Went here for some help on an oil drain plug and oil filter that just wouldn't give no matter how hard I tried. These kind folk unscrewed my stuff and sent me on my way with no charge. A simple service, yes, but indicative to their commitment to customer service and helping the community. Will be going here for future auto issues! read more

I can't recommend Dragonfly Automotive enough. I brought my Audi A3 in for routine maintenance along with a fairly involved sensor issue, and the team exceeded my expectations. Rather than jumping straight to an expensive replacement, they took the time to properly diagnose the problem and were able to fix it without replacing the sensor--which speaks volumes about their expertise and honesty. What really stood out was their transparency. Based on a prior inspection from another shop, I was expecting to be pitched a long list of additional repairs. When I brought that up, they took the opposite approach. They explained the actual condition of the parts, talked through what was worth addressing now versus later, and gave clear guidance on what to monitor going forward--without any pressure. Communication was solid from start to finish, and everything was explained clearly and straightforwardly. The final cost also came in well below what I anticipated. It's rare to find a shop that balances technical skill, clear communication, and real integrity, but Dragonfly Automotive does exactly that. I'll absolutely be back and would recommend them to anyone looking for a mechanic they can trust. read more

My car was driven over 130 miles in less than 24 hours while in the care of Dragonfly Automotive PB. Julio, at the front desk, told me they were running computer diagnostics, a procedure which usually costs just shy of $200. He also let me know my car was driven to Spring Valley, 18 miles one way. There was no accounting for the additional miles driven. There was nothing wrong with my car. I am left with a feeling of violation. read more

I am happy to find this friendly, knowledgeable auto service near me to help keep my 2017 Chevy Bolt happy. Fry diagnosed a rattle that I thought was going to be an expensive repair, and recommended not messing with the offending plastic cover. With his instruction, a credit card sufficed and that aggravation is history! The minimal cost was minor compared to Chevy Service. read more

I will never go any place else to get my car serviced. I have been loyal to dragonfly for many years for the simple fact that I do not feel like they try and take advantage of me. Especially as a woman. The prices are reasonable, service is efficient, Julio is professional and the new location is great. They took over pacific beach certified auto with the old owners praising them. That tells you something! Trust me, this is the best place to get any car service needs. They believe in quality and will not try and upsell you things you do not need. Thank you for taking care of my cars! read more

Dragonfly Automotive - Auto Repair Near Me - San Diego, California

Brought my car to this place and the main mechanic was extremely honest about my car. Highly recommend read more

The guys at Dragonfly are great!! Highly highly recommended. They are honest and smart. I've brought my car in twice and both times they fixed the issue straightaway. My go-to car shop. read more

Really appreciate the honesty, professionalism and competence of the team at Dragonfly. They've just finished an excellent bumper repair on my Audi, as well as a complex sensor and cylinder issue a couple of weeks prior. Where other shops insisted I needed a full bumper replacement, Dragonfly made the existing bumper like new at less than half the cost. Honest and friendly - I've definitely found my spot for future auto needs. Thank you! read more

I arrived at Dragonfly Automotive on a busy day with no appointment set, I had a stripped bolt that had disallowed my dead battery from being removed/ replaced, desperate looking for a solution. Lauren greeted me with a warm smile an immediately went to ask her mechanic Alex if he could help us out. Within 5 minutes of me arriving Alex HUSTLED out of the shop garage in between working on two other cars with a long socket wrench determined to make our day. Within ten minutes the stripped bolt was off and my new battery was in and secured and I was ready to drive off. The quality of customer service was outstanding and Alex is passionate about teaching others how to take care of their vehicles which made my experience feel more personal and enjoyable! Dragonfly Automotive didnt feel like a car shop, it felt like a friendly neighbor extending a helping hand. Thank you Lauren, Alex and Dragonfly Automotive for saving the day and once again proving that in this crazy world good honest quality service and people still exist, you just have to ask/ look in the right places! read more

I can't recommend Dragonfly Auto enough. My experience with them has been nothing short of amazing, even before I set foot in their shop. I initially called to get a quote for a cracked axle shaft after another auto shop told me it needed to be replaced, quoting over $1,000. Julio, who answered my call, went above and beyond. Not only did he explain that this issue might actually be covered by my local Mazda dealership, but he also took the initiative to call the dealership himself to confirm. Sure enough, it was covered, saving me over $1,000 before I had even become a customer. That level of honesty and effort blew me away. When I later needed a brake flush, I knew exactly where to go. Dragonfly Auto did an excellent job at a price that was significantly more affordable than other shops I'd checked. Julio and the team were incredibly kind and clearly focused on helping people, not just making money. If you're looking for an auto shop with exceptional service, fair prices, and genuine integrity, look no further than Dragonfly Auto. They've earned a loyal customer for life! read more

