Can't say enough about them! Trustworthy, fair pricing, and communicative. I won't go anywhere else!

Talked to Chris. Told me they weren't taking on any old cars like mine. Not very helpful. Starting telling me about his cars. I don't care Chris. I just want a timing belt done. read more

Short Version: I really wanted to like Art's Automotive, but I left frustrated. Two calls, two different estimates, no appointment, lots of repetition about work I didn't want, and no follow-up after a promised call back. I'll be taking my car elsewhere. Full Review: I really wanted to like Art's --great reviews, local shop, seemed promising. But my experience was...not great. I first called 8/20/25 with a polite, clear ask: Here's the problem, can I get an estimate and make an appointment? The guy responded: here's how much the part costs, here's the labor (0.5-1 hour), here's what we bill per hour--so you can kind of guess the total. I didn't love that he didn't give me a clear quote or written estimate, but I thought, okay, he's trying to say this is a small job ($400-500) and maybe not worth writing up formally. Not my favorite, but I appreciated the transparency and the fact that he thought he could do the job in under an hour, so I tried to schedule. He was very resistant. He said the next appointment was a week and a half out, but that I could call at 10 AM and see if they'd squeeze me in. When I pressed, "Can I go ahead and make an appointment?" he repeated the 10 AM suggestion. I pointed out the next time I could actually do that would be the following week, and he said, "Yeah, try then." So that's what I did. I drove carefully all week, called back on 8/26/25 before 10 AM, and asked if they might fit me in. This time I was told the job would actually take 1.8 hours, I definitely needed an appointment, and they were booking a week and a half out. Pluses: 1. When I called during open hours, someone answered quickly both times. 2. Both people were transparent about their thinking and pricing, which seemed reasonable. Minuses: 1. If I definitely needed an appointment (as guy #2 said), guy #1 should have just let me schedule one. 2. Both times I got only a verbal outline of cost. Neither was exact, neither in writing, and the two estimates differed significantly. 3. Guy #2 kept pressing me to do more work--replace 3 coils instead of 1. I appreciate hearing someone's expert opinion once, maybe twice. Beyond that is not helpful. By the fourth time, I said, "Hey, you keep talking about doing all the coils and I keep telling you I really just want to do one." He then told me a fifth time why I should do all the coils. He was an engineer, so I don't think it was about upselling. I think he was just a poor listener unable to imagine I'd make a different choice than him. 4. When I explained the first call, it would have been nice if guy #2 had said, "I'm sorry that happened." Instead, he said, "I just walked into the office and asked if anyone remembered talking to you, and they all said no." I doubt someone wandered in off the street giving estimates, and Art's was the only shop I'd called. A little accountability would go a long way. 5. Guy #2 ended the call saying someone else would call me with an estimate. No one ever did. To summarize: I called Art's twice with a clear scope of work and a clear intent to get the job done (I hadn't even called other shops), and ended both calls without a precise estimate or an appointment. For me, that's a 2-star experience: some positives, but overall a waste of time. So instead, I called the mechanic I really like--even though he's 30 miles away--and said, "Here's the problem and here's what I'm hoping to do." Chris at Toy Auto in Redwood City said, "We can do that, here's the estimate, how's next Tuesday?" That's where I'm taking my car, and I'm very confident they'll do the work quickly, for the exact price they clearly stated the first time, the way they always have. read more

I have been going to Art's for 22 years with both old and new cars. First, the nicest people work there. They explain things well, are completely honest and totally trustworthy. I don't know much about cars, but I learn something new every visit. Second, employee's have been there a long time. Always a good sign. If they can't provide what you need, they refer to good places. Prices are fair and reasonable. I don't think you will find a better place in the Berkeley area to service your Japanese car. read more

I am so grateful for Art's Automotive. They seem incredibly trustworthy and that means a lot when I have been taken advantage of by service dealerships. It is so hard to trust a mechanic and I am just so happy for Art's service. Thank you. read more

I've been taking our cars to Art's for about a decade now. They're older Japanese cars, so with each major repair comes the decision-making surrounding whether to keep putting money into this vehicle or not. So far, we've stuck with our older cars and kept repairing them, and Art's has been there to do that. They have always been very thorough in diagnostics, warning me up front what surprises may lurk once they start taking things apart, and giving me sensible options moving forward. They're not going to be the cheapest option, but they will be up front with estimates and are usually very close. As a contrast: I was stranded in another town six months ago and needed a very simple repair, and though I shall not name the shop in question, in the end it would have been cheaper and less stressful for me to buy the part and figure out how to install it on my own. That nightmare made me appreciate the extra effort Art's always goes through to ensure they get as much detail from me as possible about the problem, then communicate throughout the repair process as things unfold. Recommended! read more

