Had a nail in my brand new tire. Hoping the get it patched up and they did just that! Here we are two months down the road and the patch is still doing it's thing. Great work! read more

United Auto Center - Auto Repair Near Me - Santa Rosa, California

Walt knows his business. Professional, dependable & reasonable. Took great care when I hobbled in with a flat tire the first time, during their lunch hour. They dropped everything. Great guys - earnest, quiet & solid. The small business we want to support. I won't go anywhere else. K. Mitchell read more

This place is so great! Very honest and good prices! Several months ago I asked a colleague who he would recommend I go to for some front end noise. He recommended United Auto Center. I dropped my Mazda 5 off and it was fixed in a few hours. They found a loose nut on one of my struts and only charged me $60. I had other issues that sounded like engine or transmission problems so I took my car elsewhere (unfortunately). I was charged a $250 diagnostic fee. They said they couldn't find anything major and determined I needed a high-mileage oil change to fix the noise because the oil looked burnt. I knew it was bullshit. They charged me $350 and the noise was still there. I did some simple google search on the symptoms and all indications pointed to engine mounts. So I took my car to United (which I should have done first). They said "yeah sounds like engine mounts). They fixed it in no time for a very fair price. When I picked it up, the owner showed me all three mounts. They all had major rips in the rubber. I highly recommend UAC! read more

From start to finish the experience was bad. My partner called because our truck had a light on and we weren't sure what was causing it. When she called, they straight up laughed at her when she explained that she wanted to make an appointment to see what was wrong. She told me that they were very lenient on masking up when she dropped the truck off. She was told the truck would be ready in the afternoon, we waited and waited and it was now 4pm. So she called to see if the truck was ready and was yelled at over the phone about how it was busy in the shop. Great, maybe say "United auto can I put you on hold?" Or if that is too difficult get a receptionist who knows how to treat customers. Found out the truck was ready but they needed to process paperwork and we were quoted $300. When my partner goes to pay a worker asks "do you need help?" She says yes, only to be told "I wasn't talking to you" and he proceeds to help a mechanic. Again, lax on masks. When she finally is helped to get the car after not being warned that what is about to happen is gonna be LOUD, she gets a bill of $390. We won't be returning. read more

Called Walt be cuz he was recommended from CK auto and I asked for a specific tire , but wasn't willing to price match. He wasn't pleasant , got upset when I asked about the price matching ! Just a grumpy old man ! I will NOT deal with people who have a bad attitude I can take my business elsewhere. There are plenty of tire shops in Sonoma county. Sears is my go to place !!! read more

I have been going to Untied auto for over 30 years. Walt and his staff are always honest and does great work. He is always up front and tells me exactly what is needed with my car. They for sure know what they are doing. I highly recommend this place. You will not find honest people like these guys.. Thanks Walt for the great job you have done through out the years. read more

My car did not pass the smog test and the smog test company referred me to Walt and Steve at United Auto. After spending a lot of time diagnosing the many issues that are wrong with the car, they called me to explain in detail the different error messages that were coming up on my car. The main issue that has been ongoing for over a year and had stumped two mechanics, they were able to diagnose! They ended up referring me to the Nissan dealer (Ugh!) as the issues need to be handled by the dealer and did not charge me a cent!! I told Steve at United Auto they had a customer for life. I highly recommend this service center and will be bringing my future business to them. Thank you Walt & Steve! Pamela D read more

They have always treated us great. The service has been exceptional. We have been using United Auto for over 20 years and plan to continue. We also have sent our family and every body we know and They have all been happy with the service and continue to use them. Bill and Suzie Petty read more

Came in for a 30k tune-up (required) on my Hyundai. Went there because of course the dealer was going to gouge me. A fair price and finished as promised. Finally, a business with the same people running the show all these years. Refreshing to not see a constant turn around AND a locally owned business. Thanks for the honest business Walt! read more

Had a problem with the motor in my F150. They agreed to look at it for the cost of 1 hour. They hooked it to a computer, and after 10 minutes determined further work would be very expensive. They let me know immediately and explained the issue very carefully, suggesting the cost of repair exceeded my request to "keep the repair costs minimal". They waived the fee which I could believe; contractually I was obligated to pay 1 hour - very nice of them! Very knowledgeable team with what appeared to be decades of experience. read more

