I'll start with this: I brought my 2011 BMW X5 in to have tires mounted. This part went mostly smoothly. Having previously failed a BMW-provided state inspection because of tire tread thickness, I figured I'd go ahead and have them give me another state inspection. This is where things went a little sideways. They tell me that the vehicle has failed inspection again, but this time, because (and I do quote here) "NO HEADLIGHTS AND LEFT FRONT FOGLIGHT". "Really?" I asked. "That's weird, as I just had it inspected at BMW, and they only had two issues: front breaks, which they corrected, and rear tires... nothing about headlights... oh, and I just used them last night without issue." I replied. Just to be sure, I go outside to look, and sure enough, both the fog lights and headlights, including high beams all work without issue. I ask to show the inspector. After a minute or two, the inspector comes outside, and I demonstrate both the normal headlights, the fog lights, and the high beams all work. At this point, he continues to claim that they're not working properly, and that the vehicle has an electrical issue. Which is can't possibly have, as 1) the lights have worked exactly the same way since the car was delivered, and 2) it's never failed an inspection for anything ever related to electrical systems or lights. So frustratingly, I take the vehicle right back to the BMW dealer, where they take one look at it, verify that indeed all of the headlights are working exactly as designed, and affix the appropriate VA safety inspection sticker. No issue existed whatsoever. My issue here really is not with the service received. My issue is that even after demonstrating the the headlights were indeed all working, I was still told that they were not, and that "this vehicle has an electrical problem," which was absolutely not the case. So getting tires mounted? These are your guys. Have a late-model BMW that needs an inspection? For my time and effort, I'd go elsewhere. read more

I wouldn't let these guys work on my skateboard! Push unnecessary fluid flushes on you and don't care about the original reason the vehicle was brought in. There nice guy approach is a scam! Avoid! Avoid! read more

Let me just say that I have never even been to this place. That might sound ominous for a car repair shop review, but the customer service on the phone was so horrendous that I would never go there in a million years . My friends were driving from IL ( I live by DC) to visit me, and their car started having problems on the road. They asked me to find a place to take it in the morning which i more than happily did for them. I logged on to YELP right away to see what I could find, and this place came up as one of the best in the area. Honest, funny, etc....well. On one of the reviews it states that they don't charge to look at your car. That's not what I just got told. They can charge anywhere between $48 and $120. Strike one. Strike two was asking how much it was for a standard tune up and air filter replacement. He said "now a days, m'am, we don't just have standard rates for that kind of stuff. It depends on every car." I'm sorry, but every single place I go to has standard rates for such repairs. It's a simple tune up, people Can you give me an estimate..nope.. ok.. strike three was his general overall condescending tone. Just because I am female doesn't mean i don't know JACK about cars, but in my case i do. I know a decent amount. I don't appreciate being talked "down" to, I don't think anyone does. needless to say, i will not be recommending my friends go to this place in the morning. We will find somewhere else. read more

Been coming here for a couple years and always thought these guys were pretty honest, but I'm wondering if they are just good salesmen. They charged me $125 on probably 3 separate occasions to read the code for my check engine light, and said it was because it required them to take things apart to access the connection. Just went to Autozone and found that this was 100% BS; it requires absolutely no work to access the connection and about 10 seconds to read the code.. Seriously makes me wonder what else they've ripped me off on over the years... That being said, I can't complain about any of the work they've done and they always seem to look for ways to help out on the price. On one occasion my timing belt snapped and tore up my engine. They actually called the dealer and found out my engine was under warranty. I still think these guys are better than most repair shops, and would easily give them 5 stars if I didn't feel lied to about the check engine diagnostic test. read more

