Came in asking for help to get a license plate taken off.Very nice gentleman by the name Yar helped me with no problem, great customer service very nice people. read more

German Auto Sport - Auto Repair Near Me - Berkeley, California

The guys at German Auto Sport clearly care about customer service, and they just saved me a lot of money in a situation where an unscrupulous mechanic could have milked me for money. I took a chance on them based on the Yelp reviews, and I was very satisfied with my first experience. Here's my story: I was trying to buy a BMW Z3 that I found on Craigslist. It looked spotless and drove great, but I needed a prepurchase inspection. The problem is, I just moved to the Bay Area, so I didn't have a mechanic. I set up an appointment through the receptionist Gary, who was very accommodating about my appointment and gave me some advice on how to find a Z3 that's in good shape. Once I got there, they had some delays due to a busy shop and a storm that knocked out power, but they kept me informed with texts and phone calls and were very apologetic about the delay. It was very professional. As it turned out, the Z3 looked great on the surface but had a big problem -- a leaking head gasket that could melt down at any moment, and would cost more than $4,000 to repair. They warned me not to buy the car, and knocked down the price of my inspection from $225 to $185 because they felt bad I wouldn't be able to get the car. As my search continues, I'll definitely be going back. read more

I've owned old BMWs for the better part of a decade now and been to dozens of shops throughout the Bay Area. German Auto Sport is quite easily the best. Chris, the owner, is a huge enthusiast and knows the ins and outs of seemingly all models, old to new. Every time I come in here I feel as though I'm visiting a long lost wing of my extended family, that's how warmly the staff treats you. They're up front and honest about all work that needs to be done, and always have cost effective approaches to solve the simple problems that will cost you half a pay check at other shops. Whether you own an E90 335i that needs an oil change or want to toss a 3.5l inline 6 in your E30 325i to make it a 335i, this is the shop for you. read more

German Auto Sport - A trip to GAS ensures a safe journey for this E34 to Mount Rainier, WA - Auto Repair Near Me - Berkeley, California

Simple: Chris is a good, honest mechanic who is a savant when it comes to BMWs. I can go on about my positive experiences with this place but there are so many postings that already say the same thing. So, ditto. Thanks Chris. read more

Outstanding! The people at German Auto Sport went out of there way to resolve the problems with my 2013 Boxster. Their professional skills are terrific; never had so much satisfaction with the service of my car over the years. And, their customer service is absolutely off the charts! I interacted with several people at GAS and each one was courteous, apologized for even the briefest of holds and thanked me for my business. I recommend them with the highest rating possible. read more

Chris provides high quality service and is passionate about German cars. Highly recommended. -Klaus read more

German Auto Sport hands down is the best. Gary & the technician crew took care of my Beast (E36/7) and provided some added service, definitely referring them to all of my family/friends with a BMW/Mini; you guys rock! read more

German Auto Sport - Auto Repair Near Me - Berkeley, California

I would have ditched that BMW a lot sooner if I had not discovered German Auto Sport. After buying a used '95 325i convertible and driving it for a couple of years, I started to realize that BMW mechanics, from dealerships to little garages, were pretty much *EVIL* through and through. But then I moved to Berkeley and found German Auto Sport, and I realized that I could keep that gorgeous car on the road without providing financial support to the sort of bastards that usually work on BMWs. German Auto Sport was honest and knew what they were doing. They would sell me aftermarket or used parts for those times when I really didn't need a more expensive OEM part for my 10+ year old car, and they'd recommend I use an original part if the aftermarket one was known to be inferior. Bottom line, if you're still enjoying that BMW, German Auto Sport will help you keep it going. Plus they are friendly, a good resource for parts, and they provide great customer service. Postscript: Last year, the car's damned electrical system went on the fritz, so I donated that ton and a half of 92-octane-loving steel to Animal Rescue Foundation and bought a Prius, which saves me over $200 a month in gasoline. read more

