Justin did a great job in diagnostics and solved our problem - we will be back soon as an honest mechanic is good to find

Negligent, Arrogant and Unethical I prefer to put the worst auto shop experience of my life behind me and never look back, but given the negligence, arrogance and unethical behavior I experienced at Cowden Automotive, it's my social responsibility to share. I hired Cowden to do a simple hardtop installation on my truck since it takes 3 people to place top on vehicle, tho rest can be done by one. Day of install, Justin from Cowden called saying the top was "defective" and insisted I go into a legal battle w hardtop company. By an act of god, someone from Texas hardtop company happened to be in California visiting family. I asked rep to visit, Justin rudely fought this, but finally at great inconvenience to rep he came to Cowden. Turns out Cowden installed top without watching clear rudimentary installation video, they didn't remove 2x large parts before installing top, so top didn't fit! Rep re-installed on site at no cost. I shared installation video w Justin 2x via email before install, 1x day of install, plus install day I confirmed with Justin + his dad owner Mike they would follow video instructions. Their only job was to follow simple instructions, they didn't, nor did they have skills to trace steps with video after failed install. Mistakes happen, but there was zero remorse from Justin, zero cost reduction, he was very rude to me, the rep, and had I not caught installation error on video, it's clear he'd have charged for extra time due to shop negligence, plus I'd be out $7K paid for top. I asked him about accountability, he said he doesn't stand by the work done at shop, since he can't oversee everyone. Wow. Hands down, most unethical, negligent and arrogant auto shop I've ever experienced. I wouldn't trust these guys to install windshield wiper blades, much less anything mechanical where safety is concerned. Beware. read more

Cowden Automotive (All Pro Mechanicx) replaced the transmission of my 2020 Toyota Corolla. I picked it up today. They did an outstanding job. Car runs like it is brand new. The job was done pretty quickly. Could not be happier with All Pro Mechanicx (Cowden). I've been a customer for many years. I'll be back. Thank you! read more

Mike and Justin were fantastic to work with, up front and accurate about estimated costs, and have excellent communication with customers. They replaced my axle seals and bearings for less than half of what the $tealership quoted me. Their shop is clean, organized, and easy to get to. Would recommend their services and will be back later. read more

Brought my aging Honda for brakes and tune-up at Cowden--Justin diagnosed extras transparently, fixed everything efficiently under quote, test drove with me post-repair. Spotless shop, friendly crew; drove confidently knowing it's solid. Lifetime go-to garage! read more

What a joke! I asked for a quote for a specific job of simple replacement of light bulbs and they say that the car will need to be inspected first and that will cost $190!! Told them I am not interested and thanked them for their time to send a ridiculous quote!! read more

These guys? The best! Knowledgeable, efficient, call you to let you know what they have found needs doing, done when they say they'll be done. No hidden costs , no upselling or time wasting . My 14 year old car hums along thanks to them . I've sent others to them and the folks are ALWAYS very pleased. Bonus? They are really nice guys! read more

Justin took care of me and my car like we where his own. Everyone at Cowden was so helpful. The 3 things i look for in people and business... are they silly, honest, and kind? They passed my test with flying colors. read more

I had my power steering pump and fuel pump replaced on my 1966 Thunderbird. I would recommend them.

Cowden Automotive is my new mechanic! I took my older van in for some AC work, which they performed quite well. I knew there was some other work that needed to be done on the van, but I wanted to see how the did on the AC before I committed to deeper work. Justin did a diagnostic and confirmed the work I knew needed done. I appreciated that. He worked up a plan to do all the work at once to save in labor costs. The turnaround was fast, service was top notch, and the van runs so much better! I'm getting at least another hundred miles per tank now! Thank you Justin and Cowden Automotive, a job well done! read more

I started going to Cowden Automotive back in the '90's and after buying my Prius in 2008, started letting Toyota Services take care of my upkeep and repairs. Big mistake. Came back to Cowden in 2022 where I received efficient, reliable, lower-priced, clearly-explained service and repair without attempts to sell me anything not necessary. Plus, the guys are such a pleasure to deal with! read more

I've taken my BMW here multiple times and will continue to do so. Justin and the team always take care of me and are super pleasant to work with! Appreciate all the help and hard from you guys! read more

Justin and his team did an excellent job on my car. I brought my BMW wagon in for a valve cover and gasket replacement. I was quoted a very fair price and the work was done probably better than any dealership. I highly recommend their shop. read more

Absurd pricing for suspension control arm bushings. OEM is less than $500 for the parts. read more

Cowden Automotive - Quote - Auto Repair Near Me - San Francisco, California

$105 Oil change. Yikes that's expensive. I'm in South San Francisco & I can get an oil change for $80 here.

