Model Garage, Inc.

Reviews

Reviews are sorted by relevance, with the most helpful and insightful feedback listed first for easy reference.

  Kathleen Hulguin
2 months ago
i was unsatisfied with my first visit to model garage but robert was kind enough to offer the same service months later to make up for it. staff was courteous and gave a detailed report on my car and its potential issues. i appreciate their dedication to keep their customers satisfied. due to my experience, i would recommend to others to ask for a quote for service beforehand

  Leah Athena
4 months ago
Genuinely excellent place of business. After someone attempted to steal my CRV, my insurance adjuster told me to pick whatever repair shop I wanted, and I'm so grateful I trusted the other positive reviews for Model Garage. They were attentive, courteous, and patient while going through my insurance (which took forever), made sure to contact me with any updates or questions, and were kind and understanding with all snags along the way. No attempts at coercing me into additional services. I deeply appreciate their service and would recommend 100%!

  Christopher Rossi
4 months ago
These guys get it right! First time bringing in my car. I was able to schedule my appointment online. They did a thorough inspection but did not beat me up with everything they found. They prioritized the list and explained everything. Plus 100K service was under $300. We will definitely be back. Thanks!

  Margaret Villeneuve
4 months ago
The management and service personnel at the garage were friendly, helpful and efficient. The repairs on my car were completed in one day and my car was kept in a secure place so I could pick it up at a convenient time. Thank you to Doreen who dealt with the insurance company! I am completely satisfied by the entire experience. I highly recommend this garage! Thank you!

  W. A. B
a year ago
Best place to take your car if you want honest, skilled and detail-oriented mechanics and staff. I used to take my Subaru here before I sold it and recently did a used vehicle inspection on a lemon from Carvana, (steer clear!!).. Model Garage saved me again! I wish they worked on vintage cars! I would pay double!! Service: Vehicle InspectionService: Vehicle Inspection

  Peggy Sue
a month ago
I have always had excellent experiences at this garage. They ve done well priced and thorough work without adding on things I didn t need. A+ recommended.

  elanita korian
4 months ago
Another 5 star review!Everyone was helpful, efficient, honest, andWe brought our Toyota Matrix in for some big repairs. Robert and his staff walked us through every step of the way. They helped make a stressful situation easy and we appreciate it. Highly recommend!

  Samantha Ready
6 months ago
Went here per recommendation of a friend, and was not disappointed! Got my 70k service for my Subaru Forester and had many questions answered.The service was a competitive price with honest & detailed feedback. I was impressed with the quality of service and professionalism at Model Garage, and I would trust Ernesto with any future needs. Will def be back.

  Alicia Biersteker
4 months ago
I am always confident that my car is well serviced and that my questions are answered and my priorities are factored into the maintenance strategy. Thank you Robert and team for taking such excellent care of me and my vehicles!

  Anthony Padua
6 months ago
I've been going to these guys ever since moving to Berkeley. No fuss and honest. They always do a great job with servicing on my Subaru Crosstrek. I just drop it off in the morning and pick it up later in the day. Reasonable pricing.Services: Tire rotations, Auto maintenance, Oil changeServices: Tire rotations, Auto maintenance, Oil change

  Bart Tinkelenberg
8 months ago
I have a Toyota truck that is 20 yrs old with 220,000 miles on it. It was time to make a decision about rebuilding, replacing my engine. After researching, I needed to find a mechanic(s) that I felt I could trust on all levels. This is a very important decision to make since there are choices as well as the expense of following through. I interviewed a couple of referrals, but didn t feel comfortable, for various reasons. I came across Model Auto Repair and read the reviews. From the phone call to my first impression upon meeting staff, I really felt like I was in good hands. Everyone I engaged with was friendly and welcoming. I was even greeted when I returned to leave the car. That cinched it for me! They even work in tandem with a car rental that picked me up, and brought me back when I picked up my car. They kept me updated throughout, after they helped me make my decision with the choices. My truck runs like new! I feel very confident in my recommending Model Garage.