I have been a mechanic most of my life and maintained my own vehicles for years within the parameters of my tools and equipment. Now retired I began a search for a reputable shop to handle a job I simply cannot do without a rack. I was recommended UAC by an acquaintance, so I called them to discuss my issue and an appointment. I spoke with Steve and discussed my back round and my issue and we were in complete agreement as to what was required. I dropped off my car with Steve who reassured me he would be able to get it done by the end of the day. As the day went on into late afternoon, I had received no progress call, update or anything, so I called and spoke to Walt who informed me of the work they would have to perform... the work that I had already laid out and discussed at length with Steve. It was now apparent there was a complete breakdown in their communication, and it cost me a day without my car. Fortunately, I was prepared just in case, so it wasn't a big hardship for me. But at this point my faith in their level of professionalism was broken. Once we got back on track with what needed to be done, in speaking with Walt I approved for them to proceed to include parts replacement. Keep in mind, I had never received a follow up call with pricing quotes for anything! I mentioned this to Walt and he apologized for the lack of communication, yet he failed to call me back to inform me of the pricing for parts and labor for the job! This is just a complete failure within their system. I'm sorry...but if they are charging top rates for labor & parts, I expect the equivalent of professionalism! Not to mention, the part they replaced was not only extremely more expensive than the average price across the board, again...I never got a call informing of this expensive part purchase, or even to give me the option of a lesser priced part! This is simply unacceptable on every level for a professional business. I have to say...and I almost feel a bit guilty for writing this review...but the nicest thing they did was give me a ride to & from home as this is my only mode of transportation. As a side note, I mentioned my disappointment with an employee who told me in confidence that apparently Steve and Walt were not getting along very well lately. Lucky for me huh? Prior to my initial interaction with Steve, the rest was with Walt. So, in closing...if I were asked to give a professional assessment of UAC, I have to say I will not be returning to them for any further work on my vehicle...very disappointing! It was very apparent that Steve completely failed to follow through with service communication critical to the job. I found Walt to be abrasive at best and barely courteous, not to mention he did not show any support for wearing a mask at all! Completely inacceptable in these times! In my years of experience working in many different shops, I have seen similar environments and they just continue to be toxic and detrimental to everyone...especially the customer! It is apparent this business has taken it's toll on both Steve and Walt and their relationship, and I honestly believe it's time to turn the reigns over to someone else who will help rebuild this business, and just enjoy your retirement. It's simply not worth being miserable every day. Maybe you don't see it but trust me...it shows! Regrettably...a very disappointed customer. read more

My coolant was leaking and was quoted at a different shop for over 900$. I called a spoked to Walt. He gave me an affordable estimate. I brought my car in right away. One hour later he called me to inform in what looked like my car been in an accident from the inside. I was shocked and that also meant more things needed fixing = $$$. He quoted a few more hundred may be added to fixed the issue. When I came to pick up the car. To my surprise the cost was still reasonable! They even went out of there way to fix my air filter cover (the latch was broken), my visor ( i slammed it a bit to hard, so it was slightly hanging) at NO EXTRA CHARGE! Truly most compassionate people work here. THANK YOU for for all you do. You have gain another loyal well deserved customer. read more

I was referred here by my mechanic when I needed to get a smog check. Walt, the owner, was very nice and accommodating. I went in without an appointment and we were done in about 20 minutes. The smog check was $53, a really good price compared to some of their competitors. They are located right next to Lola's market, a Mexican grocery store, so its fun to wander around while you wait. There waiting room was taken over by Walt's small dog Ginger, but she was also very friendly and fun to play with...she's has a mean tug-a-war! read more

Very attentive, efficient, and professional. I went in with a leak in one of my tires, and Walt diagnosed and fixed the problem within fifteen minutes...hardly felt like a delay for our Tahoe drive. read more

My car was at Honda for airbag recall/fix and an alignment for new tires from Costco. Of course they found other issues (surprise). I spent the afternoon getting a second opinion. Glad I did as it wasn't a necessary repair and saved myself $275 ;-) If you ever need a great mechanic who has been in business 45yrs, who knows what they're doing and won't rip you off; check out United Auto (next to Lola's) on Petaluma Hill. Walt (and his Jack Russell) is the owner and Bill is the mechanic who took the time (on a phone call & one hour notice) to do the diagnostics. Can't say enough good things about them. read more

I've gone to United for over 15 years and they've been great right from the start. They don't overcharge even when they could have gotten away with it since I know next to nothing about cars. Walt is a good man his shop deserves every one of these stars! read more

I was very impressed by the great costumer service and help that was provided here for my vehicle. This is by far my best experience with a mechanic. I would highly recommend United Auto Center. read more

Had my Prius aligned and the found the rear axle had been bent. Left rear tire was pointed outward. They ordered a junk yard axel in three days and saved us about $1,000 over buying a new one. The job was done in about 3 hours once the axle was in. I bringing my truck in for alignment next. read more

I have taken my truck into this shop every time that hated check engine light comes on, or some strange noise starts up. Every time I go in, the guys are friendly, ready to listen, and make sure to check it out completely. What I like most is the call back I get when the job is done. I have had other mechanic shops overbill me, and this place is the opposite. They work to keep the costs low, and if more work is needed, they will call you first and explain what the options are, and let you make the decision. I really appreciated that. read more

Walt and his team are the best around. They take the time to fix your car RIGHT the first time. The service is awesome and they are so nice to work with. A great gem!!! read more

Walt has been taking care of my entire family for years. Fixing all my car problems over the years at a fair price. These guys do their best and it shows. read more

