Took my car in today to have a wheel lug stud replaced that another tire shop ( I won't name them) damaged beyond repair. They were responsive and did it in no time at all. Turned out it was a little more involved, but they gave me a fair price and did a great job. He showed me the damaged part and explained it to me so could understand. Highly recommend them read more

Nice guys running the desk but past that, nope, nuh-uh, run away. Went in to get an oil change and a problem looked at. They told be about a different problem but they had forgotten to look at the problem I was concerned about. So they checked it out. Essentially, the two problems together totaled $3800. I think corporate dictates pricing, encourages upselling and pads things for the 2 year warranty. After a few stressful days of consideration, I took my car to a different mechanic. He's been in business a long time and had delivered solid work in the past. He looked all of it over- figured out what needed to be done and what didn't. $900 with a 1 year warranty. Do your due diligence!! The cherry on top was that one guy at the desk said that he was giving me the coupon price for the oil change since I mentioned I had their flyer from the mail at home. (About $30) My husband had been there for an oil change so I'm guessing that's how we received the coupons. Then the other dude rang me up at full price. Like I said, cool guys but attention to detail and ultimately pricing made it a solid choice to never step foot in there again. read more

Do not go here. My son had an oil change done here because of a cheep coupon. They told him he needed $2,000 of suspension work done. He immediately took his car to his mechanic he's been going to for years. He said your suspension is all good in fact remember you replaced many parts in June and they are all working great. His mechanic found his oil separator was leaking. This company didn't even mention that and his mechanic was shocked. read more

Great customer service & work! Took my Highlander in for an alignment and install of my new headlights! Thank you Daniel!!

It was an expensive job no matter how you looked at it. It was definitely sticker shock. I called the dealership. The dealership was a little less expensive. Or so they said over the phone. Who knows what would happen once I got there and they tore into it And then they would bullshit me and try to upsell me. So when I got the price from family auto service where my truck already was at. They did end up discounting me from the price. They quoted me which was real nice. They have a nice warranty. And are many locations and partner shops all over the country where you can have warranty service done. read more

Santee location HORRIBLE CUSTOMER SERVICE!!!!!!!!! I reached out two weeks ago about swapping wheels and tires on a set of custom wheels. Yesterday my mechanic confirmed that they COULD AND WOULD swap my wheels and tires. Today I bring my wheels and tires and the manager on duty today was Mike. When we dropped the wheels off at 1400 we confirmed with him that the wheels and tires needed to be swapped. Mike said he couldn't put used tires on used rims after we confirmed not once but twice. Mike then agreed after we alerted him that we had confirmation that they could do it. Mike then said he would have the wheel done today. I come back two hours later in which he said could I could back tomorrow AFTER HE AGREED EARLIER to have my wheel and tires swapped. Mike then said he would have the wheels done just give him sometime. Mike called back in 30 mins to inform me that they couldn't swap wheels and tires without damaging my new wheels. (Which means I will damage your new wheels if you want me to swap wheels and tires). This experience was very unprofessional being that we planned and confirmed this over two weeks ago. I don't not recommend anyone take the vehicle to the small family business! read more

This establishment really helped me out on a tight situation on my Camry. It's the only car I have and they understand the whole sentimental, financial struggle, and professional look on my car. They helped showed me where the problem was on the brakes/foundation of the wheels; I have been told false information/advice from my folks and other auto shops of this case but I'm really glad I chose here of the situation. Family auto service also understood I was struggling independently and they were kind and understanding of adjusting the price I could afford to fix it. I'm relieved that my car nightmare is over and can finally just continue my commuting without the dreadful brakes! read more

My Subaru had been making a horrible noise so we took it to Family Auto in La Mesa. Brian worked on the car and Tate was the manager. They REALLY did their due diligence trying to figure out what was wrong. They diagnosed her then drove her around again then re-evaluated until the pinpointed the problem. It was unfortunately going to be an expensive fix. HOWEVER, Tate called the claims department for my warrantee to get my repairs paid for! A $1500 job only cost me $100!! I love this place! We've been taking our cars here for years and always have a good experience. read more

