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Auto repair shop - Advanced Auto Pros - in Irvine

45 reviews

Location: 51 Auto Center Dr, Irvine, CA 92618

Office phone

+1 (949) 297-3920

5

45 total

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05/03/2016

5-STAR means excellence in ethical, automotive repair and maintenance. I'm a 70 year old, educated senior lady who's had years of experience taking my car to other places, and none can compare with Advance Auto Pros. They are so knowledgeable about cars and so honest, trustworthy and forthcoming about car repairs that cannot say enough good things about them. And just so this makes more sense: I drive down from LA and back to them because no other shop is as trustworthy and sensitive to a customer's needs. You won't be sorry.

Yeshe Tertso

Source: GPLAC

18/02/2016

So glad that I got a referral to this shop. I'm from way out of town (Texas) and had a fluid leak on my FJ. Went in and told Johnny what I thought the problem was. Once the truck was on the lift they were able to quickly diagnose what the real issue was and had everything fixed up very quickly. Super friendly staff & extremely accommodating. Plus they're very, very dog friendly! It can be hard to find trustworthy mechanics you don't have to worry when you're at this shop. Thanks again, y'all!

Ben Word

Source: GPLAC

03/06/2014

Johnny is just amazing! He is honest and affordable. He knows what he is doing and gets the job done! I will never go anywhere else! Thank you Advanced Auto Pros. I recommend this place to everyone!

Amber Flores

Source: GPLAC

19/06/2015

Keith Yamami

Source: GPLAC

26/05/2015

ruth Corler

Source: GPLAC

25/04/2016

I brought my Tacoma in with a misfiring cylinder. Dennis gave it the once over and unfortunately the misfiring it was doing earlier in the day wasn't happening after I brought it into the shop. Then, rather than recommend service that "might" work, they told me to hold off and play it by ear. Anytime a shop is not pushing for service (your money), it makes me think they are doing things the right way. To top it off, they changed a brake light I didn't know what out free of charge.
I will be back.

David H.

Source: YELP

18/02/2016

So glad that I got a referral to this shop. I'm from way out of town (Texas) and had a fluid leak on my FJ. Went in and told Johnny what I thought the problem was. Once the truck was on the lift they were able to quickly diagnose what the real issue was and had everything fixed up very quickly.
Super friendly staff & extremely accommodating. Plus they're very, very dog friendly! It can be hard to find trustworthy mechanics -- you don't have to worry when you're at this shop.
Thanks again, y'all!

Ben W.

Source: YELP

21/07/2016

Very professional. Very helpful and courtesy. Had oil change service and i am very pleased with service that John and his team gave. I will for sure will come back again and as well recommend to others

Dominic P.

Source: YELP

01/08/2016

This is my second 5 Stars Review! Johnny and his team did a great job repairing my car so we could go to Mammoth and return safely... Job well done, you diagnosed the problem and did amazing job repairing it!

Hedi R.

Source: YELP

26/01/2016

I have been coming here for a few years. My experience matches what other reviewers have said, they are honest, don't bs you with unneeded repairs, are competitively priced, and give you good information. I want to share a very specific stories why these guys are the best:
On my last car repair - I had metal parts to recycle, so I asked if they take metal parts for recycling. They told me they will take them, they usually collect everything in the shop and sell them to some guy to get a little money. Great! I come by like a month later (I procrastinated) and Dennis is at the front desk. He greets me and asks what's going on with my Civic. I said "nothing, it's running great" and he says "YES!" and does the victory fist clench like he's won the championship of automotive repairs. He's smiling and suddenly goes "wait, so why are you here?"
I think this speaks volumes about the guys here. These are not shady salesmen who will do the least they can and sell you as much as they can. They are mechanics who want to help people, and yes get paid to do it, and yes mechanical work is expensive and is sucks to pay for, but this is the best place to do it.
Another instance that comes to mind : From our past conversations, they actually remember that I'll change my own oil and do minor things like filter replacement etc. I went in for a break check to figure out what was wrong. They told me what needed to be repaired, the price, then told me I should consider doing it myself, it's within my skill range. They recommend this because they saw my timing belt was in rough shape and they needed to recommend replacement (which it did need to be, I knew). They could easily have just done the brake job, and then told me to come in for the timing belt too, but instead opted to make a recommendation that wasn't good for them, but was good for me. Again, they literally recommended I don't pay them to do the work because they thought I could do it, so I could save that money instead for a bigger repair job.
Also - I asked "how long do I have on the timing belt", the question I'm sure every mechanic hates since how could they really know. Johnny kinda gave me an iffy "I would replace it soon." I asked "how soon?" and his response is the best response I've ever gotten for a "soon" time frame. He said "If it was me, I might risk 2-3 months, if it was a friend I'd tell them within a month. And if it was my daughter, I'd do it today". I don't think I've ever been given a clearer picture of the time/risk scenario for a repair.
If yelp had a super mega-recommend that you had to pay for to use, I would pay for it with these guys. And if these stories don't convince you, In my experience Advanced Auto Pros was consistently the cheapest or close to the cheapest price for shops in the area. I don't bother pricing out with other shops anymore.

