I recently took my Jeep in after Russell Westbrook in Van Nuys completely ripped me off. I was having issues with one of my windows, it was not rolling up. I also had another separate issue that I asked them to look at. I was charged almost $500 for diagnostics on top of a $1,000 estimate for one the repairs. I declined the services and brought my car in here after finding them on Yelp. I dropped my car off this morning and the repairs were done this afternoon. They charged me less than half of what my estimate was at Russell Westbrook. Darren was great! I would definitely return for maintenance and repairs. read more

We needed a new engine and these guys did all they could to keep the cost as low as possible. They went above and beyond, they fixed some cosmetic things and make some other recommendations. A couple weeks later we had a leaky hose and took the car back and they worked with us and were so helpful even though they weren't sure it was connected to the previous work they'd done. For fair, honest, above average care for your car, check this place out. read more

Darren was nothing but 110% helpful with great customer service nothing but honesty from him he won't recommend anything that you don't need , without a doubt this is the best auto repair shop in the valley you won't regret bringing your vehicle here very knowledgeable & professional every single man in this place great team , I won't ever go anywhere else but to Whitney auto repair I can't believe how good they are but the truth is they just are read more

CAVEAT EMPTOR: this place charges a $110 NON-WAIVED diagnostic fee, even if you let them work on your car. I was also charged more for the part and the actual labor, so BUYER BEWARE! If you have the time, and patience, read on. Otherwise jump to the bottom. Yelp reviews are usually a pretty good indicator of how your experience will be at a business. I've had consistent experiences relying on Yelp, until my visit here. While writing this I'm still perplexed at how many positive reviews this place has despite my own, discrepant experience. Being that this is officially my second review and I am currently keeping my grandma company while she slumbers, I finally have some quality time to write this long overdue (or vice versa?) review. So here goes: It all started when I made the mistake of borrowing my dad's 2000 e320 to attend a work luncheon with my colleague. It had been pretty reliable for the most part, but on this fine day, it juked me good. Of course, it all had to happen in LA, of all places, on the 101 fwy merging onto the 405 south, in traditional LA stop and go traffic, sun overhead and scorching heat -- perfect conditions for an old car to commit suicide. Fortunately, with the car's last ounce of momentum, I was able to maneuver it swiftly onto the interchange's infinitesimal shoulder; just enough for other cars to pass by, avoiding an inevitable shooting. The symptoms: engine would crank, but wouldn't start. Tried a few times with no luck. I called AAA and they dispatched a tow truck to our location. Meanwhile, my colleague and I were baking in an oven, in our suits and ties, with no a/c and the sun unrelenting. The sweat on my face only amplified my desperation as I tried once more at reviving her. You guessed it. Car turns on and I cancel the distress call to AAA. I've never been happier to have a/c. Just short of arriving at our destination, final destination strikes. At that point, I told my colleague to abandon ship and like a good captain I would go down with the ship. Same problem: crank but no dice. I tried the ignition again after about 10 minutes of having the security guards stare cautiously at me. No surprise... hrm. AAA was hailed once more because I didn't want to gamble based on what I knew. This was when I decided to bust out my Yelp app and found Whitney Auto based on its praiseworthy reviews. At Whitney's, I explained to the tow guy what I observed of the car's ailments. Sure enough, after unhitching the car he was able to drive it into Whitney's lot. Based on the impressive reviews before this one, I thought I was in for a treat. However, the only positive experience I had here was when I went into the office to break my bill, Roger (the owner) didn't have all the cash so he just handed me the money to tip the tow guy. He said he'd add it to my bill but it was a nice gesture nevertheless. Unfortunately, that was all. - - - Come time to look at the car, I explained to Roger the same observations I shared with the tow guy. He looked at the car and said he had no clue. Really? No idea whatsoever? The car has a very systematic and predictable problem. Nope. He said he had to do a diagnostic by taking the car for a drive, but not before I authorized him to charge me $110 for it. Sure, $110 is a lot of money, but at least it gets credited to the work done on the car right? Wrong. Roger explained it like this: doctors charged fees for checkups and diagnose illnesses, they don't give credit so why should he? Wait, did you just compare your services to that of doctors? What about standard custom and practice? No signs. No warnings. It's a trap. Predictably, like the car's symptoms, he used the classic line: "You're free to have it towed elsewhere." The cost to tow it back was roughly a couple hundred and at that point I was less concerned about the fee than getting my colleague back to work on time. Fine. After renting a car and getting back to the office, it took me literally less than two minutes on Google to determine the car's problem: camshaft position sensor malfunction. Coincidentally at the same time, I get a call from Roger confirming same. Best $110 spent. He then quoted me $400 for the part and labor, including the diagnostic. According to the invoice: $110 diagnostic, $150 part, $140 labor. Curious again, I looked up the part online: about $50. I looked up the time it takes for a layperson to complete the work: about 20 minutes. Mechanics get parts cheaper and do work faster - when did they start charging $420 an hour? It's a "premium part." It only took them 20 minutes because I timed them. I've installed a boost controller, boost gauge, exhaust, and test pipe on my Evo 9, and piggyback tune, intake, downpipe and fmic on my current 335i. Yeah, I think I can do it... but with the cost to tow it home versus doing it there, again, money well spent. You have been warned. read more

