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Almaden Auto Repair
Category: Automotive Auto Repair Auto Repair [Edit]
1680 Almaden ExpySte D
San Jose, CA 95125
(408) 292-1260
Announcement
Free 27 Points Safety Inspection.
Welcome Yelpers !
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 9 am - 6 pm
75 reviews for Almaden Auto Repair
75 reviews in English
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Review from James N.
2/19/2012 1 Check-in Here
No wonder this place has 5 stars ! I never felt so comfortable and welcomed at an auto shop before. As soon as my girlfriend and I walked out of our vehicle, the owner came out from his garage and greeted us as if we were regulars. He asked us what job we needed to be done with our car and we told him that we needed an oil change. The shop closes at 6pm and we came at 5:30 and the owner and head technician, Thai, was more than happy to take our car in for an oil change.
When you go into the front desk, you fill out this form with your information and your vehicles information which include:
Year/Make/Model:
Miles:
VIN:
After filling out the form, you leave the clipboard, form, and keys at the desk and the worker will take care of it for you.
They will take your car out for a quick spin to see if there is any problems that they can diagnose from the drive itself. No need to worry, they only do a quick circle at an empty business intersection.
During my oil change, the owner filled up my water, diagnosed my engine, and put my tires to the correct tire pressure while the oil was draining.
The total cost was $22.50 and he gave us the discounted without telling us or us even mentioning anything about yelp.
5 STARS ! Thai is a great man. Very humble and very honest.Listed in: Need to fix your car ?
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Review from Ryan R.
San Jose, CA
Updated - 1/17/2012 3 Check-ins Here
I know I've raved about this place before but here I am again emphatically saying that Thai is the best mechanic and runs the best repair shop in this area. Great service, great prices, and above all of that they are so friendly and helpful.
If you already like your mechanic, I can all but guarantee you will like Thai better :)2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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7/22/2011
I cannot recommend this place highly enough. I took it in today and every time I have brought it… Read more »
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Review from Tommy N.
San Jose, CA
3/8/2012 1 Check-in Here
Went in for an oil change thx to Yelp reviews. It was fast and easy, did I mention affordable? I didn't realize one of my rear brake light was out, Thai replaced it for no extra charge! Absolutely 5 stars!
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Review from Wendy-Rose B.
San Jose, CA
Updated - 3/3/2012 1 Check-in Here
After having shared my feedback on Yelp from my last experience, Thai was very faithful in getting a hold of me and apologizing as well as offering a discount for the situations that occurred prior. Thai has gone above and beyond in improving on the feedback I provided. He has shown that he is willing and able to improve in areas where people feel his business is lacking. Thank you Thai for your hard work and humbleness! I look forward to getting my car serviced here in the future, knowing it is in good hands.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/31/2011
I had a hard time deciding between a 1 and 2 star. I don't have many, if any, expectations that… Read more »
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Review from Alissa A.
Phoenix, AZ
6/6/2011
I hate going to mechanics. But after ignoring my check engine light for a year and failing my smog test because of it, I finally had to get the problem taken care of. After seeing the reviews on this place, I decided to give it a try and am so glad I did!
I brought my car by early on a weekday morning with no appointment. Thai called me later on that day and explained in detail what the problems with my car were and exactly how much it would cost down from each part to labor. As I was on a budget, I told Thai I was just trying to get enough fixed to get the CEL off. He was completely understanding and didn't try to pressure sell me on getting repairs I didn't want.
My car was ready the next day, and it was actually slightly cheaper than Thai quoted. Later, I even got a detailed invoice e-mailed to me for my records. I would definitely recommend this place and plan on coming back for any future repairs! -
Review from Ting W.
San Jose, CA
6/4/2011
5 stars for service
5 stars for not over charging -
Review from Ray O.
San Jose, CA
Updated - 1/25/2012
Thai is a nice guy. He has apologized numerous times, and has sent me back a check for the inconvenience I encountered.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/10/2011
I will never come here again, nor will I recommend this place to anyone.
1. I scheduled an… Read more »
Comment from Thai N. of Almaden Auto Repair 2/7/2012
Hi Ray, Thank you for your review ! We pledge our continuing… More » -
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Review from Clark W.
San Jose, CA
9/30/2011
Two years ago, I found this repair shop through a Yelp search and couldn't be happier.