They earned an extra star over my previous review as they upgraded their lobby area and we have had consistently great experiences with them for 5 years. They do have a courtesy shuttle but we have not used it. They are also right next to the bike trail at the Sunset Hills crossing for anyone who is game for riding their bike to/from their location instead of arranging for a ride or the shuttle. Also for anyone who visits the Reston Lifetime gym, it is an easy walk from there and you could hang out by the pool or get in a work-out while you're waiting for your car. The lobby used to be small and utilitarian (which I didn't mind), now it is a comfortable place to kill a couple hours with leather seats and a coffee machine. I have dealt with many different employees (and I'm sure the owner, I don't know who is who) and have always been treated with nothing but courtesy and respect. Many times they have accommodated a same-day repair quickly, and have helped me with last-minute inspections when I noticed I only had a few days before it expired. They have also been happy to help me with repairs or installation when I bought parts and tires online to save money. I am not car smart but they never make me feel like they're being patronizing or taking advantage. Any time I have authorized them for a major repair, I have gotten at least 3 other quotes for comparison and SHA has always come out on top. I have been there dozens of times for maintenance/repairs since 2009, and never have had an experience like Liz H. and Fatema described in their dismal 1-star reviews. It makes me sad to see an honest small business blasted on a review site for understandable challenges and unreasonable customers. They won many bonus points from me when I left my wallet there years ago during a particularly stressful day - they called to let me know immediately but I couldn't get back to retrieve it before they closed. They offered to lock it in my car that was awaiting repair so I could pick it up after closing using my spare key. They were very kind and creative in helping me at a scatterbrained moment, and didn't even make me feel like an idiot. I'm happy to see they were able to expand to a 2nd location recently at 7 and Baron Cameron. This is a special group of gentlemen and it's always a pleasure to refer others to them for excellent service, no one I know has ever been disappointed! read more

First let me say that Sunset Hills is staffed by nice people. I think that they are not staffed to work on European cars. I brought my 328i in for new brakes. It took them 4 separate visits to deliver on a set of brakes that did not squeal badly. On the first return visit, they told me to wait for 300 miles. On the second they took a look and said nothing was wrong. On the third, they replaced the pads again. Finally on the fourth visit, i had the owner ride with me and he heard how bad they would. On this visit, they finally fixed my issue. However taking four visits to get the brakes right is ridiculous. On a positive note, they did fix it however i will not be back. read more

Seriously this is a hidden gem! Unlike other places they aren't trying to rip you off and tell you many other things that you don't need but they do make recommendations! Service was fast and they were super friendly! I'll definitely be coming back, they also have complimentary tea and coffee and their chairs are comfortable! read more

Words cannot express how good this company is, but I will try. In the last year, I can point to three examples of work performed above and beyond what would be expected 1) After another place nearby quoted me almost a thousand dollars for a brake job ("needing" 4 new rotors), I took my car here. While they agreed that the brakes needed to be done (as did I, as they were making noise), they were able to resurface the rotors one more time, saving me many hundreds of dollars/ 2) When I needed new tires, they recommended tires that have been great at a price similar to that of tire chains, with a better warranty 3) Finally, when my car suddenly stalled out, they were able to diagnose the problem and repair it for far less than I expected. The repair ended up being a minor item (a loose wire), but every other shop that I have ever dealt with would have milked the repair for unnecessary services. The bottom line - these guys recommend the services that you really need, but also will do what they can to save you money when they can. It is very rare to find a company that is willing to take a long term view for business relationships, but these guys do. I look forward to many many more years of doing business with them. read more

I'll start saying that I normally hate going to auto parts for many reasons. Long waiting, high costs, fees that you didn't expect, etc. Well, I just got my oil and filter changed here today and what a good surprise! Fast, reasonable price, comfortable chairs to seat in, friendly people and coffee! I'm thankful. read more