I'm not sure how this place gets great reviews. I've had overheating issues on my car twice in about 3 months - I just relocated to LA from across the country and that lead to some wear and tear to my car. It was totally expected. However, Triple A took me to this certified establishment because it was the closest place to me. The workers called me to explain that I needed my thermometer replaced as well as a hose. Now, I drive a BMW and expect high maintenance prices. However, they tried charging me $800 for this. The second time I had overheating issues I remembered there was a warranty on work they did. I took it back thinking it could be the same issue. They call me and explain it was a completely different hose that ruptured. They changed it for just over $200 and I was pleased. No more than an hour later I get a call stating they need to change a fan on my car because the radiator was still running a little hot. When I asked if this was a repair that could be put off for another week or so I was not given a real answer. Instead the question was danced around until I gave in. This made the total $600. Talk about a huge difference. When I got my car back everything was running fine. Only one thing was a little weird. The fan that I was told would be fixed in order to keep the radiator cool was a lie. The fan that was fixed was actuality to my AIR CONDITIONER. I will never trust these people with my car again. I'm a young woman who truly feels cheated/taken advantage of by older men fixing vehicles. See you never, Whitney Auto. read more

I recently found Whitney Auto Service and have been beyond pleased with their car service, customer service and overall knowledge and friendliness. They are prompt, communicative, friendly and kind. What multiple other local mechanics could not fix (or even locate the crux of the issue) Whitney Auto Service located, solved and fixed the problem within a couple hours. Prices are fair, the shop is pristine and Darren is the best! We have lived in our current location for over 20 years now, and my only regret is not finding Whitney Auto Service sooner. Thank you, thank you, thank you! read more

I too am not sure how they've 4 1/2 stars. In retrospect this place to me is a solid 3 star. For me unfortunately they didn't get the job done and held my car for 2 1/2 days trying to figure it out. Initially I just figured the customer service left much to be desired perhaps because old school "less talk and get her done!" mentality was the motto except ... the job didn't get done, the communication was very poor and after having my car towed to the dealership and them being finished in 1 day with excellent service and communication the entire way really puts things in perspective comparison. They get 2 stars instead of 1 because of a minor part that was replaced and they swallowed that cost but really... that's the least they could of done after having my car that long and NOT fixing it. Sorry guys... I have to recommend trying some place else. read more

After much searching, I've finally found someone who "gets" my truck. Whitney Auto Service wasn't afraid to tackle my 1990 Suburban with aftermarket everything. Friendly, efficient affective, these guys are the real deal read more

After the warranty on my crappy Nissan Murano (do yourself a favor and never buy this make/model of car) expired I needed to find a mechanic and I was dreading it because I hate going into places where they always treat me like a stupid girl. However, I was having more weird problems with my car and couldn't stand it anymore, so I looked on yelp and found Whitney's Auto Service. I swear to god the person who put the right-hand side of my car together was drunk because everything goes wrong on that side. This time my drivers side sun visor broke, the air conditioning wouldn't blow cold air and the drivers side window would roll down, but not back up (you never know just how much you need a window until it breaks - try going through a drive through or parking garage). On cold days I could deal with it all, but going into Summer and being pregnant, there was no way in hell I could deal anymore. Luckily I found Roger who was beyond awesome. He was straight up, communicated with me well and often and didn't treat me like a stupid girl. The price, I felt, was reasonable and I got EVERYTHING fixed at the same time, so I don't have to go back any time soon or at least let's hope - stupid car. Honestly, I am so glad I found this place and I will continue to bring my crappy Nissan here until the entire thing falls apart (like in the cartoons). Maybe I can talk my boyfriend into coming here now too because his dealership charges outrageous prices. read more