Chris and the guys at German Auto Sport are awesome! I brought in a BMW 5-series sedan for a pre-purchase inspection and they saved me from buying a car that would've required between $6K-$7K in repairs and deferred maintenance. Not only did they give me piece of mind before buying the car, but Chris felt so bad that the car was in such bad shape, that he offered to inspect a second car at a discount. The mechanics were really cool, laid back, and easy to talk to and they didn't have that "pretentious mechanic" attitude you generally fear when you go into a shop. Chris was also patient with all of my follow up questions and gave me great advice on what models and years I should avoid and even gave me the heads up that buying a sedan with 4-wheel drive would end up costing me more in insurance and warranty coverage, something I hadn't thought about. Chris also gave me recommendations for shops where I could get a pre-purchase inspection done in other Bay area cities on the chance that I found a car that was not located in Berkeley/North Oakland. I ended up buying a Mercedes (and will use a mechanic that Chris recommended in the event that I ended up not finding a BMW), but if I ever come to own a BMW, this shop will get my business! read more

Let's just say... Chris Lingle - the owner... studied & practices EVERYTHING about BMW's... so WE dont have to... YAY!! He answers the phone with a smile.... has a very clean shop, and is very fair & upfront in his pricing for job execution. He got my initial business because of just that. He'll get all of my future business because of that too! read more

Ok, so here is how the story goes: I fall in love with a 1987 E30 BMW and buy it, without taking it to a mechanic first. Normally I would never do this, always take it in for the 10-point inspection was my motto. I don't take my own advice and I drive down the road in my new car. So late that night when I can't figure out why my windows won't go up (its not the fuse) and the internet is of no help I search Yelp for the first time and find out about German Auto Sport. Bright and early in the morning I call the guys at German Auto and tell them about my window that worked fine all day until I pulled over to pick up my friend (using the emergency flashers of course). The patient gentleman asks if the button to the right of the flashers is showing red. "Yes." "Ok, push that button in." "Ok, done." "Do your windows work?" "YES!" "That is the circuit breaker for you windows. This happens to new owners all the time." This was the beginning of my relationship with this awesome shop. They are always helpful and willing to describe in great detail why something is doing what it is. I ask a lot of questions and they always make time for me. Chris has created an environment where you trust the advice they give. I can buy a part and call for help when I can't figure which way it goes in. Or they will say, "Just come by and we will show you how. No charge for that." I have had to do some major work to this car and I feel sure that every penny I spent at German Auto Sport was not only necessary but well worth it for the quality of work. I would suggest this shop to anyone looking for a mechanic or parts. These guys rule. read more

Wow. This is what service used to be. These guys rock. From explaining what they have done, to actually showing you the parts and why then needed changing. Not to mention very reasonable pricing (but with an M3 what does that really mean??). My M3 is staying with G.A.S. exclusively. Awesome! read more

These guys are great. Everyone from the shop owner to the receptionist, Gary (a shining beacon of customer service; seriously this guy is awesome) are professional, polite and knowledgable guys. I personally think that is THE MOST important thing about almost any business, so I could stop there...but there's more. They couldn't replicate the problem I was having with my Mini (the details of which I won't get into, but it is minor) and so didn't charge for the TWO different occasions I brought it in and they did diagnostics, a full inspection & even fixed a few minor issues with some switches not working. This is a shop owner that has integrity, evidenced by his devoted customer base. From now on, I'm not taking my Mini anywhere else. Ever. read more

Chris and his team are great to work with: I wanted a pre-purchase inspection done on a notoriously high-maintenance car and called Chris pretty last-minute. I can tell he didn't really have the time to fit me in the next day, but he offered to anyway which was awesome since I knew other folks were looking to buy the car soon. Unfortunately, the dealer ended up giving me the run-around time-wise and I wasn't able to get the car in at the right time. Chris was extremely gracious about the situation and even offered me some very good advice on the car based on his experience with the model and his current customers who already owned it. He was very up front about the difficulties associated with the car, the high maintenance costs, etc. I would definitely do more business with these guys, especially if you're in the high-performance market. read more

Chris and the amazing crew have been taking care of my family's cars for more than a decade with not only exemplary service but limitless knowledge of BMW's which is very rare. Just the other day my rearview mirror fell off and he helped me repair it in a matter of minutes. Prices are more than fair because you aren't just a customer you become family and I wouldn't trust anyone else to touch my car read more

Went in for a pre-purchase inspection: Work was thorough and informative for both seller and buyer. Cost: $250 (relatively on the higher end) Observation, Experience & Personal Opinion: 1. Probably the tidiest auto shop around Berkeley 2. Very $$$$$$ - repair assessments/recommendations were made in abundance of caution and to 110% 3. BMW snobs// Car lover Conclusion: Go if: You are a car lover and willing and able to get it done to perfection. Dont Go if: you want to save money or do it inexpensively read more

