Eleven out of Ten I highly recommend SoCal Auto! Chris, the owner, is honest, knowledgeable, and truly looks out for his customers. I originally took my prius to a nearby automotive group, where I was told I needed brake fluid, coolant fluid, and transmission fluid services that would have cost me nearly $1,000 in other words an arm and a leg. Said my brake fluid is dirty and my coolant fluid needs flushing. Before moving forward, I decided to get a second opinion from other automotive groups one of which was SoCal Auto. Chris at SoCal Auto inspected my vehicle, tested my brake fluid and inspected my coolant fluid and found that they were close to brand new and didn't need changing. Instead of trying to sell me unnecessary work, he was upfront, honest, and saved me a whole band in minutes. He knows his stuff, and was super cool about it It's hard to find an experienced mechanic you can trust, especially in such short notice. SoCal Auto has definitely earned my business. If you're looking for an honest shop that won't take advantage of you on repairs you don't need, I highly recommend Chris and his team. read more

SoCal Auto - Fast peace of mind for my little cherry red prius before our Lake Tahoe road trip - Auto Repair Near Me - San Marcos, California

This review is overdue as Chris has serviced my truck for several years now. He is honest, straightforward, and his shop does a great job with diagnosing issues and fixing them with the best possible outcome. Chris will answer all of my questions with patience, which should earn them six stars. The waiting room is comfortable, the shop is clean, the techs are friendly. What else can you ask for in a dependable shop? read more

SoCal Auto is an absolute gem! I've been going to Chris for over 10 years, and he has always provided honest, reliable, and top-notch service. The team is friendly, knowledgeable, and truly cares about their customers. Every visit is smooth, and I always leave confident that my car is in great hands. read more

Chris was awesome to work with. I had a problem with my Jeep ac blowing hot air on the passenger side. He checked to make sure no leaks were detected & did a refrigerant charge. It's now working great. He could have told me I needed a whole new AC system but was up front & honest. I will definitely recommend SoCal Auto & Chris to all of my family and friends. read more

I had oil leaking from my car and I just hopped on yelp and found So-Cal Auto. Chris managed to check my car within 5 minutes and was extremely honest and showed me exactly what was going on and did not charge me cent for it. It's so difficult to find honest mechanics, especially when you are a girl walking into an auto shop. I really liked how detailed he was and did not push any other services. The auto shop is also really nice, with a comfortable waiting room with a coffee machine. I think I found my trusty mechanic in SD. read more

Have had a great experience every time that I come in. Chris is welcoming and an honest hard worker! The only place I'll come to for any car problem ‍ read more

I needed brakes and rotors on my sedan. Chris quoted me a GREAT price, half what the Infiniti dealer quoted! Half! So i made an appt for the same week and service was fast and ive had no problems since. Chris made everything easy and i will definitely return for any other service my car needs in future. Thank you Chris! read more

I've been taking my vehicles here for several years and have always received outstanding service. The mechanic is extremely knowledgeable, honest, and dependable. He takes the time to explain any issues clearly and provides practical recommendations without trying to upsell unnecessary repairs. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for reliable, professional, and high-quality automotive service. Thank you So Cal Auto! read more

Took my GTI in for a leak issue. Long story short, Chris put it up on the lift and verified no active leak. He figured out why I thought I had a leak. Problem solved Honest business being ran here. read more

I went to get my wife's older car smogged this week at So Cal Smog Check next door to SoCal Auto. Unknown to me, there was a mechanical issue with the car that could have kept me from getting the car smogged or, worse, damaged the car in the process. I was worried that I might have to get the car towed, get it repaired, and possibly miss the registration deadline. Chris, the owner of SoCal Auto went above and beyond by taking the time out of his day to come over and diagnose and resolve the issue. A lot of people would have said they were busy, told me to make an appointment and just moved on. In a few minutes, he had it diagnosed and fixed. I am really grateful to Chris for helping that day when he really didn't have to. We will be bringing the car there in the future. read more

