Best shop in town! People ask so much of folks in the trades without realizing what goes into running a business like this. These folks are stellar read more

ME Gene Johnson Garage - Wipers - Auto Repair Near Me - Austin, Texas

Nightmare experience. Avoid like the plague. I took my car here for the first time because it was close by. I asked them to change the battery, and asked them 1) how long it would take, and 2) how much it was. Tom told me that they'd let me know and I could take a seat. 45 minutes later, I still have neither question answered, and I'm sitting right in front of him, so I decide to go home and wait. After an hour and a half of waiting at home, I finally called a Lexus dealership, got a quote, and made a reservation for later in the day with a precise time window, all within five minutes. Almost three hours after I had first gotten to Gene Johnson, Tom calls me and tells me I also need an oil change (the sticker says I'm 1,400 miles away from an oil change) and that it will be $500 all in. When I say I just got one, he drops it to $400 for the battery change, which is $60 more than the Lexus dealership quoted me. I decided I wasn't happy with the experience and let him know I'd go get my car. When I get there, Tom has the audacity to tell me I have a $69 bill for doing diagnostics that I never asked for. I told him I never asked for that and refused the bill. Just a nightmare. Seriously, avoid this place. read more

Amazinnng service! We have had a streak of bad luck with our old Volvo and have had to come in for various issues the past few months . They are on a first come first serve basis. Always friendly , work pretty quickly and fair with prices . I never feel like we're getting a bad deal . Most recently we were rear ended and these amazing guys helped make sure we were safe enough to drive our car until we could get a rental. Will be coming here whenever we have an issue. read more

Read all the great reviews here and so I brought my car here to get a quote on a job. Came right before closing and the guy told me to email the info and they'd price it out. I did so and didn't hear back from them, so I decided to go back into the shop. the next day. Spoke to the guy that writes the quotes and he said he got my email but didn't know the VIN so I guess he just completely ignored the request for a quote? No email back asking me for specifics or a call? Umm, ok. So I gave him all of the info he asked for and he said he'd call me the next day with a quote. He never called. Brought my car to a different shop who communicates better. I'm sure they do good work here, but I don't live close enough to pop in every time I need to know what's going on with my car. They lost my business. read more

Won't find anyone better love this place, these guys know what they are doing won't take my car anywhere else

Not the place it used to be. Have been going here for a long time but Tom seems to be around less and it's showing. Front office seems to have different people every time. Twice they quoted one thing but when it came time to pay there were charges that weren't approved. One guy fixed it, another guy didn't. They are also now doing that shady garage thing where you take it in for one thing but they are mostly focused on the list of other things you should get done. Not a bad place...yet read more

I went in for a vehicle inspection, and they had me in-and-out in fifteen minutes. That alone is fantastic, but not why I'm giving them a five-star review. When I went out to my truck that morning, my battery was dead (ah, the Texas summers... so wonderful on batteries). I got it jumped, drove over, and started talking to the mechanics; they told me that if I replaced the battery, the computer in the truck would lose its data, and I'd have to drive another 50-75 miles for it to gather enough data to try the inspection. Brilliant; I'd never heard that before. So we got it restarted, they did the inspection, and all was good. We talked batteries and options - they didn't have the one I needed in stock, but agreed with my views on Interstate Batteries - and then helped me jump it again when the mechanic inspecting it (who didn't know about the battery issue) turned the key off. They were friendly and helpful, and I'd go back to them again if I needed help. read more

I have been going here for my Mini Cooper for 13yrs. Tom and the guys are great. Reliable and all work done well. If something wasn't quite right they will make sure it's right without extra charge. I would highly recommend. It's a shame they don't do inspections anymore. The alternative next door for inspections is very bad. read more

This is the only place that we will take our cars to change oil. Reliable and good service.