I have been taking my BMW to these guys for the past year and a half or so, and they've been great. I've tried quite a few of the BMW places in the East Bay, and these guys win hands-down. Everyone is super friendly and you get that feeling that they actually care about your car (not just your $$$) and making sure they do everything right. As for the other negative reviews - the only thing that you need to know is that it's a local shop. So yes, they may not be the most organized, they're not dressed in suits, and they don't have a marble-floored office. If you want that, you can go to a dealer..and well, good luck with that. But if you want genuine people who will take care of your car and treat you right, this is the place. The Good: + Great group of people - nice enough to let me stand around and watch them work while they explained what they were doing + Honest and reputable + If things aren't 100% when your service is done, they'll do whatever it takes to make sure it is +BMW pros - they all own them, drive them, and love them The Bad: - it's a local shop run by car-loving guys (sorry guys :)), so there will be some amount of disorganization. But if they forget something, just remind them - they'll get right on it. ..mm that's all I got. Give them a chance. Talk cars. And have fun. read more

I have only one experience with them but it was excellent. Needed to repair a few things before selling my VW. They did it cost effectively (saved me several hundred dollars compared to what another mechanic had quoted me on, and who had mis-diagnosed the problem). Referred me to BuggyBank, where I ended up successfully selling my car. Good people. I'll use them again if I end up buying one of the makes they service. read more

AMAZING. I would drive my E30 across the country to have these guys work on my car. And literally, I will plan a trip back to SF when this car needs something (I moved to LA). I've been driving german cars since I could drive and it is the worse when you try out a mechanic and they really don't know german cars. It sucks even more when you bring it to a german automotive and they don't have as much knowledge about your beloved car as they should. If you are in the Bay area - look no further cause these guys are great. Honest, intelligent, fun, took the time to really explain how the car works, helped me work within my budget, and fixed a few mysterious quirks that the other german car guy couldn't. My story - 1990 325i 4dr manual After I bought this car it needed some mechanical work done. I took it over to PorBoys in Fruitvale and they fixed it up, but the brake fluid light came on right away, they also couldn't fully explain a few questions about sensors, etc. Great guy, but took it back to figure out the light, and check the coolant and he said make an appt. for a coolant flush and to figure out the brake fluid situation. 1. Those things should have been fixed when I left the car there for 2 weeks. Chris would never let this happen. SO, took it over to Chris and he gave it a once over completely, no charge, told me I didn't need a coolant flush, explained to me why the brake fluid sensor sometimes flickers, and sent me on my way without the light coming on again, brakes no longer squeaking on hills, and I swear with a little pep in it. He also gave me a diagnosis of everything in the car and when I may need work done within 5,000 miles, etc. Already impressed that these guys know their stuff, and they are here to help, not screw people over. Car got broken into and auto glass shop replaced it without the window going up and down. Really? Chris + Gary, please help. They got the window cranked back up and diagnosed the problem to be within the wires. (Not a normal diagnosis, but he did it within 10 minutes) No charge. Explained to me how window tints do more than just block sun (they don't allow the window to be smashed as easily.) Coolant hose burst one day, brought it straight in and they didn't have that hose in stock - could have it in the next day, but instead of keeping it there and having me bart home, they just cut and clamped the hose real easy and said come in when you can. No charge. Brilliant and good guys. Not enough cookies could show them my gratitude on working on this car. All in all, these guys are great. Good guys, that do good work, but really it comes down to the knowledge they have about BMW's. Seriously, I've never known a shop to know more about these cars then these guys. Oh - and don't be bothered if they seem a little rushed over the phone when you call them to ask to bring it in. They are super busy, and of course you should bring it in. read more

This is a really solid shop. They diagnosed and fixed my car fast. The customer service was really good and communication was clear and fast.. It felt like this is a solid operation. I had a chat with the tech that worked on my car and he even took the time to take a drive with me and listen to the car. I will say that the shop isn't inexpensive, but it's in line with other shops that work on German cars and they were fair, honest, and straightforward. I will go back if I need other work. read more

