Art's Automotive in Berkeley

Great place, they know what they are doing and they are honest and direct about what needs to be fixed right now and what can wait.

Very nice and reliable people, now I know where I take my car to if I have problems!

Art s is da best

Very courteous smart and dedicated team here, thanks Paul and team!

Way overpriced and fairly rude. They probably do a good enough job based on other reviews (and the only reason why Im rating 2 stars) but I got the same work done elsewhere (A/C compressor replacement, which also came with a 2 year warranty) for over $1000 less without having to wait a week for an appointment

Outstanding! I had some questions about my 15 Gen 3 Prius. Spoke to Chris and he is super knowledgeable, helpful and gave me some great advise. Thank you Chris!

Very upfront and frank with the service you need. Timelines and updates are communicated promptly.

Fantastic team - met so many people who worked on vehicle and helped set up service, as well as just asking how I was doing - thanks to Morgan, Lute, Jacob, Chris, Virgil, Brad, and the whole Art s team. The AC was not functioning and Morgan checked whole system and got it vacuumed and charged making it work as designed and rechecked it several weeks later as part of the service (brief visit). Thanks to each of you for the ardent work and service explanations as well as just a hello. Good and trusted people here.

Thank you very much to Art, Lute, and everyone at Art s Automotive for making time for an appointment for me. Appreciated.

One of the best shops around. Absolutely trust them to tell it like it is, for better or worse

I love this auto shop! I came in just before closing with a small issue that they were willing to fix even though they were busy wrapping up and I am sure just wanted to go home. And they didnt even charge me. I have been in several times over the years and really appreciate how straight forward they are in explaining what is going on with my car and I have never felt like they try to upsell me.

Invited us in last-minute. Helped us diagnose a code on our Suburu, resolved it and charged us *nothing*! Wow, super nice people. We have definitely found our go-to shop.

Best auto shop there is period. Always a pleasure getting my car repaired by these fellas.

Fantastic knowledge to help with a transmission issue. Did a general search on the internet and found an article written by Paul Cortes. With a phone call to Arts Automotive to talk to Paul he helped me in detail, on how to make the repair. He sent out the part and I made the repair to his instructions. Several weeks later and over 2000 miles the 2005 prius is still running on the repair. Dont know any of the guys personally but if their anything like Paul, I would trust taking my car there for repairs. As I said I made a phone call because I dont live in CA. Paul was friendly enough to help a Toyota owner in PA. What does that tell you about Arts Automotive. Sincerely Barry (Prius Repair Guy)

I live in TN and they were unable to help me directly with my 295k 05 Prius combination meter. My options were limited: $3000 and 10 days at the dealer, $150 for a refurb, or fix it myself. When I called they gave me tips and all the guidance I needed to be back on the road same day. I even avoided breaking the AC ducts. Class act. I wish I had someplace near me that was this knowledgable and customer oriented. Thanks!

Such great customer service and can always count on them to be honest and fair!

Unfriendly, unhelpful. Said they cant work on the most popular business car in US- just wanted a tire change!!

Arts is my go to shop for any mechanical work for the last 20 years. Theyve worked on 4 cars for us over that time. They are friendly, honest and reliable.

Professional, timely, thorough and reasonably priced.

Sadly, unlike pretty much all the reviews out here, I did not have a great first experience at Art s Automotive. I decided to drop in to ask some questions (I didn t have an appointment, so I simply wanted some information on repairs for my 2017 Subaru WRX STi). Jared (?) was sitting at the front desk when I greeted him and proceeded to ask if they would be willing to take a look at my wrx for any internal mechanical damage from a small fender bender. He immediately told me they did not do any body work and pulled out a business card from the desk that had another shop s info (really appreciated but not quite what I was asking). I clarified and told him that I wasn t looking for body repairs, just a simple check up/inspection for damage. He then told me that they did not work on any new Subaru STi s and that I needed to have brought my car into Art s in the past to ever make an appointment with them because STi s are very difficult cars to service, which is absurd to say the least. What the hell? You re really going to dismiss anything I have to ask with another excuse as to why you won t work on my car? Sorry but you re literally a mechanic that specializes in Japanese makes like Subaru!! I don t know what he was thinking and, frankly, I don t care. All I know is two things: 1) they didn t want my business and 2) this is not how a 40+ year local mechanic shop should be treating new customers. Only reason as to why I give an extra star is because I only met one out of the many mechanics/workers, and I m sure that not all of them are like the unmotived dude I met. Everything from the reviews to the website gave me such high hopes for this shop, and I was even considering coming back if they would be able to help. I guess not anymore, and rest assured I will not be recommending this place to anyone.

Never thought Id find myself writing a review for a mechanic, but here I am because I had a fantastic experience at Arts Automotive today! They were thorough, honest, and clearly explained the inspection report helping me understand what services were needed, what might be coming soon, and what was in good shape. Their prices are fair and they communicated before performing any services to get a green light (no pun intended) from me. I would absolutely recommend Arts and will be coming back in the future :)

Arts is the best!

Art s treats you like family! I always feel like my car is in good hands.

So grateful to the team at Arts Automotive for taking our car before the holidays when we had an unexpected repair needed. They got it fixed right before they closed for the holidays. We really appreciate their quality work and timeliness in getting our car back on the road!

