Advanced European Motor Service has quickly become the only shop I fully trust with my car -- and I want to give a special shoutout to the owner, Brian. As a woman, it's usually tough to find a mechanic who is reliable, truthful, and actually listens to what you're saying about your vehicle. Brian has been all of that and more. This is the second time he has gone out of his way to accommodate us when we were in a pinch, and both experiences were transparent, fair, and genuinely helpful. What really stands out is that they negotiate on behalf of their customers to get the lowest possible price on parts -- you can tell they actually care, not just about the car, but about the person behind it. Even though it's not a European car shop exclusively (ours is a Toyota!), the service has been exceptional every single time. I recommend every woman check them out first -- you'll feel heard, respected, and confident that you're getting honest work at a fair price. read more

I brought my 2018 Audi Q5 to Advanced European after a collision (sprinter van hit my vehicle) to diagnose vibration and rhythmic noise issues that developed afterward. I sent Advanced European a video of my engine vibrating while creeping in reverse but wasn't sure if the issue was truly the engine mounts or some other cause, since I only started to notice this issue after the collision. I wanted Advanced European to review the video that may point to failed engine mounts but to focus their attention on the vibration and rhythmic sounds I heard when creeping in reverse. These vibrations and sounds were the main priority to me, and I trusted that Advanced European would conduct a comprehensive diagnostic by reproducing the issue, identifying the cause, and offering the correct recommendation to repair the cause. Their initial work order stated: "Customer states vehicle was impacted on left front and was repaired but since repair there is a vibration felt at idle. Check and report." It's worth noting that I told Advanced European that the vibration was most apparent in reverse. After their diagnostic, I was told I needed new engine mounts and a camshaft cover reseal, costing roughly $4,300. However, Advanced European said that they could not reproduce the issue and at this time I should have pushed for a more thorough diagnostic given their inability to reproduce it. It was a significant mistake to not request continued testing until they could reproduce the issue with my vehicle before providing repair recommendations. Unfortunately, I trusted Advanced European's expertise and proceeded with the repair anyways because I was concerned that my vehicle may be dangerous to drive, and we used this vehicle to take my infant daughter to and from daycare each day. To their credit, they did provide a photo of my removed engine mounts and said they were indeed worn. Unfortunately, the vibration and noise issues persisted after these repairs, leading me to question whether the diagnostic adequately addressed the specific symptoms. Afterwards, through my own research, I found an Audi Technical Service Bulletin (TSB #2045108/2) that describes symptoms nearly identical to what I was experiencing - vibrations and rattling when pulling away in forward/reverse and during gear changes. This made me wonder if a more targeted diagnostic approach might have identified the root cause initially. I felt that Advanced European, which specializes in European autos, would be aware of such issues and could have presented this Technical Service Bulletin when I initially brought the vehicle in for the specific issues cited in the document. After posting my original review, Advanced European reached out proactively to make things right. They provided a complimentary second diagnostic and are now investigating the specific TSB issue I found. During this visit, when they again said they couldn't reproduce the problem, I was able to demonstrate it clearly with a technician in the vehicle - the vibration and noise were very apparent and loud, especially when reversing. Advanced European acknowledged the issue for the first time and confirmed that they had not been able to reproduce it on their own (before recommending the repairs I paid over $4K for). They've ordered the proper diagnostic tool to check the TSB-related issue and are exploring other possibilities like exhaust-related causes since they cannot yet confirm whether the TSB issue is the root cause. I appreciate their willingness to revisit the problem and their responsive customer service. Areas for improvement: My main concern remains that the initial diagnostic was not comprehensive enough since they did not reproduce the issue and instead recommended repairs that did not solve the primary issue I raised when I first contacted Advanced European. Positives: Quick service, easy scheduling, friendly and responsive communication, and most importantly, their commitment to making things right when concerns were raised. I'll update this review once the investigation is complete. read more

