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Art's Automotive
Category: Automotive Auto Repair Auto Repair [Edit]
2871 San Pablo Ave(between Heinz Ave & Russell St)
Berkeley, CA 94702
(510) 540-7093
Announcement
2006 and newer Hyundai? We are offering free diagnosis or inspection ($98) while we begin accommodating the new line. Call for details.
- Hours:
Mon-Thu 8 am - 6 pm
Fri 8 am - 12 pm
Fri 1 pm - 5 pm
115 reviews for Art's Automotive
115 reviews in English
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Review from Dawn T.
Berkeley, CA
2/9/2012
I have been taking vehicles to Art's Automotive for over 20 years. I can always count on Art's for a fair and honest deal. They have worked on a Subaru, a Mitsubishi and two Toyotas over that time. Silly me - when they were really busy and I was short on cash, I tried to save money elsewhere. Now, I'll be bringing another used car to them to check out before I purchase soon.
For years, here was a typical conversation:
Me: I'm here to get my annual (15,000 mile) service on my current older vehicle.
Arts: OK, let me check the records. Hmmm ... this says it was only 6,500 miles since your last service.
Me: Yeah, I ride my bike and take BART most of the time but when I do drive I have kids with me and would rather do extra preventive maintenance than worry about a break-down.
Arts: OK, we'll do as you ask.
An hour later, I'd get a call:
Arts: We checked your car. The oil filter looks like it isn't dirty and the air filter definitely does not need to be changed. Are you sure you want us to do more than change one old belt and rotate the tires?
Me: Yes, it's been almost 3,000 miles since I had the oil changed (at one of those drive-in places). So, please just do what you would do if your grandmother was going to be driving your infant around - that will make me feel safe.
Arts: OK.
Fast forward after several years of not working due to health issues:
Me: I know my truck is WAY overdue for a major service. But I'm worried it has other problems with the transmission, brakes and an oil leak. The tire place told me I have to buy 4 new tires b/c I saw when they were put under water that mine are leaking between the treads even though they don't look too worn.
Art's checked my truck out and told me:
Arts: We could do the $600 service, but if it were my truck, I would save my money to buy another vehicle. Within the next few thousand miles it's going to need some big work on every major system (head gasket, transmission, ball bearings, and something else). Unfortunately, this is one of the weakest motors Toyota ever sold. Good news: we figured out how to repair the two tires that do have a problem for $16 each - they are worn more on the inside from over-inflation (probably from the crooked tire place that told me they couldn't honor the warranty on my leaking tires b/c they had changed hands).
Me: Thanks for your honesty. Would Art's ever buy a vehicle to refurbish and sell? Art's: No, that isn't our business, but $X,XXX is what you'll probably be able to get if you sell it in "as-is" condition.
In a world of uncertainty, it's nice to have a trustworthy mechanic. -
Review from Cory S.
Berkeley, CA
12/8/2011
Every time I call, I get a frank and detailed discussion of my problem on the phone with Art before I even commit to getting serviced. When my catalytic converter was stolen, he went out of his way to help me get the best possible deal on a new one. He even called around to exhaust shops to figure out the cheapest way to get it done! As others have mentioned, Art truly cares about his customers.
I do wonder why an auto shop needs those fancy Apple computer monitors, but I suppose it's a way to appeal to some of the upper class Berkeley clientele.
Go to Art's if you want to be treated fairly by an auto shop that will go out of their way to help you save money AND cares about doing the job right. I will be going back to Art's when my car needs more work. -
Review from Amie R.
Emeryville, CA
9/29/2011
Alright, get ready for an epic tale guys.
I took my '06 Prius in for it's 30k service recently. Eric showed me the deluxe package, but I opted for the standard oil and filter change plus inspections etc. I mentioned specifically that I needed more wiper fluid because I was totally out, and Eric suggested that I may also need some new wiper blades which I agreed to. I dropped my car off and made the somewhat difficult public transit trip to work.
Eric called me and started listing off a bunch of stuff going on with the car including a cracked mirror (which I had never notice, but figured I could have overlooked it if it was on the passenger side). They said my battery was coming up close to dead on their tests and would need to be replaced. I hadn't noticed any of the potential symptoms they mentioned, but I didn't want to end up stranded with my car dead either, so I said ok, go ahead and replace (~$200). Eric called later that day to say it would be ready to pick up after 5. I made the public transit journey back to get my car.
I paid for the 30k service and battery and got in my car. Immediately upon starting it, I noticed that my 'maintenance required' light was still on. That was weird, so I ran in and told Eric, he came out and said they probably forgot to reset it and showed me how to reset it. I went on my way home and nearly there I realized my windshield was filthy and then remembered they had topped off the fluid so went to get that going and... nothing. It basically dribbled out like my tears on that $400 check I had just written them for this service that was rapidly becoming suspect in my mind. I got home and immediately called the shop.