I've taken both of my vehicles here for major repairs and have found that they do excellent work at half the cost of a repair shop with an auto dealer. Thai Nguyen is always very conscientious, warm and honest about the work needed and his estimates are always concise and clear.
Be aware that it's not a dealership but I've always received quality work at a discounted price. I won't take my cars anywhere else. -
Review from Jessica L.
San Jose, CA
1/29/2012 2 Check-ins Here
They say, "find a reliable auto-mechanic and you'll be set for life"..................or something along those lines. Anyway, I found mine! Thai is zee best! He is very friendly and his service is always quick, reliable, and priced below competitors. The last time I got an oil change here, I checked in and got 30% so it was $16 - SCORE!
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Review from Will N.
San Jose, CA
1/7/2012
Took car to Almaden Auto today. Been going here for the past two years, mostly for oil changes and minor tune-ups. I took my wife's 02 SAAB with 77K miles here for an oil change a few weeks ago, no issues. Good service. What I questioned however was the car is Turbo and takes synthetic oil per SAAB but Thai's team put in normal 10W30 (my wife told him to use Semi - Synthtetic but he said it is not requirement even though SAAB recommends - perhaps because they do not have semi ).
This was the third time he has done oil change (10W30) so maybe it is not related but very much a coincidence because it was days after the last oil change when engine started acting up. Not sure if this issue is related to oil but now car is making a loud buzzing sound from under the engine, I dropped the car off on Sat 10AM and he said he would call. 4:30 rolls around no call so I call for update. He said he will call back. He does at 6:15 telling me I need starter because it is making noise when it starts. Wait a minute, the starter does not spin except for starting how can it make noise while engine is running?
When I got to shop to pick up car he said the only noise he heard was from starter and it would be 400$ for replacement and he still needs to inspect fly wheel. Bottom line is Thai never asked me to show him where the noise was coming from - I had to ask him to come to car so I can show. When I picked up car and I questioned him he said "what noise are you talking about only sound i hear is from starter" Sounds like he never opened the hood to try and hear, he just started car, turned off and called.
He was going to charge me to replace starter when issue i have has nothing to do with starter. I am no mechanic but i have enough intelligence to know a faulty starter has nothing to do with a constant high buzzing noise. Starters don't do anything but crank the car.
My impression of Thai has changed for good. I felt all he cares about is getting my money rather than making a conscience effort to hear the customers issues. He is not honest, definitely was not in this case. If he can not fix issue he should have told me so rather than waste my time. I would have respected his honesty. He ended up not charging me for the diagnostic but the principle is he was dishonest and I don't appreciate that and I lost a lot of respect for him.Comment from Thai N. of Almaden Auto Repair 2/10/2012
Hello Mr Nilli, Thank you for your review! I'm apologize for… More » -
Review from Eugenia S.
San Jose, CA
4/5/2011
First of all, let me say this - if you are Yelping around for a place to get anything done on your car, close all of the other tabs you probably have open and go straight to Almaden Auto Repair.
I despise dealing with my car (2004 Saab 2.0t). Whenever it beeps a message at me saying that something is wrong or makes an odd sound, I instantly feel sorrow and anger. This happened recently - I heard a loud metallic screeching noise every time I used my breaks. I already knew what it was (my lack of break pads/ rotors). Yes, this has happened to me before. Yes, I know I should have learned my lesson the first time. To everyone that doesn't know - replace your break pads before they get completely obliterated, otherwise you will be paying a nice extra sum to get your rotors replaced too. It is expensive and unnecessary.
Anyways, when I started hearing these sounds, I was particularly sad because last time I needed to replace my front rotors and break pads (2) it cost me a little over $450. This time, the same thing was happening with the back pair. So, I decided to look around Yelp and see if I could find some place that could do it for a little cheaper. I decided to go to Almaden Auto Repair. I will never ever go anywhere ever again. Thai provided EXCELLENT customer service - always shook everyone's hand, remembered everyone's name, offered people water, candy, etc. He is seriously the nicest auto technician ever. A little girl who was there with her mom even picked a flower for him. Point proven.
He explained in detail how everything would be done, and quoted the job for $285. This included them going out to get the part for me. As I learned when signing for the work, this price already included taxes (a pleasant surprise). His team had also apparently done a brief inspection of my car, because they noticed that I had not changed my oil in a long time (whoops). I got this done as well.