  Gary Cady
5 months ago
Great buisness. Absolutely My new go-to garage for my vehicles needs. Friendly staff, fast turnaround, very competent work. More than fair pricing as well.Service: General repairs & maintenanceService: General repairs & maintenance

  Kathryn Poethig
4 months ago
We moved to Walnut Creek but I manage the rush hour to get my car to Model Garage. They are fair, so very competent, and like friends. Who would want to change with that?Services: General repairs & maintenance, Wheel alignment, Oil changeServices: General repairs & maintenance, Wheel alignment, Oil change

  W.B. Peale
4 months ago
Sad to hear that Model Garage is no longer handling repairs on 2016+ Volvos. But for that disappointing news, I would have given my latest service visit a solid 5 stars!

  Chris Chour
9 months ago
Stellar. I was recommended to this place place and my experience was one of my best experiences with a auto shop from my initial call to the delivery of my car (2012 Prius). The owner Robert and his staff were all such a pleasure to deal with. Robert gave me the info straight with no BS. His timeline was on point, diagnosis was on the dot, he was very clear about the work that needed to be done for my car and the price was better than going to the dealership (with a discount). Additionally, he wants to ensure his work so he asked me to drive my car a little and drop by so he could double check all the work they did was up to his standards (free of charge), exceptional service!I highly recommend Model Garage for anyone that needs work on their vehicle(s). I will be taking my car there for any additional items in the future if needed.Thank you Robert & the Model Garage team!!

  John Kittredge
8 months ago
Model Garage is a Berkeley institution that I finally got to experience in all its glory this week. My Toyota ended its initial free maintenance period and my old mechanic has retired so I was comparing local shops to the dealership for my 30,000 mile service. Model Garage substantially beat the local dealer both in price as well as attitude and experience.Model Garage was quick to quote, fit me in exactly when I wanted, and provided a friendly, efficient & spotlessly clean experience for a very fair price considering this is the SF Bay Area.They were friendly to me and my dog, completed the work quickly, and made drop-off and pick-up painless and quick. It was FUN taking my car there.Compare this to the local dealer where simply getting a quote in person was a dingy, unpleasant experience and even with all the *discounts* and *special incentives* the price was substantially more expensive.Model Garage certainly lived up to its stellar reputation on my visit and I look forward to having it serviced there for a long time. There's no reason to take your car anywhere else.

  Rodney Evans
6 months ago
I purchased a 2001 Camry that had not been driven in years. Model Garage performed an inspection , identified and repaired several issues with this car. I m totally satisfied with the work performed by Model Garage., Excellent customer service

  Mark Gardner
4 months ago
I have found Model Garage to be a trustworthy provider of quality auto service and repair. Robert and staff go out of their way to help customers with their car problems.

  Jorge Iriso
8 months ago
We are so happy we found The Model Garage. We own a Prius and a Volvo, so it s perfect for us. Very attentive personnel, excellent service to the car, and without any unnecessary upselling like some other places. Our only regret, is that we didn t find it earlier. And they are super nice too.Services: General repairs & maintenance, Vehicle InspectionServices: General repairs & maintenance, Vehicle Inspection

  Todd Larson
8 months ago
I recently had a catalytic converter protection kit installed on my Prius. The folks at Model Garage were super friendly and did a great job. I ll definitely be returning when my care needs service. Thanks to Robert and the team!

  Kristine Skeldon
9 months ago
Model Garage has been handling all the repairs and maintenance on my Lexus for several years. The repairs included al the damage done two years ago when the vehicle was stolen and used for nefarious deeds. Robert, Doreen and staff repaired the running gear and arranged for needed body work. The vehicle was returned in better condition than when I had purchased it as a used car 8 years ago. Additionally they have been a great resource when looking to purchase another vehicle. The staff is straightforward, knowledgeable and easy to work with. Great service at a much reduced price when compared to dealership.

