Mike is the best! He's been helping me with the repair and upkeep of my various SUVs for almost two decades now. He always tells me straight up and honestly what work needs to be done and what can wait. One time he even helped my daughter and I change two of her tires out which were apparently bald, by calling in a favor to the tire place across the street which was about to close. He told us it wouldn't be safe to drive and then figured out a way to get us home quickly and safe! SO grateful. I have also called him before each car purchase I've made over the years and he always gives me the best advice. I trust him wholeheartedly with his advice and the care he takes repairing our cars. Thanks Mike and team!! :) read more

Mike is the best automotive repair I've ever had. Sincerely, Joe. PS. All of his help are greatly appreciated!

I wasn't upset, but the interaction was a turnoff. I called for a quote and was told, "We don't give quotes unless we've worked on your vehicle." I understand some repairs need an inspection, but the response felt dismissive while I was simply shopping around. I'll be taking my business elsewhere. Has anyone else had a similar experience? read more

What a pleasant experience! I had to take a road trip to Fairfield, and wouldn't you know it was raining--windshield wipers were suddenly...squeaking. With each movement. The ones I had gotten just a short while ago from a local auto supplier--not Oliver's. My mom patronizes and loves this service business, so I took a chance they could at least diagnose what to do to solve the squeaks. I realized I did *not* want to hear that noise every time the wipers moved for the hour trip to Fairfield and another hour back. Not only did they realize I needed new wiper blades, but had my exact type in stock. Impressive. They installed them for me, and even graciously applied RainX. Both changes fixed the squeak. And I recall paying more at that other place than what Oliver's charged me. All three employees were friendly, smiling, and engaging in chat while doing their part. When I went to pay, the cashier already had the invoice printed. It literally was a minute after I got there. Thank you, team. Not only did you rectify the issue--and expediently, but also I was on my way without making me late to my destination. read more

Wow! Just had my first experience at Oliver and it was incredible. My son's car needed work fast because he was home from college for the weekend, and needed to drive back in said car. On a Thursday night, Mike said that he could check it out Friday morning. We brought the car in and two hours later, he diagnosed the problem (tires and alignment) and suggested where to go for the repair as they don't do tires. I thanked him for his advice, which I took, and went to pay, and was told, "don't worry about it!" No charge! I will definitely be back and recommend Mike and his team! read more

Mike is the best! It is so hard to find a mechanic who is honest and thorough but look no more! He has gone above and beyond for our work trucks. Just don't call the office obsessively, be patient and he will get you an update usually within 48 hours. When the dealership tried to rip us off for $1900, (after they had to replace a part for free under warranty), they definitely tried to make their money somehow. Thankfully I knew to take our work truck back to Mike and found that the dealer's recommended repairs weren't actually needed or affecting the issues we were having with the truck. If you want a mechanic with the utmost integrity and who takes pride in their work, look no further. Thank you Oliver's!! read more

We want to be new customers, but it has been 3 days to get a quote on changing spark plugs on Jeep Grand Cherokee. Still no quote so may have to consider moving on to another recommendation read more

I made a normal service appointment a week prior for a trip and the receptionist failed to let me know they only do drop offs from 7am-8am so I could not take my car there after showing up. I even asked what time to bring my car in and she said anytime within work hours(7-5:30). This was poor communication that was easily avoidable and would not recommend giving this place business. read more

I called in the morning and sent a video by email with the noise my truck was making. They called me back right away & let me know what was wrong with my truck. They said they were extremely busy but that I could have my truck towed there. I dropped off the truck expecting to leave it there for several days. They called me back the next morning saying that they had completed the repair. I couldn't be happier with the service I received there! read more

Let's see, I realized the last time I wrote about Oliver Automotive was in 2011. Well, fast forward to 2024, we still and will ALWAYS take our cars to Mike Oliver (the owner, of course). He and his crew, and Tammy (who works the front desk) are the BEST! Great customer service, reasonably priced, and Mike always delivers on his promise to "fix" our cars, and he always does a GREAT job! In most instances, going above and beyond. Love Oliver Automotive! Next time you're having car issues, take it to Mike. You will not regret it!! Just a heads-up. He gets booked at least 2-3 weeks out, so be sure to call for an appointment. read more

What can I say. Mike and Tammy are wonderful, great customer service, knowledgeable and professional people. I have a great Dentist, Lawyer, Banker and local Grocer and NOW MY automotive place. read more

Expect to make an appointment for your car, but he will get to it and he's an honest guy

