Before I sing my high praises about RC Auto and Dale, I must disclose that I only came across this small business due to Discount Tire's fault. After installing a brand new set of tires on my vehicle, one of my lug studs was stripped and broken off clean and I was referred to RC Auto at their expense to handle the issue. That experience of its own can be a separate review. NOW, my praise for RC Auto... what a contrast in customer service! As a small business owner, I understand that Dale needed the proper documentation from Discount Tire to assure him that he would be compensated for the repair. Once that was settled, Dale was prompt in repairing the broken stud and had my vehicle waiting ready to go. I know both him and his team work hard and even more so with this recent heatwave. I cannot give enough appreciation for his understanding and overall candor in the experience. I will be returning to his shop in the future for any repairs/tune ups that come! 12/10 stars! read more

I just replaced my rear tires and the tire shop suggested the alignment be checked out because of the uneven tire thread wear. They recommend RC Auto & Smog to me. So I brought my car there afterwards and overall I think they did a good job. They were able to take me in right away, without an appointment, which is a plus! Couple things made this experience (review) a 3-star instead of higher. First, the quote I got over the phone was different the one given when I arrived. The store explained I have a different type of suspension, which I can understand the price increase. However, I already provided the car model and year over the phone, it would be much nicer if they could quote me correctly upfront. Second, if they can provide a report to customer, showing the difference they made, between before and after alignment, that would make their work standout. Instead I only got a verbal run down when I asked about it. Hope RC Auto will take feedbacks positively. They also do a lot of other auto works, so people can check them out if they are in Visita. read more

Took my truck there for alignment after I got it back they said it stilled pulled and it needed balancing again took it back to discount they rebalanced and it still pulled called them back and asked if i could bring it back I think his name is Dale said his tech did the job and it wasn't them and if i bring it back there going to charge me again! Wow only two days passed and he wasn't going to fix it right so I took it to RPM performance they were $40 cheaper and my truck drives straight as a arrow now! Not ever gonna recommend them or go back! read more

Fixed broken wheel stud on Subaru Outback that was caused by technicians at Discount Tire ( covered repair costs). Great customer service by Dale and excellent work. read more

I had repairs done on my car in March and they didn't properly diagnose my vehicle but and had to go back to have it repaired twice, to the tune of $2500 to replace an air pump. Engine light came on last week and I tried to call RC Auto several times and left messages and nobody answers their phone or calls back, or they see my number and don't want me as customer anymore but, nonetheless, they are unprofessional RC Auto replaced an air pump but didn't tighten the hoses and all are cracked and will cost $1000 based on a diagnostic from Cornerstone Auto in Oceanside. I am planning to file a small claim and report their business practices to DCA. Avoid this place unless you want to don't mind taking days off from work, endure dayslong wait times and being out over $2000. read more

Fast service! Got my car back before I could even clock out of work. Took care of my problem easily, diagnosed it within minutes, brakes,rotors & wheel bearings. Very professional. Fair price too. Very reasonable . These guys know what they're doing read more

RC Auto & Smog - New Rotors. Brakes. Wheel bearings . - Smog Check Stations Near Me - Vista, California

I had the best experience ive ever had with an auto place. I had some bodywork done and a little maintenance. They were so incredibly honest and called me constantly! Call me constantly with updates. I've never had that experience before ever. There was no question of when can I pick up my car, how much is it going to cost, etc. They answered every question before I could even ask it, and on top of that, they went out of their way to save me money. Honestly, couldn't be happier and couldn't recommend them higher. Would never go anywhere else. read more

The whole team at RC is amazing. The owner is a total pro and a genuinely good person. He has hired honest, capable, kind mechanics who do their job correctly and thoroughly the first time. It's no wonder they have been open for decades with 5 stars all around! I had shotty work done by a previous mechanic and the team here was able to troubleshoot and fix all of the issues by getting creative and not giving up. They also work with the CAP program for low income which helped pay for the necessary repairs in order to smog my car. They truly care about their customers here. I've never experienced anything like it. When you find a trustworthy mechanic who knows what to do in each situation, charges more than fair prices, and is a kind Christian at that, you keep em'!! I will not go anywhere else for my car again! Thank you to the entire team at RC Auto!! read more

Robert & Dale are top notch people. Easy to deal with, trustworthy, & reliable. All 4 of my cars are always running great because of RC Auto & Smog! Thank you, Guy McCord read more

Dale, the manager, And Rob the owner are the most honest and trustworthy individuals I have ever worked with when it comes to auto service and repair They did an awesome job, very reasonable price and with an awesome customer friendly focus. We have brought all our vehicles here from trucks to sports cars and they have always been able to repair and service them all - I would recommend them to anyone !! read more

I've been taking 03 Jetta here for 6 years! Robert and his crew always do honorable work on my car no matter what the issue is.