Advanced European Service - Auto Repair Near Me - Kenmore, Washington

Wow talk about accommodation! This place is nothing short of incredible! To sum it up I was leaving a tight parking garage in my Volkswagen Atlas when I knicked a curb. Needed to drive home to Portland the next day to get a friend to the airport however my tire had a decent gash that wouldn't let us do that safely. So I wake up the next day and I'm putting my spare on to drive back..... when I snap off a lug in the spare. Needless to say I was pissed, it was a Sunday, and nothing was open. I made an appointment at a Les Schwab the next day and they turned me away along with one more Les Schwab!! Finally I make it to Kenmore Les Schwab and they say they can fix my tire however not the snapped off lug bolt in my spare. But they recommended me to this place and thank god they did. I call them they said they can have it out by 2:00/3:00! So I take the car there and they were super accommodating, obviously understanding I was in a stressful situation they went to work immediately. Not only that, on a lunch break, one of them went and picked up my fixed tire from Les Schwab so they could put it on themselves. They had the car out by 1:30 (earlier than expected). And we were on the road to Portland and made it to the airport in time. Whether in a pinch or not this place will provide quality and fast service, excellent prices, and hand downs honesty. 10/10 recommend this place to anyone in the Seattle area. read more

Billing isn't appropriate. First time I took in my car the final bill was much higher than the initial estimate. I gave them another chance but the 2nd time the bill was once again much higher than the estimate. High hourly labor rate and their parts mark-up is absurd. read more

Best service and diagnostics for my VW I have ever had. Would not take me car anywhere else.

I accidentally hit a raccoon & the nice people Who work here helped put my car on a jack, zip tie my bumper back on, diagnosed the issues and unscrewed my cars plastic covering for free. They are very honest here I can tell by the way they were helping the customer ahead of me. Their parking lot was full of cars that needed repaired (which is a good thing) I wound up using another shop because they were full and I will be bringing my car here in the future read more

i would stay away from this place in future. Got very expensive repair quote. very limited parking. if you don't pick up the car the same day, you would get threatening call that your car would be towed, considering its a car servicing center, its laughable. Better to stick to more reliable car service area. they charged my close to 250 USD for generating the quote for the service. Stay away from this place. read more

Exceptional Service, Genuine Care! When it comes to auto shops, Advanced European is in a league of its own. For three years, they've been my go-to spot for all things Audi, and they've never let me down. I work in the insurance industry and have heard horror stories from clients and claims adjusters of mechanics taking advantage of customers so feel very lucky to have found Advanced European! Happy, the owner, runs the shop with unwavering integrity and a customer-centric approach. Brian, the lead mechanic, is an expert who is not only knowledgeable but approachable and trustworthy. Each visit reaffirms my trust in their exceptional service, honesty competitive pricing, and above all, their commitment to customer satisfaction making them a rare gem in the automotive industry. The true test came recently when faced with the daunting task of replacing my Q5's engine, Advanced European's support transcended repair work. Despite the complexities and frustration of dealing with an aftermarket warranty, Brian's advocacy and extensive knowledge helped navigate through the bureaucratic mess ensuring that the warranty company honored their commitment, ultimately approving the engine replacement. Then my vehicle was stolen the DAY AFTER the engine was replaced leaving me extremely frustrated, stranded and feeling like I was back at square one Advanced European stepped up again! My Q5 was recovered a few days later and I had it towed to Advanced European. Happy (the owner) was aware of the situation and displayed unparalleled compassion! He personally oversaw a thorough inspection of my vehicle, ensuring that it was returned to me not only repaired but in a condition surpassing its original state. I can't say enough good things about Advanced European. Without hesitation, I recommend this shop to anyone seeking automotive service. Their excellence is not just a standard--it's a promise fulfilled with every interaction. They've earned my trust, and I'm sure they'll earn yours too! read more

Scam artists. Doug outright lied to me and then denied it. Volvo Cars North America put a new engine in my car. A month later the car still wouldn't drive right. Volvo said it needed a new air intake hose and an exhaust leak repair. Volvo quoted me $2500 for the hose and $600 the exhaust. I decided to bring it to AER for a second opinion and I thought they might be cheaper. Doug said it needed the exhaust leak and o2 sensors. I did not want to spend a lot of money on an older vehicle. I told Doug Volvo of Plymouth smoke tested it and said the air intake hose was leaking. He assured me that fixing the exhaust and o2 would solve my problem that it did not need a hose. well $900 for an exhaust and $1,000 for the 02 sensors and the issue is not fixed. the car still needs another $2500 worth of repairs. AER is way over priced. My car also has an issue with an axle volvo of plymouth quoted me $1000. AER quoted me $1,700 Doug said he could maybe do it for $1,300 with after market parts which is still more expensive than the volvo dealership. read more

