LADIES, AVOID AT ALL COSTS! PREDATORY PRACTICES!! I REGRET COMING HERE SO MUCH! I brought my car into Mario's Inspection Station last summer because my AC was only working on the highest setting, was making a loud noise, and was leaking. I stopped at Mario's because I pass by it every day on my way home. I had already been dealing with this issue for some time and had previously taken my car to another mechanic up north. Since that shop was out of the way and Mario's had great reviews, I decided to give them a chance. I pulled in, and the owner came out, told me where to park, took my keys, and said one of his mechanics would take a look at it. I went inside and waited while they inspected the car. A little later, the owner came back into the lobby and told me they had added Freon and that there might be an issue with the control switch and condenser. He said they would need to order parts and continue looking into the problem. Then he handed me a bill for $360. I was completely shocked. Mind you, I had already had another mechanic add Freon to the system just a few months earlier. I was not expecting a bill anywhere near that amount. What upset me the most was that nobody consulted me before performing the work. I never gave consent for them to add Freon. Had they asked, I would have told them that Freon had already been added recently and that I wanted to understand the issue before spending hundreds of dollars. The owner told me the Freon charge was fixed and that the remaining $160 was for diagnosing the problem. He could tell I was visibly upset. He walked me out to my car and tried to reassure me that they were going to fix the issue and that the $160 diagnostic fee would go toward the repair. He told me he would order the parts and call me the very next day. Well, guess what? He never called. Not the next day. Not later that week. Not ever. I never reached back out because the entire experience made me feel so icky. I felt uncomfortable, frustrated, and honestly taken advantage of. So I drove around for the next year with my AC STILL broken. Fast forward to now. I finally decided to do my own research and figure the problem out myself. After watching a few videos and reading up on the issue, I discovered that the likely culprit was the blower motor and blower motor resistor. I ordered the parts on Amazon, spent less than $50, and fixed it myself in about 15 minutes. So after charging me $160 for a diagnosis (a wrong one at that), never following up, pumping freon that was unnecessary, and leaving me with the exact same problem I came in with, I ended up solving it myself for a fraction of the cost. Ladies, please do your research before handing over your keys and your wallet. My experience here was incredibly disappointing, and I would never return. read more

Joel assisted me today and did the state inspection ($18) Service was prompt and professional! There were only two people working today so I'm grateful service was quick. They handed me a number and called it when my car was ready. I was in and out in 15 minutes! read more

I have been brining my vehicles to Mario Inspections since 2016 for vehicle inspections and now emissions testing. During that time I have found Mario and his staff to be efficient, honest and helpful. Over the years, Mario and his team have been efficient, honest, helpful and reasonably priced. It's an old fashion business that has earned the loyalty of its customer base thru consistently doing things right. The COVID Online appointments (which the introvert in me loved!) are gone but you can usually get in and out in a reasonable amount of time. Be warned that if you come in during peak times or at the end of the month prepare for wait times to be longer. I came for an inspection after a hail storm in 2023 and did not realize the turn signal housing/casing was broken. I was able to replace it myself and return the same day to pass the inspection. Now that they can only do emissions testing they wisely became a full service repair shop so, I also got an oil change. Richard told me about a rebate that saved me some money in the long run. If you are looking for solid service with no fluff, and want to continue to support a long time East Austin business, Mario Inspections is what you are looking for. Pro Tips: If you are looking for a lux experience keep it moving. If you want it done fair and right, you are in the right place. Walk-in and drop off if you can't wait. Bring a book, water, headphones, a fan, a hat, grab a chair and enjoy the nice weather while waiting outside. FYI: This location has a small waiting room with cold AC and a restroom. read more

Mario's Inspection was a very disappointing experience. The owner, Mario himself, was rude and disrespectful. There's nothing wrong with being straightforward, but his tone and attitude were completely unprofessional. We had a simple question about their system, and instead of explaining it respectfully, he made it seem like we were an inconvenience. We even told him we were willing to pay the $11.50, and he walked away saying "it's only $11.50, anyone can pay that" in a dismissive tone. When I asked him what that comment was about, he turned around and tried to gaslight us by claiming we said we didn't want to pay -- which was not true. As a business owner, how you treat people matters more than how long you've been in business. I got my paperwork and left. I wouldn't recommend based on how we were treated. read more