I got the main man, Art on the phone. He was really surprised that they hadn't filled up the wiper fluid and told me to bring it in as soon as possible so they could top it off. I agreed and the next day I left work early to bring it in. Before I left my work's parking lot I decided to check on the in cabin air filter, cause I knew where that was. I pulled it out - it was FILTHY. Leaves and dirt all over. This was certainly not a 24 hour accumulation, they had clearly not changed my filter. At this point I'm starting to get mad and I'm pretty convinced they had done nothing to my car, so I decided that when I got to the shop I would make them show me everything they had done. I also snapped a picture of the air filter just in case.
I get to the shop at about 5pm and Art comes out and pops the hood. Immediately it's apparent that they hadn't even gone under my hood, there were leaves everywhere (something that Art and his employee both confirmed they always vacuum out) and the wiper fluid was bone dry. He also noted that the wiper blades had not been changed, they were still cracked and old. He then went around back and checked the battery. He took the cover off, and immediately Eric says 'look here, you can tell this is a brand new battery that we just put in because the terminals are still notched' (or something like that). Art was still skeptical and then noticed that none of my mirrors were cracked, which cemented in his mind that my car had gotten mixed up, and they had in fact done NOTHING to my car. There had been another '06 Prius in that day that had the dead battery and cracked mirror that got my 30k treatment.
Art apologized profusely and said that this had only happened one other time in his long career. He refunded the battery (they had not, as Eric asserted, replaced my battery, they hadn't done ANYTHING to my car) and scheduled me to come back in the next week when he would do the full 30k service on my car for no extra charge (a $400 difference). I really do think Art is an above-the-board type of guy who really does care about customers and their cars, so I agreed to bring my car back. He had also checked to make sure my oil was ok, which definitely gave me peace of mind to drive it around for that week.
I brought it back the next week and things went smoothly. Art called me and recommended I replace the front two tires, which I had personally noticed were getting a little bald so I agreed. I picked up my car at the end of the day and paid for the tires. My car is running great now, and I am definitely satisfied.
TL;DR: Brought my Prius in for 30k, it got switched with another, NOTHING was done to my car. Eric tried to convince me several times that they HAD serviced my car, but Art was honest and thorough. Art definitely made things right and treated me well. I would go back, but will continue to double check that things I pay for are done.Comment from Art R. of Art's Automotive 10/8/2011
Yikes! Two key tags with the same number, two identical… More » -
Review from tim h.
San Francisco, CA
12/22/2011
Great service, very knowledgeable, they stand behind their work !
What more could you want ?
T. Hamilton -
Review from steve t.
Berkeley, CA
7/1/2011
Art's did it again! My wife and I have been Art's customers since our 1985 Corolla was new, and it has always been a pleasure working with the folks at Art's (even if the reason for visiting was an unpleasant car malfunction). Today, not only did they get the air conditioning fixed in my Sienna van in time for a trip tomorrow thru the hot Central Valley, Art himself saved my butt by figuring out a way to fix my newly-busted (and ridiculously expensive to replace) tail light in time to make the trip. Not getting pulled over by the CHP in some godawful place on I-5 should be worth at least 6 stars!
These guys are the best! -
Review from Gerald R.
Oakland, CA
10/14/2011
Art's Automotive is just the best! I was quoted $1750.00 by the dealership which cost me $220.00 at Arts!
These guys are thorough, professional and customer centered. -
Review from Jack T.
Berkeley, CA
12/15/2010
These guys are on your side. I should know, I could've been screwed with my initial experience, but Art came through for me.
Last year I went to Art's for my 30k service after reading all the glowing reviews. I saved almost $200 compared to the dealer. Quick and easy. Fast forward 3 weeks. While commuting to work, I suddenly heard a terrible grinding noise while my car lost power. I towed the car to the dealer, and they said that my front differential dipstick was missing and that all the oil was gone. It was going to cost thousands to repair it.
I didn't notice all the leaking oil because I park on the street most of the time. To me it was obvious that the guys at Art's didn't replace the dipstick after filling the oil during the 30k service. I prepared myself for a long and grueling process to get it repaired and reimbursed.
Well, I called Art's Automotive, had them look at the damage... They took the blame without a fuss and fixed it no charge. They reimbursed me for the towing fees and regularly kept me posted on the progress of the repair job. Took them two tries to get the job right, but it's been well over a year and I've put another 30k miles on my car with zero problems. Just had them do my 60k and it was fine.
I should give them 1 star for such a bone-headed mistake. (an argument could be made for me getting 1 star for not noticing the leaking oil). But the way I was treated and the way the situation was handled was 5 star, all the way.
I am absolutely confident that my 30k experience was a random goof and that I just got "lucky." -
Review from Heather R.
El Cerrito, CA
12/9/2010
All I gotta say is "Wowzuh!"
This is the kind of service you read about in mythic tales from ancient automotive times. At least in my experience, this shop is a treasure.