Here is a picture of my bill. My 2006 Toyota Highlander hybrid needed a mass airflow meter replaced. The cost is double what the replacement should be. Look it up if you don't believe me. I did. When asked why it was so much they said they "only buy the best parts." Their "best part" cost $69 more than the part Toyota sells on their website. Told them on the phone it was the mass airflow meter because I had it diagnosed beforehand. According to this bill, they ran a diagnostic on just the airflow meter. I don't know what device does that. Yet, when asked for the full diagnostic they didn't have one. I'm a single woman. Tom has charged two male friends nothing for repairs on their vehicles twice each. Men I referred to the shop. I have been over five times myself and have been charged an average of $500 a trip. There are other reviews by women who have said this. Do not go here if you are a single woman. This man is a misogynist who charges women double to give men their repairs for free. Take a look for yourself. The bill is what it is. read more

ME Gene Johnson Garage - My bill - Auto Repair Near Me - Austin, Texas

After getting the runaround from other auto places just to get an inspection, I found M.E. Gene's online and headed over there. They were really nice and I got my car inspected plus an oil change in less than 20 minutes!! I could see both dudes working on my car simultaneously from the waiting area so they're being totally transparent about their work. I'm for sure going to return and I've already sent them business. Plus they're super cute. I mean, super nice! Auto correct. read more

I won't take my car anywhere else in Austin! They're efficient, friendly and very communicative! I've been numerous times and it's always a positive experience. Highly recommend :) Thanks guys! read more

There is more Baba and the gang told me to ditch the Beemer. I did in 2019. Got a 2017 Mazda CX-5 GT. At there suggestion to only by Honda, Toyota or Mazda. I now rarely see them because this is such a great car. However I had a finder bender a few months ago. They recommended Quality Auto Body. Thank god I know these folks. They were the best. read more

They replaced my hubs and tie rods (390,287 miles) on my 2003 F250 with the 7.3liter Diesel engine. Fantastic work and excellent prices. Wonderful service professionals and everyone is very kind and courteous. I'm a customer for life!!! Do yourself a favor and go see Pops in Marble Falls, TX for all your repair needs and oil changes. My truck drives like new again!!! read more

I've been going to Gene Johnson for awhile now and my cousin used to work there, my papa also frequented there too. So even if I wasn't getting work done, I was passing by. Everyone is always so friendly and helpful. I took my car to Manny for an inspection and he let me know that my engine light had popped on and I was in need of a new catalytic converter. Tom gave me a referral to a guy and I got it all squared away. I took my car back to gene Johnson to get a new AC compressor and they got me all squared away, did my oil, and did my inspection all in the same day. I'm always so happy with my service every time I leave. I see why my cousin Robert loved the place so much. It really has special people and special service. Tom and bubba, keep up the great work! If you want reliable service please visit my friends at Gene Johnson. They will take care of you. read more

The fact that this repair shop hasn't been gobbled up by Austin's insatiable growth is the first indication that they are doing something right. A step back in time where you immediately know that the guy you're talking to behind the counter has hands on experience and the common goal is to get you back on the road as soon as possible. Everyone in the shop shows some hustle, they are extremely polite, never pushy. Starting with just inspections I eventually moved our company's fleet repairs to them exclusively not only because of the quality of their work but also because as a female operations manager they don't dumb down or try to mansplain things to me when I have questions, as I have experienced in many repair shops and dealerships. I have never witnessed them doing it to other customers either - men or women. I feel like we work together to come up with the most economical and efficient solution for the issue at hand. Their prices are extremely competitive but what keeps me coming back is the quick turn times and the fact I haven't had recurring issues with their repairs. They don't push up-sells or unnecessary repairs but have brought to my attention details like the registration is coming due, would I like to go ahead and take care of the inspection while they have the car? It's that attention to detail is a huge savings to our company because it minimizes vehicle downtime. We are hard on our fleet and they keep us running which is invaluable to our operation. read more

Oh my goodness, I needed an oil change.. I was amazed by the quick and Friendly service.. I was in and out in 10 minutes... WAY TO GO TEAM. I will be back forsure. sr read more

