Bringing your car to Art's is like giving your car a spa treatment. Your car will love you. Highly recommend, they're real pro's and they work insanely fast. Art's team did a magnificent job on our two cars. The engine in one of our cars was leaking oil, truly was a mess. These guys replaced parts and sealed the leak, and VOILA, car was ready within a few hours. BUT YOU MUST CALL AHEAD FOR AN APPOINTMENT AND ARRIVE EARLY (between 8am and 10am). I checked the work they did on my car and they did a real nice and clean job. For the long term piece of mind, you definitely get your money's worth. read more

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. read more

They were fantastic!! I brought in my Prius to get my FOB(them fancy electronic) keys programmed all the way from Fremont. they explained everything on the phone, and in person. Everything is done perfect, and on top of that, everyone there is really friendly. The pricing is very honest, considering everyone else I called in the Bay Area was going to charge me 2 or 3 time more for the work. I did my research on how these FOB keys are programmed(a good portion came from Art's web site), so I kind of know how long this will take. I can't recommend more highly for a shop to work on my Prius, or any other car. read more

I hate hate hate auto mechanics. Or I used to, anyhow, until I started going to these guys. I've had a few Hondas and now my wife takes her Honda to them as well. Much of the time, when we bring a car in, they actually tell us that we DON'T need as much done as we might think. They could easily make a mint just replacing stuff, but they have often advised us that we don't need much or have given us workarounds that over the years have saved us thousands of dollars, no joke. That's all fine and good, but what compelled me to write this review was two experiences. First, I have a friend w/very little money who was told she would not pass the smog test unless she did some major work. I suggested she call Art's, and Art himself spent over an hour on the phone w/her advising her of her many options. Second, I recently brought my 12 year-old Honda Civic in, and they told me the car would go another 6 or so months without major repairs, but at that point, it would need more work than the car is worth. So they suggested I start shopping, which I did. Now, many months later, the car is on its way out of my life, and I narrowed my new car choices down. Then I called Art's and Chris spent well over an hour with me on the phone going over my choices and informing me of the mechanical pluses and minuses of each. He didn't know who I was, but was so so generous w/his time nonetheless and saved me much time and grief. I am hoping to get my new car this week, and I wouldn't have known what to do without Art's Auto. In fact, I wouldn't suggest anyone buy a car brand unless they work on it. read more

A great shop that really went above and beyond for me. Before I even brought my car in Jared spent 15 mins on the phone with me talking through what might be the problem and making suggestions. Then after diagnosing my 2007 Prius with a dreaded hybrid battery problem, talked me through my options and was upfront and understanding that the costs to fix were probably not worth it. Because my car would start but not drive at this point, they were super patient and helpful while I figured out how to get it out of there and did more than they needed to helping me do so. Really appreciated his honesty and effort in educating me about what was going on with me car. Whatever car I get next, I'll make sure to bring it back here. read more

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! read more

The reviews are true. I actually left an auto repair shop HAPPY. I know NOTHING about cars and I'm not exactly full of cash. They took my car in on an emergency basis (I seriously thought it had died and had it towed into the shop) and I received a phone call the same day with an update. They prepared me for the worst case scenario- a new transmission- but also let me know that they were able to fix a much smaller issue and would test drive it the next day to see if that had solved the problem. The man I spoke to (I can't remember his name) was very thorough and detailed in letting me know what was going on, even though I'm sure he knew I had no idea what he was talking about, haha:) Received a call the next day letting me know they had put about ten miles on my car with no issues- and fingers crossed- I won't have to replace my transmission. I was able to pick my car up without going flat broke. The fact that they were honest and didn't rip me off meant the world to me, because it's happened to me before and it really sucks. This is the only experience I've had at a shop where I actually felt safe, and I've been through four cars (all mid to high-mileage). I will take my car to Art's from here out and will recommend them to anyone. Really glad I found this place! read more

