I took my jeep in that needed some work, and Alex was super explanatory, honest, and experienced. I would definitely recommend this place for their next vehicle maintanance...my customer service experience was awesome. read more

Needed my blinker fixed in a hurry today. They were very quick and prompt with their service. I highly recommend them. They were very courteous and well priced. read more

Amazing place! Great service, super friendly staff. I was in and out in 15 minutes for my smog test! They definitely getting added to the rolodex! read more

I took my old car in that hadn't had any work done on it in a couple of years. They were very reasonable and helpful. Checked it over, didn't suggest a lot of work that i didn't need, and kept the bill under $100 including the smog check. read more

Parking was a bit of a challenge pulling up but otherwise friendly staff, professional and quick service! My oil change was done in 30 m

Fast, friendly service. Excellent results. I would recommend these folks highly. They made my Honda Accord look like new again after a rear end collision. read more

This place is awesome! I have taken my car in here a few times now. All the mechanics are friendly, accommodating and honest! Peter, Marcelo and Alex are all helpful and don't sell people things they don't need. I don't know much about cars and they explain details to me so I can understand and give recommendations on things that I might need in the future without overcharging or pressuring. Seriously the best place I have gone to in San Diego! read more

My 17 year old daughter was on a trip to Encinitas this past week when our Chevy Tahoe had some issues. After roadside assistance came out to replace the battery, they indicated more work was probably necessary to safely drive the car back to Northern CA. I called a few places and was fortunate enough to speak with Carlos at Encinitas Auto! He was extremely helpful and accommodating. He was quick to answer questions, give me an estimate and complete the work in a timely manner. If I was a local resident, I would definitely take all my cars to Encinitas Auto!!! read more

DO NOT GO HERE FOR SMOG ISSUES. they have no clue and will troubleshoot the issue at your expense!! i understand the need to generate income but a more honest assessment would have been telling me the issue could be one of many different things but they're gonna fix this one thing and charge me twice as much as parts and labor to find out if they were right!! read more

When my last mechanic moved much further north into Vista, I looked around for a new trustworthy and honest mechanic in the Encinitas area. I was recommended to talk to Alex at Encinitas Automotive. They work fast and they don't try to ding me for "extra repairs" like I've had other shops try to do. I would recommend them, and I have done so for a few friends. read more

2000 Jeep would not start. Replaced battery, still wouldn't start. Car moved a little when being hooked to tow truck. Driver decided to try to start it and it started. Took it to Encinitas Automotive to find out problem. They checked everything, but could not find actual specific problem. Identified possibilities to pay attention to that would help him be certain of problem if it continued. So honest. Will not fix/replace something unless sure it is the problem. Thank you! read more

Great and honest workers here. They could have fixed my transmission for tons of money, but said it would be covered by warranty at the dealership, and I should do that instead. If I ever breakdown in Encinitas again, they are who I'd go to. read more

I had a wonderful experience here! There was no sales tactics or beating around the bush. They checked out my car, found the problem right away, ordered the part, and fixed it all in the same day. When I asked for it to be done by a certain time, they did it. They forgot to add my oil change onto my total bill so instead of trying to charge me for it after the fact, they gave it to me for free. This is where I will be going from now on for everything I need done to my car. read more

Encinitas Auto was a lifesaver. My alternator died late on a Thurs. night (in the middle of traffic in a turn lane) and per AAA's recommendation, the car was towed to Encinitas Auto. I received a call first thing the next morning, the situation was assessed, and the alternator replaced. They also made some suggestions for other things that needed repaired; such as, new brake pads and a much needed oil change. They had my car back to me by 12:30 that day in time for me to pick up the car and make my flight for the weekend. Reliable, professional and reasonable priced. Highly recommend them. read more

