Always professional and up front...took forever but finally found a mechanic we can trust!

Fuck that guy Bob. I had a great experience at Superior and I feel that I can trust them, the #1 thing you should look for in a mechanic. Pros: - The do not try to upsell you on things you don't need - They are honest about repairs, what should, could and doesn't need to be done - Their prices are very reasonable after comparing other places in the area as Independent mechanics are significantly cheaper than dealers and bigger companies - Positive costumer service experience - Decent discount on first time costumers read more

I brought my car in because it wasn't running right. From the moment I dropped my car off, I had a bad feeling about the place. Throughout our discussions, they quoted me ridiculous prices for fixing my car (the original quote was $1000, which is ridiculous). They had mentioned that ONE of the coils was not functioning right, so we discussed replacing the ONE coil. They wanted to replace all of them and ALL of the sparks and plugs, because they don't do "small jobs." So, instead of fixing the thing that's wrong, they're ONLY willing to do an ALL or NOTHING job. Anyhow, we'd finally gotten to the agreement on the one coil. I had been under the impression that the coil was to be replaced, as was my dad, who had also spoken with them. After all of the hubub, I found out that they didn't end up replacing the coil, afterall, because they didn't think it was necessary. So a month or so later (on Thanksgiving, of all days), my car stranded me and my dog five miles from home--thanks for the extra exercise, guys. Because of all of the upselling, I didn't trust these guys to stand by their word or product, and expected that they'd probably just try and charge me another $1000 for some other superfluous repair...or recommend to replace the WHOLE engine instead of fixing one thing, since that seems to be their practice. Instead of dealing with that bullshit again, I decided to go with a guy who worked independently, without all the overhead, who depended on actually being honest to get repeat business- he found that the item originally replaced was, of course, no longer working because there was a bad coil. So, they'd not replaced the coil they TOLD me they'd replace and it ended up screwing up my car. In the end, ALL I asked was that they refund me on the faulty part. I didn't care about their ridiculous labor costs and overheads- just that one part, which I thought was a reasonable request. They said they could only warranty it, saying I should've brought it back to them so they could fix it. Yeah, right. So you could find other "problems" and charge MORE money?? If these guys really treat everybody's cars like their grandmother's car, they must be digging pretty deep into her pocketbook. read more

I have been going to Superior for a couple of years now. First with my German car which always seemed to be breaking down and now with my Asian car which brings me to Superior every 3,000 miles for an oil change. Superior actually encouraged me to get a different car because they realistically knew the long-term prognosis for my old car. They cared less about their bottom line and more about the reality of my situation. When I was car shopping, they told me they would be happy to inspect any car I was thinking about purchasing and Charlie even looked up trade reviews on some vehicles I was interested in buying to see how they stacked up. Can you say "Customer Service"??? The customer service at Superior is top notch. Charlie & Sarah that manage the front are a dream team & begin to feel like friends. They schedule appointments both over the phone or online. They check-in with you midday to update you about your vehicle's progress as well as when you can expect the job to be complete. At the end of the day, they (or a mechanic) review the work that was performed on your vehicle. The mechanics are excellent at what they do and take the time to come up to the front to explain your car details to you or walk outside to your vehicle to indicate things they think you should know. I have sent family and friends to Superior and had random other "aha" moments with friends when we find out we both have been mutually going to Superior for years. There's a reason they have gotten such great reviews on here. Word of mouth is everything and I won't take my car anywhere else. read more

Can't say anything good about this place that hasn't already been said. I do wish I'd found them sooner than 1 1/2 years ago! They've taken the best care of my aging Civic and have charged me much-lower-than-expected prices on its rebuilt transmission, its brakes, and its speedometer, and overall I can't recommend this place enough. They call around for the best deal without putting in cheap parts that will fail soon. They don't do anything unecessary, they listen to their customers, they give good advice on whether something can safely be put off until the next time, and with as many people as he must see, Charlie recognizes my voice on the phone and connects it to what I drive. Must be all the money I've given them! ;-) I now have two roommates hooked on Superior, and one is a Civic driver and fellow refugee from Salmon's Chevron on 85th (shudder) (side note: if you are a Salmon's customer, stop going now if you value your vehicle and/or your bank balance). I used to dread mechanics as much as the next person. Now I actually look forward to going in for an oil change! These guys are the best. read more

