For Brian Santos -- I hope you become even more successful. Thank you. Honesty. Integrity. Skill. This message is for anyone who values character, peace of mind, and happiness. I'm not very knowledgeable about cars, so finding someone both honest and skillful matters to me. Speed Element was recommended by my friend Ronan, who said this is where "car guys" go. I'm not a car guy--but Ronan is. He drives a Nissan GT-R with full carbon fiber throughout. I don't fully understand what that entails, but I trust his judgment. If he trusts Speed Element, that carries weight. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Brian handled all communication and coordination, and from my first message on Yelp, everything was clear and transparent. He broke down pricing and parts in a way that was easy to understand, answered my questions patiently, and never made me feel rushed or pressured.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Before I even came into the shop, Brian was already helping me over text when my car had trouble starting. Instead of pushing a sale, he suggested trying a battery tender first. That said a lot.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] By profession, I'm a doctor in rehabilitation and sports medicine. Most people don't fully understand what's happening in their own bodies, which is why transparency and patience are essential when working with patients. I shared this with Brian, and he said he approaches his work the same way. That philosophy resonated with me. The team in the back handled the work--wheel balancing, an oil change, and a battery replacement--and Brian coordinated everything smoothly, even applying a discount. I had a vibration between 50-70 mph, and Brian took a test drive with me to confirm it was resolved before I paid. The garage is open, so you can see the work being done throughout the process. Another small but telling detail: Brian offered to secure my belongings from the car in a safe location. It reinforced that professionalism isn't only about technical skill--it's about consideration. It also helped that we're both Filipino-American, which made communication easier and the interaction more natural, though the quality of service stood on its own regardless. No hidden fees. No surprises. Full transparency. If these values matter to you, go see Brian at Speed Element. read more

Speed Element - Red Sports Car. Lexus. - Auto Repair Near Me - San Jose, California

Speed Element is awesome! [[HIGHLIGHT]]Kyle has been super helpful both times I've brought my car here.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The first time, the team helped me install new wheels and tires on my '15 STI, and they dialed in the perfect alignment. I came back a second time because I needed to track down a boost leak before my upcoming tune. Kyle and the team diagnosed and fixed it flawlessly--no more leaks! [[HIGHLIGHT]]If you're looking for a shop that values clear communication, fair pricing, quality workmanship, and integrity, Kyle and Speed Element are the way to go![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I will definitely will be back for more work on my car Thanks Kyle and team! read more

Speed Element - Auto Repair Near Me - San Jose, California

Had coil over put on my Mercedes and no issues what so ever the Guy that has always helped is Kyle he is the one we do bussiness with when have my service done on the Mercedes . Today Tuesday getting a new set of tires put on mounted and disposal of tires and alignment they guarantee their work which is awesome and I I like said haven't had an issue. With any wirk done here .[[HIGHLIGHT]]they are quick to get you taken care of which is always a blessing[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Thank you at speed element ‼ read more

If you own an evo and are in the Bay Area/ central coast this place is the go to shop. All the other mechanics I've gone to have no clue what they are doing. I feel safe coming here and they do great work on my car. read more

Called in for carbon cleaning (walnut blast) for my 12 BMW 135i. Scheduled a week out. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Great communication with Brian.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Transparent, quick, responsive. Car feels great. read more

[[HIGHLIGHT]]From the moment I walked in, the staff was welcoming.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Brian helped me out and was both knowledgeable and professiona[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]l . They lowered my car, and the quality of the work was outstanding. Definitely recommend the place for quality work. read more

I regularly come to Speed Element for alignments on my M3's. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Kyle and his team always take care of me with grace concerning my specific requests around specific alignment specs.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Many shops will make a fuss over aftermarket suspension, ride heights, camber plates etc. No fuss here and pricing is competitive for the work they do. Thanks! read more

Speed Element - Auto Repair Near Me - San Jose, California

Shop was highly recommended by friends and other car enthusiasts. Had a full lip kit installed here on my brand new FL5. The job was carefully done, meticulous, clean and professional. Unlike some other shops I utilized before...NO accidental scuffs, scratches, hand prints, grease marks all over the car in the areas the car was worked on. [[HIGHLIGHT]]I worked with Kyle. He was great to work with, honest and kept me informed and updated during the installation[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]. He also took some nice photos underneath the car of the work done. Thank you and I look forward to coming here to do more mods in the future. read more

