Wanted to update, although keeping my review at 4 stars. Really the cost and some of the presumptions they make are the only thing keeping them from 5 stars. But don't get me wrong, this place is top-notch and a very rare find in northern Virginia. I went back for what I think is my fifth time this past Saturday. My last time in was for major work, but this time, I was just getting an oil change. I made an 8 a.m. appointment, was promptly greeted by a friendly fellow and quoted a 45-minute wait time, to which they adhered. They also fixed a clanging noise I had underneath the heat shield caused by a loose clamp, free of charge. The only issue was they gave me the more expensive $70+ synthetic oil change without asking me my preference. SO SPECIFY UP FRONT, because they otherwise presume you want the top choice stuff. They also are very thorough with their look-over of the vehicle during the oil change and noticed my battery charge was critically low and that my air filter was beyond worn out. They didn't try to upsell me, just told me those things needed addressed as soon as I could get to it. I ended up buying a battery and air filter cheap at Advance and installing myself because those are no-brainer, five-second fixes. I really, really, like this place and can't recommend them enough. As I've said before, you won't save money here, but you will save a lot of time and frustration. Other places I've had to go back several times, even after simple oil change type stuff, to get fixes to things that weren't broken before. Most mechanics in this area seem incompetent and can't convey in plain English to you anything about what they're doing (and I think half of them just make up vague problems to upsell you on). Tom and Chuck don't do that, and they seem very honest. read more

Recently, I went to this gas station and I was told I needed front and back brakes and rotors. I got new brakes and rotors for the front. I went to another shop a week or so later and was told I didn't need rotors for the back (just brake pads) and charged me a LOT less. I'm very disappointed because I've been to this gas station before and I felt as though they were honest. I'm all for making money but not over charging me. read more

Fabulous! Swe is great - repair was done efficiently, quickly and low cost! Saved my day!!

This happens to be right near my parents place so I have made the mistake of coming here twice now for inspections and each time they fail me with some random issue that ends up costing either $800 or $2500! I honestly think they fail you just to pressure you to get it fixed there. Would not recommend you come here. read more

Great place! I get my older Honda serviced here. Super friendly, professional and knowledgable staff!

Sometimes this is the most competitive priced gas station in Vienna. The other one is Dan's Sunoco. That's on the north side of town, more close to Beulah Road and Tyson's area. I fill up here occasionally, depending on what the deal is. Have heard good things about maintenance here, but have only been here for a state safety and emission inspection. These were done quickly. As for the station, it's looking a bit dated. Next to a 711, their convenience store is better. All forms of payment are accepted here. Illumination is quite good for full up's without the sun helping out. You can maneuver a large vehicle here, and there's room for parking too. read more

I have been bringing my vehicles here for over 25 years and have received great service during that time period. In my most recent experience, I brought my SUV here after the dealer (I went because I had a coupon) had told me--after I had waited over two hours--I needed a NEW ENGINE after my "check engine" light came on. I was puzzled, as I am quite good about regular maintenance. So, I called John and Swe at James Madison Shell and they quickly arranged for me to drop my car off and get a loaner. John said he would diagnose the problem and because he had previously worked on my car's engine, he was quite certain that a new engine was not needed. It turns out John was right-after he did some testing and checking, there was a sensor that needed to be replaced. Once it was replaced, and the "check engine" light is now off. I am now driving my vehicle and know that I can count on the folks at James Madison Shell as I have for all these years. Outstanding! read more

Mohamed was absolutely amazing and helpful! Super funny and great energy. I will be specifically going back to this location for all my car services. Overall great place with phenomenal and knowledgeable mechanics. read more

I came here for a safety inspection and have a well-maintained vehicle. In August, my car underwent a 60,000 mile servicing at my usual mechanic. Shell mechanics tried to tell me that a cooling system flush, fuel induction cleaning, power steering flush, and an air filter replacement were desperately needed, for a total of $800. I asked for an estimate, declined the services, and left. I took my car + the estimate to my mechanic and they confirmed Shell's suggestions were bogus upsells. Don't go here for service, especially if you are a solo female. read more

Ok as far as services go. I swear they only hire creeps though. I've been in there over 3 decades and have had multiple employees say inappropriate things to me and one had the audacity to touch me. I reported all these things to management and nothing was done. Don't go there if you're a girl pr woman. read more

I had nothing but awful experiences here. I went for my emissions and state inspection after just moving to the area. Despite the fact that it was empty, I waited for an hour and a half. When my car was finally complete and he came to tell me what was wrong. He lied. About multiple things. And I know this because he listed wrong with my car had just been fixed by my mechanic in CT. He told me I needed new tires (I had just bought 4 the month before), an oil change (also done the month before), and ​an alignment (again, done the month before). He tried to make me feel like my car was about to break down​ if I didn't fix it all immediately and with him. I took my car to a Midas and they fixed the real problem quickly and for a low price. I passed the state inspection and I only had to fix what was wrong with my car. I wasn't lied to like I was here. He also sent me on my way with an unwanted hug and a kiss on the cheek. I will not be returning. I recommend that no one else go there either. read more

