Ali and Charlene took great care of me again! Problem with my daughter's Subaru Crosstrek was very mysterious. Ali tested the car thoroughly and was able to take care of the problem. Fast, friendly, and professional. You can trust this business implicitly! read more

Montclair Auto Tech-Volvos & More - Auto Repair Near Me - Oakland, California

It almost feels unfair to give Montclair Auto Tech only five stars, because they've earned so much more. My family has been coming here for over 20 years, and in all that time, we've never trusted anyone else with our cars or our peace of mind. I still remember being stranded in Southern California because my Volvo XC70 broke down. I called the local dealership and got a quote that I wasn't sure about. I reached out to Ali, and his depth of knowledge was staggering. He confirmed the pricing and was even able to accurately break down the labor and parts costs. He also gave me a few questions to ask just to be safe. That kind of reassurance, from hundreds of miles away, was priceless. Now that I drive a Lexus, Montclair Auto Tech is still the only place I'll take it for service or repairs. Their honesty, skill, and consistency are unmatched. I'm deeply grateful for this shop. They have my highest recommendation. read more

Great service. Knowledgeable and NOT condescending. We had our Subaru serviced here and what a pleasant experience it was to speak with people who listen. Will definitely be coming back regularly for maintenance and major services. read more

I found out about Ali and his amazing shop on Reddit, specifically recommended for women who don't want to be taken advantage of when they come to the mechanic. He was able to fix my wheel bearing and give me an alignment, both had my car feeling brand new and both services were fairly priced. Unfortunately, my car has recently started leaking oil! But I found myself less stressed out knowing I could just give Montclair Auto a ring and I would be in great hands. Thanks so much for your honest work, you make the world a better place! read more

Had a random knocking issue while driving and Montclair auto was the closest shop so I went there with no other context. Ali (the owner) told me he didn't work on Mercedes but offered to run the engine code. He took it a step further to order the part and fix it right there on the spot in 2 hrs time. Felt like he went out of his way to help me and I appreciated it. read more

Had pretty much all the warning lights come on in my car and Montclair was the closest shop to me so I called and they told me to come in. They ran a diagnostic and found out my transmission was going out. They unfortunately could not fix the transmission but I really appreciated them trying to help me out! I truly believe in karma in this world and the team at Montclair are good people, they deserve all the business! read more

Amazing experience with Montclair Auto Tech from the time they answered the phone to when I dropped our car off, and picked it up after repairs completed. Excellent communication from start to finish. Car runs like a dream, and we couldn't be more pleased. The shop is clean, and staff are professional and friendly. This is our new shop from now on. Thank you, Montclair Auto Tech! read more

Super friendly and they did quick work. The only reason this isn't a 5 star review is that the price was quite a bit higher than I was expecting before I arrived (though their quote when I came in that morning was exactly the amount paid, so that was good). For a simple oil change and check up on a 2 year old car in great condition they charged 50% more than the Subaru dealer in downtown Oakland, though on the plus side it only took 1.5 hours while I waited in a nearby coffee shop. read more

I came here on a whim when I didn't know what was wrong with my car. They were able to diagnose the issue that day and kept in contact with me about their progress! Great service and communication. read more

Excellent set of professionals who didn't make the job to be anything more than it was. Fast, direct and honest. It was a great experience.

Ali, Charlene and their stellar team have been helping me take care of my 1987 240dl since 2015. Doesn't matter where I'm based in the bay, I still take my volvo to Ali because no one else pays such a high level of attention. Their work is efficient, high quality, and honest, and I can trust them to find the best solutions to any of my car's (many) problems. And I value their honest opinion about the work that is needed - Ali has never recommended I do any work that isn't necessary. As my car ages, I know it's because of Ali and team that my volvo continues to run smoothly. Montclair has cared for my car the past 10 years, and I'm looking forward to 10 more. Thank you Montclair Auto Tech for being the most trustworthy and consistent team! read more

The BEST! Ali and his staff were great to work with. I was ready to throw in the towel with my 04 Volvo XC90 when the instrument cluster intermittently went out but Ali and his staff were able to figure out the cause of the issue and get me back on the road. Happy to have my car back! Thanks again, Ali! read more

Such an honest auto repair shop. I've been driving around a 1988 Volvo 240DL, until it recently stalled on the freeway heading home - smoke under the hood and everything. "Ah, shit" I thought. So I had it towed to Montclair after reading about the work they've done on older Volvos (among other cars that aren't Volvos). Had AAA tow driver park it right in front before they opened, I dropped my key through a designated chute, and went home, then called as soon as they opened. Charlene was quick to answer my call and give her a heads up about what happened to the car. I called at 8 AM and they did an inspection within the hour! So quick. But my engine was shot - lost compression. The only way to get the car going was to replace the engine altogether, which would be above the value of the car. I went there, met Charlene who will give it to you straight. Typically, inspections are $140 by the hour and when asked when I could take care of the payment, she said I was good! (Maybe she felt bad that I'd be going home without my car.) That was definitely helpful. When I had it towed off their lot, she updated my tow driver and had a couple mechanics help put the car onto the truck - I didn't have to do a single thing! We own another Volvo, so I won't hesitate to bring it there if we have any issues with that *knock on wood.* It's in an area with a yummy bakery, so I'd probably help myself to a snack while I wait on the work. read more

