John is very good at what he does. He is a no-nonsense guy who will tell it like it is. He gave me the price and he honored what he said. He didn't try to upsell me. He did suggest that I make some concerns a priority, which I thought was a great way of approaching it because clearly he's advising something, but he didn't try to convince me that I should go ahead and do it while the car is in his shop. I trust this guy inherently. He'll tell it like it is. read more

I don't normally leave reviews, but I feel obligated to warn others about my experience here. I brought my vehicle in for a fuel injector issue and supplied my own parts. The shop proceeded with work without clearly communicating the scope, process, or total cost upfront. I ended up paying around $1,000 expecting the issue to be properly resolved. Within about a month, the exact same problem came back and the vehicle began dumping fuel, running poorly, and became undriveable. I had to tow it back to the shop. At that point, instead of standing behind their work, they initially tried to charge me again to fix the same issue. I was also told, without any proof, that someone else may have worked on the vehicle. After pushing back, they did additional work and returned the vehicle but the same issue came back immediately the same day I picked it up. At this point, I've lost confidence in their ability to properly diagnose or repair the vehicle. Between the repeated failure, lack of accountability, and poor communication, this has been a frustrating and costly experience. If you're considering using this shop, I strongly recommend getting everything in writing upfront and being cautious. Based on my experience, I would not return. read more

This is the only place me and my dad take our vehicles. John, the owner, is as honest as the day is long and truly knows his stuff. It's rare to find someone you can trust like that. Motorman Garage is a real hidden gem quality work, fair prices, and great people. read more

Outstanding honest service. They have my business for here on out! What I thought was wrong did not pan out. They have charged me more for the evaluation but they didnt. read more

Very honest Gentleman! Has taken care of two cars for me and I appreciate his "telling it like it is" approach. Will continue to give his number to friends and family. read more

Solved my odd electrical problem. Problem was a little tricky, but I had no issues after their recommended fix.

This is the 2nd vehicle that I've asked them to do repair work on. I am happy with my experience. I am glad that there are still honest and knowledgeable mechanics out there, that charge reasonable prices. Thank you Motorman Garage for being a community resource that I can rely on. read more

John, the owner of Motorman Garage was extremely friendly and he went above and beyond to get my vehicle up and running after it had not been driven in a couple of years. His estimate quote was fair and honest. He called me the afternoon he got the car and said it was ready to be picked up! Super fast service! There were no hidden fees and he didn't try to up-charge me for anything. When I picked up the vehicle, not only did he fix everything for me but he also washed my car! He is an honest mechanic and one you can trust to fix everything without trying to upsell. I highly recommend!! Thank you, John! read more

This place is great! Shoots straight, no fluff, no up sale, good job at a fair price.

My truck failed inspection at an inspection place in Austin, so after exhausting my patience trying to figure out and resolve the issue caused by the code I was given I bit the bullet and had a professional look at it. As he did in the last with our car, he listened to what I at least thought the problem was, and focused in on that for his diagnostic. He narrowed the problem down and charged me for the work he did that was needed and didn't try and Nicole and dime me for everything that could possibly be wrong. I happily paid and passed my inspection. read more

Transparent and fair pricing, clear and honest explanations of the problem and great work. Family referred me to Motorman after a dealer garage tried to rip me off big time. The dealer garage mechanics quoted an inflated price to fix my radiator problem and said my engine was probably shot anyway. Then they offered to save me a towing fee by taking the "dead" truck off my hands. So happy I heard about Motorman. John, the owner, saved me thousands of dollars. My truck now runs better than before the problem cropped up. Could not recommend more highly! read more

Thank you Motorman for getting my car on the road in 2 hrs flat! My daughters car had a few small issues. The accelerator cable came loose (it was not driveable), the check engine light came on and it needed an inspection. Motorman help me arrange the pick up, then they fixed the accelerator cable, adjusted the O2 sensor and finally did an inspection. I was so relieved to have it all done. I could not believe how quickly they responded! The pricing was lower than was quoted too. Thanks again Motorman!! read more

I have to give a positive review, not for me, but my daughter. I am on the east coast and my adult daughter just moved to Texas. Her car was acting up and of course she could not bring back here to have it checked. I did a Yelp search and found MotorMan Garage and I am really glad I did. They were honest and fixed her car with minimal cost. Thank you for being a place she can trust with her car in her new home! A+ read more