I had a silly issue with my car that I couldn't do myself. I called Oliver Auto and they told me to come on over. The very competent and friendly Mike stopped what he was doing to help me out. It took him 10 minutes and I was back on the road. I've gotta say that the customer service here is welcoming, honest, and to-the-point. I am SO grateful for Mike and this shop! I HIGHLY recommend them! read more

Ok so I can't say that I've had any actual work done on my car by them, but the customer service I have received will have me going to them the next time my car acts up. I was sent over by Big O Tires across the street to see why I had three lights going off simultaneously. Mike was friendly, squeezed me in - tested my car for codes and gave me the solution (turned out I had left my gas cap off and that's what caused it). He refused payment from me when offered. It happened again recently (gas cap on but not screwed on all the way this time) - I called and the very sweet front desk woman told me they didn't have any openings but if it was still happening to give a call in the morning and they'd try to squeeze me in. I called early, and before they even opened Mike called me back, troubleshooted saying coming in wasn't necessary and problem should resolve on its own but if it doesn't to give them a call. Friendly, honest mechanics like this makes it a whole lot less intimidating to bring my car in. I will definitely be going here from now on. read more

Oliver Automotive is hands down the best mechanic in the Bay Area. They go above and beyond to exceed customer expectations. Mike is knowledgeable, honest, efficient, kind and reasonable. Their staff is absolutely amazing. My family has taken their cars here for years. They are trustworthy, which is the most important characteristic for a mechanic. They always give you an honest evaluation, and work with you so that you can make the best decisions when it comes to the service of your car. They don't try to sell you on services you don't need, which as a woman, I really appreciate it. Mike and his team take the time to explain the services needed and make sure that you are informed every step of the way. We are so grateful to Mike and the whole team at Oliver Automotive. They are such a wonderful resource for all things automotive. Novato is very lucky to have them. read more

Have used this business for a few years and have been very happy with Mike and his staff. I understand why people come from other counties for his opinions and repairs. in a world that is largely on rote, and no longer thinking, it is a very welcome experience to deal with Mike, who thinks, listens, draws from his expertise and engages all that with his customers needs. he's very smart too...... not to overlook that important factor. If you use his services, you will be informed, treated respectfully, and your issue will be resolved by a competent person. Fees are reasonable and competitive . More importantly, you leave knowing your car IS FIXED. read more

Great service I brought my vehicle into Oliver's another mechanic told me I needed a catholic converter. Mike got into my vehicle started it up told me I was getting to much air in the engine, Sent me to a different mechanic all I needed was a soldering job. Oliver's is honest, trustworthy and fair. Have brought my vehicle in for service and repairs. I'm so happy with the service I received and the attitude of employees and Mike! read more

Mike and his team were amazing! A bit of an odd gremlin has popped up in our old Mustang and after no luck with the dealership a neighbor recommended we bring it to Mike. Mike really took the time to investigate the issue and communicated very well the entire way. He even took time out of his schedule to drive with my husband to see if they could replicate the issue. Mike and his team took some proactive steps to check some sensors and various things to try to rule out the cause and help ensure the gremlin doesn't pop up again. From the ease of getting an appointment to the quick action and awesome communication, we will be going to Oliver automotive again! read more

Honesty, trustworthy, and efficient service - everything I look for in a business. I found that the car we acquired was serviced by Oliver Automotive, so took it here to get an oil change and the lowdown. Not only did they give me a thorough checklist, but they were brutally honest and helped me make a decision that I ended up following and very glad I did. They could have easily advised me the opposite to make a couple of bucks, but that's how I knew they were honest. read more

This place is GREAT. Honest mechanic! Very hard to find one. Highly recommended!!! Had an issue with my car and issue was resolved quickly.

Horrible. Mike seems emotionally unstable and will scream at his customers because of his own problems. He claimed to fix my subframe, but left the broken bushing control arms on the car (among other things). I paid over $7k for a car that I had to immediately take to another mechanic. He "fired" me mid work because he "Suddenly" said I had a transmission problem and that I would blame him for it. NOTE: At the point he said this he had my car in his shop for over six weeks, claimed to have gone over it and repaired it. Again - unstable. Unreliable. Unbalanced. Don't go here. read more

Totally pleased with the work done at Oliver Automotive. Mike, the owner, is honest and dependable. My car hadn't been working for several months. Mike fixed it in a day. I would definitely recommend his service. read more

