Back to Auto Repair shops near me in La Mesa, CA

Auto repair shop - Paw Automotive Service Center - in La Mesa

66 reviews

Location: 8230 Commercial St , La Mesa, CA 91942

Office phone

+1 (619) 466-7776

4.7

66 total

(3)

(1)

(2)

(2)

(58)

10/02/2016

Paw is one of the most loyal places to take your car. My family has been servicing with them for years. They are always honest and welcoming. I am so thankful for Brian for taking the time to look up my cars warranty before just working on it and charging me. That shows a lot about the servicing center and that they value loyalty to their customers. So thankful for that! Thank you Brian!

Shawnda N.

Source: YELP

29/07/2016

I was referred to PAW by a friend and was not disappointed. I stopped in a week ago to see if they would able to fix my air conditioner. I had no appointment but they welcomed me and had the estimate for me within the hour. John and his team's friendly, no pressure service was refreshing; I felt like I had been taking my car there for years. I picked up my car that evening. (I'm pretty sure they stayed late to finish the work.) I will definitely be taking my car back to PAW Service Center!

Erin J.

Source: YELP

03/09/2015

I decided to take my `98 Land Cruiser to PAW to have it aligned. I dropped it off when they asked, they called me and told me they needed to have it overnight. I obliged. When I got it back the next day, it wasn't completely within spec, they charged me $40 more than they quoted ($100 total) and it still drifted slightly.
So a week passes and my alignment gets progressively worse. I decide to take it back to them to fix. I drop it off at 10AM and I didn't get it back until 5:30PM. They report to me it's the best they can do and that they spent a total (both days) of 4 hours on my truck with not being able to fix it. At this point, I just want my truck back and now I'm on the hunt to find a real alignment company.
Not sure about the rest of their services but if you need an alignment, don't take your truck here. They will do an "almost" good job for you.
In response to their response (12/9/15): First off, I told them that I had aftermarket suspension on my vehicle, hence the reason why I came to them in the first place for the alignment. And if having aftermarket suspension is something you do not specialize in, then you shouldn't have accepted the job. 2nd, don't charge more for something you couldn't pull off. Even if I did pay you more, you obviously don't have the capabilities to get it right. 3rd, I have taken my vehicle to another shop and now it's good.

Hilary P.

Source: YELP

05/10/2015

So grateful I was referred to PAW. I just had my alignment fixed but was so impressed by how friendly everyone was, how quickly they got me out of there and the fair pricing that I'll definitely be back. They charged me about $10 less than the lowest quote I had AND my bill was the exact price they quoted me. No extra charges, no tax even. He really told me how much it would be and that's what I paid. My car is old so I'm sure I'll have a more helpful review when something serious goes down. See you then Yelp.

Teekay J.

Source: YELP

09/11/2015

Brian and everybody there are great. They will explain in detail what is wrong and do not pressure you to 'do it now!' . I'd definitely recommend them!

Christine F.

Source: YELP

08/11/2015

PAW Service Center was recommended to me by someone in the car repair business. I need an inspection of a car I was interested in buying from a nearby car dealership and they inspected the car the same day I called.
John, the owner was highly professional and reviewed the items which needed to be repaired, the possible repair cost, and the priority of repair. Everyone at the service center was friendly and professional and I would highly recommend PAW to anyone who needs their services.

Frank B.

Source: YELP

22/12/2015

I had a stripped/ frozen rim stud and I was referred to PAW. I called and reached Brian and he was extremely professional, knowledgable and polite. He explained how it would be repaired and how much time it would take. I received the 1st appointment the next day and was out within 40m. Great job PAW!

Rob Paradise ..

Source: YELP

29/03/2016

Hey guys...what can I say...these guys are cool...the tech lets you know what's going on...Brian, always there...whether you just call with a question, or you need to get in and out..he makes it all happen there. Right now, for me...they're pretty close to perfect (close, because I don't want the old man behind the desk to get complacent...LOL) Thanks

Steven G.

