i came to Carmicahel Auto based on a recommendation. My car had developed symptoms for head gasket problems, and i needed it fixed. If you're not familiar with car repairs, head gasket work typically will be quoted at a base price of $2,000 (minimum), and thats before they actually know how bad the problem is. the place that did my original diagnostic (not Carmichael auto) gave $2k as their base estimate, and several other shops quotes ranged between $2000-$3000.
the diagnostic shop gave me a bad feeling; they wanted to charge $96 for the cost of my 4 spark plugs. the best spark plugs for my car are $30 for all 4, if i were to order from a higher price auto parts store ($80 could get me platinum or similar plugs, but those have been tested by others to have essentially no benefit for my particular make and model). several other prices listed drove me to see another shop.
when i called Carmichael Auto, i spoke to Tony, and told him my diagnostic. I was told that the best case scenario price would be about $1400, and worst case would about $2000.
when i had my car towed there, i failed to officially set up an appointment, but Tony made sure they could store my car that night (to ensure no one could steal/vandalize), and begin the inspection the next day. Tony has exceptional customer service, and did not try sell anything unnecessary or try to scare me into spending more money. I shook his hand and left.
the next day, during the inspection, Tony called and asked if i wanted to replace the timing belt (timing belt and water pump are typically done at the same time, since it requires taking apart the engine). i told him the original owner (i recently bought the car) said he replaced it at 90k, and my car was currently at 130k.
what happened next is mind blowing for anyone thats ever dealt with auto shops.
he told me that it was probably unnecessary to replace it, and informed me the machine shop was now doing their inspection. the next day, i called back and told him to go ahead and replace it (just to be safe, really, why not).
my car was done yesterday, and i picked it up today. The final costs for parts and labor (including timing belt and water pump) was under $1500. And the warranty on the labor is icing on the cake. I took my car for a 1.5 hour drive on busy streets and the freeway, and everything was perfect.
Carmichael Auto is by far has the most outstanding customer service and repair work I have ever experienced. My experience with them had guaranteed me as a customer, as long as I live in the Sacramento area. If you are searching for an honest/ethical, hardworking, knowledgeable auto shop, then Carmichael Auto is the best answer in Sacramento. You could be a stereotypical car-ignorant girl, or Clint Eastwood type of guy, Carmichael auto will provide you with the best service possible.
Tony and Thai are the type of people to give who should only need to shake your hand as a guarantee. Best of luck to these guys., and my sincere thanks (especially as a working college student)
*As a side note, ladies of Sacramento should ask for any remaining copies of Tony's modeling pic (luckily my gf did not see them). read more