Stumbled across this place doing a quick search because I had showed up to my usual spot for state inspection but they were closed due to technical issues, so on to the next one because I was ready to get this done. Drove up and they noticed me right away and offered assistance. They mentioned the wait would be about 30 min. They were busy and that wasn't bad considering I didn't have an appointment and they already had a good amount of people waiting. They have a little waiting room inside the office area and a bathroom. They did an excellent drop with getting through these customers and with quality. Staff was friendly and informative. They gave me the price right away and then they call your name over the intercom when service is completed. read more

Mario's Inspection Station - office, waiting area, bathroom to the right - Smog Check Stations Near Me - Austin, Texas

Walked in for a state inspection! All the staff there were attentive and prompt! Great service! The state inspection was $18.50 which I think is way less than other places charge. From the time I paid to getting my car key back was less than 10 minutes. Super efficient! read more

Mario's Inspection Station made getting my car inspected super easy. The price was clearly posted (remember to bring cash), and the staff couldn't have been nicer. There's a clean, air-conditioned room to wait in, and the whole process only took about 10-20 minutes. Quick, friendly, and hassle-free. Tjhis will definitely be my go-to for emissions tests when in Austin! read more

Everything was great. Polite, pleasant, efficient. Could not have been happier. Highly recommend.

I've been coming to Mario's Inspection for the past 5 years since it's conveniently in my neighborhood, and it's my go-to spot for car inspections. They no longer take online reservations, so I just walked in and was in and out in about 40 minutes, only waiting because a few clients were ahead of me. The staff is always friendly and helpful, and what I love most is that they never try to upsell anything that isn't necessary. Highly recommend! read more

In and out in 15 minutes. We did get there right before about 10 people showed up. It was as easy as possible and they were friendly. When the queue was up to about 10-15 cars, they said the wait was 35 minutes. They have two inspectors so everything is quick. No appointments. read more

Previously I had written off Mario's even though they're the closest inspection shop to my house. On a previous visit, the inspector would not pass my car without buying new wiper blades from them which they had priced at $20 a piece. I felt very ripped off and started going to a different inspection shop. One of my other vehicles was up for an inspection and I almost didn't pull in when passing because of that experience. Sure enough, they looked at one of my wiper blades and said it wouldn't pass and I got frustrated and said I would go somewhere else. As it turned out. I was talking to Mario, the owner. I told him about my prior experience and how they nitpick on wiper blades way more than other inspection shops. He made it up to me by comping my wiper blade this time and apologizing for my previous experience. I have no problem with buying a new wiper blade. If one is so bad it won't pass inspection but in my opinion this wasn't the case last time. This time it definitely was, but a wiper blades should be no more than $10, not $20. Regardless, I told Mario about my issues and he gave me his cell phone number. In case I have any issues in the future, so I have to give him five stars for customer service. Will use them again in the future and will report back if I have a different experience when Mario's not there. read more

Friendly and efficient! I booked a 4:15pm appointment the morning of, which was super easy online. There are easily identifiable parking spots, it's located on a kind of busy intersection. Checked in with the inspector a few minutes early, handed over my keys, and waited inside which was nice and cool. There is also seating outside. The inspection took about 15 minutes, so quick and seamless! It cost $18.50. FYI, they are not a full body/mechanic shop and they do not carry the tools to fix anything. read more

Mario's Inspection Station - Indoor sitting area - Smog Check Stations Near Me - Austin, Texas

I needed to get my car inspected, so I went to Mario's, as I had the year prior. I found out that they offer additional maintenance, so I had them work on some nagging issues I had with the vehicle. Richard was excellent in dealing with the vehicle and providing me with tremendous service. I will be going back to Mario's next year for my annual smog check. read more

