Sly is the guy! I was in a real pickle earlier this week, just got a new battery but the alternator drained it immediately and had to get it towed to get a new alternator. In a short amount of time and on short notice, he had me up and running again, car is feeling better than before. Great quality of work and he takes care of you with great, respectful prices. Thank you Sly! read more

I needed a new mechanic after moving to OC and found this shop on the AAA certified list. I called in a week prior and scheduled an appointment to get my brakes serviced. Sly was very professional and friendly during my entire visit. They gave me a good quote on my front brake pads and rotors as well as my oil change. They told me exactly what was wrong with my brakes and did not try to upsell me on anything I did not need. The lot outside has a lot of parking and is easy to access from the street. I would highly recommend this shop for anyone looking for a mechanic in OC. read more

Sly is extremely knowledgeable, tells you what does and doesn't need to be done, provides extensive details and always service with a smile, appreciate sly and his business! read more

STAY AWAY FROM THESE NON MECHANICS. YOUVE BEEN WARNED I took my 04 Dakota there, AAA recommended, place was empty 2 guys sitting in chairs waiting fir work. I should've taken the clue. They said it needed a fuel pump, they replaced it, with the wrong one, needed more days to put the right one. When I left the truck ran out if gas, because the gas gage was off, it also cranks forever til it starts. I told them the problem, they said maje an appointment and I did some time later, because I can't afford to be without my truck fir days again. I took it in, 2 hours later he called and said the seat is forward and he can't work on it. I said I'll have my worker call you to tell you, a mechanic, how to move the seat back, he started screaming " IM NOT GONNA FIX YOUR FUCKIN SEAT TO WORK ON THIS THING" Totally freaked out and lost it. I screamed back on how they can't fix shit and I'm taking my truck to a real mechanic. So I'm getting it fixed next week, I will submit him a bill, because he either put the wrong fuel pump again or doest know how to adjust it. He'll pay one way or another. Will definitely sue if he doesn't pay. THE GUY IS NUTS IF YOU GO THERE YOU'RE A FOOL. Yelp needs zero or negative stars​​​​ read more

TLDR: DO NOT trust this shop. I brought my 2013 Ford Escape to Expert Auto Care after the engine was overheating for reasons I didn't understand. They fixed the issue and it was even less than I was quoted, which was amazing. So, when the issue began happening again I took it back right away. It was thankfully fixed within the same day, however, i never got a quote before the fixes were implemented. I thought they were doing the fix for free because it was within 5 months of the first overheating issue. Imagine my surprise when I go to pick up the car and I get charged for the sensor they replaced. I was never asked or quoted anything, they just did it. That was red flag #1. I was just happy the issue was resolved and drove home. The NEXT DAY, my car started over heating again despite this "fix". I called and said I can't afford to keep towing this car to their shop and I'd like them to fix it. The owner agreed but every time I followed up said he'd "get back to me about a tow." And never did. This was over a month ago at this point. So now I'm stuck using a car I'm trying to sell instead, while my other car that i WANT to be driving is just collecting dust. Super disappointed with this shop and I don't reccommend you trust them with your car. I never write reviews like this I'm just so frustrated. read more

I rarely do any reviews however, I really felt it was important this time. I initially took my Lexus 250 to another shop (not a dealership) where they did an oil change and an inspection and they quoted me thousands in dollars for other services they recommended. I don't drive very far usually and don't put a lot of wear and tear on my car. I then took it to Expert Auto where I got a smog check and another inspection. They said none of the other recommended services were urgent and the car was in extremely good condition. Expert Auto will be my main mechanic going forward. read more

I've been bringing my car to Expert Autocare for almost 6 years now, and I've never been disappointed by the service. They're professional, friendly, honest about timeframes and prices, and at times have over-estimated prices and then come in under budget. I've had numerous oil changes here in addition to occasional substantive engine work since my car is on the older side, and they keep me safe and running smoothly. Sly makes me feel safe and respected, and explains what's going on with my car clearly and answers all my questions patiently. I can't recommend them highly enough. read more

The best experience one can have at a mechanic hands down! WOW I did not know I could be impressed by an auto related business prior to this. Honest, transparent, helpful, caring, patient, warm and friendly. Highly recommend read more

