After having brought my 1972 FJ40 with a 350 conversion to many highly rated shops to no avail, we found Pittman Automotive. David called us personally to ascertain if he was a good fit based on our specific situation. He thoughtfully gave a rundown of his hypothesis, a clear plan to narrow the focus and a thorough explanation for each of the various scenarios. He communicated at every turn and was very accessible. Moreover, he was patient with our questions and willing to learn himself. Ultimately, we had a custom camshaft and lifters made and installed in what seems like no time at all, and the results are extraordinary. Others may say they have a great mechanic, but I assure you that David tops them. Not only is he a studied expert in mechanics, but he is kind, humble and a great communicator. As others have said, he went above and beyond our immediate issue to set us up with the various PNW specialists for each aspect of our classic vehicle in need of future repair. I cannot understate the great experience we had. Hopefully we don't need to see David too soon, but if we did I would be happy to bring him my business, and hope that you do too. read more

Pittman Automotive Service - New custom camshaft on this baby. - Auto Repair Near Me - Seattle, Washington

I first hired Pittman Automotive to do the starter on my E36 BMW 318ti - for those of you who know the car, doing the starter is a huge PITA, which David took care of quickly, inexpensively, and correctly. More recently, I ran into problems restoring a beloved classic pickup truck that's been in my family since I was a kid. David and Jim determined that somebody had previously sold me the wrong clutch, and Jim even went so far as to pick up the correct parts from the local dealer on his way to work the next morning. The day after that, I had the truck back on the road, and drove it to Leavenworth and back during the 2019 "snowpocalypse" with no problems at all. Although I'm the type of person who mostly works on their own cars, Pittman has become my go-to for any job I can't (or don't have time) to do myself. It's been a positive learning experience for me every time. read more

Dave is a truly gifted mechanic. He had my 1963 Scout (which had been sitting in a barn for years) in great shape for a very modest price. He will track down parts or craftsmen and explain what you need to keep your classic in shape and running. Highly recommend. read more

Pittman Automotive was recommended to me by a local, and has become my go-to mechanic. David and Jim have worked on four cars of mine - including my classic car, and they have always exceeded my expectations. I would recommend their services to a friend. read more

I'll make this review short and sweet: Dave is the last honest auto mechanic in Seattle! His no frills workshop and calm demeanor remind one of days gone by, and his prices are appropriate (as opposed to charging you up the ying-yang unnecessarily). One example: At 60k miles I figured I should have the timing belt on my KIA changed. I called the KIA dealer in Shoreline and they told me it would cost around $1500.00 for parts and labor. Then I called Dave, and after researching which parts he would need, he called me back and told me the total would be about $500.00. I took the car into his shop in the morning, and drove it home in the afternoon. I'm actually a little hesitant to post this review because I consider Dave "my little secret", but I suppose you're entitled to experience what it's like to not feel screwed while getting your auto repaired too. read more

A mechanic had suggested several repairs/maintenance items for my car. One of my co-workers referred me to Dave, whom he'd been taking his car to for years. I was ready to perform all the repairs on my car and Dave actually told me that several of them weren't necessary (some of the parts "slightly worn" but still in fine shape). It's AMAZING to meet an honest mechanic (or anyone for that matter) that isn't simply trying to maximize their profits. I have now been back twice to deal with Dave and have referred my brother-in-law and a friend there also. I can't speak highly enough about him - truly a class act! read more

Gotta add my name to the list of very happy customers. I was referred here by my hairstylist, who's been bringing his cars to Dave for a couple decades. While I haven't done any car-repair work since high school, I did take an automechanics class at one point. I credit this with my ability to sense when a mechanic is doing his best to take me for a ride and/or is condescending. You will get NONE of that at this place. Dave is always courteous, will tell you what's going on without talking to you like an idiot, and most importantly: will fix your car for a fair price. I wish he was closer to where I live--I'd get everything done here! It's worth the trouble, though, to come here whenever I need a repair or a big tune-up. Polite, efficient, competent, fair prices. I wish all car mechanics were this awesome! Thank you, Dave! read more

Incredibly disappointed with Davids service. I was hoping for an honest mechanic who would give me a fair price. Instead, my car sat at his shop for 3 times the amount I expected (almost 2 and a half weeks), I was charged over $50 for an oil change (and he didn't even replace all the fluids), and an outrageous amount to fix a wheel axel. What's more, I had brought after market lights to replace the old that he said he wasn't able to fit. He didn't even replace the old lights well-one is setting loose. I also found a dirty rag under my hood. I'm so frustrated I want to demand a refund, or to have these things corrected but I would never trust David with my vehicle again. DO NOT GO HERE. read more