James Madison Shell - AWFUL experience. AWFUL service. I will not be returning. - Auto Repair Near Me - Vienna, Virginia

They perform unnecessary and needless maintenance work. I had a problem with my Camry and they first diagnosed the problem and charged $900 for it. Within a week the same indicator came up. Next time they charged $550. Within 5 days the same indicator came up again. This time they wanted $400 and think that should solve it. I took the car to another place which correctly diagnosed the problem and when they saw the previous repairs they were aghast at the incompetence and unnecessary repairs. It costed me $275 and I did not have the problem again (touch wood) for 2 months now. read more

I enjoy coming to this location as I am always kindly greeted by Swe and Dan. I needed an oil change last minute and they were able to fit me in the same week. I recommend to call ahead to make an appointment because they can get very busy! I also find that their prices are great for oil changes and very reasonable for other services! After every service, a technician will go over in detail what was done during the service and any suggested services that may be needed. Customer service is always on point and I will continue to come here for all my auto service needs! read more

James Madison Shell - Auto Repair Near Me - Vienna, Virginia

Came in for my Regular routine... getting my Oil Change done... They notice i have light that was out. They got it done in a heartbeat. Love the idea on how they male sure that their customer drives off safe. Their Safety Inspection is phenomenal. I highly recommend this Auto Shop, their goal... CUSTOMERS SAFETY AND SATISFACTION! That's the James Madison way. They front crew, their Auto Techs and Mgt, are awesome. read more

Sometimes I come here out of convenience due to their location and proximity to my work place. They do have discount packages for services which help save a little money on car inspections and emission checks. They have a friendly staff, and wait time is reasonable but best to make an appointment ahead of time. Unfortunately- like most automobile places they always try to tell you something is old and needs replacement or repair to make an extra buck. Don't like the pressure and harassment. read more

Scammers. I went in for an inspection and they failed me claiming my hood wouldn't open. Said I had to get a loaner and leave it there while they disassembled it. I said I'd fix it myself. I tried when I got home and it was fine. They just tried to trick me to do unnecessary repairs. read more

lying bastards ! 3 days ago they told me that i need a transmission oil change , the thing is i had trsm oil change last month . and they asked 600$ for it. read more

Sent my 20yo daughter to get VA emissions and safety renewed. That went fine. They are friendly. BUT---I couldn't believe they tried to take advantage of her by INCREASING other service WAY beyond what it would cost. See estimate they gave her. Cabin air filter - under $10.00 on Amazon Price for her with labor $147.00 **it takes less than 5 minutes to change** She is smart enough to say no thanks-glad I taught her how to do it! Be careful!! read more

Take my car here for my annual inspection. They are professional and courteous and make the process as easy as can be especially given the current circumstances. read more

Hassim. my Savior. I am in a borrowed car and the tire went flat on my way home. I pulled into the James Madison Shell and Hassim found a nail in the tire; immediately fixed the tire; filled the tire with air; and told me "all done". Who provides that type of service any more!!! And i've never been to this station before. HASSIM did this - this is an example of the type of service Hassim provides. Thank you Hassim. read more

Always a quick, dependable and nice place to visit. I continue to have great experiences here. Staff is great; very welcoming to questions. Wouldn't do anywhere else. read more

I used to bring my car here often and I trusted them. However, after today my mother had a terrible experience. They wanted to charge over $400 for a simple light change, and I had a close mechanic friend change it for under $150. I will not be coming here anymore. They are usually really amicable and are trustworthy in their prices but I am not sure what happened because the past 2 times I have gone there they have stated I had something wrong with my air conditioner and it worked completely fine. I wouldn't come here unless you want to have a bad experience for yourself. Save time and money and pick somewhere more reliable. read more

Beware if you are a female and bring your car for an inspection. They will propose a number of maintenance items, even on a well maintained car. It has happened to me several times and most recently my 21 yr old daughter. Just decline everything and ask your regular mechanic if it really needs to be done. read more

My husband and I have gone here multiple times for a state inspection / emissions since their hours are extremely convenient (7 am - 7 pm Mon - Fri and 7 am to 5 pm on Sat). While there is a line at peak hours, it always moves quickly and they do a great job with the inspection. I recently got an oil change here and it was extremely affordable. They post their oil change prices so there is no bait and switch when you are about to pay. I highly recommend going here to get a great quality service at a fair and honest price! read more

Reliable.. been coming here for years and will have years more to go. Been seeing the same faces here, everytime i come. They do great work and have great hospitality. Why go anywhere else. read more

Oil change and safety inspection for my daughter's Honda CRV. Great service, on time and professional. Across from McDonalds on Maple Avenue. Highly recommend! read more

