I brought my car here after the temperature gauge started running higher than normal during my commute. I initially thought it might just be an aging coolant issue, but I didn't want to keep driving it and risk turning a cooling-system problem into an engine problem. Their technicians inspected the heating and coolant system rather than simply topping off the reservoir and sending me home. They found that the coolant level was low and traced the issue to a leak that needed attention. They also checked the hoses and other components of the cooling system and explained what they found before doing the repair. I appreciated that because I wanted to understand why the temperature had been fluctuating instead of just being handed a repair bill. While they had the vehicle, they also checked the heater operation because I'd noticed that the cabin heat wasn't getting as warm as it normally did. The technician explained how the coolant system affects both engine temperature and the vehicle's heating system, which helped everything make much more sense. After the repair and coolant service, the temperature gauge stayed exactly where it should during both stop-and-go D.C. traffic and longer drives. The heater also returned to normal operation. I love that they didn't immediately recommend replacing expensive parts. They inspected the system, identified the actual problem, explained the repair, and then verified that everything was operating properly afterward. That's exactly the kind of approach I want from an auto repair shop. Plus, everyone was professional throughout the visit, and the technicians clearly knew what they were doing - very reassuring! read more

I'm really glad I decided to bring my car to Capitol Hill AUot Service. My check engine light came on, and the engine started sputtering right when I was commuting past Independence Ave. I honestly don't know much about cars and was sweating over how much a major engine repair might end up costing me. Form the moment I talked to Chris and the staff, though, I felt completely at ease. They diagnosed a bad ignition coil, gave me a staightforward estimate, and didn't pressure me into adding any unnecessary fixes. They knocked out the repair the very same day, and my car has been running perfectly since. It's tough finding a trustworthy mechanic in DC, but these guys are the real deal. read more

We're sure there are plenty of other good repair shops, but only a few that I would call great - and only one that's top of our list. We're also sure there are other customers that have had whatever situational friction worth considering. That said, I doubt the issue lies with Cap Hill Auto. Mr. Charucksiri - Chris - has now over the past couple of years unfailingly rendered repairs and maintenance efforts of the highest quality on-time and within (sometimes under) budget. It's to the point where I texted my partner that he managed to erase history. Your opinion - and mileage - will vary, I hope. I ask you at least to have a look for yourself at the before and after attached here. If you value quality highest, I think you've found the place to go. "Man, money ain't got no owners, only spenders." - Omar Little, 'The Wire' Just note - Chris is easier to get in touch with by email. read more

I've been using Capitol Hill Auto Service for regular maintenance on my Honda Accord for over a year now, including oil changes, brake service, and transmission fluid flushes. Their team is always transparent about what actually needs attention and never pressures me into unnecessary repairs. During my last visit, they noticed my brake pads were wearing unevenly and fixed the issue before it caused rotor damage. The pricing has always been fair, and the work is consistently reliable. I can absolutely see why they've built such a strong reputation locally. read more

Honest estimates, great service. Very efficient and always professional. This place is a gem.

I would not recommend Capitol Hill Auto. They performed a front brake job for me and after only 366 miles, that brake job failed and my car became unsafe to drive on the highway, with violent jolting, extreme heat from the front wheel area, and a burning smell. I had to take it to the nearest open repair shop and pay again for front brake repairs to make the car drivable again. I later learned Capitol Hill Auto had used aftermarket parts without telling me or identifying that on the invoice. I asked them to reimburse the front brake portion of the original repair, and after one defensive response, they stopped replying. I would not trust them with repairs again. Update: Capitol Hill Auto ultimately reimbursed me for the front brake portion of the original repair after multiple follow-ups and filing an official consumer complaint. I appreciate that they eventually did so. Given the circumstances and the amount of effort required to get a resolution, I still would not return. read more

Someone sideswiped my parked Lexus and damaged the mirror and part of the front panel. I took the car to Capitol Hill Auto Service because I heard they also handle minor body work, and they did an incredible job. They ordered the replacement parts quickly, coordinated everything with me clearly, and had the repairs completed within just a few days. The paint match looked perfect, and you honestly can't even tell the car was damaged. Between the body repair, electrical work, and overall customer service, I couldn't be happier with the experience. read more

