Initially positive, my experience with Arvada German Garage turned negative after they failed to…read morediagnose a severe oil leak that triggered my check engine light. Their poor communication and vague recommendations led me to another mechanic, who identified the issue. I don't trust them and wouldn't recommend their services.
I've been taking my car to Arvada German Garage for the last six months since moving to Colorado. My first couple of visits for oil changes went smoothly, and I was impressed with the owner, who seemed very nice and informative. I was optimistic that I'd found a reliable shop. However, after my most recent experiences, I've completely changed my mind.
After my second visit, I noticed a rattling noise coming from my engine. When I brought the car in for inspection, they informed me that it was the timing chain and gave me a quote for the repair. However, they didn't explain how serious this issue could be or that it had the potential to ruin my engine if left unchecked. They also mentioned I would need new rear brakes soon, but since I couldn't afford both at the time, I put off the repairs and went on my way.
Last week, I returned for another routine oil change and finally had the rear brakes replaced. I dropped the car off on a Friday and picked it up just before closing. While the brakes were fine, I immediately noticed the check engine light was on, which was not the case when I dropped the car off. I turned around and went back to the shop, where the technician admitted he thought he had "cleared the code" earlier. He cleared it again, but after driving for 10 minutes, the light came back on.
Unfortunately, the shop is closed on weekends, so I had to wait until Monday to return. When I brought it in, I explained the issue again, but they said they would have to keep my car all day to look at it, but I had work so was unable to leave it. I was told to come back Thursday. Already feeling frustrated, I dropped the car off first thing Thursday morning, hoping they would finally resolve the issue.
By late afternoon, I hadn't heard anything, so I called them. The response I got was vague, they weren't sure what the problem was, but they suggested changing the oil filter or possibly replacing the sensors, which would cost $530. But even they admitted they weren't sure if that would fix the problem and that it could be an underlying issue. At this point, I was confused and annoyed, so I took my car back without agreeing to further repairs.
The next day, I took my car to a different mechanic, paid $150 for a diagnostic, and within an hour, they told me I had a severe oil leak around the timing chain and gaskets. This was apparently the cause of the check engine light, and they were shocked that Arvada German Garage had not caught or mentioned this issue. It was a serious problem that I was completely unaware of.
I'm thankful I took my car to another shop before more damage occurred, but I'm extremely disappointed with the service and lack of communication from Arvada German Garage What started as a positive experience has turned into one of frustration and mistrust. I won't be returning to this shop, and based on my experience, I wouldn't recommend them to others.