I recently had the clutch go on my Honda FIT. The dealership charged me $167 just to look at it. I agreed to repairs to the tune of $2800 but almost immediately changed my mind. I had the car towed to Art's and they checked it for free and repaired it for 1200, less than half the dealership price. Been over a month now and the car is working great. read more

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. read more

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. read more

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. read more

This review is long over due considering how many times they have come through for us. First of all, there are several auto shops in and around West Berkeley. My husband has taken his Subaru to a few places here. After finding Art's on Yelp and reading all of the glowing reviews, I decided that we should commit to one mechanic and took his Subaru there after a few mechanics couldn't solve an O2 sensor issue, which Art's finally solved. After that incident, my husband, who is always on the hunt for a bargain, noticed that the car squealed whenever he turned the steering wheel. He went to a mechanic on our block who said we needed a new alternator. He already left the car with him in order for him to do the service. I did some research that night and found out there were several possible causes for this, none of which included the alternator. This drew up a huge red flag and I demanded that he pick it up the next day and take the car to Art's instead. Lo and behold, the issue was NOT the alternator and turned out a belt needed to be tightened. I have absolute faith in the crew at Art's not to deceive me or my husband and to offer only what the car needs. After dodging that bullet with the other mechanic, there really is no other place we'll be taking our cars for maintenance, which now includes oil changes. Admittedly I thought I could save a few bucks by going to another area oil changer but soon realized those guys kept pushing products on me that my car didn't need. read more

Great honest service. They explain options And pricing thoroughly before they do anything and give you the option to make the decision instead of pressuring you to do what they want totally need will only take my car there from now on read more

No car repair shop has ever measured up to the two years I spent getting my Toyota Highlander serviced at Art's. These guys are up front, easy to talk to, and worthy of a customer's trust. They have done both cheap repairs and expensive repairs for me, and in either scenario I felt like I got a good deal. Believe the hype, Art's is as good as it gets. read more

One of the most affordable places to get synthetic oil change in Roseville. You're never gonna wait too long super friendly staff they even have snacks coffee and tea while you wait :) read more

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! read more

I was a customer at Art's for years. I spent thousands of dollars. When things got bad for me... serious health problems, and car issues, etc., Art and Lute promised to help, but changed their minds and did not help. They could have been a hold lot nicer. read more

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. read more

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. read more

We took our old car here for a checkup ahead of a road trip. As far as we can tell, the inspection went fine, but where we really appreciated this place was the staff and communication. They were polite and articulate, and the level of detail that went into the report, as well as our plans for the future of this car, was excellent. The price was also reasonable for the full inspection and oil change (~$225 total). read more

Awesome place - people are honest and easy to deal with. I am comfortable going to Art's because I feel I will not be taken advantage of because of my lack of knowledge of mechanical/car stuff. They are just very helpful, straightforward and kind. Thank gad, it is right next to where I live! read more

I was at first skeptical as I approached the shop. But, Art (who I spoke to by phone) and his staff really know what they're doing. I made a mistake of not calling in for an appointment and just driving up...on a holiday weekend. They were fully booked of course, so I took the next available day. When I brought my car in they explained possible problems/solutions and got to diagnosing/testing quickly, gave me a call and explained what they found and what they could do to fix it. So, far, so good...they did a really nice repair job! The only thing I would like more is a lower price for repairs! Discount anyone? ; ) I would definitely take my vehicle back to Art's for work in the future. read more

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 read more

Been taking cars here for about as long as I've been driving (which I shan't reveal, but it's getting up there), and they've always given us top notch service, despite probably laughing at our family foibles as total car noobs. Friendly, efficient, they never recommend more service than seems necessary, but still offer honest opinions about what they see as important or not, which comes from many years of experience with a ton of cars. I know this because they are ALWAYS busy, which is their one drawback, but it makes sense. It's been a pleasure working with these guys, and I dread moving out of the area or buying a car they don't service because finding a mechanic shop like this one would be hard to do! read more

