This is one of the most honest real auto shops I've ever been. Been coming here for years, and I always get the best advice and the absolute best price. I'm so sick of other auto places with stupid shady people willing to rip you off. Mike is the real deal, please come see him before you go anywhere else, you'll save yourself money time and probably find the auto shop you call your own. Thank you, Mike, thank you Brian, thank you Fred's automotive. read more

Freds Automotive - Auto shop - Auto Repair Near Me - Vista, California

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Horrible customer service! We purchased brakes with a lifetime warranty and expected the owner to honor the agreement. At first, he refused because we didn't have the receipt. Once we located and showed him the receipt, he changed his reasoning and continued making excuses rather than honoring the warranty. The lack of honesty and accountability was frustrating. Extremely disappointed with this business. read more

Mike and crew are hard working HONEST men! They do work that any car dealership would charge triple or more, and take days to do the job. We take both our cars to this shop, and are always happy with the work and the fair price. If you dont have experince with auto repairs, this is your place, you wont get ripped off! read more

Immediately checked my tires for me and gave me knowledge about tire pressure, sensor, and a flat. All for free. They were professional and patient with me. Highly recommend. read more

I came in to do a simple tire rotation I bought wheels form them 3 months ago or 5000 miles and got them for 560 dollars and a 30000 miles guarantee with rotation every 5000 miles I come in and ask them if they can rotate my tires they ask me for my receipt I look don't have it but I have my credit card receipts which state the store the address and the amount which I paid plus a little description of the tires (tires x4) I tried showing him and the mechanic says that it doesn't prove that I bought them here that they have location in many places I try and ask can you see in your computer I have the transaction number and he states that they don't keep any records of that I ask for the manger and he's not here I go to my house get the receipt come back recognizes me. He has a sour look in his face. I give him the receipt. He doesn't even look at it for more than a second gives it back to me, and then starts on the service. I should've had my receipt, but through my banking app you could see the transaction you could see the name you could see everything all the information about the tires in the shop and how much they charged and it would've been OK if it was just like him saying hey our policy is if you don't have a receipt, we can't change it, but the fact that he said that you might not have gotten them here. How do I know when I'm showing him the receipt that says I got them here here's a website here's your address and not even trying to look in the computer for my transaction. I'm very frustrated with this company I've only used them once because it was an emergency and I thought well. This could be my go to spot. It's closer to home than my usual mechanic but after my 30,000 mile guarantee for my tires are up. I'm never gonna use them again if you guys just work on your customer service I'm Tryna fix the prom helping the clients and having an electronic record display would be much better because who doesn't keep electronic records of credit card transactions when you take credit cards as payment read more

Fred's automotive is the best they don't treat you like just a customer with a paycheck they take care of you and your car and they care they don't do services that are unnecessary they are honest and trustworthy I take all my family's vehicles there read more

My wheels were making a weird noise, and my rotors were super loose with my spacers. I pulled up almost an hour before they closed, the guy gets me new spacers for a good price, and then puts them on. Solved all of my problems, and had me test drive it before I paid to be sure it all worked. Didn't try to sell me anything I didn't need, and fixed exactly what I had requested. Solid 5/5. read more

Freds Automotive - Way better fitment! - Auto Repair Near Me - Vista, California

The staff were kind, friendly, and quick! I had my brakes and tires replaced for a very reasonable amount. Service did not take very long after they accommodated us as a walk-in. I highly recommend getting your vehicle serviced at this automotive business. They speak English and Spanish! read more

Freds Automotive - Automotive business - Auto Repair Near Me - Vista, California

....Mike did an outstanding job replacing rear seal main and engine oil pan gasket...even replaced the oil filter with a WIX oil filter, as well. My 2004 Chevy Tahoe was serviced correctly and expeditiously at reasonable cost...he is very familiar with preventive maintenance/service and care of Chevrolet engines.....I had been to other (won't name here) auto repair and service shops in and around Vista and on several occasions found discrepancies with these auto shops' use of after market (non OEM) cheap parts i.e cheap oil filters, air filters, seals and gaskets...its not so much the after market parts, but the lousy installation of these parts that came with the install of these parts had the previous auto techs (wont name Companies, here) spent a bit more time being careful installing them correctly to begin with....and following the parts instruction directions, too....Freds Automotive gets 10 out of 10 stars for the long term care, service and maintenance of my 2004 Chevy Tahoe....although busy at times (Freds Automotive) most ALL your automobile needs, tires, wiring issues....etc can be properly repaired/replaced HERE so your vehicle may last years and years of dependability....try out those WIX oil filters, too....Happy Trails : ) read more

Three different cars all with plenty of problems. From radiator and a hood that won't close, to brakes and full engine tuneup, to rodent damage on the electrical. They did it all. Quick, affordable and reliable. I recommend Fred's to all my friends and family. read more

