Went here for a smog check.
Decided on this location because they were super responsive via Yelp but weren't very nice in the sense I accidentally clicked "Star smog" and they immediately said "service not provided." When I changed the request to a standard regular smog, somehow, Yelp placed me back into this establishment's inbox. In my opinion, they should have asked, "Are you sure you want Star and not regular as your car is not before 2000?" Since some may honestly not know the difference.
I chatted with them the previous week and they said they were too busy to fit me in so come Monday at 8am.
Now Monday at 8am...
I was 5 minutes late due to traffic and therefore concerned.
LOCATION: They are attached to a Volkswagen dealership and service Volkswagen cars on one end whereas the opposite end services all cars (per one of the workers I spoke to).
SERVICE: They inform me the smog specialist isn't in yet, but stuck in traffic and to come back at 9am.
I hate wasting time so I grabbed breakfast. I come back at 930am. No cars are seen being serviced. Doors are locked and thus I had to call. Receptionist said she's on the other side and will be there soon. We ask how long the smog check will take and she states 20 to 30 minutes.
WAITING ROOM: Phone signal is fairly slow but they provide free WiFi. Non-caffeinated tea bags, instant coffee and instant hot cocoa are provided. Hot water, cold water and non-reusable cups free to use. Restrooms are located in the other building.
SMOG CHECK: Service started at 943am. Complimentary car wash with a presumed pressure wash by hand provided but for an extra 15 min wait. Completed at 1023am. Tech left the car and said nothing. Receptionist just took the keys and said you can leave.
PRO TIP: bring your own pen.... Extreme blue ink pen explosion!!! I usually carry one but didn't put it back in my bag :( if you enter from the side or from the back there are zero signs of where to enter... hence keep your eye out for the orange.
FINAL THOUGHTS: I found it very strange that they provided a car wash, advised me of areas I need to clean, etc. BECAUSE I only came here for a SMOG CHECK not a full work up or anything. They provided a paper copy and an electronic copy of the service... no printout of the smog certification.
Isn't it strange how I went to a different smog check facility last year who took 5 to 10 minutes whereas they take 20 to 30 minutes? And how I have to do yet another smog 1 year later? These questions are up for anyone to interpret.
I sincerely hope they did not mess with my car and that I do not have to do yet another smog next year. As for value, totally not worth my time. Tired of excuses. Equally annoyed that I waxed my car and they power washed without notifying me that all my wax will be removed... also slightly annoyed stating that my car is dirty. Communication is lackluster to a tee... they have my phone number, Yelp, email, etc yet did not care to inform me their tech is late / updating me with what's going on. Subsequently, coming here is for you to decide. Very questionable. read more