Posting on behalf of my partner: "I am in the midst of a cross-country road trip in a very old Subaru (230k miles), which had its check engine light come on as I approached the San Diego area. I found Sawaya Automotive online and brought the car in. I could immediately tell that I had made a good choice. The owner Tony greeted me in the parking lot and was incredibly friendly and helpful throughout the process. I would say my impression is that he is the most honest auto mechanic I have encountered anywhere around the US. It turned out that I had a very serious engine issue and that it was better to sell the car than get it fixed. Tony was so kind in explaining this to me in detail, and he never tried to convince me to pay for repairs that didn't make financial sense. It was not the news that I was wanting to hear, but that's not the fault of Tony or anyone else at Sawaya Automotive. If I ever need auto maintenance work again in San Diego I will definitely come back here." read more

I have exclusively been going to Tony for any of my car needs for the last 8 years. He and his team are by far the most knowledgeable mechanics, and have always provided great and reliable service. He is honest and will give you recommendations on how to keep your car in prime condition. Don't go to him if you're looking for cheap, low-quality service. If you want expert mechanic work and are looking to get the full lifespan of your car, he is your guy. Not only that, but Tony has connections all over San Diego for services other than mechanical work. He has helped me get my transmission replaced in an old Toyota Avalon, knows the best guy to get your engine steam-cleaned, and helped connect me with a center that does body-damage/painting after a collision. The reason I am just writing a review after going to him for 8 years is because I was blown-away with my last service experience with him a few days ago. I took my 2011 Toyota Camry in for it's 60,000 mile service, which he did along with replacing my rear struts (which were original). My car is now running better than it did when I bought it 2 years ago at 35,000 miles. Not only that, but he completed all the work in 1 day and didn't charge me for an additional $600 worth of work. He is truly an honest mechanic and I can't recommend him and his shop enough. I won't take my cars anywhere else. read more

Tony is a great guy. He's straight to the point, honest, and never gives you the runaround. He gave me multiple repair options, which I really appreciated. I brought my '01 4Runner and my partner's Audi S3 to Sawaya for brake work, and we were both extremely happy with the service, quality of work, and overall value. I'll definitely be coming back for future performance installs and other work. read more

I was referred to Tony by a fellow member of an online car group. Called up, he knew EXACTLY what was going on with my car, pointed me at buying OEM parts for this particular repair, and quoted me installation price. After purchasing parts, I popped into Sawaya to get the work done, they turned it around in an hour or so, and Tony basically entertained me in between handling calls and business talking about his many highly tuned and modified cars. The man has FIVE EVOs, holy crap. One each for tuned differently for different types of driving. Not only extraordinarily honest and knowledgeable, Tony is a true CAR GUY. Five stars, highly recommended. Cheers, Tony! read more

Tony and his team really know cars! They have been a great support for myself and my family for decades now. Call him if you need a diagnosis and see if you don't agree with me. This guy knows everything about every car. Get the job done right the first time. This new facility only allows them to do more for more people. Generous person, and a friend after all these years of service. read more

Tony was great. Super direct, nice and reasonable. I was having car issues and he explained everything very well and gave me great advice. Would absolutely come back. read more

THEY MOVED! NEW ADDRESS 5680 Kearny Villa Rd., San Diego, CA 92123 Tony has been my mechanic for years! LOVE the new location!! I have always received excellent service from this shop!! One of the best shops in town! read more

Sawaya Automotive - Best shop in town! Be sure to make an appointment!! - Auto Repair Near Me - San Diego, California

They took a look of the car to see if there was any issues. The inspection lasted about 15 minutes. It was quick. Recommend

Tony is one of those top mechanics that people refer their friends too. His service and value are hard to beat. If you need a real quote (as opposed to inflated ones at dealerships), he is your guy! I've been coming to him for over 7 years. He even has a new location that is convenient to find. read more

Tony is the best! He is such a kind person and I have a lot of trust in him. His prices are very reasonable. I went to valvoline in the past for oil changes and they completely ruined my oil pan. Tony fixed everything and I will be coming to him for all of my oil changes and other car maintenance needs from now on. He also installed new rear breaks for me. My Subaru is running great! read more

the best......... knows his business and stands behind his work. blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah read more