Don't waste your time here. Every member of staff is rude. Inspector walks around with his little badge like he's the baddest guy around. Guy hadn't started the inspection yet but saw the check engine light on in my car. Didn't bother to tell me it wouldn't pass. Went along with the inspection, checked lights, blinkers etc, took it for a test drive. He comes back and all the stuff I had on my seat was shuffled around like he was snooping around, he denied it of course. Then he rings me up and tells me I failed because the check engine light was on. Bro, at least have the decency to tell me it wouldn't pass regardless before starting it. I asked him about it and he just shrugged his shoulders, "you wanted it inspected right" Crap business, all for what $20. GO SOMEWHERE ELSE PEOPLE, YOUVE BEEN WARNED! read more

Website says closed for lunch from 1-2; showed up at 1215 and was turned away because they said they were out to lunch. Should update website if that's the case read more

This is the third time I've come here and honestly I've never made an appointment. Always easier to come during the week than on the WKN. The first time I had zero issues, I did need new windshield wipers! & they were bad & glad I fixed them! The second time I was told by Mario I couldn't pass and explained due to me replacing my battery the sensors wouldn't read. Richard never complained about the time I showed up and was very nice! I asked him if I needed my windshield wipers changed he thought they were just fine. Thank you so much Richard and Mario for the excellent and honest service you provide read more

Mario's Inspection Station was recommended when I moved to Austin in 2023. I was impressed with the efficiency and commit to customer service I received. I am more pleased with my recent visit when I needed an Inspection and Emissions test for registering an older car in Texas. Richard helped me get done what I needed. however, that is only part of what makes me want to return to place for service. Perhaps, even more importantly is Richard conducting himself with integrity, and him making sure that integrity translates to his staff as well. They did what they said, nothing more and nothing less. Richard did not try to oversell me, and I can appreciate this in an industry that can easily take a customer "for a ride". I highly recommend this Station and I will be going there moving forward. read more

There was a line for inspection, but they did the job done before they closed. Friendly service as well.

I've been coming to Mario's for years. Although annual inspections can be a drag, Mario's makes it a very easy process with online appointment bookings, indoor and outdoor waiting areas, and polite service. Check in with Mario, show your proof of insurance, hand over your keys and have a completed safety inspection in about 15 minutes. Highly recommend! read more

Mario's Inspection Station - Smog Check Stations Near Me - Austin, Texas

I needed three things done that normally would've had me running around Austin but I got it all done in one stop here. Richard and Jose were awesome and friendly. Feels good to know I have a go-to place for these things. read more

They lost my key while fixing my break lights and I had to wait and go back and get a different key.

I recently took my 2005 Honda Accord in for an inspection but initially it did not pass due to needing to sensors. As a female, I'm sometimes reluctant to handle auto repairs alone but they diagnosis it, order the parts, repaired it and after driving it for the required distance the vehicle successfully PASSED inspection. I loved the customer service I received and will definitely visit this establishment again. Richard was awesome to work with, and the mechanics were very knowledgeable. KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK!!!! Josie M. read more

Went here for an inspection and they said I needed to purchase new $40 wipers to pass. I also went in for an oil change and the guy outside quoted me a cheaper price than the person who went to ring me up. I quickly notified the guy at the front desk that what I was being charged wasn't the original quoted price. He then reluctantly gave me the cheaper price. Would I go back? Maybe in a pinch if no one else was available. read more

Always quick and efficient. Go to place for state inspections. Appointments are helpful or you can call ahead and ask what their current wait is like. read more

I've been coming to Mario's for years for my inspection and they are truly fantastic. So friendly and efficient. You can make an appointment online and they'll work quickly to get you back on the road. They have seating inside and outside where you can wait on your car. I cannot recommend this place enough. read more

Natalie and the staff are excellent. Always kind when answering questions and this will be the 3rd year coming in from San Marcos just to be serviced by Mario's. Quick and efficient. The Best! read more

Super nice, accommodating folks. Make an appointment over the phone and you'll be in and out quickly. Highly recommend!