Overpriced ! Gave me a completely high outrageous quote....literally called one other shop and they beat their price by more than $500! Sad part is I almost got my car towed there. I don't appreciate the high quote. I had several things to repair. Meanwhile he just wasted to get rich of one replacement job! Dont go here !! They overpriced and suck ! read more

This garage is a total shambles. Frankly, it deserves less than one star. Chris, the owner, is typically tucked away in the office frantically typing out orders and uses a hopelessly outdated clipboard system to log clients in and out. He typically does not acknowledge or talk to you when you approach the office window until you have to yell at him to get a response. There is no front-of-store staff here, it is a hole-in-the-wall shop. Do not try calling Chris, because he never answers the phone. The only way to communicate with him is via email. Do not expect to get an estimate from these guys either, because either Chris or Ryan, the rude 2iC in the back fumbling over piles of work orders in his sh*thole of a workspace, will just tell you "We will look at it this week" I took my car taken my car there on several occasions to get repairs done, and on just about every occasion the issue was never properly fixed. On one occasion I took my vehicle there to get the cooling system fixed. After about a week, they emailed me to say it was ready for pickup. I drove out of the garage until about 3 miles down the road the car quickly started to overheat. Coolant poured out from underneath the car. I waited 3 hrs for a tow truck to take my car back to their garage. Turns out that the coolant hoses had not been replaced or fixed at all. I waited another day before they finally fixed the issue and did a pressure test, which is what they should have done from the beginning. On another occasion, I took my vehicle there to get an oil change. I did not hear back from them for 3 days until I emailed Chris and asked what the status of my car was. They had not even got to doing my oil change. My car sat on a side street for 4 days until they finally did the oil change. Also, when I walked to pick up my car they had parked my car where my wheels had been badly scratched up against the curb. The key problem with this garage is that they take on too many clients, try to push out too many cars, and charge a premium for shoddy, incompetent work and abysmal quality control. This garage is a joke, and a disaster. Avoid. read more

Very disappointed with Chris's service and customer service. He did not disclose that they did not have the software or other to reset the oil due notice in my Audi A5. And on top of that charged me almost what the Audi dealer had quoted. And, lastly I compared to other service provided to an A4, and yet I was charged more than 50% more. In my mind the service was incomplete and not commensurate with the charge. Bad karma. I will never return or recommend the service. read more

I had low oil pressure. Just needed an oil change. They were very quick. Very professional. I would use them again. read more

This family owned business is Terrific! Honest, reasonable snd very friendly and hrlpful! read more

Capitol Hill Auto Service has been my go-to mechanic for routine maintenance and unexpected repairs. They diagnosed my check engine light quickly and explained the issue in plain terms--no pressure to upsell unnecessary services. The work was done on time and at the quoted price, which feels rare these days. read more

My check engine light was on and I brought my car in to be checked. They said the problem was corrected . Again, the light came on so I took it back. Spent more money and again the light came on. I spent thousands and took my car 3 times. The third time, I took my car without any service being done out of frustration. On the way home my car cut off 5 times while driving. Including on 295! I would not recommend this place for big repairs. I spend a lot of money only to have my car towed to another shop. They could improve by refunding when they don't fix the issue. read more

Every now and then, you come across a business that makes you wonder if the owner should still be doing what they're doing. Unfortunately, Capitol Hill Auto Service is one of those places. I rarely leave negative reviews, but I felt compelled after my experience with Chris, the owner. The way he speaks to customers is truly appalling--rude, condescending, and devoid of even basic courtesies. No "hello," no "how can I help you"--just immediate hostility because I had parked briefly in the driveway while trying to figure out what to do as I had an appointment, but the signage is confusing and doesn't explain the process for drop-off when you do have an appointment. I brushed it off at first, thinking maybe he was having a bad day. But when I returned to pick up my car, nothing had changed. In fact, a complete stranger at the shop approached me afterward on the street after I left to say she couldn't believe how he spoke to me and that she had witnessed similar behavior before. That is when I realized I really need to write a review. When I came to pick up the car, I was met with a sigh and told, "We have a lot of [car brand]--which one?" I tried to clarify with the color or plate number, but Chris didn't respond. He just disappeared into the back and came back moments later with my file--clearly, it wasn't that difficult. To the life of me, I could not understand why he was talking to a customer who just paid hundreds of dollars at his shop the way he did! To make things worse, when they were done my car wasn't even at the location. I was vaguely told it was parked "a block away in that direction" with no specific address, the interaction was so rude and dismissive. No address was given but I wandered around until I finally found it. IT was 2 blocks away not one block like I was told. I thought about going back to ask where exactly was my car, but the interaction made me just keep looking as I did not want to return to that place and be talked to the way he talked to me. There were no pleasantries, no "thank you," not even a bare-minimum acknowledgment. It honestly felt like I had inconvenienced him by showing up. I don't say this lightly, but Chris seems burnt out and unhappy--and it shows in every interaction. I am sorry that he feels this way, but It might be time for someone to kindly suggest a different path. Being in a customer-facing role requires a minimum level of human decency, and that was sorely missing here. I'm still stunned by the number of glowing reviews, but maybe others who have been treated this way felt too uncomfortable to speak up. I hope this review helps someone else avoid the same experience. Again, I am not a Karen, I have never written a bad review of any business I simply don't go again if I don't like the service, but this is an exception as I would rather drive many miles further to find a business that is actually appreciates their customers and do not talk to them the way this owner does. read more