Julio was so helpful to problem shoot my 2008 4Runner that decided to not start. We live right around the corner and he offered to walk over to run diagnostics. Long story short he figured out it was the after market key chip had gone bad in our keys. He even thought that might be it even before running diagnostics. Super nice guy and wouldn't let me pay for his time. The shop is so nice and well kept too. We will definitely be returning to Julio at Dragonfly for any future needs. Thank you! read more

I recently took my car in for an oil change/filter replacement. Excellent service and the work was completed quickly and at a very fair price. I really appreciate the feedback link I received for suggested future services on my vehicle. Zero hard sell on any services offered. Thanks Julio! read more

Does TRUST matter to you? What about people who care? And back their product? How about a local family? Like long-term multi-generation local? And do you like nice people? Then these guys are for you. I have a new-ish car. After a routine oil change (dealership offered for free, but that's 20 miles away.... what is my time worth?) they noticed a leaky gasket. PB Certified told me: 1. Not an emergency. I could get to Mammoth and back and be ok. 2. They COULD fix it for me, but it's under warranty, so I'd be better off taking it to the dealership. More or less, they gave me advice that LOST them money. What does that say about them? A lot. My other reviews over the years pasted below. Customer since 2009 when they fixed a four-wheel-drive issue on my Ford Expolrer. Since then, they've handled maintenance for my Audi, my Jeep, and my wife's Lexus. PRO-TIP: Call ahead if your needs are urgent. This isn't Jiffy-Lube and they can get busy. ____ The best garage in North Pacific Beach, if not all of PB.... if not San Diego south of La Jolla. These guys are on point. They're not a discount garage, but their prices are fair and the service they provide is next level. Reasons to visit PB Certified for your car repair needs: You live in San Diego and own a car. You're not a car-guy and need someone you can trust. You're not from the area and need a reliable team to work on your car. You don't want to go to Jiffy Lube (no offense to those guys). You're a grown-up and able to make an appointment (although not always necessary). Had a neighborhood mechanic before you lived in San Diego and yearn for someone that gives a darn for customer service and a job well done. You like nice people. Then this is your local garage. No one ever WANTS to take there car in. But when you need to, you should 1/8/2013Previous review IF.... You're not a car-guy and need someone you can trust. You're not from the area and need a reliable team to work on your car. You don't want to go to Jiffy Lube (no offense to those guys). You're a grown-up and able to make an appointment (although not always necessary). You're willing to pay for what you get (these guys are fairly priced, but an oil change probably does cost more than Jiffy Lube). Had a neighborhood mechanic before you lived in San Diego and yearn for someone that gives a darn for customer service and a job well done. You like nice people. You live in the North PB / South Birdrock area.... Then this is your local garage. No one ever WANTS to take there car in. But when you need to, you should 2/28/2011Previous review Had to come here twice already in 2011 for two different cars (one foreign, one domestic SUV w/ 4wd).  Always great to deal with, quick and smiling. I know there are a lot of transplants in PB, so if you're looking for "that garage you trusted" from whatever non-San Diego town you grew up in, give these guys a try.  Everything is on the up and up here. 11/3/2010Previous review Had an issue that I was pretty sure I knew the answer to, but since I wasn't able to fix it myself, I took it into PB Certified on Tuesday for their help. As usual, Elizabeth & crew were super friendly, called me later with a diagnostic and what my options were and what it would cost.  Called me promptly again when it was all done. Much like the dentist, you don't really want to go to the mechanic... but when you do, it's great to have an honest, friendly, dependable one in the North PB hood. 12/21/2009Previous review Picked up my car the other day (they had to order a part).  The part was delivered when they said it'd be in (they called to let me know too) and they had it back to me when they said they would. When I asked if they could change my oil (without going into their office), they said sure thing and sure enough, it was on the bill and I got a little oil reminder sticker on the window too. Everyone I've met there is super nice too, so that's a bonus. 12/11/2009Previous review Really friendly service, responsive and honest.  Just used these guys for the first time at the recommendation of another garage who wasn't able to fix an electrical problem for me. You're never happy to have to take your car into the shop, but at least with these guys, you don't feel like you're getting ripped off read more