Simon P.

Source: YELP

23/06/2016

I hate going to mechanics because I am not mechanically savvy and feel like I get taken advantage of. That is not the case here! Johnny was amazing in problem solving within my budget and so generous in getting my old 98 Camry back in tip top shape. I'm so impressed by his work, genuineness, and care. Great experience!

Kayla K.

Source: YELP

24/02/2016

Great shop. Honest. Great staff and ownership. Highly recommended.

Bill S.

Source: YELP

18/05/2016

This place is absolutely outstanding. Johnny is a really nice guy who really took care of me and ask exactly what I expected and wanted from his service. I stopped by to inquire about a small space or left for my 4runner. Johnny really asked me what I wanted to do and really took my request into consideration. He was really accommodating and very verbal with what I was asking them to do. If anybody is looking for a honest and good place to get your car worked on for your truck fixed up the place to go. I'll be referring people to you Johnny!

AM T.

Source: YELP

26/04/2016

Advanced Auto Pros is the best car care professionals around the are honest and give the best quality of car care available they are committed to serving everyone with the best care possible and they are the best, honest hardworking car care professionals out there it's like s breath of fresh air to have someone with integrity caring to take the time and not cut corners to provide the very best care. I can't say enough good things about them and they are the only place I will take my car to and I know I will get the best price and the best service, they are the best and there are no words I can find to adequately express how awesome and amazing these professionals are they are the best and they will care for you as if you were family they are committed to giving everyone the best service and best price they Rock!

Rose L.

Source: YELP

17/04/2016

I brought my car in because the "check engine" light was on. It turned out the light was on because of a loose connection caused by the technician at a Toyota dealership (that changed the oil the previous week). They even found out that my cruise control cable was not properly hooked up. They corrected both issues and did not charge me a dime. WHAT A PLEASANT SURPRISE! I am definitely going to recommend this business to everyone I know and they definitely have won me over for life. What great customer service!!!!

Diane P.

Source: YELP

26/07/2014

This is the second time I have taken my car to advanced auto pros and I can tell you this is the best shop around town. The owner Johnny and his team of skill mechanics are extremely courteous and professional. They demand perfection and deliver satisfaction to the customer everytime, and they actually care about the life of the customers car. I mean I dont know another mechanic shop that offers you a lift if you need it! Johnny also Guarantees his work with Warranties on pretty much all parts and services.
Take your car to ADVANCED AUTO PROS you wont regret it. -Riley

Riley I.

Source: YELP

21/08/2015

If you guys are looking for an awesome shop for all your mechanical needs, this is the place for you.
I took my FJ to Johnny to have it looked over before a 6,000+ road trip that I will be taking with my dad in a few weeks. I wanted it to be checked over to make sure that my ride was up to the challenge. Not only was I treated professionally, I was treated like a life long friend.
Even with as busy as the shop was today, Johnny was able to fit me in and got the work done quickly. I have nothing but positive things to say about my experience at Advanced Auto Pros. If you are looking for master mechanics that will treat you right, give them a shot.

