Foreign Auto Specialties (Minneapolis, MN) Mechanic(s): Jerry Thompson
2601 Pleasant Ave. , Minneapolis, MN 55408 (612) 871-9476 Emergency: (612) 889-7240
Features and Specialties: Specializes in Transmission Work ,Specializes in Air Conditioning work ,Specializes in Brakes & Mufflers ,Specializes in Engine Rebuild Work ,Specializes in Radiator Work Saab

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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:

Jerry is the best mechanic I have ever dealt with. However, if you don't have a Saab, you're out of luck. He works by himself in an unmarked two bay garage, and only advertises by word of mouth (and occasional cards under Saab windshield wipers). He replaced my transmission for $1600 parts and labor, that Aamco was going to charge over $2000 for labor alone. Unfortunately, he's also in high demand so getting an immediate spot may be difficult.

Jerry is a great mechanic. He kind of a suffering artist type and you have to put up with his moods, but he does great work at great prices and underneath the arrogant attitude is a very nice guy. Not only does he fix the things you ask him to fix, but he does little things that he sees, like a worn out bushing or burnt out bulb, and doesn't tell you about it or charge you for it! He's very willing, because he has more work than he can handle, to tell you over the phone or in person how to fix something yourself. He knows Saabs inside and out - every little defect or wierd trait or bizarre recurring electrical short. He's all over it. He can listen to a rough idling engine, ask two questions and tell you exactly where the vacumn leak is or which sensor is shot. I shouldn't be saying all this because it's hard enough now to get an appointment and he works 9 hours a day, six days a week. The truly bizarre part of all of this is that he says he works on Saabs so he can afford to work on Porsches. Go figure.

I spent a couple of years driving an '89 Saab 9000 hatchback, which Jerry serviced several times. Everything from minor electrical stuff to an entire wheel assembly. Previous posts here are accurate in describing his surly demeanor and sometimes difficult schedule, but this guy knows Saabs better than most anyone in town, and certainly a lot better than you. His prices are incredibly fair, and if you can cut through his abrasive veneer, he seems very willing to talk to you in-depth about your options and minor work that you might prefer to tackle yourself. He is opinionated, that's for sure, and he will definitely scold you if you're not treating your car right, but I know I got more life out of my car for it. Jerry is chiefly responsible for my inclination never to go to a dealership again.

Jerry is a great mechanic. I have had only good experiences with him -- another reviewer said he is a suffering artist - that about hits it on the head. Don't let his occasional gruffness dissuade you. He is honest, really knows Saabs, and is willing to take the time to explain how they work and what is wrong. He is really a great guy.

We call Jerry the "Saab Nazi" after the "Souop Nazi" on Seinfeld. He makes a great repair soup at a reasonable price and once you get by his curt veneer, you'll appreciate his honesty, integrity, skills, and price. Highly recommended.

Just called Jerry about blown brake line problem. He knew who what when and where the problem was before I finished my questions. He was very helpful and gave good advice about what to do.

I'll join the group here and add that Jerry is a great mechanic. I came in to get a new battery and he ended up fixing my heater problem (the knob was broken), let me know what's up with my mirror problem, and not only diagnosed a problem with my exhaust studs and other under the hood items, he let me know the consequences of fixing or not fixing and told me when I should do it. If you have a Saab take it to Jerry. He'll take care of it at a fair price.

Knows Saabs and BMWs in all respects and will talk to you about any aspect of maintaining them as long as you seem to understand cars. Is honest and knows how to treat cars and customers.

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