Source: YELP

19/07/2015

I have been bringing my vehicles to John for more than 10 years. Even when I see a coupon elsewhere, I'd rather take my car somewhere I can trust (even if it costs a few more dollars.) He is honest, his staff is professional, he will work with you to make the entire process convenient for you (even pick you up and drop you off) He has been in the business for so many years, he is definitely knowledgeable on all makes and models. He doesn't give you the run around and he will give you his word that the work will be done right!! I have referred a few friends to him and he has made them happy customers too!

Shanah C.

Source: YELP

09/09/2015

I went here for the first time this week and just loved the staff. They explained everything wrong with my car so I could understand and were so accommodating to my schedule. They drove me home and worked overtime to get the work finished by the time I needed the car back. Thank you! I will definitely be coming back!

M S.

Source: YELP

20/11/2015

This was my first trip to PAW and I will not be going anywhere else. They truly want to make sure they do repairs right the first time. My repair was costly and took a few days, but they kept me informed and even fixed a few things extra while they were in there that will help me out in the long run. Brian and John are both awesome. I am glad to have found a mechanic that I honestly feel I can trust.

Julie S.

Source: YELP

20/10/2013

The people here are super nice! Great service... The location might look sketchy but it's a pretty safe environment. Groupon has some deals on em! Check em out

Cristina d.

Source: YELP

30/09/2014

Been coming here for awhile for my Hyundai Elantra and I have never been disappointed. Always friendly service, honest owner and employees, and they always get the job done right and in a timely manner. Went to the dealership once for a repair/maintenance and I learned my lesson after one visit. Come to these guys. They will treat you right and not rip you off.

Joseph N.

Source: YELP

23/06/2015

I have taken my vehicles to John for the last 10+ years. He runs a very professional shop. Not the cheapest in town but the work is top notch and his employees are honest and friendly.

B D.

Source: YELP

02/06/2014

So when I first brought my car in I was taking a chance on getting my car fixed right away. The check engine light was flashing, and as single mother with only one vehicle I was in a panic. It was my birthday weekend and sometimes it seems nothing goes right. I spoke with Andy and John, the owner, and was honest with them about my situation. The fact that I had been taken by mechanics in the past, because they don't think a woman knows any better. They not only took my car in, reassured me that they were not that way, took me to work and had my car done before my son got out of school. In addition, knowing that I have an older vehicle gave me a list of things that were going to pose a problem, and the order in which it needed to be fixed. I have been bringing my car in since September, and this weekend my alternator went out on the freeway. They weren't open, of course, but first thing this morning they arranged a tow, fixed my car, did the oil change and once again had my car ready to go before school lets out.
BOTTOM LINE... I FEEL LIKE I HAVE A FAMILY THERE, AND THEY TAKE CARE OF ME GENUINELY!!!!! I have recommended them to all my clients. How refreshing never having to worry!!!!!!!!!!.

Adrien M.

Source: YELP

05/11/2013

I have been a client of PAW Service for 4 years and drive from Pacific Beach to La Mesa for the quality of service, staff friendliness & experience.
My schedule is busy and each time PAW makes a huge effort to accommodate my schedule. I refer all my friends and colleagues to PAW.

Loretta W.

Source: YELP

10/04/2015

I have known John for several years. John runs an excellent automotive repair shop that includes knowledgeable and friendly staff. I have referred customers to John and have had the confidence that he took good care of them with an honest and timely matter. I highly recommend this shop for your general reapir needs.

Annette W.

Source: YELP

28/12/2013

Sorry guys, but you're a rip off. I was going to you because I had a groupon, and on my last visit, you told me I needed to have my engine flushed for $500 or something crazy like that. My brother is a mechanic for the CHP so he must know a little something about cars.... He about died when I told him about my engine needing to be flushed. Rip-off! I would have kept coming back to you guys even though it takes 2 hours to get an oil change WITH an appointment, but after that, I have nothing nice to say about you.

Diana H.

