101 European
4.7 (154)
421 N Hwy 101, Solana Beach, CA 92075
(858) 345-1272
101-european.com
Claimed
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
Reviews
Reviews are sorted by relevance, with the most helpful and insightful feedback listed first for easy reference.
Ian Cutler
a year ago
I won't be coming back to 101 European. Outside of the the damaging the front grill, leaving the speedometer unplugged, and missing lug nut, the van wasn't aligned properly.When I brought it back, after receiving my van not driving correctly, I was dismissed and told to lower the tire pressure...In reality the caster off of by 7 degrees, camber -1.4 and the right tire toed out.I had this fixed elsewhere and the van drove fine afterwards.Even though some of the errors were minor, the lack of attention to the work leaves me without peace of mind that the other work was done correctly and paying for incomplete work all at at very high hourly rate will keep me from coming back.
Michael Hogan
4 years ago
101 European recently did extensive mechanical and electrical work on my 1967 Volkswagon Van. The work and customer service were ecellent! I plan to continue to use their services in the future. Special praise to Scott who personally did the mechanical and electrical work. Scott is a very talented mechanic.
John Howard
2 years ago
Phillip at 101 European is a consummate perfectionist when it comes getting the job done right. My 1955 Jaguar XK140 was mechanically restored to a better than new condition. I look forward to many years of enjoyment and doubt that anyone, anywhere could match his level of mechanical craftsmanship.Service: Auto engine tuningService: Auto engine tuning
Jon Thompson
a year ago
Had to tow my wife's 2013 Mini Cooper S to a body shop due to front end damage, and when I looked on the map, 101 European was the closest business that dealt with mini coopers and from what I could see had great ratings.From the initial inspection, all the way to recommended work to be done and final completion, Terry kept me well informed on the progress of the vehicle, and helped me save costs where possible which was an added bonus.This crew deal exclusively and extensively with the European auto market, and the ratings do not lie. It definitely shows in their quality of work, pricing, and overall customer communication.I will definitely be brining our cooper back here for more work in the future.Thanks guys! You rock!Services: Transmission, Auto tire replacement, Auto maintenance
Shelita Weinfield
a year ago
I inherited a 1969 Toyota Land Cruiser. I knew nothing about these classic vehicles. Terry was knowledgeable and helpful. They inspected the car and provided a list of needed repairs then completed the job as agreed. They communicated well during the process. Getting these vehicles repaired correctly calls for specialist. Glad i found 101 European. I did need to wait a bit to get in but it was worth the wait. My grandfathers vehicle will have a whole new life.Services: Carburetor cleaning, General repairs & maintenance, Auto engine diagnostic, Vehicle Inspection, Brakes, Vehicle safety inspection
Mike Mcinnis
3 years ago
Phil, Adam and Chase are the best in the business. Phil, the owner, and his son Adam are masters at fixing classic cars. They have turned my 64 Porsche 356 into a truly amazing machine. When I bought the car it had many issues and they've sorted out my car so it's running like I took a time machine back to 1964 and just drove this car off the lot. Both of these men have big hearts as well. Both stayed late on a Friday night to get my car ready for a car event I was attending the next day. Their service manager Chase is a great guy as well. So easy to deal with and always has a smile on his face or in his voice. Have enjoyed many car conversations with him and even attended a cars and coffee together. I consider all 3 of these guys my friends. This is by far the best classic car repair shop in San Diego....Services: Transmission, Carburetor cleaning, Exhaust, Tires, Steering & suspension repair, General repairs & maintenance, Electrical, Auto engine tuning, Engine repair, Brakes, Battery, Oil change
Olaf Wagner
2 years ago
I have taken my 1978 VW Bus to 101 European a number of times, and each time they have been tremendous in diagnosing any problems, sourcing parts quickly and completing the job much faster than any expectation. Also I have dropped off my vehicle unexpectedly more than once, and each time they were willing and able to resolve the issue quickly. I would highly recommend 101 European.Service: General repairs & maintenance
Paul Fiskness
2 years ago
A quick update to my earlier comment below: The rebuilt alternator failed after a couple weeks and 101 European covered a "re re build" under warranty. One more reason to do business with 101 European.Had my alternator / generator rebuilt on my 63 356 Porsche. (Feels like they also adjusted my brakes and clutch although nothing on the invoice - but that's how these guys roll !). Car was washed and detailed before delivery. Car runs and sounds great. (Shifts and stops better too !). Would highly recommend European 101 for you collector car. Been taking my 356 there for years.Service: Electrical
Garrett Schmid
3 years ago
I have been going to 101 European for many years and have great experiences with oil changes and annual services but yesterday's experience was very unfortunate. I took the car in for a check engine light and a general service and while diagnosing the problem, they found oil on a small valve that attaches to the turbo. Without checking if the part works, they told me they were going to buy a new one and install it. The part was installed and the issue was not resolved. They continued to test the turbo and did not discover the actual cause of the issue before giving me back the car. $1000 later, the issue was not resolved and no pinpoint diagnosis, other than "the turbo doesn't work", was given (which was noted before I took the car in).In my opinion, I think they made a mistake replacing and making me pay for a new valve only because oil was found on the outside. This part, which attaches via 3 screws should have been tested before being deemed as malfunctioning. Overall, I payed a ridiculous amount of money for no fix or diagnosis to the original issue. After $1,000 the only outcome was a tire rotation and a calibration of the tire sensor. Nice guys but poor systematic approach. Luckily the turbo is under warranty via Volkswagen but it would have been nice to know that before the service...