These guys gave me a much more detailed and accurate diagnosis than the Lexus dealership! It's obvious they know what they are doing and care about their customers. These guys are seasoned experts that are not afraid to work on older vehicles with esoteric issues. I would certainly recommend them to friends and family! read more

My mechanic who took such good care of me for over a decade finally retired and he recommended this shop! I can see why he sent me there and had such a great experience with these guys. Thank you Bubba and to the rest! Do yourself a favor and don't look anywhere else! read more

Great place to get your vehicle repaired quick and at a reasonable price. Great personal service

I went here for an oil change from a recommendation from a friend, and I was very satisfied with the results. I love my usual auto shop, but oil changes tend to take a long time even with an appointment. I needed something fast and this is what I got here. The oil change was about $20 more than the place I normally get it done, but the price was made up by only having to wait 30 minutes from the time I got there to the time I walked out with a completed oil change! All of the staff was also very friendly and helpful. I would definitely recommend to anyone who needs a quick oil change. read more

All joking below aside, these guys are GREAT and HONEST. When my Honda had this mysterious starting problem, they were great in trying to figure out the issue. They've worked on my car when I was so busy I had to leave it there with a post-it note after hours. They've worked on our Scout too and have recommended other great places when it's been needed. I can't say enough great things about them... These guys had just done brake work on my boyfriend's Land Rover (which was much, much less than what he was quoted at the dealer--surprise!) so when I ran over a screw the size of Canadialand the other day, I came straight here right away. What a delight! Not only did they fix my tire immediately, I waited outside and had the best convo i've had with a stranger in a long time: New BFF: How you doing today? Me: Great, you? New BFF: Man, I hate President Bush. Me: Ya, I hate that mofo too. Totally ready for a new prez. New BFF: Me too! But seriously, what the eff is wrong with John McCain's face? Me: Skin cancer, I think. My dad nearly died from melanoma but his shit did NOT look like that. New BFF: Shit, skin cancer?! Me: Yep. I've got some sunblock in my car, you want some? read more

My sister introduced me to Gene Johnson's Garage several years ago and they've been nothing but great and honest people ever since. As you know, it can be tricky finding a good, trustworthy and reliable auto mechanic, but these guys are honest and minus the sugar coat and bologna. The main two gentlemen I've dealt with are Bubba and Tommy, and they've always been very attentive and responsive. There have been many instances where I (or someone I know) have compared estimates (quotes) and Gene's always comes in the at the best. What's also great is that these guys are honest and tell you how what's involved and have been able to break down a complicated job or bill in an itemized fashion so you understand where your money is being spent. They've helped many of my friends who were in a bind, or who thought that the bill would be double than what they charged. Bubba and Tommy provide great quality and trustworthy service that will leave you satisfied and recommending them to everyone you know. read more

These guys have always been there for my mom and me! After years of service they always ask how my family is doing! They are friendly honest hardworking and just over all good people. Highly recommended!!! read more

I have been searching for this type of repair place for years. Finally! The service was impeccable, the repairs were DONE. Drove my old truck off the lot with no qualms whatsoever! I sat in the receiving area for a while before my ride got there. Efficient, friendly, business minded people who got the job done, owned the repairs that came back and willingly said, we will take care of that. I learned all that in just a little while. Bubba, you are on my Christmas list! Thank you! read more

When we moved to Austin I needed a place to care for my vehicles. I called AAA for recommendations. I wanted a shop to care for all of my vehicles as Village Automotive did in Westlake Village, CA. for the past 20 years. I needed an oil change, tire rotation and belts, hose, fluids and brake wear check. I took it in and dropped it off. I got back and my bill was $187.00 Normally in LA. it runs about $100. I paid it, I will never go back and I'm calling AAA. read more

These people know what they are doing. I was in and out in 7 minutes. Fastest oil change in history. Got to love this kind of efficiency with out hectic lives. read more