Source: YELP

06/09/2012

I've been here 2 times before- those visits were friendly and easy, even though I had to come back for wipers because they didn't have them in stock. This third time was a disaster.
Went in for brakes. Had to spend 4.5 hours and had to pay twice as much as I expected because I had the unfortunate and rare problem of needing new calipers-for a 2010 car. Really?
All employees, including the owner, need to be trained in polite, professional communication between colleagues and customers. It's not okay for customers to overhear employees being rude to other vendors and hanging up on them. It's not appropriate for the woman in the office to be passive-aggressive with the a/c and turning it up to 80 degrees every 20 minutes, especially when it is 95 degrees outside. It's embarrassing for employees to be bitching to the boss about how she is micro-managed by another team member in the front office.
My visit was inefficient and even the boss argued with me that brakes take time and I am expecting too much. Yet, the job was described when the appointment was made. The make and model of my car was given and my service record was on file-yet none of those were referred to. I wasted 1.5 hours waiting for parts because they were not ordered before my appointment, and were not even ordered until 2 hours into the appointment. That is completely unacceptable. The guy offered me a $5 off coupon for my next visit. Um, no.

Selena R.

Source: YELP

17/08/2013

I went to this place recently to get work done and they did the work but screwed up my car. It's nothing major, I hope. I'll be taking it to my regular mechanic to get it looked at. These guys serviced my car,and my stereo sounds weird, my passenger window won't roll up.
I call and tell them what happened and the guy offers to send me directions on how to fix something...his mechanic did? For real?
No, "Bring it we'll take care of you." They want me to do it myself. WTF?!
I paid them to do a service and THEY mess it up, and now you want ME to fix it?
I went to them because the service was cheaper, but cheaper isn't always better.
I'm never going back to that place, EVER!
Maybe they have treated other people right, but they EFFED me over.
I wouldn't recommend them to my worst enemy...or maybe I would. I am not some soccer mom who doesn't know sh*t.
These guys aren't going to nickel and dime with stuff their mechanic "FORGOT" to do.
My advice: if your service is too expensive take the time and do your homework on other shops. I had to have it done right away, and it cost me. One place quoted me $500 and they quoted me 292 and then 312/w tax and then when I paid it was 313. Shady, just from those quotes.
Shady definitely comes to mind right about now with these guys. And, like I said: this is my experience. I can't speak for anyone else, but if they did this to me, they've done it before, and will do it again.

Croccifixio F.

Source: YELP

17/10/2013

My 2003 Altima was not running. It had some issue with the battery alternator, I didn't know. My brother recommended PAW to me, through a friend of his at work.
They were extremely helpful; thanks Adam; and diagnosed the problem. I got a Camshaft sensor and battery. Done.
Since the car hadn't run in some years I couldn't get it smogged. They hand cleaned the throttle to get it idling like new. Boom, I passed.
I would recommend them from my personal experience.

cindy d.

Source: YELP

19/04/2013

I came here for an oil change, and also am a woman (seems trivial, but when getting mechanical/service work done on cars, you'd be surprised how often this is a relevant factor ...)
Staff was amazing - greeted right when I came in; the gentleman at the counter was very nice, respectful, and treated me like an intelligent customer (most other places act like I know nothing about cars and try to convince me that I need an array of expensive repairs).
Oil change and tire rotations took exactly one hours - which is a vast improvement from other places that usually take 2-3 hours (and sometimes even longer).
The gentleman at PAW Service Center also gave me 2 free estimates on a radiator repair (which I knew needed repair), and also new tires + alignment (also something I knew needed repair). The estimates for the repairs were beyond competitive, and I would have had them done right there if I didn't have to head to work in a bit. What really impressed me, is the guy didn't push me to get the repairs done right away, but instead said, "Take your time and shop around if you want. We will always price match for you, as we would love your business." --- That alone should be your reason to take your business to PAW Service Center.
Another selling point: THEY ARE A FAMILY RUN BUSINESS. Support small, family run business with great customer service --- PAW Service Center is one.
I normally get my oil changed at a dealership (due to convenience), however I am making the switch over to PAW Service Center - the customer service, price, and family business are my main reasons in doing so.
Also wanted to add: Probably the most honest repair shop I have been too - and for a girl in a big city, that is saying a lot!!

