I'm sure these guys are good at oil changes and stuff. Anything else, I'd probably take it to a specialized shop. If you stay with this long story here, you'll see the shady side of automotive repairs. My wife's '05 Civic overheated on the Grapevine; the radiator blew a huge crack. After replacing the radiator myself (along with every other cooling-related part), the car overheated again 3 months later. I brought it to Steve's Express based on ratings and being new to the area, and as a former mechanic myself I thought it would be worthwhile to have someone with access to more diagnostic tools than I find the root of the problem. After diagnosing it as a blown head gasket, we paid Art at Steve's Express $1400+ on his word that the overheating problem would be resolved. Cool. Well, not cool, but at least it'll be done and with a warranty. A couple months later, the car starts overheating again. We left it at Steve's for 3 days, using a rental car while he checked it out. He finally called, saying it was running just fine after "driving it around all day", despite the odometer only having 2 more miles from when we dropped it off. We picked it up, finding a couple new small dents and a huge scratch across the trunk lid. Wasn't us, he said. But he did say he flushed the radiator fluid just as a precaution, which is really hard to do when the radiator fluid was still blue from the dye he put in it to check for leaks!!! The car overheated almost instantly after we got it back from him, at which point I took it back and told Art not to call until he had a solution because we'd paid $1400+ to have it fixed, not more problems. He called 4 days later, saying the radiator was clogged and a new one was needed, but lucky for me, he already put in a new radiator and the car didn't overheat, so Art asked if I wanted to just buy the new radiator and labor, etc. I advised him that I'd already done the new radiator 3 months ago, it was under lifetime warranty from Autozone and that I'd get him the free replacement so when he takes out the new one he had decided to put in to test, he could simply replace it with the new warranty one I would bring him. Nope!! He can't do that!! There's 2 issues here: 1) We paid $1400 (!!!) to fix a problem that never got fixed or they either did a bad job and refuse to own up to it, and then he puts in a new radiator to test it. Because I didn't buy his new part with labor costs, he's got to take out the new radiator anyways, so instead of putting in the 3 month old supposedly "bad" one, he can't simply help me out and put in the replacement one instead? 2) We paid $1400 to fix a problem because he said this is the problem, and now suddenly its a clogged radiator? What happened to the $1400 head gasket job? This incredibly reliable car has two separate cooling system failures a couple short months apart that exhibit the exact same symptoms? And what if I buy this radiator, and the car overheats again? What will he tell me next time? I pay a mechanic to get the problem right and stand behind it, not guess by fixing things as they go hoping they finally get the right combination. At this point, I'm doubtful that it even was a head gasket, because the car is still overheating with another brand new radiator! So we finally got the car back, now there's dirt and grime all over the driver seat, floorboard, kick panel and door panel, and a couple more new dents. Wasn't us, he said. Just kick me while I'm down, huh? We moved from Los Angeles 3 weeks ago. Towed the Civic behind the U-Haul truck because we can't drive a car that can't drive 5 miles, 400 miles. I've got a guy up here that can find anything with a car, and if he finds the head gasket is blown, I will give Art one chance to pay a mechanic of our choice up here to fix it before I take this to the CA BAR. Long story? Yes. Story of dishonest mechanics taking advantage of people? Yes. Moral of the story? Buy some tools and learn to do it yourself!! I made a mistake I will never repeat. read more

Needed work on my daughter's Prius right away, and Steve's was awesome! Not only did they give us a competitive price, BUT they had it done in one day. Tony was so friendly and helpful. He also called the next day to make sure that the car was still running good and that we didn't have any concerns. We have used Steve's for almost all of their business years and STILL would go there for service. A big thanks to Tony and the guys!! read more