Sunset Hills Automotive - Auto Repair Near Me - Reston, Virginia

I took my car here for an inspection test. They failed me for inspection stating that the power steering rack was leaking power steering fluid and said I would need to replace the whole thing for approximately $1200-1500 (even though the power steering fluid was completely full) . The next day they called me with a more detailed quote of $1775 for a factory part or $1475 for a non-factory part with an alignment. I called my regular shop who quoted me only $1000 on the phone IF the rack was even the real issue since it is very uncommon. They said it is probably just a boot that needs to be replaced. I took it in, and they were right...I had the boot replaced for $125! Took it to another inspection shop and passed with no problem! I would go elsewhere for car work...I SAVED $1,650 by going somewhere else!!! If this is your place, I definitely recommend at least getting a second quote from another trusted shop. Some other things to note: - They offer a complimentary shuttle which is nice - Lobby waiting area is comfortable with a coffee stand - Wait time was about double what I was quoted - Staff is friendly (except for high price quotes on parts you don't actually need!!) read more

I visited Sunset Hills Automotive for an emissions inspection and was so impressed with the friendly, courteous and helpful team. The service here is superb and I highly recommend this business. Special thanks to Jim and team for going above and beyond to help me with putting on my new plates and stickers - much appreciated! read more

Had a great first time visit here today! Had an oil change and inspection. Buddy was so friendly over the phone and in person. Just a block away from work it's my new auto place to go to from now on! read more

I am not car-smart, but Sunset Hills Automotive took care without taking advantage. The service guys were friendly, helpful, and seemed very honest. I liked the local shuttle service, and I am sure I will be back when my car needs service again. read more

My family has been taking our cars here for years. They're great on communicating with you about work to be done and price. Never have been disappointed with their work or customer service. They recently expanded their shop I believe with 3 more bays. read more

Love these guys. I have been a customer for going on 8 years now and had all sorts of work done...diagnostics, oil change, tire rotation, brakes, new tires and more. The service is always friendly and helpful. They tell you when you don't need to fix something and don't charge to fix something they didn't get right in the first place (only happened once). And I really appreciate the free shuttle. They do emissions testing now too, so no more sitting in some ridiculous line at a gas station. Just drop off the car and call me when it's done. read more

I took my car here because of the great yelp reviews and I have to say I was not disappointed! I had a flat tire and I wanted to get it fixed ASAP. I called in the morning when they opened and spoke to Bill. He told me they didn't have the type of tire I had on my car but that they could get me one similar and that I could come by anytime. I got there around 8:30 and they took me right away. They inspected my old tire and decided it was beyond repair (which wasn't a shock). Bill told me how much it would be and how long it would take to get a new tire and asked if I wanted to wait or wanted the shuttle to take me to work. I went to work and Bill called me when my car was ready and the shuttle came to get me. The total ended up being a little less then the quote. I can't even express how satisfied I am with the service I received and I will absolutely be returning for any other things I need done on my car. read more

Called with the hopes of getting an oil change today or tomorrow told me to come over in five minutes. I was done within an hour. They were incredibly polite and reasonably priced. read more

Great place for maintenance. They've always had openings when I need them and are kind and prompt. I also appreciate their comfy lounge area with free wi-fi for me to hangout in while I wait on my car. read more

This Auto Repair shop is Top Notch! They are professional, accommodating and friendly. I have taken my car to them for everything and I always feel like they are looking out for my best interest. I can't say enough about these guys! I have recommended them to everyone in my office and we are all pleased with the service we have gotten. read more

I brought my car in for an oil change. The mechanic broke my door handle, and the shop refused to replace it. I ended up paying $200 for a new handle. The most expensive oil change I have ever had. Careless job and greedy management. I would give it negative 5 if I could. read more

I came in for an oil change and both inspections. I was told it could take up to two hours. My car was done within the hour. Very nice staff and very helpful. Definitely will be coming back and will recommend to friends and family. read more

This place is a rare gem. HONEST, skilled service. Being a young woman, when dealing with car repairs/maintenance it is of the utmost importance to me to be able to trust that the information imbalance is not being exploited. There is simply no other mechanic where I am as confident that my best interests are being served, and being served well at that! It's the little things too--once I had my car towed there after a flat, and they put the spare on for no charge after I decided to go to costco to get the new tire. Whether it's just an oil change or a really big job, you can be confident in Sunset Hills Automotive. read more