Josh B.

Source: YELP

24/04/2015

Amazing service with the customer in mind from the beginning! I stumbled on to Advanced Auto by following Dennis to this shop. Dennis is a Master Tech and Engine Guru when it comes to vehicles and I've been trusting him for years with my vehicles.
I was pleased to meet the owner, Johnny Wedell. In speaking with Johnny you know his passion and energy is service, working with people, and giving an honest day's work. No smoke and mirrors here.
If you're in need of regular maintenance or major repairs this is your place! Truth about what you need to keep your investment on the road and in service. No price gouge or surprise when it comes time to pay. Johnny and Dennis kept me informed of what was needed and the price so there is no "sticker shock".
Oh yea, and they prioritize your options from "got to have it to keep you safe" up to "it's something to keep in mind for next time", meaning it will be needed but not a must right now. That's appreciated when you have other expenses to consider. Not the normal shuck and jive you see with some repair shops that only know the "up-sell" routine.
Do yourself a favor and skip the other stops and shops. Advanced Auto is where I trust my ride - and my families safety!
Thanks guys for keeping it real and keep up the fantastic service.

Dwayne L.

Source: YELP

08/09/2014

I was visiting my brother in Irvine from nothern ca and had a problem with my intake manifold. I had several conversations with Johnny and with Dennis as well, and they explained everything to me clearly and what needed to happen in order to get my car repaired.
Needless to say, I'm back on the road and had no issues driving over 400 miles back to Napa.
These guys know their stuff, and they are very helpful from the beginning.
Highly recommend them

Robert D.

Source: YELP

30/01/2015

HIGHLY recommended for any of your auto care needs! It was my first time trying them when I needed new brakes and it was one of the best auto care service experiences I've had. Fantastic customer service! Johnny is so helpful and an honest mechanic. Being a girl, you're always scared you're going to be upsold or ripped off but he did nothing of the sort! He gave a very fair price, and even said he could get me cheaper parts if I really wanted but he recommended using the parts made for specifically for my make and model. I will definitely be back!

Nicole L.

Source: YELP

10/11/2014

Johnny and his ACE mechanic Dennis create the perfect team.
I am a fleet manager of a local senior park and have had plenty of repairs done.
Warranty work is no problem. Accomadated me to my schedule.
These guys are the real deal.
Thanks you guys. Scott

Scott E.

Source: YELP

26/03/2014

These dudes are awesome. Johnny & Dennis at AAP did such a great job on my truck that I took the wife's ride in the next week. They are very clear on their diagnosis of the problems and solutions. Their prices are very reasonable.
The first time I went there I needed a ride back so I asked if they can recommend a taxi service. Johnny quickly said "I'll take you back", not even knowing where I live.
Finding an honest and good auto mechanic these days is a crap shoot. Look no further than AAP. Thanks Yelpers, I owe you one for this.

Owen I.

Source: YELP

08/01/2015

I've been going to Advanced Auto Pros for more than a year now and the quality of the work there has never been less than exceptional. Johnny does a wonderful job maintaining our cars, often preventing a problem before it becomes catastrophic and saving us a bunch of money. Their prices are very good; they charge at or near cost for all the parts I've ever had to order. And they go above and beyond for their clients. Johnny even drove to my apartment to bring me a new battery when mine died. If you're not a customer, you're missing out. (And Dennis is great too.)

Chris S.

Source: YELP

12/07/2015

I just don't have enough good things to say about Johnny and the fellas at Advanced Auto Pros! He has helped me with all of my cars, did major brake work on my z71 Suburban, checked out my tranny on Audi A6, replaced the radiator and all hoses in my F250 6.0 diesel and has saved my daughters Buick from the wreck yard a few times. I also have a fleet of Scions for my field guys, and we now have Them serviced at Advanced Auto Pros. Most honest and authentic guys around! I reference them to everyone needing work, family , friends, friends of friends and even on Facebook post with people looking. Thanks for everything Johnny!

Brian W.