We were traveling through Austin in our Solis Winnebago and needed a quick oil change and tire rotation. When we reached out, Mason was super helpful and they took us in right away! All around we had an amazing experience and highly recommend this place! read more

I called in when my traverse was hit and not running, no other mechanics local would take time to look at it, i am glad I found this place it was towed to the garage and repaired by the next day!! read more

I've only ever been here twice, and both times it has been to get my car inspected, but the guys working here as sweet as pie and crazy fast. The last time I was here, I did wait 45 minutes to get my car inspected, but that's my fault for going on the last day of the month and there were several people ahead of me. They still got everybody taken care of wicked fast, though, in addition to taking care of lots of other issues for other customers. I was impressed. I really can't stress how nice they are here - everybody I've interacted with has been genuinely friendly, which really goes a long way these days. The waiting area is a little small, so it can get cramped when they're busy, but there's additional seating outside, too. I'll keep coming back here for the exceptional customer service and lightning fast inspections. ME Gene Johnson just can't be beat. read more

They got us in on 3 hrs notice to do a thorough prepurchase inspection, after we had called several mechanics who needed a day or even two weeks' notice. They test drove the car & walked through a lengthy checklist, and explained everything. Very reasonable price too. We were able to buy the car with confidence and you never know, but so far so good with the car! We are very lucky they made space for us. read more

I've been going to these guys for years. I know they will be honest with me. I've taken my car in twice, and they couldn't find the issue. They didn't charge me and advised me to come back in when it acted up again. I know for a fact that many less honest mechanics would magically find a problem that wasn't even there to get money out of you. Not these guys. When the car did indeed act up again, I brought it back, and they fixed it the same day. read more

This is the only place I take my car, it's where I send all my friends and it's where I send my own mom. They've taken care of my family since I was in college. The nicest, most honest and most reliable mechanics ever. Bubba, Tommy and the crew are true blue. read more

Tiny bit of back-story first. I've lived in DC and NYC, so it wasn't until I was 30 that I learned to drive (badly). And my car is still a mystery to me, albeit one I'm trying to solve. These guys make it less scary. I've had three car-related meltdowns of various degrees and they have always been fast, professional and non-judgmental. I mean, I look like a dumb girl, you could easily lie to me and price gouge me but so far as I'm aware they haven't. All the stereotypes of mechanics taking advantage of you don't seem to apply. Plus, my car still works and by all logic it probably shouldn't. Highly, highly recommended. read more

My car had problems and was dying faster than a ::insert comical example of thing that dies:: Gene Johnson rigged my shit with new ignition wires and platinum spark plugs. Dropped the car off at 1, they had a diagnosis by 3, and I had a car that doesn't die by 5. Now, I drive a pimp-as-fuck, multi-tone 92 Camry with laser Godzilla rims, rotating disco balls, and external JATO rocket boosters, so you can imagine that I was quite relieved to get "my baby" back on the same day. Anyway, Gene Johnson did solid work in record time, and they didn't try to sell me any magical nimbus weasels, just the bare minimum needed to fix "my baby". The only downside is that Gene Johnson charged ~150 for what probably amounted to, at most, an hour of labor. But then again so does every other mechanic. If you want it done right, you pay out the ass. (Or "through the ass" or whatever the expression is... basically some spatiotemporal relation to the ass). read more

I took my car in to fix a basic part for my car because the check engine light was on, which I already purchased and did a diagnostic on. They told me they installed it about 2 hours later only for the light to come back on two days later. After another diagnostic told me the same problem was occurring they offered for me to do a diagnostic with them for $120. Save your money and take your business elsewhere!!! read more