Chris is a solid guy with a passion for BMW. Have no doubts when coming to this shop. They do great work at a competitive price. read more

Great place to get your Bavarian auto service done, customer service is bar none. Chris and his team are passionate about what they do to make sure you car is in tip top form. read more

I'd give this place 10 stars If I could. If you have a VW, this is your spot. (they also do Audis and Bimmers, but that's it). I have an '86 Jetta GLi which needs occasional love and attention, and when I can't fix it myself, I bring it here. When I can fix it myself, this is where I come for parts: new, used, or aftermarket. The prices are great, and they guys there will take the time to talk to you, help you figure out your problem, sell you the parts, and show you how to put them in. I buy my oil filters here, always pay $5 cash, and get a free drain plug washer. I bought a coolant overflow reservoir there, it failed within a year, I brought it back, and they replaced it for free. It's just so rare to find mechanics and parts guys this knowledgable, this passionate, and this honest. And at a great price. If I ever move away from Berkeley, this will probably be the place I miss the most. They also have some great mechanics and have been expanding their service department over the past few years. Just last week, one of my rear wheel bearings went. They scheduled me for the next day and had the car done by 4. And, when I dropped it off, Walt (the service manager, I think) offered to drop me off anywhere in Berkeley. This is car repair like it should be done. They respect cars, respect customers, and respect their customers wallets. (I've been a customer for 7 years) read more

They are expensive, but they are very good. Chris also throws in a whole lot of free stuff and free work. I bought a used BMW and went there for the pre-purchase inspection, and they looked at absolutely everything. He explains everything in detail, and what can I say, I left feeling very confident that I knew exactly what was going on with every part of the car. read more

You gotta hand it to the Germans, they never go half-assed on anything, and German Autosport carries that precision ethic along in everything they do. Chris, Sharyar and crew - what's not to like about German Autosport? I've been taking my 1984 533i 5-speed to Chris for over two years (and quite often, since it's a restoration project). From the first interaction, I was sold. I've dealt with other BMW mechanics in the Bay Area, and these guys are honest to a fault. I trust them completely. They do excellent work, are very passionate about BMW's, and costs are very fair. From past experience, believe me, I know. They treat each car, no matter how old, as if it were brand new. Another reviewer said it best: it feels like you're taking your car to your good friend's house. Your friend who also happens to be scarily genius with BMW's, I would add. Bonus: if you refer someone to them, and that person turns into a customer, GA will give *you* a half-hour of free labor. I love that. I should help Chris and company out, and set potential customers straight. German Autosport will not work on your VW or Audi or Mercedes. They are BMW & Mini specialists ONLY. They WILL however, refer your non-Bimmer to a great shop. They know everyone, it seems. Go next door to Karmakanix if you have a VW or Audi (the BF has a VW Jetta, and good experiences with them). The old owner of German Auto, whom Chris used to work for, wrenched the other German brands, but Chris stopped doing that when he bought the shop. I, for one, feel better knowing that this shop focuses on BMW's exclusively. read more

Chris and the guys at German Auto know their stuff, are not price gaugers, and friendly to boot. I'm one of their many fans and have been coming here since I bought a used BMW a couple of years ago. They even came out to my car to check it out when I couldn't get it there, saving me from a tow (I work in the neighborhood). Five stars all the way! read more

My family has been taking our BMWs (old BMWs, we're not rich) to German Auto Sport for more than 10 years. None of us are auto-savvy, and we definitely don't pretend to be. But despite that, I've never been talked down to or made to feel stupid for my lack of auto knowledge. All I know is that my 1997 M3 runs like a beast!!!! Thanks, Chris. You're the best! read more

Chris and the team have always treated me like a friend. I have been getting my car serviced here for a few years. The prices are always fair and they really take care of me. Whenever I have questions or concerns they lay it all out and explain it in plain English. Also, if I want to try to do a fix at home they will give me tips and tricks to make it easy. Happy to have a shop that is enthusiastic and helpful. I highly recommend German Auto Sport read more

I came here to get my brakes changed after the dealer quoted me nearly double what this shop did it for. I had to get my rear pads and rotors replaced and they did it all for a good price! They were quick and even offered uber rides to and from! The staff was very professional and friendly and extremely welcoming upon walking in and that ultimately gave me the confidence to give over my car! They offer all types of service so I'll definitely be coming back for my regular maintenance items! read more

