Fantastic experience!! First, Johnny, the owner, is extremely friendly, genuine, and welcoming. It's a pleasure doing business with an actual person, instead of an automatron. Side note: his dogs, who were manning the counter, are ridiculously adorable!! The work on the car was fast and reasonably priced. He also has hourly appointments throughout the day for fast services such as oil changes and tire rotations. Very convenient and we immediately made an appointment for our other car. It's reasurring to find a trustworthy auto care business with an honest leader. read more

Absolutely the worst! They over charged me and then to make it better they left a wrench in my engine bay! DO NOT GO HERE!

There really needs to be something said about the attitude of the mechanics here. First of all, they've had my car for 2 days. I think asking for a status update is definitely a reasonable thing to do. But the response I got was grumpy and uncalled for. Instead of politely telling me they haven't received the part they needed to fix my car, they acted like I was inconvenicing them just for calling. Dude. You have MY car. If youre not sure when the part comes, that's fine. But you don't have to act like I'm a dumbass for asking. I quite frankly don't care how miserable your job is, so is mine. And everyone else's. The least I can ask for is some common decency. Especially when you've had my car for 2 days and haven't updated me. read more

We pulled in to drop off a vehicle and the owner (?) lit into us about parking in the wrong place. Our intent was to ask where to leave it when we went inside. This person, the owner, yelled his instructions over from across the small lot and there was no indication that he was in anyway associated with the business. A comment about the lack of signage was met with rage and he told us to leave. The reaction was absolutely unhinged to the point where I thought he was going to get violent and I genuinely was concerned that he was going to approach us and get physical. I should have read the reviews, I hope the rest of you do. read more

I went in for a NY Sate inspection but with an 2013 Mini there is likely to be more issues than expected. The needed work was done quickly and efficiently (even though it took a little extra time to get the parts), the mechanic was upfront and honest that I may not be able to get the work done before a 5 hour trip during a holiday weekend -- they made it happen! Yeah. Here is where I was a little disappointed -- no one bothered to check the oil and I'm thinking fluids. My previous service at Elmer's was an oil change and they put a big sticker in the windshield with next service due which was in161 miles. I had been accustomed to basic checks with any Mini service at previous places so realizing I forgot to mention it, I asked if the oil had been checked, the reply was not unless you ask for it. Small issue yes, but I'll always think of that tiny oversight unfortunately. read more

Elmer's Brighton Garage - Next service due sticker - Tires Near Me - Rochester, New York

I bought my first car a few weeks ago and took it to Elmer's, where my family often brings our cars. They gave me an honest assessment of the car before I bought it which helped inform my decision. I had them replace my brakes and some suspension parts (control arms/sway bars). The repair was only slightly more expensive than other options, but very well done. They are diligent about repairs and have corrected any mistakes free of charge for me. I can't recommend them enough--they know what they're doing and won't gave you bad advice. read more

The owner seems to have a really thin skin for a business owner. I got snow tires put on because my regular place couldn't fit me. When I saw they charged me 70 dollars more than my regular place and complained, he got upset when I pushed back. He insisted he knew the labor rates of the place I normally go to and said he doesn't want to deal with "people like me." When I came back to prove the price difference he refused to see it. I fully expected to pay more as prices have gone up but not this much. There was some other issues as well that I won't get into. read more

Elmer's Brighton Garage - Tires Near Me - Rochester, New York

Highly recommend! I was able to get same day turn around. He let me know exactly what was a safety issue (fix now), what was recommended (but not required), and what could wait. I am always worried about getting taken advantage of as someone who knows nothing about cars, but they fixed my problem with no extra hassle. Thanks, guys! read more

Elmer's is exactly the kind of independent auto service center you hope to find. The owner, Johnny is honest, straight forward, fair, and knowledgeable. When you talk to him you feel like you are talking to your best friend who has been working on cars his entire life. Then, the service is top notch, fast, and always thorough. The prices are always reasonable. What else could you hope for? read more