Been here twice now, one for an intercooler and one for routine brake service, no complaints for either. First, the intercooler install with some extra instructions to get some pictures of it in my car (To get my Carb sticker from manufacturer). [[HIGHLIGHT]]Brian made this a pretty seamless process, dropped off my car and headed back to work then picked it up when it was done ~2.5 hours later.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Pictures were sent to me shortly after and was able to easily get my carb sticker.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Second was just the routine rear brake+rotor change. Initially quoted for 1.5 hours over yelp, but it only took them an hour and they only charged me for that hour (props) which was nice of them to do so. I believe Kyle was the one who helped with this one so thanks Kyle! Competitive pricing in terms of $labor/hour. They work on a lot of sporty-ish cars, as evident through their lot when you arrive, and I mainly come here since a lot of other FK8/FL5 owners bring their cars here. Only thing to really hate is that they're located in an area with a bunch of other shops/construction/labor so walking around to do something takes a while(no side walks for a majority of the street) and can be sketchy at times. Otherwise, if you're just waiting inside, getting picked up, or ubering, I don't see any issues. Have a couple more things I hope to get done down the line so fingers crossed their service stays top notch. read more

If you're afraid of getting lost just look for the parking lot full of race cars outside lol. They flushed my brakes in about 40mins and charged less than quoted. Honest shop run by people who are obviously enthusiasts. read more

Speed Element - Auto Repair Near Me - San Jose, California

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Had my 30k rear differential flush on my wrx here 3 years ago. I'm at 60k miles and decided to do this flush myself. Of course they over tighten the rear differential drain and fill plug. No amount of pb blaster or wd-40 is going to help break this bolt in a home garage with 4 Jack stands. How do I know they over tightened the bolts? Because we were able to break my friends WRX same VA platform, which still has its factory torque spec, in the same garage with 4 Jack stands. I believe torque spec is 37ft lbs? Ended up going to a different mechanic shop with lifts to help break the rear differential bolts. read more

Speed Element - Purchased spare plugs in the event we stripped the existing ones in the process. - Auto Repair Near Me - San Jose, California

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[[HIGHLIGHT]]Great group of knowledgeable enthusiasts.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I have gotten all sorts of things from this shop. Purchased things from interior upgrades to suspension. [[HIGHLIGHT]]This team is always a1[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Brian was my point of contact for the shop. Super helpful and always willing to take the time to speak with me and explain discovered issues with my car Initially took my 15 wrx to them to diagnose and repair a high idle issue. They went thru my car top to bottom and addressed all my concern to make my car right! I'll definitely be back and I truly appreciate all the hard work to diagnose and repair my car to be it back to 100%! Quality work at a fair price. Highly recommend read more

Speed Element - Auto Repair Near Me - San Jose, California

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[[HIGHLIGHT]]They took great care of me and my Evo.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I came in for an exhaust leak, he resolved the issue fast! I would definitely recommend them to anybody. The parking lot is just worth your visit, they are a great speed shop for your JDM car! read more

