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Auto repair shop - James Auto Center of Panama City - in Panama City

87 reviews

Location: 1301 E 11th street, Panama City, FL 32401

Office phone

+1 (850) 763-0555

4.4

87 total

(12)

(1)

(0)

(1)

(73)

06/08/2016

My family and I were on vacation in panama city beach last month and my 02 Chevy avalanch would sputter when you hit the gas. A few days before in Biloxi since the computer said it was misfiring the repair shop just changed the plugs and wires. Well I found james and he informed me that he would find the problem and anyone can just throw parts an a car but It won't necessarily fix it. I spent the whole day (from 7am-4:30pm) there and eh would keep me posted on what they were doing. They were all super nice friendly people and I made back to North Geogia without any problems and still no problems. Thank you again James, Paul, Mark.

Craig Dunnell

Source: FBOOK

20/07/2016

I took my truck here after working on it my self and not being able to figure it out on my own. I consider my self a self sufficient manly man so it took a lot for me to take it to a mechanic. They were extremly professional and even gave me advise over the phone on things to check on my own before i brought it to them, you don't get that in many places! Less than 24 hours after i dropped it off i was picking it back up good as new! They didn't charge me for anything they didn't do and the price was very reasonable! Hopefully i wont need a mechanic again any time soon but if i do i wont hesitate to bring it back here!

Sean Simonson

Source: FBOOK

15/08/2016

We were on a dive trip with our family and the front passenger wheel fell OFF of my 07 Ford Edge. It took longer to get a tow truck than it did for James Auto Center to fix the problem and they also inspected everything else to make sure we were safe. Cannot say enough nice things about these great people. If it wasn't so far away (we live in KY) I would take my vehicle there for everything! They were great and a pleasure to work with. In a scale of 1 to 5 they are a 100!

Lucian Lott

Source: FBOOK

14/06/2016

I want to thank James Auto Center for fixing my truck! Down to earth top notch customer service!! Listened to my issues and together we came up with a solution. Reasonable pricing for the service you are requesting. I will be coming back for any other service needed. Again, thank you thank you... My issue was driving me nuts!

Daphne Gettler

Source: FBOOK

09/08/2016

Very knowledgeable, don't believe me? Take his encore class at Gulf Coast. Always learning more things. If he recommends a repair it's because you need it. You may pay a little more, but it's well worth it.

Li Trinh

Source: FBOOK

05/05/2016

I want to thank them for making me feel like a dope. I didn't read my bill cause it was late and I had a 6 hour drive back home. thank you for charging me for 4 gallons of antifreeze when my car only takes 2...

Sue Burks

Source: FBOOK

16/05/2016

These people are so sweet, friendly and know what they are doing ! Although my car needs a lot more work, they fixed the immediate issues I had. AWESOME ! Thank you sooo much.

Marsha Zeis

Source: FBOOK

12/12/2015

These folks test-drive your car to find the problems you report. They give you an estimate for repairs and labor and, if there is additional work, they tell you what it is and how much it will cost. Everyone there is courteous, friendly, honest AND knowledgeable. I recommend this business to all who want to keep their cars in tip-top condition. As a personal aside, I live out-of-town and they have been very good to work my vehicle into their schedule. Thank you, James Auto Center!

Tulita Owen

Source: FBOOK

13/11/2015

Once again James has taken care of a vehicle of ours with a test drive. Afterwards e knew what was making the noise, looked at it and sure enough that was it! No charge! Even when he was work done his price was reasonable and fair. He's so knowledgable about the auto world. We discussed my Studebaker heritage and he knew about the Avanti being made after the company closed. James, it was a pleasure to talk to you again, this time in person. I plan to listen on Saturdays as usual! Thank you again, Ms Studebaker,

Jackie Hayes

Source: FBOOK

04/11/2015

Terrible service! Our car was not fixed when we went and picked it up and when we brought it to their attention they became rude and even called my Husband a liar. We paid 700 dollars and the car was the same as when we dropped it off, apart from an expensive oil change. This place is a prime example of being ripped off by an auto repair center!!!