The bottom line is that I would never expect myself to be happy after getting work done on my car. Somehow, I am. Thai is very accommodating and an absolute pleasure. Plus, now I have a shiny #1 key chain as a souvenir from the shop. I'll be back! -
Review from Nissa Z.
San Jose, CA
5/19/2011
Thai is a genuine nice guy. My husbands 97 Jeep Wrangler was making some noise and revving high. So I yelped a few places for him to take it into when I came across Almaden Auto Repair.
Before my husband could get it there I got a call stating he was on the side of the road. Turns out his serpentine belt broke, the water pump was damaged and a few other things. Woo hoo! Just what a car owner loves to hear...NOT! Thai took care of the repairs and when we picked it up everything sounded good and ran perfect. We went to the movies that same night and when we were leaving the car started to rev high again. Called Thai and he told us to drop it back off. He figured out the issue, something with the rpm valve? We got the car back the next day. Still needs a little more work but the part has to be ordered. She's had a lot of miles put on her so she just needs the TLC right now.
Thai takes his time to explain what's going on with the car, what it could be caused by and how it's fixed. Glad we found a repair place that we can trust and isn't overpriced like the car dealerships.
Without a doubt...we'll be back. -
Review from Candace L.
Los Altos Hills, CA
Updated - 3/11/2011 1 Check-in Here
Just came in today for an oil change and a smog test. Service was quick and efficient. I can't believe how amazing customer service is here. Other companies should use this business as a model.
Prices are super reasonable and affordable. I would recommend Thai to anyone. Definitely the go-to guy for all your car trouble needs.
Location is industrial and a little run down, but don't judge a book by it's cover. The office is clean and the garage fully equipped. This place is always busy when I go there, so calling ahead and making an appointment is recommended. If you're in a bind, as I have been before, talk with Thai and he'll fit you in the very next day. That's what I love most about coming here.
Overall, I would drive from Santa Cruz to here for an oil change.... and I did! Yay!! And I left a happy camper. :D1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/5/2011
Thai is awesome. Super friendly, knowledgeable, and affordable. Have car trouble, Thai is your man.… Read more »
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Review from Brittany D.
San Jose, CA
5/24/2011 1 Check-in Here
Besides the amazing reviews on yelp (thanks everyone) I took it as a good sign when I saw a line practically out the door.
Thai is honestly the nicest most genuine man ever, his crew is just as polite and they were very honest with what my 2009 toyota corolla needed.
After going to the dealership and getting hit with a $700 bill you can bet I wasn't too thrilled. Especially because I had no idea what any of it meant. Luckily I know better than to actually let the dealership and do the services so I did my research on yelp and found this place. Before they started they went over what I needed to do and stopped me from getting things I didn't need, made sure I had everything I needed before leaving, called me to confirm what would be going on, was accurate with how long it would take, called and politely let me know my car was ready ON TIME, gave me a free keychain and coke :) & called the next day to see how my car was driving.
If that isn't excellent service then I dont know what is. They deserve 10 stars! Never knew I could get treated this great at an auto shop. I know where I'll be taking my car from now on...thanks Thai and your crew!! -
Review from Reo R.
Mountain View, CA
12/29/2011
There are good mechanics and then there are Super Star mechanics. You know Thai is a super star because during the three hours that I've spent there the front office was literally standing room only. Don't be confused by Thai's mild mannered and affable demeanor. The dude is an intense, efficient, no nonsense floor general who makes you feel reassured and gets the job done right. I came down armed with hours of internet research on why my car failed smog. Thai quickly tested my car and found the problem. He saved me $150 from going to a Gold Shield shop and gave me a decent price on a California hipster certified catalytic converter. I passed with flying colors and couldn't be happier.
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Review from Connie C.
San Jose, CA
10/11/2010 1 Check-in Here
Thai is so genuinely nice and runs a well-oiled shop that it's clear why he gets so many glowing 5 star reviews. It was so great to see that he's so proud of them too, because they were printed out and posted on the wall of his tiny office/waiting room.
I found him - where else, but with the Yelp App - and called in to make a same day appointment for an oil change. While you need to allow an hour for the appointment, it's because his guys are being super thorough. And for $30, it's such a deal. Especially when Jiffy Lube usually charges me $75.
