Rickie was great and the reviews on this place are right!! Excellent and honest service. I mean, it's tough finding a mechanic to trust & these guys are it. My searching is over & will go back anytime I need some car help. read more

Such a nice place. We had a nail in our rental van and they were nice enough to repair it for free. It's hard to find trustworthy places these days and this shop is one of them. We appreciate your kindness so much. Thank you! read more

Went here after getting my oil changed somewhere else a few months ago because I was concerned my car might be leaking oil before a trip to LA. As a young woman, I'm always cautious when dealing with auto shops. They lifted my car up, showed me what they claimed was a leaking oil pan, and told me there was "zero oil" in my car. They said it wasn't safe to drive and strongly advised against taking it from their shop. I drove home anyway, checked the oil myself, and had a friend verify it as well. The oil level was completely fine. I drove to LA the next day without any issues. Whether this was incompetence or an attempt to sell me unnecessary repairs, neither is acceptable. I rarely leave negative reviews, but I felt others should be aware of my experience. read more

I was in La Jolla for an event and when I was done, I went back to my car which did not start. So I made an appointment online for the next morning. Cory was the guy who took my info and helped with each step of the way. I received a text message with a vehicle condition report of required, suggested, and thumbs up service items. Shortly afterwards I received a call, reviewed the items, and discussed what works for me. A few hours later, I paid, and picked up my car. They were prompt, informative, and warm. 10/10 recommend! read more

I have been looking for a local shop for auto repairs since I moved to SD 9 years ago. All the shops I tried sucked hard so I began going to the dealers who were great but not nearby. I work a few hours in La Jolla and decided to try Family AS. I needed a parking break and had what I felt was a high quote from the dealer. I droppedy the car off and said, "if it's less than what I was quoted at the dealer, don't worry about calling just let me know when the work is done." Went by after work. The car was done and I paid considerably less than the dealer price. I left in a great mood and when was the last time you went to get a car repair and left feeling good about it and not feeling like you got a little fleeced. This is my new shop. Absolutely nothing to complain about. Only good things to say about the staff and the service they provided. read more

On two occasions, the conversation began with a very high estimate that was later reduced. We had the brake drums and brake pads replaced, initially quoted at $4,000 and then lowered to $3,000. For the most recent work, we were first quoted $3,500, which was reduced to $2,500 and presented as a good deal. When I went in to clarify, I was told the issue involved the front suspension ball joint. It turned out that the $3,500 estimate corresponded to replacing the entire suspension arm, so the reduction was not a true discount. There was no visible grease leakage, and the rubber components did not appear more worn than in other parts of the suspension arm, which they indicated did not require replacement. I consulted an AI tool, which suggested that the quoted labor cost 20-50% higher than expected for this type of job -- even when considering high CA prices. The garage then offered an additional $600 reduction in labor, which I accepted. In retrospect, I am uncertain whether these components were actually failing or required immediate replacement, as they are sometimes cited in repairs that increase costs. The labor rate is among the highest I have seen, at $230 per hour, and we had to return the car twice due to issues with the initial repair. In retrospect, I wish I had been able to inspect the brake drums during the initial repair, as there was no noise and the brakes were not particularly old. read more

BRING YOUR BUSINESS HERE I was really worried coming into a repair shop for the first time but from the first phone call I knew I would be in good hands. They are incredibly kind and make sure you understand what is going on with your car and how they are going to help you, which was incredibly helpful and reassuring as a person who does not know a lot about cars. Rick helped me and brought me to my car to explain what they were going to do and why they were doing it. They fixed up my car in just a few hours and she is good as new! read more

Have been there a few times for oil changes and tire rotation. Great customer service have had zero issues with these guys. Rick has been a big help. read more

I was dropping tires off at this shop. Cory had a terrible attitude, didn't say hi, grabbed the tires, no thank you or anything. Bad vibes.

Horrible!!!!! They won't respond to my phone calls or emails. They overcharged and put the wrong battery in so now the check engine light keeps coming on. Our regular mechanic confirmed that it's the battery that Family Auto installed that is causing our problem. You'd think that maybe with all their negative reviews they'd try to improve. Maybe they are just going out of business and don't care. read more

We were told by our regular mechanic that the type of battery Family Auto installed was not actually very expensive, but it was the wrong battery that is causing the engine light to periodically come on. The starter battery should've been only $262 type 230 541 00 01. We were grossly overcharged and the wrong type of battery was placed in our vehicle. Family Auto will not return our calls or address this mistake. We were TAKEN!! Do not go here. read more

I got 4 of my tires replaced and the guy showed me that I was getting the Firestone - FIREHAWK AS V2 as a set of 4. I paid for it and didn't think much of it. A few months later my front right tire gets popped due to a pot hole in the road, and it's then that I realize that they GAVE ME THE WRONG TIRES. The ones they gave me are around 60 bucks more expensive per. And honestly they charge a lot for the labor compared to other shops for the same exact quality of service. I would go somewhere else. read more