Brittany Cawley

Source: FBOOK

15/01/2011

Retired - Homemaker

James and his shop have been there for me and my family for over 20 years. Have always been friendly and there to help. Giving me honest quotes and honestly if the vehicle could/should not be repaired. When my girls where in college in…

Carrie M

Source: INPAG

11/02/2011

Fine folks

James Auto Center folks are marvelous, first and foremost they listen, James takes a drive in the vehicle with you and by the time time we get back to the shop he usually knows what is wrong...can't get much better than that...and I have…

Sandra S

Source: INPAG

11/02/2011

Writes His Own Reviews

He and his crew are snakes. They will rip you off the second they see you. The reviews below were written by him and his staff. Don't fall for it. He is a SNAKE!!!!

John Y

Source: INPAG

11/02/2011

Overpriced. Not as good as you may think.

Over priced for the service. Smooth talkers and James is a good sales person because he can make you believe you need more services than you really do. Don't go there.

Sandra S

Source: INPAG

07/03/2011

James Auto = A++

I rate James Auto Ctr as 5 Stars +++++\r My 2001 Chrysler Town & Country minivan serves me well with gardening & assorted needs. I plan to keep it as long as possible. To do that requires regular maintenance (much less expensive than…

N. Lee B

Source: INPAG

22/03/2011

Taking Advantage of the Unsuspecting

It amazes me how so many people can be entranced by the sounds of this snake charmer. He babbles his drool on the radio and the unsuspecting follow him to his lair for slaughter. I am speaking from personal experience. I⿿m not one to…

Dianne D

Source: INPAG

10/06/2011

Pure Discrimination

I can't believe how rude these people are!!! I came there because I hear this guy on the radio every saturday morning. I thought he would know how to treat a customer. I was wrong! The woman at the counter was too busy brown nosing…

Ryan B

Source: INPAG

01/12/2011

Reliable

Brought in my Wife's Toyota for an Eng Lite Problem and a front end vibration while applying the brakes. The Auto Center replaced an Air Fuel Ratio Sensor for the Eng Lite problem and replaced the vehicle's front rotors for the braking…

Diane W

Source: INPAG

21/03/2012

STAY AWAY!!!

Damn, I had to put one star rating, because they wont let you do zero stars! Are these people kidding??? Someone must post fake reviews so they get some good ones. I tried to take my car there...inspite of some half hillbilly/half ghetto…

George M

Source: INPAG

13/07/2012

Thanks For All The Help with our Motor Home

I was surprised and delighted at the service we received at James Auto Center. We tried several places and no one had time to help us with our Motor Home, you guys are wonderful. You fixed our fuel problem and got us back on the road. We…

Sheryl S

Source: INPAG

14/01/2011

A Top-Notch Auto Repair Shop!

I'm a mechanical engineer and I trust JAMES Auto Center to fix all my vehicles -- including an old '96 Chrysler that my daughter drives away at college. I've had 8-yrs experience with JAMES and he's always fixed the problem correctly the…

Tom A

Source: INPAG

10/02/2011

A very satisfied customer

It seems like all you hear these days is about bad business, well I'm going to share a very good experience I had recently with a local shop. It was just before Christmas break and I was taking my daughter to school. After I dropped her…

KELLEY M

Source: INPAG

26/02/2011

James' Auto is a Class Act

After a short ride, James had checked out all the problems . He did a diagnosis, list and cost and remarked ⿿we hope to have it done by Friday.⿿ We left the car in their care on Wednesday morning. Sure enough, a call received and the…

Lois D

Source: INPAG

11/03/2011

Dr. Ross E. Ferland

If you are having problems that are elusive to the automotive community, I suggest you stop in and chat with the folks at James Auto Center. They guarrantee that you will leave with a solution to your dilemma.....and I did just that. They…

Doc F

Source: INPAG

29/03/2011

Wouldn't Suggest It

I read the reviews and do my homework before posting. Read the reviews below closely. They are more like commercials than reviews. I have no question the reviews were either written by them or the customer was couched what to…

Bob L

Source: INPAG

12/08/2011

Fabulous people and service!