The absolute best! So honest and trustworthy. Recently just bought, and this was my go to automotive for the past eight years, and it will continue to be. Julio, thank you for your service today. I really appreciate it. Also, Jimmy, has been there forever and has and always remembers me. It's hard to find a good mechanic who you can trust, and they are definitely one. read more

The staff was extremely friendly, knowledgable and timely with the service. I appreciated their quick communication and flexibility while I changed dates a couple of times. read more

Love this place! Lowest price I've seen to get my oil changed, and they did not charge labor to change my air filter. Very responsive and was right on time for how long they said, and the customer service is great! Will definitely be coming back read more

I just had my first experience with Liz and Steve at P.B Certified Auto. It was great. Each of them are very friendly and knowledgeable; my repair was done on time; and for the agreed upon cost. I'll be back! Thanks so much. I look forward to bringing any future repairs to you guys. Sean M. read more

These folks are awesome. I had a weird knocking noise in my car. They kept the car for a couple of hours, and kept me informed about what was happening. In the end, they told me I could take care of the issue now or wait... I so appreciate the honesty. They also checked the fluids in my car and filled up the tires... No charge for any of this. I will definitely be back! read more

Well, I could write a book but.. my most recent visit (after about 20 years of using PBC) was when I had agreed to let my friend use my car to take his driver's test at the DMV. These appointments at the DMV book far in advance and if you don't show up, it's not good. Sure enough, the day before the scheduled appointment, the car would not start and it was not the battery. I had it towed to PBC and got it to them around 3:00 PM. I explained that I needed the car the following afternoon. They ordered a new alternator, had it installed and ready to go in plenty of time. They impressed my friend who now has his own car and will use them for repairs. Other times when I have my car in for service, they pick me up from work to get back to their location. What service. Steve and Elizabeth feel like family and I highly recommend their shop read more

Steven and Liz are awesome! Over the past 3 years I've been taking my cars to them. They've fixed a starter, and alternator, done a brake job, and even helped with some electrical work on a fuse box. On the latest repair, the alternator, it seemed to work for a couple of days, but then the battery died. They took back in, updated a wiring harness that was noted in a TSB, and ultimately traced it to a bad alternator and replaced it under warranty. I've found them to be more than honest and pricing fair, which unfortunately is not common in mechanics these days. read more

Driving over from Arizona I noticed that my brakes were making some noises. Elizabeth was very friendly when I called to ask about service and I took my car in a couple hours later. Very friendly staff when I got there! I received a prompt phone call with their assessment and breakdown of price - which was very reasonable, and my car was ready the same day. As an out of state visitor it was so nice to have the level of service that I received and I would recommend to anyone looking for a reasonable price and quality service! read more

Was recommended by a friend and they didn't let me down. Told me to bring it right in. My coolant level was low and they took care of it right away. They are beyond nice and would 100% recommend to anyone. Thank you!! read more

Be careful with this place. They said I have a oxygen sensor problem and it's going to cost me over $700 after said and done. I went another spot and said it's only a vacuum leak and it only cost me $80. read more

This was the best automotive repair experience I can remember. There was no wait, the repairs were fast and the prices reasonable, and Steve, Elizabeth and Jimmy treated me like family. I would add more than five stars if I could. read more

Liz and Steve are the best PB locals always treat their customers with the upmost care and respect. I would recommend them over any other general automotive repair shop in the Pacific Beach area. read more

Really great local people. My starter went out in my Kia and I called at 7:30am on the dot, Elizabeth answered and was so knowledgeable and courteous. She gave me a quote right away. So I dropped my car off that morning. She advised me she would call and let me know if it was anything more and if they could fix it in one day. She did call and let me know they could fix the car today which was a definite relief! I didn't know if I would be there by the time they close at 5 and she kindly offered to come back to the shop at 6 to let me get my car. I ended up getting there at 4 and received a warm welcome by her and her husband they let me know they fixed the starter and I needed an oil change (which they couldn't do that day because they were super busy) understandable. I was just happy/relieved they could help me out in a jam like this. If you have any car issues I would suggest going here, they were upfront and honest people and I so appreciate that! read more

I had my 02 Ford Expedition towed to P.B. Certified due to engine problems. When I arrived I was greeted warmly by Elizabeth, she went over a few things and said she'd get back to me before the end of the day. I received a call from her a few hours later explaining that my engine block was cracked and that I needed a new block. Even though they weren't able to replace the motor I was given the greatest customer service. Due to AAA Insurance and Wind and Sea towing complications I had to leave my car on their property for 4 days in which Elizabeth and Steve were extremely understanding about, I felt no pressure or stress from them which was huge considering I was already overwhelmed regarding my vehicle issues. I will absolutely recommend and will personally use P.B. Certified in the future for all my automotive mechanical needs. Thank you Elizabeth and Steve for your professionalism, understanding and hospitality! read more