  Louise Music
6 months ago
Many years ago when I drove Volvos I went to model garage in the days of Don and Pete. Now, returning with my 2019 Subaru I find the same care and competence and friendliness and attention to safety and detail from Robert, Ernesto and the gang that give me confidence and peace of mind.Thank you Model Garage Team.Services: Tires, General repairs & maintenance, Vehicle Inspection, Oil change

  Filmon Aron
10 months ago
I recently had my catalytic converter stolen, leaving me in a frustrating situation. However, the team at this garage provided outstanding service and repaired my car with great expertise at a reasonable price. They efficiently replaced the stolen catalytic converter along with the protection sheld and had my vehicle back on the road in no time. The staff were super friendly, knowledgeable, and kept me informed throughout the process. I highly recommend Model Garage for their exceptional service and quality repairs. Thank you!

  elsa pong esch
8 months ago
I got my catalytic converter replaced there in Jan and Darleen was so helpful that I brought my Prius plug-in back for an oil change this week. The staff was so attentive and I got my car back after a few hours. The price is on the higher side but I feel I can trust them not to sell me anything I don t need, like I sometimes feel at the dealer. Jiffy Lube is cheaper but I like that Model specializes in Toyotas. My car is 135k miles so I want to keep it with a shop that understands the brand and can provide good advice as I know I m nearing some major repairs like new battery, etc.

  Faith Personal Training and Hypnotherapy
a month ago
I had to call Robert to ask him a quick question about my car. He spent atleast 10 minutes with me diagnosing and explaining the solution. Thanks to his patience, expertise and clear explanation, I was able to fix it myself. I completely value how he respects me as a woman customer. He is non condinesding and super helpful. Thanks !

  Audrey Taylor
9 months ago
Everyone I ve spoken to at the Model Garage has been super kind and helpful. Both times I ve been in it s been efficient and affordable. Not to mention they were the only shop I could find in the bay that would take my car (it s an old Lexus) Great people & great shop all around.

  Jane Ashland
8 months ago
I've been having my cars serviced at Model Garage for a long time now. Wouldn't dream of going anywhere else. They are courteous and efficient and my car purrs when they are done. Model Garage is a neighborhood business that you can rely on!

  Margaret Mayo
4 months ago
Had a great first experience with The Model Garage with my Honda. Extremely fair and clear with pricing.

  Lorraine Lee
7 months ago
I do not write reviews often, but I think this review may help struggling car owners like me, and I think I owe Robert, the owner of Garage Model, a "THANK YOU."My Volvo XC 70 has had the "check engine." message for the last few years. My late husband had taken it to a mechanic shop in Daly City. The mechanic always told him to ignore the signal and drive it. Last time smog check, he told us to put Oxicat in the fuel, and luckily, we passed the smog check. He explained that we had been accumulating dirt in the tank using regular gasoline. This dirt eventually blocks the exhaust pipe and causes smog. My car also hesitates to go forward uphill. He said the dirt blockage caused that hesitation. He recommended replacing two parts. Sorry, I do not entirely understand which parts, but it would cost me $6000 approximately. I trusted him and told him to go forward. I took my car to his shop on 7/10/2023 and followed up with him every week. He told me he had been busy; two months passed by. I called him on 9/8/2023; he said my car had a transmission problem and needed to send the part to a place to repair it. This repair cost is an additional $6000. I finally realized that guy did not know how to fix my Volvo.I eventually googled and found Model Garage. Robert, the owner, diagnosed my car and found the problems the same afternoon I towed it to them. The vehicle responded abnormally because of the malfunctions of the LEAK DETECTION PUMP AND FUEL PRESSURE SENSOR, sending wrong messages to the car. There was nothing wrong with my car mechanically. I probably will pass the smog check when it is due next year. Robert fixed my car in two days.I have come a long way to get my car back as I used to. So I want to say "THANK YOU, Robert.................................."Services: Electrical repair, Exhaust, Auto battery replacement

  Theresa T
9 months ago
Great Experience. They care for our Toyota and Honda Service is easy to schedule online and they are very accommodating with dropping off and picking up.Friendly staff and reasonable prices for excellent customer service!Services: Tire rotations, Vehicle Inspection, Wheel alignment, Oil changeServices: Tire rotations, Vehicle Inspection, Wheel alignment, Oil change