My alternator went out as I was arriving in PCB for vacation. The people at James Auto Center were incredibly friendly and provided great customer service - even provided a loaner car to get us on our way to our condo and the beach! The…

Lisa

Source: INPAG

01/12/2011

Excellent Service

Reviews Write a review \r Your rating: \r Your rating: Loved it \r \r My 2002 Toyota 4 Runner had an unusual noise coming from the engine compartment. The auto center's test drive and the subsequent troubleshooting lead to the discovery of…

Wayne W

Source: INPAG

04/04/2012

The last of the Mom and Pop businesses

Back in the "good ole days" we knew the folks who owned the business where we spent our money. With the rise of big corporations those days have almost disappeared. The down side of this is we often deal with low paid employees who have…

Edward G

Source: INPAG

17/07/2013

Auto Repairs, (James Auto Center)

Dear James Auto Center,\r \r Thanks for always fixing the families autos right the first time and backing your repairs with your reputation. James has always gone the second mile to repair the hard to fix car problems quickly, and to give…

Dennis S

Source: INPAG

01/12/2011

Great Service

Brought in my Wife's Toyota for an Eng Lite Problem and a front end vibration while applying the brakes. The Auto Center replaced an Air Fuel Ratio Sensor for the Eng Lite problem and replaced the vehicle's front rotors for the braking…

Sconey

Source: CSEAR

02/06/2011

Needless to say, I am very pleased

Thanks to you and your crew Please let Tim know the Chevy dealer (Tommy T.) verified his diagnosis of bad injectors, and I got it to them in time to take advantage of the warranty extension. Tim researched and found the service bulletin…

kareyristow

Source: CSEAR

06/06/2011

This shop is the best

This shop is the best!

Consue Low

Source: CSEAR

14/06/2011

we were moving

They saved our bacon, we were moving.

roxxiefoxie

Source: CSEAR

16/06/2011

Don't change

I am very satisfied with your service - Don't change!

sallytasse

Source: CSEAR

20/06/2011

Great Job James Auto

James and his shop have been there for me and my family for over 20 years. Have always been friendly and there to help. Giving me honest quotes and honestly if the vehicle could/should not be repaired. When my girls where in college in…

leonasn

Source: CSEAR

22/06/2011

Best service ever

Best service ever

FlGuEst

Source: CSEAR

23/06/2011

Good Job

Good Job

GuestFL01

Source: CSEAR

27/06/2011

Excellent Service

Excellent Service!!

Jayden4323

Source: CSEAR

30/06/2011

pleased that James has been able to service my car

I am pleased that James has been able to service my car on reg and emergency basis, and the work was done in a timely manner, with satisfactory results. I also enjoy Ann's input on the work being done, & chatting with her.

JadwiG

Source: CSEAR

05/07/2011

Drive 30 miles one way to have my car serviced

Drive 30 miles one way to have my car serviced. It is worth the trip. Problem diagnostic capability of the staff is outstanding All staff is friendly and capable

EssexChicka

Source: CSEAR

07/07/2011

I have always been treated to a cherry welcome and the servi

I have always been treated to a cherry welcome and the service has always been performed in a professional manner

Hwa Hansley

Source: CSEAR

11/07/2011

The folks at James Auto Center are trustworthy

The folks at James Auto Center are trustworthy, reliable, & efficient. They go the extra mile to insure that the customer's vehicle is well taken care of.