Just had my Air Conditioning diagnosed and repaired on a Dodge Diesel 2500 truck. Tony walked me through the issue and like always professionally repaired my truck. My wife and I also own a Lexus have been extremely happy with this shops service on our vehicles for over 15 years now. They have recently moved to 5680 Kearny Villa Road San Diego, CA 92123 Same great group of guys providing quality work at a value price! read more

If you need your car fixed or tuned. This is the place to do it. Honest people that work hard and do a great job. The turnover is fast and they do a great job of communicating. I've been doing businesses with these guys for over 10years and they always blow my mind with the quality of their services. Definitely value these guys. Highly recommend. read more

Sawaya Automotive - Race car, track cars and daily's, they have it all - Auto Repair Near Me - San Diego, California

I have been getting repairs done on my vehicle at Tony's Sawaya for the past three years. He is the most professional and honest mechanic i have ever done business with. His work is above reproach, and the best of quality. I count on Tony for any questions I have about my automobile. I highly recommend his shop to anyone who needs excellent auto service. Look no further, when needing outstanding car repairs. Larry B. read more

They moved nearby to 5680 Kearny Villa, doubled their working space. Steven aka Dr.Boost has saved me a ton compared to the dealer for oil changes, brakes, rotors, censors, German/porsche autos are no problem for these guys. Quality services I always trust on the track. read more

Sawaya Automotive - Evo's Japanese cars and Porsche German autos - Auto Repair Near Me - San Diego, California

Got scammed here. Owners charged me $850 for an e tune but never did anything to my car.

Been doing business with Tony Sawaya for probably 30 years now. He is simply the most knowledgable person I have ever met about cars, and now that he and his son, Stephen, are partners in the business, and now that he has a much larger and more modern facility...well...all I can say is, 'Thank you, Tony'. You guys rock! Stephen is extremely knowedgable about cars, as well. It must run in the Sawaya familiy. In fact, it does - I know. Old school/new school (both), honest, cost-effective, and quick. No matter what you are driving, these guys will fix it and will do it right, and you will leave feeling like you have somebody on your side. read more

Great shop very honest, they are all very nice and would highly recommend getting your car checked at Sawaya Automotive they will treat you like family! read more

I really appreciate the work of Tony and his mechanics. I was checking out a modified Subaru Legacy, and wanted to make sure it was in good condition. They did a pre-inspection for me. Since they are Masters of modification, I had them do the work needed for the car to be on the road and reliable. I believe they serve the tuner community and regular every day cars as well. You should check them out read more

I brought my SUV in for repairs, and I was immediately met by staff with care, concern and prompt diagnosis and plan to fix my vehicle. You can tell as soon as you walk in the door, that Tony's Lube and Tune is a family business by the tight-knit employees and friendly service. Tony's employees have been working together for a long time, making their work professional and efficient. Communication is never an issue and the prices have been extremely fair. I have since taken multiple cars to Tony's from vintage Mercedes to Ford, Toyota and Acura, as well as referred friends and family and Tony's shop has never dissappointed. read more

My car was damaged so to the flash floods recently and Tony took care of me. He's super honest and will do everything he can to work with your budget. I highly recommend Tony's...when you leave, you're family! read more

I have been going to Tony for over 15 years. He knows everything about everything including cars. From simple things like oil changes to larger repairs, he can get it done. And quickly! He's always busy which is a good sign. Everyone that goes there trusts him! Always a great experience and I'm saving a ton of money over going to the manufacturers service drive or other repair shop. High recommend Tony and his business! read more

They are so amazing!!!! My 2015 Jeep started slowing down on the freeway and started to shake. The engine light came on and my immediate thought was to take it to the dealership which was nearby. Big mistake!!! Needless to say the Jeep dealership was very rude. My BFF told me about this place so I called them. Immediately, they welcomed me as I walked in the shop. They asked me questions about what had happened and made sure that both me and my daughter was safe. I left the car for one day, they had a diagnosis of the car and got it fixed in a timely quick manner. They are so professional, they know what they are doing and Tony (the owner) is just phenomenal. I would highly recommend this place. read more

I have been a customer of Tony for almost 20 years and have referred many friends to him. He is an expert at all things automotive and has always been honest and reliable. I am so happy to have found a trustworthy professional who fully stands-by his work and has such a passion for it. The new location is fantastic! So much more space and much easier to get to. Congratulations Tony and team! You guys are the best! read more