My car is 2000. The previous mechanic (on 15th Ave NW, across Central Market in Ballard) told me I need to replace the engine which I had been driving with the engine light was on for over a month. I declared to that mechanic, I'd rather replace my car than the engine. He proposed to replace a hose & told me that worked after charging me $200 for check up, parts & labour. The engine light was on again in a month & I decided to wait til I find a reliable mechanic for that. Thanks for yelpers' reviews. I have visited Superior Auto yesterday. These guys rock!!! They are professional, honest, didn't ask me to do anything extra. I had a thorough check up, oil change, carbon filter replacement for $270. They explained everything in detail and they were even printed on invoice. Suprisingly, they told me my car was in pretty good shape (ha. if I listen to the previous mech, i'd be in big trouble). I definitely will go back for their superb service even though I have moved to Eastside. read more

I read many Yelp reviews for a few of the higher marked automotive places in the Seattle area and decided on Superior. I'm super glad I did and am very happy with their customer & car service. My manual car was having major issues accelerating in all the gears, mainly 1st. I feared it was the clutch so I emailed for a quote late afternoon on a Friday and received a prompt reply from Sarah. After another question for her I received a response early Monday morning with an apology for the delay in response(no biggie since it was close to closing on Friday) and that she could schedule me for Tuesday. Dropped the car off Tuesday morning and was given a diagnosis and estimate that afternoon. Looks like the car needed a tune up and replacement clutch =/ Sarah said we could probably get by with just the tune up but eventually the clutch would wear out and need replacing. My husband and I decided to just get the tune up... a few hours later we discussed it more and thought we should go ahead and replace the clutch also for fear of other issues arising later if we didn't do it now. When he called to tell them we wanted the full repair done Sarah informed us that she was just about to give us a ring cause the mechanic took it out for a drive and barely got it around the block. I appreciate that they recognized how costly the repairs were and gave us honest advice. All the car work was finished by 5pm the following day and ready for pick up. My husband was running a little late and called to let them know he'd be arriving pretty close to closing at 5:30 but that was no problem he was told. He said there was a line of customers behind him as he left, Sarah was still there to check everyone out past closing. I'm not only happy with the courteous and helpful service we received from Sarah & Charlie at the front desk but with the repairs done by the mechanics. Their work comes with a 12 month warranty or 12k miles, whichever comes first. Our car runs great now! I will definitely be recommending Superior Auto Service to family & friends. read more

So I'm getting my oil changed at this ho-hum-found-a-coupon-for-a-cheap-oil-change place and I told them to keep any eye out for my alternator belts. They came back with a distressed look on their faces. My serpentine belt was shredded they said. One of the guys gave me a quote of $550! Ridiculous, I said. So i jumped on to trust ol' Yelp.com to see if I could find a better mechanic in Seattle. Luckily, Yelp hasn't failed me yet. I went in today, they replaced my belts in a hour and a half (when the other place told me "a couple of days")!! To make the story even sweeter, they only charged me $146!!! I'm definitely referring everyone I know to this place. You won't find better service anywhere else in the city. read more

Four stars because I haven't actually gotten my car back from them yet. But as a person who has serious problems dealing with her car, I picked Superior strictly because of all the glowing things people have said on Yelp, and was pleased to visit their website and find that I could submit a quote online. This meant that I didn't have to call and speak to a real person who would judge me for not taking care of my car. (I let it sit, dead, for 4 months- so technically, I deserve to be judged.) Within 20 minutes of submitting my online quote, I had a response that reassured me that this was the right place to go. They offer a $100 discount for new customers, suggested a towing company (shoulda used another one, but whatev), and suggested I call for an appointment, which I did. They were just as friendly over the phone, and told me if I had my car brought in that afternoon, they could have it ready by the next day. Had car towed in the afternoon. Was called by 10am the next morning with a list of problems. Got to pick and choose and get an exact price quote for what it was going to take to fix. Towing fees, new battery, new ignition switch, labor: around five hundo bones. I'd assumed it was going to be like, $3 grand, so I was THRILLED. Tossed in an oil change and an overall inspection for the future, and I'm just so glad I'm going to be on the road tomorrow with money still in my bank account. read more

