Came here to get a used car inspection done, and it was a smooth process. It was fairly priced for about an hour and a half of work, and they were able to send me a digital copy of their findings complete with photos. The details that were captured in the report and accuracy were spot on and verified by my local Honda dealer when I had the same car taken in for some other work. Glad to see that I can trust a place like this to perform honest work. The waiting room had free drinks and some TV playing some Merlin car infomercials on loop, and there's a restroom. read more

Merlin Complete Auto Care - Inside - Auto Repair Near Me - Glendale Heights, Illinois

They employees turned over is HIGH. For the last year. I noticed their businesses went down hill badly . Because they cannot keep good employees, to work at that location. I took my car in for a simple inspection. The manager told me no and., that i will have to pay $135 for a inspection. I told him , that i was a regular customer and he add it to my bill when done. So i said ok. Then we left. . 15 minutes later, he called me and said . His manager, has authorized his decision, and said come back, and they will start my car inspection,. ONLY , if i could have listened to my gut feeling none of this shit, would have happens . When i got my car back after the two hours inspection. The sheet. was not what I inspected. The first thing he told me was that my car was leaking oil. . When i pulled off , and drove less than 3 blocks . I begin to smell oil. Come to find out they drain all my oil out. I am a cdl driver. And I checked my oil regularly. And there has been no oil leak to my car. I immediately call the shop and the manager just lied , so that they can get free government money and take advantage of the community cars for care programs grants. Because, their business has gone down due to neglect and poor service, bad business and maintenance. I use to come here for years when they was under a different management. PLEASE PEOPLES,,Don't bring your car here. Now i have to find someone to fixed their freaking mistake to my suv. Im reporting them to the better business bureau. Even, there latest review says that they are unprofessional after what she had experienced with her car. and they shouldn't even be allowed to work on anybody cars , and they can't be trusted. Do yourself a favor and follow your gut. read more

Came in for oil change. As I was out got told two nails in two separate tires? Said I'd take to Discount Tire just down the street. Just fill up tires. Called on way and asked which tires were pictured? Guy said they were small nails didnt need to be fixed ? Seemed sketchy as why not say that at his shop? Plus im older and 50 years never had two nails tires and in different ones? Ill never go to any Merlins again but to Valvoline . Maybe higher but honest . read more

Came in during the summer to recharge a/c, was kinda pricey $400 but my car is fairly complicated. It got rid of bad smell and ac has been working ever since with no issues. Came in today to get Catalyst Converter and sensors replaced. From the first visit the customer service was great and today was the same. He told me it would be ready by the end of the day and it was. I was worried because if the engine light didn't go away I could not pass emission test, so far so good. I drove it around for a bit and the bad small from exhaust is also MPG increased. They gave me a pass for free inspection incase the engine light comes back on and the work/parts have 2 year warranty. Pricey $1700 but had to get it done or buy a new car $40,000 plus. They saved me time and money while being professional. I recommend! read more

The fact that Merlin's GH was going to charge me DOUBLE what another local shop is charging me to replace a blower motor assembly AFTER you had already supposedly "fixed" my ac/ Hot air issue is BS!! I spent over $1600 on repairs with your location when what you originally did and it wasn't even the issue. The "owner" then called back an hour later and said they can take $60 off my bill if I did the service then since it is the "best they could do." I said no, 3rd time isn't a charm when you get BSed. Be aware!! read more

In mid-December I purchased a battery. I thought all was well (because, hey, car started!) UNTIL the next morning when my remote start didn't work. I went back to Merlin and they blamed it on my key fob. I explained I have TWO key fobs with which to start my car, and had the same results with both. I told them it was too much of a "coincidence" that my remote start won't work as soon as I get a new battery, but they disagreed and said it wasn't their doing. I went to the place that installed my remote start. They checked the battery and they tell me my BRAND "NEW" battery from Merlin is 25% depleted. So, HONESTLY - sell me a battery with a depleted charge, blame the remote start problem on me/the equipment/the other shop? Instead of wasting my time twice (now that I have to wait for a replacement battery), Merlin could have taken my concerns seriously the first time around and checked the charge of the battery they sold me. They've checked it NOW, and the two shops' sides don't add up. All I know is that my remote start problems started the day after I got this new battery. I had always raved about Merlin, but this experience was disappointing and inconvenient. They ARE getting me a new battery, so there's that. read more

Jose was great and the service techs were all great help.