Vanessa L.

Source: YELP

11/09/2012

Well.. I'm extremely thankful to the owner of this shop. Knowing i'm just a college student who just got scammed by a legit looking dealership, he helped paying for the tow of the dead used car which i only got to drive carefully for 6 days. (the story is too long to be told here.. pls look at my review on baldwin auto sales)
They were really caring i couldnt ask for more.. The dealership was being a jerk and tow the car away from them to bring it to whoever their friend was.. Its a shame because i really wished they were the ones who fixed the car. I guess the shop is too legit to help that dealership scamming another customer.
On the other hand, i'm glad because that just shows they're too legit to do some dirty work for the stupid dealership. Good job guys and sorry i did bother you With a lot of questions..
UPDATE:
so today i was mad sick at the dealership for almost not refunding me my money on a dead car.. i... got into trouble and got locked out of my rental car.. lol.. i'm too smart.. so they were close by.. and they were the only people that could help.. he once again came to my rescue.. i mean.. omfg? how many times would a person who doesnt know you help you like that? rare.. very rare.. he's.. an angel.. God sent..
I'm sorry i exaggerate, but i do love him to pieces and i will come to him in the future if there are any problems with my new car.. i know he'd be honest with me.. and i know he'll take good care of my car.. i love you guys! and sorry for the trouble i've caused you!!

Eun Jae G.

Source: YELP

15/11/2012

This place is really good at what they do. Very professional and polite also. In my opinion probably the most honest auto repair shop i have ever used.

Scott A.

Source: YELP

26/03/2013

I have been coming here for the last 5 years now, and don't have one bad thing to say about them. Whether you are a new customer, or a long time customer, they always take care of you like they would their own. I am a female, who grew up in a man's world...working in the garage, and on cars a lot growing up. The one thing I hate is "trying" to be sold on something I don't need. These guys are up front and honest, regardless of your gender. I have had other repair shops tell me I need this, that, and the other thing. PAW always is realistic about things, and if the repairs can wait until money is better, they tell me so. There pricing is always fair, and I have never felt "raped" so to speak. They always get me in and out, and I never have an issue. No worries about having to deal with a slimmy, snake who tries to take advantage of you at every chance. These guys are the real deal. And the women in the office are very friendly and helpful as well.

Tiffany S.

Source: YELP

19/03/2010

I have a volvo so not all car places take my car for servicing... they really inspected my car and even helped me save money on stuff I didn't need. I am definitely a repeat customer

Hillary G.

Source: YELP

25/08/2010

Great service, great prices and most importantly HONEST!!!!!! As a female who knows nothing about mechanics I trust PAW 100% to help me with all of my vehicles needs and do it without trying to rip me off. John the owner is an all around nice guy... warm, caring and trustworthy. His work is fast and reliable and he will layout all the options to you so you can make the decision thats best for your budget. Also, they send you really good specials in the mail. I am definately a satisfied customer and recommend him to anyone who wants a mechanic they can trust.

canada e.

Source: YELP

08/07/2010

I know when I take my car to John and the crew at PAW that it is going to be fixed. What more can you ask for? On a couple of occasions they've surprised me, going beyond what your average shop might do. I can't think of any reason to go anywhere else anymore.

Eric A.