I have no problem admitting I really don't know jack about my car and it can be overwhelming to take it in somewhere and have to worry that they'll take advantage of you because of this fact. I've unfortunately experienced this and it makes one very leery of mechanics. But not the kind folks here on Leary! As I type this, I am sitting in their customer waiting area with WIFI! In a nice cushy leather chair! Now, to what really matters---Superior has great yelp reviews because they are a great shop. They are always upfront, honest and understand that you're poor and can only get the necessary things done to keep the 'ol Tercel running. I've only had great experiences with them and I recommend them to anyone who asks about a mechanic. They won't take advantage of your lack of car knowledge and also don't make you feel stupid for not having such knowledge. read more

Really disappointed. I had high expectations based upon the positive Yelp reviews, but this shop could not even properly execute an oil change. I got an oil change from them, drove to work after picking the car up and the "low engine oil level" went on. Huh? After an oil change? I then had to take it back to the shop the following day. After they looked at it, the explanation was that the "oil level was a little low." Hmmmm... maybe check the dip stick before you give it back to me? Seems pretty basic to me. I was not that vocal with the staff about the issue because I wanted to see if they would try to make it right by offering a discount or something else to compensate me for their mistake. Nothing. I will not be going back. read more

I've brought both of my cars in for various services, and I'm impressed. When it comes to work done on the cars, they are careful, and they do a good job. I like that they don't do the "one part or fluid fits all." If your car requires a specific type of fluid or part, that's what they will use; no substitution with inferior stuff. I find this difficult to find at shops, yet I consider it very important. They will also honestly tell you if you have requested something that they don't feel is necessary. They also treat you like a person, and will work with you. Whether it's schedule, work to be done, or trying to figure out a problem, discuss it with them. If you have concerns, ask them, they will tell you. If they have concerns, they will discuss with you too, and that's nice to see. This type of business should be about cooperation, and you'll get that here. These folks understand that the best way to do business is to be honest, do good work, and work with the customers. Repeat customers and recommendations will bring success, and I plan on doing both. read more

After many failed attempts working directly with the dealers, I had to seek out another solution to work on my Honda. At first I had to convince myself it was okay to go elsewhere and I am so glad I did! Charlie and Sarah in the front are awesome. They are knowledgable, friendly and accomodating. I've had major work done and simple oil changes and so far the service has been beyond awesome. At one point, there was clicking coming from my engine and of couse when I'd bring it in for service it wasn't there. So Charlie said that when I hear the clicking, I should drive it over there and they would take a look immediately. Told me to keep the engine running and he would have someone come out and test drive it with me. That is what I did and they were able to diagnose the problem and schedule the appointment. I am quite satisfied with Superior Auto Service and though I hope not to have to go back before my next oil change, I do look foward to seeing them again. read more

The folks at Superior never fail to live up to their name! I've been bringing my car to Superior for a couple years, now, and I've had a great and personal experience every time. Their work is top notch, the turnaround is speedy, and they remember me like I'm a friend every time I come in. Twice, now, I've had to bring my Saturn VUE in unannounced because of odd little mechanical issues while on the road, and they've been completely accommodating each time, somehow managing to work me into their busy schedule with no complaints or extra charges. I always feel confident and comfortable when I bring my car here, and I think you will, too. Perfect stars from me! read more

Having taken my car for almost 5 years now-- I can't believe I haven't written this review sooner. I found Superior Auto Service on yelp 5 years ago when I moved to Seattle. I've been to dealerships and other car places, but none can measure up to the service and customer service I receive at superior auto. Charlie and Sarah are always very pleasant to talk to and always there to address any concerns or questions I have. The techs are meticulous because I have never had any problems with any work I've received. They also never try to up sell or up charge. Total plus since it's a common flaw of many car repair places. I would never take my car anywhere besides superior auto. I started with just taking my car here. Now, I take my car, my boyfriend's truck, his mom's car and his little brother's car. Superior Auto is truly Superior. read more