While I waited for my car, Thai offered me a Coke and even chatted it up with me, even though he was super busy taking calls and filling out paperwork. I even witnessed him offer one of his regular customers, who had a small child with her, to take the keys to his own car so she could go home and come back after her car was done. Now that's some trusty customer service! -
Review from Whitney I.
San Jose, CA
3/11/2011
I felt very taken cared of here. The quotes were reasonable and the service was exceptional.
Thai made sure to completely explain everything in a clear and unhurried manner and let me make the decisions unpressured.
I completely recommend this repair shop. -
Review from ZergRush E.
Sunnyvale, CA
2/19/2011
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...Wow..these reviews are true; I went to test out the waters because of these reviews haha.
Thai and his business deserves 5 stars or even more! Thai is a a very pleasant person to talk to--first thing he does is greet you with a smile and handshake--how often do you get that?! Prices are very reasonable--quoted me the brake price and the fluid change (actual price for fluid change was within range)--, compared to other mechanics I been to.
My main visit was to have my transmission fluid changed and front brakes inspected (free/winter special).
He was honest and upfront about my front brakes, and went the extra mile to inspect back brakes! And found out my back brakes (replaced before) we're going out compared to my front (never replaced). Thai explained when I should have them changed..think my prior mechanic would have told me to change them at that moment.hah. I'm glad they're not here to make a quick buck, but to make the customer happy.
Also, Thai and Co., are pretty quick. Had my brakes inspected + transmission fluid changed in around an hr and 30minutes.
Because of the great experience, I think I'll visit him for all my automotive needs...and hopefully get a can of soda that other yelpers are talking about. =P. -
Review from Grace K.
San Jose, CA
11/3/2010
I'm glad to finally have found the guys for my car. I can trust Thai without having to bring a guy in an autoshop so I don't get ripped off as a young female. I'm thankful for all the reviews that I based my decision upon! I had to shop around to change my timing belt and Thai offered the most competitive price. Not only was he friendly and honest (I'd requested transmission fluid change but he said it wasn't necessary yet), he let me borrow his personal car to use while my car was in the shop!!! He showed me ALL the work that had been done and never showed a sign of frustration for a million questions I asked. I once again went back for my brake change and he was so prompt, kind, and professional. Of course, he gave me an option to change my rear brakes in 3 months because they could last that much longer.
Competitive price, well qualified mechanics, honesty, and professionalism. What more can you ask for? -
Review from Dylan N.
San Jose, CA
2/18/2011
They are very understanding and will work with you no matter what the situation is. And don't forget, best prices in town.
After calling Thai(the owner) about my 90k service with timing belt and water pump on my Lexus gs300, I was really happy that his price was so affordable! The following day I dropped off the car, shook his hand and went on my way to work. Later on that evening I found out that I would be short on money due to an event. I called the shop to leave a message(it was 9pm) for him to just do the 90k. I think it was forwarded to his cell phone and amazingly he picked up and remembers my name. I told him my situation and he said okay! With no problems. Loving this place already. As far as customer service, this shop got everyone else beat. -
Review from steve s.
San Jose, CA
2/14/2011
Thank you Thai, and thank you Yelp! I found this place here on Yelp! And have since completed a major service. I didn't even bother going to my dealer since I knew I would get raped. They took care of everything, great customer service, great communication, and fast!
I messed up and forgot to write down that they shouldn't change the oil since I had just done it a few weeks earlier. I mentioned it but didn't write it down. When I came back and realized that it had been done I talked to Thai, and he went and bought the full synthetic oil that I use and removed the charge for the oil and the labor. This was the right thing to do but not only did he do it with a smile, but it was done fast.
I will definitely be coming back here, and have already told two friends about the place who were having trouble with other mechanics. Good Work Thai! -
Review from Dani K.
San Diego, CA
12/15/2011
This was the best experience I have ever had at an automotive repair shop. All I got was an oil change, but Thai's customer service was outstanding and his prices were amazing. He honored his discounts and I didn't even need to bring any coupons in. I was in and out of there in 30 minutes and in that 30 minutes almost a dozen people walked into the shop and Thai had a great reputation with each and every one of them. They were all happy to see him and he was nothing short of the most professional auto mechanic I have ever met. I will definitely be going back again and again.
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Review from Ronald S.