Forget fancy lobbies, TV ad jingles and light-up signs. This place is where you should get your car fixed if you want to be treated with respect in North Austin. I just got my '99 Mustang GT back from there this week, and was impressed that they not only repaired a wide variety of problems (from four bad oxygen sensors to a grinding sound in the rear axle and a minor transmission problem) but they also diagnosed some issues that four (count 'em, four) other shops in the vicinity didn't know how to fix and/or didn't bother to take the time to address. Here's why I'll be going back: 1.) It's a REAL shop. The office is inside the garage, which tells me the management is actively involved with the repairs. (Don't let the "garagey" feel intimidate you -- that just means they're probably working on fixing cars instead of reading Better Homes and Gardens.) 2.) It's a small and local shop which could use a little additional business -- meaning they can get to your car quickly and will appreciate your patronage. (I'm taking a risk by posting this review to Yelp, as well-kept secrets in Austin are getting increasingly hard to find.) 3.) They don't mind explaining what's wrong with your car in detail. They don't treat you like you're mechanically stupid (even if you are) or glaze over when you try to explain the problem. They'll work with you on a solution, and then start turning a wrench. The location is a little out of the way, but it's well worth a few screen-taps on the ol' GPS. The office was indeed smoky, but they were courteous about it. I'm leery of smoke-free garages, anyway. Don't be ridiculous: Give the Motor Man a shot. read more

I'm a big fan of John at Motorman. I have 3 vehicles that he has worked on multiple times and find him to be incredibly trustworthy and professional. We live nearby so it is great to have a neighborhood mechanic who is incredibly honest and fair. I appreciate the fact that he will point out when it is best to use OEM factory parts and when he can get equivalent parts from other suppliers at a lower cost. He will frequently give "options" based on the money you want to spend and your time remaining in the vehicle which I appreciate. Also, literally EVERY time I leave, he reminds me to call him with any questions or concerns. He wants the chance to either fix anything that went wrong or if some repair doesn't work out; I haven't had to call him back yet on about 10 visits! John has a lot of personality to expect to hear the truth "straight". But, he is very kind. I only took off one star because, due to them being a small shop, many of the repairs will take longer than a day which is frustrating. We are fortunate to have multiple cars so can work out that small inconvenience. Overall, I highly recommend. read more

John at Motorman has just earned himself a lifetime customer. He was incredibly kind to my daughter and I. He was able to repair my brakes pretty quickly and his prices are very reasonable. As much as I hope nothing breaks on my car, it's very reassuring to know where to go if something does. read more

My car broke down on a Friday morning had it towed in to motor man and by the aftethe car was ready to be back on the road again thanks so much for all your help motor man I will be back. read more

Highly recommend. The quote I got was almost half as much as the other places I checked. They got it in right away and was done in just a few hours read more

Needed to have my transmission fluid changed. This place was the best price by far and did the service really quick. Quirky is good way to describe the owner. My kind of place. Will come back. Felt like a very straight shooter when discussing what repairs my truck might need. read more

I've lived in RR for over a decade, and I have taken my all of my vehicles including my mother-in-law's and my father-in-law's to John Martin (aka Motorman) at the MOTORMAN GARAGE. They have done amazing work for me and my family. They keep my vehicles fully maintained and repaired as needed. John and Thomas are the best! Humble, knowledgeable, great attitudes with straight no chaser advice and direction every time. I have had an engine replaced and no one in town gave me as good of an estimate as Motorman! I have sent friends with work from engine replacement needs to and basic repair and maintenance needs and they all tell me how good the service is and how they too are very satisfied with the excellent work. My vehicles are:1964 Ford Truck; 2000 Isuzu Rodeo, 2002 Ford Escape; 2007 Jeep Commander, 2013 Volkswagen Passat --- this is just evidence that John and the guys at Motorman Garage can take care of domestic and import cars regularly and with ease. I trust them!!! Simply the best garage in town!!! read more

I have a 2011 Ford that the dealership had said needed a new engine at a cost of about 8-10 thousand dollars. Of course I declined and tried to find someone else to get a quote. I was referred to MotorMan Garage as someone who specialized in replacing motors. After discussing the issues with John he determined that I didn't need to replace the motor. He was able to fix the problem and saved me a-lot of money. About a month later I took the car back for multiple different issues, and John was able to take care of all the issues that the car had at a fair price. I certainly be back. read more

The MotorMan resurrected my 2011 Accord! I was sure it was a goner, but he was able to make it purr again for a very fair price. For those who drive their cars until the wheels fall off, I highly recommend the MotorMan to keep it running! read more