The location is close to where I live. The staff is friendly, prices are good and fast services! Swe, at the front desk, is always friendly and welcoming when you come in the shop. read more

I've come to get my oil change here for awhile. I used to go to a VA Tire and Auto but it always felt like they were unorganized and an oil change took over 2 hours. James Madison Shell is much more efficient. I set up an oil change appointment and my car was in and out no problem! I'm going to recommend my friends go here and get their cars serviced too. Great experience read more

A few years back I gave this place a 5-star review. I can no longer stand by that assessment of their service, so I am updating my review. I took my older car in for an emissions inspection and state inspection. I am realistic about having an older car and know that sometimes comes with surprises during inspections. Lo and behold I failed both. That's fair. Things started going south when they quoted me $173 for headlight restoration since they were too dim to pass inspection. HA. I could spend less on buying entirely new replacement headlights and installing them myself (or a $10 kit off of Amazon, which I did myself). Second was the way they talked to me as a young female. I know the basics about cars, but every time I tried to ask a specific question about what they had looked at and what still needed to be checked, I got a 10 minute "explain it like I'm 5" explanation, despite already demonstrating that I had basic knowledge of the issue. No thanks. Third, they identified two motor mounts in need of replacement - yet when I went to another shop for a second opinion, only one needed to be replaced. This was made all the more difficult by them not sufficiently describing to me which ones needed to be replaced which would have allowed me to shop around for quotes over the phone. Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, my car has been spewing oil since I brought it into this place. This issue was not happening before (especially since they should have noticed it during the inspection given they were so diligent in checking my headlight dimness). While I hope this can be contributed to this place being SO INCOMPETENT that they damaged the valve cover gasket, I wouldn't be surprised if they saw me as the perfect little damsel in distress that would come running back if my car decided to leak all of my newly replaced oil all over and took the opportunity. In short, just go somewhere else. I used to like these guys, but something has definitely changed for worse. read more

I highly recommend taking your car to James Madison Shell for anything you need done on your car. I live in Maryland and drive all the way to northern Virginia for their service any time something seems to be an issue with my car. All their employees are so professional and nice and will take you SERIOUSLY. I'm a young woman and everywhere else I have ever taken my car hasn't taken me serious but the manager, mechanics and employees here give sound, honest advice and aren't just after your money. I only take my car here even over my own Jeep dealership. They even offer great deals every so often via email. Do yourself a favor and take your car here! read more

I was absolutely losing my mind because my trunk latch sensor kept going off in my Prius. I made a same-day appointment, expecting to have to pay through the nose. After only 5 mins there, Dan came out and showed me the exact issue - there was a small rock stuck in my trunk latch! Incredibly kind to boot, Dan charged me absolutely NOTHING! Better believe I'll be back for my next scheduled service. Thanks so much for everything! read more

Shout out to Hassim, the cashier! We had a flat tire and the spare wasn't working. Mechanic shop was closed but Hassim offered to help and patch up the tire! Came in clutch - thank you! read more

Had a leak in my tire. Called them up and scheduled for same day. It took them less than 30 mins to get it patched. Very reasonable price!!! Thankful that they were able to have me driving safely again!!! read more

James Madison Shell provides excellent service at a great price. I have been coming here for years and I know that my car is in good hands. I would highly recommend them for oil changes, state inspection, and seasonal check ups. read more

Best place to drop ur car off for an oil change! U can drop it off while ur at work and they'll call u when it's ready!

I've been going to the James Madison Shell for all my inspections and repairs for years and have yet to have a bad experience. The mechanics are very professional and provide quick service. read more

Late in the day. Service closed. Thankfully Hassim at Shell saved this day! Needed air in my back left tire after arriving home from a vacation. Rolled up slowly to Shell and Hassim walked out to see how I was doing with putting in air. Then he was kind enough to spray soapy water on my tire and find the problem.and then even better he was kind enough to fix the problem. Feels like an old fashioned filling station where the attendant is well trained and cares to step in and help. My lucky day. read more

DO NOT TAKE YOUR CAR To This shell gas station. I used to go There for more than 30 years and since it sold to this new owner for last 4-5 years ago they give you anything but service. Took my BMW for simple tire Instalation . Inspection was fine. But tires they damaged my Rims and stole my jack bumpers under the car on jack points which has been there since I bought the car and it was there the same morning I took my car in. So they never try to fix the damages and owner is nothing but ignorant SB so I will take the to small claim court and let you all know DO NOT GO THERE P.S Manager tried to solved issue Iam sure Iam not the only one read more

Came here for an oil change on a recommendation of a friend. I was met by a very courteous attendant and was upfront about pricing and other services! Have to remember to make an appointment next time! :) read more

Took my two cars today for the state inspection - great experience! I don't usually do the maintenance on cars and I am generally intimidated by mechanics (due to my general ignorance about cars), but this was an awesome experience! Mohammed and his whole team are professional, friendly, and fast. Can't recommend this place more. read more