The past few years I've lost interest in the auto scene (busy raising kids), keeping my cars stock with little to no modifications. As the kids became more self-sufficent, I started getting the itch again to jump back into the scene (as a 40 yo!) with an NA2 Acura NSX. Finding a reliable shop that can both maintain your vehicle and install aftermarket components was a priority of mine. In the past, I've had terrible experiences with import shops that made promises they couldn't keep. With that in mind, I had asked some friends for recommendations and the common response was Speed Element. I needed to install some KW V3 coilovers and have them set at the "perfect" ride height that was both comfortable and aesthetically pleasing. I spoke to Devin Hui the owner and he was very knowledgeable and informative. He also spoke about the variety of other services they offer (alignment, dyno, etc.), seems like they're a one-stop shop. I was able to book an appointment a few days out for install and alignment. Upon appointment arrival, I met Devin and he courteosly reminded me to wear my mask at all times as they follow strict Covid guidelines. We discussed the installation process and length of time for completion (roughly 4-6 hours). I had explained to him that I wanted a 1.5" drop in the front and 2" in the rear with rebound & damper settings to be "street comfortable" (I don't track). He introduced me to the mechanic that would be working on my car (sorry forgot his name!) who has experience with a variety of JDM vehicles including the NSX. I left Speed Element feeling reassured that things would go well. A few hours later, I received a text from Devin with a photo of my NSX with newly installed coils and a drop! He wanted me to approve the height before proceeding with alignment. He recommmended (after a test drive) that I raise the height 1/4" which would make it a tad more comfortable and negative camber in the alignment to prevent rubbing against the fender, to which I agreed. Later, I got a surprise text that my car was done an hour earlier than I had anticipated! I swung by ASAP, met with Devin and he recommended that I take a test drive which I happily obliged. I drive around the area for a good 15 minutes and it felt perfect. I pull back into the shop and the first thing he said was "I can tell that you're happy with that big grin on your face!" I finalize the paperwork and payment, thanked him and his team for their efforts and off I went! In closing, Speed Element and Devin was a pleasure to work with. I would definitely be returning for more modifications! Highly recommend! read more

Speed Element - Lowered and loving it! - Auto Repair Near Me - San Jose, California

With the supply chain issues and this pandemic, trying to get Project Mu pads was pretty hard until recently it became available (been waiting probably a few months). Kyle worked with me on this and was able to get the parts I wanted and also scheduled my car in for the work last Friday before I had to travel. I got new Project Mu street pads, DBA 4000, and Motul brake fluid all done in about 3 or 4 hours on a Friday afternoon. The crew did a great job and it is good to be back to being a customer w/ Speed Element again :) Thanks guys! read more

I recently took my Tesla Model 3 and Tesla Model X here to install aftermarket suspension to improve with handling. Process was smooth and fairly priced. Thank you Speed Element and team! read more

Update: I don't know what happened, but they don't respond to my emails anymore. I had asked for some quotes and I guess I stepped on some toes. I understand that as a business, they have the right to refuse service to anyone, but as a consumer, I also have the right to shop around and compare. I didn't think that asking for estimates would get me blackballed. I won't be going back since I don't think I'm welcome there now. UPDATE UPDATE: Brian gave me a call and reassured me there was no problem at all. Turned out they weren't ignoring me; they just never got my last email! I admit, I feel pretty dumb about that one. From now on, if I need a quote, I'll give SpeedElement a call. Top notch customer service! read more

I heard good things about Speed Element and decided to have my car serviced there. Nothing major, just changing gearbox oil and oxygen sensor on an Mitsu Lancer. I have to say the communication was poor. They took a long time to reply to Yelp request, tried calling them, they did not know which oil to use, promised to send estimate (which never came), then promised to call and said they left a voice message (which I never received). Long story short, I fixed my car myself. So zero stars for service, five stars for forcing me to learn a new skill--average three stars. read more

Speed Element - Getting new oxygen sensor. - Auto Repair Near Me - San Jose, California

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Was looking for a shop to have my car lowered. Messaged through Yelp for an install. From the beginning to the end Brian communicated with superb customer service. Very professional , quick, and took care of my car needs, prices are also reasonable. Shop did a magnificent job, and I would recommend Speed Element for any modification services. read more

Speed Element - Eibach springs pro kit - Auto Repair Near Me - San Jose, California

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I came here a while ago to get my engine rebuilt after it blew. Out of the gate I noticed a lot of shoddy work: they used the wrong filter, pop clips were missing, bolts were overtorqued, zipties were everywhere, hose clamps were missing, wrong hardware used etc. I also had a bright red Raceseng shift knob which turned grey due to all the time my car spent in the hot SJ sun. Thus, I wouldn't really recommend them for something as detailed as an engine install. They did give me a discount on labor, hence the 2 stars and not 1. Their customer service was good and they treated me well. Maybe for simple installs you can go here and it'll be fine but I'd be cautious, at least it didn't blow up again I guess... read more

Great service , nice people, overall recommended. I got service done here and it was quick and reasonably priced. They work on a lot of sports cars so you can rest assured they know what they're talking about. read more

A1. Great shop. Excellent service and all the top notch brands. One of my go to spots

