We've been coming to John's Bascom Automotive for over 15 years and several different cars. They are reliable, trustworthy, and do great work. Mike is incredibly knowledgeable and on top of all of the details of each job. I would highly recommend this shop to anyone. read more

a terrible 5 year experience with mike. i knew mikes father who owned john's bascom automotive since i was a child. he was friends with my mother and father. our family recommended john's b.a. to our friends, family, neighbors and employees. i have always taken my nissan hardbody truck to him for all of its needs. he did an excellent job every time. that all ended as soon as his son mike took over. i took my truck to mike 5 years ago. five years he made up excuses as to why our truck was not finished. waiting for parts, can't find parts , covid stress, vacation, problems at home. the list never ended with mike. what mike never mentioned to use over those five years was that our truck (according to mike) was broken into by a homeless person. how did we find out about the break in ? the interior was covered with glass when my husband picked it up from mike. mike never called us to tell us it was broken into. mike never reported the break in to the police. mike charged us for a dashboard that was not damaged when we dropped it off 5 years earlier. it was fine when we left the truck with mike. here is the insult to injury... we dropped off our truck for new hoses and gaskets . 5 years later we have a truck that still has damages from the break in , sun roof damage, leaking sun roof, badly sun burned window trims, ugly replacement dashboard/speedometer , broken camper shell latches and carpet that smells like urine, feces and mildew. i am disgusted with mike for keeping the truck for 5 years. i am disgusted that he never reported the break in to the police and kept that information from us for a year or two. i am disgusted that he had the audacity to threaten my husband with a daily charge of $3.00 a day storage fee for having our truck on his lot waiting to be repaired when we were upset with him keeping our vehicle for 5 years. i am disgusted with all of the messages he left telling us he was fixing our truck. (i'm glad i kept all of his voicemails and texts.) mike is a liar and a terrible mechanic. mike is nothing like his father. shame on you mike ! if you leave your vehicle with john's bascom automative you are doing so at your own risk . i think i will have my truck wrapped with this yelp review and drive it like that forever. read more

I own a Toyota Prius C, took it to a Toyota dealership for oil change and was told my car needed some very expensive repairs I was told " I wouldn't drive that car to SF". I decided to get a second opinion and called this shop. Spoke with Mike, he was incredibly helpful and suggested an inspection. I brought my car, was inspected and the result? My car is fine! No need for expensive repairs. Mike was kind. Professional and most important honest! I was not only relieved but grateful and this shop got a new customer. I will never go back to Toyota dealership. Thank you Mike and team for taking care of my car, for being so accommodating and honest! I highly recommend this shop, please do not hesitate to place your call here. AAA+++ this is a trustworthy business! read more

John's Bascom Automotive serviced our numerous vehicles (family of 4) from about 2010 to 2020. I found this to be a completely trustworthy business. The manager communicated with me clearly, and I never felt like I was being overcharged or taken advantage of (I am a woman writing this review). We now live in Colorado, and the manager just sent me all of our old invoices, as we need them to have work done, as the engine is still under warranty. I am so appreciative of any business that provides trustworthy, timely, and fairly-priced service. I highly recommend. read more

I found this place on yelp and it was conveniently located right near my work so I decided to give them a shot! I called a day in advance to book an appointment for a smog check and the guy I talked to (I'm assuming it was John) was friendly. The smog check took about 25 minutes and it was around $60. I'd definitely go back because I felt that that was fair and I also like to support small businesses! read more

I got an oil change here and the guy forgot to connect my air intake . Maybe he was rusty that day but I'm not bringing my vehicle back here. read more

I've brought at least four different cars to John's regularly for the past 20 years, and have always been impressed with their work, efficiency, and honesty. On the first car I brought in 2003, they showed me that my prior mechanic hadn't effectively done certain work; in 2023, they worked on a brand-new car, doing work that the dealer recommended but wasn't able to complete. Just this past week, they quoted a reasonably big repair, but recommended I hold off since it wasn't necessary. Mike also gave me the recommendation of doing it at the dealership, if the issue turned out to be a particular type. (The dealership made no mention of it being okay to wait - they told me it needed to be done ASAP.) I'll be bringing my cars here for another 20 years at least! read more