Art's was able to properly diagnose and fix a bad wheel bearing that I had been driving with for a few years. About 2-3 years ago I took it to the dealership and they dismissed my concerns. The dealership said the noise I heard was road noise. They didn't even offer to inspect it and sent me home. Over the next few years it got progressively worse and then I remembered that 15 years ago Art's had serviced my previous Honda and done a good job. I was a satisfied customer back then and am a very satisfied customer now. I called the dealer to ask what it would have cost to replace the wheel bearing and it was $20 cheaper but for me it was not worth giving them my service for such a measly savings. Go with Art's they are honest and are true experts with Hondas. read more

I called Art's to check on a maintenance repair message showing up in my car. The person I spoke with was incredibly patronizing to me and talked down to me when I tried to clarify the "service" needed on my car. I have never been treated so poorly. As a therapist, I would never talk with anyone and treat them less than. I took my car to Art's once, was planning to go back but unfortunately the rude treatment doesn't sit right. I'll be finding another place to take my vehicle. read more

I stopped in looking to book an appointment for an electrical issue my car was having. The guy at the front desk came out and took a look under the hood, suggested a few things I could try on my own and sent me on my way no charge. Low and behold their diagnosis was spot on and fixed my issues! read more

These guys really know their stuff They went above and beyond Went the extra mile and emailed me very helpful information that saved my car from breaking down before I even brought my car to them After checking my brakes for the low price of 42$, they somehow figured out how to fix my Prius key so now it's working again! No extra charge Such a blessing, would recommend them in a heartbeat read more

Regular maintenance tuneup. Simple drop off instructions and efficient service. Clear communication on car status and recommendations.

Paul worked with me and was a saint! I had tried everything I could think of prior to coming in, and he was like magic, fixing everything! Plus his pricing was very very fair too. 100% recommend! read more

The customer service provided by Chris at Art's Automotive was incredible. The gas tank on my truck was drilled, vandalized, destroyed by an idiot for a few gallons of gas. The truck had to be towed to my house because it was a three day weekend. I had to file a police report and also an insurance claim. New gas tanks cost $3,000!!!...who knew?...and it takes a week to get a tank from the dealer. The insurance company wanted to have a used tank installed...Chris kept me informed, refused to install a used tank, facilitated the insurance claim, ordered the tank, scheduled a timely and quality installation, and got me and my truck back on the road. Thank you Chris and the technicians at Art's. This was an awful experience that was mitigated by your kind and knowledgeable support. read more

Honest folks AND a good price....what could be more important? I trust their work and I have piece of mind when I drive. I use my car all day for work. read more

Great shop, I have been taking my Toyota truck here for years. They're always very professional and friendly.

My car broke down with a bunch of flashing lights the night before I came in. I called right when they opened and asked if I could tow my honda their way and everything was in the clear, I wasn't guaranteed to be seen that day but i took the chance and they were SO quick. dropped off around 9 and picked up around 3 and fixed the issue immediately. I was shocked at the price and was expecting something outrageous but they didn't overcharge me. I would also like to point out that I am a woman and was not treated less than which is common with auto shops which I really appreciated. I've recommended all my girlfriends here and will be coming back in the future for my go-to auto shop. read more

i was quoted in person $500 for an oil change and brake fluid change on a honda civic. i asked how much was just an oil change and he told me $300. i dont see how they can explain this pricing aside from thats how they try to scam women. not even dealerships price gouge this much on oil changes. read more

When we lived in the Bay Area Art's was our auto shop for major services. We have moved out of the state since then, but they continue to offer their advice regarding our vehicles over the phone and email for free! Don't seek anywhere else to service your hybrid car even if you have to drive across the entire Bay! read more

All the guys are great. Not only do they do careful work on the cars when you have an appointment, but they are sensitive and empathetic about costs, and available by phone if you're on the road and some terrifying light or noise comes on. Simply good folks. read more

0 BS. They tell you exactly what they are going to do and never once do I feel taken advantage of. They fix the issue and charge a fair price, my Wife gets the same treatment as I do. Great for Honda and Toyota. read more

Horrible customer service. Don't treat your loyal customers who have questions and who have obeyed the agreed upon drop off time like they are a pain in ass standing between you and your lunch break. Furthermore, the cursory advice I was given in person was contradicted an hour later by a more thorough and patient service person over the phone. If you must go here, ask for L. or C. read more