I've been at Olivers a few times now and these guys are great. So glad I found a local place that offers quality repairs and will give great advice. I got fed up taking my trucks to the dealers just so they can charge a fortune, hold on to you vehicle for days and still mess things up. This won't happen at Olivers, straight talking and no messing about. read more

When I moved to Novato from SF I was reluctant to change car mechanics. I'm so glad I did & wish I had sooner. Mike, the owner, is simply the best! I found him to be so responsive from a scheduling perspective, trustworthy & great value. Thank you Mike for taking such good care of my Audi Q5! read more

Praise Jesus, hallelujah for answered prayers! It's been a challenging few months in terms of unexpected challenges/expenses coming out of the woodworks. Our car had a major power steering fluid leak situation caused by a broken power steering hose and Mike, the owner, and his team of angels were able to get it fixed! From the 1st moment I called this place, after Oliver Automotive was highly recommended by a dear trusted friend and also seeing all of the stellar reviews online, i was extremely blessed because Mike himself picked up the phone. I spoke to Mike about my situation esp since both my husband and I have only this one car that we both share, and Mike accommodated me by having me drive over right away so that at least he could do an initial exam. Thx u Mike and team for going above and beyond in providing best-in-class service so that we can pick up our car one day later since we only have one car that we're sharing! While I was waiting while Mike was doing the initial exam, I had a chance to talk to some of his wonderful staff-Tammy and David! This place and staff ooze with great energy! It's unfortunate that our car had this challenging issue, but God gave us beauty for ashes with this gem of a place! Thx u Mike for taking such great care of us and hiring such wonderful staff! Also absolutely love how lovely the garage is, warm and inviting-the nicest garage I have ever been in with great music over the speakers! Love the very warming beautiful electric fireplace and beautiful paintings in the office! Thx u Oliver Automotive for being ethical, accountable, personable, and highly knowledgeable with ur craft! read more

Oliver Automotive is the only mechanic shop in Marin County that I trust. When my Jeep recently broke down in San Francisco, I had it towed all the way to Oliver Automotive for repair. The owner, Mike, is honest and very clear with what work needs to be done. Within 2 days, he had my car up and running! Pricing was extremely fair and reasonable. His front desk staff is very nice and business professional. Highly recommend. read more

I was in a bind this morning at 7:30 a.m. as my daughter had her drivers license test scheduled for 9 a.m. ( an appointment it took a month to get!) and her turn signal bulb burned out! All lights MUST be in working order to take the test!! I headed to O'Reilly's who offered great service and recommendations but couldn't do the bulb replacement for me. They referred me to two local mechanics, one which wasn't open yet and Oliver Automotive. I called Oliver & spoke to Rhea, who immediately put my mind at ease and told me to come on over. When I arrived the technician did a thorough test of all the lights on the car, replaced the bulb and refused to accept any payment. He could have charged just about any amount & I would have paid it at that moment! I grabbed a card on my way out so that I could get his name and call back after my emotions subsided ( I was moved to tears). Rhea informed me it was Mike the owner who had performed the repair. Mike was courteous, thorough and sweet and so was his staff. Service is rare these days, I will be sure to return and support this business! read more

Mike's been my family's machanic for years. He rules. He knows his stuff and hooks it up. Gives great deals, doesn't rip you off with unreal parts and labor prices. He's just the man. Just do yourself a favor, go Oliver Automotive or go home. read more

Mike is absolutely awesome - yesterday I broke down a short distance from his shop and ran into him at the gas station. He helped push my car out of the way and took my key telling me he would take care of everything as soon as he had opened up! Indeed he did this, putting my car ahead of other peoples and had my car ready for me by 9:45am so I could still head to work. I love this guy! I went to his new location and it's way bigger and better - really happy for them! read more

I received such honesty from the folks at Oliver Automotive. True above and beyond service I would recommend this place hands down to anyone in the Bay Area looking for great auto repair. read more

We broke down far from home and were towed here. What luck! Mike was very professional and did not take advantage of the fact that we were at his mercy. Keep being honest. It is so appreciated!! read more

Mike Oliver is the man, and his business has been honest and valuable to the citizens of Novato for many years...He took an obscure problem in my '94 T-Bird, fixed quickly and cheaply...and didn't try to upsell me or anything. He knew I was a customer that wasn't gonna spend more than the minimum, so he spared both of us the headaches of "this and that" is wrong...My mechanic that I've always gone to is in Petaluma...I want a mechanic in the town I live and work in, and Oliver's has my business! read more