It was the hottest day on record this year. I found a sweet parking spot right before the elite event. Turned off my car. Started to get boxes out... when a loud pop noise happened and liquid started pouring out of the front of my car. Pink and clear liquid. Could there have been a gremlin under there? No. Just a busted radiator. Just what I need... a busted radiator right before an event and right before payday. So I had my car towed to ME Gene Johnson based on Yelp reviews. The tow truck dropped it off and I headed over there in the morning. The service wasn't as friendly as I'd prefer (but then I'm usually trying to charm the hell out of mechanics so I can get a better deal.) They quoted me a relatively fair price. I found two places that were cheaper by $30 and $70 respectively but that would have required getting yet another tow. They did the work quickly (3 hours) and my car seems to be running well. Sayanora $400, hello running car. read more

Be careful, this garage is MUCH more expensive than other places. Additionally, they charge a $69 diagnostic fee which doesn't apply towards the cost of repair even if you get the repair done there. Taking an extra 15 minutes to compare prices with other garages that were recommended on Yelp ended up saving me hundreds of dollars. I used to always take my car to Gene Johnson because they were recommended by my friend and are really close to my house. However, I won't be going back after my last 3 experiences with them: 1. When preparing for a road trip from Austin to Key West, I paid Gene Johnson about $70 to perform a "trip check" on my car, only to discover later when I got a flat tire that they failed to confirm whether my spare tire was aired up - it was completely flat. I feel this shouldn't have been overlooked during my $70 "trip check." 2. I paid a $69 diagnostic fee to get confirmation that my AC compressor needed to be replaced. Then I was quoted $1500 for an AC compressor replacement. Even if I decided to use Gene Johnson to replace the AC compressor, the $69 diagnostic fee would still be charged on top the $1500. I made some calls to other garages, and was quoted $1100 by Dealership Alternative and $900 by Yost II for the same repair. Additionally, both Dealership Alternative and Yost II informed me their policy is to waive the diagnostic fee if the customer decides to get the repair done at their shop. 3. When I dropped my car off to get my AC compressor diagnosed, I also had Gene Johnson perform a state inspection on my car. When I picked up my car after hours (I paid with a credit card via the phone earlier in the day), my check engine light was on, and I discovered my car had been driven about 20 miles during its stay at Gene Johnson during the day. read more

8:30am: *Brrr! Brrr-- "Yello!" "Yes, I'll be needing an inspection and wanted to know how long is the wait right now..." "No wait right now, but we'll get a line going quick, within the next half hour." "Great, I'll bring it in soon, then." 9:05am: "I'll need an inspection" "Now fill out this form, and if you can show me proof of car insurance, we'll get started." I sit down at their indoor bench, and flip open a book. What I'm reading is some pretty scandalous fiction, and plenty enthralling (Yelptastic Voyagers I'm looking at you), but I still listen in on conversations between customers and the employees - surveying customer service is a big part of Yelping. So I do it slyly. These are the comments that struck me as beyond normal customer expectations: - "Leroy, this lady needs a ride to Highland Mall while her car's here, can you give her a lift?" "Sure thing." *Turning to woman* " Hop in, we gotta get to Highland soon. J'mon!" - He said J'mon. 9:20am: *Woman opens door leading to back garage & turns to me* "All is fine except your right turn light. We can replace it for about $7.50." "Yes, that's perfect. Thanks" 9:30am: The same woman calls me around to where she pulls my car out. Stepping out the driver's side, she gives me a smile, a wave, and sends me and my Jeep on our way, complete with the new replaced inspection sticker. 15 minute wait for Inspector Gadget, DURING peak morning hours? Go-Go Gene Johnson! read more

I just left their garage and I'm completely exacerbated by my experience there. They did a 40 minute repair and charged me two hours of work because I asked for the mechanic to hook the VeDis2 up for me so I could get one number off of it. All the mechanic did was find the computer and plug it in. I actually used it to find the number. That cost me $90. Tom, who runs the garage gave me a pedantic doctor analogy. I'm just flabbergasted. Rude, incredibly expensive, and unhelpful. I would recommend you call around before visiting these con artists. read more