As with most, finding a car mechanic makes me apprehensive. I came to Superior because of the Yelp ratings and I have not been disappointed in the 3+ years I've been going there. I have a 2000 Accord that has been serviced by only the dealership for the past 10 years, but after visiting the dealership in Seattle I've preferred Superior. I've primarily gone to Superior for check-ups, and they always give me a full report of every thing that could be improved, big and small and give me an honest estimate of what is important versus what would be nice. I really feel like the staff at Superior is looking out for me- trying to make sure that my car runs its best and I take care of it, but don't need to spend an arm and leg to keep it in mint condition. My favorite Superior story- I had my car in their shop for some minor repairs and then lent it to a friend while I was out of town for work for several weeks. While I was gone, my friend was driving on the 520 bridge and experienced a violent shaking in the car and pulled over to discover that the lug nuts on one tire were extremely loose and the wheel was on the verge of coming off. She couldn't reach me immediately and called Superior (I'd left their contact as the emergency number) and without question they towed her back to the shop and fixed the problem. They were horrified that they might have been the cause (it is equally likely that when she parked on the street someone was trying to take the hubcaps or tire) and gave me a free service in case it might have been them. Honest car mechanics. Not an oxymoron. Although I live in South Seattle, I always find it worthwhile to go back. read more

I have taken my car to Superior twice... One time was for alternator trouble, and the other was for a bent axle. I was satisfied both times. On a separate occasion, I got an estimate from them on a brake job, then went to a so-called "affordable" place to get a price comparison, and the other place gave me a much higher quote on the same work!! So that made me trust Superior even more. The guys at Superior have so far proven to be pretty trustworthy, and they do quick work. Give 'em a shot! read more

I wrote a review over a year ago and have been a client for Superior Auto for five years and with various cars both new and used. The service is great, they back their work and treat both me and my wife with respect. Actually I think my wife now knows more about our cars then me because of Superior Auto's great service. These guys are a trusted local auto shop for Seattle. Went there because they were in my neighborhood but now I'd travel across town for them. read more

Everything about this experience felt good. I was on the verge of giving up on my 25-year-old Jetta when I decided to take it in for one last diagnosis for its acceleration and idle problems. I realized quickly that they were completely honest and up-front about everything during the entire process. I never interacted personally with the mechanics, but Charlie at the front desk was amazing in the way he carefully explained all of the problems and potential fixes to me. I will return to Superior for anything in the future. read more

Holding off bumping up to a 4 star review for about a month. I brought my Mazda in for a clutch replacement in October 2013 after reading some great reviews on Yelp and Google. They were very open with how they'd be pricing out the replacement clutch, and talked me through the entire process. They had the new clutch in quickly and had me back on the road in 48 hours. A month after the clutch was replaced, it started making a 'whirring' noise anytime it was released. I didn't have a chance to bring it back in until January, but I had it looked at by another service shop who said that the clutch had been installed incorrectly. To Superior's credit, they got me back in quickly and honored the 12 month warranty on the installation. No issues so far, but I'm giving it a bit longer to make sure the job was done correctly this time around. edit: Everything is running great, and Superior was awesome about being communicative about the process (again). I'd definitely recommend them for any vehicle issues. read more

I brought my own car to this shop several years ago and had a great experience so when my fiance's car needed service after failing an emissions test, I didn't think twice about suggesting that we bring it to Superior Auto Service. The car failed the emissions test on a Saturday, and I drove in the car when the shop opened at 8:30 am the following Monday. I didn't have an appointment but I didn't care if they got to it right away or not. By 10:30 am on Monday I had a diagnosis and two options for repairs - one cost-effective/repair only and the second for repair plus a coolant flush (recommended but not necessary). I authorized the repair and by 3:30 pm, I had a call that the car was ready to be picked up. The final bill was less than the estimate and the car passed the emissions test the following morning. It's really wonderful to have a garage that I can trust. read more

I've tried several auto mechanics in Seattle and Superior has the best service and pricing. Charlie and Sarah in the front office are always friendly and helpful. They will assist you with the research to find the best pricing and won't hesitate to refer to you to a local shop for service. Their oil changes are very reasonable and the mechanics will show you specific issues or parts that need repair. This atmosphere of transparency is much appreciated. read more

