Independent Auto Care

I do not know what other brands this shop works on. They have worked on my Honda and Nissan. I would call them to see what other brands they work on. I brought in a 96 Honda Civic that was purchased on the cheap, knowing that extensive mechanical work lay ahead. I asked for a compression check of the cylinders and it revealed that the engine was worthy of spending the money. The mechanic helped me decide what were priority/safety issues on the vehicle. Minor mechanical issues were put off for another time. Exhaust system was a total rebuild. I knew this going into the deal. Timing belt, water pump, seals, bearings, gaskets, valve timing, belts, torn engine mount, were at the top of the list. Speedometer was not working and many shops might have gone straight to the speed sensor on the transmission or behind the dash. The mechanic instead solved the problem by locating a bad fuse. Shop hourly rates are at or slightly lower than area shops. I was able to take advantage of a coupon. Diagnosis will be at the hourly rate. Any job, i.e. timing belt replacement will be at a quoted price for the job. I have enough background in mechanics to know if someone is trying to rip me off. The mechanic did not know this. The mechanic could have tried to sell me on fixing numerous things on this vehicle. Instead, he addressed the primary issues. Full itemized list of diagnosis and repairs was provided. I will use this shop for any future repairs.

I took my wife's Honda here for the 60K mile service because they were closer than the dealer. Not only did they get the work done faster than expected, they gave me a printout of all the checks they did along with what they found. They also tested my battery and showed me that it was in need of replacement. I ould strongly recommend these guys. They look to have over 12 years of specialized service with Acuras/Hondas/Toyotas. I plan on taking our Honda there from now on.

I asked Rick who runs Independent Auto to check out a used car for . The owner brought the car to him. He knew of my concern that the car may have had body damage. So, before he even started his inspection of the vehicle he called someone over from a nearby autobody shop to look at it. That person imedietely found that there had been some major work done. Rick then called me and told me about the damage and said he'd only charge me half of what he'd quoted me for the inspection. This was really helpful and honest and it kept me from bying a car that had some major repairs. Before the inspection I had asked the car's owners to split a "carfax" with me and they refused. Now I know why. "If the deal looks TOO good, it usually "is" too good." Thanks Rick.