Source: YELP

09/12/2013

As I am writing this review, there are 12 previous posts, all providing 5 star reviews for Advanced Auto Pros and Johnny Wedell, the owner of the establishment.
At times, I am superstitious, I'm not all that fond of the number 13 for example.
In this case, I am very happy to be the 13th out of 13 to recommend AAP with 5 stars (I would give a 6th if I could).
At the behest of one of my colleagues who swore how good Johnny and AAP were, I had them on my checklist of to do's when I could afford care. My colleague insisted I go sooner rather than later, that Johnny would be more than fair, would get the job done right, would guarantee his work, do it with a smile, efficiently, carefully, essentially living by the Golden Rule.
Too good to be true for auto shop, right? In this case, Johnny and AAP are every bit the most honorable and knowledgeable kids on the block (literally - they're next to a few on the block at the Irvine Auto Center).
I'll spare you boring details of why I went (brakes, metal on metal, I'm a fool pushing things too long), but am I ever glad I did.
If you are pushing the envelope with your car...stop. Bring it to AAP right now. Mention this review or any of the other 12 and I imagine Johnny will take care of you. Better yet, don't mention it, and he'll still take great care of you...he's that good.
I can't recommend him enough. I am bringing my other car in ASAP because I better practice what I preach...no more delays...I can get my cars fixed today.
Thanks Johnny!

Jay D.

Source: YELP

20/10/2014

I don't usually do reviews. But taking my car here was such a relief. I hate taking my car to shops and trusting random strangers. So it was important that this shop came to me highly recommended. The owner Johnny personally took care of me. Looked at the car pointed out what was going on with it and prioritized what needed to be done. Most things he let me know where fine but we could keep an eye on. No pressuring to do work that is not in dire need here. He was straight forward and honest with the assessment. His crew Did the work that I brought the car in to have done at a lower price than I thought it would be which was awesome! When does that ever happen? So looks like I got my Mechanic locked in from here on out. Definitely recommend this shop.

MARTIN C.

Source: YELP

07/10/2013

It takes a lot of automotive knowledge or a lot of luck finding a reliable mechanic. I am, of course the lucky one.
Johnny came with a very high recommendation from one of my trusted friends. My husband and I are very pleased with the level of work he has done on our 74 Bronco, 2011 Audis A8 and Q7. He is thorough, timely, courteous and honest. Really. Even an automotive dummy can trust him because he won't take advantage of them! Thanks, Johnny!

Serena J.

Source: YELP

03/12/2013

I rely on Yelp a lot, but I have never actually created an account, until now. I found Advanced Auto Pros on Yelp, and I couldn't wait to add my positive review.
I took my car in for window actuator replacement (F-Body, surprise surprise). Replacing the actuators on these cars, especially for the first time (as in the case for my car), is actually a pretty time-consuming job, taking 1 to 2 hours per door, and I knew I needed to call on a professional. I searched Yelp and called a few places before I decided on Advanced Auto Pros. Johnny assured me that he would buy parts from the manufacturer of my choice, as I had done previous research on longevity, and he has a GM-specialist on-site. Johnny is very personable and straightforward. He diagnosed the problem at no charge to ensure it wasn't a problem with the regulator, switch, wiring, etc., and after he confirmed the motors were bad, he bought the parts I wanted and had my car ready the same day.
They took great care of my car, being gentle with my door panels, which had existing matching stress fractures. They didn't damage my after-market tint at all, and my car came back without a scratch, which is always my biggest fear when leaving it somewhere out of my control.
Their labor rate is cheaper than some of the nearby mechanics that I called, and he gives a 2-year warranty on ALL of his repairs.
In short, they made this control freak very happy, and my windows now operate flawlessly. I will definitely go back to him in the future, for this car as well as my others.

Jen D.

Source: YELP

18/06/2013

I came here on a recommendation. I'm glad I did
I was tiered of getting anonymous service from anonymous mechanics at the dealer. All of that anonymous service for a shocking price.
I needed brake work. The brakes fade, shake the steering wheel and sounded horrible. I brought it in, and they took care of everything. It cost me a fraction of what it would elsewhere.
Johnny is a great personable guy that is VERY proud of his business, and stakes his reputation on the work being done. It takes care of you and the car like a true professional. I have ZERO reservations recommending Advanced Auto Pros to anyone. You'll be treated fairly and courtsously.
I'm already lining up work to my car. I'm never going back to the dealer - or anyone else.