What a great auto shop. I took it in for some engine problems, they identified the problem and gave me a quote which was highly reasonable, plus they identified a couple of things to "watch" for, but didn't push them to be fixed. Great customer service and follow-up, and very competitive rates. Then I had a different problem so I brought my car in again, and asked them to validate something the Ford dealer service department had told me (that my head gasket was leaking and they quoted me $2000+ for a repair. Their mechanic figured out it was actually a leaking water pump that made it appear to be a leak from the head gasket. What a huge difference! Awesome place - I highly recommend it. read more

I have been going to Superior Auto Service for a while now- I appreciate their honest, helpful advice. Every fix they have recommended has been worth it. I will continue to patronize them in the. future. read more

Been going here for years. Great work and great service at a fair price. Just yesterday they gave me a quote and my final bill was nearly $100 less because they sourced a part for a lesser price in the meantime. read more

Not much to say really. I had initially planned to go to Stingray down in LQA since they were cheaper, but they were booked for the next couple weeks, and these guys were a lot closer. So I called, set up an appointment for the next day, and brought my Accord in - half an hour and $45 later, my oil was changed, my fluids had been topped, and not a thing extra was being sold to me (they did let me know that my air filter would probably need replacing the next time I had my oil changed, but I had expected as much anyway), all of which I appreciated greatly. In fact, they had initially estimated 45 minutes, so finishing ahead of schedule was a nice plus. read more

I've been using Superior for about a year now - everything from regular oil changes and maintenance to used car inspections to air conditioning service to more involved engine work. All of it went smoothly and turned out exactly as promised. The staff is extremely friendly and diligent all around. Best yet, they are honest to a fault - one of the projects I hhad them do actually came in UNDER the quote. When is the last time you took your car to a shop and it cost less than they said it would?! They are easily the best general repair shop I've been to. I highly recommend them. read more

Can't give five stars because I didn't actually do business with these people, but: I needed a tire repaired and this was tops on the Ballard Yelp list. I called in to make an appointment and a very helpful guy named Charlie informed me that while he'd be happy to make the repair I needed, I was probably better off going to another business in town (the Good Year tire center on Market). I did go there and I got phenomenal service. I appreciate that kind of honesty and I won't forget it. Thanks. read more

First off my initial problem with my 1993 Jeep Grand Cherokee was it was leaking radiator fluid -badly so I initially wanted to take it to a service dept closer to where I live (Bellevue) then for the rest of my problems have Superior take a look at them, but I took the chance that my jeep wouldn't overheat and die along the way and I was very glad that I took that chance! They got me in right away, Sarah and Charlie were very nice, after the initial inspection which was very thorough, he talked with me and explained in detail priority to non priority what exactly was wrong with my jeep. Turns out my Radiator, Water pump and Thermostat was kaput. 200,000 miles that would be expected. To make a long story short, please don't hesistate to take your vehicle to them, one thing that scares me the most is getting ripped off and I never felt that way at all with them. They have my business for life! read more

I've been going to Superior about a year and a half. After previously getting serviced at my Saturn dealer, or ad hoc places around Ballard, this place is fantastic. They fix only what I bring it in for, and have fair prices. Today, my "Service Engine" light was on; they checked it (in just 15 minutes"), said it was a minor matter, and sent me on my way without charging me. A few weeks ago, same thing (I hate that "Service Engine" light!). They originally thougth it would be an expensive repair, but after looking into it. they said really I just needed a filter (can't remember which), and as I'd had that filter replaced less than a year ago, it was still on warranty. Again, I was charged absolutely zilch. read more

My car (VW Golf) broke down on a Sunday, and I had it towed to Superior. They were able to look at it the next morning, gave me a call to tell me the estimated cost at 9am, and at 3pm they called me to let me know it was done, under the estimate. What amazing service! I've been going to Superior for regular maintenance and repairs for almost 2 years, and I've gotten high quality, professional and friendly service every time. Their technicians usually leave actionable details in their notes. I will keep coming back as long as I own a car in Seattle. read more

Another amazing experience with Superior Auto! They got me in right away and were friendly and professional. The advisor Keith took the time to explain all recommended repairs and answer all of my dumb car questions :) Thank you!! read more