Been going here for years. Trustworthy and well priced. Tony is a good guy and snags most of his employees from dealerships. They know what they're doing. Don't be fooled by the looks. read more

as always Tony is the best around, thank you for all your help, and congratulations on the new building

There is nobody like Tony, nobody. He's smart, he's honest, he's incredibly busy but he still takes the time to actually teach and show you what is wrong with your car. He's also an exceptional business owner because his entire staff is this way as well. The entire city knows him and that's why he can move mountains and get all the parts your car needs in record time. He's just the best. Also, his prices are the best in the city. Call ahead and make an appointment. read more

Tony was able to help me out in an emergency when I drove in from out of town and my alternator gave out. He tells you only what you need and is priced very fairly. From our brief conversation and listening to him interact with his customers, I think Tony is ethical and a good guy. I wish I lived in San Diego because I would definitely give him regular business. Thanks Tony! Maybe I'll be back to have you fix up my '99 4Runner! read more

Insane way these people do business!!! Instead of telling me they don't know what's wrong with my car they simple try to fix it without knowing the real underlining condition. So here I am the fifth time back!!! And still not fixed, I would take it somewhere else but I already paid a lot of money!!! Simply put buyer be aware!!!!!! read more

Tony isn't just a good mechanic. Tony is a great mechanic. In fact, he is the best mechanic I have ever used! I have had many cars and used many mechanics but never I have never found the level of honesty, integrity, and service you get with Tony anywhere else. He has fair prices, great service, and doesn't mess around with clients. Anyone who gives less than 5 stars probably shouldn't even have a yelp account much less a vehicle. read more

I have been going to Tony for a decade now. I have brought numerous cars to him, for different reasons. He has always been honest, straight forward and is always wanting to make sure you are satisfied with the work done to your car. I have sent family members and friends to him as well. His pricing is fair, and he always tells you your options. I will definitely continue to do business with Tony. Keep up the good work read more

Don't fall for their fake reviews like I did. After my experience with them, yes I believe this father son duo is petty enough to create fake accounts to post bogus reviews for their business. As this is not even a one star shop. They quoted me a price to remove and reinstall the engine. Once car was at their shop they tacked on another $500 for parts. They replaced engine I provided, but it was leaking coolant from a hose under the AC compressor since they used the wrong clamps for a pressurized hose. They refused to fix it and wanted to charge me the labor to correct their mistake since subaru delivered the parts directly to their shop they tried saying no warranty on customer provided parts. It wasn't until I explained to them that the hoses subaru delivered didn't come with clamps. They quickly changed their tune but left a freon leak after removing the AC compressor. They even charged me to refill the freon and replace O rings with non OEM ones which is why it was leaking. Driving away from their shop my brand new motor was mysteriously knocking and I could feel the pistons expanding in the motor. I gave them the benefit of the doubt and paid them thousands once again to remove and reinstall the warranty replacement motor. The motor had multiple leaks once again, loose bolts and belts, a disconnected hose, and now a leaking power steering pump. Even after repeatedly telling Tony to triple check their work for any leaks. As my car overheated the first time due to the coolant leak they caused. After mentioning this could void the warranty on my new motor Tony said dont worry I'll change the heat tabs if necessary so your warranty is not void, aka have someone else pay for my mistakes. I told Tony, no I did not want to commit any type of fraud. Tony has no respect for a customer's time, vehicle, or money. Take your car to a reputable shop. Search online for Dr. BOOST San Diego it's the same shop, same owners, minus the inflated reviews. These guys are lucky that I'm blessed and don't have the time or energy to sue them or worse. read more

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I know almost nothing when it comes to cars so when I have to get it serviced I am always nervous that the shop is going to try to upsell whole lot of repairs that I don't really need. Acting on the recommendation of a friend I decided to try this place when my car started making a weird squeaky noise from the rotors. I was pleasantly surprised when I was called by the technician and notified It was only and adjustment which was completed within few hours. The very inexpensive repair made an impression on me that these guys run on integrity and won't pull one over on you. read more