I really wanted to give this company a good review but am disappointed to only be able to give it 3 stars. When I first brought my car in the staff was excellent, especially Alex who was super friendly and seemed incredibly honest. I was told that they'd look my car over and give me a call that day to give tell me what they thought was wrong; they did and we seemed to be off to a great start, I was glad to finally find a repair shop that could be trusted. They told me they weren't exactly sure what was wrong with it but had an idea and "worst case scenario it will be $2100". I said to go ahead with the work. They finished the car when they said they would, which was great, but then told me that it was going to be over $2350! They did not call at any point during the week that this was going to be the case, they just expected me to throw down an extra $270 at the end. When I hear "worst case scenario" I really expect them to mean it's going to be that price at the very most, and if something comes up I would at least like them to contact me first! I did try to talk them down and we got $30 out of them but when you're paying that much, $30 doesn't make much difference. With that said the work was done well and on time but I walked away not being able to look them in the eye and thank them with sincerity as I felt taken advantage of in the situation. read more

I've been looking for a great "Family" mechanic like the one our family had growing up. Someone you could trust and rely on making the repairs at the right time to keep your car on the road. Thanks to yelp I found one. Alex was wonderful and a straight shooter. No nonsense. Goodbye dealership! read more

Women beware. The simple repair snowballed into hundreds and now I"m in for over $800 and it's still not right! Alex is condescending to women and deceptive in answers to questions. I've had it in there 6 times. I am taking further action because they show a good rating, but the truth is they want you to be satisfied but it WILL COST YOU, not them. They add another cost each time I leave it to be "fixed to my satisfaction". My experience has been frustration, anger, stress and terrible inconvenience. read more

I took my car in to replace the A/C and Alex was very helpful in giving me all of my options, even if it would mean him not making as much money. The work was done quickly and the price was reasonable. I even got a AAA discount! I will definitely return to Alex when my car needs other work. read more

I'll start by saying they do good work. The problem is their pricing - this place is very expensive. On top of that, I am concerned that they inflated the cost of labor to cover the discount I was due to my AAA membership. The cost for labor quoted in the estimate was $285. When I called and mentioned my AAA membership - the cost of labor suddenly rose to $335. No extra work was performed to my knowledge. Buyer beware with these guys. read more

Peter and the crew at Encinitas Automotive are the best! I have brought our cars here for several years and they are honest, trustworthy and super knowledgable when it comes to auto repairs. I wouldn't go anywhere else to get our cars repaired. read more

I should have written this sooner...I've been using Encinitas Automotive for a number of years, and for all of our family cars. As a founding board member of the San Diego Automotive Museum, I know a bit about cars...and have restored a number of them. This is a top shop and I completely trust them. We've had a myriad of issues that come with owning cars a number of years and in each case, the diagnosis was correct, timing for repair was right on, and the cost and hoped for outcomes were discussed and agreed upon prior to any work being done. They are an 'old school' shop with all the new technical toys and knowledge. As a woman, I can discuss my ideas about diagnosis and outcomes and have never felt that I am talked down to, but a member of the team. We've had transmission work completed, coils, engine, bearings, etc. All work was exceptional, and when I questioned one item, it was immediately taken care of. I can recommend them wholeheartedly, and I had used Ford for over 30 years prior to finding this shop! Support local business! read more

TERRIFIC experience today with a smog check. They were right on time (even though I was a bit early) and took my car right in and it was completed in less than 20 min. Great discount with AAA too...in fact that's who referred me. I'm going back here every time...much more professional, and frankly, more intelligent, than the several places I called to comparison shop. Nobody else was any less expensive either! read more

Took my car there when I was having a problem with it overheating. They stayed within the quote and kept me well informed along the way. They told me what was wrong, why it was causing the problem and why they need to do what they did. They were very knowledgeable and seemed very genuine. When I picked up my car they showed me the broken parts and why they needed to be replaced. They called to check in after and make sure it was running fine. read more

Alex and his team work quickly and will take good care of your car. Very reasonable, trustworthy and you will not get any unnecessary repairs. read more

Just stopped by to get my smog check on a car I just bought and the gentleman there was nice and very helpful. I didnt realize I had the I had the paper already and the previouse owner had already smogged the car. He pointed it out, was very honest and didnt try to get me to do another one. People there were very nice and helpful. I greatly appreciated it. read more

Without a doubt, this is an honest and well run shop. I was on my way up North and ran into what could have been major engine issues on the highway. I was fortunate enough to have my car towed here and Alex was able to get me back on the road with in the hour. I would have full confidence taking my car here and have piece of mind knowing they will get the job done right and not over charge. Thank you again Alex!!! read more

Been going to Alex and Peter for 10 years. Awesome service, always under budget, and great people. ENC automotive every time!