I took my car for its six month maintenance check to Chris of SoCal Auto after the dealership told me my maintenance warranty with them had expired. Chris changed the oil and filter, topped off all fluids and filled tires to specifications plus added new screws to my back license plate holder which was loose. He reported that his overall inspection of my car checked out great. Additionally he texted me that the car was ready sooner than expected so I could go on with my day. Total cost was very reasonable too. Thanks Chris for terrific service! read more

I actually walked out without a charge after the guys checked my brakes and found nothing wrong!!!! My old garage would have made something up and charged me hundreds. This shop is the absolute best. Completely honest and ethical. Love this place!!!!! read more

Chris and the crew at SoCal Auto are the real deal! We've been using Chris for all our vehicle maintenance for several years and now we send our adult kids there too. Chris has the integrity you hope for when taking your vehicle in for service. He tells you what needs to be done, what you might want to do now or in the near future, and sheds light on what you don't need to do but others may convince you is needed. It's abundantly refreshing. As for value and service, we always feel well cared for and appreciated as a customer. Other shops we've been too felt predatory, unethical, and they seemed annoyed by questions or concerns. Chris always takes the time to explain everything clearly. We appreciate that so much. read more

I recently discovered So Cal Auto, and I can't emphasize enough just how genuine and extremely honest the shop and the owners are. My experiences at So Cal Auto have been pleasant, and the staff and service have been beyond helpful. Not only that, but the integrity of this establishment goes beyond what I could have hoped for. I brought my (very old) Ford Escape in because of a persistent air conditioner issue, and Chris worked tirelessly to diagnose and resolve the problem. He tried multiple approaches and invested considerable time and effort in troubleshooting. However, he came to the conclusion that fixing the air conditioner would not worth it for me financially in the end. What truly sets Chris and So Cal Auto apart is the honesty and integrity he displayed during this process. Despite having already spent $400+ on parts, he genuinely didn't want to charge me anything from the original estimate. I insisted on reimbursing him for the parts, as it was only fair, but his reluctance to overcharge me was truly commendable. The service at So Cal Auto is top-notch. Chris is not just a skilled mechanic; he is also personable and friendly. He takes the time to explain things in a way that's easy to understand, making you feel confident that you're making informed decisions about your vehicle. His willingness to work with anyone in any financial situation is truly exceptional. For people like me (females) who have history and concerns about being taken advantage of when it comes to car matters, I can wholeheartedly say that So Cal Auto is a place you can trust. Chris's flexibility, honesty, and genuine approach to his work are attributes that are becoming increasingly rare to find in any industry. This place is a beacon of trustworthiness and is a fantastic choice for great prices on quotes - as well as second opinions from someone you can trust. I highly recommend So Cal Auto for all your automotive needs. Not to mention, he has the cutest assistant at work with him every day too (his dog) :) read more

Looking for an auto mechanic that you can trust? Look no further since SoCal Auto consistently delivers on technical experience, the utmost integrity, and high quality. I've been coming to SoCal Auto for about 3 years now for various maintenance and repair jobs and I can always count on Chris and his team to provide the best services with a very competitive value. I first brought my car here when the shop was relatively brand new and I had no idea what to expect. I had to get a standard oil change and also wanted Chris to check on why my car would veer without any steering input. I thought for sure I had to get a new rack & pinion but Chris checked it out and saw loose bolts in the rack & pinion. He tightened them all up and it was good to go. And he refused to charge me for that service. Well it's safe to say I was sold at that point. Since then he has done various work like the timing belt, AC troubleshoot/fix, motor mounts, serpentine belt, spark plugs/wires and of course the usual oil changes. All done in a timely manner and cheaper than the competition. My car feels brand new again thanks to SoCal Auto. Chris is extremely knowledgeable and can troubleshoot anything you throw his way. No task is too small or too large so if you're having car problems, Chris and his team will fix the issue. There's also a roomy and comfortable waiting area where there's coffee, snacks and water. And if you're lucky enough, you'll catch him on a day when he brings his awesome dog, Rocco :) read more

I'm a single vehicle household and needed our vehicle done in a tight schedule. Clear communication, clean work, worked with my needs. Chris and team rocked this job! read more

grateful for the honest, to the point, kind work that Chris gives. been coming for a number of years, nothing changes.