I've been going to Sunset Hills for years and have always had good service. However, my car recently had a major meltdown, at a cost of many thousands of dollars (oopsie--apparently my car was a tad low on oil...) and Sunset Hills was great. They helped me to make the best decision about how to deal with the car and were just really good during a stressful and financially painful situation. I completely trust these guys. read more

Started taking my 4 year old Venza here this year for scheduled services due to so many issues with the dealership in Chantilly. My wife has been bringing an older model Accord here for a number of years. They do good work, don't hassle with all the "Toyota Recommended" up sells of the dealership, are friendly, and have a shuttle service for the neighboring area which is super convenient. I have done two "minor" scheduled services...the next one will be a big one. Hopefully I will be back at that point to bump this up to 5 stars. The most important thing to me is they are straight forward. I always feel I am being treated honestly and fairly which is not all that common when it comes to car maintenance. I definitely recommend based on my experiences and that of my wife's. read more

If I could give more stars I certainly would. Buddy and Jason are absolutely wonderful! They answered all questions I had and let me know about pricing. I am definitely coming back to Sunset Hills Automotive for my car repairs. I went to another Automotive place for my inspection on Monday and was told I wouldn't pass due to my brakes. After reading reviews of Sunset Hills Automotives, I thought I'd bring it in to get them repaired. They called and told me that they were definitely worthy of passing inspection. Basically I just needed some minor work done to them, but I could wait on that. He did tell me things that I should get fixed that may become a problem later on, but didn't force me to get anything done. Thank you guys! You've definitely earned my business :) read more

Like others, I tried this place due to the reviews and this time, the reviews were spot on. They were easy to deal with, friendly, did the repair AND it's guaranteed! They suggested an original Honda part (motor mount), as I was told other manufacturer's parts can actually cause more damage, due to the type of material used. I'm no mechanic, but it sounded right. They let me know about other minor issues and left it up to me whether to have them repaired. And, when I mentioned a certain service, I was told that it really didn't need it for many more miles. I was given a ride home and except for actually having to pay for an unexpected car repair, it was actually a pleasant experience. This is the first time in years I've left an auto repair shop and felt good. I will be back! read more

Good honest mechanic. I took my car to another local shop to check out the cause of a light which had went off on my dashboard. When the first shop said my car required ~$2,000 of repairs, many of which to remedy problems I hadn't noticed ever having, I decided to get a second opinion at Sunset Hills. Not only was the first shop trying to sell me a major part I didn't need to remedy the dash light they were also pushing several other repairs I did not need. I've taken my car to Sunset Hills for some other work including an inspection and have been pleased. I highly recommend them to anyone in the Reston area. read more

DO NOT USE THESE GUYS. After a few years of good service we found that over the past two years they have over charged us for items not fixed and falsely reported items a being fixed when they were not. For example, we had a problem with our exhaust system on our car. They claimed to have fixed it but all they did was replace one piece and then did not mount the exhaust correctly. So about 6 months later the exhaust system started to fall off the car. I took it to a muffler shop and found that Sunset never really fixed anything. Further on my Mustang they claimed and charged me to change 8 spark plugs and coils. however they only replaced 2 and charged me for 8. I found this out when one of the older plugs started to fail. I replaced them all myself and found they Sunset had lied and charged me for work not performed. read more

Gary, his sons and their team are terrific - can't say enough good things about them. They are honest, when a big job needs to be done they price it fairly and stand by their work, and when something really doesn't need to be done, they tell you. They know their customers - it's like an old-fashioned family business. I highly, highly recommend them. read more