Review not recommended below is actually true. Would like to repost in order for the review to be known that the customers at this location are overpaying by great amounts. I am quite frustrated with the level of service I received at Elmer's Garage. The repairs that I needed were simple, and would be considered by most to be routine maintenance. Despite the condition of the car outside of these repairs, I requested to have the front rotors and brake pads replaced in addition to a standard oil change. When the mechanic called me to discuss the issue, he spoke to me as if he was a teacher going over a bad report card with a delinquent student. The level of disrespect was uncalled for, especially considering the amount he expected me to pay for this standard work. He quoted $450 for pads, rotors and an oil change. Due to a lack of time, I motioned to go ahead with the work knowing I was over paying by at least $100. He also quoted me $283 for a tail light that I was able to purchase - NEW - online for $67.00. After picking up my car, I contacted several local shops to get an alternate quote the next day, and was quoted $340 by South Ave Auto. Perhaps Elmer's uses better parts, I thought, although that cannot be the case as they were trying to convince me to replace the REAR brakes and rotors which they had already fixed less than two years ago (March 2014). South Ave Auto told me that they have a 2 year warranty on brakes and rotors so if I had gone to them in the first place - it would be on the house. Regardless of pricing, when I went to pick up the car, the mechanic had charged an additional for $30 for a cabin filter that I had NOT authorized. When I disputed this, explaining that I did not ask for this change to be made the clerk at the desk got defensive and responded with: "Well why would he write that you wanted this done if you said no?" Not sure, but my best guess is to charge me more. I used to have a friend that worked for Elmer's and while he was employed there they always took fine care of me. Now that he's gone, it's rip off time. I will never go back to this shop, and any and every time I have an opportunity to let someone know how terrible they are I will certainly do so. People like those at Elmer's only make life more difficult for hard working people who put in work to make ends meet. Shame. Report review read more

Love this place. They run a great business. Very honest and very reasonable. John the owner is a great guy. Highly recommended!!

These guys are the best. They saved my ass... and my car. John, Jon, and crew are really honest and trustworthy. I had major repairs back to back and very pleased at the top-notch service from this garage. read more

Johnny is the owner and he is just awesome. He always has a great attitude and is a pleasure to work with. He brings that positive energy to his team at Elmer's. We have been going to Elmer's for years, ever since the organization my Dad works for began using them to service their fleet of vans. Johnny and the guys at Elmer's are really the best. I am always impressed with them. They are so honest and trustworthy. Another customer left her wallet with cash in the car when she dropped it off and she wasn't even worried when she realized what happened because she was so confident in their honorable character. Chris at the front desk is great and gets people in and out quickly. They know my car and always make sure it's driving well and safely. I have an 11-year-old Honda Civic, which drives great (thanks in part to Elmer's!). But like any 11-year-old car, it hasn't been 100% free of problems. With Johnny and the team at Elmer's they will tell you when they don't know the answer to a problem. They don't just rack up hours of work on the car trying to figure out a weird issue, and will make recommendations on where to take it for a second opinion, if needed. The guys at Elmer's are up front about the wear and tear in the vehicle, letting you know in advance when to expect to need new spark plugs, tires, etc. and giving you choices whenever possible. They also give me the choice to drop it off or wait for service, and almost always fit me in for servicing in the next day or two from when I call. They are open before work and until 5/5:30, which is convenient for drop-off and pick-up. Once when I had trouble on the road coming home from school, I called Johnny and he said I could drive it straight to Elmer's. They fixed the issue in like 15 minutes and I was back home enjoying my break. My whole family takes their cars to Elmer's and we wouldn't go anywhere else. Look no further for a trustworthy and enjoyable place to take your car. read more

I will never go anywhere else for any kind of car service. The staff in beyond friendly and goes above and beyond every time. They are by far the most affordable as well. They will never over charge and will make sure they never leave anything less than perfect. Johnny is great about explaining everything in a way that makes sense without making you feel like you know nothing about cars. He even offered to drive me to work after I dropped off my car rather than having to call an Uber. A+++ all around. read more

Just recently moved to Rochester I got a flat tire and they were able to help me right away! I had the tow truck drop my car off there and they got it done the next day! Very reasonably priced and very friendly guy! I will keep taking my car there in future read more

This garage is among the best I've ever patronized. They are ethical, organized, and, most of all, competent. My most recent experience was the repair of a "Check Engine Light". They spent 3.5 hours chasing down the root cause of the CEL and were able to explain a related engine squeal. They charged me for one hour of diagnostic labor. It turned out to be a problem covered by a manufacturer's extended warranty, so they printed out the service bulletin for my education and recommended that I take it to the dealer for a no-cost repair. I did authorize the replacement of emissions control sensor which had failed and was replaced during the diagnostics but would not be covered by the extended warranty. They are not the cheapest hourly labor rate, but I think in the long run I save money because they treat their customers the way they want to be treated. My girlfriend has been a customer of theirs longer than I and they do a great job explaining car problems in a way that non-mechanically inclined people can understand. One practice I particularly like: When they need authorization to make a repair, the mechanics call you to review what they've found, no intermediary service advisor to distort the message. Amenities: Clean waiting room with a TV. John's dog wanders out to say hello to customers. After hours drop off. They accept my MasterCard (and I suppose other major credit cards). read more