I just went in today for a new starter, after being referred by AAA. I did call around and checked Yelp before I decided where to go. They quoted me a very fair price (the lowest price around) but ended up paying an even better price with my AAA discount! It was quick and painless, I didn't even need to leave the shop! They have been around for over 50 years, and with good reason too. Extremely friendly and knowledgeable staff, willing to answer any questions you may have. I would definitely go back for any future maintenance and repair needs. read more

Darren and his staff were great. They didn't try to oversell services. The car was ready on time. I would definitely use them again in the future! read more

Just came from Whitney Auto Service and had a really great experience. I was referred to them by AAA and when I arrived at 7:30am (Monday) the owner, Roger was one of only 2 people there. The technicians weren't due to arrive until 8am, but I thought it was only my battery that needed to be checked, so he went ahead and started to take care of it himself. Upon determining that the battery was pretty much dead, he quoted me two prices and explained that the one that was $5 bucks more was much better quality for a very slight price difference. They had the battery on hand so he went ahead and put it in right there and I was out in less than an hour. As coincidence would have it, Roger's son and I went to elementary school together, which was discovered when Darren came in to ring me up. I had no idea that he worked there when I showed up. So full disclosure that yes, I have a buddy that works at this shop, but it was clear that this is a solid family-run business that you can trust. There is no doubt that they will have my business in the future. They also give a AAA discount! read more

DO NOT GO HERE!!!! This is my first yelp review ever. I feel so strongly about this place I had to reach oI brought my car in to have the AC filter changed. They charged me $110!!! I googled the cost to change the filter and it was between $20-$50. When I brought it to their attention, they patronized me and spoke to me like a hysterical female. So not only are they a rip off, they're sexist! They are close to my work and I brought my car there years ago and thought they were expensive then but decided to give them a second chance. Never again! I read the response from Whitney's. "Allison was mean." "Allison must have been having a bad day." Ladies, I rest my case. read more

Whitney Auto always comes thru for me - Customer for over 12 years - Never felt I was steered in the wrong direction or overcharged they have worked on 7 different cars and always kept us up and running - Yes we have had hiccups on the road on some cars but computers in cars present unique problems even for the dealership I have come to count on Roger and the team to meet my expectations, be honest and treat me right! read more

My experience with Whitney was incredibly good.. almost unbelievable. I had a suspension problem with my 2000 Lexus. Called several repair shops and my regular Goodyear dealer who services the car in Palm Desert, CA. Everyone wanted between $1,100 and $1,300 to fix my problem. Whitney quoted me $525! I drove 150 miles to have them do the work which they did in 1 1/2 hours! Many of the shops I called were also highly rated on Yelp. So beware... shop in Canoga Park who specializes in Toyota and Lexus.... quoted me the highest ($1,300). It's a jungle out there... do your research and you could save $600 plus like I did! read more

I did a pre-purchase inspection here, Darren was super helpful giving me some advice about the car I was looking at, advised me the car probably not worth it and I should keep looking. Glad that I came here and received these recommendations. read more

There is something to be said for the old, weathered " Whitney Auto Service " sign that rises over their shop: it's called "experience'. I have maintained my own vehicles and/ or used mechanics for 30+ years. The past 10 years, all of our family vehicles have been serviced by Whitney Auto in Van Nuys, period, end of story. I even called for advice when I had trouble on a Kentucky road trip... and got the right answer. From simple maintenance or annoying elusive ' new little noises ' to major work like a new transmission; for our import and domestic passenger cars to my heavy domestic work vans, Roger, Darren and their long-term team of pros have kept my family's fleet in top form. They apparently love both automobiles and people, and it shows in the quality of work and the way they treat a customer. It's no surprise their clean, organized lot and service bays are often packed full, yet they often are able to get an unexpected repair handled same-day. They are located mid-valley in unglamorous, downtown Van Nuys; don't let the location fool you. Whitney is THE place to take a vehicle in the San Fernando Valley, period. Did I mention they are the best ? read more