Saved over 1k on the 65miles service and fixing the front arm bushing for my Forester. I was considering trading in and so glad that I didn't because it's working like a charm! read more

John's Bascom Automotive - Auto Repair Near Me - San Jose, California

Just called the shop and spoke to Mike (John's son) wanted to charge me $180 just to look at the car. Not an honest or nice guy in my opinion. read more

Our family (including my Grandmother) have gone to John's for over 40 years and have always been happy with both their service and attention to detail. John and his son, Mike, are honest, kind and very knowledgeable about cars. We have been recommending them for years and will continue to do so in the years to come. read more

Mike was fair and honest with his assesment of my 2016 ford escape. unfortunately the repair bill for a new transmission was much too high and i ended up buying a new car. But I highly recommend these guys. The quote could have been over $300.00 but he only charged me a little over $100.00 Like I said, fair and honest.. These days that is worth its wait in gold read more

John's Bascom Automotive did a great job on my car. I have a 2008 Mazda 3 that has had a brake issue since 2010. The dealer and other shops have replaced brake boosters, the master cylinder and various hoses with no luck. I dropped it at John's Bascom on the recommendation of my son-in-law. I was somewhat hesitant to do it as I am in the east bay and the shop is in San Jose and traffic can be a pain in the ass. I am so glad I did. Mike was able to diagnose an ABS brake management problem that nobody was able to. The car stops now exactly like it should. I could not be be happier. Thank you, Mike read more

We've been taking our vehicles to John's for years and I trust them to be honest and competent. While they may be a bit more expensive for basic services (oil changes, etc.), it's well worth the peace of mind. Mike is always pleasant to deal, is flexible about fitting us in, and I'm always confident they can diagnose and fix a problem while never gouging us on price or recommending unneeded repairs. John's is great. read more

Very professional and courteous. Took the time to explain everything and answer my questions.

I've been going to John's for a few years now. My family and friends as well. We probably have at least 8 cars/trucks serviced here. Mike is always kind and professional. He keeps us updated and always advised on our choices. Some of our cars are older models. I feel he is sincere in his work and he does look out for what's best for you and your car. HIGHLY RECOMMEND. read more

Although they weren't able to assist me with fixing my car due to more complicated car issues, they did a diagnostic on it to figure out what the problem was. John kept in touch with me about their findings, and he came to a conclusion that I needed a new fuel pump and time chain. He informed me that he couldn't perform the service to fix it at his location; however, he recommended me to VS Automotive who did a grand job of fixing my car. John also was nice enough to let us store our car there for a few days while we decided what to do and how to get there since we were carless. John was honest what needed fixing on my car. That's the most I could ask for since I am clueless about cars. read more

This a long time business that does excellent work with integrity. This is a first class business that my family has been using for over 25 years. I won't go anywhere else for auto service ! read more

I have reviewed John's before, but I am doing it again! I was sent to John's by a friend after frustration with Honda not solving an issue for me. Mike had it fixed within 48 hrs. That was in 2016. I have continued to take my car to Mike since and even consulted him prior to buying my new car to ensure I was making a good decision. I started travel nursing again recently and had Mike do a once over before leaving California to head to Ohio. He gave me his blessing and sent me on my way. 6 wks later and my car is making an awful nose. I got it on video and called and asked if I could send him the video for his recommendation. Mike let me send him the video and immediately responded with his diagnoses and suggestion to get it checked ASAP. I sure wish that meant bringing it right back to John's Automotive, but know I have Mike on my side if I need his assistance with getting my car fixed. I feel like Mike takes care of me like he would his own daughter and that means a lot to me. Thanks, Mike! read more

Everyone in my neighborhood uses John's Automotive. I am able to drop in once a month for an oil check without an appointment, and anytime feel ok asking for the air in my tires to be checked. It is easy to schedule an appointment for service and repairs. Since I live nearby, I drop off my car and they drive me home, picking me up when the car is ready. I trust this business to take care of my car and let me know if any parts need replacing before I have to deal with a breakdown. read more