Justin the owner is super nice and reasonable. Oil change was quick and easy - got quote and booked appointment through yelp.

The reasons for my review are multiple, this place is way overpriced, the baseline fee was a ridiculous $190, which turn out to be a waste of money and time since I ultimately ended up taking the car somewhere else to be fixed. I started to get a bad impression when the person helping me didn't know that my car doesn't have an alternator. And basically was pushing me to replace a part, half-asing the pricing and hedging on information. He was not only unreliable but also rude and condescending. I admit I don't know much about cars but I did not appreciate being berated for asking questions in order to understand the warranty that I would be purchasing if went ahead and replace the part. after that it was an easy choice and took my business elsewhere. A quick update: I'm really glad I took the car to another mechanic, it turns out that the recommendation provided in this shop was totally wrong, the part I was told to replace was in great condition and did not need to be replaced at all. So not only is this place unreputable in my eyes but the person took advantage by charging me a 'base rate' to check out the car, and tried to scam me even more by lying that I needed to replace a part turn out to be great condition and would cost $390 plus labor. If you go to this place be careful. read more

I recently needed some repairs to my 2013 Infinity and Justin at Cowden was recommended. I wish I had know about him (professional very knowable) and this repair shop sooner. Great timely service at reasonable cost, including follow up. I's recommend this shop the everyone. Ed Schnaars read more

These guys are AWESOME! I will never, ever take my car to the dealer again -- Justin explains exactly what's needed, patiently answering any questions, and then they do the work faster, better and cheaper than any dealer. Twice now, they've fixed a small broken motor in my 2004 Honda Pilot (one in the seat and one in the heater), helping me keep a good, solid car with a great engine safely and comfortably on the road. Both Justin and Mike are friendly, thoroughly competent guys, as are everyone there I'm sure. I will never take my cars anywhere else! read more

Professional integrity is all but non existent and work quality is sub-standard at best. After doing business for over a decade with the original owner Paul Cowden, it is truly disappointing to see the decline of what used to be a top notch auto repair shop. I brought my car in to be serviced for a loud 'clacking noise' emanating from the wheel of the car. It took two back-to-back trips (September/October 2019) to Cowden who never accurately diagnosed the problem; but instead charged me over $700 for parts and labor that were entirely unrelated to the problem. I finally took my car to the BMW dealership who promptly zeroed in on the 'clacking' noise...which was a wheel bearing rubbing against the rear tire! This was a basic repair job that could and should have been easily detected and repaired on my first visit to Cowden. The time,energy and money I wasted was significant. I would discourage anyone from doing business with Cowden Automotive because their professional standards, workmanship and integrity at this juncture leaves a lot to be desired. I strongly recommend going elsewhere. read more

I agree, I've turned a lot of friends on to this place and I've been going there for years. (They even work on Citroen 2CVs). They have never done unnecessary work and they do stand behind all that they do. Plus, they are gender preference progressive without being in your face about it. 10% off coupon: http://cowdenauto.citysearch.com/page/nrmw/Coupon.html Highly recommended! read more

Cowden Automotive - Auto Repair Near Me - San Francisco, California

I was in the middle of a move. I shipped most of my things up from Southern California to Oregon but decided to road trip it up with my car. After having dinner with friends I went back to my car and it wouldn't start. I was able to get my car towed to Cowden Automotive. The entire staff was so kind and professional. They did a great job explaining what issues my car was having and possible solutions for the issues. They made a very stressful unexpected problem a lot easier. I am very thankful to the Cowden Automotive staff. I recommend going to them for your car problems. read more

Had an emergency down in the city. I'm not from the city, so an emergency when you're out of town is an emergency. The gentleman on the telephone was extremely unhelpful, rude, and I can definitely tell this is not the place you take your vehicle if you have an emergency. They are not nice mechanics, they do not seem like they are good people. They sure are not helpful. And they sure seem like they were getting on the milking gloves. They kept asking me if the repair cost would be coming out of my pocket or my company's. That was strange. I'm always on the lookout for these businesses that try to destroy my company's pocket book through their terrible overpriced service. This was a big warning sign. Go here if you like this kind of stuff. I don't. read more

Justin and Mike are solid auto mechanics, trustworthy, and fair. They know cars! They have kept my 2010 Subaru Legacy happy for many years.