Quick update to my initial review. Chris is killing it here at SoCal Auto and the consistent 5 stars are still well earned. SoCal Auto offers quick, thorough service at a reasonable price and most importantly, they are trustworthy. I have brought my vehicles here for everything from regular services to strange issues, such as clogged drains and malfunctioning alarms. Chris will give you an upfront evaluation of what it will take to fix your car and will get it done promptly. read more

Chris did me a solid for my unusual request on my Subaru Forester. Went over and above with great service. On top of that...he didn't even charge me for his time or trouble! His employee helped too even though it wasn't a 2 man job. read more

Great service at a reasonable rate. Chris and his team are very knowledgeable and take care of their customer. This will definitely be my new "regular" shop. read more

Best mechanic I've had yet. Trustworthy, nice, quick and always available to help. I highly recommend!

Had high oil pressure and a check engine light on, at the start of our trip back home to Oregon. Chris, checked our engine light, and diagnosed the issue as a bad oil pressure sensor, topped off our oil at no charge and assured us that our ride would make it back home, putting my wife's mind at ease which is something money can't buy. read more

I initially spoke with Chris via text and he quoted me on what I need done. It was definitely cheaper than the dealership but about $20 more than a competitor. However, with the 20% discount that was given to me as a new customer, we decided to go with them cz we ended up saving about $2. The shop was clean with a decent waiting area. The other guy, Devon, was also helpful with the process and explaining everything to us. The decor was really nice and their website was informative. We paid via phone and an invoice was instantly sent to us. I have another vehicle that will need an auto shop home in the future. If we keep getting good pricing from this establishment, we will definitely come back. read more

SoCal Auto - Auto Repair Near Me - San Marcos, California

SoCal Auto is the absolute BEST! SoCal deserves a 5-Star review. My engine's splash shield got damaged at a car wash. Since Hoen Honda's quote of $1,024, was out of my budget, I purchased the part online, but couldn't do the work. A friend recommended calling SoCal Auto. (I'm so glad I did.) Chris, the owner, agreed to install it. A few minutes after I showed up for my appointment, my car was good as new, and to my surprise, Chris said, "No charge." That kind of effort in good customer relations is rare, to say the least, and only reflected in a business that values their customers, and where Quality of Service is a priority. I'm now a lifetime customer and fan of SoCal Auto! - Ron A., Oceanside, CA read more

Found Chris when I was searching for an honest repair shop. You know how hard it is to find one but they are out there. Chris is one. He is fair and reliable. He has great prices. He doesn't handle tires and auto body. But I go to him for honest advice, solid work, and great service. And I'll keep going back to him. read more

Honest shop with solid work and great communication. Chris and his crew are adept at solving your auto's issues right the first time. No overselling or finding things that "may" need fixing. They are the type of shop I enjoy working with. A+ all the way around. read more

SoCal auto is the only shop I will take my cars to. He always does the right thing by the customer and provides outstanding service at a great price. He never makes you feel like you are being taken advantage of and offers multiple options. Chris understands how to run a business successfully and that is by taking care of your customers the right way. read more

Chris is so easy and chill to work with that he's now the first shop I call when one of our cars need a repair. I don't even bother shopping around anymore, I just bring it over to Chris to checkout. He gives reasonable estimates via a convenient online system, and after I approve the repair, it's all done in just a few hours. Back on the road, no drama, no fuss. If you value your time and need a quality shop to get you back on the road quickly, do yourself a favor and just skip the rest and go to SoCal auto. read more

SoCal Smog local business was super friendly !! I was in a bit of a mess with Firestone and SoCal Smog came to save me from that disaster. They were, not only military friendly but, super attentive, friendly, and ready to get things done. Highly recommend ! 10/10 read more

SoCal Auto - Auto Repair Near Me - San Marcos, California

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Senior woman finally found Automotive Shop that is honest, reliable, efficient, could go on and on...thank you Chris! Asked how much for a safety check. Did it for no charge. Will be taking my car there from now on. And recommend to my friends, family, neighbors. read more

Amazing job, guy was really nice and got my car fixed fast! Definitely would go here again if I had any trouble.