United Auto is great. I was referred to them by another shop (a radiator specialist) when my 1997 Chevy was overheating. United Auto successfully diagnosed and repaired that problem, and I now use United Auto for everything -- engine, electrical, brakes, smog certificate, power window failure, broken glove compartment latch -- whatever needs to be done. No job is too big or too small for them. They do great work. Their prices are very good -- because they know what they are doing. Very honest and very experienced. read more

Great customer care the way it used to be at reasonable prices. You can tell a lot about a garage by the people working there. These guys are all mature professionals who have obviously decided to work here long term. My father in law had told me he'd been visiting this location for years and that Walt would do me right. No wonder his cars run so well. read more

These guys are great! Took my Nissan here after it failed smog (at a smog check place). Not only were they able to figure out that the original smog place didn't know what they were doing (the car was fine), they took it to a third smog check place just to be sure. Walter was great, and these guys are honest. I'll be taking my car here in the future & I highly recommend United Auto Center. Thanks! read more

I was referred here by my regular mechanic to have the alignment done on my Acura. When I dropped the car off Walt was polite and informative about the process. When I came to pick up my car an hour later, he explained what they found and what they did to correct the problem. I am very pleased with the customer service and service performed on my car by Walt and United Auto. read more

I have been going to United Auto for several years for my three older vehicles. They always do what needs to be done and no more, to keep costs as low as possible. Two months ago when I was out of the country the brakes on my wife's car failed. Walt fixed them and gave my wife his home phone # in case she had any other problems. The night of 12/22 my car overheated and quit by the side of a country road about a mile from my home. My wife picked me up. I called Walt at home and he said he would come to his garage and put my car inside for the night after AAA towed it there. AAA and I discovered a radiator hose had come off so we put it back on, filled the radiator with water and I was able to drive it to Walt's. The next day he checked everything out, confirmed I did not have a cooling system leak, stuck thermostat or serious problem like a blown head gasket. He replaced the water with coolant. He refused to charge me anything because about four months earlier he had replaced the radiator hose that came off and he said he couldn't prove it had been put on fully at that time. "Merry Christmas" he said. read more

Been taking my classic Plymouth to United for the last ten years, but I understand they work on newer vehicles as well. Just give Walt a call first re your make and model and what the problem is and Walt will let you know. My daughter now goes to United after getting some way overpriced quotes on resolving some issues for her car. Before she put out that much money I told her to get a second opinion over at Walt's. Walt fixed her car for less than what the others were going to charge. Not that United was cheaper but because the corrections to be made were not over inflated. And he tries to work within your budget. I concur with all the other positive comments noted above. I will add that sometimes things take longer than I wish and my car may be tied up a day or two longer than I had hoped for, and sometimes I have to call them to make sure the car is finished and ready to be picked up. But for me these are just minor annoyances. I care more about getting it fixed properly the first time on work that is really needed, not imagined. I would not trade United for anything. Martin read more

GREAT SERVICE!!! The owner, is very friendly and honest, I always go there for any kind of service, this last time I was there I brought a set of wheels for replacement, the guys from the other place sold me the wrong parts and Walter (the owner) was kind to give me a ride to go back to get the wright parts, the pricing for the service was exceptional! They go the extra mile, and the best thing, it feels good to spend my money w/local shops and not with big corporations or dealers. read more

I keep returning here because I feel I get an honest, quality service. The prices are fair, very respectful men, and job done right. I recommend them 100%. read more

We were referred to United Auto for our Ford by the mechanic who worked on our foreign car. That was about 20 years ago, and we've been loyal customers ever since. Good solid service and they stand by their work. Wouldn't dream of going anywhere else for our Ford and they even help with some of the maintenance of our Mini Cooper when they can. Love the guys at United Auto. And Ginger, of course. read more

My daughter is attending Sonoma State, and had a flat tire over the weekend. She went to pep boys on Sunday to repair her tire that is almost new and was told it could not be done and needed a new tire. Well (1) tire means (2) and on top of that they didn't have the right size and wanted to sell her a different size. I live in the bay area and made some calls and found Walt, when I found out that I was speaking to the owner of the company and how friendley he was I sent my daughter there,and he was able to repair her tire for $15.00 dollars I was not only happy but more than satisfied...Walt you have a customer for life, thank you Walt.....Bill L. read more

Walt and the guys are great. I've been taking my personal and company cars to them for over 10 years. They not only know their stuff and do good work but they will throw in an "extra" for free when they notice a little something wrong. My favorite thing is that my personal car is older - they are frank about what is worth repairing and what is not. Honest, dependable and good rates. read more

I went in for an Oil Change and asked for a quote. The guy didn't get me an actual estimate but just started saying well service is 22 the filter is about 12.... by the end of it I figured it would be around $30-40. So I made an appointment for later that day to have it changed out. Long story short, I was there for an hour and a half just for an oil change. Sitting in the waiting room on a very hot day while 8 months pregnant for that long was miserable... The staff was friendly and offered extra things like changing my air filter (which I had them do) and rotate my tiers (which I didn't do).... However after the bill was written up they charged me $93 for an oil change and air filter. I was not happy about that at all, I've never spent more than $35 on an oil change. I will not be going back here. read more