Elenore Hodos

Source: CSEAR

14/07/2011

I know when I take my car to James Auto Center

I know when I take my car to James Auto Center they will give it a thorough checkup, without unnecessary recommendations.

mrussell79

Source: CSEAR

15/07/2011

unfailingly outstanding service that they offer

We have been taking our cars to James Auto Service for several years because of the unfailingly outstanding service that they offer, starting with the initial test drive.

Sharon Lynch210

Source: CSEAR

19/07/2011

I take my two vehicles James Auto Center

If someone asked me where they should take their car/ truck the first place that comes to mind is where I take my two vehicles James Auto Center-Good quick, courteous service.

mandydunn

Source: CSEAR

26/07/2011

Honest, hardworking and very knowledgeable

Honest, hardworking and very knowledgeable about their business. Both have good personalities

Amback

Source: CSEAR

28/07/2011

They have maintained my vehicle for several years

They have maintained my vehicle for several years and because of their skill and professionalism-none of my vehicles have had any failures and we never had to return a vehicle for any work.

ellimcdowall

Source: CSEAR

03/08/2011

I have praised you and your professionalism

I have praised you and your professionalism to everyone who has asked about the work performed. You are truly the master mechanic

Liaush

Source: CSEAR

08/08/2011

They are a friendly and knowledgeable

They are a friendly and knowledgeable organization. It is indeed a pleasure having a place that I can trust working on my car; something of a rarity these days.

Jamidt207

Source: CSEAR

01/12/2011

Great Service

Brought in my Wife's Toyota for an Eng Lite Problem and a front end vibration while applying the brakes. The Auto Center replaced an Air Fuel Ratio Sensor for the Eng Lite problem and replaced the vehicle's front rotors for the braking…

Sconey

Source: CSEAR

26/01/2011

Rude. Didn't even want to talk to me.

I lost my key for my lug nuts. I live close to James Auto Center so I went there to see if they could help me. Nobody wanted to talk to me. They acted like they were too good to help me out. I was willing to pay but they litterally…

Dew Drop 32405

Source: CSEAR

03/06/2011

Check out their main web site and learn more

James Auto helped me put my S-10 back on the road , when I was ready to send it to the junk yard. They worked with me to ensure I could depend on many more years of service. We have done business with James and Anna both ways and can…

Aparras

Source: CSEAR

07/06/2011

count on James Auto

I can count on James Auto Center.

merriebroner

Source: CSEAR

09/06/2011

Best place in town

Best place in town for car work.

Orlandolover

Source: CSEAR

09/06/2011

Discrimination!

I can't believe how rude these people are!!! I came there because I hear this guy on the radio every saturday morning. I thought he would know how to treat a customer. I was wrong! The woman at the counter was too busy brown nosing…

Ryan Ballaster

Source: CSEAR

08/06/2011

My car likes James Auto Center

My car likes James Auto Center.

johnielosolla

Source: CSEAR

10/06/2011

Outstanding, Professional Service

Outstanding, Professional Service!

Fl guest125

Source: CSEAR

13/06/2011

great work

Thanks for the great work!

misoveyo

Source: CSEAR

15/06/2011

Thank You for all the work you put into it

You guys made me feel comfortable in knowing I bought a car that will last me a long time. Thank You for all the work you put into it.

GuestFL

Source: CSEAR

17/06/2011

did a great job

Dear James, As a token of my apprectation , I have enclosed a set of dog tags. You worked on my wife's Mitsubishi Expo a few months ago and did a great job and you also have answered a question about my Ford on your show. I use the tags…

guest987

Source: CSEAR

21/06/2011

This usually resulted in unnecessary repairs

I'm a mechanical engineer and I trust JAMES Auto Center to fix all my vehicles -- including an old '96 Chrysler that my daughter drives away at college. I've had 8-yrs experience with JAMES and he's always fixed the problem correctly the…

alexisgolla

Source: CSEAR

24/06/2011

Exceptional Team

Exceptional Team! NAPA should be proud!

jayet

Source: CSEAR

28/06/2011

Truly you are both a blessing

We can't thank you enough for thinking of us regarding the 1994 Buick. Truly you are both a blessing. God bless you.