Montclair Auto Tech-Volvos & More - Auto Repair Near Me - Oakland, California

See all

Overpriced and predatory. Upcharged me on the work on my Volvo only to create more issues. Went to the dealership and they were appalled at the work that had been done just weeks prior! Wanted to love this place as I just moved in around the block. The owner, Ali, was also difficult to work with... Truly bizarre experience all around. read more

Well, they did fix one of my issues, which was exactly the problem I told them it was (and I provided the replacement part) but the problem of my car stalling unexpectedly at intersections? It still does that. It doesn't generally stall if it's just sitting still idling, and since that's how they tested it, it didn't stall when they had it. It actually now has a new idle problem... To be fair, they do seem to be quite busy so I guess they didn't really have the time; they told me I'd have to wait a month to get another appointment. I can't blame them, a lot of mechanics retired or left town during the pandemic. My old mechanic retired in 2020, which is why I went looking for another one; but I don't really live near Montclair so going back repeatedly is not a great option. I would not say that they're dishonest or anything, but I guess not the place for me. I guess I'll keep interviewing mechanics. read more

Montclair Auto Tech is a wonderful shop. Ali and his shop take wonderful care of my Volvo. I have been going there for about 8-9 years, and so glad I found them. read more

Been taking my 18y Honda year since I've moved to the Bay Area and always satisfied with the work they do to keep my baby running. Prices seem to be about average when I've googled the job to get a rough industry estimate. The only drawback is a testiment to their good work: sometimes you may need to wait weeks for an opening, although on an emergency, I've been able to get it within a few days. read more

Been taking my various Volvos and now Hondas to Ali for many years now. He's honest, accessible and competent. Always reasonably priced for great service. I'm staying here... thank you Ali ! read more

I have a Mazda CX5. I took my car to this shop because I needed my evap system leak repaired. I read a lot of great reviews about Ali and the shop so I decided to try them out. You cant really trust shops, especially as a female because they always try to over price us. I brought my car in around 940 am on a Tuesday. Ali called me within two hrs to tell me the problem, (hole in charcoal canister)the solution (new charcoal canister), and the cost of parts/repair. The part had to be ordered from Mazda and we agreed I would pick the vehicle up on Thursday. To my surprise I was told I could pick my car up the next day. Ali was very polite and the price of repair was very fair. The staff at the front desk was also polite over the phone as well as in person. I am satisfied with the repair of my vehicle, I had a great experience with them, and strongly recommend you getting your car repaired here. Thanks Ali and staff! read more

This place is world class. Stopped in with a 2009 Honda Fit bumper cover that had gotten bumped off by an unseen curb, and Ali(sp?) happened to be walking by the front door, dropped to a knee and just started fixing it right there with his penlight and a screw driver. Had it fixed in 5min. I was so astonished by the instant and honest service, I offered $50 cash and he would only accept $20. This place is truly a gem. He could have easily said to leave it with him and charge me $200 for it. Def recommending to all my friends, this is the way you run an excellent on honest values business. read more

Had my car towed there with an acid-eaten battery conduit, which resulted in my car not starting. They got me in same day, were super friendly, charged a VERY reasonable price & had my car done in a couple hours. Definitely my new auto folks. read more

They had my car fixed and ready on the same day, and had great communication/follow up over email when I put in a request online. I can tell that this is a very professional team and they turned my car anxieties (including the cost) into a clockwork repair. My car drove like a dream when I picked it up, and I'll be coming back to Montclair the next time my car is struggling. Thank you guys again! read more

Ali (the owner & Operator) is no finer individual you'd would expect to meet. He works real hard to do the right thing! He has worked on several vehicles. (Of ours) over the years! read more

Super friendly, great work, and very reasonable prices. I wouldn't take my 8 year old Volvo anywhere else!