Below is the email I wrote to Sunset Hills on Monday, 6/25. It is now Friday, 6/29 and I have received no response. So disappointing, especially since I gave them the opportunity to make things right. My husband and I will certainly be taking our business elsewhere from now on! Hello, I just returned from getting my oil changed at your facility and had a less than pleasant experience. I've been a customer at Sunset Hills for over 3 years and I have always been very happy prior to today. In fact, I started coming regularly for oil changes in 2015 when you offered to match the lesser oil change price from NTB. I value local business owners and appreciated the fact that you were willing to match a competitors price (I even had my husband switch over and begin utilizing your services). Today when I came in, I was charged $20 more than I have paid in the past. When I inquired further about why this was the case, I was greeted with an extremely rude and curt response from your associate. I asked if he could look at my previous car's records to find out what the difference was, and he said that he deleted my old car and couldn't access those records. Since both of my cards have been Acura's (synthetic oil) and the associate claims your prices have not changed, I am confused about why I paid more money today. I was also charged $14.95 for a tire rotation, a fee that is included in every oil change at NTB. I explained to your associate that you would be losing our business and he shrugged his shoulders and said "Okay." Never did he attempt to make it right or take the time to find out why I was paying more. I am more upset by the lack of customer service I received today than the $20. I would like to give you the chance to make this right before we both take our business elsewhere. I can be reached by email or phone at __________. read more

This place has major scheduling problems: - my first visit yielded two consecutive days of visits with many failed promises that the car would be ready. This was all for an oil change, inspection and emmisions. - my second visit I thought I learned so I made an on-line appointment. the on-line appoinment says "your appointment is scheduled unless you hear from us that it is not". I wasn't quite comfortable with this but figured it was a professional business and they knew what they were doing. I get to the shop and they said "well, we don't check our email very often". not what I wanted to hear. but they said they would finish in 3 hours (for an oil change!) I go back 3.5 hours later and they had not even taken the car in. I'm not going back. I need a dependable shop. read more

Sunset Hills is a great independent repair place. They're reliable, honest, fast, and friendly. We try to come here for just about everything - routine maintenance, oil changes, safety inspections, you name it. If you live in Reston, you're not going to find a better shop. read more

6 months ago, another mechanic told me I needed approximately $2500 worth of work on my car. I couldn't afford it, so I kept putting off what I knew would ultimately be a painful repair. Today, my car is fixed for less than $900, and it is because these guys aren't crooks, and they don't take advantage. They told me what they would do to their own family's cars, and I took their advice. I couldn't be happier. I will DEFINITELY be back. read more

Bottom line, they were super communicative, explained things, fast with the diagnosis and very fairly priced. Most of all, my car is permanently fixed. I went to two other area mechanics who charged $100 more and never actually got to the root of the problem. Sunset did. read more

These guys are good guys. Honest, get you in and out quickly, etc. I spent a decent amount on repairs, but I needed to get a lot of stuff fixed and hadn't serviced my car in over a year. I left feeling like it's a trusted place to go for auto repairs. read more

Always excellent service! I've been taking my car there since I got it and I plan on remaining a regular! Such a relief to find a reliable place. Finally! read more

Everyone was very helpful. I worked with Azim and he helped me fix my brake problem. When I explained that I couldn't afford new calipers, he worked with me and presented a cheaper alternative (cleaning the calipers) that worked with my budget. Great service! Azim also rode in the car with me afterwards to ensure that the problem was fixed before I left. read more

SHA is great! My Acura was overheating, and I luckily happened to come across this shop while driving. John Hill, the manager, and another staff member (whose name I didn't catch and also drives an Acura), stopped what they were doing to look under the hood. They then wound up flushing the coolant and topping it off as well as replacing the broken cap; the problem is fixed. They were so helpful and kind - made such a positive impact and I'm so grateful! read more

Excellent old fashioned workshop. Reasonable charges. My car for accidentally damaged during repairs but they covered full cost of repairs without any hassle or arguments. I recommend all friends and family to go there. read more

These guys have been my mechanics for a few years. They have always done good work and I will continue to use them