It blows my mind that there are one-star reviews on here. I think you'd be hard-pressed to find better service in Austin. I happened to take my car here once because I lived close, and it was a lucky coincidence! After I moved further away and tried another place that was closer (and pretty well-reviewed on here), I wasn't impressed because Hi-Tech had spoiled me. They always get the job done quickly, and if it does take a little more time, you get a loaner car with no hassle. They've had plenty of chances to swindle me into doing things I don't need to do, but they don't. For instance, I took my 2000 Honda Civic there when my check engine light came on, and they ran a test (for free), determined that nothing was wrong, and I was on my way. I even overheard a conversation with a guy who listed about eight things he thought needed to be done to his car, and they told him that only two of those things were actually necessary. They're very honest. One time, I brought my car in because the window wouldn't roll up. They fixed it, and I left, but that night, it wouldn't roll up again. I brought it in the next day, and they apologized and fixed it again, free of charge. I admit I'm not the best with car maintenance, but they always fix everything quickly, fairly, and courteously. Edit: I forgot one thing. They always explain to me what exactly the problem is and what they're going to do to fix it. When I took my car in for the window, they actually took me into the garage and showed me what was going on inside the door. I also appreciate that about them. read more

I seriously have no idea why or how anyone could have a bad experience with this family owned and run business. Tarak, Ashraf, and Shamece are my favorites and have never made me feel uncomfortable... other than the occasional scolding I get for being late on my oil change, lol... With that said, I drive my cars into the ground... and they guys at Hi-Tech make it possible. They kept our 1988 Chevy Silverado running smooth from 1994 until the day it was totaled in an accident in 2004 and with well over 200K on the odometer. They kept my 1991 Dodge (155k miles) running for 10 years until I traded it in on my 2001 Altima (185k miles)... which they kept running in stellar condition until I traded it in on my 2010 Altima. For a few years, while I lived in North Austin, I took my 01 Altima to a couple of different mechanics for A/C issues... after three expensive trips to the "others"... I made the drive South and left it with Hi-Tech, who fixed it... the first time and permanently... which didn't surprise me. I haven't "cheated" on them since, lol!! The lesson learned... the relationship with our mechanic should be loyal like it is with a family doctor. Neither profession is simple nor a perfect science. Success with the health of a automobile relys heavily on the responsibility of the owner, just like that of the health of our bodies... Focus on preventive care with the same mechanic to proactively prepare for unexpected repairs rather than reactively try to find a mechanic in your moment of panic because your car broke down. read more

I live in Travis Heights and Hi Tech on S. Congress has been taking care of my Saabs for a long time now. I really appreciate the honesty, consideration, and genuinely good work that this shop provides. The owner, Chmeis, is a man of his word, and his son Ali is right there with him. This is a family business and I am happy to support them. Recently I had a major issue with my Saab SUV. After extensive repairs I still had some issues. Chmeis told me to bring the vehicle back. There were additional issues with the vehicle not related to the repairs that were made. Chmeis could have charged me for labor, but he did not. He, Ali, and his manager kept the vehicle until all repairs were made and there were no further issues. This was done over a period of time and with NO charge to me for labor. They were so thorough that they took my vehicle between the S. Congress and 290 West locations so it could be assessed and repaired. All I paid for was parts. I have 2 Saabs that I take to Hi Tech and I will not take my cars anywhere else. I refer anyone who asks me where to take their car to Hi Tech. It is really hard in this day and age to find honest mechanics out there. Chmeis is one of them, and he has been at this for over 40 years. I completely trust him and I am grateful his shop is in the hood. If you want honest and reliable service, go to Hi Tech. read more

