I originally encountered these guys when looking for a shop that could fix the convertible top on my BMW Z4. They told me what would be involved and that they would not be able to work on it without it costing a fortune. A less than honest shop might've tried to soak me for a repair job that ends up costing more than expected. I know, because others have tried that. These guys gave me an honest appraisal, and I remembered that when choosing a shop to work on my wife's car. We had just bought a 2006 BMW 330 ci, and like clockwork, just after the 30-day warranty expired, we had problems. It had just rained torrentially for three straight days and unbeknownst to us, the drainage ports in the trunk were completely clogged, allowing water to build up and penetrate to the electrical system. We noticed the dash lights, indicators, and steering wheel controls did not work. We brought it to Toole's with the hope that it was something easily diagnosed and fixed. It wasn't. To keep an already long story from getting much longer, I will just say that it was a 4-day-long diagnosis as the problem component(s) were not easily found, even with advanced diagnostic equipment. They sought out expert advice from other professionals who specialize in BMWs. The problem component was found and replaced. I originally agreed to three hours of labor, but since it went as long as it did, I happily agreed to an extra hour. So essentially, they stuck to the agreement plus a reasonable additional amount. I tried to add on a tip but they wouldn't accept it. We bought them pizzas instead. I recommend this shop because they're honest, friendly professionals who seem to really want to help out their customers while running a respectable business. read more

This place does great service every time. Their service is reliable, reasonably priced, and good quality.

Took care of my Mercedes GLE 350 like it was their own. Best service you can get on a repair, even better than Mercedes themselves. My car required major replacements and they gave it care I can trust. They have a private, gated parking lot, so your car is safe when staying overnight. They have skilled technicians that specialize in many different types of vehicles. There are friendly and helpful service writers handling the office. Their technicians include photos of the areas of concern so you can see the vehicle's problems yourself, with complete transparency. This helped me to make a well informed decision on what work is recommended/required. And to top it all off, it even came with a solid warranty. Can't beat that. I trust Toole's every time. This place is worth the cost. read more

Toole's Garage - Engine bay - Auto Repair Near Me - San Carlos, California

Overpriced and they love to GUESS on what might be happening, charge you for the guess and the parts and will just continue to guess until they have basically replaced the entire engine. And the parts they do repair are done horribly and cause more issues later on. read more

I recently had work done on my 2016 Lexus NX200t, and couldn't have been more pleased or grateful for the outstanding work that was done. Brakes were checked, a Drive Belt and the water pump were replaced, and the car was given a thorough safety check as well as a Brake System Evaluation. Marvin Guevara and Tom Joy were consummate professionals in answering questions I had, providing thoughtful hospitality as well as exceptional service care. I totally trusted their suggestions and will continue to have my car serviced there, confident that any issues that might occur will be dealt with with the same attention to detail as occurred on my visits to the garage. Five stars doesn't do Toole's Garage justice! read more

Had a check engine light on. They diagnosed the problem, gave me a quote and fixed it right away. They also did a thorough check of the car and found a few things that should be done. There was no pressure to do anything else to the car. read more

Untrustworthy - They take advantage of customers naivety Toole's installed a replacement catalytic converter and after installation, a light on my Dash was still on. They said drive it for a couple hundred miles and it'll go away. I said that didn't feel right but when they insisted, I took my car away. I drove it for couple hundred miles and the light was still on. I take the car back and they say "Oops, the light is on because we didn't install the catalytic converter properly. It's just 2-3 weeks old and under warranty so we will replace it for you, sorry about our mistake". I then get a call the next day saying, "sorry, your Water Pump is broken and that voids the warranty on the catalytic converter (that they didn't originally install properly). If you want the car road worthy, we need another $3000 for another catalytic and $1500 for water pump." Everyone I've talked to says that Water Pump has nothing to do with Catalytic Converter. If I am wrong, I'll remove the review, but car experts are telling me I got screwed here. read more

These guys are super knowledgeable and easy to work with. They knew exactly what the problem was just by listening to me try to explain and recreate the sounds my car was making with my mouth! Their follow up questions showed they knew exactly what I was talking about and what the solution was. They also have great technology where you can track the progress of your car and get text alerts along the way. They also were honest about what was needed and what was NOT. That's very important when working with an auto shop. I don't like doing unnecessary things and they didn't push any things that would just drive the cost up. Thumbs up! read more

Amazing customer service. Really honest and fair. Will use them again. Got me in for same day inspection.