Been going to Johns since I don't remember when! Always honest, always fair, always efficient! Johns retired, however, his son Mike runs the show and he's just as, if not more, awesome as his dad. If you want an honest mechanic who WILL NOT bullshit you and charge unfair prices, go to Johns! Thank you Mike, once again, for awesome service!! Worth every penny read more

I have a 2004 4runner l was considering selling it because, l believed it requires alot of repairs. Sensors light on, brakes,belt and starting issues. After taking it in l was relieved it was my battery all along. I know at times being a woman some mechanics take advantage. Not here l have been taking my car here and they are very honest and and l trust them. They have my business for life l recommend this repair shop very highly. read more

I have been taking my car here ever since I moved down to SJ a few years ago and I can't recommend them enough. They have been great at providing service for my car and haven't had a bad experience. Plus, Mike handles and answers his customers questions very well. read more

They are very friendly and helpful. My engine light went on and they performed diagnostics for about $300. Reasonable given all the work they did to diagnose the issue. They seem to be booked pretty often, so might not be the place for a quick fix. Nonetheless, many repair shops will probably be booked last minute too read more

I'm a big fan of these guys - and I've been coming here for almost 9 years now. They know what they're doing and are pretty straight forward about what you need and what you don't need. I've been to a bunch of places that try and sell you services you don't need, these guys tell it like it is. Best thing here? If you're a loyal customer - they're a loyal shop. They treat you like family, or at the very least a good friend. read more

Possibly the most honest auto repair shop in town. They always do a great job in a timely matter and do not do unneeded repairs.

Five Star Service! I brought my daughters car in with a battery draining issue and they provided excellent service. Mike kept me informed on any updates throughout the whole ordeal. read more

Wanted to give Mike and his team a big thanks for being flexible and adding me into their busy schedule. Was able to get an oil change and smog check for my car. Unfortunately they weren't able to get my car done at an expected time frame I wished for since they were down a mechanic for the week. However, they went above and beyond to make sure I was able to get my car after work and even put window washer fluid in when I never requested it. Definitely will come back to support his teams business and recommend speaking with them for help. read more

Excellent service - Mike and his team are communicative, fast and offered tips to ensure my car would continue running properly. Will come here again and would recommend. read more

Little below average. Ive seen john for maybe 3 times on a friends recommendation. He overcharges. Didnt realize this til i started asking other machanics for the same repairs he did. His response is the bullshit "Do you want quality or just cheap labor?" if he does quality work he should state why the car keeps breaking down lol. No signs that his work is any better than the score of mechanics in san jose. Can definitely find better labor and the same quality while maintaining your paycheck. Hes okay in a pinch, but id shop around for other mechanics first. read more

There is nothing that puts your mind at ease like knowing a great and trusted mechanic and auto-shop. Mike and his team are super friendly and thoroughly transparent. I wouldn't take my 2006 Nissan Xterra in to any other shop!! read more

The guy's at John's Bascom Automotive must think I'm pretty stupid.. And in this particular case they would be, uhm, not inaccurate. Because some previous work they had done had been very satisfactory, I had my car towed there after it suddenly died on me at an intersection. Also, a few days before I had noticed my fuel gauge stuck on zero, even after I had just filled it with more gallons than I knew it was possible to hold. My guess was the alternator was gone.They called the next morning and pointed out that the engine was cranking and the battery checked out so it could not be the alternator. They said the car did start and then sputtered and died. They thought it might be the fuel pump. Ugh big bucks I gulped. They called a few hours later and said I could pick up my car. They had fixed it... by putting some gas in the tank! I had run out of fuel. "Not possible!" I protested, "I filled it up two days before and had not driven more than 50 miles..." "You might have put the nozzle in the intake and forgotten to start the fuel pumping while you cleaned your windshield," they gently suggested... Oh... well, *that* would explain the 13 gallon reading at the pump, even though it had never taken more than ten gallons to fill up before. What i was seeing on the pump might have been the purchase of the previous customer. It would also explain why my gas needle was "stuck" on zero right after the fill up.. It might have been that no fill up had taken place... uhm, yes, I guess that's what *did* happen. They *could* have claimed a new fuel pump was needed and charged be big bucks to install one. I wouldn't have disputed that. But they did not. They *did* charge me $120 stupid tax for the tests they had run and the time they had wasted figgering out what was going on. Glad to pay that, rather than pay for unnecessary big expense items. If they want to laugh at me about this until my or their dying day, they are welcome to do so. They are honest people and deserve every laugh they get out of this. read more