I've been a regular customer at Firestone for quiet some time now but I'm now happy to say that I'm no longer any more. Last night, I heard an awful sound coming from the passenger side of my car and had absolutely no idea what it was. So as usual, I took it in to Firestone to get it checked out to only be waiting around for FOUR hours and to hear that my car needed $1,006 worth of repairs. I decided to try somewhere else so I came by Hi-Tech for the first time. All I have to say, is that I was in and out in under 30 minutes and they fixed exactly what was wrong in the first place. Firestone told me that my breaks were 100% fine and that the problem was coming from my steering wheel. When I went to Hi-Tech, the problem was indeed my breaks and after going there, my car no longer makes that awful sound anymore. I'm very disappointed with Firestone for trying to charge me for things that were unnecessary, especially since I've been going there for couple years now. I will now be going to Hi-Tech from now on. The people that work here don't trick you and they tell you exactly what's wrong. Soooo impressed with this place. EVERYBODY needs to give them a chance if you haven't already! I'm now a new happy customer at Hi-Tech :) read more

I work at Hi Tech but I would like people to know how amazing the owner is behind the scenes. Not only does he treat his customers fair and honestly and like they are family, he treats his employees that way too. When we get in high heat digits he will not hesitate to walk over to the store to buy everyone a cold drink, or cut up a cold watermelon for them to cool down a little bit. He also buys the team lunch at least once a week. He is happy to pay compliments where compliments are due and isn't afraid to take the blame when someone else messes up. No matter what his position is, he wont hesitate to do the dirty work and if he does ask one of the guys to do it he will be right next to them the entire way as it is being done, working equally as hard. Most of the team has been with him for ten plus years, and are loyal to him as he is to them. He also isn't afraid of teaching new/ young men the trade and will put in the time it takes to teach them what he knows being in the business over 45 years. He has been on congress for over 31 years and has watched this beautiful street grow tremendously over the years. If you stop in, don't hesitate to ask him the things he has seen change over the past years! read more

I wish I could give a "10" star rating! After searching for an honest, skilled, mechanic for several years, I walked into Hi-Tech, and it was a done deal. I never looked back. As a single working mom, I know too well how women are too often screwed over; I was in a safe place. So many years and memories of your always being there: Always being fair and honest when accessing problems, giving me options, thinking ahead for preventing new problems; Loaning a car to get to work and even driving me the few blocks home when it was 100 degrees out (I'm 75); On the spot when I totaled front end of my Subaru, car scraped the ground as I pulled into Hi-Tech, and completed immaculate replacement in record time (who knew you did body work?!) ; At the ready and willing when I appeared to ask for the 10th time, "Could you show me how to move/remove these darned head rests?"; And getting me in for a final, total, car check out for my 1,000 miles trip out of Austin to be sure I'd be safe on trip. Chmeis, Mona, Dolores, family, and all the wonderful mechanics: Thank you for all you've been and done. I wish you the best in life. I'm so going to miss you! Dori Wagner read more

I have a 2010 BMW and have had my share of issues over the years because that's the nature of the beast. Hi-Tech mechanics are craftsmen in their diagnosis process and 100% transparent. They won me over back in the day when they determined an issue that other mechanics missed after towing my car in and out of different shops. I've had nothing but great experiences with them. They even make good if there was a mistake like a misdiagnosis or something not 100% right with their work. I have been to three mechanics with my Audi and BMW, one up the street from them, and another specialist up north, and I stay at Hi-Tech. Their labor rates are the best in town and they have access to parts you need and typically got me up and running in a day or two max. Mechanical issues are not fun and machines will fail at some point in time with no regard for what's going on in our daily lives. Hi-Tech offers loaner vehicles, leaves voicemails and emails you to keep you up to date on everything and do a pretty damn good job. I send my other BMW friends from downtown to them as well. - Tony with the White BMW read more