Is it possible to love a repair shop? If so, I do. I've been going to them for years so this review has been long in the waiting. Lute, Chris, Morgan, Eric, and Art: Double high-fives all around. Honesty, integrity, fair prices, quality workmanship and having their customers' best interests in mind: these are not concepts that one would often use when thinking of how to describe an auto repair shop. However, Art's is not just any repair shop. Art's is special. My grandfather was a mechanic in a small town, back-in-the-day, and this place always makes me think of him. Recently, my car broke down while I was out-of-town and I was forced to tow it to another repair shop. I actually arranged to have it towed AGAIN (all the way to Art's in Berkeley) because... well... it's Art's; I trust their opinion and I know that they are fair. That level of trust is priceless. These guys are the real deal. They are most definitely deserving of 5+ stars. read more

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. read more

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. read more

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. read more

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. read more

Never thought I'd find an honest mechanic in my life but I stumbled upon Arts Automotive when i moved to the bay and haven't taken my car anywhere else. They also specialize in Prius' and have been very helpful with the few tiny issues that I've had and completely came through in the clutch for me with the one big problem I had. On top of the honesty and professionalism, the whole staff is cool and friendly. Gotta love it! I do. read more

Just spoke with one of the mechanics at Art's to get a rough estimate for some minor work to my Honda Civic. Outstanding customer service and and super honest advice. If I end up working with these guys I will definitely update this yelp review but for the time being, I am super impressed. read more

Absolutely love Art's Automotive. My partner and I have been loyal customers through 9 years and three finnicky hand-me-down Priuses, and always been struck by their integrity, thoroughness, skill, and kindness. Today I just had to write a review because I got to meet Art himself (!!) who came out during his lunch break, while the rest of the office was closed, to help me locate my car for a AAA tow. He then helped the tow truck driver push this incredibly heavy car in neutral until it was all ready to tow. What a total mensch!! read more

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!!! read more

Been with them for over 15 years. 3 Honda's, and an Infiniti later I still won't make an automotive move without a consult. They are always friendly, straightforward, kind and have a sense of humor. Most importantly, they know cars! Nice eye candy too. read more

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. read more

I just took my 2004 Scion xA to Art's for its 60K service and new tires. I droppped the car off at 8 am and it was ready for pickup by 4 pm. The total was about $900 for the service and second to top of the line tires -- very reasonable. The final total was very close to the original quote. Not knowing much about auto care, I am always worried that the mechanic will 'mysteriously' find all sorts of very expensive repairs that need to be fixed immediately, and being fearful of this sort of thing I'll feel obliged to agree to them. I was pleasantly surprised with how straightforward the service was at Art's. Paul, the mechanic I spoke to, took the time to explain the details of the 60K service and the quality of the tires when I first dropped my car off. It was very much appreciated. Overall, I was extremely pleased with their service and will likely use them again for both of our cars. A couple of things to note: Art's is a bit pricier than other mechanics in the area. However, they are still significantly cheaper than taking your car to the dealer. Also, they are incredibly busy and it can be hard to get an appointment on the day of your choice. That said, when scheduling my appointment it didn't seem like I would have had to wait for more than 3 or 4 days. read more

I don't normally write yelp reviews but I want to add to the accolades here as Art's has consistently given me excellent service, not just in the work they do but equally important, they are always extremely informed, patient and thorough in helping me with issues that arise, whether that is on the phone or in the office. They really know Priuses!! read more

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. read more

Hood of our car broke at the registration inspection. Checked Yelp. Called Art's. They were super honest and informative, with worst and best case rough price estimates and an explanation of various possible scenarios. Best of all, they talked me through fixing the thing myself free of charge. The hood isn't as perfectly convenient as it used to be, but it works and it's safe and the fix was free and took less than a minute. We will definitely take our vehicle here for any service in the future. read more

Lute and the crew at Art's are as good as it gets. Super knowledgeable, friendly, honest, and do great work. I had a weird intermittent problem with the AC in my old Odyssey, and Lute had it fixed before I even walked out the door! I'll never take my car anywhere else. read more