Brought my car in for a new A/C compressor. I usually take my vehicle(s) to Ernie Lee in NE Raleigh, but he and his staff were super backed up and I was waiting weeks for an opening. EL and his guys always do a great job, so I wasn't thrilled to have to get out of my comfort zone and find a new place. But with the summer heat in North Carolina, about the last thing you want not working in your vehicle is the air conditioning. I read the glowing reviews of Choice Auto Care on Yelp, and elsewhere, and decided to give them a shot. I am glad I did. Don was quick to get me in, and then out, and the job was done right - and VERY timely. He reminded me of my long-time mechanic from when I lived in South Florida. In fact, the two could almost be twins. It's a little further in distance than I usually go - in fact, I can walk to my 'regular' guy - but I highly suggest Don and the staff at CAC. It is never enjoyable having to get certain repairs done, but if you are going to spend hundreds of dollars for a fix, it's nice to know places exist that will do the job right, and not screw you over trying to upsell and still give great customer service. If you're in the North Raleigh area, definitely give them a call! read more

I was from out of town and needed a quick repair, these people are very knowledgeable and honest folks not just after just your dollar.

Saw the reviews online and decided to give them a shot. They took great care of me. I'll certainly be back. These are good people.

I just moved to the area honestly looked at the yelp reviews and came in because my car had a funky tire smell.I was greeted by a friendly guy at the front desk immediately input my car into system and gave me an estimate 1 hour to look at my car . I got a call and he told me they test drove and took a look and could not find anything wrong . I appreciated the honesty and will be using them for my oil changes and my husbands 2 cars other cars . read more

Excellent, friendly service. Honest answers and advice on repairs needed. Not trying to sell you extras. Good pricing and rates. Quick service too. I got an annual inspection in ~30min. 100% will go back read more

I had a pleasant experience with NC inspection. Service was quick and I will return.

Just had my car serviced and will definitely be coming back for all my auto repair needs! Very friendly staff and knowledgeable.

The nicest folks! They've repaired my daughters AC and did my annual inspection. They answer phone and get you in right away. They do quality work!! Highly recommend. read more

When no one else could get me in, they did. If you just need some basic work done to your vehicle this is a great place to go. Don't expect champagne and caviar in the waiting room, but they will get the job done. read more

Been going to Don's place since I was a teenager!! They are hands down the absolute BEST. Their main mechanic, Amado, is literally the sweetest. He always explains to me what's going on, what has priority, etc... Their integrity, generosity, and knowledge blows me away every time! Definitely worth every penny. read more

You know when you have an older car then move to a different state..that panic feeling you get wondering if you'll ever find an honest and trustworthy mechanic? I no longer have that wrench in my gut. I found Fred, Don and their crew of genius mechanics! I thought my poor old boo would get a terminal diagnosis. I knew I was desperate for breaks so I started there. I was right, I needed breaks...and calipers and my rotors turned. What I didn't know is that my motor mounts were also broken. It was a knick of time moment that I decided to bite the bullet. Fred and mostly Don were so fantastic. They didn't judge or tease..they were up front and totally honest. My lil old dude has a new lease on life...and I have new mechanics. Don't hesitate to reach out to them. Drive on in for trustworthy mechanics. read more

These people are fantastic. If you don't know a ton about cars, you often walk out of an auto mechanic's feeling like you've been hoodwinked - things are way to expensive, people are cagey about what they tell you, something smells off. For that reason, it's always good to have a family member who knows better to check things with, and to come in having done your research and being clear about what you know, and acting confidently so you won't be taken advantage. I don't have to worry about that here. These people are very honest and very affordable. I keep coming back to them because of it, always with the same result. Most recently, I had an engine light on, which after checking the code seemed to be an issue with the gas tank pressure. I tried replacing the gas cap, which often fixes the issue, but no dice. Talked to my dad and did some more research, and we concluded to fully diagnose the issue would probably require a smoke or vacuum test of the whole evap system, so I took into the local Honda dealership (I won't name names) to have them diagnose. They said the issue was that the wire going to the fuel tank pressure sensor was broken, and they needed to rewire it and reset the code - but they wanted to charge me hundreds of dollars for it, and sell me a bunch of other crap too ("your air filter is dirty" - yeah, right, never heard that one before). So I took it here. They were dubious about the diagnosis, but took a look at it and concluded it was correct. Then they told me Honda makes it hard to repair without completely replacing the sensor for a ton of money - BUT, they could fix it in quick-and-dirty way themselves for $45, or direct me to a shop that specializes in car electrical work who can do a much better job with proper tools for about the same price. They charged me nothing for diagnosis, since it was what I said it was from getting diag elsewhere, and advised me to go elsewhere to get it done better than they could - and charged me nothing. They tell you what's right for you, not for them. For that I will keep coming back, and anytime I *do* need to spend money on repairs, I'll spend it here. read more