First- Unfortunately I could not respond to their post on Google, so I am here on Yelp. Instead of dialoguing ("hey, I'd like to clarify and help you understand why...come on by we'll restart...") they wanted to lecture, so it elevated on Google and I'm spreading it here. Second- and as they said, "First off, my apologies if one of us was unfriendly. That's not ok." Exactly. I will take Kyra's assessment as real, below, "Horrible customer service." Last- I am using my right to inform everyone that they truly cannot work on 'the most popular business car in the US.' What work?? A tire change! Mmhmm. But- it's all good- right around the corner was some of the best customer service, so we are square. read more

Very professional and straightforward. Did maintenance on my prius. Everything. happened as they said it would, when they noticed an issue they called with my options so we could make decisions real time. I will definitely come back for Toyota repair needs. read more

I know that my car is in good hands at Art's Automotive. I appreciate the straightforward, friendly, respectful way I've always been treated. They get the job done and make it a pleasant experience. Highly recommend them. read more

I would like to highly recommend Art's Automotive. I was impressed with the professional, considerate, and friendly service provided in fixing my tire. It's hard these days to find a business that really listens to your concerns without cutting you off. They understood my need to get back on the road promptly to make a delivery on time. read more

Solid folks here. They assessed my car and gave me a fair estimate. Then when I said I might do the work myself they told me what I needed to do and gave me tips on how. Even offered to let me buy the parts through them. read more

It's been a decade since I last wrote to the Yelp community to say how much I trust and appreciate this amazing place. I rely on them for good advice. They NEVER upsell and they understand we're all on budgets. They are friendly and are not rude or condescending to women like most auto outfits. You cannot go wrong with these folks. I'd give em six stars or more if I could. read more

I have not use Art's at this point. BUT Chris helped me out over the phone and saved me time and money. read more

I think quite a lot of people are fooled by just how well the guys at Art's have mastered the soft sell. They'll very sympathetically tell you that your car needs a huge amount of work because they care so very much about your car. A while back I had a 17-year-old car that didn't smog and I brought it over to them to check it out. The guy called me back suggesting an $1100 part replacement. Again on a fricking 17-year-old car that I couldn't have sold for that much at the time. I said I'd regrettably have to consign it to a pick and pull and only /then/ did he say it was possible to clean the part for $300. That still seemed a tad high, but I went with it and that totally fixed it. I remember a similar upsell attempt when I just wanted to take my car in for the routine maintenance. Should've been about $100, they tried to upsell maintenance work at $300+ "if I really cared" about my car. Just watch out for this tactic. They'll try to guilt you into getting stuff you really don't need. If your car's in drivable shape, I think Walter over at Richardson Automotive in SF is about the only honest mechanic I've found on this planet. A hassle if you're in the East Bay, but peace of mind is worth a lot. read more

Oh, these guys. I brought in my car to have them give it the once-over before driving it to Tahoe. After an hour or so, they called me to come pick it up, and then the lot of them stood around the counter explaining that my car was simply oh-so-ruuuuusty and oooooold, and that I simply musssssn't drive it One. Foot. Further. All while they stood around shaking their precious heads, stroking their little beards and clucking their little tongues. So I took it back to my old mechanic (Roger and Co. at Berkeley auto service) who gave it the care it needed, like the rock stars they are. Even though I gave up the Volkswagen ghost and now drive Toyotas, my shop will not be Art's but will be my old one. Seriously guys, take up needlepoint. read more

I have taken my Prius to Toyota of Berkeley for years. I would still be there if it weren't for multiple recommendations I received on Nextdoor. A few key words that sparked my curiosity: "Honest, affordable, thorough, hybrid doctors". Yes! Those words definitely all apply to my recent experience with Art's crew. Chris was the guy who worked with me from the beginning to the very end. He was attentive, informative, professional and its obvious these guys aren't money motivated. Chris went over my service history, gave me a list of all that was "necessary now" and a list that "can wait". My total 130,000 maintenance cost was 1/4 of what TOB were going to cost. Better service at a more affordable price? No brainer! They are an awesome bunch of community contributors. I will FOREVER bring my Prius and/or any future cars I have to them for all my maintenance. Thank you Chris for all your help! read more

I've been going to Art's automotive for the past ~10 years and every time I have an interaction with them they remind me why I keep coming back. They're extremely knowledgeable, trustworthy, and responsive. Wouldn't take my car in anywhere else. read more