I brought my car in with a catastrophic failure of the left front disc brake. The caliper had blown and ground the rotor down to nothing. I met with the owner and explained that my father was a mechanic and I knew exactly what needed to be done to fix my car, and that I was on a limited income. He was friendly, had no problem negotiating on the price since there was no diagnostic work needed. He did note that there was probably a need to replace the brake hose as well, as this often is the cause behind the exact issue I experienced. Turns out he was correct about that part being bad (they had to cut it off) and they were not only willing to use the supplies I already had on hand, and did a great job on the necessary repairs. One note, due to the problem hose on the car, the repair took slightly longer than would normally be required, which included having to stay past closing time to complete the job, and he thankfully volunteered that there would be no additional charge for the unexpected additional time. They've certainly made a future customer and new cheerleader here. read more

I live in Travis Heights and drive a tempermental 2006 BMW. Hi-Tech Automotive is blocks away. Over the years, H-T has become my go-to auto repair. H-T is a family run business. The owner, Chemeis , and his family have taken great care of me and my car for years now. I love it when I walk in and Chemeis, without fail, kinda grumble/yells at me: "YOU STILL HAVE THAT CAR?" I love it. It makes me feel known and not just another nameless customer. Hi-Tech's repairs have worked every time. I never have to "repair the repair" which has happened more than once at other shops. I am not sure if Hi-Tech is the least expensive shop in town, but I feel as if they have always given me honest advice and options. In addition to their quality work, they have allowed me to pay out major repairs (huge help), come to my house to jump my battery and loaned me countless loaner cars for sometimes more than a week. The loaner cars alone have saved me hundreds of dollars. I feel very lucky to Hi- Tech in my hood. read more

I have been coming to Hi-Tech since 2008 and will go out of my way to patronize their business. These are mechanics like my grandfather used to use - they want your long-term business, not just a quick hit, so they provide advice and service to earn your trust. In years past I've brought a flat tire in and they saved me money by examining it, airing up and not charging me because I actually needed a new tire and they didn't have my size. Who does that?!? Who doesn't charge to do 45-an hour of work and then send you off to someone else? These guys. Because more than anything they want you to be satisfied. When I was single I always knew when the car came in for a simple oil change they would check everything for me whether I asked or not. Most of the time there were no issues and no extra costs. If there was an issue they always explained and made sure I was comfortable and knew my options and risks. Couldn't ask for better people or better service. read more

I took my husband's truck into the Hi-Tech location on Hwy 290 for an oil change, and I couldn't be happier with the service I received!! My husband uses full synthetic oil in his Dodge truck, and I was expecting this visit to come with a hefty price tag - I was astonished to see what a reasonable price I was charged for a full synthetic oil change! I was also blown away when the mechanic who completed the oil change told me about a few issues the truck has that need to be fixed - they even checked the brakes!! And they were so professional when they told me about the issues that the truck has, there were absolutely no pushy sales or scare tactics, they just said, these are some issues you should definitely look into fixing. The owner of this location, Maan, is so incredibly kind and helpful too! I will definitely be a permanent customer of this shop! :) read more

I recently bought a used hybrid, was sick of dealing with the dealer, and was worried about finding a reliable hybrid mechanic. I needed a 2nd opinion on a possibly expensive repair to my IMA system. I found these guys on Google, and Tariq, the owner, was immediately accessible and responsive. They worked fast and for a reasonable rate. Tariq even voluntarily did some internet research for me to brush up on tech bulletins, and found out that the manufacturer would possibly warranty that type of repair. There was a follow-up diagnostic needed when the light came back on a few days later, and they didn't charge me at all for that. I think anyone would be impressed with Tariq. He communicates intelligently and with such integrity and care. It almost feels like I have my brother working on the car. I'm so relieved I found these guys! read more

Not too many auto shops open on the weekends and for a working mom like me that's the only time I can really get any errands done. My car overheated last night and first thing in the morning I brought my van in to High Tech Automotive. Brought in at 8am and it was ready by 1:30. I needed a new radiator, hoses and a thermostat. I asked for new windshield wipers and an inspection as well. Everything was completed in one business day and I received updates and a fair price. Front desk staff was super friendly and accommodating to me and my two year old. Trust me, the complimentary coffee is a quick way to help me first thing in the morning. They had crayons and kids tv show on for my little girl. Thank you so much for the fast friendly service. Job well done and I definitely feel comfortable coming back here and referring this shop! read more