Mark R.

Source: YELP

22/10/2014

I do not Yelp often- only if it is exceptional or terrfiying
Johnny Wedell, owner, exceeded all my expectations. I found him to be professional, experienced and honest. I bought a used truck for my son and I had him inpsect it.
It was a Ford and my current mechanic specializes on Japaneese. My current mechanic referred me next door to Johnny . I was leery trying a new mechanic because we want someone who is capable, fair and upfront .
Johnny inspected my car for free, knowing I would take it back to the dealership for 30 day warranty work. He found some minor issues with the emission ( engine light was on) and the radiator needed to be flushed. I had him do the work because I did not want to go back to Riverside. He showed the me the used radiator fluid and the emission part that needed to be replaced. My son has found his future mechanic.

Tim N.

Source: YELP

02/12/2014

Johnny at Advanced Auto Pros is the best ever! This shop is awesome, honest, reliable and your auto's best friend. Got me back on the road with a smile on my face. Honestly, why go anywhere else? Best shop in Orange County hands down!

Gloria Gail P.

Source: YELP

31/01/2015

Yelp has still not let me down! Moved to the area recently and needed to find a new mechanic to take care of my car. My old mechanic was someone that I knew and had been going to for many years, so I was nervous about starting over. Johnny is super friendly, explains everything to you and is very thorough and straightforward. He offered to take me to to work and pick me up when my car was ready but I had already secured a ride. The prices were very good. I have already scheduled an appointment for my husband to bring his truck in too. Highly recommend.

Jenny S.

Source: YELP

31/03/2015

I rarely give out a 5 star review but Johnny and his guys deserve it. I had a bad break job purchased and installed by "Pep People..." and within 500 or so miles my breaks started SQUEALING hard. So I brought my car in and within 20/30 minutes they knew what the problem was and how to fix it. His pricing was extremely reasonable and he didn't try to up sell me or do what other shops do and say, "Oh by the way, you have like 4 other things broken you should probably do right this second." So refreshing! Good people and mechanics exist! They are in Irvine at Advanced Auto Pros! My husband and I have a fun car and a daily driver each, so we are thrilled to have found a place we can bring our cars and trucks to and KNOW we aren't being toyed with. This man has a policy of honesty, and it obviously is paying off. Kudos to you Johnny and team! Keep up the awesome policy's and practices and we'll keep coming back!

Ruth C.

Source: YELP

21/10/2014

Johnny replaced my rearview mirror for me, it was a quick fix..thank goodness! I see why he has five stars...hes very honest and reasonable and im planning on bringing my other car in, to have it repaired by his shop. Its hard to find a good, honest mechanic.

A P.

Source: YELP

19/11/2014

These guys did a great job diagnosing my headlight issue and replacing it in a timely manner. I highly recommend their service!!

Hedi R.

Source: YELP

31/07/2013

So glad I brought my car to Advanced Auto Pros. I wad referred by Vtech, which they are great too and literally next door. I spoke with Johnny on the phone prior to coming asking if I swing by so they can check why my engine light came on. He said no problem. He was very polite . Dennis did the test on my car. I have to say that I am very pleased by how great Dennis was. He was honest, friendly and professional. I'll definitely be bringing my car to them. Its very hard to find a shop that's honest, professional and friendly, and did I say honest. Advanced Auto Pros are wonderful.!! 5 stars all the way!Thank you Dennis for helping me and for being nice and honest. I appreciate it. I really recommend Advanced Auto Pros! You wont regret it

Daniela C.

Source: YELP

19/11/2013

Very good workmanship on an old rusty first owner beater car 2000 Honda Civic! Great customer service skills (easy going, personable), flexible, and down to earth.
Both Dennis and Johnny performed a valve seal replacement along with other items that needed service (brakes, bearings etc.)
By far one of the best mechanics I have ever ran into, for such a long time. Very dedicated, sincere and utmost honest.
I was referred to this shop by a family member.