I called to get a quote to get my oil changed on my 2014 Porsche Panamera and was quoted $152 which was confirmed when I arrived for my appointment and was told it would take 1-1.5 hours to complete. I sat in their waiting room for 2.5 hours before the car was complete and was then told the oil change was now $375.06. What the @#$%?!! During that 2 1/2 hours sitting in their waiting room, nobody came to ask if I would approve an over 150% increase in cost or explain how it could possibly go up by that much. After objecting a manager (bald with multiple tatoos) walked up to the counter where I was standing and without so much as a "hello", started typing into the computer. A new price of $177 came out which was still $25 higher than I was quoted. I'm not sure if they're incompetent or dishonest, but they lost my business forever. read more

Came in for a simple oil change on my 2022 Accord (only 18 k miles). The store manager, Michael talked me into a coolant flush and wheel alignment I clearly didn't need--no leaks, no pulling, manual says coolant is good to 60 k. When I later asked the manager for the alignment print-out or any test results, he had nothing and told me to "go ask the dealership." Hard pass. If you like surprise upsells and zero proof, this is your place; otherwise, find a shop that actually shows the numbers before billing you. read more

Had brakes and CV joints replaced along with engine oil and filters. Previously had a good experience but this last time was horrible, They never put the engine filter back in my 4Runner, My alignment was worse after I came in as well. But to not put an engine filter back in a vehicle- unforgivable. I did not find out until my next visit to Valvoline. Very Disappointed and disrespected David read more

I went in to get a diagnostic, and they said I needed my spark plugs and coils replaced. That was gonna cost $1500, but I talked them into taking the diagnostic cost off so $1300 for 1 hour's labor. Already a rip off. But because these people are genuinely thieves, they busted a hole in my coolant assembly to try and get me to go back and spend another $500. These people are the kind of mechanics that give all mechanics a bad name. I will never, ever be coming back here and I will encourage everyone I know to never spend a dime at this scummy den of thieves. And based on the how your rating keeps falling, I wouldn't be surprised if these thieves closed down their racket, very soon. Love, A Former Customer read more

Percy you are our angel today & a true true blessing to my nurse friend. We are forever grateful. Thx so much for helping with the red Civic DX, your knowledge & kindness. Infinite gratitude read more

SATURDAY 8-24-2024 My Friend's car went dead just behind this place. We went over to ask them for help and - I think his name was Ismael- immediately walked out and helped us out. He was really helpful and even answered all of our questions. (Friend's car battery went dead while parked for a bit. He/friend kept his accessories on in the car to keep his family comfortable.) read more

The folks at Family Auto Service are out of this world! Came in near closing time for help securing a broken skid plate and they got my car put back together in no time! Super helpful, super professional. read more

When I made an appointment for changing oil, he said it would take one hour to wait. I came there and Omar said it would be one and half hour and he said the answering operator doesn't work there, he doesn't know what is talking about. Great! I got my key back and left. read more

This place is a complete rip off. They tried charging me $2200 for new brakes, which is outrageous. I found another place in the area who did it for $850. After asking around, I learned that Family Auto is known in the community for being scammers who come up with outlandish pricing and suddenly "give you a deal" when you challenge their pricing. Will not return or recommend. read more

I planned a weekend trip to the desert with my 5th wheel trailer. Went to hook up the trailer on Friday but my diesel truck wouldn't start. After a AAA tow to Family Auto Service in La Jolla, I fully expected to cancel the trip and the truck out of service till after the weekend. I was pleasantly surprised when they immediately jumped on it, diagnosed the problem, ordered the parts (fuel filter, mount and seals) and had it ready to go in a few hours! What great service. Thanks to Bryan and his crew! I highly recommend this business. read more

Emailed ahead of time asking about an oil change, went in the next morning and they got it done in 30 min! Was worried there would be other things wrong with my car (isn't there always...) but they got me in and out super quick and had very reasonable prices. Will definitely go back for other car problems in the future. read more

Family Auto Service in downtown La Jolla is the best! I randomly brought my BMW in for a rapid blinking turn signal, they didn't have the part, found it locally, and had it delivered. It did take 90 min for the delivery, which I didn't mind especially when it was completed and they charged me nothing!! Didn't charge for the part (I know, its only $6 bulb) but certainly I suspect the BMW dealer would have charged me. Didn't charge for using the facility, they did suggest I "tip " the mechanic for his time which I gladly did. I suspect the BMW dealership would have charged me a full hour of mechanic time for a diagnosis and 5 min bulb change. I am still stunned at how nice they are there, Micah is the BEST! If they are trying to build a return customer base with great service and kindness then sign me up. I'm not sure I would ever go anywhere else. I feel so lucky to have discovered them. This service would NEVER happen in Chicago where I am from. read more

Jonathan and Mike are awesome. I came in on the spot with a tire problem, and they were so kind and good care of my vehicle. They were fast, pleasant, and I will definitely be back! Thanks guys! read more

Family Auto Service - Harvey at Family Auto Service - Auto Repair Near Me - La Jolla, California

The best place I've been to in SD and the employees are incredibly friendly and reliable. I had a big metal rod in my rear tire and took my car to them which they fixed for me in 30 minutes. As a female who knows nothing about cars they made it such an easy process and seemed very trusting and helpful. Highly recommend and will definitely be back for any future issues!! read more