I've brought my 2018 Subaru Outback to this shop for electrical problems and repairs. The staff are knowledgeable and friendly. They explain everything in detail, and have never pushed me to agree to extra services . Their pricing is fair. And turnaround time is as promised. I highly recommend this shop. read more

Four days to do a Hybrid battery because they didn't know to drive the car to clear the errors, blamed the battery. Ignored my other requests, happy to take $3400. I would go somewhere else. They seem nice, but in the end a disappointment. read more

SCAMMERS!!!!! I called them because I drove over a center median and my transmission pan was leaking fluid. Had my car towed over there because they said they could look at it. Once getting there I was told they might be able to get to it considering other people appointments.. which I totally understand but then why have me come? At the very end of the day I got a call stating I had engine damage and a few other things.. come to find out they had not even taken a look at the vehicle yet and were just guessing trying to get more money out of me. Took it elsewhere and just like I said the only issue was my transmission pan. SCAMMERS!!!! read more

Toole's Garage - Auto Repair Near Me - San Carlos, California

I took my car there in August and they did a complete electrical diagnostic system but found nothing wrong except the battery was completely dead which they replaced with a new one. I called them and told them the new battery keeps dying when I don't start the car for more than 3 days. The person I spoke to was giving me nothing but baloney and I told him they found nothing wrong with the alternator and the ignition system when they did a complete diagnostic test last month. The battery they sold me is no good and is defective. I will never take my car there ever again. I finally filed a complaint with the Bureau of Automotive Repair. read more

Amazing service, really nice people. You never have to feel you are being taken advantage of. Been in business for many years for a reason. They did quite a bit of work on my diesel truck. Work was done on time and at the cost they quoted me. Locally owned and managed by a team that runs a high quality shop with skilled technicians and mechanics read more

Had my first service with the folks at Toole's and it was nothing short if stellar. The intake process, quote and real time updates you can see on their work order tracking link is something all such service providers should have. I had enough of the overpriced dealer services and have been passively looking for a new shop for a few years. After a horrible first experience with The Benz Doctor, we decided to try Toole's and this is who we will partner with for our Mercedes needs moving forward. read more

I took my car in to get the air conditioning fixed, and they did a great job with that. I think the price was fair to a little bit on the high side but they were fast and easy to work with. In addition, they called out A LOT of things they recommended I do to fix the car. I ended up taking it elsewhere and the other garage added more context to the issues and told me to hold on getting them fixed because some of these things tend to happen to older cars but are just simple signs of age. And, of the "issues" actually was not an issue at all. So while I'm sure they mean well, I prefer to go to a repairman who's going to be honest with me about what TRULY needs fixing. I'm happy to have a list of suggestions but include caveats with what's necessary for the car to run safely vs what would make it almost brand new again. read more

We recently brought our Mini Cooper here rather than the original dealership in SJ (won't mention the dealership but pretty sure you can figure out) and found our so many issues that were not being addressed that Brad and Toole's shared. My best friend from the 80/90's is a mechanic (ASE Master) so I know good service and this "garage " is legit. If you are looking for an honest repair shop, I would recommend you take your vehicle here. read more

My car's AC hasn't been working for over a year. I've taken it to other shops and tried charging it myself but no dice. I thought I could just learn to live with it but then summer hit! Sean is very professional and thorough and explains everything clearly. Their quote includes photos of work that needs to be done also. My AC is now working great (how did I manage without one for so long?!) and Sean also helped me prioritize some additional repairs I need. I paid a bit more for their AC service than other auto shops quoted BUT they also provided more services. I'll take my car here again for its next repair. Great and professional work/communication. read more

I called Toole's for a second opinion on a quote from my Jeep Dealership. The person I spoke to was extremely courteous and helpful over the phone. He spent a lot of time explaining the service to me and breaking down what needed to be done even though this particular shop wouldn't be able to do the work themselves. They seem to be extremely knowledgeable and trustworthy. In the future, if there is work that I need done to my car, I am highly likely to utilize their services. read more