Dragonfly Automotive - P.B. Certified Repair shop - Auto Repair Near Me - San Diego, California

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Thought about this one for a bit, but with new info I know that this will help people. I went into PB Certified (PBC, at times here) with two issues, and was quoted a fee for diagnostic labor. I thought the quote was high, but I figured they may be good at what they do, and I am willing to pay for quality. I didn't know how high it was until the problem was handled elsewhere, and in hindsight, it is clear that I didn't get what I paid for. As I said, I had two issues with my vehicle. The first issue -- I now know -- was related to a faulty ignition relay. PBC discovered this issue, and narrowed it to the relay in the electrical system. As the issue was yielding an inconsistent result (car starting intermittently), they began by replacing the relay to test (which I was not charged for), but it still functioned intermittently. Over the next few days, they kept my car, and updated me periodically with "still nothing!" in terms of a remedy. After 5 or 6 days (I believe) I finally, I told them to stop working on the issue as they admitted they were stumped. Fair enough, I suppose. Diagnostic fee lost; "maybe it is a more complex issue?", I thought at the time. So what was the issue? The connections on the plug on the relay in question were rustled loose. If one were to look at the plug with any scrutiny (as I now have), the conclusion would be inescapable. When you pick up the sensor, the wires clearly fall out of their plastic fitting (but I am not going to describe it further here). Especially given that they tried another (presumably functioning) part, and the intermittance of the issue, I cannot understand how the fitting was not investigated, especially given the high diagnostic fee (as compared to the shop that actually fixed it today) as such a fee should imply that a thorough inspection will be done. How it was overlooked by PBC is baffling, but again, they didn't end up charging for a repair, and I do not consider incompetence to be malicious. The second issue was regarding the transmission, in that it would not shift into overdrive at high speed (when it should engage). While PBC did not claim to be experts in transmission repair, they assured me that it is usually an overdrive relay, which they would check, and then replace if necessary. I would like to emphasize "check" and "if necessary" in that sentence. When I returned following the initial diagnostic -- when I got: "we're still working!" regarding problem #1 for the first time -- I was informed that the issue was in fact the overdrive relay, and they would replace it for a price beyond the diagnostic fee. I agreed, and they apparently performed the work (I haven't pulled my transmission to verify this). I returned to pick up the car, wrote PBC a check for the work, and I then immediately drove the vehicle on the freeway. Sure enough, it would not shift into overdrive (as of this writing, it still doesn't). Not once, and not at all. I tried downshifting to a lower gear, engaging the overdrive button, shifting to neutral, everything I could think of, etc. to no avail. I called PBC back regarding this issue, and spoke to the owner, who informed me he thought that was strange, as "it was" shifting into overdrive, after they did the work. I was told to bring the car back for them to look at it again, and when I did, and they'd looked again, PBC informed me that it was "something else" but that they aren't experts in transmissions, and offered me a referral and coupon to a transmission expert. It was at this point that I decided to cut my losses, and find a mechanic who was interested in fixing my car. Many of the reviews here reference the fact that "they explain it to you" as you go along, and I understand that is comforting to people. Certainly they do -- they even printed out a diagram of the service light reset and where I can find it, as they weren't going to switch it; thanks -- but on the overdrive issue, there was no explanation It was, "we replaced it, and it was working, now it doesn't, go away". Although it is impossible to prove, I very much doubt that it "was working", as it never worked for me and I drove right off of their lot and straight to the freeway, where my car was at 4800 RPMs at 60 mph, and not in overdrive. I don't doubt that they replaced the overdrive relay (but I don't really know), but since the work they did, didn't fix the issue, and especially in light of the clear oversight regarding the first issue, I do doubt that they did any significant investigation into the route of the problem. Nevertheless, they were more than happy for me to pay a premium for a diagnosis, and to take my money to replace parts on my car, with no positive results. Since this is not an advertisement, I am not going to plug for where I've ended up (and happily so), but feel free to PM me and I will let you know. PBC is zero-for-two on my vehicle, and I am out no small sum of money for nothing. I do not recommend PB Certified. read more

Very Honest Upstanding Business Very sweet couple who manage/own shop Helped me with figuring out lingering problems on my 2003 G35. One Occasion, had noise issue with belts, did not charge me, let me take the car to test it out for a week before paying. Highly Recommended! read more