San Jose, CA
2/20/2011
Our experience at Almaden auto was exceptional; we recently had an estimate done at the Toyota dealer for a Toyota Sequoia for brakes which made us gasp for air so we looked around for a less expensive way to get them done. We remembered Thai from 2003 prior to opening his own shop he had done a service on our Sequoia and had done a great job while saving us money. We brought the vehicle to Thai on Thursday evening and he quoted a price that could not be beat and he said the brake job would be done in one day. When I went to pick up the vehicle Thai took it for a test ride to ensure it was done the way he wanted it ( Customer service ). As you can tell I was very happy and will continue to use Almaden Auto for all our repair needs. Thank you Thai!
Ron & Silvia -
Review from Mark F.
San Jose, CA
Updated - 11/29/2011
Thank you Thai for keeping what you said you would do by repaying me for filling your tank in your vehicle and for allowing me to use it when I have no immediate family within the area. I do appreciate your honesty and that alone will keep me coming again and again. Once again, thank you and Merry Christmas.
3 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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10/20/2011
After getting my car back I noticed the light for the battery would turn on and then off and… Read more »
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Review from Sanjose K.
San Jose, CA
Updated - 9/23/2010
God damn Audi! I love Thai, I just hate my car ;). OK it's 10 years old, so maybe time to upgrade. I knew this was going ot be a really expensive repair, so I had been holding out. Thai only charged me $100 labor on a $1,000 part. Wow, thats amazing. He also called me to let me know my part hadnt come in yet, so as to not waste my time bringing the car in prematurely. The part came in later that day and I had my car back the next day at 4 PM. Service is top notch, and now my pain-in-the-neck car is running smoothly.
We now take all THREE of our cars (including a service van) to Thai. He is the best.2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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4/23/2010
Unfortunately within weeks of getting my car fixed, the engine light acme on again. Thai took it… Read more »
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Review from Tracy M.
San Jose, CA
12/17/2010
unbelievable service and reliability -- and magnificently reasonable prices! I stumbled on this place for an oil change -- a girl was there who the owner addressed by first name, so I asked her how long she has been coming to the shop with her car, and what her experience was like. She raved with detail upon detail supporting her rave. Since then, I have gotten substantial work on my Element, and have always been addressed by name!
If you are thinking of owning a company, study this owner and his workers. You will succeed -- outstanding customer service, generosity, and trustworthy work. Thank you Almaden Auto for the experience! You deserve all your success! -
Review from Cat M.
San Francisco, CA
4/19/2008
GREAT SERVICE!! One of the few places I completely trust!!
Whether you drive an import or domestic car, you want to take your vehicle here for service. The owner, Thai, has been working on cars for 20+ years. He is certified, totally genuine, honest and fastidious. He offers quality service, guarantees and all, at affordable prices.
I actually found them because I had a broken side-view mirror and motor. The dealership charged me $750 to fix it, but one of the guys there suggested I check out Almaden Auto Repair when I said I couldn't afford the high price. He told me he worked with Thai at another dealership years ago, and highly recommended him. Thai and his crew ended up fixing that same side-view mirror for $250!!
Don't waste your money at the dealerships or shops where they often overcharge and add on "repairs." I always feel like I can trust Almaden Auto Repair.
You may have a little bit of a wait because it's a smaller business but the service is definitely worth it. -
Review from True P.
San Jose, CA
Updated - 11/24/2010
Have been back and must say, this place is great! Very affordable oil change and fast service.
Even brought my husband's Ford Escape for a 35k service. Not only was the job done perfect, the cost was half the price the dealer had quoted.
Glad to find a local honest and good quality auto repair shop. Will bring all our vehicles to Almaden Auto Repair shop from now on.
Highly recommend this shop, you will not be disappointed!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/13/2010
Thai is truly awesome! Read about this place from fellow yelpers and was not disappointed. Took my… Read more »
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Review from Rita F.
San Jose, CA
9/15/2009
Thai is awesome. We have been going to Thai for at least 7 years now. He knows what he is doing and he will NOT charge you ridiculously high prices like the dealer does. For example, I was at Toyota because I needed to get copies of my electronic keys. They happened to do a "free check" and discovered my brake pads were run down. They quoted me $375 for front brake repair. I took my brake issue to Thai and he replaced my pads for less than half that quoted price.
