I have always been an advocate for third-party mechanics with a good reputation versus chain stores or dealers for auto repairs. Lam's is an example of one of these mom and pop owned shops with a highly seasoned mechanic and offers solid customer service. They rely on repeat and referral business, while not being not commission driven, and so they won't try to upsell you on things you don't need. Anything Lam finds to be a potential issue, he spends time to show and explain to you why it may need repairing. That is a sign of a good mechanic - the opposite would be a random Jiffy Lube kid telling you your transmission is busted and needs a $1000 repair, or that all of your air filters are dirty (while they show you a random old dirty filter that's not even from your car).
Repairs that Lam has done for our family including replacing brake rotors, pads, struts/mounts, shocks, timing belt & water pump, radiator, transmission/oil/brake/power steering fluid changes, power steering pump, valve cover gasket, PCV valve.
Lastly, because I have used Lam as a primary mechanic for about 10 years, starting with my first car - a 1997 Acura Integra to my next two - 2004 Civic and 2007 RAV4, I have never had any major issues or surprise repairs - Lam has certainly identified potential issues and things to consider replacing within xyz miles but his labor pricing is VERY fair and he allows customers to bring their own parts (just be sure they are 100% compatible with your exact model).
Highly recommended! read more