I spent 1000s here The life time guarantee did nothing for me.. new brakes and rotors didnt last ( 24k warranty ) i didnt know all were bad till i changed a tire. They wanted to charge me more then other merlins and other brake places.. Even with a lifetime warranty ? 40% more.. 400k for bak brakes... Other merlins and a just tires 250 for same job. Besides their parts didn't last.. A poster on wall claimed 139 per axle including pads and rotors... Take the sign down Lost my trust and business... read more

Horrible experience. I took my car here because my engine light came on and they are close to my house. They called me after performing a diagnostic and said that they could not determine the issue, but in order to figure it out, I needed to get their 48k mile service (estimated a 1000$ job), just to see if they can find my issue. They also told me that my oil was leaking and that they performed an oil change without asking me if I wanted one. I told them no thank you, and took my car to the dealership who found the issue, fixed it for $250. Oil pressure switch change was the diagnosis. All I was left with from this place was a $200 oil change that leaked as soon I left their shop. Never again. read more

I had my first oil change here today. I walked in and was nicely greeted. My appointment was for 2pm and almost right away my vehicle was being serviced and done within 35 mins! I was only in for the basic oil change which I was informed does not include a tire pressure check so I am glad I went back inside before I left because the tire pressure was a little low on my front left tire. My car was put back inside and the air was balanced on all 4 tires. Thank you so much for taking care of me with a positive disposition and not making me feel like I was a bother. I will definitely be back from now on. I also like to add- Thank you for printing out the oil change sticker instead of writing with a pen where it will fade in 2 days like a lot of places do! read more

The service provided at this shop was exceptional! We took our car here for a second estimate feeling the first one we got from a midas shop was very over priced and probably not all nessacery ...but what do we know...we are not mechanics. The gentleman who took care of us at this Merlin shop (Hussein) was very thorough and complete in his inspection. He gave us different options to fix the problem with my car...some of it required more manual work but in return it would save us money on parts. Not only did he do a great job, but he saved us about half the amount of the original quote from the first shop. I value great customer service and now adays it's an added plus when you get a trustworthy person doing the job for you. I will surely go back for any further repairs and do highly recommend his shop. Additional note...he and his staff stayed past closing time to ensure our car would be ready. We had mentioned in conversation that the car would be driven by my son who attends college in Iowa. They got the job done and with a smile...now that's service. read more

Going into Merlins seemed like a good idea for a quick oil change. The customer service was great and felt like I would be going there on a regular basis. However, after my second oil change things turned around and one of the mechanics pointed out to change my Struts for a total of ~ $600. I took the quote and respectfully declined. A few days after that, things started to get messed up on my Transmission. I took it in again and they pointed out that they don't do transmission work but know somebody who would. Red Flag!!! I took it to my friend who looked at the fluid levels and pointed out that the transmission fluid was nearly empty and that was causing all the abnormal gear shifts and the solenoid needed to be replaced. Funny thing is that this has never happened before and I regularly check all the fluids every month. Lessen Learned if you don't take their offer to get a costly repair, things can get messed up. A word of Advice to these guys; you can make a lot more money by being honest and providing a quality service rather than siphoning off a few hundred bucks. read more

A mission statement for all businesses should be to provide service with integrity, honesty, quality, and satisfaction. This business has plateaued in all categories. Hands down, they have earned my business. I will be referring family, friends, and anyone requiring outstanding service. For those who gave bad reviews because your experience wasn't satisfactory, please give them a second chance. Mr. Simba will resolve your day and fix the sour taste in your mouth with sweetness and kindness. FYI, ask for him. Thank you for reading my review. read more