Thai takes care of all our car needs from oil changes to tire rotation to brake issues to tune ups to checking why that stupid "check engine" light is on. If you want a great deal and excellent work on your car, bring it in to Almaden Auto Repair. -
Review from DeeJay M.
San Jose, CA
Updated - 5/23/2011
Fourth time back, this time with my dad's Tacoma. After 180K on the stock shocks/struts, every pothole felt like hitting a speed bump at 90mph. Thai helped me pick the right parts, the best shocks for the Tacoma. I got great service as usual. He even advised me that the brake fluid needed a flush and the valve cover was leaking oil, so i could take care if it the next time I visited or got my oil changed. Thanks guys.
3 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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12/12/2010
My 96 Honda Civic would barely get into gear (manual transmission). It had 134K miles on it so I… Read more »
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Review from Andrew W.
San Jose, CA
10/5/2011
Dealing with mechanics was always a hassle in the past, but not in my future thanks to Thai.
Has the BEST professional friendly customer service I've come across. He'll explain the problems fully with your car and will show you them in the garage. His prices are also very reasonable, for Japanese car parts anyways. Thai brought me a cold coke can from the fridge, and turned on the A/C & TV (Gave me the remote, full DirectTV channel listings) while I was the only one inside waiting. Awesome! Quality work, affordable prices, awesome person. Can't ask for more. -
Review from Laura I.
Los Gatos, CA
3/17/2011
UPDATE BELOW: I'm not sure how this business gets so many five stars. Perhaps it is for routine repairs on easy cars. My experience was poor nearly from beginning to end. I have a Audi Allroad that had a pronounced shake when accelerating. I called for an appointment and took the car in at the appointed time for diagnoses; a Wednesday. Since it is my only car I needed to rent a car until mine was done so I went down to Hertz. One of the managers at Almaden did give me a ride down there so that was nice. Then the poor service began. No word on diagnoses by Thursday afternoon about my car so I called. They said they hadn't gotten to it yet. I let them know I was renting and didn't want to go to the expense while my car was just sitting in their garage. Promises that they would get to it. Still by Friday they had not even looked at it. So I asked to pick up my car and I would take it somewhere else to have it serviced as their communication was very poor; I had to call them at every turn to find out status. They promised, promised to get to it on Saturday. Saturday comes and in the late afternoon they said it was done. They had to replace all of the control arms at an expense of over $1,000. Which, I understand, for a job of that size is a good price. BUT I was to find out later that it was penny wise and pound foolish as I will relate later in the story. I go to pick up the car but have to drop off the Hertz rental and wait for someone to come pick me up. They did send someone after 30 minutes but it was nice to have them pick me up. I paid for the work and spoke with the owner, Thai, and he was very courteous and nice. He said the shake was taken care of but there was a rattle when braking and he wasn't sure what that was about. When I got in my car it reeked of cigarette smoke and for weeks afterward the smell did not go away. Fast forward a few weeks and a pronounced thumping when I brake or go over a bump developes. Two more weeks go by and the thumping becomes worse. So while it is in for some tire and aligment work at another shop they take a look to diagnose the thumping. Turns out it is one of the very same control arms replaced by Almaden. I am told that the control arms used by Almaden are probably the cheap Chinese manuafactured ones and the bolt for this one is already worn and needs to be replaced at a cost of $500. Since I don't now trust Almaden I'm not about to have them do anymore work on my car. I'm just out. Probably have to replace the other cheap parts soon too.
So to sum up:
1. Three days to even diagnose my car
2. Inferior parts caused a redo at an additional cost of $500 and maybe more over time
3. Car smelled like cigarette smoke for weeks after pick up.
Update 4/5 Thai has called me to try to make this situation right. He has committed to replacing the cheap parts and I am scheduled for next week. If they come through with committment I will update this post.
Update 4/15: Thai was good to his word. I left my car while on a business trip. When I returned Thai had replaced the parts that were already failing with higher quality parts. As a way to keep my business he also had the car cleaned. He worked very hard to make things right. Thank you Thai. Now I see why you are highly rated. -
Review from Daniel C.
San Jose, CA
8/20/2011
As a newlywed in this economy, my wife and I are always looking for good deals. When the brakes of her Saturn Vue began to make noise, I dreaded taking it into a mechanic shop. I went on Yelp to find a good mechanic in San Jose and came across Almaden Auto Repair. From the moment I walked in the door, I felt completely at ease. The office was clean and Thai was so welcoming. We left our car there and waited for Thai to call with the estimate. I was so relieved to learn that the brakes could be fixed and the oil changed for less than HALF of my previous mechanic! Thank you Thai and your team for providing such excellent service at reasonable prices! You are a life saver!