I finally found a shop close to my home that not only can service my 2017 Porsche Turbo S, but has a fair amount of integrity. Aside from quality service I was also looking for customer service. The several other shops that pride themselves on working on European cars have a fair amount of customer non-service. When I called for an appointment I was greeted by Brian who said to bring the car in (on the same day) and he would check to verify if I needed a 4-way alignment to cure the "crunching" feeling and sound I notice with sharp turns.. Before getting into my car for the test drive he very carefully placed temporary floor mats to protect the carpets. After spinning around the parking lot several times he said the car is fine and the "scrubbing " sound is very common for high performance all-wheel drive vehicles. He could have charged me for the diagnostic visit or even more scheduled me for a 4-way alignment. I was very please with this visit and even more with the vast experience he has with all European cars. Thank you for your time, Brian and GREAT customer service. You'll see me again! read more

Advanced European Service - 2017 Porsche Turbo S - Auto Repair Near Me - Kenmore, Washington

As of a year or two ago, this place has changed hands, and all the folks who used to work on my truck have left. I don't know anything about the new team at all, but this place is a haul for me to get to from home, so I am now looking for a new mechanic. read more

Expert diagnostics and service! AES solved a few major problems that were undiscovered or caused by a dealer service dept. I appreciate the speedy response time, so 5 stars from me! read more

They used to be great. New owner maybe? Previous desk help good, not now. Junky office now, not welcoming. Had service reservation but no part when we arrived and told we needed very expensive repairs. Took it to a dealer for repair; was told we did not need that expensive work done. Was not impressed! read more

Brought my car in for a specific repair because I didn't have the time. The price was $400 more than everyone else, but I could get it in fairly quick and it's convenient for me. There was another part that I was going to replace that was easier to get to, so I ordered it. It was 2 weeks out, but the original hadn't failed. When I got my car back from Advanced European Service, they had repaired the specific part, but completely damage the part I had ordered to do myself. I couldn't drive it for the 2 weeks I had to wait for the part. Stupid mechanic at Advanced European Service. I won't take my car there again. read more

I really had some mixed results coming from this place. I went to this place because the last place I took it to was having some issues finding the problem and thought I needed someone who had more experience with my VW. So I took it in......It was there for two weeks and a few days. The bad part is they didn't always keep me updated. I would have to call them at times. One thing that I appreciated was that I felt as though they were trying not to just throw parts into my car hoping that it would fix the issue. My problem was that my car would randomly jerk, dropping in RPMs and felt like a roller coaster. When I got the call that my car was done I asked if they had time to make the code change that I asked as I had installed a hatch pop kit and it needed was a simple change in the code using a vag-com. Well, when I received it back, my trunk would no longer open. I mean it could very well be a coincidence that the same day they were changing the code that my trunk no longer opened. I was told that they could not communicate with the trunk module and think it needed to be replaced. A little suspicious but it's a 2008 and coincidences do happen After driving my car for a few days I received a message from Happy, the manager, asking me if everything was okay with the repairs. I explained that the trunk didn't work. He said I should bring it in but wanted to drive it a few days to give them more information to see if the issue was fixed. I wanted to check the oil cap that they replaced because I have gone through so many oil caps breaking. They ordered me an OEM. When I opened up the hood I noticed that part of my air intake was missing. Mistakes happen but when it comes to a car it's a little more than forgetting to turn on your dishwasher. There is a few reasons why I chose not to take my care back to them. First, very inconsistent communication, and second, when I notified Happy, the manager I was taking my car to the VW service because I needed a loaner and sent him a picture of the missing part on the air intake I didn't hear a word. I now have to pay for the replacement of the part and they lose a customer. It was a hard decision for me but I need someone who isn't so slammed that mechanics are too busy to put parts back together. I also want to say that my experience is my experience. There are plenty of good reviews for this place. One semi bad review doesn't mean that it's a bad place. No place is perfect. read more

I had high hopes for my first service at Advanced European Service. Unfortunately, my experience fell far short of expectations. As I'm new to the area, I searched for a competent team to service my BMW M3 and Mercedes-Benz 350 Wagon. I initially came in to have my steering pump repaired and front splash guards installed. My car was in your shop for over three weeks, and I spent over $1200 for a system flush. The problem is that the car was promised to be completed several times, with me only to find out after walking to the shop that the part's installation was not complete and would cause additional delays. The team overpromised and caused considerable inconvenience for me as I had made plans to use the car that day and was left stranded. To add insult to injury, after swallowing the bitter pill of receiving a car after more than a month in service, they forgot to install the front splash guards. I've owned my car for almost a decade and have likely spent north of 30k in service parts, maintaining it, and have never experienced such bad customer service. Is this the best Kenmore has to offer? They should consider renaming their business to something more indicative of the service level provided because what I experienced was nothing short of amateur hour. read more