Took my vehicle there for a smaller issues and had no problem. However, when I returned for a larger issue it immediately went down hill. I was almost instantly offered a payment plan without even having it looked at, which screams "we are going to charge more because you'll be able to make payments." I straight up told them it sounds like the brakes are worn down to the rotors. I also told them it has a suspension issue that makes a noise that I have already had looked at, that occurs occasionally upon turning. I had chosen not to get that fixed at the time and it was not the same noise as that which was currently happening as it was making noise only upon braking as most cars do when the brake pads/rotors are getting worn. I even said that despite the pads having been looked at a few months ago and being told they are still good, it sounds like it is down to the rotors. At that point I was told it would be $200 for a diagnostic and that would go toward the repair if done there. I understand that not all issues are straight forward and require further inspection/tests that take time, however, I was called about 15 minutes after I left and told that the brakes were worn down to the rotor and the suspension has an issue. Both of which I told them upon dropping it off. Their estimate was about $3000. I called around to a few places and no one was even close to that price. I had the work done for around half that cost. My issue is with the cost being so high and being charged a diagnostic fee for something that took them almost no time to do because I told them what was wrong. They didn't have to figure out anything, it was more of a confirmation at that point. They of course chose to keep the $200 for 15 minutes of looking at what I had lead them to, and still tried to push the payment plan on me as a good option for a repair that was higher than any other quotes. Their justification was that they use quality parts. If that is the case than if it is a normal $1500 job, about half of which is labor, then parts costs should be about $750. So, either their parts cost triple or both their labor and parts are double. Given that they told me it was a parts difference, then I'll go with they charge triple in "better parts", in which case the parts should be taking me out on a nice date as well for that much extra. I also explained that this was an older temporary vehicle until I was in a different situation and no other options for cheaper parts were given. Overall, it was obviously a disappointing experience of which I will not be repeating. read more

Sadly, the handle and door of my SUV is still broken. I originally brought it in on October 29, 2024. On this latest "repair" pick up my SUV didn't even make it out of their garage after it was "fixed". The door is stuck closed. It won't open with the key or the fob. Joe asked if I could leave it again, but its a source of family transportation. Huge inconvenience to my family. Joe referred me to FAS in La Jolla where they have higher level technicians. I've had to wait more than 10 days to take my SUV to La Jolla as I live in East County and have no transportation to return to my area once I drop off the SUV. I can't imagine the cost of an UBER to get me home. FAS has yet to call to see what's happening with the repair. Again, you'd think that they would care enough about the customer. Carlos, the District Manager has never once reached out to discuss the issue with my car. And, today I was told that Joe moved to their El Cajon location and the new manager knows nothing. A call would have been the right thing to do. Stating that he Joe, would be my service manager until resolution. Again this location FAILS to provide all around customer service. If the handle cannot be repaired correctly further action will be taken. Beware read more

Wish I could leave a good review but this place is your typical money-seeking auto shop. Gave me a quote and then charged me more than what my quote was and added on a nearly $200 tire alignment. Also came up with repairs my car apparently needed even though I got those parts replaced 2 years ago :(( read more

Huge shout out to Joe and Daniel for providing me outrageous customer service. I was in a pinch, found them on yelp and decided to go there. I'm so glad I did. They totally made me feel like family while I was there. Glad to know that I found somewhere to go for my automotive needs. read more

Came in 30mins before closing with a check engine light. I was in and out in 30 mins with a new mass air flow sensor

they were helpful flexible and easy!!! highly recommend :) i came from auto zone who didn't want to install my battery because its annoying to get to (fair enough they have other things to do) but they did it super easy and fast as a walk in :) super appreciated read more

They've always taken care of us here at family auto, it's become our go to spot for oil changes and other maintenance on both our vehicles! They're reasonably priced and the work is excellent read more

This is my 4th time to Family Auto - 2 times for oil changes, etc and two times for major work. A year ago for shocks/struts on my 2018 Nissan Altima and now with 72K miles, my first brake job. Pricing is great, and there was a $100 coupon available towards my bill. Tate MacKenzie is the General Manager, and Bryan helped explain the process. They were fast, courteous, and very helpful with providing me with the knowledge regarding this repair. I recently moved to El Cajon, and came back especially because of the service they provided !!!!! read more