I was on my way to pick up lunch for my office when my temperature light started flashing and beeping like crazy. I popped the hood and instantly saw coolant all over my engine, the remaining coolant was draining at a significant pace. I knew if I wanted to avoid any further damage to the engine I couldn't drive further than a few hundred feet, and even that was pushing it. I was supposed to be back to work in 20 minutes and was stressed about possibly waiting for a tow truck. I noticed a lot of garages and warehouses where I broke down and decided to do a quick Google search to see if any mechanics were near by. That's how I came to find Expert Auto Care. I called and spoke to Sly, he told me to head over and he would take a look at my car right away. A 200 ft drive later and I was there. He noticed instantly that it was a cracked radiator, not surprising as I drive a 10+ year old car. He took me inside, and did a quick estimate. He even attempted to get the part same day to try to have the car mended before end of day. The supplier wasn't able to have it in until early the next morning, he assured me that as long as the part was received before noon he could have the car done. He mentioned he would also call if anything else came up during inspection when they replaced the radiator. A co-worker picked me up and I was back at my office with only a 12 minute delay. Incredible. Sly called me the next day, and the car was ready. When I arrived not only was my car running perfectly, but my AC was blasting colder than ever as Sly and his team had noticed an issue with the ac system. They replaced a hose I believe, and recharged the AC. I was appreciative, and asked how much the estimate had changed. It hadn't. They did it at time of service at no charge. He saw it and couldn't ignore it as he knew to get to the AC area again would be labor intensive. Such a kind gesture, and the type of business I feel that few people do anymore. As a Woman it's always nerve racking to goto the mechanic. I've never felt so lucky to need a car repair. Now I have a local mechanic that I completely trust and will goto for any needed repairs in the future. Sly is also a blast to talk with! Personable and easy going. This is the type of place you go and feel like family. I couldn't recommend this auto shop more. I am truly so grateful to have found Expert Auto Care. Thank you to sly and his team for getting me out of a bind and back on the road! read more

We had a bit of a traumatic experience with our manual, 19 yr old Tacoma. I really thought it had died and we were going to say goodbye to it. But Sly was so great...very prompt, thorough, communicative, and a very good mechanic. I also feel like he was honest and very fair in pricing. I would never hesitate to bring any of our vehicles to him! read more

Got the B1 service code on my Honda Fit. Sly and his team did a great job; took care of all necessary inspections of my car, changed oil, replaced filter etc. and found a nail in my tire which they patched up. It was a straightforward and worry-free process and I appreciate the great customer service. I will definitely trust them with my car again if the need arises and I am in the area. Many thanks! read more

Came in to get my serpentine belt replaced on my tundra, quoted me a good price over the phone and it fixed my squealing problem. Thank you

Sly is the best in the business. He is 5 stars for a reason. Ask him anything he will most likely know the answer and a great solution. I have used him for 7 years. read more

Opens Early and Nice Folks! Early morning And I felt like a dog. I need an oil change And a smog. I need my car And can't wait too long. Oh great. What else can go wrong. Place opens early So I came. Some dude greeted me, "What's your name?" My name is Nick Please smog my car. My registration is invalid And I need to drive far. What about oil? Can you do that too? "I can get right on it Here's a seat for you!" He got right on it through the window I could see. I got up And took a pee. About 40 minutes passed And he was done. Prices are reasonable. I scored a home run! Fast and nice, This place is cool. Thanks to Yelp, I found this jewel! I am a fan! read more

Expert Autocare - Auto Repair Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

See all

My Mom was the original owner of our family owned 1966 Mustang GT Collector Car. In 2016 the original died with over 300,000 miles on it. I had it replaced with as close to new as I could get totally rebuilt High-Perf 289 V8 with all new carb, starter, alternator, etc. A nearby Mustang specialty shop ordered the new rebuilt engine. Since then I have spent several hundred $$$ several times to locate and correct the starting issue.. Last week it stalled on the street. I called for a tow and they took it to a nearby AAA recommended shop. In just a few m minutes Expert Auto Care located and fixed the issue for a more than reasonable charge. I strongly recommend you take your vehicle to them ! read more

Sly has been maintaining our cars forover. We have routine and extensive maintenance with Mike and him. Never disappointed, never overcharged, constant reputable advice. Can't imagine using any other car maintenence service now and in the future. Best choice. read more

Sly and Mike are honest, kind, and fair people and those traits are equally reflected in the business. I get very nervous about having auto repair done as I know very little about cars. It helps that they are always willing to explain the repair details to make the customer feel reassured. The first time I went to the shop in November 2020, I needed a lot of work done. I called Saturday afternoon and made an appointment for 7am on Monday. Brakes, coolant, transmission flush, spark plugs, and oil change. Sly called me to confirm each repair and the exact cost before doing any work. It was done before noon. There was an issue with the backing plate, though, so I went back 2 days later. Even with a garage full of cars, they fixed the issue on the spot and I left within 10 minutes. Great experience. Also had a smog check done here. They warned me about some repairs I will soon need without being pushy whatsoever. I'm so grateful to have a local shop who makes auto repair so painless! read more