I know that, unfortunately, I need to share Choice Auto with other car owners - I wish I could keep them all to myself. Whenever one of my (past ot present) cars have need to get a super good fix, these guys are the ones I call. Not only have they taken the time to get to know my car(s), they have always taken the time to explain the details of a repair, and not pressured me in to an uneeded "fix". When it could have cost me a fortune on major repairs, they were honest enough to recommend that I just get rid of the car. Thanks Guys!!! read more

Great people who value honesty and carry a smile on their faces. I recently took my Audi to Jiffy Lube to get an oil changed where they said they were unable to do so due to my drain plug being stripped. Called Fred at Auto Care and told me to come in the next day. Not only did they order me a new drain plug on the spot- it was delivered in 10 minutes and they did the oil change right away. I've recently moved to the Raleigh area and so glad I found these guys! I will certainly be back!! read more

Don and the team at Choice Auto Care are awesome! I had my 1995 Vandura towed there because it wasn't starting, and they had it fixed in no time. They were super fast and communicative and were happy to answer my questions. Highly recommend! read more

I first took my car to Don in 2013 when I first moved to the area. I know nothing about cars and Don has always talked me out of things other mechanics have suggested or recommended, he will also let you know when he can't do a repair and has a recommendation for someone who can. He's honest and an overall great guy, and I recommend him to all my friends, who also have great things to say about him. I'd never take my car anywhere else. read more

They have worked on both my wife's and my cars several times and are very honest. They do not look to overcharge you or pressure to get other services that you do not want. read more

Sorry, this is a long review but I felt it needed the details. Read along if you care. I dropped my 2001 Xterra with Choice after, while on a local/short trip, it started misfiring, running rough. I did this for about 5 miles. After shutting it off and starting again it ran fine but, obviously, something is wrong and I wanted it looked at. I've also had an ongoing pretty bad vibration at hwy speeds. I've replace both driveshafts, replaced the wheels, tires (and re-balanced numerous times), changes the engine and transmission mounts, have new shocks, new sway bar, taken it to 5+ specialists and no-one can solve this vibration. When I dropped the truck I explained this all to Fred. While my priority is the engine mis-firing I explained the vibration issue and all I've done (above) and asked if he could take a look at it and see if he could find anything. After a few days he called to tel me that the tires being out of balance must be causing the vibration. I repeated how, based on all I've done, I find that nearly impossible. Fred put me on the phone with the tech and re-explained all I've done and why it can't be the tires simply out of balance and he said he'd take a closer look. Another day later Fred call to tell me that 'I'm ready to go, my truck is done' as if, if I didn't ask, everything was fixed. Of course, I ask if they found anything about the mis-firing. Fred tells me no, they found nothing. When asked about the vibration issue he tells me 'it's very minor'. Note that the vibration at 65+mph is anything but minor. The whole truck is shaking and it can't be said, with a straight face, that it's minor. Fred then tells me they changed 2 radiator hose clamps. This also made no sense since the radiator is about 2 years old. Ok, so I go to pickup my truck and the only reason I'm giving them 2-stars is because they said 'no charge'. Ok...thanks, but then, I get in the truck and drive away and notice my left butt is feeling a bit wet. The left side of the drivers seat was clearly wet and when I looked, the door handle/pull had about 1/2" of water still in it. Clearly they left the drivers window down during the rain we had in the last few days. Ugh. And, of course, as I got in the freeway and got up to speed, the truck starts vibrating badly (ie: not minor). If I could attach a video here to show the vibration, I would. It's not minor. Note that I don't hold it against Fred/Choice for not finding anything about the vibration since, as I wrote, he's not the first to try and find nothing. But at least don't try and tell me it's 'minor'. So much for all of the 'honesty' I read about. To me, from my experience, they're no different than any other bad mechanic. Note that I would have had no trouble if Fred called me up and said "We can't find anything wrong with the engine or the vibration, sorry. And, oh, sorry, but we left the drivers window down during the rain so the drivers seat is still a bit wet and if you have any issues with the window switches in the near future we'll fix it" but....nothing. And the fact they weren't charging me also leads me to believe that they know they did something wrong and this was their way to make up for it. Maybe I'm reading into it but this is my perspective. So, while I drive 25mi from home to go there based on the reviews here on yelp, I cannot recommend them. read more