At first I was worried about price. This was the thing that had me dabbling in outside 'quick-fix HARD SELL' places like Big O and Oil Changers. Those places don't care, do a shabby job often and try to play on your fear to get more work done. It turns out. Arts Auto is comparable, if not LESS than those places, AND they don't use the cheap, reconditioned parts. Don't let price be an issue. It may be hard to believe, but their incredible service doesn't cost more.
Plus, I was AMAZED at the level of detail in the notes of my past visits.
At this moment, Art HIMSELF! is working on my car. He is keeping me informed as to what is going on and giving me a free bonus as we speak: I had no idea this was even a looming problem, but my door handle is ready to break off.
He's taking the handle from the back passenger door and putting it on the drivers door complimentary!
This is also an ECO friendly shop. Art's the real thing. He's the perfect combination of practical common sense and intuitive car tune-in-er.
As he put it today (which made everyone in the office laugh) "I'm the Auto-Whisperer."
Here is what my experience has been:
A few years ago I had to get motor mounts put in. The cost was going to be almost more than the car was worth. (Okay, full disclosure for the Feds watching online reviews and tweets... I'm driving a 96 Toyota Corolla, don't even ASK bout the milage.)
Anyhow, the guys at the shop kept asking, "Are you SURE you want to do this?" - this is the antithesis of the hard sell.
My key was getting stuck in the ignition. Instead of trying to charge me to replace the locking system, they encouraged me to go to the dealer, get a new key made and then try it. "That handles it in 90% of the cases."
Run don't walk to Arts if you're car's ailing. I'd be quite surprised if you were disappointed. If you have to leave your car for the day, it's worth it. Rent a relic only charges $27 bucks if you're an Art's peep. -
Review from Wally W.
Oakland, CA
1/9/2011
This review is long overdue . . . We've been taking our cars to Art's for a few years now and have been 100% satisfied with their service. Art's team is honest, forthright, organized, and REALLY good at what they do (especially when it comes to hybrid vehicles). And here's the best part: every time we've been there, they've given us *options*! They're great about explaining what's going on with your car, what they recommend (without any kind of pressure), and how your car is likely to fair depending on how YOU choose to proceed. Also, their rates are incredibly reasonable considering the excellent service you get.
Cars are expensive. You need to be able to trust your mechanic, and we trust Art's Automotive with great enthusiasm!!! -
Review from Chrystine Z.
Berkeley, CA
11/22/2011
Art's and the guys working there impressed me beyond words. They're friendly over the phone to schedule an appointment. The shop is clean and well-kept. Their diagnostic and hourly charge is far below other shops, but they don't short you on service.
My car needed half of the electrical system replaced, the new parting costing $800! Because the new part price was so high, they guys worked with me to search for a used part; I ended up purchasing the part and bringing it to them to install. That was something they definitely didn't have to offer, but because they did, I saved half the original estimated cost! Not only did they put the electrical part in, but they cleaned up a few engine parts and solved a completely unrelated problem in the same estimate time with no additional cost.
My car is running better than ever and I completely trust the guys and service at Art's. I will only bring my car to Art's for anything in the future. They're simply terrific! -
Review from Navi T.
Hercules, CA
9/24/2010 1 Check-in Here
I'm a do it yourselfer kinda guy, but there are somethings best left to a professional. Flushing out the brake system on a Prius is one of them. I had mixed experiences with mechanics, and I don't trust dealership "service" departments - the guys working at dealers are mostly flat-rate wrenchturners that WILL upsell you things you don't need/can't afford. And the corner mechanic can be a shady guy and will use parts from Kragen(some stuff from Kragen ain't bad), AutoZone or Pep Boys to maximize profits.
So I took the parent's Prius on a 30 minute trek to Berkeley over to Art's. And I'll say this - these guys are a refreshing chance of pace from the other shops/dealers our family has experienced. They're honest, willing to make things work on your schedule, and gasp - bike friendly if you brought with you an alternative means of transport while your car is being worked on. Even though I took a car in for one part of a 30K service, I'll be coming back here for anything major on our fleet. And this is coming from someone who doesn't trust most auto repair shops. -
Review from Katya G.
Berkeley, CA
11/17/2011
Art's is truly amazing. we have been taking our toyota camry 98 and geo prizm 94 here since 2002 when we moved to berkeley. Art's has always been clear and on target about what really needs fixing (for prevention/safety) and what is more cosmetic, clearly explaining all problems and fixing things well and for a fair price. not only that but they will squeeze me in with no warning for small things like fixing a tail light that is out or a windshield wiper that doesn't work, they are quick and keep stuff in stock. they even sometimes do small things for free or a trivial price just for the part, just out of good will. Not only that but they are very nice!
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Review from Mel Z.
Sunnyvale, CA
9/27/2010
I've had the best experience I've had at a car shop here!
My car started making noises when it's cruising or decelerating. Being the car idiot I am, I was really worried and after doing some internet searches, I was convinced that I should take my car in to a shop b/c it could potentially be a big problem and my car could break down at any moment.
