This is the second service that I drove across the county for. They earn those high ratings! Clear explanations and expectations. Efficient and focused. I appreciated the AAA discount and free shuttle to/from nearby cafes while waiting. Owner Steve is excellent, an expert mechanic with decades of Honda know-how; he sets an easy tone of integrity that trickles down to all his friendly staff. Can't recommend them enough for your high ticket repairs. Thank you kindly, Automotive Instincts, for a great experience! :) read more

Great shop, great staff, great parking! Thank you David for the excellent communication process and Rodolfo for the expertise in his field!! Danny & Edwin are both awesome welcoming individuals up front as well! read more

Good and fair mechanics. They have been honest and helpful always. They have accurately diagnosed weird issues. Been going to them for years. read more

I'm updating this review because the business response is misleading. I have a voicemail from Steve clearly stating that they did not want to get involved with my vehicle because another shop had already worked on it and he did not want me to possibly "get upset at them too." That was the exact reasoning given. This was not about warranty. It was not about saving me money. I was fully prepared to pay for an inspection or any necessary correction. I was simply asking for a professional second opinion. If a shop refuses work because they're concerned a customer might "get upset," that raises serious questions about confidence in their own work. A reputable shop stands behind its skills and diagnoses issues regardless of who previously touched the vehicle. Changing the explanation publicly after the fact does not reflect well. I stand by what I said. I had a very disappointing experience at Automotive Instincts in Northridge. I called and spoke with Steve about looking at my car after another shop had worked on it, and he basically told me they didn't want to touch it because another shop already did the work. His reasoning was that he didn't want me to "get upset at them too." That makes absolutely no sense. As a customer, I'm simply looking for a professional second opinion or proper correction if something wasn't done right. Refusing to even inspect the vehicle just because another shop previously worked on it feels unprofessional and dismissive. Cars get worked on by multiple shops all the time -- that's normal. Turning someone away out of fear of a bad review instead of standing behind your own skills says a lot. Very disappointing customer service. I expected more professionalism and confidence from a shop with such high ratings. read more

I recently brought my car into Automotive Instincts in Northridge for a diagnostic scan after experiencing some issues the week prior, and I had a great experience. The team was very friendly, accommodating, and professional from the moment I walked in. They even have a comfortable space where I was able to set up my computer and get work done while they scanned my car, which I really appreciated. Once the diagnostic was complete, they clearly explained the results and walked me through my options without any pressure. Everything was informative, straightforward, and handled with professionalism. I wouldn't hesitate to bring my car back here again. read more

A relatively small shop that offers competence with the amenities of a dealership, prices are fair and service is great.

It's nice to find a Honest Auto Repair shop and these guys are. They listen to my complaints and gave me a honest estimate to diagnose the issue and kept me informed on how the repairs on the car were going. They were able to repair my car in a timely manner and have been happy with the repairs. Their shop is really clean and they took care of my car and gave it back to me cleaner than I brought it to them. Their prices are very competitive and a good value. read more

If you are looking for an honest and reliable place to take your car for all your needs, this is the place right here! Everyone was very attentive and helpful from start to finish. Edwin and Danny were very polite when checking me in to my appointment. I am glad I decided to do a full inspection on my car with them because once that was complete, both Rodolfo and David did an excellent job in explaining to me exactly what my car needed. Once the car was ready, they showed me all the work that was done to the car and I immediately felt a difference in the best way once I drove it home. I'm very satisfied with the service at Automotive Instincts and do plan to bring my car here for maintenance or any other work that may need be done in the future! read more

Great work, solid people and clean/tidy space. Would definitely come in again for future work.