Here is the type of review I wish people would give so it helps others choose a shop that is best for them. I arrived at 7:17am--I had a coolant leak and they said it was the water pump. 4- 5 hour job. Car was ready at 4:00pm Total paid $600 dollars. Water pump 115, ($60 at Autozone down the street- found out later), Hoses $30 and $60, Thermostat, gasket $45, coolant $25.. Total paid for parts=$270 Labor $315 1 star because : -They charge higher prices for readily available parts (Autozone down the street) -They told me it would cost $1000+ to fix my AC and at least Pepboys who I don't care for either said it would be $600. =/ -They are not consistent with how some people described as like you don't feel special and are not shown the work on your car that was done for such a high amount. -Took long even when you are among the first to show up. -No Air conditioning for the prices they charge they should have that in the waiting area. -No wifi/outlets So if you are rich you would like it here. Others that are not so lucky may want to look elsewhere. And yes I came prepared to pay some money bc I did but the fact is they overcharge for parts and pocket the money and I don't respect that. If I didn't have a leak and knew about the going rate for parts I would have left. P.S. There is nothing "EXPRESS" about Steve. Good luck! read more

Steve's Express - Water pump - Auto Repair Near Me - Northridge, California

I had my car oil changed there right before I left for San Francisco in December 2014. Recently on March 13, 2015, my car has stopped functioning. Came to find out that someone had contaminated my brake fluids. Why on earth would someone do that? Fair warning, if honesty is not in your favor, please know that it will come to you in your own time. I do not respect this company at all or TRUST this company. Yes, I am aware of the high ratings. Honesty is the number one priority. AND If you can't give that to your customers, why do you work there? Get out. We need more honest people when it comes to fixing cars... Malfunctioning cars = death. So, is that what you do? Trying to kill people? Here are the list that my car needs fixing: Lifetime Rear Drum Brake Brake flush with lifetime brake. Tips for new future mechanics: I learned that if you work fast and do your job right, you get bonus! And don't slack! read more

First review of mine. :D They're honest. I took my car to another mechanic who kept tacking up what's wrong with it. Went for a second opinion and even mentioned to look out for this and that. Nope. Just one that needs to be fixed according to the check engine. Even more so, I'm Deaf. They texted me and actually communicated. Others don't text and tend to forget to let me know when something is done or whatever. I even lol'd when Johnny texted me that my car is done because when I replied, "Coming. Thanksies." He responded with "No problemsies." So, in short: customer service is awesome. read more

I'm a moron when it comes to cars... although my wife might say, "Just cars? Why stop there babe?" The fact that I'm a car moron has always made me feel way out of place at auto-repair shops and it apparently is stamped across my forehead, because mechanics are always trying to screw me over. "$616 for new brakes? Umm, that sounds kinda high. But sure, I guess. I dunno. Here's my retirement savings, good sir!" NOT AT STEVE'S! Finally, I've found a place that does not treat me like the idiot I am, does not talk down to me, does not try to rip me off, does the work quickly and efficiently, and is honest and friendly. They'll transport you to and from the shop while your car is being repaired, which makes it super easy for me during my lunch break. I won't be going anywhere else for now on. ***UPDATE*** Went back again with my wife's car. These guys truly are the best. Drove me back to work in my own car so they could get a feel for the problem, took it back, worked on it, told me I DIDN'T need the work done that the guys who changed my oil at Midas said I did (so glad I didn't listen to them!), picked me up from work and charged me the exact same price for the brake job that they did on my car the last time I took it in. Awesome, honest, customer-oriented work. Do not waste your time going anywhere else. read more

Picking a mechanic can be a stressful task. I've been taking my Subaru to Steve's for about 8 years they're always straight forward and do quality work. If they can fix the issue Art and Johnny always have a hookup to a specialist shop. I would definitely recommend them to anyone in the area. Thanks guys. read more

Steve's Express - Steve's keeps the suby rollin' - Auto Repair Near Me - Northridge, California

One day while waiting at a Firestone dealership for a set of tires to be mounted on my car I observed how the salesmen behind the desk work up car repair bills and present them to some their customers. After you left your car, say for an oil change and air conditioner check, they call you back a couple of hours later with both the "good and the bad news." Generally the bad news was a laundry list of things that need to be done, but the good news was that if we only do this, all will be fine. The average quote for the good news ripoff was usually around $4-500, the bad news closer to $1000. It seemed like most of these calls were to women who would jump at the good news repairs and seemingly save $600 bucks. Were the unnecessary repairs actually done...I am not certain. This will NEVER happen to you at Steve's. I have been a customer for around fifteen years. They have always been honest, expedient, and friendly. You will never get the good news, bad news scenario at Steve's. read more