I read a few yelp reviews for car shops around the berkeley/oakland area and called a few places for quotes. One of them had 5 stars and hundreds of reviews on yelp, but they told me that their appointment slots are all filled and that I'd have to be scheduled for next week and it'll take $35 just to have a listen of my car.
I was not going to go for that! So I called Art's automotive. The receptionist were very nice and told me that I can come in immediately to come in for a free listening.
I drove over and one of the guys came out and asked me to turn my car on. After listening to my car for 30 sec or less, HE DIAGNOSED MY CAR'S PROBLEM and fixed it for a whole lot cheaper than what I thought I was going to pay!
Now I no long drive my car in fear and my car's doing great!
Highly recommend! -
Review from Johnny L.
Alameda, CA
6/14/2010
I've been going to Art and his crew for 22 years now, and it truly pains me to read any negative reviews here. I just find them hard to fathom--it's like someone telling you they think your daughter is ugly.
Art's guys (Lute, Brad, Eric, Paul, Ann (whoops, not a guy)) have been fantastic for me and my "fleet" of Toyotas over the years. Not only do they talk me OUT of unnecessary work, but they often recommend a cheaper alternative (rebuilt alternators versus new, e.g.) and they stand behind their work and parts, sometimes even after the one-year warranty expires. I have referred several people to Art's and have yet to hear a complaint from any of them. In fact, I know at least three of them have passed ON the referral to others.
So, for the people who had a bad experience...I'm sorry. Maybe the shop was just having a bad hair day. -
Review from Rocco B.
San Francisco, CA
2/22/2007 ROTD 10/15/2007
I could have kissed Art on the way out.
Based on a recommendation from Matt H, I took my car in to Art's auto for a bum transmission. At first I was a little annoyed because I called on Monday, and they told me they couldn't see me till Thursday. Additionally when I brought the car in, I found out that the estimate wasn't free (as I thought was customary).
A mechanic called me at around 3PM the same day.
.
Mechanic: "I have some bad news, Rocco, your transmission is shot".
Rocco's Brain: "Here we go..."
Mechanic: "But I have some good news, too".
Rocco's Brain: "What, you're only gonna rape me in one orifice instead of two?"
Mechanic: "Your car is one of the models that had a class action lawsuit with transmissions. Your waranty was extended to 7 years and 106,000 miles.
Rocco's Brain: "..."
Mechanic: "You can take the car to the dealer to get it repaired for free."
Rocco's Brain: "!!!"
.
My car has 100K miles, and was bought exactly seven years ago on March 1st (today is Feb 22). So it's Christmas in February. Here I was ready to shell out $1500 for a tranny. And now I get one free.
Thanks Art for finding that paperwork. Thanks for being honest and not taking the job yourself. You're my personal hero (well at least for the next few weeks).
A+++++++++++ (as they say on eBay) -
Review from Matt H.
Berkeley, CA
2/19/2007 ROTD 12/26/2007
My ex-gf's Honda had a busted radiator and every place told her she'd need to spend $450-600 for a whole new one. She got a used one from Art, after being explained the options, for just under $300. They also saw her immediately, despite being busy, and got her car fixed in under 24 hours. They were friendly and helpful the whole time.
She went in apprehensive and miserable, and came back smiling; that's what counts. -
Review from natasha s.
Oakland, CA
1/18/2008 ROTD 3/16/2008
I remember when I first got my brand spankin new Toyota Camry 10! years ago as a graduation gift from my parents.
She beamed and sparkled. Just a baby. Not flashy. But safe (enough for even the most anxious Korean mother).
She lapped up the regular luxurious detailing she got in the parking garage at 2029 Century Park East. Thrilled to see Matt Damon and Ben Affleck visiting their agents; Warren Beatty, Annette Bening and Rob Reiner taking in a flick; celebs and studio heads coming in for depos; investment, finance and tax advice. All while her owner worked. And worked. And worked some more.
Till she was the only car left in the garage.
At first, she loved taking her owner around. To shopping sprees at Fred Segal and Barney's. To group dinners at Spago and The Ivy. To hair appointments at Frederic Fekkai. Always to the newest. The latest.
Till she tired of the constant valets. The constant comparisons. The constant fear that her owner was going to trade her up. For the newest. The latest.
With every ding, dent, whirr and glitch. She worried.
So she was ecstatic when she heard they were moving to "down to earth" San Francisco! But still relatively shiny and new, she preened. (Even when it was out of place.) She traded in her detailing for roasting in the Palo Alto sun. Her 30 minute commute in bumper to bumper traffic (for what otherwise was a 10 minute drive) on Wilshire for a 45 minute commute down the 280. She still waited. And waited. And waited some more. For her owner to take her home from work. But this time she had plenty of company.
It didn't take long for her to miss the valets. Versus circling for parking and squeezing into those rare spaces. And getting bumped and scratched by everyone else doing the exact same thing. She *missed* the valets! The vertical hills, constant braking from pedestrian and bicyclist traffic and sudden "I Found Parking!" stops and constant commute chipped away at her body. And her engine.