I always get my vehicle smog-checked here. They are honest and go out of their way to avoid ripping you off for unnecessary repairs if you fail to pass. Slye, the owner, is friendly, honest, and knowledgeable. Mike is a super nice guy and great mechanic. read more

I had a major problem with my car as i was getting off of the freeway. Requested recommendation for auto care from AAA and they recommended Expert Auto Care that was near my home. After discussing the situation with Sly he determined the engine was blown. He ordered a crate motor from Detroit and installed it, re-assembled it and fine tuned it. The vehicle is running like a top and Me and My Wife couldn't be more pleased with the professional service we received from Expert Auto Care. You can be confident when you take your vehicle for any type of repair to Expert Auto that it will be repaired in a professional manner. Sly and Mike are My New Go To Guys for my auto repair needs. We Are Blessed to have such Talented People in our area. read more

Absolutely outstanding! Highly knowledgeable, friendly, fast, more than reasonable pricing. It is a pleasure to have one's car serviced by Sly and Mike. read more

Sly has been hands down the best. Very honest and educated about his work which I truly respect and honor. He was able to fix my overheating car issues in matter of days with the best offer I could get. He even gave me a discount on-top of that and even washed my car!! Could not stress enough how much Sly & his team helped out in a timely and effective manner. Thanks again Expert Autocare! Will be back for any other car maintenance issues! read more

Sly Aldana is the most honest businessman I have ever dealt with. I wouldn't bring my car (2005 Mercedes) to anyone else. He is very knowledgeable and his prices are reasonable. He puts the customer first! Thank you, Sly! read more

I've been taking four different cars here for several years. I'm mechanically inclined, do a ton of research on repairs, and price shop. Sometimes I don't have the time or special tools to do it myself, so I prefer to drop my car off with an honest and reliable mechanic. Sly will not sell you unnecessary repairs. Whether it's a 90k mile service or a brake job, he only suggests what the manufacturer recommends or what your car actually needs at the moment. I have always been satisfied with cost and the quality of work done by Mike. I take my cars in as an informed consumer and leave knowing my cars are in the hands of honest, qualified, and competent mechanics. Most importantly, I've never had a problem with any of their work. What more can you ask for? read more

Ten stars...best of the best! Sly, owner, & Mike, ASE certified mechanic, have maintained & repaired my cars (Toyota & Infiniti) for over 25 years. They provide top notch customer service, quality workmanship, economically viable recommendations & approaches on preventive maintenance, and very fair billing. Several times, they have taken me to the auto bay & shown as well as explained to me any vehicle repair/maintenance issues so I have a much clearer understanding. They have always accommodated my requests for early morning appointments to change oil & do routine maintenance. Price estimates are offered up front, & are detailed & honest. If they find an issue while performing maintenance, they will contact you to discuss maintenance options, provide materials & labor estimates, & obtain your approval prior to proceeding. Prior to finding Expert Autocare through AAA, I had some miserable experiences w/other auto repair shops. However, since doing business w/Expert Autocare, I've never felt safer & my car always seems to run better after a visit! Thank you so much, my friends Sly & Mike, for your knowledge, honesty, integrity & trustworthiness! read more

New to the state, I needed a place to get my '01 Camry smog checked in order to get plates. This was the closest to my home with stellar Yelp reviews, so I walked right in. First, it's a little hard to find for a new-comer. Thankfully, once I caught the large "Expert Auto Care" sign, I knew where to turn. Sly was incredibly welcoming, helpful, and efficient. I didn't have my registration with me, but he was accommodating and went ahead with the smog check. His prices are posted right on the wall, which was reassuring that I was getting a fair deal. While my car was being worked on, Sly and I chatted, and he went above and beyond any customer care I'd expect from an auto shop. The best part was that he told me about the AAA DMV, a gem of a find I had no idea existed. Needless to say, I'm forever grateful to Sly for saving me countless hours wasted at the Costa Mesa DMV. I HIGHLY recommend Expert Auto Care to anyone in the area in need of auto work. read more

They'll charge you an arm and a leg for a couple of clips for my engine parts covers. Ridiculous. Just because it's a small job doesn't mean you can overcharge like that. read more

Sly is the BEST! The shop is not fancy but they quality of his work is first rate. His prices are very reasonable! I first selected Expert Auto Care since he was recommended by AAA. I thought the problem was a broken master brake cylinder and it would cost $700 to $800. It turned out the the vacuum line was disconnected. He did not charge me and could have very easily charged for a master cylinder. He is extremely honest and just tells it the way it is! He and his mechanics are ASE Certified which is a mark of excellence. Also, he does the auto maintenace and repair work for the main office of Auto Club of Southern California. We take all four of our cars to Sly and have recommended him to all our friends. read more