This is the type of place that would make a person want to spend money on a new car. If you have never had a reasonably priced mechanic and came here all the time for work... well, a car payment would make more sense to you. That is not how it is supposed to work. They would create an impression that car repairs are just too expensive. Bascom simply charged about double what every mechanic I have been to owning my 1987 Sprint since 1992. Two years ago I was planning to drive my car to Portland OR. I wanted to take care of a idle issue... might be a fuel delivery issue, vacuum leak, etc. Needed to address it. I have been pretty angry about this for a while now. I finally decided to Yelp it. I must admit that just 4 years earlier I took the car in for clicking in front. They replaced my front CV joints/Axles and charged about double the going rate. I paid $420 for remanufactured axles. Yeah, I know... DUMB me. The cars was wobbling all over when I picked it up with the new axles 3 days later. They had to put another set of them in. You would think that for a $250 job (in most places) that it for almost DOUBLE they would be at least putting new ones in?? "Fool me once, fool me twice" (I digress) Well, anyway... 4 years after my gold plated Pope blessed front axles were installed... I took it in and they said it was a tune up issue. I found it odd because it had only been not even 25k since my last tune up, but I figured maybe the nearly 8 years that had gone by could be enough to advise a new tune up parts. He said the spark plug wires were the culprit to my idle dropping low. I would not be too surprised, though I was quite skeptical. I made them aware I needed it road worthy for a 700 mile road trip to my new home. Here is the kicker: "How much for the tune up?"... you know, new spark plug wires, 3 plugs (3 cylinder car), distributor cap/rotor, oil change/filter, air filter, coolant flush, adjustments...."$380" (!!!!) "How much? did you say, again??" $380 for the tune up. Yeah. Well, I was in a position, I was leaving in 4 days and wanted this idle taken care of. I was told by folks " they are expensive but did really good work". "Okay", I said. I was thinking they BETTER do some damn good work... almost $400 for an 87 Sprint to get a freakin tune up!!!!??? Last tune up I got was $190 for everything, coolant flush aside (which is a $40 job inc fluids often times at any local indie joint...Bascom charged $60 for this alone). That $190 tune up was T & T Auto on San Jose Ave. I thought that was pretty average. That kept me going back to T &T, for many yrs, telling friends to check them out. Charge a decent price and you will have a customer for life. Do good work and provide good prices... they will tell friends and you will have even more money coming in. Charge a lot, likely they will come recommended w/ a "but they are pricey" disclosure...do bad work then and charge a king's ransom while providing inconsistent repairs then . . . well, let's just say I dropped my 380 bucks on a tune up to resolve a dropping idle I learned to say not so nice things about them after this repair incident. Did not work. I drove to PDX, OR. In about 100 miles the idle came right on back down again when I 1st reached a stop for gas. I was ticked. Thanks. I obviously cannot travel over 600 miles to to you again to take care of a faulty diagnosis and repair job. I still visit the bay area often. Friends have asked where to go for repairs. My response? "Just don't go to Bascom... expensive, and they do not always repair cars well. Check out T & T. Check out ANY-BODY... just not Bascom." and I tell them about both repair incidences. This is not the kind of advertising businesses want. Yes folks: I spent nearly $800 for a tune up and front axles for a 87 Sprint Turbo. That should say enough about how much they are over priced. read more