These guys are great. I have had my Audi for going on 14 years (205K miles) and these guys are the only ones that have ever worked on it. They did it again! Last week the Audi was in for some front end work. There was an issue with it after I picked it up. Took it back to the shop and Brian and the guys got right on it. They stand by their work. HIGHLY recommend!!! read more

Called today 11/24 guy gave great free advice over the phone he was super honest and I did not need to come in. Will definitely save this business for my needs in the future. read more

I have taken my cars here for years and always been well taken care of. Last service was a few weeks ago and no exception. Friendly, knowledgable, and straight forward. They always give a quote before doing any work. I have never had a problem getting an answer to a question in person or by phone. Brian and Happy made space for me to bring the car in on a day I was not scheduled and I appreciate their willingness to work me in. read more

Great experience! Everyone was friendly and helpful. I thought my alternator was dead and Brian was able to get one expedited for next day. After his expert examination he found it was 'just' the battery. That 'just' saved me $700. So I'll be back next time she needs service, and send my friends. read more

Found this shop looking for a pre purchase inspection to be done on a car. I've had countless of these done over the years and this has been hands down the beat experience I've ever had. Customer service and staff were excellent. They emailed me a report after that included a quote for all the work that needed to be completed. This even included pictures of all the problematic areas. All provided through a simple and easy to use web link. Their prices are very fair and technicians are knowledgeable. I'm blown away by my experience and will be giving all my business here. Thanks again! read more

This was the best car service experience I've ever had. The culture the new ownership has built here is amazing. It is all about the customer and long term retention. I felt 100% confident I was treated fairly and the pricing was great. The owner ordered lunch for the team and even ended up feeding me while I waited. This is like service I would have expected in the glory days of small businesses!!!!!! If they can handle my high end Porsche this well I have no doubt they are great at any car. Bring your business here. read more

Advanced European Service - Auto Repair Near Me - Kenmore, Washington

Hi fives to Happy, Brian and the crew! Brian found that my car was still under warranty for a very expensive repair. I would have never known! The car has 95k miles on it! Instead of doing the repair they are sending me back to the dealership, saving me $$$! They are always friendly, helpful, and honest. Customer for life!! read more

Nice guys, but not impressed at all. Bill ended up being over 200% of what we talked about. Despite them saying how much money they would save me, it cost way too much. Followup is terrible, still waiting for a call back from them, doubt they will follow through. I would not recommend these guys at all. read more

I met Tony for the very first time yesterday. I approached him with a tire problem. My Son's front tricycle wheel had a valve stem stuck between the tire and hub. I left the front tire with Tony. In matter of hours he was able to resolve the problem. I asked him, "How much do I owe you?" He replied, "He said it was FREE." I think I'll be bringing my vehicles to him in the future. Thanks, TONY. read more

Happy and his crew are fairly priced, excellent, honest, and fast. Much appreciated gentlemen!

The guys at Advanced European Service are always very professional, knowledgeable, do good and honest work. They are willing to go the extra mile!! I appreciate them a lot. read more

This place is great. Car maintenance can be intimidating but I found them to be professional, transparent, and helpful. This will be my go-to for car maintenance in the future. read more

I've been taking my Audi TT for service at Advanced European Service for about a year and this is the best shop I have ever worked with. Fair honest and absolutely the best customer service I have ever encountered. Today I had no choice but to leave my Audi at their shop without an appointment due to a leaking radiator hose. Sarah made it happen she found the part and fit me in. Very fair prices and outstanding repair and customer service. Thank you for saving me the cost of at least 4 days of rental car bills as well! read more

I recently took my 3 Series to another shop for a second opinion on what Tony (the shop owner) said was a 'critical' repair. One of many I have paid for over the years. After 5 minutes of inspection, Brian at Strictly BMW in Bellevue told me the repair was not necessary at all. He even have me a detailed explanation of why the repair wasn't needed and even showed me first hand under the hood. He saved me what Tony would have charged... almost $850! This shop has consistently pressured me to replace parts and get service out of fear of catastrophic failure. Usually nothing major, but something I 'may want to give serious thought to down the road'. I now have my own proof that they are just padding the bill and taking advantage of their customers. Maybe not in all cases, but certainly in mine. I'll never go back to them. Not even for an oil change... or the much needed brake replacement ($600+) that he highly recommended (and I never got) 3 years ago. If you want a mechanic you can trust, I'd look somewhere else. :( read more