My son's car had the dragging muffler and the whole bit. They were nice as could be here and did custom work to save him money. The owner, also went out of his way to explain what was wrong and what the options were. My kid has his car fixed within 2 hours and for an extremely reasonable amount of money!! I would also like to comment on a particular one star review which is highly offensive. I am disappointed that Yelp would allow that bs online. Where's your filter now Yelp? read more

I will not be returning to this Merlin location and this is why: I scheduled an appointment 2 days in advance for a 5:00 pm oil change and tire rotation. I arrived right at 5:00 and got my car in immediately. Once the oil change was being completed, the guy at the front desk informed me that my rear brakes looked like they needed to be replaced. I knew this was something I would have to do eventually beforehand. He said he had the parts available and could get this completed before they closed at 6:00 pm. I agreed to the work and waited. A few minutes later he came back and told me that the parts they initially quoted me were not correct and they would have to use different more expensive parts, but this would not change my price. This sounded very familiar to me as they did the same thing when I had them replace my battery a few months prior. Just before 6, my car was done. I paid and went home. The next morning I left around 11:00 for a trip to Iowa. I crossed the border to Iowa and all of a sudden the car started vibrating. The first thing I thought was "oh great... is it the brakes?" I took my foot off the gas and tapped the brakes. Nothing. My foot went to the floor. No brakes. LUCKILY I was on a long empty stretch of the interstate. I can only imagine what would have happened had I not taken the day off for the IA trip and was in my normal rush hour traffic on a Friday night. I took my foot off the brake and heard a CLUNK. I then pressed the brakes again and was able to slow to a stop on the side of the interstate. I got out and saw something lying on the shoulder behind me. Walked over to it and yep... it was a brake pad. I called Merlin and they said before they would pay for any repairs I needed to have a mechanic look at the issue and verify it was a faulty installation. I got a tow truck to tow me to the nearest shop and luckily they were able to get me in right away. There, the mechanic informed me that a lot of shortcuts were made when my brakes were initially replaced. There were parts that were not cleaned and/or replaced. He showed me a part before and after he cleaned it correctly. The brake pad was not fully seated which caused it to fall off. The mechanic spoke to someone at Merlin and explained what he saw. Merlin agreed to pay for the repairs. 3 hours later I was back on the road. Yes, they handled the issue professionally, but I can not go back there and feel safe as far as my car is concerned. read more

Very nice people but rediculous pricing. They wanted almost $500 to replace a 1ft section of pipe and 2 clamps. Would love to see the parts and labor cost breakdown! Won't be back read more

Quick & low cost maintenance services. Got my work done for less than others quoted & they used quality parts. Wish they had free coffee. read more

Amazing service, amazing staff! I have been to this Merlin's before (it is my regular spot), but today the service manager Hussein went above and beyond standard customer service. I came in to have a tire replaced, and "tune up" services. He found discounts for me, and tells you what needs to be done without pressuring you. If you are loyal to this location, they are loyal to you. They have a lifelong customer here! read more

Great service and freindly staff. After walking out at pepboys it was nice to find service like this Went for an oil change. They didnt try to push me for more repairs. They have earned a new regular customer Thanks again!!! read more

The only place I take my cars for oil changes. Friendly staff, great prices and quick service. I'm always in and out with minimal wait time. They always let me know if something is wrong, but aren't pushy about it. Standard oil change is $19.99 and full synthetic is $49.99. read more

Came in today without an appointment (which I don't normally do b/c I hate waiting but I had a breath of time so I went in) usually I go to Midas b/c it's a hop and a skip away from my house but I had a coupon for Merlin so I though I would give them a try. The man behind the counter said there would be a 45min wait (I couldn't wait that long) but he said he could make an appointment for me. Ok, cool. Made appointment for same day at 4pm. Perfect b/c it would be enough time to pick up the kiddo from school and get there on time. Came in at 4pm and the same man behind the counter said they were behind and it would be 45min wait. Ok wait! Why the hell did I make an appointment then when the wait time is exactly the same when I came in at 1?! I could have just gotten it done then! I understand places get busy and backed up but again what is the point of the appointment then? The gentleman behind the counter assured me they would get to it as fast as they could. I wanted to just say forget it but my oil change light has been giving me the finger for over a week. So I decided to trust The Man Behind The Counter and wouldn't you know it the oil change only took 20 minutes! Thank you man behind the counter whose name I didn't catch because I forgot to ask.. customer service good but booking needs work. read more