Family Auto Service - Auto Repair Near Me - La Jolla, California

I had the most incredible experience here. Jonathan and Mike were so kind. Ask for them when you come in! They helped me to understand what exactly needed to be fixed and how it would pay off in the long run. I felt comfortable doing all the work I needed with them because they are so genuine. Don't go anywhere else this is a real family business that will take care of you! Thank you again for all our help. My car feels brand new and I feel safe being on the road again! read more

Family Auto Service - Inside the shop! So clean - Auto Repair Near Me - La Jolla, California

Called ahead to try and see if they would be able to replace my headlights. Gentlemen who answered the phone said "yeah come on by we have plenty in stock". Upon driving to La Jolla, I was sent to three different people who all said the other person should know. Finally ended up w a guy who seemed really annoyed he had to look up the part. He came back and said he doesn't know which bulb my car takes and that I need to go to a part shop instead. Kinda bummed I drove all the way up here after being told they had my part 15 min prior. read more

This is the best auto service place on the planet. They took me in without an appointment and fixed my broken tire very promptly. When I asked how much it costs, they did not charge me a penny! This is unrealistically excellent service that you will not get anywhere else!! Bryon Henry is the man and this is the place to be!! I wish I could give them 100 stars! Come here and you will never be disappointed! read more

They should probably change their name from "Family Auto Service" because this place is anything but family-friendly. The staff's language is foul, dirty, and inappropriate, and I felt uncomfortable as a woman being there. I felt like their assessment of the work needed on my vehicle was untrustworthy. Once I inquired about the itemized cost, they suddenly were able to lower the estimate by $1000 and give me a "deal," but adding up the cost for parts and labor still wasn't close to what they were quoting me. read more

I had a flat tire while vacationing in La Jolla from out of town. The hotel I was staying at recommended Family Auto Service. I called and spoke with Brian. I set up an appointment and he took care of me right away. The service and courtesy his company extended to me was just terrific. It was nice to be helped with such care. read more

I called these guys and made an appointment for a simple smog check. When I showed up to my appointment (15 mins early) the technician looked at me and told me that he didn't have time to do it today. When I reminded him that I had booked an appointment, he just looked at me and said "hey, I'm just telling you how it is." No apology, no offer to reschedule. Look, I know that things can come up from time to time. However, these guys did not even give me a courtesy phone call to let me know that they would be busy and could not see me today. Instead they let me waste my time driving to them only to tell me that they would not do my smog check. That is simply unacceptable which is why I am posting this negative review. I hope that this will save someone else wasting their time dealing with these guys. read more

I installed yelp just for this review. I popped my tire and pulled my big ass van into their shop. First off they aren't even able to service a van this large. Second it was going to be a 3 hour wait. Then they said F it and decided to not only fix the tire but they dropped what they were doing to help me that second. Got it all fixed in about 20 min! Then it came time to pay and they told me it was on the house. If i owned a mechanic shop there is a 0% chance that i would be even 1/10th as nice as they were. Unbelievable service especially because they cant service my car there, they treated me like family even knowing that i was unable to ever return there to get my car serviced. Don't think for a second about taking your car somewhere else. Pay the extra money to get it towed there, you'll be glad you did. read more

Never again! I'd been to Family Auto a few times and found them helpful and friendly. The other day I went there for an oil change, and got a call saying additional repairs were needed, costing over $800 on my 2018 Honda with 37,000 miles. I've owned numerous Hondas over a 40 year period and never had anything remotely like this. I told Family Auto not to do the repairs and that I would get another opinion. I went to another auto repair service recommended by a friend. I was asked if the care was not running well or if the miles per gallon had decreased. I said no the car is running fine and the MPG actually has increased to over 37 MPG. He said all I needed was a couple of filters that, installed, cost $100. Nice try on the ripoff Family Auto. read more

Huge thank you to Brian and the mechanic who serviced my vehicle!! My car broke down and was towed to this shop late on a Saturday. They were willing to stay late and work hard to get us back on the road the same day. In addition to their care/efficiency, I also appreciate this shops great hospitality, coffee, and willingness to answer all my questions. If you also get stranded on the side of the highway near Alpine (as many do), choose Family Auto Service to take care of you! read more

I called to get my tire pressure checked. I was able to get serviced immediately. Since the service was so short, they didn't charge me either. I appreciate your help, kindness, and quick service time! read more

Defiantly does not live up to the name felt like the farthest thing from family auto service called about a nail in my tire guy who picked up the phone was very rude sent my friend their and the man was so rude he made her cry. They should change their names to step family auto service would not recommend. 0 stars. Should fire got at the front. read more

Thank you so much to Josh for helping me out with my car. He got me in right away and fixed my flat tire ASAP! Very friendly and did a great job. read more

Second time needing to hit them up, this time it was Mike who took great care of me. This is my go-to shop when I'm in La Jolla.

I'm from out of town and went here to get my tires checked. Excellent service! Highly recommend! Thank you!