I was recommended to Tony by my brother-in-law Mike because I needed my car serviced and I felt I did not want or need to go to a dealership because of reasons we need not get into here. I was told by Mike I will never meet a more honest, sincere & personal mechanic / business owner. And you know he was right. Tony and his crew treated me as if I was a longtime customer already with the personal touch and respect given. I felt comfortable & trusting in 2 seconds. Needing additional suspension work done on top of the service maintenance, Tony broke down was the problems were and what was needed to fix repair with parts and what it will cost. And best of all get it done this same day. Mind you, I called him back about Noon to say yes please do - and asked if he could have it done the same day and he did not hesitate to say yes. I knew how much work would be involved. Normally the shop closes at 5, he says come back 5:30pm. Get there, the car is being test driven and I was out by 6. Everything explained, prices broken down as honest and clear as I have ever experienced. Aside from all I said to this point - The bottom line is 'how does my car perform after the said repairs right? Oh My - The engine was noticeably quieter and idling perfectly because of the maintenance service and the stability and tightness of the front suspension work was incredible. Not to sound overly corny but - I Got on I15 North and cruised back to Temecula as content and satisfied than ever before after getting my car service. Needless to say - Tony and his excellent crew have gained a customer for life. THANKS MIKE. And Thank You Tony read more

Sawaya Automotive - Auto Repair Near Me - San Diego, California

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Tony and his son helped me tremendously with building my Black Evo on a 64 mm From daily driver stock up to over 900ho and 700tq Both him and his son are extremely knowledgeable in what they do... Great customer service And their prices are more than fair Too bad I let my ego go But perhaps one day if I purchase a Subaru I'll have them service it - Rick Jr read more

Tony has been my go to guy for over 10 years, he's worked on my green swagg car to my 72 impala to my Chrysler 300 and my challenger and my ex's Honda so yeah that's my guy right there lol. He is reasonable on pricing and tells it how it is and works with you without a doubt, I've become close with him since the incident with his son years ago I would always check on him and his family during the time his son was there, and from there he always had my back and for that I am forever thankful for him and glad that he was also able to purchase the shop he was working At because at first it wasn't his at the time but he made it his and for that I don't know any other man more deserving than my guy Tony! love you T! Wish you much success my brother ! read more

Tony is seriously THEE BEST!! I have trusted him for years and now writing my review. I know, shame on me! :/ I feel so confident and comfortable with Tony because he is always honest with me from the very beginning with what needed to be worked on in my car and what could wait. He did not try to get me to fix things that didn't need to be fixed or pay for unnecessary repairs. I did my research and every repair or service I've gotten done has been reasonably priced. He can do just about everything - to flat tires, to purchasing new tires from his wholesale price, oil changes, engine failures and more! I bought a new vehicle a few years back and instead of going to the dealership to have my oil changed, I just took it here because I know they won't gauge me for every buck! GO SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL BUSINESSES!! read more

I am new to San Diego. A friend of mine recommended this place. It's very difficult to find a good an honest mechanic. This place was awesome. Tony was very kind and honest. Steven was also very helpful. I came in for an oil change & tire rotation for my Prius. I was in and out in an hour. I also appreciate that I'm not given so many paper copy's when I arrive & when I leave of the estimates. Everything gets sent directly to your email. read more

The first time I went to Tony's, I needed my breaks replaced. Tony listened to my financial concerns and offered me different options. This was the first time an auto shop helped me find a solution within my budget. We decided on the cheapest option, but later he called to tell me they had better quality breaks for the same price!! Most places wouldn't have gone out of their way to find a better option, let alone call to inform me. It has been a year since I got new breaks, and I have not had any issues with them. Tony's did a fantastic job and my breaks have been working great! I recently went back to Tony's to get an oil change, and to fix my windshield fluid dispenser. I mentioned to Tony that I was going to go to the dentist while they worked on my car. As I was ordering my lyft, he asked me if I needed a ride (how cool and sweet is that?!) I agreed, and one of his employees gave me a ride to the dentist. I ended up saving $10!! After the dentist, I ordered a lyft to go back to the shop, and texted Tony that I was on my way. Tony proceeded to offer me another ride!! Honestly, can this auto shop get any better?! Since I had already ordered the lyft, I declined. When I got to the shop, they had my car ready to go. It has been 2 weeks and my windshield fluid dispenser has not had any issues. My boyfriend and I have each gone to Tony's several times. Each time we are left in awe by how great they treat their customers. Not only will your car be in good hands here, you will also NOT get nickeled and dimmed, all while receiving above and beyond customer service! read more

Was recommended to Tony's by a friend because he was good and trustworthy he was. It's always hard to find a mechanic who is both. Have used their services multiple times and they've done a great job for a lot less than I predicted from what I read online. Standup company 5/5 all around. read more