My husband and I have been bringing our vehicles to John for years. He is an honest mechanic and will be straight with you. No frills, no hassles, just good honest work. If you are someone who needs a good reliable 'car doctor' John is the man to take your cars to. He is indeed a character, as others have said LOL! read more

I'm as picky as it comes to who works on my car as you can get- it comes from always wanting to do all my own work, buy my own parts, etc. On top of that, my LAST NAME is the same as a car company (you do the math), so it takes a lot for me to want to go anywhere to get work done on my car AND walk away feeling like I've been given great service. This is the best shop I've ever been to, period. Every time I've faced a challenge that I knew I neither had the tools or the skill to fix, I called John and he went above and beyond to make sure it was done correctly and without breaking the bank. I had two issues in the last six months and both times John's work was excellent, fast and for anywhere between 1/4-1/3 of what any other place, dealership or independent, was wanting for the same work. John is a straight shooter- tells you what needs to be done, what the price is, when it will be done, etc. There's no wondering about fine print, a "gotcha" or anything like it. I was also humbled to get calls from John multiple times after the work was done, a few days or weeks after, to ask me how things were going and if the car was running as it should. I've NEVER encountered that, not even from dealerships that say they give you the red-carpet treatment (even when I go to a dealership that has my family's name on all the cars). Don't let going to a dealership fool you- having a nice waiting room, a bottle of water, polished tile floors or matching polos fool you- what REALLY matters is the quality of work done in the bay and the people helping to serve you. MotorMan Garage has it where it counts! There is no higher complement that I can give to John and his staff for their quality of work and treatment of customers. This is how you make a lifelong customer, and I knew it even after the first time. If you're looking for the BEST auto repair business out there, congratulations- you've just found it. read more

Took my 2004 Ford Escape in last Saturday, 11/23, for a bad wheel sound/possible brake problem. John stayed after closing time to finish replacing the wheel bearing and fixed the power steering fluid level. He did a great job, even suggested some things to keep an eye on in the next few months. Though it was a cold and rainy Saturday, he took care of my car and was friendly, informative, and helpful when we returned to pick up the car. He has my business for maintaining my Escape running well and safe for the road. I appreciate his work and his honesty and integrity. Thanks! read more

I've taken my car to Motorman twice, and both times I've come away very pleased with the work they've done and the price they've charged. The first time I came in, my car was completely non-functional, and had been for some time. I'd gotten a bad diagnosis from Ferguson's on Hart Lane that my engine needed to be rebuilt, as well as a ridiculously high price quote on rebuilding it, so on the suggestion of a friend, had my car towed to Motorman's shop for a second opinion/price quote. Turns out Ferguson's had completely mis-diagnosed the problem, and the only issue I had was a blown head gasket. Motorman got my car fixed up, got it state inspected, and knocked out a few other minor problems I had for a very reasonable price. The second time I took it in, I needed to have some warning light issues fixed so I could get my wheels inspected again. The day I dropped it off they had the problems diagnosed, and my Mustang was repaired and ready to be picked up the next day. John the Motorman is an honest and fair mechanic, and has always gone out of his way to be polite and friendly when dealing with me. He is more than happy to explain things in regular english if you're not mechanically inclined. They've got my business and every recommendation I can give. read more

The last time I changed my wife's oil I stripped the oil plug fairly badly, making it impossible for me to remove. Oil change due and brakes squeaking, I took the car to John. He explained that by using my 12-point socket I was stripping the head, that I should be using a six-point socket instead. Then he went back into his shop and came back with one which he said he had extra and gave it to me! So that I could change my own oil without needing him for it! He also let me know that only the rear brakes needed replacing, I still had 50% wear left on the front. Service like this is why I take our cars to John at Motorman. read more

I was buying a car from craigslist and took it by here Friday afternoon. I was unable to meet John's schedule (traffic and me underestimating the distance from the seller to the garage). He couldn't see it that day but reminded me of his Saturday hours. I brought it back the next morning. He thoroughly inspected the car (which should cost $100-200). Because I brought it BACK, he refused to let me pay him more than $20 (I offered $50 and he scoffed). John is grumpy, blunt, and honest/direct to the point of rudeness. He is also kind and cares greatly about his customers and his duty to them. This is exactly what I want in a mechanic. If you wanted to know, the car was about a month away from needing a brake job and low on coolant. He knew I lived far away and he wouldn't get paid for the work the car needed. He wanted to make sure I knew how to pick a good mechanic to do that work for me. He undercharged me because he felt bad for inconveniencing me. I would trust his pricing to be at least fair in other matters. Also, I bought the car. :) read more