These guys make you feel right at home like they are family. Love the quality and knowledge here. You could learn a few things from these guys if you pay enough attention. Highly recommended and it shows. read more

Squared away. Honesty is flowing with this place, you can just tell it, and Mike won't overload you with unnecessary repairs. I had an oil gauge indicator on my truck that was acting funny. They fixed it fast and then quoted me on needed repairs for my aging 16 year old pickup, which was right in line price wise and what I was going to tackle next. Right on point and did not overcharge. I gave them the green light to get it done. I will be a return customer in the future. Thanks Mike! read more

Excellant. Mike has been servicing all our cars for over 15 years. We know he is always honest and gives awesome service. When our kids were in high school, they could bring their cars by if something funny was happening and he would make it safe and give us a call. One employee even checked out our daughter's car before she headed to Tahoe since her dad wasn't home at the exact second she needed to go! He has also referred us to body shops, smog and oil places and boat repair. read more

I was having some trouble with my brakes and had my Camry towed in to Novato Toyota. The dealerships tried to convince me that I needed 4 new pads, 4 new rotors and 4 new calipers. Something didn't seem right about it and I drove in to Oliver Automotive. Since I was about 150 miles from home, they reshuffled their scheduled work to get me in to look at it. Within 90 minutes, they had confirmed my suspicions, that the dealership service department had been WAY off base (downright unethical in my perspective, but I'll save that for a different Yelp review!). All my car needed was rear pads and rotors. Oliver Automotive saved me $1,800 from what the dealership tried to sell me for the same condition. While inspecting the car Oliver Automotive found that my water pump was leaking and replaced that as well. I'd have likely been stranded again, or perhaps worse, on my drive home had they not caught that. As honorable as they come. Thanks Mike (and Tammy too). read more

I have been going to Oliver's since I was 17 years old, I am now 33. He was a friend of my Auto shop teacher at the time I attended Terra Linda High school. Mike is a true man of integrity. A very honest man who has always worked his tail off to make whatever project I put in front of him result in a success. He has worked on every relic to modern car I or my entire family have owned over the last 16 years. I would trust Mike on any repair to be honest, and diligent in meeting my expectations for quality and turnaround time. Truly one of the best mechanics in the Bay Area. I currently live in Oakland and still drive the distance to go to Oliver's. He truly is that good. He is priced fairly and will get the job done! Sure you might find a cheaper mechanic somewhere but I doubt they'll stand up to Mike a true professional. read more

Huge shout out to Mike Oliver! Our car did not sound the best and I made an appt. and dropped it off. When I picked it up, he charged me = $0, because there was nothing wrong with my car. Today the "check engine" light came on and I made a phone to get it checked. He told me to come by at lunchtime and he would take a look. He hooked it up to the computer and found that I had no oil, despite the fact that I had stupidly taken my car in for an oil change at Oil Changers in Novato where clearly no oil was changed! Mike filled it up with a quart and I made an appt for next week for a check up. Again when I tried to pay him, he would not let me give him a cent - "my money is no good there!" Mike Oliver has true integrity and knows how to look after his customers - great guy! read more

All I have to say is IF something is working when you take the car in for an unrelated repair and is NOT working when you drive off with the car, it doesn't say much about their care for your vehicle while it is in their possession and during the repair. Our cars won't be going back for this second repair or any others in the future. read more

Ok so I recently got a car that wasn't under factory warranty and had a problem with my car, I trust Mike at Oliver Automotive because of my previous experience in 2012, I took my car to him and he's the same ole mike, friendly, kind, professional, trustworthy..I made an appointment, took my car in, he explained some things it could be and it made sense to me, I left the car with him for a few hours and when he called and gave me an update on how we would proceed with my problem and about how long it would take, I got a call saying "all done" explained what was done and the problem was taken care of and the price too. No gouging, no unnecessary upselling, hey sometimes we take a car in and if they find something additional wrong, it may need to be taken care of, that's a shop doing a thorough job, but many shops do this when it's not necessary for us as car owners. Mike is honest and a straight shooter, after being a sales/customer service and management professional for many years plus being a consumer too, I can tell when someone isn't honest. I believe this is why Oliver Auto is so busy and been around for as long as he has. It's smart long term business, creating advocates and repeat loyal customers. Do yourself a favor and go to Mike (owner) at Oliver Auto, you'll be in great hands and at competitive prices too. Thanx Mike. read more