I needed a pre-purchase vehicle inspection performed while I was test driving and called Whitney Auto and spoke to Darren who said they could take me in right away on a Friday afternoon. Can't believe how quickly they got the inspection done! I will definitely recommend and use for future auto repair needs. read more

This is how it's supposed to be, I think. No hidden agendas with these guys. Straight up and if they express a concern, it's because something really needs to be done. And they REALLY care. Hard to find THAT in any kind of service provided here in L.A. You guys rock! and you own my well deserved loyalty! read more

Strongly recommend. Fast, friendly, knowledgeable and easy to work with. The shop came recommended by AAA and the guy who towed me said this shop was great. It's been passed on generationally so you know there's pride in the service. Darren was great i wouldn't chose anyone over him. He's real and trustworthy. You won't be disappointed. read more

I love these guys. Darren and Roger are the best. They've been working on my cars for at least 15 years and they've always come through. Can't recommend them highly enough. read more

These guys are great! Came in with a dead alternator off a AAA tow, as Id never been here before. Darren was kind enough to give me a lift to my office nearby and had the car ready by 5pm that same day. A few weeks later an oil leak caused the alternator to fail, so I had to have AAA tow it back to these guys from 28 miles away. They were able to get it rebuilt and covered my cost of transportation to pick it up. Darren and Roger are honest guys and fair in their pricing and customer service. I surely recommend them as they are speedy and very responsive and reliable. read more

Came here with a bad clutch in the morning, they replaced my clutch that same day. They got 'er done fast, good clean work, total professionals. read more

I was recommended to this place by a close friend, he spoke very highly of them. I live in Burbank but was not happy with the shop that I was going to for routine maintenance on my truck. My check engine light was on and these guys told me it was my catalytic converter, they had it fixed in no time and I was on my way. A few months later my truck was acting up again and not starting ... Blown head gasket. I towed it directly to them and they had it fixed in just a few days. This shop has great customer service and call before they do any work so you aren't surprised by your bill, they also stand by their work. I will continue going to Whitney Auto as long as I live in the Valley. read more

The best auto repair shop in LA! Roger and Darren are extremely helpful. The best service!

Finding a good mechanic that you can trust is difficult. But I have been going to Whitney Auto Service for years now, and they are great. Don't even hesitate to take your vehicle to them, they will never advise you to do anything unnecessary that you don't need done. It's three generations that have owned this business, and you don't get there by over-charging people or taking advantage. They treat all their customers with so much respect, and they want you to come back. They know their business and will give you the upmost advice and care for your vehicle. Darren and his father Roger are both so nice and professional that I would never even consider going somewhere else. And I know that in the end, they will save you money by only doing what is needed and nothing more. My 2004 GMC Yukon has never run better. And my dad even took his 98 Jaguar to them. read more

I LOVE THIS PLACE. Immediately upon moving out here I started having car troubles (2000 Nissan Maxima). AAA recommended Whitney Auto and I will never look back. Roger and Darren both helped explain the problems with my car and what the process was for fixing them. I have never once felt overwhelmed, pressured, or taken advantage of; and my car has had ALOT of work done. The quoted price has always been accurate and lower than any other shop I've encountered. Recently, my 99 VW Passat was hit while parked and my faith in this garage was confirmed. They let me keep the car there while I figured out how to pay, they gave me plenty of options on how to get the repairs done for cheaper, they basically proved just how awesome they are. I am a committed customer and recommend them to all my friends. Use them. They are amazing. read more

Great place. Great people. Honest and hard working staff that tells you like it is. Can't get much better than that. I've been there for both simple and complex issues and they handled both like a charm. read more

I didn't choose Whitney Auto - I broke down on the 101 and was obviously in a pinch so when AAA said that was their closest recommended location I just said went with it. Now, after they replaced my alternator and battery, I feel really fortunate to have found them. They're a 3rd generation family business and you can tell from their honesty, transparency, and fair prices (based on my online research). I picked up my car next day with no surprises and will drive the 30 minutes back to them next time I need a fair mechanic. Thanks, Darren! read more

I always feel like I'm in good hands at Whitney. When you find someone you trust, you never forget them.