Source: YELP

30/07/2012

I found out about this place through a Groupon they offered at the beginning of the year. Boy, do I not regret purchasing it. Went in for an oil change, and walked out finding my favorite car place. John, the owner, is very personable and provides such great service (and explains things to me since well, let's face it, I don't know much about cars). The rest of the staff have always been helpful as well with getting us in and just having a smile on their face when you walk in. When I took my car in for an oil change and to get new wipers, he also went ahead and replaced a few of my smaller lights (like the rear center brake light that I had no idea I even had) without charging me. At that time we found out my headlight melted the plastic holder (yeah, I don't know the technical term) so he went ahead and ordered it. Went back like two months later since we were moving so he could fix that and a couple other things and found out Ford sent the wrong plug (of course!). So after quite a bit of back and forth AND them taking a cell phone picture to send to their service center so they would finally send PAW the right part, I got it fixed. While there John asked me how my move was, how I was liking my new place, etc. Every time we go he remembers us and what we talked about last time. I never thought I would receive this kind of service from a car place and I love knowing that I am not being taken advantage of as a girl (something I felt was happening at Firestone) and I know I'm not being overcharged (something I knew was happening at Firestone). All around, I HIGHLY recommend PAW, John, and the rest of his incredible staff.

Victoria H.

Source: YELP

12/06/2014

Great place, trustworthy and reliable.

Erik N.

Source: YPAGE

12/06/2014

Won't trust my car anywhere else!

connie.faubel.3

Source: YPAGE

23/03/2016

Took care of me right away, and talked me through the issue. Went out of their way to make sure me and my car was taken care of. Great service and extremely trust worthy. I plan on using them again in the future. Thank you!

Mo Avalos

Source: FBOOK

12/05/2016

John and his guys have been servicing and repairing my vehicles for about a year now. They are professional and I can tell you their work is exceptional. I highly recommend them.

Edwin Quintana

Source: FBOOK

25/05/2016

Thank you for supporting the Hope and Victory Cancer Care fundraiser!

Brian Tieber

Source: FBOOK

12/11/2015

Great service! Been going here for years. Highly recommend.

RosaLinda Ramirez

Source: FBOOK

06/02/2015

I trust them for all my automotive service needs. They also have used cars for sale that have all been checked out.

Fred Jacobsen

Source: FBOOK

28/05/2015

Josh Ecv Villareal

Source: FBOOK

15/02/2015

Cody Beyer

Source: FBOOK

14/07/2016

One of the best shops in San Diego.

ivan stewart

Source: GPLAC

11/01/2016

The work is good, it is the Customer Service that lacks attention at this Auto Shop. You need both to keep your customers.

AJL L

Source: GPLAC

04/12/2014

Always have availability when I need to bring my car in, very friendly and helpful. Always try to find the best way to get your car serviced at an affordable price. Found them on groupon 2 years back and have't taken my car anywhere else since.

Robert Perea

Source: GPLAC

29/12/2014

Great service. Very freindly and straight forward.

Cody Beyer

Source: GPLAC

08/07/2010

Working with John and the crew at PAW is worry free. I take my car in to be fixed, they fix it, and i'm done. It's all anyone can ask from a shop, and I've asked more from these guys to work around my schedule on more than one occasion and they are always willing to work with me. I know when they say it's done, it's done.

A Google User

Source: GPLAC

27/04/2016

Costumer service

Excellent service...helpful...and up front and honest

Amy R.

Source: SUREC

02/05/2016

Customer service and price

Fit me in on short notice. Reviewed other aspects of service needed and provided me with an honest appraisal of additional work. Excellent customer service.

Rich L.

Source: SUREC

05/05/2016

Getting great customer service ~

Got an oil change and was notified that the rear brakes were wearin down and near time for pads and a rotor turn. Job done and done, top marks ! And, yes, I have recommended to my friends. One of which just had his Tundra…

Randy N.

Source: SUREC

15/05/2016

PAW is a great place to take your car.

The service is prompt. The employees are friendly. They keep you informed exactly needs to be done with your car.

Debbie F.

Source: SUREC

17/05/2016

Most work was done...

Most of the work was completed except my window still rattles. Biggest problem was that someone emptied my glove compartment and left all the contents on the floor and my seat. I don't understand why that happened...

Daniel E.

Source: SUREC

23/05/2016

Trustworthy and Exceptional Customer Service

I have been brining my vehicle to Paw Service Center for several years, now. Any problem with my vehicle is always diagnosed correctly and repaired in a timely fashion. They even went out of their way to help which saved me a towing…

Roi-ann B.