Fast and the price cannot be beat in this area. Since moving to IL this is the only place I've been to for my oil changes. Regular oil change is $19..99 and synthetic is $49.99. They take appointments and even give loaner cars if need be. This location is conveniently located on the corner of North and Main/Glen Ellyn Road across from Menards and the Bowling alley, right next to the Mobil gas station. read more

So my 1st time here, the tech working on my Jeep gets oily boot prints all over my light grey floor mat. So I called them as soon as I noticed it when I got home, and all I got was a "Sorry". I would suggest going ANYWHERE else but here. Thanks, Merlin's. read more

Just had my truck in for some front end suspension parts replacements. Was expected to take 5 hours although warned it might spill over into the next day. I was told all parts needed had arrived on Wednesday. I took it in first thing Thursday as per my scheduled appointment. Turns out wrong part was ordered. Then the part didn't ship, they are closed on Sundays... didn't get my truck back until Monday evening when I got home from work. Drove it 3 miles Tuesday morning to the train station. Went to work. Came home 3 miles from the train station and was about to pull into the garage when I saw a huge wet puddle on the garage floor where the front end of the truck had been parked overnight. So I looked under the vehicle to find transmission fluid pouring out of the front (4 wheel drive) gearbox. Tried to call Merlin but it was already after 6 and they were closed. Probably still there but nobody picked up the phone. How can they have a vehicle in service for 4 days and release it to s customer with fluid pouring out the bottom! They have a tendency there to recommend service based on vehicle age and mileage without looking at their own service records to see that they had already serviced some items not long ago, probably hoping you will just accept their estimate. Be careful at this place!! read more

Merlin provides excellent service. They are very knowledgeable, friendly and very honest. I have recommended Merlin to numerous friends and they've all been very happy...Gil is the absolute best! read more

Just moved to Glendale heights and needed an oil change. I read some good reviews for this place. I walked in around 1:15 and they close at 3 on Saturdays. Another man walked in right before me also wanting an oil change so when i asked for one he said there would be at 45 min wait. I asked to possibly schedule an appointment after work on Monday cause i didn't want to wait. As i was about to drive away the clear came outside and said he talked to the manager and they will do the oil change now. It was amazing! I was able to get my oil changed and fluids topped! I was very happy with the service and all the men there seem really nice! I would go again! read more

Trustworthy repair shop, truly feel like I can trust the diagnosis of problems and cofident with quality of repair work. Same Guys have been here for years, a testament to a well run organization. read more

I've been taking my car here for a few years, mostly for the simple stuff. They seem to be honest, and usually pretty quick with their services for a reasonable price. Maybe not the cheapest around, but certainly much better priced than a dealer often is. read more

I have been coming here for years and recommend all friends and family to do the same. The work is good, no up selling and they are quick. I have come for oil changes, brakes and tires for both of our cars. Each time I come in they somehow can get to your car pretty quick so you can go back to work. read more

DON'T GO HERE!!! - If you don't believe all the other bad reviews, just read this one. I have taken my vehicle here twice and was charged over $700. To supposedly give me a 'tune up' which only consisted of new spark plugs that cost $2.99 at auto zone (same exact brand). & To fix a clicking sound that my engine makes. Nothing has been fixed although I was promised my car would be running great. They lie & pretend they're fixing your car when really nothing gets fixed. Every time I brought it they said something different was wrong with it & needed more money although nothing ever got fixed. I made a huge mistake taking my car here. And I never will again. Save your money!!! Now I have to pay another mechanic to fix what they messed up. Typical mechanic. Rip off. Nothing even gets fixed. AND I saw some bad reviews before I wrote mine and now they're gone... Kinda shady. read more