I'd give these guys 10 stars if I could. They are honest, helpful, very competent, and their services are reasonably priced. I came in from out state to pick up an "inherited" car, and since I planned on driving the car back to my home (1,500 miles away, and across two deserts) I needed it to be up to the task. The gentleman at Expert Autocare understood my needs, (and safety concerns) and were great to work with. If they were in MY town (Tulsa Oklahoma) I'd be looking forward to having them look after all my my mechanical needs. They re-did the A.C. system, and did a full fluids change. I'm a (long term) "motor head", and know quality service with I see it, and get it. Two THUMBS UP for Expert Autocare!! THANKS guys!!! Stan L. read more

About a year ago, I was referred to Expert Autocare by AAA for a smog check and during that visit, I observed how the owner took the time to thoroughly assist a customer with all of his vehicle's maintenance needs. I also observed that Expert Autocare has received numerous service quality recognitions. Hence, this prompted me to keep this place in mind for future service needs. I don't regret doing so. Since, I've been back for all the routine services and a few major repairs and the customer service and competency has been outstanding! Sly is very honest and patient. I have limited auto service knowledge and in the past, I usually feared going to auto shops because I knew I would be told false information about my car's service needs just so that I would pay extra. Yet, I've never felt this way with Sly. I highly recommend this place. read more

Sly has taken care of my domestic car since 2005 or so and he's always treated me well. I have never felt taken advantage of and always feel that I get my money's worth. Basically when I have a problem with my Ford the only one I call is Sly! read more

Very knowledgeable and will do what is needed in the customers best interest. He took my car in and listened to what I told him other mechanics said was wrong. He then took his time to find the issue. Someone told me it was the fly wheel which is expensive to fix. They found out it was just the starter. read more

I needed an oil change fast! Expert Autocare has great reviews on Yelp and decided to give them a try. Their hours are 730am-6pm M-F. I arrived at 440pm. I was asked what type of vehicle I drove and then was told they could not help me today but come back tomorrow. The rep said the guy who can do it is leaving in 10 minutes and could not assist me. As a new customer, I was turned off by the idea that only one guy knew how to change the oil on a Corolla. I will not be returning tomorrow. read more

The best Customer Service and trusty mechanics I've ever dealt with. I highly recommend them.

I brought in my car when it would not start at 9:00 AM with only an hour's notice. By noon they let me know the problem, explained what happened, gave me a quote, and were honest about what was truly necessary. Price was reasonable and I was able to get my car back same day. Highly recommend! read more

Thanks Sly! Yesterday we were on the freeway when we ran over what turned out to be a huge rock. Concerned and worried, we called to find a shop who was open on a Saturday that would help us diagnodse the damage. We were referred to Expert Auto Care. When we walked in Sly was very welcoming and was able to help us right away. He checked under our undercarriage and found a few bolts loose. He saw that undercarriage shield was loose, tightened it and gave us his approval that the damage was minimal and we were safe to drive. Thanks Sly for the quick check, hospitality and allaying our concerns! read more

It has been years since I have been able to find an honest mechanic, it usually was go in for LOF come out with a new transmission and spark plugs ARGH!! But Sly has brought back the faith in honest good work, along with his assistant Mike these guys get the job done!! read more

These guys are life savers! My car wouldn't start in the morning, so I had AAA help diagnose the problem and towed it here. They found I needed a new alternator, which they diagnosed and replaced in a few hours at a really good price, not including the AAA discount they give you. Highly recommended especially if you're wary of mechanics, these guys are honest and efficient and fair! read more

My experience was consistent with the other great reviews. I expected to pay a lot more than I did. I'm a lawyer, and one that deals with scams all of the time. I see how people shade truth to create a more favorable picture. Not this guy. He's compulsively honest. He told me more than I needed to know or more than I asked to know. He was very clear when explaining what he could and could not do. The only problem was that I thought he said he would call me when the car was done. But, he didn't, probably more my fault than his. It wasn't a big deal in comparison to getting my car running well again. It's a relief to find a good place near my home and work so quickly and easily. read more

I took my car here because I my check engine light turned on and it was close to where I was living. I got the referral from the AAA website. I have to admit that I was very happy with their service they were able to diagnose the problem and gave me multiple solutions for the problem. I have to admit that it was nice to be able to talk to the man that was going to fix my car and not only that when I asked the difference between the options that I had he was very straight forward with his assessment of the parts i could choose from. At the end of the day, my car was fixed and I am pretty happy about the results. I will probably, take my car there again. read more

One of the most valuable things a woman can have is a solid and honest mechanic. Sly always treats me fairly and never over charges. I've been coming to him for two years now and refer everyone I know. read more