My 3rd gen prius broke so i called them and told them what needs to be done (got it diagnosed at toyota) and the guy told me and explained it to me that he cant just fix the ipm inside the inverter and he suggested that i buy the updated used inverter. I could tell that they are honest and just not about money. He helped me and emailed me the things i need in order to fix my prius read more

Incredible service. For months, I had an issue with my doors locking and unlocking erratically, and was super concerned that I had an electrical issue that would be big money to fix. Every other mechanic I called just wanted me to bring my car in at a couple hundred bucks per hour to diagnose, but when I called Art's for yet another opinion, Lute stayed on the phone with me while I explained the issue and suggested a few possible solutions I hadn't even considered. Lo and behold, his insight helped me correct the issue for FREE with a stupidly simple DIY fix. Art's forever. read more

This review is long overdue. I've been taking my cars to Art's for well over 10 years now and I can't imagine going anywhere else! Customer Service is consistently best of the best - they always take the time to explain things in easy-to-understand detail. I can always rely on them to give me smart advice and recommendations. There are never any surprises, and the work is done right the first time. These guys are awesome - they go above and beyond each and every time! read more

These guys horribly overprice simple repairs, so visit here if you want to pay three times or more. I agree with another reviewer who said they have perfected the art of soft sell. We came in with a conditioner issue, it would blow rt and hot air but not cold air. The guy at Art's Automotive reception told us that they first have to do a diagnostic, pump in some gas to determine if there are any leaks in the conditioner system. I asked about price, he said $250, I asked if this is just for diagnostics and not including repairs, he said "yes" this is just for diagnostics - repairs will cost more. So we left. Fortunately I was able to get in touch with a friend whose bf is a car mechanic. He opened up the front hood, got out some part, apparently our car had spares, opened up a panel below the wheel, replaced the burned out part, and our conditioner started blowing cold air. This autoshop was planning to charge $250 for only diagnostics then hundreds of dollars more for what was essentially a 5 minute repair exploiting the fact that many people don't know much about fixing cars. read more

I've been going to Art's for about 25 years. Over that entire time frame, I have enjoyed the best automotive service I can imagine. I go to Art's for routine service as well as more serious issues and have NEVER been disappointed. The staff is super knowledgeable, competent, honest, straightforward and super helpful if you need advice and it's primarily made up of people who have been there for decades, which says something by itself. I have even called them from the road when faced with a problem that needs rapid attention. Art and his people are the best - go there! read more

Art's Auto does not offer the electrical add-on service I was searching for but they recommended me to a solid place that exceeded my expectations. Super grateful. read more

I have no doubt this shop has very competent mechanics. They competently replaced my starter, which on my model is a no brainer--but it was clear they did things correctly--correct fasteners and obvious care in putting things back. I don't think they are a particularly great bargain in the world of independent mechanics, but the costs were in line with similar places. The thing I was disappointed with was the counter person. I am a mechanically competent person and own tools and diagnostic equipment and historically have done all the maintenance and minor repairs on my own cars. In my younger years, I rebuilt engines and am the go to person in my neighborhood for diagnostic and emergency help. But I am 76 years old and am giving up mechanical work on my own cars. I told the fellow that the car needed a new starter, but he put on the estimate $172 for "diagnostics" to see if it needed one without taking my word for it. (Folks, it ain't that hard to diagnose a starter problem). He got really snippy and condescending when I told him it needed a starter, that I had done all the diagnostics it needed, and I do not appreciate that kind of treatment at my age. When I picked up the car, they seemed a bit condescending as well. They noted the oil was "low" and was "dirty". I changed the oil on this car 757 miles earlier and I have changed it religiously every 3000 miles or annually as long as I have owned it. The car has rarely been on a country road. When I got home and pulled the dipstick, the level was fine--I will say that this particular car is very sensitive to being on level ground (Subarus are like that) when you measure the oil level. The oil did not appear to be "dirty" to me. I will let the mechanics' questionable assessment slide, but I will go elsewhere next time. Respecting customers is important. It would not have taken any longer for them to be kind to an old man. read more

I'll never take my car anywhere else. They're knowledgeable, and up front about repairs and possible upcoming repairs. They explain everything thoroughly before and after and are relatively quick. Last time I called they patiently walked me through the issue to be sure it wasn't an easy fix I could do on my own. I've also taken cars here for pre-buy inspection and avoided a few lemons! Well worth the inspection if you're shopping used cars. read more