I took my vehicle here after the dealership gave me a long, costly list of repairs for it. I had heard great things about the integrity and workmanship at Steve's Express so I gave it a shot for a "second opinion". I'm so happy I did! Art was fantastic from start to finish. He explained things well, was through in his inspections, found that I only needed about half of the repairs, and got my vehicle back to me in less than 24 hours for a fraction of cost I was originally quoted. Art has also been a tremendous help in the past for my husband's vehicle. This is definitely our mechanic shop from here on out! Thank you so much Steve's Express! read more

I have been going to Steve's Express for 3 years now. My husband (before we got married) told me about this shop, he was going there for years before me. We both love this shop a lot. We always go to them for our oil changes, smog checks and other maintenance that may need to be done. They've told me when something was about to go bad, and if I couldn't take care of it then, they told me how long I might have before it will absolutely need to be done. The other thing I love about them is, my hood was damaged from an accident I was in about a year ago, it won't stay closed anymore so I have to tie it down. They have no issues untying it, and retying it (even better than I can) after they are done. I've offered to untie it for them, but they tell me its okay, they can do it for me. They have great customer service skills and have never tried to rip me off. And their waiting area is fairly decent. they have a soda vending machine, a restroom, air conditioning and a TV. The chairs are standard, but they are not uncomfortable. I am always waiting when I take my car, and I've never had a bad experience! I highly recommend them. read more

Yesterday I took my Grandfather's truck in to be serviced. I had never been to this shop and I got the info on Yelp. The staff there was fantastic and they are extremely honest! They also were in constant communication with me! I appreciate that! If you have issues with your car and need an honest shop for a fair price, look no further! read more

After doing some research, I dropped my truck off to get some work done after hitting 150K miles. I showed up at around 8AM and was greeted by Art. Told him I wanted all the fluids changed, tranny, oil, radiator and a brake job done. Right off the bat Art said, we'll take a look at the brakes first to see if they need to be changed. If they do we'll change them but if not we won't waste your money. Got a call around 2PM to say my truck was done. When I showed up, low and behold he said my brakes were still at 50% so he didn't have to change them. I don't doubt other places would have changed my brakes. Art was very professional and polite in all senses of the word. Not only he save me money by not going to a dealer but saved me money by not having to change my brakes. Steve's Express now has a future customer. Thanks gentleman!!! read more

Went here today because my car overheated on me and leaked some anti-freeze on the ground. I went on the good yelp reviews and its very close to my house. Let me say this, THESE GUYS ARE HONEST! I went in thinking I had a leak. They found nothing. They could have told me ANYTHING , water pump .. Etc .. Something expensive just to make a buck and I would have believed them based on what I saw and my car over heating. Maybe it had to do with the 100 degree valley heat that day? I dunno, but I do know that I will def refer these guys and be back if I need to in the future. Johnny helped me, what a nice guy! The only reason for 4 stars is that it took literally all day to find out when they told me it would only be a couple of hours. But hey, this place is busy & I know why. read more

I got my oil change done here, as well as my brake lightbulb replaced and one of my tires fixed due to a nail puncture, and they only charged me for the oil change! On top of that, he gave me a $15 discount. This place has great customer service and I can see why they have such high review ratings! The only downside is that they get super busy, so drop off your car as early as possible, preferably right when they open. Other than that, I will definitely be coming back here for all my future automobile services! read more

These guys at Steves always come through in the clutch! the main belt snapped while at work, had my vehicle towed to steves that night... The next morning at 9:30am, i was back in business. Art and the crew ROCK OUT!! read more

I literally JUST left this shop. I went in for a coolant check and a coolant refill. Art was the taller gentleman at the front desk. He had me sit down and instantly took my car in for a check after a few minutes. It was the fastest service I've received at any mechanic shop. Art was funny and charismatic. He really made the 20 minutes I was there enjoyable. They ran a thorough check of my car and didn't find any leaks. When I say thorough, I mean it. He then went on to give me some advice. He ended up not even charging me for practically wasting his time! I gave him a hug after that haha. He's the sweetest man! I loved everything about this place. Really great guys! Go go go! read more