Decided to give these folks a try after hearing many recommendations. I have a rather old car I'll be using to drive 1000 miles north pretty soon. First item of business was to get my A/C fixed. That was a simple freon recharge, and they were able to take care of it quickly and easily. They did remark that there was a small chance a leak could have caused it, and offered a free diagnostic should anything go wrong with the A/C in the near future. Well, nothing went wrong. Nonetheless, as it is an old car, I decided to go ahead and take it in anyway, for a general checkup. A couple things needed work, but it was nothing that was likely to have an effect on the trip. There was no charge for this checkup. All in all, I can rest easier now, and appreciate all the help Hi Tech has provided for me. read more

These guys are top notch!!! I purchased an 03' BMW 325 three months ago. The car had been previously wrecked but not to the point of being a reconditioned title. The drivetrain was under warranty but my window regulator went out the first week. This is common with bimmers. They fixed it at no cost. Then I noticed some plastic under the front of the car was all torn up. It was causing my exterior temperature sensor to act up. They sent me to their location in Kyle. I was in a loner and two days later everything was fixed. My car is now in mint condition. At no extra charge!!! He sad he just wanted me to be happy with my new car. I felt like giving the man a hug. Of coarse a handshake was the case. Thanks Husain and Joe for being flat out awesome!!! Those guys are like I said "TOP NOTCH"!!! read more

I will only briefly add to the already glowing reputation of the fine folks at Hi-Tech Automotive (Congress and Buda locations). These guys are the best!! Never have I felt so completely at ease in a mechanic shop. Every time I come in to use Hi Tech Automotive services (car repair, collision, body paint, buy a car, etc.), not only did they complete every single job in a timely manner and at a very competitive price but they always take the time to explain the technical repairs. We bought my husband's, my kid's and my car at the right price and at a good condition. These guys are just friendly and professional gentlemen. They take pride in a job well done and have a good sense of judgment on what's worth doing and what's not. I highly recommend them. read more

Stopped in Hi Tech a week or so ago for something not at all vehicle related. I was in a real bind with a part needing repair for some work equipment. Two of the parts were rusted together, and my equipment repair could not be completed without them being separated. Without hesitation, they took the part back to their shop, and used some of their machinery to get the parts removed from each other. They helped me out of a bind, and would not accept any payment. Everyone at the front counter was friendly and even offered me coffee and donuts. They took time out of their day to help a stranger with something that was not even vehicle related. I'll definitely give them some business if I have car issues that need a mechanic. Thanks again! read more

1# Austin SAAB/Volvo Specialist I am more then impressed by my experience at Hi Tech. When i called the owner was very friendly and answered my questions patiently as i stumbled through what i thought was going wrong. within that day Hi Tech Automotive fit my car into there schedule and had a correct diagnosis, which if anyone else has a saab knows can be tough. His estimate for the completion of work was the next day even though the part wouldn't be there till the morning, but he had my car ready, and running great. like Dennis F. said the shop "has a real mom & pop feel". He charges less than other European car shops on labor and he had an option the dealer and others didn't offer. Fabulous read more

I bought a 2000 Volvo S40 years ago from Hi-Tech and the more I think about that car, the more I feel that I should write a review. I would strongly recommend buying a car from Hi-Tech. The Volvo was unbelievable! The best car I've ever had. I only replaced a few routine things on it, but other than that it drove amazing! I ended up selling the Volvo this past year because a lady drove her Dodge Ram over the side of the car hood. Even after she hit me, the Volvo had only a small dent, while the front side of the truck was trashed. Even after my Volvo was in the accident, it still drove great. The Volvo had close to 300,000 miles when I finally sold it and it drove perfect at that point too. read more