My truck broke down right behind Century Link Field, right after a Mariners day game. The perfect storm, as it took me 40 minutes to drive 2.5 miles. I had my truck towed to the closet mechanic with the highest rating on YELP! And Pittman Automotive Service pulled though and fixed my truck in nearly 1 business day. Dave was an honest mechanic with a solid no-nonsense price. There was hiccup on pickup time (and the truck was not ready as anticipated), which I was going to drop him to 4 stars, but he gave me a discount, so that put him back to 5 stars!! read more

Great service from David at Pittman Auto. Was referred to him by a friend - brought my SUV in for shock/struts repair. While I had a frustrating time communicating with the 3rd party warranty/insurance company, David was very responsive, supportive and friendly through the process. Based on my research, I felt his repair prices were very fair, if not great! Thanks again. read more

We've had Dave repair our cars (Fords, Mazdas, Toyotas) for many years. He's an upstanding, old school mechanic that really knows his stuff and gives an honest appraisal of what is going on with your vehicle and a reasonable price to take care of it. What I really appreciate is that he tells me what is needed to keep my car running, not what just makes him a buck. His shop is really convenient, easy to drop off cars that need work and get on with my day via transit from his location. read more

Great guy!!! Had my car towed here before they opened and left a message so I could explain why it was there. He immediately gave me what I needed to know and although he doesn't do what I was needing, he directed me to the right place and got me back to working with no charge once I brought what was needed. Super nice and helpful!! read more

Dave at Pittman Automotive (in SoDo) has been my mechanic for years--he's proved himself trustworthy and dependable every time. He does quality work for a price that's reasonable. Seriously, this mechanic is gold. I repeatedly thank my friend for her referral. I find it a joy to pay Dave for my car repairs because I value and trust his honesty and expertise. Dave treats his customers with utmost respect and offers realistic options. Today, Dave saved me $1,000. And it's not the first time. (two examples below) This morning I spotted a coolant leak when I was in North Seattle. I went to nearby "Affordable" Tire and Brakes in the U-District. Unfortunately, I wasted $43 on their diagnosis. "Affordable" inspected my car's coolant leak and reported over $1,000 of repair work required to drive my car safely. Luckily, I reached Dave this afternoon before "Affordable" started any work on my car. Dave advised it costs $50-$100 to fix the coolant leak, my car's immediate concern. Affordable quoted their emergency fix being over $200. So, I had my car towed to Dave at Pittman Automotive this afternoon. (go Pemco!) Dave at Pittman Automotive fixed my coolant leak for $49 in less than half an hour. I was in Spokane when Dave's free advise saved me another small fortune. My car had slid on some ice and a tire dealer quoted $400+ required before I could return to Seattle. I called Dave--he suggested I drive back to Seattle for a second opinion. As Dave predicted, I made it safely to Seattle and took my car to my trusted Les Schwab location in SoDo on 4th ave S. They fixed my slightly bent rim for free. Dave's free phone consultation saved me more than $400, plus a lost day/hotel charge had I stayed in Spokane to wait for unnecessary parts. In short, my gratitude to Dave at Pittman Automotive for being my trustworthy mechanic. read more

I have taken three sets of cars (Subaru, Dodge Dart, Mini Cooper) to David over the last ten years, and have always been treated really well. He's knowledgable and friendly, bringing out the parts to show me what was broken or rubbing the wrong way after he did the fix. I've found his pricing to me more than reasonable, and much appreciated. After selling my 1966 Dodge Dart (which he helped to lovingly maintain!), I didn't go to David because of having a brand new MINI. But when that car's transmission basically broke--and the dealership wanted to charge me $9k for the repair on a car with less than 50k miles!--David was the first person I called, and he gave me advice through that sticky situation (at no charge). Most recently, I brought my car to him for a second opinion after a potentially $3k repair. He diagnosed exactly what they had said--for $700, rather than the amount they were prepared to charge, having thrown in the kitchen sink of everything they could find to fix to juice the bill. David, instead, breaks down every labor and parts cost, and makes you feel in control of the situation by calling to confirm anything new he finds that needs a fix. One of the things that I like about Pittman's is that it's in the SODO, not fancy, not a lot of overhead. Just his shop and his sweet dog, Comet. It feels like the real deal, and it just feels like such a relief to have a trustworthy mechanic who will do right by my cars, that I wanted to spread the good word. read more

