Autoworx Castro Valley
This is your dealership alternative. I want to preface this review as someone who came from the automotive service industry. I know what its like to work from both behind the counter and under the car in the shop. Other than the cost, because it is what it is, cars will always cost money. Their shop labor rate is super competitive, and the price-to-expertise/workmanship ratio is top notch. While I only came in for simple maintenance, I can tell from the conversations between the advisors and the technicians that they know what their doing. There are 3 things you should look for in a shop: transparency, hospitality, and culture. Transparency - While I only came in for maintenance, during the inspection they found a nail in my tire. Not the first thing we want to hear, but it is what it is. When I asked if I could get a photo of the puncture, they walked me to the shop and showed me my vehicle and the puncture. We reviewed my options, and when it came to making my decision to only replace the punctured tired, they respectfully proceeded without being too pushy on selling them as a pair or with an alignment. (I had just replaced the tires a year ago, and given the difference in tread depth, I replaced one. If the difference was a little greater, I would have gone with both.) Hospitality - The waiting room is comfortable, clean, and offers refreshments while you wait. Upon arrival, I was warmly greeted and welcomed in. Even when we took a trip to the shop where I could observe the tire, I was welcome to look in. As a former technician, I understand the unwanted pressure of being observed while working, so I wanted to respect that as well. The shop itself is orderly and organized. Culture - Communication across management, advisors, and the shop seemed clear and consistent. I've worked at and been at other shops and service centers where you can feel the air is tense, or that there's a wall between departments. Not here. While no one likes sitting and waiting for their car, if you do need to here, it's a welcoming and comfortable environment. And that tells me that the relationship between the departments is definitely on the healthier side. At the end of my appointment, we went over other findings during the inspection and photos were also provided for some control arm bushings that were cracking. Again, the transparency is super appreciated. I did not feel any pressure to get things done, and so it felt like they were genuine about caring for my car. I will return and recommend this shop to others. If you want a solid alternative to going to the dealership, this is the place. Thank you to my advisor Gordon, and my technician Russell.