I called in advance to ask how much an oil change was and was quoted ~$41. I took my car in with no appointment and they worked on my car quickly. When they were done, my total was a little over $100 and I was told my car uses synthetic oil, which I was unaware of. I was surprised and not expecting to pay that amount since I called earlier for pricing. They were extremely forgiving and accommodating and stuck to the price they originally quoted me for. Now I know my car takes synthetic, so something I should be prepared for the next time I need an oil change. Truly appreciate their business and the principle and highly recommend to get your car serviced here. This is the only shop I've ever felt like they cared about their customers and weren't pushing you to get other things done or ripping you off. Thank you so much!! read more

I have a 2001 Mustang GT with an electrical problem. Choice was the only shop that could find it and fix it...after taking it to 2 different Ford Dealers. I love my car, and though it is old...it has taken me all over the east coast without a problem. Choice is thorough, reliable, efficient. And with quick turn around time. Fantastic mechanics and great customer service! read more

I only called to get an estimate for a catalytic converter and whom ever answered the phone was very rude once I explained I already had the part. I understand some shops will not accept parts bought privately, but it was the way the guy said it. Told me I would hard pressed to find other shops that would work with me and when I told him I already found 3 shops that would, he dismissed me. Uncalled for rudeness for a 1st impression. read more

Have saved so much time and money by having my car serviced at Choice since I moved to the Raleigh area three years ago. The best thing about them is their complete honesty. Case in point, when I had to take my Outback in to the dealership for an airbag recall a few months ago, they told me that my steering rack was leaking and it would cost $3200 to fix. I had Choice take a look for a second opinion and they found no such issue. The car has run perfectly for 15000 miles since then with routine affordable service by them . Don and Fred are extremely friendly and more than happy to help you with any questions you have. If you are looking for a mechanic or are debating making the switch from dealership service; this is the place to go. read more

The staff here are really friendly. I went in for a Brahe service already aware that I needed rear brakes. The mechanic still did a brake inspection just in case I had something else going on. The parts arrived in a reasonable amount of time and I was out of there about 45 later. They have free wifi - you just have to ask for the password. They are about getting it right not getting all your $. Glad I saw the other reviews about this place. read more

I have to agree with the others here.... I have found Choice to be a great place to bring your car! Honest, reliable, helpful, reasonably priced, etc. As a female I have found they don't try to add on unnecessary work or try to BS you as some places do. Quite the contrary, as some others have relayed, I've had several instances where they have given an honest opinion re something being minor or not an issue, or something less expensive than identified elsewhere. I was reminded of that today after speaking to Fred regarding an error code my car was throwing (and it had stalled out yesterday) ....that it was probably just air in the gas (Yes I stopped at a cheap station the day before). That if code came back or it didn't run properly certainly they'd take a look but he did say that was likely the issue. I do so appreciate the honesty!!!! read more

The guys are awesome! All of them. Good people, good prices, no tricks, no games. They saved me by spotting horrible rotors that the dealership left on my car when I bought it. They are a perfect example of a small town style shop with their main idea being to take care of the customer for a fair, usually much better, price than anybody else in town. Tl;dr prices are great and the staff is even better! Cannot be beaten here or anywhere I know. read more