Towed my vehicle to have it checked and got my Starter replaced and drove it off a few hours later! Holy Canoli.... Customer service was top notch! Thanks Chris! read more

After my car randomly decided to flash every warning light imaginable, I needed a trustworthy mechanic to take it to ASAP. When others couldn't get me in or would charge an arm and a leg for a look, Chris offered a complimentary inspection and took care of the problem right away. He was honest, quick, convenient, and got the job done and got me back on the road in no time. He'll be me and my family's first call the next time our vehicles need servicing. Oh, and his fur kid's photos are in the waiting area, so beyond the five-star service, you know dog people are good people! Thanks, Chris! read more

So nice to have found a local HONEST, reliable, and knowledgeable local mechanic/auto shop. I found SoCal auto on Yelp after experiencing multiple subsequent issues with my Jeep Grand Cherokee from having services done at the FireStone off San Marcos Blvd. With my very first phone call, Chris the owner didn't hesitate to have me bring my Jeep in literally within minutes of my call for a quick eval. After some troubleshooting attempts and eventually a more formal diagnostic, Chris was able to identify several issues and major repairs needed to my vehicle. Although not the news I was hoping for, I appreciated Chris's consistent and straightforward customer service during our multiple encounters. I am so glad to have found a local mechanic that I truly trust to work on my vehicle. My only regret is that I didn't bring my vehicle to SoCal in the first place. Don't waste your time or money (like I did) dealing with a questionable car service place like FireStone, and just give SoCal a call. Thanks again Chris and SoCal! read more

I've taken my car in several times now, after getting less than expert repairs elsewhere-- and at SoCal I can always expect an honest answer, accurate quote and authoritative help and repairs. I don't think you can ask much more of a repair shop. read more

Forgive me for not getting this review done sooner SoCal Auto Team! Driven by Chris Deatrick, the SoCal Auto Team of Devin, Maya, and Lee deliver a high-quality experience every time! Always patient, listening and brainstorming, this Team invests in their customers to understand their needs. Honest to the point of not taking my money when I believe my car needs something, I trust them without reservation with my 2014 Dodge Charger. I take it to Chris and Team before I visit a Dodge dealer for warranty repairs, which speaks to my level of trust. To give you perspective, Chris and Team take great care of my Mom and her car! I cannot speak highly enough of the way they handle Mom when she comes in and keeping her 2003 PT Cruiser running. Keeping the Cruiser running is a miracle in itself! Thank you! They also handle any automotive needs for my In closing, if you are looking for a truly honest automotive repair shop look no further! Please try the SoCal Automotive Team for any of your automotive needs. read more

Wish I could give ten stars for their exemplary service! First off, Devin returned my call on Labor Day and working with him this week to remedy several problems with my sons car has been a great experience. He's honest, forthright which as most folks know is an anomaly, NOT the norm! Highly recommend this shop for any repairs. Thank you again, Devin! Don Mccormick read more

Brought the car in for a few issues; corrected most of them by just a simple diagnosis. Rest of the service was well priced, quick, and he service is top notch. Will come back for any car needs. read more

Just picked up my car from SoCal Auto, and as most people have, I've had a ton of experience dealing with different mechanics good and bad. Chris is one of the best if not #1. Extremely straightforward and to the point, while still being genuinely kind, as well as delivered on what we needed and answered additional questions about our other car that he wasn't even working on. Will be returning for any car needs in the future! Edit to add, the shop dog is very sweet too read more

Had my car parked in a parking lot and came out to find damage all along the driver's side of my vehicle. I drove to Rancheros Dr since (from the I-78) I've seen a lot of auto shop repair places there. I drove into SoCal Auto's parking lot, obv without an appointment. First, Cooper (the super sweet dog) came out to greet me. Immediately following, Chris came out. I showed Chris the problem, and he fixed it right there and then. He couldn't have been more friendly, helpful, or affordable. Highly recommend going to Chris... and give Cooper a friendly pat for me. ;) read more