Excellent location and really nice office (Del Valle location). Friendly and fast service too! Worth the drive even if you don't live in this area. read more

Mario's Inspection Station - Outdoor Waiting area - nice little setup. - Smog Check Stations Near Me - Austin, Texas

I come here for my car inspections and auto repair. They're kind, honest, and straightforward - they'll help with whatever you need but they don't push unnecessary items or try to hoodwink you. One thing in particular won me over. I brought in my truck and had been having issues with the battery. I had recently unhooked the battery and Mario warned me that the computer would have also restarted, which would have led to a failed test. He encouraged me to come back after I had driven a certain number of miles. I was grateful for the advice rather than just blindly putting me through an inspection I would have failed. read more

Best inspection service in central East Austin. Make an appointment to avoid a wait. There's an indoor air-conditioned waiting room. They're fast. It's great. Love it. read more

Made an appointment and they ran a little behind. Friendly folks, great service! I always prefer to support local businesses.

I have been coming here for years with all my vehicles, but this last inspection was a big flop. When I went to sell my current vehicle to CarMax, my car got flagged "rollback" as if I changed the mileage on it. My car doesn't even have 50,000 miles on it and Mario, the owner, reported my mileage as 110,518 miles on a 2018 vehicle. Big difference! Of course they offered to have me come back and redo the inspection, but I'm already at the dealership so would be a huge inconvenience. You guys have to be more thorough and check your numbers. You just lost a 7 year customer. read more

Mario's is a great place to go for an inspection and a very poor choice for an oil change. I've been coming here for years to get my car inspected and the last time I came they told me that I needed an oil change and offered to do it. I gladly accepted. Upon driving home later that day, the bottom of my car started dragging on 183 North going 65 mph. Very disconcerting and a bit scary. My husband and I brought the car back to be fixed and they zip tied the bottom on as the piece itself got damaged. The next issue was that the oil started leaking out of my car ruining our driveway and requiring us to have to park on the street. Once again, I took my car back to Mario's. They told me they tightened the bolts causing the leak. But, the car still leaks. The final straw was when the bottom of my car completely fell off. I contacted Mario on May 10 asking for resolution and a refund on my oil change to which he has not replied and nothing has been done to take care of this. Don't get your oil changed here. It's a bummer to pay money to have your car in worse condition than when you brought it in. read more

Mario's Inspection Station - Smog Check Stations Near Me - Austin, Texas

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I am a loyal customer if Mario's for the past 3 years. They are extremely professional and super friendly at the same time. They take appointments over phone and are prompt with their inspections. I went there a few days back at the height of the pandemic. Social distancing guidelines were followed to a T. Their indoor waiting area has been moved outdoors and the chairs are all spaced apart. Mario used covers when he was touching the car surfaces. The makeshift check out counter has a huge shield protecting the customer and the owner. Highly highly recommend! I will give them 10 stars if I can! read more

Mario's Inspection Station - Smog Check Stations Near Me - Austin, Texas

Do NOT go here for your yearly vehicle inspection. Most of these reviews brag about how "quick" their wait times are to get inspected. Ask yourself for a moment why it could be that this place is so much faster than pretty much every other shop you could get it done at in Austin. I came here to get my yearly inspection done and within a week I was pulled over for a broken tail light. I don't think the inspections here are being done properly. Rather, they just fill out the papers and send you off in an effort to churn as many customers as possible. It's dangerous and frankly criminal. If you value your vehicle safety and don't want to get pulled over by the cops for having broken components, do not go here for your yearly inspection. read more

Not much to report. I've had my car inspected here 3x. Each time I just walk in without an appointment and the wait is about 20 minutes, then I'm on my way. read more

Excellent service and a unique business model. Being able to make an appointment for a vehicle inspection is pretty convenient. They have a nice outdoor waiting area with fans, plants and a canopy. Nothing but good things to say about this place. read more

Made an appointment and showed up for an inspection to wait 25 minutes when I was told it would only be 20 (and they hadn't even started seeing my car yet). read more

Great service and quick. I went for an inspection and he helped fix my rear window light where the wire had been yanked out so I wouldn't fail. I'll keep going back. read more

This is my go to place for yearly auto inspections. They are friendly they are quick and they are very reasonable. I call to make an appointment and they either told me come in now or when I can come that is convenient for both of us. Yesterday I went in. And was out in 15 minutes. Perfect! read more