Came here in need of a smog test, and the experience was great. I was greeted right away and met with smiles and professionalism. As a woman doing this kind of stuff I'm not always sure what to expect. I didn't have any DMV paperwork but was able to complete the smog without it. Very pleased and would recommend this spot. Interested in general vehicle maintenance and repair work. read more

I think they're pretty good at diagnosing problems, and their overall pricing is cheaper than a service department, but the technicians seem to like to flush fluids. They cleaned out the power steering system, coolant, transmission and brake fluids (this last one RC Auto did twice in two months). Maybe some vehicles' liquids do become dirty in two months, but many experts say to change brake fluid every three years, and transmission fluid lasts much longer than that. I had just changed -- but not flushed -- the transmission fluid this year. I thought that a simple drain-and-refill is better than "cleaning" flushes, which can lodge debris in the wrong places. Why did I take my car in twice during a short span of time? The shop checked if I had an oil leak the first time but found nothing serious. Then it was apparent in my garage that something was wrong, so I went back. Nice staff in a friendly shop that makes sure to keep you updated, but I waited days to get my car back because they are thorough. They did save me money in some areas, but all those flushes add up. read more

Its far too easy in today's world to leave a negative review about a business for almost any reason, hurting the on line reputation of the business. So often people won't pick up the phone to speak with management when expectations weren't met. Why not give that business the chance to "make it right" and then see if they really do deserve the negativity a bad review promotes My family has been bringing our vehicles to Robert at RC Auto for over 25 years now. They have always been fair with us. You can tell that they repair cats honestly. Robert and his staff are all ASE certified technicians. They know what they are doing. When one of our cars is there, they always look the car over and advise us if a problem is developing that needs immediate attention, or if it's a minor thing that can wait for a while. We've never gotten the hard sell, and they have always taken the time to explain a problem or service until we completely understand what's going on with our car. The facility is small. Parking is limited and they are always busy so you may have to prepare yourself for being without a car for a couple of days while yours is on the mend. read more

Can't say enough about this shop! Robert and Dale are fantastic in making you feel like your vehicle is in great hands. I have been for years trying to find a reliable mechanic I could trust and I've finally found them. They helped with my brakes and alignment and even helped me out when the tire shop broke off lug nuts and I was in a bind to get my car looked at. They both go above and beyond and every customer I see here including myself leave happy. Stand up guys this is the kind of business you can trust. read more

Ive had nothing but good experiences when coming here for smog and any other repairs needed. Robert is very honest and very patient when explaining things to me. I highly recommend giving him a chance. read more

Ok, wow, what a summer. After more than a half dozen mechanics attempted to diagnose (& in some cases wrongfully repair) an ongoing issue w/ my 1987 campervan, the universe finally led me to Robert & Joe & the rest of the guys at RC Auto. Robert went waaay above and beyond to finally figure out that, among other things, the main issue was that the timing chain needed to be replaced. To say he was determined to diagnose this thing that literally No One else could figure out, is an understatement & his pricing was more than fair. These guys saved my life, I'm not kidding. The van is also my house so I was stuck in California until it got figured out. I'm happy to say once the repairs were made, I exited CA & it drove like a champ to Arizona. These guys are my hero's. Wish I could leave them 10 stars. Auto Angels and I can't thank them enough. read more

Wanting the "mechanic" that you go to for all your auto needs...you know that need. This auto shop goes above and beyond to make sure that your vehicle is fixed and running well. I have been taking my 2002 diesel f250 here since 2011. Everything from installing water pumps to regular maintenance. They've helped out my good friend when he was in a time crunch for his business and stayed past closing hours to ensure he made it to his event. Recently, I bought a 50 year old camper and they installed it. It took a lot of work, but they pulled it off. If you're seeking an excellent, trustworthy auto shop. Go here. read more

RC Auto & Smog - Robert C. owns and operated RC Auto in Vista. - Smog Check Stations Near Me - Vista, California

I knew based on my check engine light that I was going to fail my biannual smog test but wasn't sure where to take it or who to trust. Based on a refferal from a local mechanic I brought my truck in and spoke with Matt. He explained the consumer assistance program and gave me some great advice to get my application processed faster. A week later I was approved and back in their shop with all the repairs completed for $20 out of pocket. Their knowledge in the auto and smog business is beyond that of any place I have been and am glad to have found such a trustworthy and reliable location to take my vehicle. I reccomend coming in and checking it out. Their quotes and follow up are consistent and accurate which is important for anyone who wants to preserve the integrity of their service and car. read more

Very reasonable rates, honest service and locally owned. I was vacationing here from Tucson, AZ and I just had my A/C unit replaced before the trip in my Chrysler Town and Country mini van. After 2 days, it wasn't blow cold air anymore. I was referred to RC Auto from another local mechanic. There must of been 15 other cars there but they were able to fit me in and fix the problem at the quoted price. Communication on keeping me updated was spot on. Mat and all the service techs were incredible. If I ever need auto service while visiting here again - this is the ONLY place I would go to. Highly recommended! read more