Jeremiah S.

Source: YELP

14/10/2013

Johnny at Advanced Auto Pros is amazing! I called on a Wednesday and requested to bring my car in on that Friday. Johnny said no problem! I took my car in for what I thought was going to be a simple brake job- once Johnny looked at my car he let me know I had some other things that needed to be repaired. My simple brake job turned into my car needing much more work- Johnny was very informative through the whole process and was way cool even though more needed to be done to my car than expected AND he still was able to finish my car same day. I could not have asked for a better place to have my car worked on. I will be taking my car here everytime I need any work done.

Linda S.

Source: YELP

26/06/2013

Best car service! For once I felt like I wasn't being jipped on price or lied to and exaggerated about problems my car didn't have. Crew is really friendly, funny, and honest. I trust taking my car here for all it's services hands down! Pricing and service is worth the drive if you're coming from a ways away.

Marina M.

Source: YELP

19/04/2013

Best auto repair experience I have had, hands down. The guy at the counter really knows his stuff and his mechanics are clean and very professional. I left feeling that I got top notch work at a VERY fair price. They even replaced my third brake light at no charge, where others shops have told me that they couldn't even do it!

Stephen B.

Source: YELP

22/12/2013

If you need work on your car look no further than these guys. Honesty, Integrity and compassion normally don't go hand-in-hand with auto repair, but with Johnny Wedell and his staff the bar has been set. I brought my car in with a bit of fear due to the possible rip-offs I've experienced. Johnny immediately set my mind at ease and explained everything thoroughly. He also gave me a very fair price and guaranteed his work. All the previous posts are true! Thanks Johnny. I will recommend you to anybody whose car needs work with no hesitation at all. You are truly awesome!!

John D.

Source: YELP

15/05/2013

Just came back from these guys... they are awesome! So polite, so honest and fast. Highly recommended.

Sophia A.

Source: YELP

24/10/2013

Great fleet mechanic! I manage a 25 vehicle fleet, and found AAP when my fleet mechanic hired on with them early this year. I first tested their pricing and knowledge when one of my vehicles had a disabling transmission/rear end issue occur in San Diego county, and I was quoted over $2k to repair it at the shop my employee brought it to. Johnny at AAP arranged towing to his Irvine shop, repaired the vehicle's transmission, and did oil service and brake work for just over half of what the SD shop was asking. Reliable, cost effective, fair, honest! My family drives 15 miles to this shop because we know we can trust the service and price.

Patric M.

Source: YELP

23/10/2013

Look no further. These guys are AWESOME! I just went to them yesterday for new brakes. Very reasonable and honest. They even drove me to work and picked me up when my car was finished. I'll be going back. Thanks Johnny and Dennis!

Laura P.

Source: YELP

10/10/2013

Finding a mechanic to me is similar to finding a doctor. Since being referred to Johnny @ Advanced Auto Pro's I have never been more satisfied in a mechanic in my life. I have 3 cars/SUV's and Advanced Auto Pro's has been OUTSTANDING in keeping my cars healthy and happy. What ever I need and the best HONEST price in Southern OC, Johnny and his staff are A+ and I would recommend them to everyone who needs a DR. for their car.

Jasen B.

Source: YELP

We work with these brands

Acura
Alfa Romeo
Cadillac
Chevrolet
GMC
Jeep
Land Rover
Mazda
Mercedes-Benz
Mitsubishi
Volkswagen
Volvo

We perform these services

General Automotive Repair

  • Routine services and repairs
  • Preventative maintenance
  • Warranty work

Oil Changes

  • Standard and synthetic oil changes
  • Oil filter replacement
  • Fluid level checks and top-ups

Roadside Assistance and Towing

  • Towing service
  • Emergency roadside assistance

Safety and Emissions

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

Suspension and Steering

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

Tire Services

  • Tire sales and installation
  • Tire rotation and balancing
  • Wheel alignment