The guys at this shop have been great! #1 reason is because they didn't treat me like a "chick". It's stereotypical but it happens way too much with this industry. I brought my car in for a muffler or exhaust issue and Scott (manager??) checked it out and told me what was wrong (exhaust pipe came apart). He told me what my options were. I checked it out w my mechanic friends who said his options were legit and the pricing was actually quite fair. Three days later I brought my car back because the motor for the windshield wipers stopped working. Hussein (sp??) was very helpful with that and after assessing the problem, told me the problem and what my options were. For those two times I've dealt with them, I was very pleased. They estimated an amount of time for each repair and they were very spot on with that - time issues are very important to me! Great overall customer service, the mechanics were knowledgeable, and they were all very efficient. As much as I like them all, I really don't want to have to see them again any time soon! read more

My GMC Jimmy was having issues while I was in central Illinois, so I took it to a family shop down there and was told that it needed a front right wheel hub and brake pads and rotors in the back. (My father was a mechanic there previously, so I knew I could trust their information). I took their estimate and then went to see Hussain at Merlin's up here near home, without sharing the previous estimate and listed problems. Their mechanic test drove and checked my truck and found the same issues and even took me to look at the problems so I visually could see them. Hussain did an excellent job explaining the issues and my options. I knew I could trust him and that he was looking at it as though it was his own vehicle. (I also heard him tell a gentleman earlier that he could do the work the man thought needed to be done in his car, but he didn't want to take his money for an issue that wasn't really present!) The Jimmy repairs were rather extensive and costly, but every part and cost was listed clearly on the quote sheet, so it was easy to understand. Hussain even worked with the cost to build in an oil change to his original quote, as well as a few other perks! Merlin's gave me a ride home and then after the work was complete, they picked me up to take me back to the shop. Excellent customer service, very fair and clear prices, and my Jimmy and I are happy campers! Thank you, Hussain- Merlin's has gained a loyal customer! read more

This place is awsome. A guy named Simba is the owner and he is always nice.I have used them for oil changes, brakes and general maintenance on my 96 Corolla. The 4th oil change is always free. I definately reccomend this place . read more

My car was in dire need of a serpentine belt replacement. Merlin's pointed it out to me and I was grateful until I got the bill. They charged me $130.00 for the belt + labor. I grudgingly paid it, as I had no choice. I thought it was really high so I started to look around for the bill from my last serpentine belt replacement, which had been just 14 months prior. I found it alright, and I WAS FURIOUS! I had been charged by a local mechanic just $75.00 for the belt plus labor! Now I'm not stupid, I know prices go up but THAT MUCH??? You can buy a serpentine belt in a parts store for $25.00. I understand there is markup, but it appears that I was either charged for an incredible markup on the part or a labor rate of about $200 an hour! I wrote to Merlin's shop expressing my total infuriation and that I would never ever go back to them. A day later the owner called me to try to talk his way out of my complaint. He made an offer to refund the difference between $130.00 and $75.00, but his offer ended up being for $54.00. He made this offer several times during our conversation. I still have not received the refund. So not only did I get ripped off (probably because I'm a woman), I was lied to on top of it. My boyfriend has also been ripped off and has stopped going there. I don't know if it's the foreign mind set or what, but I will only take my vehicle to trusted, WHITE owned businesses from now on. read more

LONG overdue review! Last month was the third time I took my car in to Merlin in Glendale Heights. Every...single...employee in there was MORE than polite and understanding with me (and my budget!) every...single...time. I truly appreciate their honesty, which is a scary thing to think about getting when you're a female! I had a simple oil change one time, and a MAJOR car repair this past time. I didn't pass emissions, and did my research online with the codes that came up. ALL of the complaints from owners of the same car that I have said the repairs were $900. Hussein worked his 'magic' and my repairs were FAR less than that for the same exact thing. While in the waiting area, other customers waiting along with me sang Merlin's praises as well. I finally found an auto repair shop that I can trust and is actually enjoyable to go to! Happy customers and happy Merlin employees are fun to be around. Not only did I have a GREAT repair experience, but I had a great waiting-in-the-waiting-area one as well. Go here...I promise, you won't be sorry you did! Thanks to all the guys at Merlin! Hopefully I won't see you soon, but if I do, I KNOW that me and my car will be in EXCEPTIONAL hands. :) read more