Her owner tried to find worthy mechanics. But they were constantly telling her she needed a new this or a new that; charging her owner exorbitant amounts; and condescendingly wincing when her owner asked naive questions. So much so that her owner dreaded taking her in. And boy did she feel it. And show it.
One day, her owner took her to Art's Automotive. Art's talked to her owner like she was an adult. Gave her thorough inspections. Explained what needed to be fixed and what could wait. Charged her owner for the work and parts. This last time, Art's also cleaned her dirty insides, wiped her windshield spotless, refilled her fluids and added a courtesy discount!
She preened.
Now, when she navigates parking at the Berkeley Bowl; drops her owner off at Yoga; and waits at the BART station for her owner to take her home after a standard 8 hour work day; she preens. And thinks of Art's. -
Review from Justin O.
Berkeley, CA
Updated - 7/9/2011
I kept meaning to update this to say that Art replaced my engine at no cost to me with an engine with nearly 85k less miles. I ended up paying to replace the radiator -- very reasonable.
Very honest and reasonable -- I fully plan to continue getting my car serviced there -- even though the problem happened, it turned out about as good as I could have hoped.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/8/2011
My situation is a little unusual, and in pending status, but Art is a great man, and I am fully… Read more »
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Review from Christyn K.
Kansas City, MO
12/19/2008
I am not sure how this place received such rave reviews.
I took my car here a few years ago when I noticed the heat index in my car was going wacko. Arts didn't know what was wrong, but kept the car for a few days.... then a few more... which turned into three weeks. I understand that it may have taken that long to work on it, but conveniently every week they called me with a larger and larger bill total, stating that they were finding more and more problems. When my car finally totaled to over $2000, I had a friend come with me to contest the bill. They refused a penny's less, so 3 weeks and $2000 later I took my car back home.
It broke down again less than a year later with the same problem. Thanks for nothing.Comment from Art R. of Art's Automotive 5/19/2010
Major repairs have a full year warranty. Dont be afraid to… More » -
Review from BB H.
Berkeley, CA
3/4/2011
What an honor to be the 100th review for Art's. I rarely write reviews on Yelp but today is an exception. I have a 10 year old Honda Civic and for the most part my car has been worry-free. Earlier this week the "check engine light" turned on so I searched on Yelp for a recommendation and Art's stood out from the pack.
When I called 2 days ago to inquire about the cost of checking the system, Art's quoted me about 50 bucks less than a local competitor. I had the audacity to ask for a discount and a worker replied, "At Art's we don't give discounts; we give a fair price for fair work." I really liked that response and what's best of all....it turned out to be TRUE!!
Today I dropped off my vehicle in the morning and by 2pm they had solved the issue. It was a relatively simple thing and they charged a fair price for great work. Due to my positive experience, I will gladly extol the virtues of Art's Automotive to everyone I know who owns a Japanese car. Too bad my husband owns a Saturn. -
Review from Andrew Y.
1/21/2009
Had my car towed here because it wouldn't start. This garage was recommended by one of my friend's and after having my car fixed here. I do agree. When I walked into the office and explained the issue with my car. I was already pretty sure that it was the starter, but they wanted to be sure.
One thing I was told was the the diagnosis price was $49 per half hour. Off the bat, it was recommended that 1 hour was needed. This kind of shocked me, but I was pleasantly surprised to have this cut in half when the the problem was found out to be the starter.
Anyway, they were fast and the price was fairly reasonable at $400 all in to change the starter.
All in all it was a good experience. I'll definitely go back to them if I have a problem in Berkeley again. -
Review from Liz L.
Piedmont, CA
2/22/2010
The Good:
- Mechanic was great. Smart, articulate and was able to convey his findings to me in laypersons terms.
- The place is very clean, orderly and they appear to run an efficient business.
The Bad:
The front office was rude in tone and verbiage.
Some work apart of the "routine package" was not performed (and they explained why) but when I looked at the total billing only 20% was refunded back to me. When I asked about it they said the costs are "homogonized" into the total price in a very dismissive tone. Meaning I get screwed out of the extra $60. I won't go back as a result. -
Review from Ines C.
Palo Alto, CA
7/26/2007
I gotta pull the plug on the five star love fest and give this place... yes, just three and a half measly stars. I'll be a gracious yelper and round up to four.
In fact, I think this review will help future Art customers. Don't believe the hype. Don't get your hopes up that you'll be sharing beers with these guys or calling them to save you and your car if and when you're stuck out in BFE. No, really, they're just mechanics and the bay area has lots of them.
Pros: Their website is handy - very true. They're friendly - I guess (I think the friendly meter was high in the morning and took a dive by the time I picked up my car at the end of the day).