Just moved to San Diego and my son recommended Family Auto Service to me. I'm so glad he did! Had full brake job (pads and rotors) a new tire and ail change completed in no time. Very good prices, very fair management, very friendly service, very fast response. What more could I ask for. Thanks to everyone there and particularly Joe, who patiently answered all my cautious "first time customer" questions. [Bret S. from Mission Valley] read more

Awesome professionals, great value. They fixed everything I needed in my car, Lance and Carlo are both very friendly with a great customer service. The guys in the back are great too. I will definitely come back for service. read more

I've been coming to this place for 3 years and they are the only people I let touch my car. Mark is extremely informative and makes sure you know exactly what's happening with your car so you don't feel like you're paying for things you don't need or you're being exploited. They are authentic, up front, and are not trying to squeeze you for your dollars. They explain everything they do, tell you what is gonna cost what, and take into consideration your needs and position. Excellent service and I'll keep coming back! :) read more

"Bait and Switch"? I am not saying it outright but you be the judge or at least be forewarned. I visited this location on 9/6/22 @ ~4:15pm (approximate). During this wonderful California heat wave my car AC stopped working without symptoms when it has worked perfectly for years. It's an older car that I may not keep more than 12 more months so I wanted to find someone to diagnose it before I get caught up in any upfront costs. A google search brought me to these folks. See image and this link (bait?): https://familyautoservice.com/promotions/vehicle-ac-special/ Seems straight forward to me: FREE AC INSPECTION which includes among other things "Inspecting Components for proper operation" and checking for leaks using "State-of-the-art equipment". I am thinking perfect!--They can tell me if I need a top off or I have some kind of expensive component failure and I can make an informed decision forward before I sink any money. When I arrive and enter the office I say "I am here for a Free AC inspection, I am not sure if I need refrigerant or if my compressor or some other thing is out". This person says "It's is only a visual inspection". I say that is not what the website says, what is involved in the visual inspection?" He says " We see if it blows cold" (switch?). I said out loud "Are you serious? You don't check anything else? I can tell you that!". He mentioned some amount between $150-$200 (I don't recall exactly $ he said) to perform more than the "see if it is cold" inspection--That feels shady to me. So why not ONE star? There is some legal jargon disclaimer at the bottom of that dang website in smaller print that "most" vehicles needs some other service to properly set levels (but he never saw my car) and I didn't press the person to explain the website. I was polite and he was just dry, not rude. I also left confused how that offer translates to a mechanic "visually" seeing in my AC is cold and doing zero additional diagnostics--It boggles my mind! So you be the judge, look at this image I attached and visit that website and then tell me how a FREE INSPECTION should not cover checking my levels and my components. It is at least too good to be true and you should be aware before you spend your valuable time to go make the mistake I did. read more

LOVE LOVE LOVE this place! Terrific customer service by all staff across the board! Abel was an exceptional member of the team, going out of his way to drive me to work and dropping off my car when the work was done. The car was given to me in stellar condition. The prices are a little too high than what I am accustomed but you are definitely getting what you paid for and then some. I feel at ease when my car is serviced here. I would recommend that you bring you car here and when you do ask for Abel! He treats you like family and will accommodate you and your needs. He'll make it happen. read more

Got charged $170 for them to do absolutely nothing to my car. I stopped going to this place when it was still Bob Bowen because it was getting too expensive and was always told I needed something else done than what I initially came in to have repaired. With the name change, I presumed it was under new management, so decided to try it again since they were close by. I should have spent time calling around. I found a shop nearby that would have done the charging system analysis for $65 and these people charged me $170!!! They do have a complimentary shuttle service, which was nice that I was able to wait in my home. Once I decided to take my car somewhere else that was 1/2 the cost of what they wanted to charge me, that was off the table. They wouldn't come pick me up. The guy that gave me a ride when I dropped my car off said he was the only one in the shop and the shuttle driver was on lunch for about 1.5hrs. When I arrived, he was definitely not the only one in the shop. He wasn't even there at all, the other guy at the desk had to go get him. The other shop I took my car to said some of the things Family Auto was trying to tell me I needed done weren't even necessary. Shocker. I will never go to this place again. read more