I usually don't write reviews for auto shops but I have to give my honest opinion about Fred's because they've helped me so much! I decided to stop by this shop due to a constant dead car battery problem and I was stranded in Vista after visiting my boyfriend. I came in and right away I was helped, the guy went to take a look under my hood right away and noticed that my negative battery terminal was loose and in bad condition. I asked him what option would be my best bet - getting a whole new terminal cable for my car ($25 fix) or just fixing the negative terminal cable ($15 fix). He offered his most genuine opinion and said I really didn't need to get new cables, he could do a simple fix by replacing the negative cable and adding a new screw! He didn't even try to rip me off for the amount or convince me to replace the whole thing in order to make money out of me. This is my first story. I came back again realizing my battery was draining water cells. He was happy to help me again and had a look, told me it was very low and offered to do it at NO COST. He gave me great advice on what I could do in the future to avoid this problem again. Quick service and very honest people here. My car is now running in good shape. Thanks to Fred's for always taking care of me! I know I'll be back whenever I'm in town in need of help. read more

After making a, what is now a bad decision. I found myself having to get a certified brake and light inspection. Was able to call ahead and make an appointment with these guys this week. Service was good, they were able to get our vehicle in quick and easy. If your looking for a brake and light inspection I highly recommend these guys. And the price seemed fair and reasonable. When you add all that together great Combo. I would suggest... A better night drop location and/or customer info cards to fill out when doing a night drop. Just a thought. read more

Freds Automotive - Fred's Automotive - Auto Repair Near Me - Vista, California

Used them twice already this week for smog certification. Found them on groupon. $15 groupon + $20 fees and cert. = $35.00. Tech was quick, in and out in less then 20 minutes. Would use them again. read more

I needed a complete brake job on my 1967 Meyers Manx. Took it in on Wednesday at 2pm. Agreed on a price and was promised it would be done by business end on Thursday. Called them on Friday and was told a part would be delivered in twenty minutes and it would be ready in two hours. Called at 11:15 and was told they needed 45 more minutes called at 1pm and was told they didn't let being pushed. Picked up at 1:30pm and the braked are mushy and my speed odometer no longer works. I paid them and will have to take it another shop to finish the job. Started out nice and friendly but turned sour. read more

Was out in 20 mins they changed both headlights on my 06 Pontiac they are honest and reputable went to different shop they stated too complicated to change bulbs. read more

Brought my 56 Bel Air in for a simple Headlamp aiming, and they did a fantastic job. I will be back in the future. Thanks Fernando. read more

1st time customer & I will now be a customer for life. Fred's Automotive was absolutely A+++++. I was referred here by a friend who's family has used Fred's for over 20 years. I wasn't disappointed. I plan on keeping my 2003 Toyota till it can't be fixed anymore (is that even possible with a Toyota?) So I am happy to have found an honest, fair, customer motivated shop. No crazy up sells of "ma'am your children are in danger if you don't pay thousands of dollars RIGHT THIS MINUTE" Just pure, simple, honest to goodness work for what needed to be done. Thank you to Oscar for answering my many questions with a pleasant demeanor, and to everyone in the shop. My family is grateful! read more

Seriously one of the best auto service experiences I've ever had, and by far the best I've had so far in Vista. They're quotes have always been slightly lower than any other quotes I get when calling around, and the story never changes when we arrive, as at some other places. It's old school in there too, because they don't have a fancy office or huge waiting room, just great affordable auto service and a friendly staff. They probably spend their money on their staff and equipment instead of high price coffees, magazines, and kids' toys! I went in originally for a diagnostic because I had failed a smog test. They did the diagnostic, fixed me up (nothing was actually wrong except my gas cap was worn out and loose which triggered a lean code), and then cleared my check engine light, all for like $60. Ever since I've been taking my wife's and my car there for everything. A lot of times they come in under the original quote, because they don't try to upsell you or do anything that's not needed or truly advisable. Big thanks to David, Oscar, and the rest of the crew for being honest and on point! read more

Made an appointment for a smog check and I was in and out of there in 20 minutes. Excellent customer service and they have the best prices around. There is also a $5 off deal if you check in on yelp so it was only $45. I called a few other places and they were charging $60 so I feel like this is a good deal. Definitely going back there when I need to. read more

My go-to mechanic for 20 years. Fair, honest, reasonable prices. I wouldn't take my vehicles anywhere else. Friendly, knowledgeable mechanics. read more

Awesome! And I really mean awesome service. From techs to Manager Oscar. prices are more then reasonable turn around times are good. I have been here for simple things to big tune ups and I also had one light inspection from a salvage car I had. It was the cheapest price around even went to fall brook and they where charging more then here. Thank you Fred's Automotive and the great team they have. read more

I like Fred's Automotive! Oscar is a professional and great to deal with! I am in the automotive industry as well and just feels good to deal with other professionals! I use their services for brake and light inspections amongst other services. A great one stop shop and they've been in this location since 1958 so that must say a lot about their work! Thanks Guys! read more

Freds Automotive - All their certifications in plain sight! - Auto Repair Near Me - Vista, California

Not helpful at all. I came in at 4:30 and they charged me 65.00 for 5 minutes of work that didn't fix my vehicle, and then told me to come back tomorrow. I do NOT recommend. read more