This place is a f**ing joke. I called, made an appointment to come at 2:30pm for an alignment service. When I got here they told me sorry buddy but we have to cancel your appointment because of some stupid ass excuse that didn't make any sense. I get things can go wrong with any business, but have a courtesy to call me, so I don't have waste half of my day. Unprofessional, unreliable, unaccountable, dishonest establishment! Will not recommend! read more

Toole's Garage - Auto Repair Near Me - San Carlos, California

My wife and I have been bringing our Prius to Toole's for over 10 years. I've worked with Brad who has done a good job of keeping the car healthy and up to date on service that needs to be done. I will say my only complaint is that I think they're a bit on the pricey side, but the trade off is that I know the job is being done correctly. They've got a great system for approving additional services for issues that the mechanic has found. I would recommend Toole's to anyone. read more

I'm a new customer to Tooles garage but it came highly recommended from some friends that have been taking their cars there for years. The customer service and communication from the front of the shop is amazing as well as the garage its self. No joke, take a look in the back and you'll find the cleaning most organized garage you've ever seen. As far ad $$$ goes their prices are more than fair and competitively priced. You don't feel ripped off or taken advantage of when you interact with pros at Tooles. read more

Always great service, and I like supporting a local family business. They always take great care of me and offer excellent follow-up service. Great guys (and gals)! read more

Had them change a headlight bulb and they charged me for 1.5 hours of labor because "that is what the book says". I felt it was rather expensive, but was in a jam as I needed to drive that night. When the bulb died again, I decided to take my car somewhere else to change the same bulb, and they charged me only $20. I think Toole's takes advantage of certain people. Beware! read more

I came in with an initial complaint. They solved it and gave me a great deal on everything. Highly recommend. Erik, Brad, and Beau were all great help and will be returning when I can. read more

I was invited to take my car in for an estimate for repairs. There were seven issues which they were prepared to address but wanted to charge me $259.99 per issue just for the inspection. That is $1800 just to tell me how much they will charge to repair the car. read more

I would never recommend this shop. The people working there were rude and clearly woman-phobic!!! They seemed extremely indifferent and apathetic to have been working behind the front counter. If you're looking for customer service....find somewhere else!!!!!!!!! They certainly don't instill a sense of confidence or trust. read more

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! Toole's Garage is an exceptional trustworthy auto repair shop that genuinely cares about cars. They have a helpful old-fashioned approach to service, combined with up-to-date technical support. They provide detailed information throughout the work progress, with ongoing comments, photos, and recommendations for service. Recommendations are ranked in importance, cost provided, and they carefully answer questions to help you with decisions on work YOU want accomplished - no pressure. On arrival I was welcomed by the knowledgeable and helpful Service Advisor Erik, and by chance, met the impressive founder and CEO Dave Toole. The outstanding technician Dillan provided comments and photos as his work progressed, and their well-organized shop activity is visible from the lobby. Their service information and website are informative and easy to navigate. If you are looking for an honest reliable shop for vehicle maintenance, (rare these days), we recommend TOOLE'S GARAGE as a top choice. Thank you. read more

Got appointment in a place close to this one . they cancel it . I end up in this place and I'm very happy they are just great the front desk girl was extremely nice the service was fast I will recommend this place for everything to do with your car read more

Very friendly, great communication about the process of fixing your car and reasonably priced!

I had to reread all the great reviews again, because my experience was not great, and seems inconsistent with the many reviews. I took my car in because I noticed oil leaking on the garage floor. They quoted me over $7000 (more than the car is worth) I took it elsewhere and they disputed Toole's findings. Said the oil cap was leaking and oil running down. The oil cooler O ring was leaking. I fixed myself with about $20 of parts. read more

One of the best services I got for my Civic Hybrid. They are honest and professional, and I highly recommend come here if you have any Hybrid problem. Bought used a few years ago, came to here and they found it a 1 year of warranty extended for the Hybrid battery. When I went to Honda, they were not aware of the warranty, and the manager went to look again and I was able to change the Hybrid battery with no charge. They have really cute collection of cars; So I'm sharing the pictures :) read more

See all

I took my Mercedes in to get the air conditioning fixed. They said they fixed it (for $300), but it was still blowing hot air. So, I took it back again and paid another $3,300 to fix it again, and it took them a week to do it. When I got it home, it was still blowing hot air. I took in a third time and was told that it would be done in one day. I get a call telling me they had to keep it overnight, and guaranteed it would be done the next day. I get a call the next day saying it still isn't ready for pickup. I spoke to a manager, and he tried to belittle me by asking me if I know anything about the mechanics of air conditioning systems, implying that if I did have this knowledge I would understand why I had to take the car in three times for the same repair. I used to recommend Toole's whenever someone on Nextdoor or other social media was looking for a good car repair shop. Not only will I never recommend them, I'll never do business with them again. read more