Source: SUREC

27/05/2016

Perfect

Perfect honesty...I eas concetned sbout my air conditioning....and Brian after checking it out ...as a result of my answer and his tekling me to push one button...my air conditing again is fully functing...all at no charge...PAW is honest…

Richard A.

Source: SUREC

29/05/2016

Always able to get assistance and help. Employees are knowledgeable and what ever matince is done, will be right!

Love their discount package.......will see you in 5,000 miles!

LaVerne L.

Source: SUREC

06/06/2016

inmediate attention and professional.

Amazing job

Patrica A.

Source: SUREC

10/06/2016

awesome car and customer service

I had such a great experience with PAW. I have a Volkswagen which is always difficult to take care of. Brian looked at what was causing the leak and gave me an honest walk through of what the issue is and what it would take to fix if. He…

Savannah R.

Source: SUREC

22/06/2016

more honest than others

Another great job

Dan M.

Source: SUREC

23/06/2016

Busy, friendly business

The owner and mechanic were both friendly as well as informative. This pertains not just to me but to the other customers there doing business. The garage was busy - a good sign - and morale seemed high.

Linda T.

Source: SUREC

30/06/2016

Care

Honest professional people.

Jeanne L.

Source: SUREC

05/07/2016

stickers off care

This place is great. They are very personable and honest. I really like them as a local car mechanic. very friendly owner and workers!

Maria T.

Source: SUREC

05/07/2016

Had a battery emergency, they fixed it right away.

I have been a PAW customer for many years and for good reason. They are truthful, reliable, and professional. Always get a decent price for the work done.

Chuck F.

Source: SUREC

09/07/2016

Great Guys!

PAW people are friendly, prompt and informative. Great service!

Julie L.

Source: SUREC

16/07/2016

First experience

I was referred to PAW by Discount Tire for an alignment. Very friendly and professional. They even have a small waiting room with complimentary coffee!

Leslie B.

Source: SUREC

20/07/2016

Awesome service.

The mechanics do an amazing job. Great detail to quality of their training. PAW management is second to nobody.

Joseph M.

Source: SUREC

22/07/2016

Wonderful experience as always!!

Everyone is friendly and Owner/Manager is always on top of everything

Loretta W.

Source: SUREC

23/07/2016

Excellent service and friendly, caring people.

They fixed my car and got it back to me quickly. I'm never disappointed with the service at Paw. It's an easy, comfortable, trustworthy place.

Linda S.

Source: SUREC

24/07/2016

great

As usual you all did a great job, and especially during our unusual situation Barb

Barbara A.

Source: SUREC

03/08/2016

Very friendly office staff.

I have been a client at PAW for over a decade. They have maintained and repaired our cars to perfection each and every time. The owner, John Cafiero expects excellence from his staff and it shows in happy clients, with vehicles that are…

Steve B.

Source: SUREC

08/08/2016

Thorough and reasonable

Good experience with new manager...He solved my ignition problem. Considering I didn't have a lot of money to deal with he figured a way to get it done in the least expensive way. At I am off and running. Thanks

Terry B.

Source: SUREC

We work with these brands

Audi
Buick
Fiat
Ford
Hyundai
Infiniti
Kia
Lexus
MINI
Mercedes-Benz
Mitsubishi
RAM
Volkswagen

We perform these services

Body Work

  • Collision repair
  • Paintless dent repair
  • Auto body painting

Brake Services

  • Brake inspection and repair
  • Brake replacement (pads, rotors, etc.)
  • Brake fluid change

Customization and Performance Upgrades

  • Performance tuning
  • Aftermarket exhaust systems
  • Suspension upgrades

General Automotive Repair

  • Routine services and repairs
  • Preventative maintenance
  • Warranty work

HVAC Services

  • Air conditioning repair and recharge
  • Heating system repair
  • Cabin air filter replacement

Suspension and Steering

  • Shocks and struts repair
  • Suspension check and repair
  • Power steering repair and maintenance