Cons: I had to wait three weeks for an appointment to get standard front struts replaced. Meanwhile, we advised passengers to ride with helmets or take anti-nausea meds when riding in our not-so-trusty Honda. It also wasn't the cheapest quote I got (paid $400), but I went with them because of their website and all the freaking five stars on yelp. Lots of Berkeley-soccer-mom characters come here. I heard one ask: "Can you take just a peek at my spare tire? I'm just curious to see if it's okay?" Really? There's a line of folks waiting to pick up vehicles that all look like primary candidates for the show "pimp my ride" and you want to drag the front office guy out to look at the spare tire on your Lexus SUV? Tad annoying.
It sounds like if you have more challenging car problems, Art's Automotive can come to your rescue. For anything more standard, I think you'll be fine skippng Art's.
I've actually had this Honda for a while so I know the good, the bad, and the ugly. I was disappointed that they didn't comment on all the extensive rust or take a glance at anything else around the struts. Especially since I had specifically asked them to let me know if there's anything else out of the ordinary. When I asked about this later, they told me that glancing around constituted an extra $92 full inspection. Bummer. -
Review from Andrew P.
Oakland, CA
2/18/2011
After seeing the amazing reviews, I was prepared to be disappointed. I was not.
I didn't need major work done on my car - just regular service and had a tire patched. The place was busy when I dropped off my car at 8 am, but the people behind the counter were friendly and fast so I didn't have to wait very long.
This is why Art's gets five stars: I mentioned right after I paid that a few days earlier someone had stolen my bag from my locker at the gym and now had possession of my ID with my address on it, as well as my car keys. I called the Toyota dealership to see if the key or the car's computer could be reprogrammed so that who had the key couldn't just come and drive my car away. The dealership said there was nothing they could do, except something with the computer that would prevent the car from being driven, but would still allow the thief to get inside my car. This would have cost me over $400. But when I mentioned this to the guy at Art's he said he could fix it without a problem. He hooked up my car to his diagnostic computer and it took him about 20 minutes to figure out exactly how do it it, but he made it so the key I have is the only one that will now open the car or start it. So now I have a secure car again, and there was NO additional charge! -
Review from Mel H.
Oakland, CA
9/21/2005
Love Art's. Love them, love them, love them. They've literally saved my car on more than one occasion. Once I thought something was wrong with my car, and NOTHING ended up being wrong to my car, and they were totally honest about it. They just gave it back to me. No charge.
I know. Totally unheard of.
Admittedly, I've been very close to a clueless car owner, as in, just-put-gas-in-it-right? I don't know where my car would be without Art's. I trust them completely. The folks at Art's are great at what they do and forthright with their customers. If only everything in the world worked like they do.
And to second Chris D.'s review - I swear I don't work for them! I just think they're awesome. -
Review from Jessica D.
Oakland, CA
1/16/2010
I used to dread getting my car repaired or serviced, until I discovered Art's Automotive. In addition to fast, quality work at reasonable prices--which I would expect from any mechanic worth a repeat visit--Art's also has fantastic, honest service and a comfortable, non-intimidating attitude about the shop.
Someone helpful and knowledgeable answers the phone when you call, scheduling an appointment is easy and quick. I usually have to leave my car on my street and use the "Early Bird" dropoff slot, and they often call to confirm they've got my car even before their official business hours begin. They are very conscientious about explaining whatever's wrong with your car thoroughly and understandably. They are upfront about what NEEDS to be fixed today and what can be fixed at a later time--I've never felt pressured to approve additional repairs or services I wasn't sure about. They also invest in consumer education, explaining how to best to maintain your car to avoid costly repairs in the future.
I live in Oakland now, rather than Berkeley, but I've never even thought about taking my car anywhere else. My parents, who live in San Francisco, also choose Art's when they have trouble with their hybrid--it is truly worth the drive! -
Review from jessica m.
Fort Collins, CO
1/8/2008
It is really hard to find automotive specialists that you can trust. My old shop had closed, and as much as I appreciated the offer to call the guy at home....that's not really my style.
So I read some reviews, I snooped around the information super highway, I made some calls.
Choosing Art's has now involved me in another committed relationship with a shop for my car. Thank god.
Not wanting to appear like a capital G girl, I asked a lot of what I thought were well researched questions before my 90k tuneup. I appreciated that they tolerated my asinine questions like- "what about my cap and rotor?" Their response, "well, we would check it if you had one." Without a hint, without an IOTA of attitude. Thanks guys! Gee whiz!
The bill came in under estimate and on time. And that's what really counts. So this is my new shop. Now stay away so that I don't have a hard time getting in there! -
Review from Jane L.
Berkeley, CA
3/20/2008
THANK G*D for ART'S!
The check engine light on my Subaru WRX has given me fits and starts since I bought it over five years ago. Background is: I had been given the SERIOUS run around/shake down by 1) Ron Price Subaru in SF, 2) Albany Subaru, 3) Downtown Subaru in Oakland, 4) Berkeley Firestone and 5) two "Joe-Bob" mechanics not worth mentioning. (All of whom ripped me off and some of whom are just total dirtbags IMHO.)