First time using them. Reasonable pricing with good communication. Explained my issue and we worked a solution to my problem. Will use them for my wife's car read more

Took vehicle to the location twice. Once because the auto start-stop wouldn't start. Had it for a week and the issue had not been resolved. The manager told me to drive it around for a while and then call back in a week if it didn't start to work. Didn't start, back to the shop and told the back up battery for the mechanism was dead and a new charge. I let this one go cause sometimes mistakes are made. Took vehicle back for a starter going bad, had vehicle for a week, picked the car up. Starter still working intermittently...and that became the last chance. read more

New to Va. Had to get my car inspected for registration. My daughter, who has been using them for repairs etc for years, recommended them. A small, friendly shop had me in and out in a timely frame. I will be using them for services in the future. read more

I found my new mechanic. I have been using a guy in Alexandria. But needed somewhere closer and more convenient. CHAS (Capitol Hill Auto Service) is your local mechanic. The shop it tucked away in a neighborhood. I used yelps "get a quote" system. The owner got back to me via chat almost immediately. He was extremely responsive. And communicated promptly and effectively. He was bluntly honest and cautioned on certain repairs due to the cost. Which I really appreciate He did not just say it's gotta be repaired and took my money. His shop was quick in turn around doing a diagnostic on my car. Again, communication was key and quick. Ultimately, my car is not worth working on. The cost of repair outweighs the current value of the car. But I got Peace of mind, knowing that, my best option is to sell my car. When picking up my car, Chris took some time talking about my situation and his experience with type of vehicle. I really appreciated it. Overall great experience. Parking is tricky since there is a small lot out front. Street parking is key, but keep in mind it's zone 6 parking. So if you have a friend in zone 6. Ask for a pass. My quote for diagnosis was a tad bit higher than expected. But, I plan on coming back to him with my other car. I highly recommend this place. read more

I don't like to leave reviews but I just couldn't get away from it this time. The guys there are friendly enough, but within a year I've had to redo all of their work. I left it with them multiple times and they ended up installing rotors that had to be immediately replaced, a muffler that was too short and just about fell off, and a hit or miss oil change where the car was even telling me the oil hadn't been changed. This was $2,500+ in repairs over a year that I had to have COMPLETELY redone by a different shop. I even went under the car with the second shop and saw it with my own eyes. For context, this is what the muffler ended up looking like. Take your car somewhere else. It's just not worth it here. read more

Capitol Hill Auto Service - Auto Repair Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Asked them to check my breaks, they told me that my breakpads had 5-10% life in them. I checked later to replace them and found that my breakpads had about 2/3rds life in them. I was ripped off. read more

FYI -- they have a 4% surcharge on credit card payments, so you'll get charged that if you don't pay with venmo. (Is this legal?) And, of course, they don't have it written anywhere on the website and don't tell you so there's no way of knowing. They've had my car for over a week and I only needed an oil change. They sent me a laundry list of "issues" with my car that would run me over $2000, even though I got a complete inspection and service less than two months prior. Also, the check-in process is confusing and weird. The front desk guy doesn't even look up while you're standing there. I thought I was the only one experiencing this but by the looks of other reviews, seems to be the norm. Overall, I feel like I'm being taken advantage of a bit because I'm a young woman. Nothing new with mechanics thinking they can overcharge young women, but disappointed that it's coming from a local establishment with good reviews. read more

The workers are friendly here, but unfortunately they couldn't solve the problem with my car even after having it for a full day.