I would give Toole's a 5 Star Review. This week my car 2006 Avalon with only 58,000 miles- was making a new whining sound- which was difficult to track down. Sean, the Manager-told me they even used a stethoscope to try and find the source. The decided it may need a new water pump- since they noticed old leakage of coolant, and I gave them permission to do that. But today, they persisted even more, and when the engine was cold they determined the sound was coming from the transmission, not the water pump and they changed the fluid and the filter, and that seemed to take care of the problem. They will monitor the water pump in the future. His persistence saved us $ 1000 or more. We are very grateful for them only wanting to do only what was really necessary. Cammy Olson read more

I called on Friday afternoon with window that would not roll up and they were nice enough to take my vehicle in last minute late in the day on a Friday so I would not have to go the weekend with a non-closing window. Fair price - great service - nice clean waiting are with wifi, tv and coffee. Most of all nice crew of humans working there. Would definitely go back. read more

My windshield wiper fluid was not working and when I asked to have it checked out they said the system was clogged, and I needed a complete new system in my 2017 Subaru Outback, which they quoted around $600/700 as I recall. I had never had this happen in any car I've owned and I was not convinced, but they emphatically restated that I needed it. I waited for several months and finally decided to try a new mechanic. He told me a rat had chewed through the hose and fixed it for $45! I had been taking my car to Toole's for a couple years, and always felt their pricing was high and I have often had to wait way longer than they estimated the repairs to take. I'm glad I went elsewhere for a second opinion and will never return! Not trustworthy!! read more

Got the battery of my Lexus replace here the same day I called! Same day! They are fast and efficient. You can eat off the floor of this garage, that tells you a lot about a place. read more

I moved to California from ny about two years ago. I have been looking for a trustworthy place to take my car since arriving. I think I have finally found it! My car is old and always seems to have problems when I bring it somewhere. Although I had just been hoping to get an oil change today, I wasn't surprised when I was called and there were many maintenance issues. Trina at the desk was very patient, and thorough in her explanation of what work needed to be done. I also wasn't able to get to Toole's until after they had officially closed due to being stuck at work. They were understanding and able to accommodate my late pickup. When I arrived, I was pleasantly surprised to see that the cost was less then quoted. Overall, I had a good experience dealing with an annoying problem. Thanks to the staff at Toole's! read more

This review is Wife Approved. There is nothing I avoid more than sending my wife to auto mechanics. I've never understood why someone would open with the position of taking advantage of their customers, but more than once while traveling The Wife would call from the mechanic with the estimate and I told her to leave that conman and wait until I came home. But as usual, everything breaks when I leave on another trip. The Wife's car had a bad backup light and it needed to get fixed. I checked Yelp! (as usual) and saw Toole's Garage rated very well. Turns out it was for a reason. They were accommodating for scheduling, and when The Wife made it there, they greeted her warmly and were open and honest with the discussion. It was a quick repair and the dollar amount had substantially less than three digits. Whoa, this place plays the long game. Treat your customers fairly and warmly, charge them time and materials for simple tasks, and watch them come back with more business. Finally, a place where I can tell her to go when I'm on the road and she will be treated like a customer and not a mark. We'll be back again. read more

Do not take your car to Tooles Garage in San Carlos! A half star is even too nice. They made me buy an expensive part without even figuring out the problem. Ends up I did not need the part which they still made me pay for and they did not fix the original problem. When they tried to say I needed more parts to fix the problem I took my car to someone else much more capable and reasonably priced. Tooles would not return my original part to me when I asked, they most likely sold my working part to make even more money off of me. Toole's also kept my car 6Xs longer then they said they would need, I was told it was partly because they did a car inspection (which I did not ask for) and then they tried to sell me on several other services which were not needed. Toole's Garage will just try to charge you as much as they can and have no problem charging for unnecessary work, I would stay clear of taking your car here. When I tried to write this review on the Tooles Garage website it was rejected, looks like they only accept positive reviews. read more