They did a rebuild on my motor and got it back to me quicker than I expected. Every other shop I went to, told me it was going to take atleast a 9 days but they did it in 4. read more

These guys were super friendly and got the job done. It cost me 60 bucks to get an issue fixed that would have costed me 150+ dollars anywhere else. I don't want to come back here because that means something is wrong with my car, but i will definitely come here if needed! read more

This is the best auto repair shop I have been in,there personal is very professional and friendly,I highly recommend it,they tell me exactly what my car problem was,and charged me less than what other shops in the area want it to fix my car,I highly recommend this shop. read more

Don't pay attention to the 1 star reviews, they can't be accurate. They are just mad they had to put money in to their car. I have been coming to Fred's for 16+ years. I purchased one of my first few cars from their used car sales. It was an excellent purchase because they inspect and repair all vehicles before placing them up for sale. I assume it is family run, and if not, they treat you as though it is. Quick, VERY reaonable pricing, honest reccomendations on what needs to be fixed on your vehicle. There is no reason to look elsewhere for your auto repair needs. read more

If you need automotive repair go to Fred's. They are reasonable,thorough and quick. I had a leak. I knew it was the heater core. They did it in one day. And let me use the shop truck to go to school. They get 5 stars from me. And they are friendly. read more

Went in the other day for a break and light check. The staff was extremely helpful and courteous and I couldn't be happier with the service provided. Thanks again! read more

I have been coming to Fred's for 6 years now. Each time I have brought my car in they diagnosed the problem and fixed it. Great service, and they don't try & swindel you with unecessary repairs. I have also referred my children to get their cars repaired here & they have no complaints as well. read more

I have been going to Fred's for many many years even before they moved to their current location. We have to drive a lot farther now, but it's worth it. My first time at Fred's was after I did a lot of comparison shopping for a repair I needed and they were the best price ( Firestone being a couple hundred more!) I trust them and they have always done a great job. And... I am all about supporting local businesses and not chains (where of course you have to pay for all their advertising). They're the best! read more

Thanks again to Sherry, Oscar and the rest of the gang for great service and honest work and pricing!! When you want an honest shop with great integrity and excellent workmanship...go to Fred's! They are professional yet personal, and incredibly knowledgeable about diagnostics, repair, and maintenance always! Owning and operating Shaw's Autosport Autobody and Paint for almost 40 years, we have referred countless amount of clients to Fred's also we trust them not only with our own vehicles but with our clients vehicles as well!!! Thank you again & Make It A Great Day, Scott & Maryjean Shaw Shaw's Autosport AutoBody & Paint read more

Wouldn't go anywhere else. They have friendly staff who will tell you whats wrong, what has to be done and would could be done now or later and I never feel like they are taking advantage of me or just trying to get my money. Quick, friendly, and honest, and some great prices :) read more

This place is excellent! I just moved in town. My previous mechanic said i needed to have my wheel bearings replaced soon. I checked Yelp for a recommendation, & Fred's Automotive came up with the best reviews! And they are so right! Everyone, from Oscar the Mgr. and all the staff are excellent! They took care of me right away & even gave me a ride home! They went above and beyond my expectation level! I now found my new garage to get my car worked on. Thanks so much all you guys @ Fred's Automotive! read more

MAJOR DISAPPOINTMENT! I was referred to this location to get my fix it ticket signed off because they were certified to inspect my truck and to give clearance that the issue had been fixed. Upon the first time visiting they said they would not be able to clear the issue without having an inspection of the entire vehicle. Then after 3 hours they said they needed to fix multiple other items that had no issue before signing off. I then come back 2 days later when they said the person who could inspect the truck would not return for another 3 hours. This caused me to have to come back the following day and nothing was inspected. Finally when I said I was done and would be leaving they tried to get me to stay by saying the part they needed they would purchase from O'Reilly auto parts and I would have to stay another 4 hours. In the end not a single issue was resolved and the customer service was terrible. I will never return or advise any person to this business. The customer service was terrible and I feel that they lied to me on multiple issues. Stay away. read more

We've got a high mileage car, almost 200,000 miles and Fred's Automotive has kept her on the road. They don't do unnecessary repairs or 'costly' diagnostics. Very affordable, efficient and HONEST. Highly recommended. Doesn't gouge like the dealers! read more

Huge Disappointment. 4 full days with my vehicle. Each time I returned., Something new was wrong. More $$. When I complained about the outrageous charges that had accumulated I was charged an additional $45 as a punishment. Bad memories of the prior owner. I will not return. read more

My husband, sister and i have all used Fred's for brake service, smog and oil changes. I never feel ripped off when we use them. I recently had to get our brakes changed and they not only finished them in a timely manner, they brought me back home and picked me up when it was done. They do honest work and I would definitely recommend them to anyone who is looking for their neighborhood mechanic. read more

Great service! Friendly and got my work truck running again! Didn't upsell me any service I didn't need. They gained my trust and I will continue to use them for all my maintenance. read more

My go to mechanic. No place else compares for me. Very trustworthy, inexpensive, and they definitely know what they're doing.