I was referred by a coworker. I took my 1995 Mazda here in 2004 when it sprung a "major" oil leak. It was gushing. After Cowden Automotive "fixed" it, it never stopped leaking, completely. It was easy to tell, since I park in my garage, at home - and can observe the oil slick. When I brought my car back, they hooked it up to a machine, and ran a "diagnosis", and told me that I had something wrong with a bearing in one of my wheels, and would eventually need major work (eventually, the wheel would just fall off) and that although oil was still apparantly leaking, they couldn't tell me where the leak was coming from until after they cleaned the engine - which would cost several hundred dollars. Essentially, I had to pay a couple hundred dollars so they could tell me what I would need to pay to fix the problem. The whole time was I was there, I felt as though I was being bilked, and taken advantage of. My car had serious problems, and I was pretty much at their mercy. The owner would go into this in depth explanation of what was wrong, and what was recommended, and how much it would cost - but in a *confident, used car salesman* sort of way. I paid the $90 for their "diagnosis", and decided to trade my car in and buy a new car. This is the company that gives good auto mechanics a very bad name. Steer clear of Cowden Automotive! read more

This is the only place I trust with my vehicles. Paul is kind, considerate, and knowledgeable, Hector is always ready to help you troubleshoot over the phone, and the rest of the crew is as awesome as can be. I can't tell you how many times I had my various cars towed into this joint to be fixed speedily and thoroughly by the crew. It's got to be one of the only shops I've ever been to that doesn't talk down to you because you're a female. Quite the contrary, they are generous with their time, making sure you know exactly what is going on with your vehicle. Not cheap, but so thorough you won't be coming back in for a long time. That is totally worth it. They also will work within your budget, fixing the "immediate" as opposed to the "down the road" repairs for you, saving you $ in the short and long haul. Shop is spotless, mechanics moonlight as classical music composers, and it's gay-owned and operated! What more do you want?! These guys are my car-guardian-angels. read more

It is awful service That I've ever seen, no body care about your car, disrespectful personal, do not wash cars, do cheat with maintenance supplies. I do not recommend to go them. read more

This place sucks ! I was charged almost $1600 to do a clutch fan on my Lexus RX450 . After the fact I found out that Lexus of Marin would have done the same job for around $900 and would have used O.E.M. parts . Never again will I use this place. read more

Hands down the most qualified shop for classic cars in the area! I have own my 1970 Cougar for 10 years and she has never run as smooth and powerful as she does after visiting Cowden for a tuneup. Simply cannot be happier with their service and expertise! read more

About 100 years ago, when I was new in my business, I owned an ancient Toyota Corolla wagon. It was absolutely essential to keep this puppy on the road and Paul and crew understood what was needed. Flash forward a few years and I have a fleet of 6 vehicles. Guess where I take them when something goes wrong or just routine maintenance? Cowden Automotive. The fact that they're in our 'hood helps, but I would drive cross town to patronize this business. Very honest and they always explain what they are doing. Good if you're not super engine oriented, like myself (hey, I'm a plant guy!) Like the other posters said, not cheap, but you do get what you pay for, and what you pay for at Cowden is the job being done right. Sure you could eat off the floor in this garage, but my question is why would you want to? read more

Back when I had a Mitsubishi Eclipse, I used to know my mechanics on a first-name basis. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to find a good one -- the Mitsubishi dealers are too overrun with repairs to do a good job with anybody's cars. When my master cylinder failed and I had to take my car somewhere nearby, a friend recommended Cowden. The guys there are courteous and friendly, and will take the time to explain each repair they find necessary (both when and why). They kept my previously-troublesome Eclipse in great working order through careful maintenance and prevention. They're well worth the money. I have an Acura now, so I don't see them for anything but maintenance. I've been counting on Yelp reviews for some time now, but Cowden is the thing that's made me actually sign up and start contributing. read more

I love these guys!! I have had a few cars since 1990, and Cowden has helped me with all of them. Paul runs an efficient, honest, and clean shop (you could literally eat off the floor!). I started taking my car to Cowden when I was a student and broke, and Paul was great with helping me figure out the lowest cost options. I brought in second hand cars for him to check out before I bought them, and then his shop helped me keep them ticking along nicely -- one for 16 years! His employees stay forever because it appears that he is as good to them as he is to his lucky customers. And ok, this really shouldn't be a factor, but he totally cried when his old dog finally died. read more