My Audi needed new rear brakes and like any pro yelper I called around to different repair shops for over the phone quotes. Advanced European Service was my 1st call and Sarah responded promptly and courteously to my inquiries. I can tell you the other 3 shops did not take my call in this manner and in fact some were pretty rude, as if they were the only option in town. With all the costs coming in at the same price, Sarah's customer service edged Advanced European Service ahead of the others. On the day of service I was kept up to date of the timing and pricing was reconfirmed as quoted. I was happily sent back on the road with new brakes and would not hesitate to recommend AES to anyone! read more

I was referred to Advanced European Service for my Jaguar in 2013. Since then I have had Tony repair several minor issues after having the dealership try to convince me the issues were much more severe in nature. I'm not the most trusting person when it comes to auto mechanics but to give Tony and European Auto credit due... They have took care of me (and my friends I've referred) each time I have went to them. Thank You Tony! read more

The alternator on my 2007 VW Passat died at 11 a.m. on a Friday morning. I had it towed to a local tire repair shop who recommended Advanced European. They came towed my car to their shop. My husband called me at 4 p.m. that same day and told me the alternator had been replaced. They did an outstanding job. I am so very grateful for their service. Most highly recommend. Thank you Happy! read more

I've known Tony Ochsner for over 10-Years now; religiously taking a number of vehicles to him for Service / Maintenance / Repairs. Admittedly not all of these have been made by European Manufactures. Nonetheless Tony has always maintained a willingness to be our advocate when we find ourselves in need for repairs. There has even been a time or two when "grey" areas have crept up where Advanced European absorbed associated charges vs. deflecting; as I am sure a lot of other shops do. I imagine this is not the cheapest place in town. However there is truth to the old saying "you get what you pay for." The supplied warranty is pretty impressive. The staff have always been very professional and friendly. Being supplied with a prioritized list of recommended services offers great peace of mind. Both the service and the quality of work have always been top notch over these past 10+ Years. Bottom line is as long as our family resides within the Kenmore area; we will be AES customers. We will also continue to promote / refer AES to family and friends - as I hope you do to. read more

I used to have an Audi that liked to fall apart every few months, so I took it here. Chip, the owner, is a really good guy and was able to cut prices on some repairs by getting good used parts. He was straightforward and told me exactly what was going on with my car, kept in touch to let me know how repairs were coming along, and let me know if there were things that were going to conk out soon. and he offers some really good deals every month if you get on his mailing list. Like a free 50-pt inspection with an oil change, 10% of new brakes, etc... He also ended up buying the Audi when it finally breathed its last, which kept it from getting impounded (again). And he usually has cars for sale too, that he's repaired--he'll guarantee the work. So I definitely recommend taking your car there if you've got an Audi, VW, volvo, etc... read more

I was able to book a prepurchase inspection with short notice. I was given an honest opinion that allowed me to make the right decision. The photos helped me see what I was getting myself into and they also provided cost estimates. Great work.... thanks read more

Tony and his crew are simply top notch. Honest and trustworthy, this shop is a gem in the Woodinville/Lake City part of town. I took my Audi and BMW here and always were satisfied with their service and quality. Their parts and labor cost is lower than most independent shops north of Seattle. Which is saying a lot especially when considering the quality of their work and warranty coverage. read more

I will start this review by stating that I HATE car repair shops, and always feel extremely uncomfortable. Thus, I am pleased to state that I will always go to Advanced European Service from hereon out. The owner is extremely trustworthy and straightforward, and leaves me with the feeling that my best interests are always in mind. I've left cheap auto places and oil change shops feeling cheated and taken advantage of, which is exactly the opposite of any experience I've ever had here. The employees are friendly and helpful, the service is fantastic. I appreciate the honesty and partnership I receive whenever I've had my car serviced here. HIGHLY recommended!! read more

I took my BMW X3 to Tony from a referral of a good friend who had her car serviced there years ago. I needed an inspection for a rumbling I heard coming from my tires. He presented me with a long list of repairs. After prioritizing them, I had him repair the critical issues. Since then I had a second opinion done at a BMW repair shop and they informed me that many of the suggested repairs were unnecessary. Through an inspection at the second repair shop it was discovered that a leak in my radiator was in all probability damaged by the repair done at Tony's. I was VERY DISAPPOINTED that he did not prove to be as reliable as his reviews and referrals suggested. read more

Tony is a good, honest person, running a good, honest business. He knows how to take care of my Mini as he has one himself. Thank you, Tony. read more