Sorry but how do tools , totes and huge wire bag go missing from a truck that's suppose to be locked up in the garage at night - no broken into windows or unlocked doors on arrival of picking up truck - also the work is in the engine and transmission why you in the back seats ????? Windows tented so dark you would really have to take a guess into breaking in to claim those things and tbh there's not even a sign of break in. Haha But the worst thing was when they did nothing and said nothing to help us when we claimed things are missing - all they do is claim "they don't know anything" -mark manager Well what I do know is all those hand tools are useful to a mechanic , and only a mechanic would know the cost of recycling copper. Of course there's no cameras at this location so you think your car is safe overnight when it never really is. They weren't getting paid 5,500 for transmission + diagnostic fee, so they clearly took it upon their selves to get paid with our belongings. Will never be bringing any service back here after this experience. None of it makes sense . They say the car isn't able to get into gear or move , but the truck was clearly moved from across the entire lot and then backed into a spot when it wasn't left that way!!!! We towed it here because it was undriveable- they drive it and then tell us it need a whole new engine because it's blown - yeah maybe because you drove it without any fluid. Police report filed. Customers lost. read more

Family Auto Service - Auto Repair Near Me - La Mesa, California

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! I am sooo happy on my over service with this company! First of let's just say the customer service is top notch AMAZING! From the moment I called over the phone to the moment I drove my 2016 Ford edge car out of their shop! I have came to this location a few times and Everytime their customer service is constantly on point. These guys are Doctors to my car. Jim is the Car Doctor that was helping me out thru this 4 day open heart surgery. My car decided to mix all the fluids into a toxic cocktail causing my engine to twerk as if it was in a night club. Jim was very honest and real when it came to what my car was needing! His communication made it very comfortable and trust worthy to trust him in his quality work. When I was told that my car would be in the shop for 4 to 6 days another co-car doctor helped me find a rental car. I'm telling you customer service is beyond my expectations! The receptionist and Carlo were just as pleasant and understanding and super helpful in the check out process. Needless to say Jim is a bad ass and made my car ride like it is brand new. I LOVE MY CAR ALL OVER AGAIN!!!! Thank you Family Auto Service La Mesa for never lettinge down!!!! read more

Great customer service. Joe was very helpful and always got things done for me in a timely manner. Highly recommend this place for all your cars services and up keeps. read more

We usually go to the dealer for service since Bob Bowen changed owners. Today we got Family Auto Service's Oil Change Special coupon in the mail. It says $24.99 for a conventional oil change with up to 5 quarts of oil and a filter. This is for "most cars and light trucks". My light truck takes 6.6 quarts of oil, so I called to see how much more they would charge me for the additional 1.6 quarts of oil. (2 quarts of oil at O'Reilly costs $11.98.) I figured Family gets it's oil in bulk and it would cost less. I was quoted $59.99 for an oil change with 6.6 quarts of oil. That's an additional $35 for 1.6 quarts of oil. Total SCAM! I told the guy "No Thank You" and he said, "but that comes with a FREE tire rotation". read more

Great shop to get answer on the work for your car and very professional people the great technicians Sergio had the knowledge to get my car to to drive safely down the road. read more

Family Auto Service - Auto Repair Near Me - La Mesa, California

Great customer service and they get the work done fast! I definitely recommend coming here!

Came in from the Imperial Valley and my tire pressure light came on. Called for service and when arrived I was out within less than 30. The manager was very kind and extremely generous to my son and I. Definitely feeling blessed. ​ read more

I took my Challenger here and was having an engine code of a cylinder misfiring. Which is a very serious issue. But, I later learned this code can also be many other different things like bad spark plugs or coil packs. They never told me that at the time. They just said it would cost me over $3,000 to fix it. I was desperate and they said it could cause engine failure. So I paid them. They "fixed" my car and I drove off. One week later, the same exact code reappears. I take it back to them and they admit it must be another problem. They diagnosed again and now wanted another $3000! I told them what about the $3000 I gave you already and you didn't fix the issue! They did nothing to help me out financially after already taking my money and not fixing the problem. My money down the drain... they never even apologized....but that's not all... I've always avoided dealership service shops because they always want to up-sale you for services you don't need. So I wanted to find an honest mechanic shop. I took a risk and took my NEW car back for a simple oil change. Well three weeks later the "change oil" light comes on. I went back and asked them to reset the light. The service rep guy told me that I was DUE FOR A NEW OIL CHANGE!!! AFTER 3 WEEKS! I told him he was out of his MIND. Cheap sleazy tricks. Scammers. Never going back. They are becoming what we fear most, up-sellers. Man, they must be hurting for $$$ read more