I've brought my car here twice now. Once for tires, once for alignment. Both times they did what they said they would. Not overly friendly, but not rude either. Just honest work, which I appreciate. read more

Came here for a 2nd opinion after visiting dealer on some recommended services and boy am I glad I did. Automotive Instincs was transparent and honest about services that are actually needed and they provided a checklist just like the dealer. They also report service to Carfax that is a great + in my book. You have a new customer for both my cars. Thank you! These guys are honest. read more

Just with a phone call, I got all my answers in a professional manner. This is the kind of business that I will definitely recommend. read more

This shop determines what make car I buy. If Automotive Instincts doesn't service it, I won't buy it. They are scrupulously honest. I fact, when my 8 year old Camry Hybrid with 100K miles needed a $4500 repair, they told me not to do it. They said to use the money towards a new car. Now, what mechanic does that?!? Automotive Instincts advised against a huge job so that I could do what's best for me. I traded it in and bought another Toyota because Automotive Instincts will take good care of me! read more

I have been coming here for a few years now, and every time I do I continue to be thoroughly surprised by the professionalism and high quality work. Edwin and Scott in the front are both very friendly and helpful. The prices are fair and they always go above and beyond to provide great customer service. They have fixed issues that other mechanics couldn't figure out and they also have better quality products than the Honda dealership! I recommend all my friends and family with Honda's to them, and if you have a Honda I recommend you check them out as well! Another great thing is how honest they are, I have never felt taken advantage of or like they have tried to up sale anything. They explain everything and give there honest diagnostic and timeline on what order things should be taken care of. Just all around a great mechanic! read more

When it comes to service and reliability, this is my go to auto shop. Personnels have always been transparent when it comes to price and labor and they will tell you honestly if your car doesnt still need this type of service or replacement. This is my third review and with all sincerety, i only have praises with regards to this shop's credibility. read more

Empower the deserving, the ones whom do you right. For legality, I won't mention make of my Japanese car. All lights in the console turned on like Christmas tree, eyesight off, active cruise control, brake,..... I took to the dealership and they were going to charge me an exuberant amount. A friend recommended that I go see Steve at Automotive Instinct in Northridge. I went there and met Edwin Rivera. After he had the car inspected, he quoted me a fair price and was very upfront with me about the parts that our really need to be replaced versus others. I trust him. He did me well. read more

Danny was very professional. I live out of state and my daughter goes to CSUN. She had an issue with her car and Danny took care of everything over the phone with me, they didn't try to upsale me on anything, he explained what was wrong and made recommendations, my daughter was happy they talked to her very professional as well. read more

Heidi was awesome and got us set up same day for a catalytic converter guard. She even explained all the benefits and reassured us about our purchase. The process went rapidly and we were in and out of the shop super quick for drop off and pick up. Once the car was finished, Heidi showed us pictures of the new guard and before and after images. My family is a big fan of Automotive Instincts! read more

Automotive Instincts - Showcasing the newly installed Catalytic Converter Guard - Auto Repair Near Me - Northridge, California

Edwin made sure that all my concerns on my 2019 Camry are addressed prior our trip to Oregon. Was surprised that the car's engine bay was also cleaned! This automotive shop is highly recommended. read more

Thank you Automotive Instincts! This Shop is such a vibe, shout out to the front staff team for being so welcoming and the technician squad for being such experts! read more

Automotive Instincts - Auto Repair Near Me - Northridge, California

This shop is the best in the valley. Feels very family oriented! Heidi is my girl, she takes care of all my services on both of my cars. They appreciate your business and remind me of my value to the company in the best way possible! We've been bring our cars to this shop for about 3 years now and will continue to do so. read more

The gentlemen here really know how to get the job done, the right way. Proud to be a timeless member of the Automotive Instincts community. read more

Automotive Instincts - Acura Rsx Type-S - Auto Repair Near Me - Northridge, California

I had requested an online quote for some impact damage to the supporting frame under my car but Steve contacted me to come into the shop so he could take a look at it. He was extremely helpful and showed me exactly what I needed to do even though their shop couldn't fix it themselves. He reassured me that it wasn't dangerous to drive but recommended I go to a body shop through my insurance. I've gone to Automotive Instincts for brake work and maintenance before and they always take such great care of my car and for a reasonable price. They're trustworthy and you can tell they take pride in their work. read more

An amazing repair shop that you should definitely check out if your car is a brand that they support. I came to this shop to get my car check out because it was making noise when making a left turn. I saw online that it could be that the brake pad metal clip is out of place and just need to be adjusted back. So instead of going to the dealer who might charge me a lot for the service I came here based on their wonderful reviews. I talked to Steve through Yelp and told him when I was going to the shop. He wasn't there but told another employee to expect me.. They realign the metal clip, checked out my brake pads and tires during the process. I also asked that they be careful around my custom door sill and they respected that. The best thing is that they didn't even charge me for the service of realigning the clips, added some lube and now the noise is gone. read more