I Have been and will continue to use RC Auto & Smog for all in any vehicle I may own. The owner is honest and has integrity and will do everything in his power to keep you in budget while still maintaining your car I recommend RC Auto And Smog highly! They go the extra mile... read more

These guys are amazing! My car got a new starter installed in record time! They have lifetime customer in me. I have been coming here for 3 years and they never disappoint! read more

RC smog is honest, trustworthy, with fair pricing, and excellent customer service You can tell that everyone at RC smog takes pride in their work. Everyone I came in contact with was very easy to talk to and seem happy to help with any questions or concerns. I now have been a repeat customer and they have been 100% in their professionalism. I would recommend RC smog to my friends and family without hesistation. read more

Called 10 minutes before and they let me bring my car down right away. This is my second time here with a great experience so I felt the need to give them a good review. The first time, I brought in an old truck, not knowing if it would pass or not. They got it to pass no problem. The second time I brought in my 2009 Mazda 3 and it didn't have a problem either. Thank you RC! read more

RC Auto & Smog - Straightforward and fair pricing. Picture take 02.17.2017. - Smog Check Stations Near Me - Vista, California

I've taken two cars in here for smog checks. The employees are friendly, and from just sitting in the lobby overhearing conversations with long-time customers, well loved and trusted on all kinds of repairs and maintenance. read more

Got my car's smog here. Fast, efficient, and great customer service. The shop was clean and everyone I spoke to was extremely friendly. Glad I was recommended to go here, and I will definitely be a return customer. read more

Robert, owner of RC Auto, is a smart, customer-focused mechanic! He is easy to talk to, patient, explains everything in a straightforward manner. He is also very clever with workarounds if you're on a budget but need to get your car on the road! My family and I have been bringing our cars to him for over 20 years. Great service! read more

This is a local gem. Robert, the owner is a honest businessman and he runs a great shop with great techs. He's done amazing work for me since I moved to Vista many years ago. I highly recommend his repair center to you. Also, he performs advanced smog services ... one of a very few in the area. read more

Robert has always done good work and stands behind all that he does ...professional mechanical abilities and great service....top of the line tools and equipment to make the job excellent read more

Reasonable rates, honest service. Locally owned, these guys were able to fit us in to replace an ignition coil. There were several other cars there being worked on when I picked mine up. Would use again. Referred to us by the mechanic who works on my husband's GMC. read more

Robert and his team have taken care of our fleet for a couple of years. They are always upfront and honest with repairs needed, have made recommendations on repair that can wait a bit longer. When smog is required, they take care of our cars as quickly and painless as possible. Thanks RC Auto read more

Robert is a local business owner. He runs an honest auto shop with quality work and reasonable prices. I can't say enough positive things about this repair shop. I have taken several cars here for repair over many years and always receive 110% from RC Auto read more

Honest, quick, good prices. A shop you can trust. Robert knows his stuff, He has had no problem fixing anything I roll into his shop... HIGHLY RECOMMENDED !!!!! read more

Very fast and efficient. Robert and his crew will always help you with what you need and only recommend things that are needed. He is an awesome mechanic with an awesome crew. They can help you with anything from an oil change to a head gasket replacement and everything in between on all makes and models. Robert is the best in San Diego By far!! read more

Robert and Matt have been nothing but helpful and honest over the past couple of years. I've had my cars in here multiple times. Their service is very good. Their prices have been very fair. The repairs have always been good. They've always gone the extra mile for me and I can't thank them enough. I highly recommend bringing your car here. I recently moved away and didn't appreciate what I had here until I had to go try and find a new mechanic. read more

Went to a test-only smog place today, All Autos Smog - highly recommended. Pass the fuel evap test no problem. RC Auto & Smog is either incompetent or dishonest. read more

Have had two autos smogged here for several years. They are the best. With appointment, the service is quick, professional and pleasant! I highly recommend R C. read more

Thank you Mat and your team of experts. My 1986 El Camino just came home from your shop. What a difference on the ride home. The carburetor work that you did seems to be spot on. What is truly amazing is that you stayed within the quoted price. I know El C fought you and you persevered. Thank you for be persistent and true to your quote. read more

Very easy to talk to over the phone. Matt was very informative and he seemed to be honest. Gave me an estimate and stuck with it, even with a few extra repairs. I did notice there was a discrepancy on the pricing of parts when going over the receipt, It looks like I was charged more and the math didn't add up. There is a difference of about $30, but haven't checked back with them yet...Overall, a very positive experience. I will definitely use them again if I need my car repaired. Its nice to find a good quality, honestly priced repair shop! read more

I don't even want to give them 1 star. The car I took in PASSED emissions and functional test but failed a visual for a cracked evap hose. They recommended I have them repair this for $50 which I agreed to. They retested the car and it failed. When I complained Matt told me it was MY choice to agree to the repair. He also said that for another charge of $91 he could diagnose the problem. DO NOT GET YOUR CAR SMOGGED HERE. I FOUND THEM TO BE DISHONEST. read more