I shall keep it brief. Looked for a shop to perform a front brake job on the wife's car. Got a price from Superior that was not the cheapest, but fair, given the location of the business and the quality of the work offered. Of course, once the vehicle was inspected by the tech, we were informed that both front and rear brakes ought to be replaced. Having had the rears done about 3 years ago, it seemed reasonable to assume that they too were about due for renewal. Long and the short of it, the original price doubled, but we had double the work done! Nice to get the $100 new customer discount which alleviated the pain somewhat. So for new rotors, pads, wear sensor, fluid flush etc. we were in for considerably less than $1000 but it's nice to know they warranty the job and we won't have to incur that cost for another few years, at least. All in all, I would go back there again. In fact, I aim to take one of my many land yachts in for an inspection and we'll see if my pocketbook can stand another battering to keep The Fleet on the road. read more

Went in with a "what if" question and some information off of the internet. Pulled a mechanic out to talk with me - costed out the repairs, let me ship the parts I wanted from a different supplier, then sorted out the issues when the parts didn't come in correctly. Very fairly priced - knocked a few hours off when it was obvious the "book" price was counting same work twice. Couldn't ask for more - great customer service, good work, fair price, and really nice and helpful. read more

Had our first experience with Superior Auto Service today, and so far, we're pretty happy. Went in for a basic oil change along with a belt replacement, but with 70,000+ miles on the car, we knew there were a few other issues. They called to confirm the other issues, and we're scheduled to have the work done tomorrow. So far, pricing is comparable to others in the area, but they are uber-convenient (zipped home on the 28 bus after car drop off), and the folks have been lovely (especially Sarah, who'd been emailing me with quotes and info prior to the drop off.) I'll update tomorrow after the rest of the service is done - but feeling pretty good about having local mechanics who know what they're doing and not out to take advantage of us! read more

Well, its that time of the year when the weather is getting warmer and my 2003 Ford Expedition needed an AC Compressor. I did not hesitate to bring it to Superior Auto Service because of the great customer service from Charlie, Sara and Robert they know what is needed and will explain everything they have done and found in your vehicle. I would recommend their yearly vehicle inspections because they keep very detailed remarks on your vehicles which you need for any upcoming work and service maintenance. The only thing I would suggest to them is to have maybe a different format on their service invoice with each work items broken down line by line. For example, Engine Oil Change explain the procedure then below many be the standard service interval procedures for that vehicle and below that something like the Oil Change Quality and Change Interval Information to educate the consumer with the parts and description of the work and the cost on the right side with the labor subtotals. This helps my wife understand the invoice a little better since she's not mechanically inclined but with the explanation of the work done its less of a hit to me when I explain the cost to her when she sees the bill. For me I understand it just fine. I think its her OCD. lol. Anyway, I highly recommend them for any vehicle that you own. Sara and Charlie knew my first name right away and that to me is personal customer service. You don't see that very often. Robert the master mechanic is very knowledgeable and happy to answer any questions when you pickup your vehicle. Again, a great team and I will take any of my vehicle to them anytime. I think next time I better bring some donuts. Thank you very much! Joe read more

Charlie and all the staff at Superior are true professionals,,,they call you back and go over your cars repairs needs ...they do not load you up with unnecessary repair items and let you decide what is critical to be done at the time. I took my 2004 Tahoe into them and in the past had my new 2002 F250 Ford in. They know what they are doing and do it right. Tom Spear read more

My Ram 3500 was having some problems and took it to the dealer. They wanted to do things before they would even look at the real problem. Things like installing a factory batteries and a genuine alternator and then charged me to telling me I needed this done before they can look at what I needed fixed. Someone told me to call Scott and I did. Thanks the Lord someone told me this. He fixed my real problem and has done all my automotive work since. I've referred him to so many people and everyone has been completely satisfied. Service and communication is impeccable. It feels so good to have an automotive place I can take my cars to get serviced and know that I will not be overcharged, told that other things need to get done that don't and gets done in a timely manner. Thank you so much! read more

Replaced brakes that didn't need replacement and the car died on the way home. Safe to say these guys aren't your best bet.

Always had outstanding service here, accurate quotes and timelines for things that need to be fixed. None of the classic "all these repairs need to be done yesterday" rhetoric I've heard in the past from other places. They are now my go to for oil changes and any other needs. Highly recommend to everyone I know. Special shoutout to Keith, he's incredibly nice and helpful whenever I call. read more