I can't say enough good things about Choice Auto Care. Fred, Don, and the team at Choice Auto Care are the best auto technicians I have worked with. Fred was genuine and transparent with me about prices and necessary work from the very start. He was patient as I asked questions and helped me navigate repairs, which I knew little to nothing about. The technicians at the shop work hard and take pride in their work. They never once tried to up-sell me and truly went above and beyond to help me, while being conservative with my money. They saved me hundreds of dollars as compared to the dealership quoted prices. If you're looking for someone you can trust to be honest with you and fix your car problems without any fuss, take your vehicle to Choice Auto Care. read more

This is the place to go for your auto repairs. Don and his crew are great and will get you in and out with the job done correctly. Ive been coming to Don for about 11 years now and have always been pleased with his work. read more

Choice Auto Care - Getting my oil change and tires rotated and fluids topped off - Auto Repair Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Would like to give a higher review but just can't. Took my older truck here to get a look over. The serpentine belt was replaced and lasted less than 30 mins worth of driving. Shredded and cut into the ac compressor. When I called and advised of the issue, the response was not apologetic and advised I would have to wait to bring it in. Supposedly gave me deal on new air compressor but it gave out after about a week to a week and a half and I could see where the cut was filled not replaced. At this point I was done pouring money into the work and frustrated with multiple trips to the shop so disclaimer - I did not recontact the shop on the ac compressor. Spent between $1k and $1500 read more

This shop had me in and out so quickly, I barely had time to get comfortable in the lobby. The mechanic met me at the garage door as I arrived with a kind smile. The man at the desk was straightforward, honest, and quick as well. I really appreciate this auto shop. They truly helped me and did not overcharge me. I believe I will be back. read more

Skilled, honest, fast, and at a fair price. This is one of those places that I can't give enough stars. Being new to this part of town, I researched and asked around for the best auto shop in the area. If you're like me, your car is how your life happens - so naturally, finding the right mechanic is in many ways just as important as finding the right doctor or lawyer. It makes all the difference in the world to have someone that you trust, who is looking out for your best interests. I've found that at Choice. Long story short, I had a national chain attempted to upsell a full brake replacement in order to pass inspection. I sought a second opinion from Choice, and they, instead, told me the truth: my brakes were fine, i did not need a replacement. I passed inspection no problem. They saved me quite a few dollars that day. And in turn, they gained a customer for life. I've taken my car in twice now, and I'm always impressed with the quality of work, the promptness in which it was completed, and the reasonable price I was given. The customer service is always top notch. I consider myself lucky that I found the place, and I give my highest recommendation. read more

This was, hands down, the best experience that I have ever had going to a mechanic shop. My dealership quoted me at over 900 dollars for new roters on my rear tires and brake pads. Don and his team changed my oil with full synthetic oil, inspected my car, AND replaced my roters, as well as my brake pads for under 300 dollars. Aside from the amazing prices, the customer service can not be beat. Everyone was extremely friendly and helpful. They brought my car in right away and informed me of everything that I needed immediately. Don even showed me what my roters looked like and explained why I needed new ones. As a young female, I often feel that my knowledge of cars is very limited. I never once felt as though I was being taken advantage or pressured into buying unnecessary parts or services. I really appreciate everything that Don and his team did to make my car safe again. And just FYI-They opened a new shop which is right across the street from the old shop. The new address is 4900 Atlantic Avenue. read more

I have been going to the owner, Don Scott, for the 8.5 years as a customer for my "fleet" of family cars. When Don opened Choice Auto Care last year in 2012, I followed him and his two mechanics, Blake and Matthew, to his new business. They ride was twice as long as it used to be but I did it because I could trust Don. Rare to find a repair shop with that distinction, but that is the way it is with Don. I find that his prices are extremely competitive (not that I even price compare) but it would not even matter if they were a bit on the high side. Because it is not just the price that matters, but it is also about the trust! Thanks Don! Jay and Barbara and all the kids (96 Miata, 93 Town and Country, 93 Toyota Camry, 2012 KIA Optima, 2013 KIA Forte) and those no longer with us as they were traded in or sold off: 2007 Toyota Highlander, 1993 Buick Roadmaster wagon 2009 Mazda 6, 2008 Toyota Sienna, 2002 VW Passet). read more

