1. ExperTec Automotive

    1. ExperTec Automotive

    0

    Costa Mesa, CA

    ExperTec Automotive

    4.6 (422 reviews)
    Closed 7:30 am - 6:00 pm
    Updated over 3 months ago

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      Services - ExperTec Automotive

      Auto brake repair

      Auto engine repair

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      The state of the lugnut after ExperTec's Failed Removal.

      Neither Expert, Nor Tec. On November3,2025, I brought my 2010 Toyota Prius to ExperTec Automotive to remove a spinning lug nut on the driver's front wheel. After spending approximately four hours on the job, the shop was unable to remove the lug nut. They charged me $222.18 for labor despite the fact that the issue was not resolved. The invoice clearly states: "One lug is spinning on the driver front. Spent 4 hours on it trying to remove it. Customer was informed that he could pay additional labor to keep at it, or pay for time already and pick it up." When I asked what it would take for completion the sales person said it could be $600-$800 more. After retrieving my vehicle, I was forced to solve the issue myself. Following advice to use cobalt drill bits, I was able to remove the lug nut completely in under 20 minutes. This proves that the shop's failure and exorbitant time spent was due to improper tooling and technique, not the inherent difficulty of the job. The mechanic, a nice young man named Scott, acknowledged to me that his bits were dull and that new cobalt bits would have made the job successful. I felt for him and gave him the cobalt drill bits I bought wishing him future success. Details of Interaction with Management: After completing the repair myself, I returned to ExperTec to request a refund. The front‑office staff initially attempted to process one but their POS system failed. I then spoke with GaryMcMann, the General Manager. Mr.McMann stated that he had to pay his mechanic for the three hours worked and that "the progress [his mechanic] made was what made it possible for you to drill through in 19minutes." He went on further to say that they "had to get my car off their rack, it was taking too much time." I disagreed with that assertion -- their work did not help me. The lug nut issue was completely unresolved when I began. My own work and tooling, not theirs, achieved the result. Mr.McMann offered a 50% refund ($111.09) as a compromise. I declined, as I believe paying any amount for an uncompleted and improperly executed repair is unjust. Basis of Complaint I was charged for non‑performance -- the service I paid for (removal of the lug nut) was not completed. ExperTec failed to use appropriate tools or techniques and the mechanic admitted their drill bits were too dull. No value was provided; I had to research the problem, purchase the correct tools (cobalt drill bits), spend my own time, and complete the job myself. The manager's justification ("I have to pay my mechanic") is not a valid reason to bill the customer for a failed attempt. No written disclosure or estimate was provided stating that I would be charged full labor for an unsuccessful repair attempt. Desired Resolution I am requesting a full refund of $222.18 for non‑performance of work. Alternatively, I request that the BAR review this shop's billing and repair practices to ensure compliance with California's standards of competent workmanship and fair dealing.

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      Photo of Flor D.
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      3 years ago

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      2 years ago

      Business owner information

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      Alexander R.

      Helpful 1
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      Photo of Nick H.
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      6 years ago

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      4 years ago

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      Photo of Dan B.
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      2 years ago

      Don't hesitate to contact ExperTec Automotive. Excellent customer service, quality work, on time, the best communication. Great company.

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      Photo of Drew V.
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      2 years ago

      Hardworking and honest. Friendly too! They even have a shuttle so you aren't without a car

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      Photo of Jon R.
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      3 years ago

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      4 years ago

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      2 years ago

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      4 years ago

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      2 years ago

      Honest, talented and super friendly service. Roger and Gary are at the top of their game. I wish they had a location in Tucson.

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      3 years ago

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      5 years ago

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      4 years ago

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      4 years ago

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      Photo of Scott S.
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      3 years ago

      Excellent service and quality. Have been going here for years. Super reliable, honest and quality work. Free rides too!

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      5 years ago

      Helpful 1
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      Photo of Brian B.
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      4 years ago

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      3 years ago

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      3 years ago

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      4 years ago

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      Photo of Maeha P.
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      2 years ago

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      4 years ago

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      4 years ago

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      Photo of Matthew M.

      Matthew M.

      Helpful 3
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      Photo of John P.
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      3 years ago

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      3 years ago

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      Photo of HB W.
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      4 years ago

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      4 years ago

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      Photo of Lisa K.
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      5 years ago

      Helpful 1
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      Photo of Ben Y.
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      3 years ago

      Friendly, quick service with reasonable prices. Pretty good about honoring promos mailed or listed on their website.

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      4 years ago

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      4 years ago

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      3 years ago

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      Photo of Alexander R.

      Alexander R.

      Helpful 1
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      2 years ago

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      2 years ago

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      3 years ago

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      4 years ago

      Customer service was great. Josh took care of my car like it was his own. The shuttle service was perfect.

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      6 years ago

      Helpful 5
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      Page 2 of 11

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      Review Highlights - ExperTec Automotive

      Gary is the man, and will take care of you, regardless of what you need and he won't sell you something you don't need.

      Mentioned in 80 reviews

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      ExperTec Automotive - autorepair - Updated September 2026

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