Shawn Schuette
2 years ago
Have been taking my Morris Minor Traveller her for years. One of the few places that can actually do the work requested. Highly recommend.Services: Auto engine tuning, Engine repair, Oil changeServices: Auto engine tuning, Engine repair, Oil change
Karen Hynes
2 years ago
I went in for an oil change. They sent me an estimate with the signature line underneath the oil change pricing estimate. I signed the estimate, not seeing the 3rd page which had an additional $600 of work as "recommended". Since I did not authorize that "recommended" work, I was shocked when they charged me almost $1,000 for the work I did not approve.I was a previous customer who had brakes and other services done before this incident. I will never return to this garage.Service: Oil change
Margi Barkwell
2 years ago
I ve been taking my Mini Cooper to 101 European the last 3 years since I ve moved to Cardiff and they have transformed my opinion on getting my car serviced. Their customer care combined with expertise is unmatched. Very grateful to have Adam and the entire team at European 101 just down the street!Services: Tires, Oil changeServices: Tires, Oil change
Eric Larson
2 years ago
Repaired our Audi A8L. Diagnosed a whistle sound and an engine light and fixed in a very timely manner. Friendly, beyond competent, fair and very good communicators. Would confidently recommend.Services: General repairs & maintenance, Auto engine diagnosticServices: General repairs & maintenance, Auto engine diagnostic
Gary Sernaker
2 years ago
The service at 101 is exceptional. Their techs saved me from experiencing a much more serious problem before it occurred. I have been able to keep my 2007 Cayman in perfect condition with their support. This is the place to have first class service.
Jon Fraser
3 years ago
My car was starting to feel like it was going to have problems or the engine light was going to pop on sooner than later. Not only that, it was extremely dirty and felt worn down, like after working out too long without a break or shower. 101 European not only fixed my car up to feel brand new, but they cleaned it so it actually looks brand new too. Never ever hesitate to take your car into 101 European. They'll even help you find a ride home if you do not have one! <3Services: Transmission, Air & cabin filter replacement, General repairs & maintenance, Auto engine tuning, Auto detailing, Auto interior vacuuming, Battery, Oil change
Brian Bender
3 years ago
Had my Triumph fine tuned, timing and Weber s, at 101 European Service in Solana Beach. Really happy with results, Phil really knows what makes these British cars perform. Really nice people all around. All makes of quirky European cars were there being cared for.
Dan Kinney
4 years ago
Phenomenal first time client tune up appt was great. All involved were very kind, and I appreciated a very hands on 30 minutes with Adam at the pickup to get a much needed lesson on our 71 VW bus. Great experience.
Mary Brooks
5 years ago
For years 101 European has provided our family with excellent service. They're communicative, honest and extreamly hard working. With owning older cars I know it can be tricky and finding parts isn't always easy but they seem to always pull through. I wouldn't take my cars anywhere else.