We have been taking our cars here since we moved into the area about three years ago. No complaints whatsoever. Art, who works the front desk, is super friendly. They never seem to encourage you to get work done unless you absolutely need it. I even brought our car in there for an oil change once and asked them to check the breaks. They said, "you still got some life in them, bring the car back in six months and we can check again." It's not always easy to find honest mechanics like that. It's the reason I don't bring my car anywhere else. read more

I don't write reviews often, as you can see, I've written maybe 1 other, but with the kindness that Art at Steve's Express extended to me I had to make mention of the exceptional service here. I found Steve's here on Yelp last year, and decided to give it a try. Over the past year I've taken my truck to them a few times, and 1 of those was for a pretty major repair. I've been happy with the service each and every time. Last week I had brake problems and they diagnosed the problem. hr couldn't get the part on Saturday, so it was going to be Tues. before he could complete the repair. I told him to hold my truck. over the weekend while looking online I found that Ford had a recall on this repair. I messaged Art (through the Request A Quote here on Yelp) and told him the dealer would fix it for free, and not to start on the work. First thing Tuesday morning Art told me he got my message and all was good, and he expressed he was happy I found this recall. I ran over and picked up my truck and with no hassle at all Art and his guys pulled my truck up and he says "You're all good to go". I was amazed and even offered, telling him I was willing to pay for his time to diagnose the problem, but he refused and again said "No charge. You're good to go". It's hard to find honest mechanics who g=do good work, don't make recommendations on repairs that aren't needed, don't take advantage of you in any given situation that you may find yourself in at any time. Art and Steve's Express had my trust already when I went in that day last week based on my past history with them, but to me that sealed the deal that I will always take my vehicles to Steve's, and without a worry. Good job guys, and thank you again! read more

I brought my 2002 Prius in to get my check engine light checked out and Steve very nicely took an OBD reading of the car, diagnosed and solved the problem, and cleared the engine light. He wished me well and sent me on my way. He has my gratitude and my future business. Thanks again. Dave read more

Art is great. I took my car to this shop because I had a check engine on and after a couple of hours he called me and told me what was the issue and the fact that my car was still under warranty. This saved me at $1600 once I took it to dealer, something that most mechanics would rather do it themselves and collect the money. I am really happy with their service and honesty which I think matters the most when you leave your car with them. I really suggest them to anyone who is looking for a honest and professorial mechanic in the area! read more

Great spot to go to but horrible customer service. Get rid of tony! Extremely rude and always on his phone.

First timer here, got a quick estimate and service. In no time, I was out and able to catch my appointment. Will definitely be back for more service. Thank you very much to the awesome crew. read more

I go here for convenience since it's across the street from my work Medtronic. You get a discount for working there as wel! They call you when they are done working on your car (but they sometimes forget!) and the prices seem affordable. read more

I discovered Steve's Express years ago and have never had a complaint. They always do great work. I've had oil changes, a new radiator, new suspension, new brakes and many other services over the years. The manager, Art, and the entire gang here are friendly, professional, and knowledgeable. read more

Steve's Express has been servicing my cars for years. They've serviced all three of my car, and I have always been beyond satisfied with their work and customer service! They are always more than willing to help me and take care of my car. I trust them that they're not going to take advantage of me and up sell something just to make a profit cause they never have. The other day I hit a huge pot hole and knocked my wheel well loose, I immediately called them to see if I could get it in to be checked out. They took me right away and looked at my car. Found out what it was and clipped the wheel well back into place for me, didn't charge me a thing. The mechanic who worked on my car was more concerned that I would be driving safe and to let him know if it popped out again. I will always recommend them and continue to go to them to service any vehicle I have from here on out! read more

Found Steve's Express after a Yelp search. I needed an oil change and Art was helpful with setting my same-day appointment and setting expectations of when my car would be done. Happy I came across them and will be bringing my car again here in the future. read more