My radiator blew out on me while I was driving down San Pablo on the way to the gym and German Auto Sport serendipitously happened to be right across the street when I painfully made it to my location. Chris, Yar, and the team there have done great work on my M Coupe. If you want a no frills garage with a knowledgeable team of techs who are also passionate about BMWs, German Auto Sport is your spot. One thing to keep in mind is that you will be paying a premium, but I've never felt like I was being upsold and have consistently received exceptional service on all fronts. In my last maintenance visit, Yar walked me through all the recommended repairs (a good amount for an 18 year old car) and was transparent about what was most critical and what could wait, considering my budget constraints. I will definitely be back to finish up the rest of the work needed! read more

First-rate customer service here -- the complete opposite of the aggravating experiences I've had at a number of local dealerships. Chris, Sheila and team were a pleasure to deal with. They even went the extra mile and removed some paint from the ragtop of my convertible. I had tried and tried myself but with no luck. Thanks guys! I'll be back to see you for the future service we discussed. read more

Now I know why you guys give German Auto Sports five stars! I took My 04 e46 to German Auto Sports, I spoke to Chris and yup he is an BMW encyclopedia. What a great person and he manages a great team at German Auto Sports. I recommend this shop to any BMW owner in the Bay Area. One thing I like the most about German Auto Sports/ Chris is that he tells you what is happening in full detail and if he knows that he can fix the problem, but knows someone that can do it better than him. He will recommend that person. Not many people/shops do things like that. Keep up the great work!!! read more

BELIEVE THE HYPE!!! These guys are really all that and then some. If I could give them ten stars I would. I found German Auto Sport on Yelp while trying to find a new mechanic that would have the patience and passion for working on my '86 535i. These guys sounded great so I made the trek from SF to Berkeley with high hopes of finally solving my car's random and intermittent problems. These guys rocked my world and fixed my car!! I could not be happier or say enough good things about Chris and his crew. A++ for customer service. A++ for knowledge and expertise and A++ for passion and dedication. I will never go to another mechanic again! read more

I have had a MINI for about 5 years now. Never in that time did I go to the right mechanic until NOW. I was fortunate to have someone from Audi refer the dynamic duo Chris and Gary to me when I had 48,292,392 million problems with my extremely modded MINI. (That therein lies the problem already). I had to keep my MINI there for a month, and even had to take it back once more when my spark plug blew out my car. Chris and Gary were extremely informative (not generic like how most mechanics are) and REALLY knew about the MINI inside and out. They did not only know their stuff, but were extremely caring and helpful in letting me know how to handle my monster issue of a car. They were extremely patient and really dove into each problem of the car with extreme curiousness and determination to figure out what the hell is wrong with it. I had ECU problems, software problems, exhaust problems, and I think I originally took it in because it was running too lean. When I got my car towed, Chris took the initiative to make sure the tow guy hitched it correctly because hell if I knew the right way. Point is, they're your neighborhood mechanics. Caring, concerned, well-informed, trustworthy, reliable, and certain. I just bought a new Hyundai and am sad I won't have to go to them again =( Only downfall I have to mention is that it is hard to contact them by phone. But that is only because they're so darn good and always busy with influx and returning customers. They're funner in person anyway. ;) Thanks guys! read more

I decided to use another mechanic on my 328 BMW. Bad decision. We had to call upon Chris's expertise, who has in the past done Great work on my car, to see if he can assist my current mechanic who has had my car for over 3 weeks (still not running). Chris has offer his expertise to this mechanic without hesitation. I am in the midst of an E36 transmission swap $2,000.00 in labor cost out the window and now I its going to be heading back to Chris, which I should of started there in the first place. read more