I honestly feel sad writing this review because for the past 2 years I have really trusted this place. But I don't any more. I spent almost $5,000 here to get my car fixed and it only took a day for the check engine light to come back on, now I will admit I didn't take my car back right when the light came back on. But as soon as a had a free day I did and even though I had spent so much money there to "fix" my car when I brought it back in they told me it would be $125.00 just to open the hood and check out the engine. I feel like they have taken advantage of me and I can no longer in good faith suggest that you take your car here. read more

I am so glad I found Whitney's. They are honest, trustworthy, and great at what they do. Fast service and attention to detail. I have an older car and they have provided me with exceptional service and answered all my questions. They have fair pricing and a super attitude. read more

I never write reviews, but Whitney is the most trustworthy bang-for-your-buck service you can get! Darren specifically has helped me through so many crazy car ups and downs and he's always honest about whether it's worth it to do something or not. They do an incredible job and really know their stuff and such kind people on top of it. Support family-owned small businesses!! I would recommend them to anyone! read more

Good customer service. Fast and reliable, they had me out with cold air the same day. Thanks!

I had an immediate emergency with my brakes, and I was luckily very close to Whitney's I pulled up my car, walked in, and was taken care of immediately. Everything went really well, and was extremely fast. My car fixed in only a few hours, and the AAA discount brought the price down more than I expected. I was even shown what broke specifically and how it was fixed which was awesome. I would absolutely recommend them to anyone. read more

I was buying a salvage Prius 2012 and I would like to make sure the car was ok. A person referred this autoshop to check my car. I went to its website and saw that they do NEW PURCHASE INSPECTION. On its website there is a very nice description what they suppose to do to check the car from frame damage to mechanical issues, Whitney website even say "Our job is to advise and protect you...". I was confident they could do a good job. Before call them, I looked some review at yelp. I check most of the 1 or 2 stars to see if they had good reputation. I saw most of them telling that personal were mean and rude. Even though bad reviews, I give a try. I call the guy 8:05 am, so probably they were not that busy. I explained my case to the guy and he said it's easy job, just bring the car to me. I say I have some questions and asked if they plug in the computer too se if the car has any wrong codes besides visual inspection. He say no and said that the car has smogcheck certificate right? If have any codes would not pass. I didn't even mention about smog test whatsoever. How did he know? I was asking my self, what type of inspections is that. Just to you know, anybody with the right equipment could zero the codes on the car and it will show up again only if you drive the car 50 to 100 miles or even more. In another words, if the seller zero the codes before we go to whitiney shop which were 3 miles away from The sellers house, it will never show up on Whitney new purchase inspection. I try to mention it to the guy at Whitney and start rushing me to hang up . Very rude. "Just bring the car here we will take care it". I " thank him" for the amazing customer service ( being sarcastic)and he hang up on my face after saying that he was doing multiple things at the same time. So, trust on the reviews you see here. Whitney personal are rude and don't understand too much about a simple thing which is car codes computers ( one of the most important things when you buy a car-they show basically all what is wrong with a car.) BE CAREFUL . read more

I actually haven't been here in a few years but growing up this was our family mechanic. They are super honest, do great work and are VERY reasonably priced. If only they were closer to me on the Westside I'd go there for everything. read more

After decades of experience with Whitney, I continue to have them at the top of my auto mechanics list. They know what they are talking about, and have done a great job each time, regardless of he make or model of the vehicle I have brought to them. Their honesty (and opinions) about cars they like or don't like is a helpful insight I enjoy. Always customer friendly. read more

My new car repair place! Spoke to the owner the day before I dropped it off. At 7 AM I dropped my car off and it was done by 11:45 (mechanics start at 8:00). I got 2 phone calls as the inspection progressed. I know they're honest because he told me my oil was new- just changed it earlier this week; but he also caught the oil gasket leak which I forgot to mention. He confirmed front brakes needing to be replaced but said rear were fine. And insists I wait for recommended mileage before replacing spark plugs. I'm sold. Car is running great and I saved with AAA! Discount on parts. Small waiting area, but it's air conditioned and seats are cushy, tons of magazines, friendly workers, and they're old school. read more

I also found them through AAA. I needed new rear brakes for my costly Audi and have a oil leak. Roger was a pleasure to deal with. Very upfront about what I needed and what could wait until I had more funds. The price was less than he quoted me and hundreds less than another shop had quoted me. A few hours later and my baby was ready to go. He even gave me an AAA and saved me more money. An honest, reputable mechanic is hard to find (especially being a woman) but I now how one that I can trust and that's a relief ! read more