These guy's have never been anything but amazing to me. Just to tag onto what's already been covered, the very few time's I've had an issue with my car they couldn't fix they were extremely quick to recommend someone equally as amazing to solve my problem. Love these guys. Gonna miss having them around when I move out of the valley. read more

These guys saved me a lot of money over the dealership. Super nice guys too. Part of my repairs was to get my oil changed. After I got home, I noticed some oil on my driveway. Took my car in and they tightened the drain plug. Still leaked. So they ordered a new part, replaced it in 10 minutes and didn't charge me. Thanks guys! read more

Took my '05 Passat wagon in April to fix my drivers side window, which fell into the door. The car had been in once before, though this was my first time in. Let me just say right now, I'm happy I thought to go back there! This place has a hole-in-the wall vibe, not fancy but still comfy if you decide to wait. It wasn't as full, as I came early, but there was still a queue ahead of me. The fellas at the front were very sweet, talking me through what might need to be done and how much the parts would cost. It never felt like I was being talked down to (as I've felt when I go to most mechanics), nor like my questions were an inconvenience. They kept me informed as things came up, which was nice. Usually you sit there with no updates. I don't expect to be told every time something is unscrewed, but a progress update now and again is nice. Here's where they sealed it for me. The old panel was brought out and shown to me, with a brief explanation of where things had gone wrong. This is more of a so-what thing, but I appreciated and enjoyed the impromptu lesson about how stuff worked. They've definitely earned my business for any big repairs I might need. read more

Steve's express is the best o have been going there for 5 years and they are always so helpful and they really take care of my car and it's needs !! read more

I've been coming here for years. They are the absolute most honest mechanics you will ever meet. They always take care of my car needs, provide the best service and are hands down the best crew i've ever dealt with. If you need work done, don't hesitate and have them handle your work. read more

I love this shop. Employees are friendly. Art is a cool guy and always very honest and that is the main reason I will never go anywhere else. They are always packed but they do such a great job they get it all done fast! read more

They did an excellent job replacing the breaks and rotors on my Honda Civic Hybrid. They were very friendly and polite. I got a genuinely good vibe from the people working there. They went above and beyond with their professionalism. I feel happy that I finally found a trust worthy auto shop in LA!! If you're trying to find a place where you can have work done on your car with a peace of mind then go to this place! read more

Go to Steve's! My "check engine" light just came on and I freaked out. Ok, here we go a $400 day. Went over there at 8 am and told them what was happening. He went out into the parking lot to check my car. Popped the hood, slammed it and went over to the gas cap and tighened it up and said "you are good". If it happens again come back. No charge! Whooo Hooo read more

Thanks guys for providing good review on this place. Based on this review only i approached them yesterday for purchasing used toyota prius. they checked for me and recommended. So nice of them they did good job in less time. Thanks all and steve's express for timely help. read more

This place is awesome. The staff is very professional, friendly, thorough and not at one point tried to add parts and services to up their sale. I dropped off my car at 4:30pm on a Friday and was ready by 9:00am the following day. Just awesome! I recommend this place to everyone. read more

I'm Really pleased with the customer service they provided, I called up and spoke to Art and asked for a quote for new breaks and he was really upfront and nice. I was told by the Nissan dealership that I had only about 2mm of brakes left so I was in desperate need of replacement. When I went to get them worked on they took my truck in and to my surprise they called me back 2hrs later to tell me I had about 5-6mm left and was good for 3000-5000 more miles. I was really grateful, especially since they did this at no cost. They totally won over my business. Super honest group Thanks to the staff read more

Their service here is so great!! I just came by for yet another oil change and filter change. They're prices are reasonable and hey work quickly. I would highly recommend coming in the morning on a weekday because their weekends are pretty booked. read more

The best mechanic I know of in the Valley. Art is an amazing guy, and his mechanics are top notch. I would recommend them to anyone. Been going here for years. So has my roommate. And have never been disappointed read more

I've been a customer for years. I've had great service with Art. Recently I had to deal with Tony. He was unprofessional and did not take care of the issue. He took advantage of my situation. I had to return 3 times and still the issue exists. Do not recommend as the place had changed and not for the good. read more