Paul dropped a new engine in my 59 Ghia in 85 and still going strong. The best mechanics and cleanest shop I've every seem.. read more

I cheated on my mechanic...oops. However, this is my official side mechanic! I just needed a tire, and mike was able to give me his best recommendation. He ordered the tire and it was there SAME DAY. I love it. He also pointed out something wrong with my car and gave me great advice. He knew my loyalty to my mechanic, so he wasn't even doing it to upsell me. He was going above and beyond to bring things to my attention. Human decency at its finest! When I drove back to LA, I was able to talk to my mechanic about it. Thanks mike for your attention to detail! read more

Have been going to Cowden for over 10 years, for a variety of different issues, and I've always been satisfied. They're friendly, helpful, honest and knowledgeable. That's about as much as I feel I can reasonably ask from a mechanic. They're conveniently located a few blocks from Bart in SOMA and Paul Cowden is just about the nicest person you could work with. (Everyone in the shop is friendly.) read more

I just moved from the NY/NJ area and found Cowden on the net and seeing the reviews., I just held my breath and hoped they were true. While two other mechanics back east told me my 99 4Runner needed a catalytic convertor, the prices were way out of line, as were the wait times to get the job done. (The Toyota dealer wanted $1200 for the work and the indie shop wanted about $600.) Now only did Cowden take me without an appointment, they even took it next door to get the smog cert. The job was done on time and for less than even the East coast indie. The only fly in the ointment is that my radio no longer works (I think a fuse got blown. But who knows what happened...) Paul is great, Hector is great and I think I found my mechanic in San Francisco. read more

When it comes to auto repair people are always critical about what is actually wrong with their cars. I have had my own share of not trusting mechanics that i have worked with in the past. I have been going to see Paul at Cowden Automotive for 4 years now. In the 4 years i have never had any issues with them. They are the the most honest and trustworthy mechanic i have ever worked with. I would highly recommend them to any of my friends. read more

I add ANOTHER wonderful experience at Cowden Auto last week. There was a clicking sound coming from the back wheels. They said to bring it in the next and they'd check it out. They drove it around the block and in less than 30 minute gave me the thumbs up it was nothing to worry about. It's something that comes with the Ford Escape 2006 model. They could have easily told me it was an expensive fix, but Mike and his son Justin have integrity. I trust them 100% with my car. They're nice, honest and hardworking guys. This is my 4th experience with Cowden's and they are my forever auto repair shop. Thank you again Justin & Mike!! read more

The best mechanic shop...period. Paul and his crew are friendly, honest, and well, they just do good work. I have been going here for years upon years...over 15? They have worked on all of my imports (no americano here), now on the fourth vehicle... They will not rob you blind or do work that is unnecessary. Paul will show you (on actual parts) what your issue is and dumb it down so even a 10 year old could understand. It's not an act, it's so you feel good about the repairs being made. I highly recommend ! read more

Where shall I start?? Paul Cowden and his team have been my mechanic for almost 20 years. I recently moved from the Bay Area to Seattle and was not sure where I would find a mechanic as kind, detailed, thorough and fair in Seattle as Paul. My 1999 Toyota Rav 4 suddenly has had some troubles and I did some research and found a mechanic in Seattle. When I took it in, the estimate was $1,400... Yikes!! Much of what was quoted was work I thought was recently completed by Cowden. Well, I didn't have my "car file" which Paul so carefully keeps on your car so I took a chance and called him to see if I needed all this work that was advised. First, Paul was incredibly kind to take my call as I no longer work directly with him since I moved to Seattle. But alas, Paul always goes above and beyond with service and discussed with me what the new shop in Seattle was advising compared to what work I had recently completed in May. As always, Paul and crew are incredibly thorough and complete and he found all my information on past work completed on his computer and shaved the dollars off my estimate. Now, how many mechanics do you know that would help a former customer who doesn't even live in the area? Paul was that guy. If you are looking for a wise, organized, fair and honest mechanic, Cowden is the place. You will always know up front what to expect cost wise as well knowing when you drive out that your car will have the best service and complete work needed. Paul even helped me sell a truck I had 10 years ago. I can not recommend Paul Cowden and his team enough for their good work, honesty,fair price and kindness. I miss them but it was amazing to know I still am part of the Cowden family even though I now live in Seattle. read more