We moved to Oakland a couple years ago and we got lucky we found this place. They are a bit pricey but we'll worth it. Our Subaru is running great and they don't try to up sell you. Great neighborhood mechanic read more

I had an awful night with my Volvo alarm going off randomly and disturbing all my neighbors. I called Montclair Auto Tech in the morning and Charlene was professional and patient with my frazzled rambling and told me to stop by. Ali was awesome and obviously knows his Volvo's well, even the older quirkier models like mine. He was courtesy, answered my questions, and took care of the issue. Would highly recommend this shop! read more

We have a Honda Civic but we don't care. We take our car here for routine check-ups as well as issues that come up because we trust Ali and Mike. They are professional and are experts at what they do. Always a positive experience. read more

I have been taking my Volvo sedan to Montclair Auto Tech for over 25 years (this is my second Volvo!). Ali, the owner, is not only an excellent mechanic but is kind, listens to my concerns, and charges fair a fair price for servicing my car. He is knowledgeable, professional, and provides detailed explanations for the work that is needed. Montclair Auto Tech completes the job on time, too, so I don't worry about when I will get my car back. The other people who work there are friendly and helpful-especially Charlene. And, if you are a woman who feels intimidated when going into an auto shop, this is the place to go. Everyone is treated with respect and kindness. Sincerely, Rande Webster read more

Awesome, Friendly, Caring and Honest! Fair pricing. I would not take Volvo anywhere else in the area. Thank you read more

Came back 4 years later and they replaced a headlight and all wiper blades (front and back) for the cost of parts only! These folks are amazing. read more

I'm on my 4th Volvo and have had my Volvos serviced at two other independent Volvo mechanics, not including a few ripoff trips to the dealer (don't do it!). Ali and Charlene are hands down the most trustworthy and reasonable Volvo team I've come across. A little over a year ago, I was having some serious electrical issues with my current Volvo and was really concerned that I'd end up spending more than the car was worth to fix them... Ali patiently walked me through my options and the steps he'd have to take to diagnose and fix the issue without unnecessary expense. Not only was he completely reasonable with the labor time, but he also went above and beyond by driving my car to and from his home during his commute (which I Okayed in advance) since the electrical issue was only surfacing after 20-30 minutes of driving so wasn't apparent with a short test drive. Was very happy with the service and communication, and my later routine service appointments have been no exception. Wholeheartedly recommend Montclair auto if you're a Volvo lifer like me! read more

Having my car for 5 years and doing nothing to it except oil changes, I needed someone honest who wouldn't rip me off like the dealership about what up keep needed to be done. Everyone was SO nice and did amazing work, and even stayed open for me to come get my car after I got off work to make sure I had it back in the same day after there were some delays with my tires. Will always go here for my needs from now on! read more

Great service and the atmosphere was very friendly! I brought my CRV in for the simple oil/transmission and tire rotation and super fast service! Didn't have to wait long and I can tell the alignment was off before I went into the shop and when I left the shop the alignment was perfect! Now I can take my hands off the wheel and it just goes straight no longer moves to the right!! Hahha...don't worry I do drive with both hands on the wheel! I recommend Montclair Auto Tech! I will defiantly be back again! read more

If you have a Volvo in the Bay Area this is where you want to go. Total pro! Clear communication. Fair prices. Sets a time to be ready and always meets it. The best mechanic I have ever worked with. Highly recommend! read more

I love this place. The owner Ali is a gentleman, friendly and honest and ethical. I trust him. I've encountered shady, shifty auto mechanics in the past, and it's a great relief to find an auto-repair shop that's trustworthy and above-board. read more

It's time customer and very impressed. Volvo dealer wanted 150$ 'diagnostic fee' to fix my rear windshield. I pulled in here and poof, 5 minutes, he tightened a screw and all done and they did as courtesy. They ordered my rear tail light piece and can replace tomorrow for 1/2 of what dealers said. Needless to say, Miss Charlene and Ali are the bomb and they have a customer for life in me Thanks to both of you! read more

Love, love my 91 Volvo wagon it gives me pure nostalgia! I grew up in a family with a love for Volvo, my father owned a 65, 77 and 85 Volvo. He would tinker on them every weekend and I was right by his side! So, when the engine light came on for the first time, I freaked out and called my father. The place he used to take his Volvos to had closed! After reading the reviews and talking to a few Volvo owners, I decided to trust Montclair Auto. I dropped it off early morning; customer service was great; we also talked about other minor concerns. (my windshield sprayer had not been working for a while). I received a call that same afternoon, it was ready! The engine now purrs and they fixed the windshield sprayer! The price was very reasonable, not a deep pocket cringing payout! I will be bringing it back to see Ali. read more

Unfortunately I'm at a bit of an impasse with my 86' 240 but had to leave a great review. They definitely were there for my Volvo. Good communication/advice, quality work and value. Parts are hard enough to come by. Worth taking here and I appreciate them read more

Highly competent shop. Came in with out Volvo XC90 that had issues our usual mechanic couldn't solve. Montclair took care of the issue as well as several others. Great experience bringing my vehicle here! read more

I've gone here twice and have been very pleased with their transparent pricing and timely communication. Their prices are fair and I've gotten my car back when I've needed it. I love that I can set up an appointment through yelp too! I have a VW Jetta and feel so happy to have this place to provide the services/maintenance needed! read more