Anyway, I'm sure it was a tricky issue b/c it took 2 visits before the guys at Art's totally nailed the issue. But, the point is they did. They fixed it AND they were all very pleasant, helpful, and informative. They charged me what seemed fair and they earned my trust. When you top it off with the fact that Art's is a a certified green business and they service hybrids, there is no question who our family mechanic is going to be from now on. -
Review from Forrest Y.
Claremont, CA
3/6/2008
Finding a mechanic you can completely trust is a rare thing. I came here based on the reviews of Berkeley Parents Network, first to get my brakes fixed and to deal with a chirpy sound coming from my engine. They fixed the brakes that needed it, didn't mess with the ones they said could go another 10k miles, and fixed the chirping problem for free.
Next, my wife's car's oxygen sensor crapped out (conveyed to us as a cryptic yellow light on the display). Art's diagnosed the problem, but then told us to go to the dealership to fix it since it was under warranty and we could get it done for free. Wow.
Finally, my car was making a grindy noise (they actually wrote it down in the prelim eval as 'Customer describes noise as RRRrrrr') so I took it down to Art's and it was fixed half a day later. The chirpy sound had also come back, which they again fixed for free.
The thing I love about Art's is that they have your interests in mind when they recommend work. They'll tell you what needs to be done now, what can wait and can even triage work if you can't afford everything. If you go that route, they'll offer to try and fix your semi broken parts instead of just replacing them to save you money. I never got that predatory establishment vibe here like I do with some other places like the dealership where they just seem to do random extra work to make more money, and that's what really matters with a mechanic. -
Review from Joshua C.
Updated - 3/2/2010
Art's Automotive is the best. Their customer service is top notch, they communicate efficiently and are upfront and honest about their services. They are also a "Green Business" and solar powered. Kudos for environmental friendliness!
After doing my 30K maintenance and getting a new set of tires, I thought I wouldn't have to go to Art's for a while. Boy, I was wrong.
About a month after my 30K maintenance, I noticed a weird noise in my engine. I called Art's on a Thursday, explained the noise the best I could and they said if I'm in the area, I could bring my car by and they'd take a quick look. I drove over and they listened to the noise, determined it could be the water pump and we scheduled an appointment for Monday since they were booked. Turns out it was the water pump and luckily it was a quick fix. My car is all good now and purrs like a kitten.
What I love about Art's is that they call me with updates and let me know what they will be doing, about how much it'll cost, and if there were any changes. There are no surprises, well actually there are. Sometimes the actual bill will be lower than the estimate because certain things didn't need to be done. So those kind of surprises are awesome. No bad surprises though.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/2/2010
This is an autoshop I trust. I don't feel like I'm being cheated, up sold, or intimidated.
Their… Read more »
Comment from Art R. of Art's Automotive 5/16/2010
This comment serves to address the Yelp Community and all… More » -
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Review from pea p.
Berkeley, CA
4/8/2007
It has been 3 years since I have owned a car, but I tend to remember the few times that I have encountered really great, smart, competent, honest, hardworking, compassionate people / businesses. So I thought I would write a review.
Art's was always great with my car. I wish I still had a car just so Art could take care of it!
I originally discovered Art's through the "Car Talk" website's "Mechan-X-files" where, like here, it got many rave reviews (maybe the most in the Bay Area)!
Nice to see that they are still providing the same great care and service.
I am a woman and they didn't even try to rip me off. And when my car finally died of very old age they told me the truth (that it would cost more to fix than to just buy a new car). And they didn't charge me for that assessment either.
I have referred many happy people there, including my landlord, who got her car fixed for 50 dollars instead ot the 1,200 another place quoted her.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED -
Review from J. Y.
Castro Valley, CA
11/12/2007
My newer vehicle needed a major tuneup, the dealer wanted $800 for the service. I decided to search around on Yelp to see if there are any reputable auto shop around my house that would do it for less, it was after all just a fancy tune-up. I don't consider myself a smart a$$, but I do read the car forums to familiarize myself with what's being performed.
Upon reading all of the rave reviews, it was a no brainer Art seems like a good choice for me. Called to see how much the service would cost and the person over the phone gave me a whole schpeal on how the dealer was withholding information on the make and model of the car. I thought to myself, what does this have to do with changing oils and checking for leaks? Anyhow, was told roughly $700, okay $100 cheaper than the dealer -- a good start. Continue to asked if I can make an appointment and was surprised to hear their first open appointment will be in two weeks. I was thinking to myself this place must be good since they're fully booked for two weeks. Went ahead and made the appointment.
Brought my car in the day of the appointment, dropped it off at 9AM. At around 2PM I called to see when the car will be ready. I was told they had just started on my car and it will be ready at 4PM. Went by at 4PM and was asked to paid first, after I paid the invoice was told the car is not ready and will be another 15 min. The funny thing is after about 5 min. the mechanic came over and asked whether I wanted to have the in cabin filters installed, I said yes I paid for the filters already -- of course. He then told me it's going to take another 15 min. All in all I waited 40 min. at the shop. This was very annoying as I was told it was ready at 4PM.