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Heidi is the best service advisor I've ever worked with! Honda dealership down the road gave me recommendations and quoted me over $2k of repairs and made me think my car is in a worse condition than it really was. When I called up Automotive Instincts, Heidi helped me out. She was clear and professional on what they would help provide. There's no beating around the bush. They were able to get me in and even had a shuttle service. Ended up only spending $350 with full safety inspection and brake fluid service. And helped top off my other liquids. Their price is reasonable and comparable to the others in the area (I checked with 5 other auto repair shops). What makes them stand out is how they approach the issue instead of taking Honda dealership for their word, their great attitude, and overall service conduct. They will provide you clear paperwork of what service as been done at the end and the cost breakdown. Robert (sorry if I misspell) is the best driver with the shuttle service he provided. He's a delight to talk to on the drive and has many of years under his belt to ensure you get to the next destination safe and sound. There wasn't a rude inkling of any sorts here. I'm grateful folks like them are around making getting car inspections and repairs a hassle-free, stress-free and pleasant experience. Waiting Space: There is a couch in the same space as the service counters. It seems like a comfy place to sit down. Reminds me of going over to my grandparent's place style couch. Restroom: Not sure.. I imagine there is one. Now, my car isn't having the issues it was having before. Will definitely come to them again if I have any repairs in the future. Highly recommend them to anyone that needs a reliable auto repair shop! read more

Above and beyond. Honest in the car inspection. Services done was great at a fair cost. I got a discount too for having AAA card. Steve was so nice in the telephone, Edwin and Heidi was so friendly. Regular maintenance done for my 2007 Mazda CX-9. Change the transmission, coolant and brake fluid. Technician Rodolfo even clean my battery connectors and terminal. Highly recommended to everyone. read more

Very professional team, they are just enough, Automotive Instincts diagnosed my car for nothing serious, but I probably need a hybrid battery replacement soon! for free, They also helped me with an absolute misunderstanding from me. Great Team, 100% recommend it to people looking for a great experience. read more

I had a wonderful experience here! I came in for a coil/spark plug issue and an oil change. I gave them my car and let them handle it and they fixed it up nicely. They're super transparent with their prices and is honest. They have a clean seating area inside where you can sit and wait. The best thing that I loved was their shuttle services. Thank you to David who was super professional and kind! read more

This is my second review for this place. I needed new tires for my minivan, and had questions to 'dealer recommendations' on my vehicle. Steve was very helpful in getting me the right information and costs for my tires. He even called me back a few minutes later to confirm he quoted me the correct amount. They got the tires quickly and I called and spoke with Heidi to set up the appointment. Heidi also answered a lot of my questions regarding the dealer recommendations. She was very honest about the necessity for them, and that reassured me that they were not trying to just take my money. I got my vehicle a few hours earlier than expected. This is the first time I've taken this vehicle (I've taken my previous ones here), and the service is absolutely amazing and fantastic. They are professional's through-and-through. Definitely my go-to place. read more

I had my brakes replaced here. They did a great job at a fair price. Excellent customer service. They will definitely be my new automotive experts. read more

Automotive instincts has been a good reliable source for all of my Honda repairs dating back to 2005. They're pretty routine and they don't sell you stuff you don't need. There's straight shooters and honest. I've taken my last three cars here. And the AAA discount is nice. read more

I called Automotive Instincts after taking my car to a Toyota dealership. The Toyota dealership made me wait nearly 30 minutes to speak to someone even with an appointment, and when they called me later that day, I was freaking out that they were recommending nearly 5 grand in repairs. The Toyota shop makes you feel like you're just a number and you can never get ahold of them on the phone. Automotive Instincts, in contrast, answered right away and were very attentive to my concerns. Heidi told me that they would run their own testing on what was essential to fix, and she kept me updated every step of the process. She made me feel very relaxed and I knew immediately within the first couple minutes that I made the right choice coming here. The team even went above and beyond and repaired a brake noise that I had forgotten about. Their attention to detail is amazing and their customer service is excellent. So far, my car is running incredibly well, and they were able to make all of my needed repairs at a much lower price than the Toyota dealership offered. I will definitely come back here again for as long as I live nearby. Thank you Heidi and the Automotive Instincts team! I highly recommend that you give them a call, you won't regret it. read more

