porsche, which was a tricky save. Apparently, a part might go bad and if it did -good bye car. They checked and we had a defective part that had not gone bad, they did some voodoo-modification and now hub's car is safe and he is very happy. We would never take our cars anywhere else. As far as working on cars, my hubs is a very good computer programmer and should never touch a wrench. I know enough to recognize mechanics I can just trust for good dependable work. and if you have a little issue with something silly like greasy fingerprints on the windshield -they take it very seriously and thank you! They are so into doing good work and maintaining a good reputation, they appreciate a complaint... wow! read more

I dealt with other BMW garages prior to my first trial with carmine several years ago and I am glad I switched. Servicing a BMW is expensive, but it is the little extras that keep me coming back to carmines like shuttle service to / from work. What really secured my business was several years ago I damaged a side mirror and Paul took the time to find a used one in perfect condition, have it painted and save me a lot of money. Also last week I had a warning light come on and I pulled in to their shop unannounced, they inspected the warning light, corrected it and I was gone in 15 minutes and it was done at no charge read more

Good service and knowledgable staff. They listen to what the customer has to say. Carmine tells it like it is, he is a straight shooter. Let's you kow exactly what is going on with your vehicle and keeps you up informed the whole time. I will definitely bring my vehicle back. read more

Excellent service! I have no idea why anyone would say differently. I had to have some suspension and brake components installed on extremely short notice for a track weekend after another service shop cancelled my appointment last minute. Carmine and his team took care of everything, and squeezed me into their schedule so I didn't have to miss out on a great weekend. Carmine and staff are very knowledgeable, they take their time to explain any/all repairs, and will gladly answer any questions you have. I have made the lengthy commute to Carmine's on numerous occasions from my residence in Chapel Hill simply because it's a shop I can trust. Highly recommend. read more

I had some issues with my Mini Cooper that happened over the course of a week and they went well above and beyond to ensure I was happy and understood what was going on. They fixed the car at an extremely fair price and I will be using them in the future for all my service needs. I cannot express how happy I was with service I received and would highly recommend them to all my friends and family! read more

Have use Carmine's for years. They are excellent in Foreign car repair. Much easier to deal with than the dealership. Carmine the owner is very accessible. Would highly recommend this repair business. read more

I just bought my first BMW from Carmine's & it was a great experience. Everyone was so helpful & patiently answered all my questions. I also needed some weather stripping repaired & they took care of it lickety split. I plan to continue using them for my regular maintenance & any repairs & I will definitely refer them to friends & family. Thanks guys! read more

I will always have my vehicles serviced at Carmines in Kernersville. The expertise of the staff and management is amazing, and the professionalism is unmatched. The digital reports that are automatically sent to your email inbox are a wonderful bonus for an extra piece of mind. They thoroughly inspect your car and prioritize any services that may be required which are all compiled in the digital report. I have never been more satisfied knowing that my car is in great hands with honest and the certified staff of Carmines. read more