My tire picked up a nail last fall. I got it pulled and plugged at my dealership. Several weeks ago it started to leak air again. It got to the point I had to put air in twice a day. I work close to Elmer's and saw some good review about them on Yelp. I called and was told if I could drop my car off that day or the next they could fit me in. I dropped it off the next day around 10 am and got a text it was done around 1 pm. The employees were extremely nice and the price was much less than I expected. Over all I would give them a 10. I all ready have a friend that is going to use them for her tire issue. I am going to try them out for my next oil change and service appointment. The customer service was great and they plugged the leak from the inside so I am sure it will last until I need new tires in another come years. read more

Scheduling, service and communication was great. I had an inspection done here, which isn't anything complicated, but I was tight on time and having trouble getting an appointment in the neighborhood and Pete helped me get an appointment in the window of time I needed. read more

My old repair shop suddenly had to close and I chose Elmer's due to the good reviews found during a google search, hearing good things from knowledgeable people, and it's proximity to where I live. They are HONEST and do quality work! My steering column was recently locked... they figured out it was my key causing it and told me to just get a new one made of the original. John did not charge me at all!! Good customer service! I will continue to go here and recommend to others as well! read more

I found them on Yelp. They had great rating so I figured I'd give them a shot. I'm glad I did. I had a misfire in one of my cylinders and they were able to take a look the day I called them. The guy I talked to...Jon I believe, was straight with me. Didn't use overly difficult language to make his ability seem more important. He just told me what was up in a way I could understand. They got things done for me and it was a reasonable price. I will go back to them again. read more

I'm new to the area and needed some help/advice about snow tires. All the employees are very kind and willing to help! They gave me a great deal and took great care of me and my car! I especially liked that they did not try to sell me extras or bill me for unnecessary parts/services. Nice environment and felt comfortable. Oh, and there's free WiFi! :) great gang and I will definitely continue taking my business there! read more

These guys are some of the most straight up honest mechanics I've ever worked with. When was the last time you brought your car in for a small rattle, they fix it, and not charge you? They everything they have done has been high quality and all of their recommendations have been well thought out and reasonable. Their goal seems to be that you don't return, and that's a large part of the reason I go back. read more

I am quite frustrated with the level of service I received at Elmer's Garage. The repairs that I needed were simple, and would be considered by most to be routine maintenance. Despite the condition of the car outside of these repairs, I requested to have the front rotors and brake pads replaced in addition to a standard oil change. When the mechanic called me to discuss the issue, he spoke to me as if he was a teacher going over a bad report card with a delinquent student. The level of disrespect was uncalled for, especially considering the amount he expected me to pay for this standard work. He quoted $450 for pads, rotors and an oil change. Due to a lack of time, I motioned to go ahead with the work knowing I was over paying by at least $100. He also quoted me $283 for a tail light that I was able to purchase - NEW - online for $67.00. After picking up my car, I contacted several local shops to get an alternate quote the next day, and was quoted $340 by South Ave Auto. Perhaps Elmer's uses better parts, I thought, although that cannot be the case as they were trying to convince me to replace the REAR brakes and rotors which they had already fixed less than two years ago (March 2014). South Ave Auto told me that they have a 2 year warranty on brakes and rotors so if I had gone to them in the first place - it would be on the house. Regardless of pricing, when I went to pick up the car, the mechanic had charged an additional for $30 for a cabin filter that I had NOT authorized. When I disputed this, explaining that I did not ask for this change to be made the clerk at the desk got defensive and responded with: "Well why would he write that you wanted this done if you said no?" Not sure, but my best guess is to charge me more. I used to have a friend that worked for Elmer's and while he was employed there they always took fine care of me. Now that he's gone, it's rip off time. I will never go back to this shop, and any and every time I have an opportunity to let someone know how terrible they are I will certainly do so. People like those at Elmer's only make life more difficult for hard working people who put in work to make ends meet. Shame. read more

I've been taking my cars (and utility trailer after I bought it) to Elmer's for service and inspections since soon after I moved to Rochester in 2004. They have never failed to fix something the first time, never done anything that didn't need to be done, never overcharged me for anything. They even resisted my attempts to waste money fixing the air conditioning in an old Focus. They're always friendly, always fit me in quickly, and explain everything so I can understand it--and Gracie is delightful. I have only one problem with Elmer's, but it's not serious enough to subtract a star. They're really not set up for customers who live alone without a network of relatives or friends. When a vehicle has to be left for a day or more, they have no reliable provision for getting the customer to and from home. Getting a ride home isn't usually a problem, because you're right there, but getting back from home to pick up the vehicle ALWAYS is a problem. They just have no procedure in place for dealing with it, and as soon as they've gotten you home they forget that you'll need to get back to their shop somehow. If Rochester had normal taxis or car services, like NYC, I'd just call a car service, but here taxis can't deal with anything but trips to the airport and car services have only prom limos. That leaves the bus, which unfortunately for me doesn't stop much nearer my house than Elmer's is; I tried it once and never will again. I'm way too old and arthritic to walk the mile and a half from home to Elmer's, so when they call to say the car's ready, I have to remind them every time that I need a ride. They provide it, but they always seem surprised, like it's a big inconvenience they're not really prepared to handle and no other customer has ever asked for. Maybe nobody else in Rochester is alone. Actually, I think this IS serious enough to deduct a star, because it's a strong motivation, when I need something more than just an inspection or oil change, something that might take longer than I'm able to sit in a waiting room (ie, something they could actually make a profit doing), to take my car instead to a dealer or other garage that has regular transportation for customers who need it (which means that I must not be the only one after all). I can always add that star back if they solve this problem. read more