I have been coming to this business since I had my old 2002 Lincoln LS. On that Lincoln, they repaired my front/rear suspension. Unfortunately I had to change cars after this business gave it life for about another 2-4 more years (that suspension still works like it's brand new, but it started having electrical issues and shuts down while driving). Now, with my RAV4, Capitol Hill Auto fixed my tire back in August of 2022, and I'm forever grateful for their continued services. I highly recommend this business! read more

I went in a skeptic (reasonably so considering the stigma around mechanics) and left an ambassador. I had such a great experience with Chris and the team at Capitol Hill Auto Service Center. Here's why: 1) Service: My Toyota Camry broke down randomly during a week where I needed it the most. Despite the holiday rush, Chris committed to fixing it (lifesaver!). He was great at communication, setting expectations, and treated my car like his own. Chris and his team are more than trustworthy! 2) Price: In the end, I had to get our car battery replaced. Googling how much that would cost, I found it would likely be a $350-$375 bill. To my surprise, the bill was just over $200 and Chris included checking my car for free! 3) Location: It's in a historic auto body shop on Capitol Hill just a few blocks from the Eastern Market Metro on the Orange/Blue/Silver line, making it convenient to take public transit after dropping off your car. In case you need to treat yourself after the stress of car problems, there are several good coffee shops nearby (Peregrine, Little Pearl, Bourbon, etc). When I reached out to my DC network for auto body recommendations, every single one pointed me to Chris and his team. A 4.5 Yelp star rating confirmed my visit. I'll never go to another mechanic in Washington, D.C.! read more

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Quick service at a fair price. Their shop is conveniently located close to a metro for easy access. I reached out via yelp and was able to maintain constant communication with the owner, Chris, during the service. read more

Honestly one of my worst experiences at an auto repair. First of all, the man at the front desk is extremely rude - ignores you when you talk to him and doesn't acknowledge you until much later whenever he's done with whatever he's doing. Like not even a word. Secondly, I asked for a cost estimate which they said they couldn't give me, which is fine - but they failed to mention they were charging nearly 100 for an evaluation even though I specifically asked what the cost would be. Worst of all, I agreed to come pick my car up at a certain time and when I got there the place was locked up! I emailed, called, no response. So I had to come back to get it in the morning and I got a ticket because it was left there overnight. No apology, no discount nothing. Avoid this place!!! Completely unprofessional. read more

Great service, value and accommodation. The whole experience is great. Plus, Chris at Capitol Hill Auto Service is trustworthy; they're the best! read more

This place got great reviews on Yelp. Unfortunately, after two emails and a posting in the "Community" section of Yelp, no answer. So hard to rate on the actual service, but responsiveness leaves something to be desired. read more

New to the area was looking to get established at an honest reliable independent shop like the one we had in San Diego (B&B Autohuas is top notch). Parking is limited (street only) but the service was on point, pricing was comparable, and they fix everything I listed on the order form. read more

Admittedly, we lived in Capitol Hill (two and a half blocks from the shop) for four years and now live just another 3/4 mile up the road in Kingman Park, so part of the appeal for us may be convenience. With that said, Capitol Hill Auto is the best mechanic I've experienced. They are really good at diagnosing the problem, explaining things clearly, and being direct with you up front on things cost-related. And if there is still a problem after the repair, they will make sure they get it done right. We've been taking our 2007 Toyota Yaris there for six years (they've kept it running to it's current 296K miles) and now we take our 2014 Subaru Crosstrek there. For the folks who complain that the owner is rude, I disagree. He's definitely direct. And he multi-tasks a lot. And he doesn't often have time for pleasantries. I've admittedly stood there for two to three minutes before until he can acknowledge me, but I'm not really tripping off that (the guy is running a successful business without admin support). Plus, everyone is "DC rude" in this city, so that vibe is just the norm. So, if you want southern hospitality (which I appreciate as a native Texan), this might not be the place for you. But, if you are looking for a great, local shop that is super accommodating, definitely bring your car to Capitol Hill Auto Service. read more