I've been going to Chris for over 7 years now. His crew and technicians have always treated me with kindness and respect. I typically do my own maintenance on my vehicles and do a fair amount of research of what's going on with it prior to stepping through the door if it was a problem too much for me to handle. German Auto Sport has always been spot on with the diagnosis I've made on my own. Their pricing has always been considerable less than any dealership around and believe me, I've done my research. Even with a nice (friend of the owner) discount from a dealership I've personally designed (Mechanical/Electrical Engineering) in the East Bay, German Auto Sport has always kicked their @$$ and I've never come back to have the same problem fixed. With my most recent visit, I've needed several major maintenance issues taken care of. They were respectful of my budget and threw in a couple of additional Items that could certainly wait until the next pay period (Taxes Sucked!). I never asked if they could "Just throw it in", but they did anyways. BMW Experts they are and referrals I will continually give to my family and friends, 10 so far and not one has had a complaint. They are always thankful and sometimes I wonder how he puts food on the table for his family and workers at the rates they charge. Cheer's and continued success! read more

My first experience was very positive. The staff seem very knowledgable. They answered phone calls promptly and performed a solid pre-purchase inspection with lots of notes. I will certainly be bringing my Porsche back to them again. read more

Chris: My first time at your GAS shop, for a repair problem, was very unsatisfactory. Firstly, before bringing my car to your shop for repair, I talked to you about an evaluation of my Z4's status, since I wanted to change my BMW repair shop. When I had a problem with the Z4, having found water in the battery compartment, and no one, including you and your manager, Yar, were listening. Moreover, I was under the impression that your evaluation of my Z4 was what I heard you say, and I found out that this was not true. You only used this evaluation fee on what my problem was at this time, and not on other potential problems; a miscommunication scenario! Moreover, what does water in the battery compartment mean to a professional repair person, and what do you replace above all other problems--THE BATTERY?? Furthermore, your GAS manager, asked me what I wanted to do about the audio system, which was also compromised, and was the first sign of the water damaging the amplifier; at that time of the audio system being damaged; I did not know that water was present in the battery compartment, and incidentally, the amplifier was situated in front of the battery itself, and should have also been replaced by you at the same time with the battery. Remember you had my car for 3 days, and said that everything was ok, after I had told you to replace the battery. What was really irritating me was the GAS manager telling me that it would cost another $195 evaluation fee to ascertain what was the amplifier problem, and you telling me not to go to an audio shop for some nefarious reasons; if you knew the amplifier was also in the battery compartment, you should have realized it was also compromised, but I assume from your answer to not go to a professional audio shop, you were not knowing where the amplifer was located!!! Clearly, if you had listened to me about having water in the battery compartment, also containing the amplifier, you would have replaced the battery, and the amplifier, and saved me from going to Hi Tech Audio, and them telling me in 5 minutes that the amplifier was compromised being in front of the battery, and then having the car die again from a water damaged battery. Replacing the battery at Bavarian Professionals, and the amplifier at Hi Tech Audio fixed the problems. I hope these constructive comments will provide an incentive to you and Yar to listen more carefully to the car owner about the problem at hand; however, I will not be a returning customer, in that your lack of understanding on both problems has caused me to lose confidence in your ability to articulate the fee structure for repair, and the time consuming and $$ consequences of not listening to me. ***Footnote: The GAS manger, Yar, called me after he read my critique of GAS, and asked me what it would take to provide a better rating, and I suggested returning the $$ I paid for GAS basically wasting my time and $$, and he graciously did refund my payment, but I feel that this constructive critique is needed for GAS to better serve their future clients, but to reiterate, I will not be returning.*** The rating reflects the dysfunction I observed at GAS from the owner, Chris, to the office manager, Yar!! read more

You could easily drive by and miss this shop; it is that small. But great things often happen in small places and what counts is not the fanciness of the facility (though it doesn't hurt) but rather the quality of the staff. In this case, the mechanics. Chris does not call them technicians because they can do so much more than just plug your Bimmer or Porsche into a machine and let the machine do the repair. No, these guys know cars and engines and when I brought my '02 330i for repairs I knew I had found the right place. I bought it used and it needed a lot of work but now... now it purrs and sings as I drive it. Well worth the expense and the time as these are wonderful cars (anyone reading this will confirm) and deserve the best care around. GAS is a great place to take your ride and they stand by their work for several years as well. I will be back. Thanks Chris, Yar, Ben and Alex. read more

I'm so glad I was able to bring my 97 740iL to Chris for it's overheating problem. After getting the estimate from the dealer, he was almost half of what they wanted, and he had my car ready the next day,where the dealer made me feel like they were doing me a favor by having it ready in a week. Tell me that wouldn't make you smile. I wish he fixed motorcycles there, my BMW bike could use a service. read more