Three years ago I took my son's car here for a repair. I don't remember what it was, but it took two weeksI do remember this ends up that they didn't have some special tool that was required. I told myself never again. Tuesday of this week I had forgotten about my son's car. What did I do took another car back there. Big mistake 10 phone calls and three days later and I finally got the car back. read more

I scheduled an alignment and oil change with Family Auto center and as overall disappointed. Family Auto center wanted $2600 to replace a computer module which retails for a fraction of that charge. It's not a difficult task so labor is clearly not the charge. Secondly they performed services that I had another garage complete only a few months prior. I take responsibility for not going the thoroughly through the receipt however some of these services were never mentioned by the mechanic. I'd avoid this place in the future and recommend anyone else to be aware of these practices read more

Great Auto Maintenance place. Very professional and friendly and they send out coupons! Highly recommend for your auto service. read more

Family Auto Service - Great Auto Maintenance place. Very professional and friendly and they send out coupons! Highly recommend for your auto service. - Auto Repair Near Me - La Mesa, California

These guys are OUTSTANDING!! CARLO and LANCE! Excellent customer service, trustworthy, knowledgeable, I had my car seen somewhere else, but I decided to bring it to this place Family Auto Service, great price, very personable, service right on the time they promised. I'm happy as happy can be!! Thank you guys!! I will recommend for sure! read more

Back in the day when they were known as "Bob Bowen's Auto Service" they were a 4-Star establishment with a solid record of competency and integrity. Seems they "rented" Bob's name for a while, and then eventually rebranded--not uncommon when privately held businesses change ownership. Over time, with the change of ownership, they've driven a long-established "family auto service" into a shop whose increasingly focused on up-selling customers, for unrelated repairs, from the initial estimates. They've taken a nose-dive in customer service and customer focus; and their pricing and overall value no longer meets our frugal needs. We would give them a 1-Star rating but for the fact that stuff works when it leaves their shop... However, we've experienced better... Think I'll go back to riding a horse. read more

I had my car in there about 6 months ago. I started having problems. Mark was the guy that told me they did good work. I had to stop in a different shop and they told me that who ever did my brakes did a terrible job. I ended up having to pay all over again. I was out of town and HD no choice. I'll never go there again and will never refer any one. read more

My car broke down in La Mesa and I was concerned since I'm not from that area. I did a google search for auto repair shops close by and was lucky to find Family Auto Service. They gave me an awesome referral to a tow company (ASAP Towing) who came out in a matter of minutes. After my car was towed, Family Auto Service did an amazing job diagnosing the problem. They repaired my car and had it back to me within hours on a Saturday. I was thrilled! Their service is stellar and the repair work was top-notch. I experienced some of the best customer care I've come across anywhere! It makes a huge difference when I can trust an auto repair service to be honest and hardworking to get my old car back in running order. That's why I can't say enough good things about Family Auto Service in La Mesa. They really stepped up & I appreciate it very much! - L. Ladd read more

Family Auto Service - Auto Repair Near Me - La Mesa, California

The right front tire on my car had a bald spot on the outside so I stopped at this place to find out why. They said the front struts were blown, the rear struts were going and they could do the job for over $3500. It seemed like a good idea to get a second opinion. I'm glad I did because the struts were fine and an alignment took care of the problem. After this experience, I wouldn't recommend these people to anyone - they aren't honest. read more

Service good but over price.charged me 2100 for front and rear strut and didn't fix what I took the car in for...how you get 2000$ from parts & larbor adding up to 1200 on there own paper work is crazy...they added 800 magical. I will not take my car there again. read more

This is my second time to visit this shop because they do amazing work! Someone tried to steal my gas and apparently didn't know what they were doing because they damaged my fuel pump and fuel filler hose. Carlo (the manager) called all over San Diego for the hose but ended up finding it in AZ. It was sent over night to my great relief. The final price for all this was over$2100!! Carlo talked to the credit card company and they increased my credit limit! That's what I call going above and beyond. Everyone is so friendly there. Thank you to all, especially to you, Carlo!!! read more