As many others have said, he's a straight-shooter. Our truck had some sensor issues (common for a 2007 Dodge Ram) that automatically failed it for emission testing. Dave at Pittman's was the only garage after three other tries that actually focused on evaluating what was wrong. Every other place kept saying "You bring in the truck, we 'analyze' the problem for $150, give you the paper saying so, and you get the emission waiver." What crazy people we must be to actually want to know why it was failing (i.e., was there an actual emission problem?) and decide whether or not to fix it. Dave's "analysis" cost us $50. We decided to fix the problem triggering the test failure for another $110. So, for ~$10 more we actually fixed the problem. read more

Flew to Seattle to purchase an older truck, Dave was referred by a friend and saw me on short notice to do an inspection and some minor repairs. He did a excellent job, was kind, honest, and was provided me with an enjoyable and educational experience. Spending some time in his shop and watching him work was a pleasure. I would highly recommend him as a mechanic! read more

Dave is a great mechanic................his place is right downtown by Pike Place market and its tough to get in, but if you can...........this is the place to get your car worked on in the GReater Seattle area. Top notch service and he stands by his work. read more

We have used Dave at Pittman's Automotive for repairs on our service trucks for many years and he has always been reliable and fair. read more

Pittman Automotive Service - David Eames, Owner - Auto Repair Near Me - Seattle, Washington

I've used Pittman Automotive many times through the years and he has saved me a lot of money from overpriced dealership estimates.

I wrote a review back in 2011, but it doesn't show up - so I'm writing another one! I can't say enough good stuff about Dave. I have an OLD car - so I call him a lot with silly questions, and he is always happy to oblige, often helping me figure something out over the phone and refusing payment. I NEVER feel like I am being over charged or having unnecessary work done. He knows his stuff and he's nice and fair and honest. What more could you want? read more

Dave is a great, honest mechanic! I was recommended to Pittman Auto by a friend for a second opinion after Hilltop Service Station on 15th Ave quoted me $900 to get my brakes fixed. Hilltop told me that my calipers had malfunctioned and I needed all new brake parts, but Dave said there was no such malfunction and my rotors and brake pads were just worn down from normal wear and tear. Brakes and a few other adjustments and my bill was under $400, a far cry from the $900 Hilltop quoted me!! My car was done within a few hours and is now running great! read more

David has helped me out more than he knows hes an honest working man and this review is the least i can do for him. My name is Tyler Wood and I'm am currently in the coast guard stationed in downtown Seattle. Being in the military it hard to find mechanics who are great because most know they will never see you again and only care about the money. I drive a 1995 jeep wrangler and when i got my vehicle shipped to Seattle it was giving me trouble he was the closest shop with good reviews so i took a chance. It was well worth it my jeep has had alot of work done in his shop and runs like a dream now. David worked with me while i was deployed to get the necessary repairs done so when i got home from being out at sea i would have something to drive. If he cant do the job he'll tell you instead of bullshitting his way through it i highly recommend this shop to all the Seattle area. He's a great man with a great shop. read more

My son lives in Seattle and drives an older car. It broke down on him and he didn't have transportation. I flew to Seattle to help him out. Before the trip, I researched mechanics near where the car was parked. Pittman Automotive was one of the shops near the car but I didn't choose it because it appeared to cater to "classic cars". When I got to Seattle I happen to drive past Pittman's and decided to stop in, just to get information about getting cars towed, etc. I talked to David Eames, the owner, and he agreed to look at the car. That was a Godsend since I didn't have a clue where to take it. I asked, and he recommended a reliable/reasonable towing company. We had the car towed. Within a day, David called us. The bad news is that the engine was shot. Not worth fixing. I went back to pay for his diagnostic work and he wouldn't take anything for it. He said it hadn't taken much time and that he understood the predicament my son was in. I asked, and he also offered suggestions on getting rid of the car and possibilities of find a new, lower priced car. All in all, I couldn't have found a better, more honest mechanic. He has apparently spent his life working on cars (and does know the older ones) but works on all makes and models. Based on my experiences, If you want a highly honest and ethical mechanic, and one that I have no doubt does excellent work, I would recommend Pittman Automotive. read more