Karin Brock
2 years ago
I have a 21 year old Saab hard to find anyone to work on my car. I ve tried to take it to people who only work on Saabs and that has been a challenge at times. Every time I ve needed help with an issue and couldn t find a Saab guy, 101 European has been able to do a fantastic job in a timely manner and not gouge me at all. I m happy to pay for their expertise and they do know what they re doing.And they waxed my car! She was purring inside and out!I m not going anywhere else. These guys are my guys from now on.Services: Steering & suspension repair, Transmission repair, Car waxing
ATKOGA G
4 years ago
Who knew having a check engin light come on meant you knew you were going to have a great experience! At 101 European that is the feeling everytime we have to take a car in for any repair or diagnostic testing. The team is 100% capable of giving you an accurate, fairly priced report and undestanding of what is the next step towards the well being of your vehicle. Thanks for being my top shop! I enjoy every visit! Keep up the great work.
James Greer
3 years ago
I'm a 20+ year customer so might be "biased", covering 4 different models of old Mercedes that I've owned and had "101" keep up-to-shape. Presently its a 1982 300TD in near-mint condition. My comfort with 101 is their knowledge. If you are interested in preserving an older value;e car, this is the spot.Service: BrakesService: Brakes
Christine Evans
2 years ago
101 did an excellent job of figuring out what that red warning was on my dashboard. Fixed the problem with some basic light bulb replacement and software update. Dealership wanted to order a brand new computer board with cost over $3800. Thank you 101!Services: General repairs & maintenance, Auto engine diagnosticServices: General repairs & maintenance, Auto engine diagnostic
steve adler
2 years ago
Our '69 VW Bug is now running like new after Adam addressed issues with carb settings and timing. Hard to find a place to work on a VW this old, so very happy to have discovered 101 European. Everyone I met there was courteous, professional and helpful. They are my go-to repair shop for the VW now.Services: General repairs & maintenance, Oil changeServices: General repairs & maintenance, Oil change
Greg Oswell
9 years ago
As always Phil and his team quickly accommodated my unannounced visit and had the inspection performed and repair estimate ready in short order.While we would like to say that we wish the costs were lower we can not honestly complain about it considering we are talking about a vintage vehicle (1968 Porsche 912). Additionally Phil is almost savant like in his knowledge of our not-so-common car which really inspires confidence in his recommendations.We have been taking our car here for almost three years now and I honestly can't imagine trusting it to the care of anyone else.
Jill Van Dusen
6 years ago
As a newer resident to Solana Beach I didn't know where to take my car to get it buffed from me scraping against pole. I read the reviews and BAM, I knew 101 European Automotive was the place to go. I immediately was impressed with the very clean shop and greeted by a nice young man who kindly acknowledged and helped me. I was so surprised they worked on my car immediately without an appointment. My small auto repair was taken care of without a huge auto repair price! I'm thrilled to have a local place to bring my Lexus.
Valerie Stoldt
3 years ago
This is the only shop I care to take my Porsche to. I feel like I am bringing my Porsche to family for the quality care my baby needs. The staff go out of their way to make certain I am comfortable and happy with the work and allow me to be envolved with the restoration my Porsche. I am thrilled with 101 European.Services: Auto engine diagnostic, Wheel alignment, Brakes, Oil changeServices: Auto engine diagnostic, Wheel alignment, Brakes, Oil change
Cami Mattson
4 years ago
I am always impressed by the technical expertise and customer service of 101 European. From simple maintenance to complex restoration, they are the best. I also appreciate getting a nice clean car back every time I take it in for service. Thanks team! Cami
Paul Rios
6 years ago
This shop is the best! I had a window wiper issue and was told by another shop I had to replace the whole unit at a cost of $400.00 plus labor. Took it to 101 Automotive and they determined some wires were crossed. $35.00 and it works perfect. I highly recommend this shop!
Bob Berman
3 years ago
My car, a 2001 Porsche Carrera 4 Cab, was an invisible wreck. I'd just bought it from a dealer, thought the ride was rough, and wanted the guys at 101 to check it out. The dealer's mechanics had little interest in such an old vehicle and didn't even bother to give it a cursory check or send me a report what might go wrong with it. It was low mileage and had been sitting more than driving, so there were multiple problems traceable to that, not to mention the IMS system, which I knew nothing about and had a good chance of blowing the engine. They went through my car with surgical precision, wrote me a detailed quote, had the car on a lift for a week, now its a joy to drive. Thanks 101, your attention to detail and mechanical abilities are amazing!Service: Steering & suspension repair
Howard Feldman
3 years ago
Have gotten excellent service for two decades. From Amy on the phoneto all the owners and all the technicians. They have serviced Saab, Jaguar and Audi cars for me. They are competent, honest and it feelss more like a classic American family owned business versus a giant dealership.