The crew at Speed Element is the best! I've been taking my cars there for about 7 years now and Devin always helps getting me the right parts for my builds. Extremely knowledgeable, helpful, and friendly! They've worked on all my past cars from Subaru, Mitsubishi, and BMW. read more

Speed Element - Auto Repair Near Me - San Jose, California

I've had Speed Element do quite a bit of work on my 14 Mazda6 and have had nothing but a great experience! After having them install lowering springs a year ago I reached out to have an exhaust and some grabbier pads installed with my new tune. Their prices are fair and transparent and leave everything better than they found it. read more

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Speed Element recently did some work on my FRS and they did an excellent job. They installed stoptech front and rear pads and replaced all my wheel studs with arp wheel studs. They are great to work with and Brian did a great job communicating with me from the quote estimate to final install. This was my first time there and it definitely won't be the last. Highly recommend read more

Updated review. The realest. No cap. They do great work and that's big facts. Here's an extra sentence so Yelp actually posts this as a review. read more

Tuner is untrustworthy. Charges for hours of "work" but in reality doesn't do much. Doesn't give the best diagnostics.

I paid them to replace the clutch, flywheel, rear main seal, and axle seals on my WRX. As soon as I got it back I asked what the weird sound was and they assured me my new Subaru original equipment flywheel and clutch were just making "new clutch sounds". My transmission blew less than 2000 miles later and they blamed it on just being a bad transmission. So I replaced the blown transmission myself and while doing so found a number of stripped exhaust bolts and 2 broken turbo studs they didn't replace, just bolted it back together with only 3. Here I am now 20k miles after they butchered this job with yet ANOTHER failed repair. My new rear main seal is blown and it has ruined my brand new clutch and flywheel they installed. BEWARE: this place will cost you multiple times. read more

Speed Element - Auto Repair Near Me - San Jose, California

Avoid them if possible. Shoddy work and slow response. The workers seemed disorganized and did not know the status of the job done.

I really had high expectations for this place. When you walk up and see all the cars you feel like this place knows what they're doing. Everything changes after they take your money. You get what they give you not what you pay for. I assume this is the price customers pay when the shop is over books. (Cause it's our fault) You would think these guys are car guys or girls like you but they're not they're just there to make a buck. f- the customer! Take your car somewhere else, don't waste your time or hard earned money to get treated like crap by people who honestly don't care. I'm adding a warning to my review, apparently if you give this shop one star they will post it on Instagram with the year make and model of your car including your Yelp name so that people can target you in your vehicle again this just goes to show the level of customer service the shop provides. I posted this review for my son who is a minor just breaking into the car scene and has worked all year to upgrade his car only to have this shop talk trash about it on IG. I'm sure they all started off with perfect rides and none of them had to start from the bottom and figure things out on their cars. This is so sad to see so called car guys trash other car guys because their feelings got hurt for a one star review. How about you do an amazing job and take care of your customers so they don't have to give you a one star review? What happened to good customer service? The customer is always right? All things of the past. This shop just wants your money and for you move on so they can rob the next sucker! read more

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These guys found the problem fast on my 2021 Type R. Straightened my exhaust and looks much better now! Go to San José race car shop. Thanks guys. read more

Speed Element - More straight. - Auto Repair Near Me - San Jose, California

I brought my car in twice to install rear camber arms, rear sway bar, and an alignment for the track. Brian was really nice and patient with me. He even explained tips and how to prep my car for track day. After the the installation, my car started making weird noises in the rear, but they took my car in and fixed the problem right away. I recommend this shop for their honesty and kindness 10/10. read more

I ordered Swift Springs for my Type R through Brian here at a great price that beat other competitors. He made the process effortless even when the part was backordered and we are going through a pandemic. I'd highly recommend purchasing from here. read more