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Review from Mike M.
San Jose, CA
10/9/2011
The most pleasant experience I have ever had with a auto repair specialist. They are extremely attentive, courteous, and knowledgeable. They are also offer very fair pricing, and completed the work on time, as promised. I highly recommend you give the a try. You will not be disappointed.
Mike M. -
Review from Thomas A.
San Jose, CA
8/20/2010
I took my BMW to Thai's shop a little over a month ago when my car died. He was very responsive to all of my questions and even offered to install a separate part free of labor (i got a fuel pump installed and he installed the fuel filter for free).
While waiting for the paperwork to be done, Thai offered me and my brother a complimentary soda (awesome!). I've recommended all of my friends to go to his shop since; and Thai even gave me business cards to hand out.
If i had to describe my experience with this auto shop i would have to say 'honest' and 'straightforward'. -
Review from Sam P.
6/7/2011
Take all my cars here for an oil change. Friendly service and cheap. Took my honda s2000, toyota camry, honda pilot and its $22 average for an oil change. They do a free inspection as well.
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Review from Doug H.
San Jose, CA
7/9/2010
Well, if my first time there was any indication of how service is at Almaden Auto Repair, I will definitely be back.
Thai is a class act. Very professional and provides great communication and follow up even after you leave the shop. As an example, I really like the pdf invoice that he emails you. It's nice to have the copy that you sign and leave with, but having a digital copy for your records is great too. Yeah, maybe that's a small thing, but it's the mere fact that he does this which tells me alot about how much he values his customers.
Had my truck in there for a 90K service and brakes.......it cost me LESS than half of what the dealer would charge me for. Too bad I didn't find this shop sooner. Give them a try if you're looking for a new shop to have your vehicle worked on.
I'll definitely be back. They are my new shop for service and repairs. -
Review from jessica t.
San Jose, CA
6/14/2010
Completely as advertised! Thai listened to my concerns, had my car pulled in and looked at immediately. Provided an estimate and did not try to up sell me. I will be going back for all my services and work. His respect from shaking my hand, to remembering my name when I came to pick up my car speaks volumes for the care you will receive here. The cold soda's good too.
He even called ahead and took me to the car rental office when I left my car overnight to get the bearing fixed.
5 Stars all the way! -
Review from Justin B.
San Jose, CA
6/8/2011
So far I have just gotten an oil repair but I was impressed with the speed and cost of the service. With their entire parking lot full of cars they managed to have my car in and out within 45min and it only cost me $22 and that included a full inspection. I need other repairs and the prices they quoted me were very reasonable. Finally, I talked to some of the other customers that were waiting and they only had good things to say about the place. I'm very satisfied with my visit and will definitely be back when more repairs are needed.
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Review from Dean A.
San Jose, CA
7/22/2011
I called Thai to get a quote for brake work after hearing good thing about Almaden Auto Repair on yelp. He gave me a quote over the phone which was reasonable. He also gave me a quote for resurfacing versus replacing the rotors. He also said it would take 3-4 hours for the job to be completed. I told him that I needed the car the next day so it had to be finished the same day. I had an afternoon appointment but dropped off the car in the morning. My car was ready by 5pm as promised. So far brakes are working also but for the quality of work I need few more data points.
Few miscommunication issues that I believe are due to their high work load. Having a front desk person will definitely help resolve most of these.
1. I asked for their free inspection when I dropped off my car (I spoke to someone else besides Thai). I know my car has other issues but nothing was noted on my paper work when I got the car back.
2. I had to call back myself around 1pm to get the final price and find out what exactly is needed to be done.
3. I was expecting a call around 5pm (end of 4 hr window they promised). I didn't get a call so I called the shop myself. My car was ready!
When I went there at 5:30pm, Thai was talking to few different customers on the phone. I could tell he was really busy but still had a big smile on this face which make me also relax a bit.
I was also excited to see my bill in my inbox a little later in the evening :-)
I am calling Thai again to get a quote for some other repairs (some must and some should dos). I will update my review as needed.
Thank you Thai.
-Dean