I trusted the yelp reviews and decided I'd go get my oil change done at this shop. What a horrible decision! I went by on Friday 9/12 at around 12:45pm and the guys said it would be about 2 hours before they could fit me in. They asked if I wanted to make an "appointment" for Saturday (today). I almost said no, since there are tons of other places to go for an oil change that would have time that day (Friday). BUT since the yelp reviews were so good I figured, hey why not - so the guys took my name but didn't tell me what time I should be there. I asked what time I needed to come in - they said "Anytime 8am-4pm, we're open." That seemed odd to have an appointment for no particular time - but whatever, I did ask to verify. So, I show up this morning - Saturday around 10am - and the SAME guys tell me - "We don't have any time for oil changes today, do you want make an appointment to come back next Saturday?" !!!?!?!?!?!??????!?!?!?!!!!!! WTH?!!!!!?????!!!!!!!?!?!?!?!?!?!!! I simply said no thanks and left to find another shop asap. Please think long and hard about whether you'd like to tempt wasting your time before you visit this place. I will never be back because of the extremely poor, rude and unprofessional service I experienced at this shop. Not recommended. read more

Walked in to ask about a smog and possibly, if failed, an adjustment, or full carb rebuild. The owner said "I could drop off my vehicle if I didn't mind leaving it a couple of days till they could get to it". I said okay. Two hours later I dropped it off (Tuesday 2pm). Friday (three days later) I stopped in to see what was coming along. That's when I met the owner's creepy son. Pretty nasty talker - real ballbag. He tells me, he wanted to talk to me about what was needed. I asked were the work order had gone? (It was written out, and I was given the copy.) He then struggled with this real big difficulty but finally managed to get the work order out and read it. Then he said I was never told the vehicle would be seen in a couple days. WTF? Then he said that the work would be started no sooner than a couple of weeks or more - he wasn't sure? This is the second time in a few years I come to this service station and get a needless run around "burn". That last time I had a tow drop my car there and then the run around "burn" was too much for me to endure, so I had to re-tow the car a second time somewhere else, of course for a repeat fee. These guys are one day going to get someone so angry that they get a into a physical altercation. (Not me though just to be clear. I'm fully done there!) That ___hole son and his dad's _ucked up shop will not be seeing me ever again, nor should they see you. Your mind, time, and money are terrible thing to waste! By the way, the next service center I went to made a better start on the job, but at the end they robbed me. They were still trying to drain my wallet when a mechanic friend reviewed the goings on, and suggested that I flee. When my warranty period is exhausted there I will be posting them here on Yelp too. read more

I passed John's Bascom Automotive on my way to work when I happened to be in need of a place to do a Smog Check. I saw the signage out front and with the close proximity to work I decided I would give it a try. There were many cars outside waiting to be looked at, so I assumed it was a good place. Yelp definitely solidified my decision. I was able to call when I got to work and schedule an appointment for 2 hours later. John's son, Mike, was very friendly and easy to talk to. As a new to the area resident, I will definitely go back to John's for more service work done by nice, reliable people. It's also very nice that it is within walking distance of my office, so I can drop it off during the day. read more

EXPENSIVE! i have received full synthetic oil changes with tire rotations for $70. they charge $115 for the same service. WOW. i don't even want to ask what a new battery and sparks would cost. read more

I love how friendly and helpful Mike and his team are. Thanks guys for always making me feel safe in my cars...you guys rock, Happy Thanksgiving! read more

First these guys, being professionals in the Bay Area, are somewhat expensive. However they are definitely not unreasonable and they do a very good job. read more

A neighborhood institution. Effective, hard working mechanic you can trust to give you an honest answer, even if it is not the news you want to hear. I've worked nearby for some 20 years, and folks always speak highly of the corner shop. Reliable and trustworthy. read more

It is so easy to be ripped off and taken advantage of by an auto mechanic or garage when you don't know the first thing about cars and how they work. They get this at John's and they understand that the best way to insure that they stay in business is to give people good service at fair prices with no bullshit. My family and i have been getting our cars serviced by John since he operated a Chevron station across the street. These people know cars and the don't try to take advantage of you. They tale a lot of time to explain things to you and make sure you understand what your problem is. And, they stand behind their work. Can't really say much better about any kind of business than that. read more