Speed Element - Auto Repair Near Me - San Jose, California

Been trying to get ahold of the owner for 3-4 weeks to inquire about some work previously (accidentally autocorrected to "deviously" in my last review meant "previously") done at the shop and possibly having some supporting work done since they know the car but haven't received a call back. The people answering the phone have been helpful but it seems that the owner Devin isn't as such. It sounds like the shop is very busy but to not receive a call back in almost a month is poor business practice and frankly irresponsible. Not sure if the quality of the work follows the managers apparent work ethic. Again, the employees seem helpful but hopefully I can update this review eventually. Update: Still no call back from Devin but I have been informed by a third party who works with the company that Devin has no obligation to call me back nor provide an explanation for any reason unless I have given him or SE money. I'm not sure how new customers are taken in if they only call people back who gave them money already. Seems like an odd business practice. read more

Needed some parts installed on my car, called speed element and Brian was able to help me set up an appointment and estimate. All i can say is i had great experience, service and communication here and will be coming back to speed element for future car needs especially wheels, body kits, oil change etc Highly recommend this shop! Thank you guys! Keep it up! read more

Took my 11th civic for a sway bars upgrade. Place was great . Did a good job and to be honest well priced too . Thanks Kyle! I will be bringing my car back for sure. read more

I worked with Brian and he was very responsive and helpful with the work on my Tesla Model3, clean shop and great customer service read more

Speed Element - Eibach Pro Kit Spring Installed - Auto Repair Near Me - San Jose, California

STELLAR STAFF, INCREDIBLE SERVICE & THOSE VIEWS!! I was in need of new rotors & brakes for all 4 of my wheels :( i know, i know. I shopped around for prices at my dealership as well as Sears. The dealership wanted to charge me around $1100 for labor & parts, and Sears gave me a quote in the high 600s but i noticed they were up selling me when i looked up the parts they wanted to use, plus it seems every-time i leave sears, something else is wrong with my car. But i remembered Speed Element from when i would go with my boyfriend to car shows. they always had a big crowd around them at their booth, with cool cars, so i figured it wouldn't hurt to give them a call. I called in and initially spoke with the owner Devin. I told him what i needed, and he began to ask me questions about my driving/commute to gauge what kind of brakes i may need . He said he was going to have Ryan call me back to see what they may have for my car. In less then 15 minutes, Ryan called and it seemed he was well informed of what i needed and what parts would work best. He sent me a estimate immediately after our call. The estimate was right on track with the make of brakes and rotors i needed. So i was immediately impressed they weren't trying to make me pay more since im a "girl". The next day i called back Speed Element to set up an appointment. Devin was amazing with scheduling me. He catered to my work schedule, since i commute 4 hours a day, and made sure they had all the parts ready for me. I ended up coming in the very next day since Devin was able to move things around for me . He also made sure that he would do whatever possible to have the car ready within the next few hours so i could enjoy my weekend. I get there, and immediately walked into their lobby that was filled with tons of trophies. I was quickly greeted by Devin, and he started to introduce me to his staff that were going to work on my car. Everyone was very kind, and helpful with my questions. He made sure i was comfortable in their waiting area, and consistently would walk in to see if i needed anything, or to give me an eta when my car would be ready. Service was so quick!! I only waited a couple hours, but didn't mind the wait because they had so many cool cars they had "modded", so i was kept busy. Regardless, i had a blast there. The staff, Devin and all the friendly faces made it easy to wait. Customer service was by far incredible, and i definitely trust these guys with my car and not trying to up-sell me like most places. My car drives like a gem now. I cant wait to come back again!! read more

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I went here because of their image throughout social media. They claimed good/clean work and that was something I would pay their higher prices for. However going here a couple of times, I've concluded that I'm done having business with them. Went here to get an alignment one time, pleased with the work. Went there another time for an alignment and the camber plates for my front struts went out of alignment after only a hundred miles or so. Then, I went to get my tires mounted on a new set of wheels. Was pleased that they didn't really scuff up the wheels, but disappointed how I couldn't even run them on my car due to their no knowledge on how you can mount tpms sensors on my specific wheel without giving clearance issues once on the car. I would've thought they knew about how to mount these specific sensors after being in business with modified cars for years. They charged me a lot for both the alignment and especially the mounting/balancing which didn't last me long. Also, they like to give out wheel specs on nice wheels on their social media so if you're on of those people who get irked about that, I suggest not going there or tell them. Thanks for reading read more

Speed Element - The valve stem that interfered with my brakes (not bbk). - Auto Repair Near Me - San Jose, California