Automotive Instincts (specialize in Acura, Honda, Toyota & Lexus) (Northridge, CA) Mechanic(s): Al, Steve Summers (owner)
8602 Lindley Avenue , Northridge, CA 91325 (818) 349-5900
Features and Specialties:

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Survey results:

They are always honest
They are competent
The repair price is always reasonable
They fix the problem the first time
They complete the work in a timely manner
They respond well when they screw something up
They take the time to explain the problems and necessary repairs
The shop is located in a safe neighborhood
The hours of operation are convenient for customers
They treat male and female customers in the same manner
They are near public transportation (or provide loaners, shuttle bus, rides as needed)

Reviewers Comments:

the car is always ready in the same day. when there is a problem, they tell it like it is... if the repair can wait for a few months or thousand miles, they say so. they never try to sell anything you don't need. they can recommend other places for other car service they don't perform. they know every customer's name and everyone gets a warm greeting. the shop is clean, neat and they have coffee in the morning and plenty o' magazines and a TV... they were recommended to me by a friend who won't buy any other type of car besides a honda or acura, because he does not want to deal with any other mechanic. i am now of the same mind. even getting an oil change anywhere else makes me crazy!

These guys are the best. They have factory trained honda technicians and always beat the dealership with price, and always use genuine Honda parts. They are very honest. They never do work that's unnecessary. They even tell you what you DON'T need to do. They do great work. I've taken my Hondas to them for over 15 years. I have never been unsatisfied.

I've been using Steve or his shop pretty much since 1977 on my Hondas. He now also does simple maintenance on some Toyota's. I've made alot of referrals to his shop because they are the best.

I have been servicing my car with Steve's Independent for over 6 years. They service Acura, Honda, Lexus and Toyota cars. They have expert, factory trained mechanics and service writers. Steve's is an outstanding repair shop in every respect. Recently, they have changed the name to "Automotive Instincts" -- but it's the same ownership and staff. There are 2 shops: one in Woodland Hills, CA and the other in Northridge, CA. I have used both shops. They are well known and highly regarded throughout the San Fernando Valley area of Los Angeles, and even though I do not live in the valley I drive quite a way from my home to get my car serviced there anyway -- even oil changes -- because I trust them to take excellent care of my car while being impeccably honest. As another customer has noted before me, they will tell you what work needs to be done now, and tell you what work can be safely deferred. Their prices are very fair, lower than the dealer, and importantly, they will not invent things that need repair as the dealer often does. There is no pressure here. Whether it's a timing belt and water pump change, new spark plugs or a brake job, the work is done right. If you are not happy with any aspect of their work, they will go out of their way to make it right. They are also a great resource if you are planning on buying a used car. They will spend almost 2 hours going through the car from top to bottom and bumper to bumper and give you a full report and their advice whether to buy or to pass. Just a week ago they inspected a 1998 Honda Civic EX that we were considering for our daughter. Steve's mechanics found, among other things, evidence of a very badly maintained automatic transmission, worn out suspension parts, even the wrong spark plugs (which are known to cause fires in some cars). All told, they found nearly $1,100 in deferred maintenance items; not including a water pump and timing belt change (83K miles) which would have added another $400 to bring the car up to snuff. All told, $1,500 to put the car right. Needless to say, we decided to pass on that car. The small fee we paid Steve's was well worth it. As others have noted, the place is clean, comfortable and well run. There are restaurants within walking distance. The phone number for the Woodland Hills shop is (818) 883-4172. Ask for Tom, Jason, Paul or Steve (Remember, their new name is"Automotive Instincts" -- same owners and staff)

I needed a competent mechanic who knew Nissans and was not a rip off. I asked many people and priced things twice but after reading the postings on cartalk.com about Steve?s Independent Acura/Honda I decided to call them up. I called and spoke with Paul who is super nice and explained everything before the work was done. I had them do complete timing belt job plus all the belts, water pump, thermostat, tensioners, gaskets etc. on my 2000 Nissan Frontier V6 crew cab. Paul gave me very fair price for the job and they did finish the job in a timely manner. These guys (Paul and Al) are pros after all they have been around for over twenty five years, although you might find cheaper mechanics elsewhere but you get what you pay for, so save yourself the headache and call them up for better than dealer quality work at the fraction of the cost. I would definitely recommend them to anyone in need of a great auto repair shop. P.S by the way they guarantee the work they do. Vic

I have been going to Auto Instincts (Which they changed their name from Steve's Independent) for over 2 years now and I honestly trust them. One thing my Dad always told me about mechanic shops is to see if their floors are clean. For some reason, he feels that if they keep things in tip top shape that they are usually on top of things, don't rip you off and are a ghood mechanic shop and Auto Instincts is. I am actually going there this morning for an oil/filter change. Whenever I do have an issue with my car they do tell me the honest truth of what is wrong with my car. I do have a older car so problems will arise with it. They are all super sweet too!! I don't think they take advantage of women which I am one. :)

The people who work there are very compassionate about what they do. They have great prices, and they are very friendly. I would recommend them to everyone. I have been bringing my cars here for years and so have my family and friends.

Amazing Service! Use them every time!

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