Willene

Source: CSEAR

27/07/2011

James Auto treats vehicle maintenance much like a doctor

James Auto treats vehicle maintenance much like a doctor. They diagnose the vehicle and correct any issues before they become major problems.

dorotheakan

Source: CSEAR

05/08/2011

James Auto Center is the only place I'll take my car

James Auto Center is the only place I'll take my car for repair work. They do great work and stand behind what they do.

Madisyn456

Source: CSEAR

08/01/2010

Great Service. See you guys in three months

Great service. James is amazing. Lacii is a great asset. Will see you guys in three month for my oil change.

Anna

Source: CLOBB

11/01/2010

Dependable company, stands behind what they do.

I have been using James Auto Center for a couple of years now. They are quite knowledgeable, they do good work, and they stand behind what they do. One of my 3 vehicles needed major service, and they did that repair. Everything turned…

Sam A

Source: CLOBB

15/01/2010

They communicate well and do what they say.

I was not getting good service at the auto shop that I was using, so I decided to try James Auto Center. I had initially heard their radio ads and then I met James. I first started going there 6 months ago and have been using their service…

Bill A

Source: CLOBB

08/08/2011

They are a friendly and knowledgeable

They are a friendly and knowledgeable organization. It is indeed a pleasure having a place that I can trust working on my car; something of a rarity these days.

Guest G.

Source: JUDYS

28/07/2011

skill and professionalism

They have maintained my vehicle for several years and because of their skill and professionalism-none of my vehicles have had any failures and we never had to return a vehicle for any work.

Guest G.

Source: JUDYS

18/07/2011

Estimates are accurate, work is done on time

Estimates are accurate, work is done on time, and they often take the time to take us back to the maintenance bay and show us exactly what was done and why, to include showing us the parts that needed to be replaced.

Guest G.

Source: JUDYS

21/07/2011

James Auto Center is respectful, fair, honest, and trustworthy

I have been taking my car to James Auto Center since 2007. They restored life to my car better than when I first bought it making me believe they have the best mechanics in town. James Auto Center is respectful, fair, honest, and…

Guest G.

Source: JUDYS

09/08/2011

honesty, integrity, loyalty

Very lucky to have a business that gives honesty, integrity, loyalty, to his customers.

Guest G.

Source: JUDYS

15/07/2011

We have been taking our cars to James Auto Service

We have been taking our cars to James Auto Service for several years because of the unfailingly outstanding service that they offer, starting with the initial test drive.

Guest G.

Source: JUDYS

19/07/2011

Good quick, courteous service

If someone asked me where they should take their car/ truck the first place that comes to mind is where I take my two vehicles James Auto Center-Good quick, courteous service.

Guest G.

Source: JUDYS

03/08/2011

I have praised you and your professionalism

I have praised you and your professionalism to everyone who has asked about the work performed. You are truly the master mechanic

Guest G.

Source: JUDYS

01/08/2011

very pleasant and friendly

My experience with James Auto Center has been very pleasant and friendly. He has been taking care of my car for years, since beginning of year 2000 and I have all the confidence in his services and advises.

Guest G.

Source: JUDYS

14/07/2016

The people are the absolute best, no one else will ever work on my cars ever again. Highly recommended, I will say if your looking to cut corners and save money, these are not your people, they are pricier than most but the best.

Carlos Garcia

Source: GPLAC

22/05/2016

I found this site by reading reviews now I want to give mine. I was so pleased with the knowledge, service and care I received from this business. The company I work for encourages us to give 1% more in what we do with great customer service and I am here to say that's what I found with this company. I was taken through every step of my vehicles needs ( yes both car and truck broke down in a week and a half ) I learned so much of what I can do to care for them. They are both older vehicles but I want to keep them. I am a female who needed someone to care and work with me. To sum it up I now have an auto place that will know me and my vehicles one I trust to help me keep them as long as I can. Thank you James Auto Center!