Needed to have my brakes looked at and oil changed but I was new to Raleigh so I checked Yelp for recommendations. This place lived up to all the reviews. -Great customer service, extremely friendly staff. -Called me up to let me know my brakes were fine until my next oil change. I'm sure many auto repair shops would have just told me I needed to replace them and gave me a bill. -Their price on an oil change probably cannot be beat by anyone in Raleigh. If you're getting your auto repair work done anywhere else in Raleigh, you're just doing it wrong. read more

We had been looking for a mechanic in Raleigh since we had moved, and found none that we were super happy with. However, I dropped off my vehicle at Choice Auto Care after a check engine light kicked on, and couldn't be happier with the experience. Some key points to my first visit were: -They diagnosed and repaired my vehicle in less than half a day. -Don called me promptly when the repair had been finished. -Don explained what was wrong and what they had done. -The price was exceptionally reasonable. We will be bringing back all of our vehicles to Don. Thanks again Choice Auto Care! read more

Great place! Honest, straight shooting mechanic! New to Raleigh, and so happy to have found my new mechanic! Yelp led me here, and Don got me to stay. Had my muffler replaced after it rusted off (darn NY salting), and just got back home. Don and his team are miracle workers. Quick, professional, answered all of my questions! Odd to say, but I look forward to going back for continued maintenance! read more

These guys misdiagnosed a leak on my car. Fortunately, I went somewhere else to get a second estimate and got it taken care of.

Fred and the guys at Choice Auto Care are amazing. They have now become trusted go to car guys for our family. It is hard to find good people you trust in a sea of mechanics in Raleigh. We have found our cars the best place to go finally. They always go a step above for us. I seriously advise people to give them a try! read more

Needed a new car service place since we moved and this place was great. Nice family business and my car was finished quickly. Honest and hardworking people. Look no further for car repairs read more

tl;dr -- couldn't recommend more; honest, trustworthy, timely, and knowledgeable auto care. I bought a new set of tires at Sears a few months ago. Not unexpectedly, Sears' installation also included recommendations for several fluid refills and suspension repairs totaling around $300. I suspected that they were just piling it on looking for an upsell, but I also didn't want to risk driving a compromised vehicle. This month, I brought my car to Choice, because I had read the excellent Yelp reviews and wanted to find a preferred local shop for a second opinion on the issues Sears had highlighted (and for future repairs and diagnostic work). I went in to get an oil change, state inspections, fluid check, suspension check, and investigation of a whirring noise I've been hearing while accelerating. I told Don about what Sears had said and took my care in for the appointment. First, past experience with auto inspections at other facilities and repairs taught me to expect to wait several hours for the work to be completed. Don called me back just over an hour after I'd dropped off my car to let me know it was ready for pickup. When I went to pick it up, he walked me through the inspections they did and each point I'd mentioned to him. He reassured me that my suspension and fluid levels was just fine, that my car passed all the inspection points without a hitch, and that I was good to go. I walked in expecting to pay $300, and I walked out having only paid a small fraction of that price for the oil change and inspections (their prices on these services were more than reasonable, too!). It would have been easy for a less-honorable shop to capitalize on Sears' initial recommendations, but Don earned the strong reputation Choice has as a trustworthy shop with his honest assessment. And he earned a loyal customer, as well. So, if you're looking for expert auto care, a great customer experience, honest assessments, and quick service, then look no further. read more

I will follow Don and his team to the end of the earth. I have had my share of good mechanics in the past. Those mechanics were honest and pleasant. These guys actually care. They'll listen to your problem, they will fix it and be honest about the prices. They always go the extra mile to make sure you are satisfied. I recommend Choice Auto Care to everyone in the Raleigh area. You couldn't find a nicer or more skilled place! read more