Finally, I got my car at around 4:45PM and by this point I wanted to get out of there ASAP to beat the 5PM traffic. As I was driving in my car I noticed, the steering wheel and passenger seat were dirty (it must have rubbed off their shop overalls), then I noticed a big old clean up stain on my driver side window. They must have accidentally smeared oil on my mirror and was trying to wipe it off. Needless to say I was not happy with their service.
Overall Art seems like a great guy from my observation while waiting for my car, but I think he needs pay more attention on what his mechanics and office people are doing. If you have an older car, Art's is your place. However, if you have a new vehicle I would go elsewhere. I'm giving the place two stars because I ended up spending the money I saved on getting the car cleaned. -
Review from Bryan T.
San Francisco, CA
12/25/2006
I went out of my way to use this place when my car was having oil problems because of Yelp and wasn't disappointed.
They quickly diagnosed my car's problem, called me before initiating any repairs, did a great job of laying out my options and explaining what the issue was, and fixed it quickly. Though it was a simple problem, my car was ready for pickup that day. -
Review from John M.
Sacramento, CA
7/11/2009
They are good, but they misdiagnosed a problem with my car that ended up costing me money and time.
At least they did own up to the misdiagnosis. They did refund me most of the money for the work that they did due to the misdiagnosis, but it still would have cost me less if they had diagnosed the problem correctly in the first place.
Other than that, they were always good so for the most part I would recommend them. -
Review from Armstrong B.
San Francisco, CA
2/17/2010
I have been using Art's for a year now. It's nowhere near me. In fact, I drive 30 miles out of my way in slightly rush hour traffic to use them and take time off work because there were no reliable and honest mechanics near me.
I discovered them not through Yelp but through Google while researching a problem with my Civic. I came across their highly informative website, which I encourage everyone to check out and as a result, they've been my mechanic even for oil changes. Keep in mind I still have to take a half day off work for this.
They only work on Japanese cars (includes hybrids) and they use OEM parts. Labor is $98/hr, which is still cheaper than the stealership. They're not open on weekends but that's usually the case for most independent shops.
Besides their honesty and reasonable prices, they're also a green business. The shop runs off solar panels. -
Review from Gregory R.
Somerville, MA
6/24/2007
Art's is great. We used them until our car died and we didn't get a new one. They were honest/fool enough to tell us it wasn't worth fixing. I say "fool" because the lost a customer since we didn't get a new car.
I would recommend them, without question, to anyone. -
Review from Pat T.
Berkeley, CA
1/10/2006
Great Honda garage. I wouldn't go elsewhere. The prices are good, the estimates are accurate, and they are wizards at diagnosing problems.
I switched to Arts after using Berkeley Minicar for a year or two. Both garages have a similar ethic -- don't push expensive repairs that can be deferred -- and I recommend both.
But Art's gets an extra star. Berkeley Minicar often (in my experience) says "come back another time to fix this problem we found." Art's usually calls you up the same day and says "hey, we found this problem. Do you want us to fix it today?"
Prices are reasonable, and work is great. My car has 190k miles on it, and Art's keeps it running well. -
Review from Barbara Y.
El Cerrito, CA
1/30/2008
Found these guys on YELP and decided to take in my car when it failed on me a couple of nights ago.
These guys are pro, it shows from the moment you show up til the moment they get you in your car. No gimmicks, BS, or price hikes, these guys are in business and receiving rewards for a reason. I had my car when they promised and the price ROCKED!
I have a new mechanic, one I can trust! -
Review from William D.
Oakland, CA
3/1/2010
I've been dealing with Art & the whole staff,Anne,Lute,Paul,Eric ,Chris(I'm sure I left someone out)since 2002 & they have been everything you would want & expect in an automotive repair shop.
Honest,upfront,organized & to the point...
Long term Berkely establishment.... -
Review from Beth H.
Walnut Creek, CA
7/2/2009
Best mechanics. EVER. I always know that I'm getting quality service and a balanced and fair assessment. Had SF Toyota diagnose my car when the check engine light came on. They said I had to replace all 4 fuel injectors. Okaaaay. Took the car to Art's and they determined it was just one injector misfiring; said I could replace all 4 while they were in there, but only one needed replacement. Saved me about $600. This is just the most recent incident in a long history of Art's Auto being awesome. And, yes, I drove from SF to Berkeley in order to have my car serviced specifically by this garage.
Sometimes it is hard to get an appointment when you really need your car serviced FAST, and sometimes they don't call you back *exactly* when they say they will but, the wait is definitely worth it and they are always friendly and courteous and most importantly, great mechanics. The shop is clean and the staff is nice and I have to say, I've noticed they have great retention of their workstaff - I see the same people there now that were working there 10 years ago when I started taking our cars to them. As a small business owner myself, you gotta love a place that treats their employees well enough to retain them that long. Happy mechanics mean a happy customer.