This spot is amazing. I had recently bought a used car and brought it in to check the squeaky breaks. Elizabeth went above and beyond throughout my whole experience at PB Certified Auto. Not only did she check my breaks for no charge, but she also noticed an issue with my tire that my previous mechanic had overlooked. She put on the spare tire for me and wrote an extensive diagnostic report so I could understand the problem (I know very little about cars haha). Elizabeth was so helpful and responsive throughout the entire process. Could not recommend this place more! read more

They offered services $800 less than a lying Big O Tires, it is disgusting. PB Certified Auto Repair is a Mom & Pop Shop, they offered the broken part in person. PB Certified repaired my necessities for $303 bucks... Big O Tires offered $1,152 dollars..........I offer the receipts thus proof. At Big O Tires, I offered a 5 Star for my first visit, thus supporting Small Business BUT Franchised, I errored. I try to assist but as the norm, when trying to assist others {not all), they may possible disappoint me and thus offer pathetic Customer Service, as Big O Tires offered. I asked, "May I drive my car?". Response, "I do not know". How long may I drive my car? Response, "I do not know". On and on, I will never return to Big o Tires. During my last visit, w/ the $1100 offer, the Front Door Rep, thus offers services, spent 10 minutes discussing business on his personal cell phone w/ a friend. I am a Customer, you did not care. Anyway, I laud the PB Certified Auto Repair who saved me $800. read more

Dragonfly Automotive - Auto Repair Near Me - San Diego, California

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Have been taking my cars to Steve for more than 15 years. Most honest repair I have ever dealt with. They'll tell you like it is, especially when they cannot do something, they tell you upfront and the folks they refer you to are just as good. If you are a woman, Steve Auto may rub you the wrong way when it comes to communication skills but they will not take advantage of you and you cannot beat their prices and overall service. If you are new to San Diego and need an honest, reliable repair spot, you will come back again and again (not for the same thing of course) and you will quickly learn to appreciate Steve and his team for providing the best value in San Diego for repair services. Marcel Lange Carver Motor Group LLC Proud customer at Steve Auto Repair since 1995 read more

I have nothing to complain about! I showed up on a Friday morning with car problems and left Friday afternoon with a fix car! Staff was super kind and ultra helpful and was open with communication throughout the day as the repairs progress! Mentioned the 10% off from yelp as that save me $35 today! Customer service was great can't emphasize that enough! read more

Great shop! Really friendly and very willing to help out. We needed the lug nuts on our tires loosened and they were happy to help. Will start going to them from now on. read more

This family run shop is amazing!!! I've taken my volvo here several times and they have fixed it for a completely fair price and they even gave me a ride home! I would highly recommend this shop to anyone and if they can't fix your problem they will refer to someone who can read more

This is a family owned place, and it shows. I have literally never received such good customer service in my life. I brought in my BMW M3 for a repair, so they know their way around BMWs. It's rare that I go on Yelp just to review one place, but that's how good they are. Five stars! read more

Dragonfly Automotive - Auto Repair Near Me - San Diego, California

I happened upon PB Certified when my girlfriend's car broke down near her work down in PB. I don't know the area, so I went with closest place (that had solid yelp reviews). BOY DID I LUCK OUT! They did a great job and were extremely nice. I felt like a life long customer from the moment that I walked through the door. The iceing on the cake was that I had to head back up north before they were done with the car and they dropped the car off at my girlfriend's work, since she couldnt leave before they would be closed. THATS customer service! I would recommend them to ANYONE! read more

Steve and Elizabeth are the best. My car wouldn't start this morning and I live a few blocks away and I walked down and Steve had me jump in his truck drove over my car with me. We gave it a jump to test the battery even though I thought it wasn't the battery and lo and behold the car started and I was able to drive it down and they're taking care of it now. This is a small example of the level of service you get every time you bring you car in. They take care of my wife and I whenever we need and go out of there way to make everything easy. On top of all of that there prices are on par with what you would pay any where and the best part is you know that you are not getting ripped off like a lot of other places. The actions create a high level of trust that is exemplified in their work. Thank you Elizabeth and Steve, we appreciate you. read more

Best auto shop in San Diego, honest,friendly people. They fix the transmission of my jeep wrangler 08 for a great price and super fast. 100% recommended. read more

A good and trustworthy mechanic is hard to find, so look no further!! Steve and Elizabeth are fair, honest and flexible with my schedule... and they are really nice people to boot! If there is something a little outside their realm of expertise, they also provide solid references. read more