I took a car I was considering purchasing to Peter for his professional opinion on the mechanical condition. He and his mechanics inspected the engine and put the car on the lift and inspected the under side. They were very thorough in their review and found the car to be in excellent condition. I ended up purchasing the vehicle and haven't had any problems. I highly recommend Encinitas Automotive. read more

I have been going to Encinitas Automotive for several years. They are honest and trustworthy and do great work.

10/10 - very professional , straight forward and honest to deal with . A rare find in today's auto industry . Alex and Peter were great to deal with and can't recommend highly enough . read more

Marcello was quick and efficient...I was in and out within 20 mins. A very pleasant experience.

Wow ! ! Where to begin. I honestly was so apprehensive about going anywhere and being "ripped off" like so many other times in my life, as a woman and no knowledge of auto repair work AND even calling every friend for advise -- No one could recommend anyone, except for my boss said to " YELP " As he is from Boston and only goes on yelp to find any service. I have never before... BUT will from now on. Not only am I a single very hard working mom but have had nothing but being "taken" all my life because of it. So now to make a long story short-- I first called and spoke with Alex... who was so nice and accommodating and got me right in. Then I got nothing but the kindest service ever expected once I arrived. I met the owner and all the guys and could not ask for a better feeling because I was so stressed out because of the problems with my SUV not being able to pass smog and all the money it was costing me all the other places I went to who "could not help me" except for WAY TOO MUCH $ . Alex was nothing but the most personable and kind man in any situation... let alone this one. I honestly had a hard time even believing all the wonderful comments on here( YELP) before I went.......... but now understand AND then some. Thank you so much for all you did (even cleaned my windshield) I would say " I can't wait to come back- but that would be pushing it. In all honesty though if and when I need any service for my car... it will be there with you guys!!! I will also be bringing in a "thank you" gift for you all soon! God bless you AND THANK YOU. I do believe it was the power of prayer. (: Sincerely, Elizabeth Ott Nanny and doggy-RESCUE daycare owner. read more

Marcelo is the one who helped me withy car very nice man and he helped me get my oil into my car and he helped me with rotating my wheels and other things as well to make my car safe read more

Very easy to work with. I spoke with Marcelo yesterday and dropped my car off today ... squeaking from brakes. I suspected pads and maybe a rotor cut given the mileage. Peter called back with an estimate ... gave them the go ahead and had my car back this afternoon. Very pleased, nice group of guys. read more

Took my car in today, and the job was finished under estimate same day. Alex was straightforward, and could've charged me for unnecessary parts, but didn't. My AAA discount was a real plus as well. Would definitely recommend this shop for any make and model in north county. Two big thumbs up! read more

I took two separate land cruisers in, one for brakes and then one for mis-firing issue. They did a fantastic job on the brakes for the 1998. On the mis-firing problem they checked everything and boiled it down to the Electronic Control Unit. The cost for the unit was around $1200 and they were very honest in saying that they had no way for certain to ensure this was the problem, but would do the work. They went as far as to recommend going to the dealer just to be safe. This is an amazing shop, very honest and super knowledgeable. I will be taking all other cars back when they need service. read more

Awesome! I called for an appointment for a minor repair, and they gave me a time to come in a couple of hours later. They immediately and effectively attended to the repair. I will certainly return to them in the future to care for my Subaru. What a great experience! read more