We have been using Dave to repair our Company Vans for 5 years. He is honest and reasonable. He gets our work done quickly and has never tried to sell us anything we don't really need. I have grown dependent on Dave to keep our small fleet running well and he delivers. There are a lot of shops that could take some lessons from Dave on how to treat customers and their cars. read more

I drive a '99 Durango. The tranny and motor are solid but it has the normal wear and tear of a 15 year old vehicle. I've had Dave at Pittman work on this ride for a number of different issues and he has never been disappointed. Prices are fair and the work is done correctly. And most importantly, he's an honest mechanic. I've referred a few customers over to Dave and I'll be a customer for life! Anyone who needs some work done, I recommend going to Pittman Auto. read more

Truly one of the best "old-school" diagnosticians I have ever encountered. Computers usually cannot diagnose "weird noises", but this guy can. I suspect this only comes from experience. One time I had a really weird electrical issue. I watched him spend over an hour trying to find it but it would not replicate so I was out of luck. I was stunned when he would not accept any payment because "he didn't fix anything". My kind of mechanic. read more

I just needed to check my coolant level which is fairly simple and they were super helpful even at noon on a business day! Dave filled it up for me and gave me some tips on what to look out for, great customer service is hard to find! read more

I'm sorry that I can't concur with the other five star reviews that Mr. Pittman has received from others. Originally, I thought that it would go that way, but it surely didn't. I live in Southern California, and was negotiating on the purchase of a Gold Moonmist 1979 Lincoln Mark V that is located in Issaquah, Washington. The car is listed on Craig's List for $10,000. I had the seller take the car to Evergreen Ford and paid them to check out the car for me. Unfortunately it came out of there with a terrible bill of health stating a lot of mechanical and safety problems. The seller later told me that he would take the car to a friend of his fathers and have these problems repaired. This facility was Pittman Automotive. I spoke to Mr. Pittman on several occasions about the repairs he was doing. He seemed to be very straight with me. Through my experience, I thought that he was charging the seller at least double as to what the job should cost, considering the cost of the parts and the approximate time involved at around $100/hour. But that was between him and the seller. Since I have to get the car smogged in California, I was a little concerned when I asked Mr. Pittman about the condition of the catalytic converters and emission control equipment. He mentioned that there weren't any catalytic converters. I told him where they were supposed to be and to please look again. He found them. I understand that at this point he had a business relationship primarily with the seller and not me. I the meantime the seller assured me that this car had documented 29,000 original miles, was never in rain, and was probably the finest example in the country. On his confirmation of the condition and that everything else worked "perfectly" on the car I purchased an airline ticket to Seattle with the full intent on purchasing the car and heading back to California with it that day. Mr. Pittman assured me that he felt comfortable that the car should be totally reliable and safe, except the tires were in question. Based on his confidence, I consulted with him about at least replacing the fuel pump, filter, rubber fuel lines, heater hoses, and put some spare belts in the trunk for me. Even though I thought that he was high, it was still cheap insurance for me to get home. When I arrived at his shop and saw the car, I was blown away at how the condition of the car was misrepresented to me. The paint was terrible, patches of rust patch repair on the body, major evidence of years of neglect, interior showed major discoloration and neglect. The sunroof would barely open then not close. At this point I was ready to totally renegotiate my deal or go home. Then I opened the hood while the engine was running and smelled a strong odor of gasoline. Mr. Pittman told me that this was normal. I guess he thought that I was stupid. I now knew that I could not trust Mr. Pittman. I was done with him and the seller. There was no use renegotiating, as the car would not only not pass smog, but was unsafe to drive. It could have easily ignited on my way home. Even though Mr. Pittman now had a fiduciary responsibility to me along with the seller. He should have been straight with me. I don't even know if he got permission to work on this other person's car on my behalf. I think he really got himself in a box dealing with these people in the first place, but that's not my problem. In what I contracted him to do, I think I was taken advantage of not only by the seller, but Mr. Pittman. I set boundaries before I came up there and didn't get what I paid for. By the way Mr. Pittman took a few bucks off of the bill as a parts discount, for parts that were grossly overpriced in the first price. I don't know who his supplier is, but the most expensive prices that I could find on the internet were about 1/3rd. of his. He said that he felt bad for the way it worked out, therefore was giving me a little discount. I didn't want to argue or debate, just get out of there. I still never got a refund for the extra belts that were never installed either." read more