Very friendly people who do a great and honest job. Their prices are also a lot lower than some other places I went to. Love these guys.

For over a decade we've relied on Elmer's Brighton Garage for all our automotive repair and maintenance needs. What we appreciate most is their dedication to our car's maintenance and safety. This week's experience was typical in how they operate. We were leaving town when suddenly our van's front end unexpectedly started to vibrate. We drove immediately over to Elmer's and Johnny dropped everything to look. He noticed that we had somehow acquired quite a bit of tar on one tire. He then generously scrapped the tar off the tire and assured us that we were good to go. That's customer service! read more

Awesome! John (owner) goes out of his way to do the right thing. Even if that involves recommending to not take your money or have work done. I can't speak to upfront and honest business approach. He does what is in the best interest of his customers. read more

Elmer's Garage is the real MVP! My rear windshield was damaged, I called another company for glass replacement and they couldn't replace the glass because they were certain they would break the wiper arm and several other parts. I called many local dealerships and all of them said they would cut the arm off and I would have to purchase all new parts! This would have run me anywhere from $300-500! Completely insane to me because they were all functioning parts. Anyways...I called Elmer's they graciously listened to my dilemma, made me an appointment for the next day and were able to have the parts all carefully removed and ready for me to pick up within 3 hours and they did the work for FREE! Wahhhhattt?! I'm sure that it isn't standard practice for them to just do things for free, but it was extremely unexpected and gracious of them to be so helpful! I will not only reinvest that money they saved me into their business I will also be certain to let anyone I know, looking for work to get done, to give Elmer's a call! Thanks again guys, you're the real MVP! read more

This happened 3 years ago. I took my car in for a check engine light, knowing the catalytic converter on my old car could have failed. They tried to defraud me! Elmer's tried to tell me that my car had a pre-cat attached to the exhaust manifold that needed replacing. I know a lot about my car and it does not have a pre-cat, so I told them they must have their work orders mixed up, that can't be my car. They went into great detail saying how my car was a "california emissions model" so it did have this pre-cat, (false, I looked into this later, the california models didn't have a pre-cat either, and mine is a federal emissions anyway) how they called all over town but only the dealer had this part (impossible, since the part doesn't exist). They wanted to charge me $1,400 to replace this fictitious part. I drove a few miles farther to my old mechanic, Vesa's and they promptly replaced my (only) cat for $280. They were stunned when I told them the story. read more

Very friendly staff. Brought my car in without an appointment, got an oil change, inspection, and 2 new tires and was out of there within 3 hours. Nothing but good things to say about this place based on my visit. read more

John and the rest of the workers have always been wonderful. The service is great and the price cannot be beat. They have a great vehicle drop off service the night before that allows one to get their car in almost any day of the week. I cannot possibly overstate how grateful I am that I found Elmer's. I recommend them to everybody. read more

I have been going to Elmer's about 1 year. I tried them based on a friend's recommendation after my frustration with Marsh road dealers that always found things wrong but in seeking out a second opinion were not. Elmer's does the work that is required and nothing more. They don't call you with add on's which I appreciate. I hope they don't change! read more

I had my truck towed to Elmer's because the left front brake hose developed a leak. I told them what the problem was and asked to have it fixed. They called me a couple hours later and told me it would cost $2400.00 to fix. They gave me a list of things they wanted to fix. I sent a tow truck to pick it up and they charged me $48.00 for the "work" they did. They could have fixed it in less time than they spent looking for things to fix. I fixed it myself this morning in less than half an hour. It cost me $24.99 for the part. read more

Asked for a quote on fixing a rear wiper (easy to access, I took off the back panel to check it myself) and they asked for 1.5 hours of labor costs before even giving me a quote. Also they refused to give my inspection sticker without replacing the wipers even though this is a pain because I have wiper blade replacements at home. I am considering never going back, even though I have been a loyal customer for about 7 years. read more