I've dealt with many auto repair businesses and sadly am always skeptical, especially when dealing with them the first time. Initially I came in for a AAA checkup. While there I decided to get information on a few old problems, but didn't know if I wanted to spend the money as they were annoyances, one being air conditioner failure that I'd put up with for 4-5 years. The estimated cost of $1500 seemed prohibitive--and another annoying god awful unbearable nose from the vents. Peter explained what they'd do to resolve the issues. Because I'd had estimates from prior years , I knew I'd be out of a couple thousands dollars,but I couldn't bear it any longer. I dropped my car off and within three hours, Peter call to say my car was ready. I really couldn't believe it! When he told me the cost, about 25% of what I anticipated, I was thoroughly shocked. I read another comment and it said "trustworthy." Couldn't have saidit better!! I've dealt with AAA repair shops in the past and generally always felt somewhat comfortable because AAA makes an effort to have the best mechanics. Yes, Peter and his crew are trustworthy, up-front and the best; No misinformation or ambiguity. If you want knowledgable repair and want to feel comfortable that your wheels are in good hands, this is definitely the place! Thanks Peter. You guys more than made my day, but my year. I'll be back! Chaz read more

WE had been taking our cars (VW van, honda civic, toyota corrolla, subaru legacy) to Alex and Peter for at least five years, they were friendly and seemed honest. In the spring of 2010, after a drive to Arizona, the engine of our 2002 subaru was about to die.Alex convinced us that putting a remanufactured engine in would be the way to go. The cost would be roughly $5500, I was opposed to this idea, especially since the car had 140,000 miles on it, but the spouse believed it would be like having a new car once the engine was replaced, and Alex convinced us this was the thing to do. He also told the spouse the engine would come with a $50,000 mile warranty. We were without the car for at least a month, oh the wrong engine was mailed to him, they were busy, etc., finally five weeks later we got the old/new engine subaru back. I told Alex it smelled and had a leak "Oh that's the transmission, subaru's have leaks, no big deal, just the fluid leaking out on the exhaust pipe, that's the reason for the smell", In July after having the car sit for a month, I went to drive it to Colorado, something wasn't right, I took it in, the younger mechanic said some part had come loose, so I waited two days and that part was shipped from the subaru place and it was fixed and I wasn't charged. I drove the car to Colorado ,Montana and back that fall, changing the oil every 3,000 miles. In April of last year the spouse drove the car to Chico and back, we had the oil changed before he left. Four weeks later I was driving on the freeway and the car just died, it was towed to Alex, the first thing he said was "I told you subaru's were shitty cars"........he said I hadn't changed the oil and the engine blew because of that. I told him I had changed the oil and had the paperwork. He said the engine was only guaranteed for 12,000 miles or a year whatever came first. The car died on the 26th of May, the exact day a year before that we picked up the car and paid for it. I told him there was no way we would have put $5500 into the car for a guarantee of 12,000 miles. Well basically it was too bad and that's the way it was. A few days later we called and Peter said to come in and see them, they had an offer to make us. The offer was that we were such good (as in suckers) customers that he would tell our insurance company that we ran over something in the road that caused a hole in the engine, that caused the oil to leak out, causing the engine to die. I told him that was fraud, he said "Oh Cmon that's why you pay your insurance. I might add that my insurance is AAA and he is AAA approved. I also said Alex, I can't believe you want us to do that, your wife is a lawyer" . I asked him for the paperwork on the engine, he said he would ask Peter. I waited a few days, asking again for it,no luck, he told me he had someone who might buy our car, I called again, no paperwork, no buyer, this went on for weeks. Finally I just went and got the car. We sold it for $1,000, the mechanic who worked on it for the new owner said there was no way , it was a remanufactured engine. We sent a certified letter to Alex asking for the paperwork, that was three months ago, still no response. I reported him to AAA. I am now taking him to small claims court. I have been without a car for 10 months because I listened to him and had a POS engine put in for the price of what I could have gotten a used car for . Spread the word, don't use this guy, he is a smooth talker who seems friendly and honest, I will let you know how things work out in court read more

Excellent! Alex and his staff were extremely professional, helpful, and accommodated my time. My Honda needed a scheduled service and Yelp reviews help me find this business. My car was serviced as promised, faster than I even expected. They were courteous, explained everything to me and had me out the door early. read more