John AKA MotorMan was a pleasure to work with. He exceeded my expectations when he worked on my jeep. Instead of just giving me the run around, he took the time to explain the problem. I had an ongoing issue with the performance of my vehicle for the past 2 years that other mechanics and dealerships were not able to fix for me. After replacing a couple of parts, John fixed the problem. I had my jeep back faster than I thought I would and haven't had any problems since I took it in. I highly recommend this shop and will continue to go to see John with any further vehicle problems or questions. read more

I had a great experience with MotorMan. I took my vehicle to Tuffy's on 620 to get an inspection. They let me know my rack and pinion needed replacing (as well as a power steering flush). We took the vehicle to MotorMan to get a second opinion. MotorMan let me know we only needed the rack boots replaced (not the entire rack and pinion). This difference saved me about $800. I will definitely take my business back to MotorMan. read more

This place aint economical. If you are in a hurry like me to get your car fixed like I was he is okay. He overcharged me by $200 ( charged about $50 more for the part ) and about $150 more for labor. I know he needs to make money. Did I say this place isnt economical ? He did a decent job though. I may have saved about $20 by not visiting the dealer . But hey the dealership has nice chairs, cookies and coffee. They even drop you off in their shuttle. read more

Since I'm really not a car guy, it's really important for me to find someone I can trust. John aka the motorman is definitely someone I can trust. BUT....If is you're first time there, be aware!!!! John is very different!! He's a straight shooter... Hate to say that I had my doubts when I met him. I was thinking.."man! He's so rude! No small talks..."then, I realized.. That's just him. I have brought 4 cars to him since....He always does wonderful jobs. I definitely recommend his place for car troubles. Once again, John is very SPECIAL, but he's honest!!! In my book, I can't ask for more when it comes to the cars my family are depended on. read more

This review is more of testament to the character of the owner, John Martin. Mr. Martin has impressed me in a world full of people that don't. The man has honor. I would not doubt his honesty or integrity. If you are looking for an honest shop to deal with, you will find it here. He goes above and beyond. Even when he cannot afford to. He puts the best interests of others before his own. That is a very rare thing in today's world. read more

(THIS PLACE STEALS WTF THEY WANT FROM YOUR CAR APPERENTLY)¡?¡?¡? Just wow.... Took my car in to get the breaks fixed! When he called and told me the price I told him to go ahead cause it needs to be done regardless right... Anyways called husband and told him what was up converstation lasted maybe 60sec probably a lil more but not by much. Immediately called them back and said never mind. Owner got a lil child like & said something like we already started taking it apart but okay... Car was there waiting for me for maybe 4 hrs when we went to do the breaks ourselves I realized my flashlight was gone Bullsh**... So unprofessional and rude and still made me pay 20 bucks which I thought was fair till I realized someone stole a flashlight worth hella more. Good luck with that Karma u just asked for for stealing ...especially from me!!! Ur a terrible f***** human being!¿!¿!¿! Buy ur own badass flashlight if u want one lil thievin b.....????? read more

I have been going to the Motorman for years. He has kept all of my 2001 vehicles running (chevy suburban, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima). Great labor rate, will work with you on drop off/pick up. I value highly my relationship with the owner, he is a hard working, honest man. read more

Very honest and reliable mechanic. I have taken my vehicle in for repair twice. Each time, my car was fixed and ready for me to pick up the same day. read more

I am so impressed with this auto repair shop! Motorman is the most fair and honest mechanic I have met in Texas and have been so impressed with his service!!!!! Thanks Motorman! You will have our auto business! read more

FINALLY! An honest mechanic who knows what he's doing. John is a straight - shooting automotive genius who actually has integrity and charges reasonable rates for repairs...a near impossible combination to find these days. I was referred to him by a friend who swears by him and I see why! took a Saturn to him which was leaking exhaust into the interior and he turned it around in a day or two (cheaply) - it ran like a dream! That's been months ago now and it still runs great. He also quoted me lower $ than all other shops for a oil leak. I can't say enough good things about this man! read more

Best mechanic in Austin! Goes out of his way to make sure your car is fixed right and save you money!

The service was impeccable! I was helped immediately. I took my car in to be checked for a coolant problem. My car was taken in, examined, repaired, and returned in the same day. I know all car trouble cannot be resolved this quickly, but I was amazed at the rate of the service, as well as, the customer service. I felt comfortable leaving my car there, and I will definitely return if I should ever need maintenance or repairs on my car again. Fast, excellent service. read more