Yes yes yes yes! Don't fret by the long lines in the am or the location! I drive all the way from Waldorf MD to stop by. Once you find a good mechanic/ auto shop you can't go anywhere else. That is true for this spot. Make an apportionment through email or ask questions via email. Chris will respond v quickly! He's honest and upfront about pricing so you're not blindsided. He hasn't tried to sell me something that I don't need (this is what got me to come back, all the way from Waldorf) PS. Forgive them for their short attitude, they're nice people. Just wait patiently for them to get to you. He's answering everyone's emails!! This review is no CAP read more

Chris was great. Immediately felt a trust with him and they got the work done well, quickly and on time. Amazing for a local neighborhood place. Thanks! read more

Expensive for repairs and charge a fortune for a diagnostic. I usually don't write reviews but I wanted to share my experience so others don't fall victim to the same thing. Dropped my car with Chris and the gang on a Thursday - on Friday, they sent me a quote for $2,800 worth of repairs. I got a competing quote from another local dealer for the exact same repairs for $1000 less. The quote was the following. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON - $127.20 HORN DOES NOT SOUND WHEN ACTIVATING ALARM - $63.60 BATTERY - $264.95 REAR SUSPENSION - $744.06 VACUUM PUMP - $1,344.82 HOOD LATCH - $233.61 Total - $2778.24 + shop fees Another shop 10 minutes away provided the following: CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON - Free Diagnostic HORN DOES NOT SOUND WHEN ACTIVATING ALARM - Free Diagnostic BATTERY - $201 REAR SUSPENSION - $390 VACUUM PUMP - $1140 HOOD LATCH - $119.64 Total - $1850.64 + shop fees Despite never agreeing to it in advance, Chris made me pay the $200 diagnostic to pick my car back up. And they left the lights on when they took it so I had to get a jump to even get my car. If you live on Capitol Hill and need immediate service, maybe they are worth the premium. If you are looking for folks who provide good value, look elsewhere. read more

This place is the best. As a woman, I find it frustrating calling around for auto quotes because often times I'm spoken down to, or they try to up-sell me on repairs or items I don't need. I have NEVER felt this way with Chris or anyone at Capitol Hill Auto Service. Chris is extremely responsive, direct, and explains everything clearly. I've gone to this shop multiple times over the last few years, and will continue to do so! As much as having to get your car repaired can be a pain, I never feel dread having to go to Capitol Hill Auto Service because I know my car is in good hands. read more

I had an issue where my car had water in the doors and I took it here to get fixed. The technicians were friendly enough and explained to me that the issue was caused by leaves getting into the drainage somethings and causing a blockage (as you can tell my knowledge of car parts is a bit lacking, to say the least). They fixed the car and I got an oil change at the same time for a relatively reasonable price. My favorite part was that they gave me some advice for how to prevent the issue from happening in the future. Communication could be a bit better. I had to call to inquire about the status of my car rather than being contacted to know that the work was done, but all in all I feel like this was an honest shop with reasonable pricing. read more

Capitol Hill Auto Service is wonderful. They fixed my car after it was in a collision and it looks brand new after their excellent servicing. They provide an estimate via email ahead of services. Chris worked with my insurance offline to update their estimate and ensure my needed repairs were fully covered by insurance. They are incredible responsive via email and making an appointment via email is the way to go. I could not be more grateful. I've come here twice and their quality and convenient location are worth it. read more

They did a great job, vehicle feels like its new again. I was worried about the street parking but it did work out . I will return for sure. They did regular maintenance as well as Ignition coils, tires rotated, oil change etc. , I m very happy with the service. Its convenient to workers like me that work on Capitol Hill . I turned the car in and walk to work then the next day I walk to go get it. I will return for sure. Thanks again From a Library of Congress employee.. read more

The car looks as good as new! Chris was very easy to work with and responsive over email. He worked with us so we could pick up the car after hours which was a huge help. Definitely recommend! read more

I tell everyone to go here! The owner Chris is awesome. They don't do calls but in my opinion email is better. Chris responds quickly and I love how detailed their receipts are. You can use a checkbox to approve or decline items. He includes details on each issue, price breakdown with parts vs labor etc. So there will never be any confusion as to what was done to your car. He also saved my Cadillac that I let sit for three years. read more