Integrity: Actions Speak Louder than Words . . . How do you choose an auto shop to work on your car? If you are an engineer or an already mechanically minded person, this is fairly easy because you can use your training and experience to pick the right place. But what if you are like me and have trouble screwing in a lightbulb? Then the choice becomes exponentially harder as you have no idea whether a shop is honest and/or does good work. At some point, you simply have to make the decision to trust the people at the shop. So how do you make that decision? First, if you are reading this, then you are like me and you check out Yelp - hence the reason why I am leaving this review. Second, I have learned that "actions speak louder than words" when you are evaluating the integrity of people. Here are some of the "actions" by the owners and staff of Automotive Instincts and you be the judge. * My uncle suffered from a sudden illness and could not get his car. When our family found out about the car, it had been sitting at Automotive Instincts for over 3-4 weeks. When we retrieved the car, they were truly concerned about my uncle and did not charge us anything for leaving the car there for so long. * The car needed a total engine replacement and my 82-year-old uncle did not have much money. Automotive Instincts does not do that kind of work. But, Heidi at Automotive Instincts spent days finding the absolutely cheapest place to do the work for us. * Unfortunately, my uncle passed away during this process. Once the engine was done, we discovered there was a transmission issue. In a strange way, I was kind of protective of the car as it was linked to my uncle. I wanted to at least get it running again - even if we ultimately could not keep it. I was about to spend 3k on a transmission, when Heidi cautioned me that if I were her family, she would tell me not to spend that kind of money on that old of a car if I did not plan to keep it. How many auto shops do you know that would do that???? I came to my senses and declined the work. And out of sympathy for my uncle, and just pure niceness, Automotive Instincts did not charge me anything for the multiple days they spent diagnosing the car. Actions speak louder than words. And these are just some of the "actions" the team at Automotive Instincts took on my family's behalf. They are truly people of the highest quality and integrity. I cannot recommend this shop enough. I would give them 10 stars if I could. read more

Honesty - transparency - quality workmanship - excellent communication - fair prices - trust. This is what you will find at Automotive Instincts Northridge shop. Heidi is my go to re: all my Asian cars. Even so far as to tell me when it is time to stop putting money into a car. If there were a 10-Star rating they would get it from me. Safe travels. read more

I won't take my car anywhere else! They are always honest, reliable and reasonably priced. We recently needed our car's AC fixed (it stopped working in the middle of the summer heat wave). They not only squeezed us in last minute when they were super busy but were also able to fix it the same day. Every time I've taken in my car for a regular service and oil change it's been a great experience. So glad I found them .. I highly recommend you give them a try next time your car needs any type of service! read more

Top notch service from beginning to end. I was referred by a friend who has been coming here for over twenty years. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted by Heidi the service writer who was spot on. She definitely knows her stuff and was very courteous. For the mechanical shop, I cannot praise them enough for their expertise. They are very reasonably priced and turned out my job in a timely manner. Steve explained the issues with my car and I was very happy with the outcome. I will definitely be back. read more

You were happy to work on my 04 Acura TSX ,but when I tried to bring you my 02 Acura RSX it was too old and your tech told me to take it somewhere else. I begged your tech to look at my car, but he said it was too old he didn't have the computers or techs to work on my car. read more

great job on servicing our vehicles with great customer service we highly recommend this place read more

We have been going here for years and, in addition to superior work on our cars, they are the most honest car repair shop we have ever used. Consistently, they discourage us from doing unnecessary work and even have suggested less expensive ways (to their own financial detriment) to fix a problem. I could not recommend them more highly. read more

SUCH an incredible job - the communication, care, & knowledge we're top notch. I feel so lucky to have stumbled upon these beautiful people! I'd gone to 3 different auto mechanics over the past several years who never fixed a problem, and it finally was fixed at Automotive Instincts! Thank you so much! New loyalist gained. read more