Toni Pleterski

Source: GPLAC

28/04/2016

Paul and Mark were very pleasant and professional. My waterpumps bearring broke which caused major $$$$$ to fix. After consulting with my mechanic, the job should have cost $2500. It cost me $3300. Give or take a dollar. James got my car fixed in 3 & 1/2 days and got me back on the road so I could get home. They also cleaned my headlights which were in terrible shape, discolored and foggy, at no charge. They did other things to make sure my car was in good shape. AAA Recommended James Auto Care and so do I!!

Donna Burks

Source: GPLAC

01/04/2016

If I could put zero stars, I would. I called to ask if they had the software to program my keyless entry keyfob. The guy, "Paul", who answered the phone was very rude and talked to me in a very condescending manner. He said he would charge me $200 to program the keyfob. I went to the dealer, got it done for $85 and the people there were MUCH nicer and professional.

Christy Loudermilk

Source: GPLAC

02/07/2016

Great place with friendly service! Got the part in fast and had me on the road the next day! Earned my business

Billy Brown

Source: GPLAC

01/06/2015

I just love their business model. They start with a drive, you in the car, do the Vulcan mind meld with the computer, go over it with you and recommend what to do. If you are having enough done, you get a loaner car. Did a great job on my Chevy 08 3/4 ton Diesel. The updated software made this already quiet diesel even more quiet, even the wife noticed the difference. I was looking for an alternative to the dealer and I have found it.

Larry M.

Source: YELP

12/07/2016

Had my Car check for repairs... James Auto est. $6000. vs Bay Chrysler $850.
No questions for me.

Jericho C.

Source: YELP

14/06/2015

I chose this particular shop because of the positive reviews I saw on the internet. So, instead of shopping around, I headed straight over to that place. Don't get me wrong, people that work there know what they are doing, but they charge you an arm and a leg for their service. To be exact, most shops will charge you diagnostics fee, but they will credit it back to you if you choose them to do the work. James Auto Center wouldn't. I had a bad water pump, so to replace it, you'd have to take the serpentine belt off, and it should be as one labor charge. Instead, James Auto Center charged me separately for each step as if I came in, told them to replace the belt, left, came back, told them to replace the pump, left. So, according to an estimate I received from another shop, I overpaid around $300. If you have plenty of money to spare, then take your car there - and they'll do a good job; if not, shop around before committing to this particular place - and you'll be surprised how much money you can save.

Vitaliy P.

Source: YELP

10/12/2014

I have total confidence in James Auto Center. They fixed my car for a lot less than the dealer would have charged and the service was awesome. Family owned and operated. Paul was attentive and explained everything. They stand behind their work and even provided a free loaner car while they worked on my vehicle. I definitely recommend James Auto Center.

Frank J.

Source: YELP

29/08/2014

These guys went above and beyond! When we experienced alternator problems late in the day they went out of their way to take care of it. Very good service and customer care. A gem!

Brian S.

Source: YELP

We work with these brands

Alfa Romeo
Chrysler
Dodge
Fiat
Ford
GMC
Genesis
Infiniti
Mazda
Mitsubishi
Nissan
Toyota
Volkswagen

We perform these services

Body Work

  • Collision repair
  • Paintless dent repair
  • Auto body painting

Customization and Performance Upgrades

  • Performance tuning
  • Aftermarket exhaust systems
  • Suspension upgrades

Electrical Systems

  • Battery testing and replacement
  • Alternator repair
  • Starter repair and replacement
  • Electrical diagnostics and repairs

Fleet Services

  • Maintenance contracts for business fleets
  • Priority service and scheduling

Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Services

  • Battery health checks
  • Electric motor service
  • Hybrid-specific components repair

Roadside Assistance and Towing

  • Towing service
  • Emergency roadside assistance

Safety and Emissions

  • State safety inspections
  • Emissions testing and repair
  • Check Engine light service