I used them for 30 years and they were great, but now they are out to gouge based on their reputation. The last time I went I felt ripped off, as I trusted them, and a neighbor who is a mechanic was shocked by how much they charged. Whatever they quote, compare to the dealership (which are always thought of as the most expensive option). For a valve adjustment for a Honda CR-V they want far more than what the dealer is charging, something like $550 compared to $350. It must be that Art is no longer in no longer running things. The whole vibe is different now.

I havent even got my car back yet, but these guys are wonderful. they have gone above and beyond fixing a water leak repair, which I know cant be their favorite, for my 20-yr old car which officially falls outside of their serviceable car cutoff age. they call each time the plan deviates even slightly from what they told me last. very helpful, so nice, and so committed to fixing this bummer of an issue i brought them.

Our family has gone to Art s for many years. Most excellent service and great people. I give my highest recommendation for putting your vehicles into their loving care.

Friendly service and expert automotive care at a reasonable price. Cant be beat!

Few days ago I had a minor automobile issue and I stumbled upon this business and talked to one of the guys.......He took care of my repair nice and quick and very affordable.... Nice guys nice place

Was hoping to make an appointment, but the shop said they wouldn t even look at a 99 Miata. I was told for work to be performed on my car that it had to be 02 or newer OR that I needed to be a pre-existing client. Stupidest policy I ve ever heard.

woooo!!

Great local green independent garage.

Great, honest mechanic.

Arts deserves ALL the stars! Their great reputation is well deserved.

Knowledgeable front desk folks who know their Honda and Toyota briefs. They would give their unfiltered evaluations of possible issues. Been a regular for 20+ years for the peace of mind that Lute, Eric, Chris et al gave me.

I love everybody who works at arts so much. They are honest and helpful and amazing

Excellent shop great mechanics. Highly recommended.

I have been bringing my car here exclusively for decades. There is a reason this auto shop has a cult following.

We have been going to Arts for our Honda minivan for years and have always had a great experience. Twice Ive stopped in for small, unexpected issues that they took care of on the spot without charging me! Great business!

We ve taken our cars here for 20 years and they always tell us what is needed vs what can wait.

Very good service! From the other side of the country, Paul took his time helping me understand and diagnose what was wrong with my 07 camry Hybrid. Thanks again for your patience and sharing your knowledge with me. This is the kind of company you hope to find when youre in need of help.

Hit a huge pothole at speed and had to get two tires replaced and wheels aligned. Just moved to the Bay and was recommended Arts by a colleague. They live up to their reviews and recommendations: very professional, efficient, honest, and fair. Strongly recommended!!

Arts is hands down the best. Top quality service - extremely capable communicaters.

We have been taking our cars to Arts for 15 years now, and have had consistently excellent service. They are efficient, communicative, respectful, and do a great job of keeping our cars running smoothly at a reasonable price point. It can take a few weeks to get in for a regular service, but when there is an emergency/urgent situation I have gotten service much faster. Once, my fan belt broke on my way to work, about 15 miles away. I didnt know what was wrong but Lute managed to diagnose the problem over the phone. I got my car towed to Arts at the end of the day and they fixed it for me in 24 hours. I had anticipated going many days without a car! I always recommend Arts and really appreciate them being there.

This shop is INCREDIBLE!! I was in the market for a used car and had a long back and forth with Chris at the shop about the vehicle I was looking at. He pulled records for me and advised me on a good purchase price and any issues I could expect from the vehicle. Did I mention he did all of this for FREE?! The vehicle is also an old Saab which can be hard to service, but he told me Arts would help me out with the car whenever I need. I really feel that I can trust the shop to give me honest advice and genuine car services. Go to Arts!!

Honest, knowledgable shop for japanese car

A big thanks to Jarred at Arts automotive! My car broke down across the street at the smog station right after I passed smog and I couldnt get the car to start. I walked over to Arts to see if anyone there could help and this guy leaped into action. Turned out my starter was on the way out but he got the car to start one more time and I made it home. Saved me from a tow home for sure!

We have been taking our cars there for decades. The work done is quality and the staff is knowledgeable and friendly.

I have been going here for years. The best mechanic in the bay area with attentive and courteous staff. Would recommend to friends/family/strangers.

Finding a place you trust to work on your car is priceless.

Kind considerate and fair mechanics, especially in explaining details to someone who was not taught these matters.

Highly recommend! Art s was thoughtful and helpful every step of the way when I brought in my vehicle after the catalytic converter was stolen. They even gave a discount when they found out my insurance wouldn t cover much of the repair. Everyone was a class act and very knowledgeable.

i came across an article these guys have written regarding fixing a combo meter in a prius, very helpful and informative, no self-promotion type of thing, but genuinely advising people on how to manage to do it yourself (not easy). Unfortunately, i dont live anywhere near CA, otherwise, i wouldve simply taken my car to them, but i decided to call and ask for advice regarding the capacitors. i thought if someone writes an article like that providing help to the self-doers, then these guys would be the best to ask. And im glad I did. I ended up talking to Paul Cortes, and he spent some time with me on the phone going over the capacitors, explaining what i needed to do, answering my questions, and other little details that were missed in other stuff ive read. Im very grateful for the advice and help hes given me!! He also emailed me with additional info and parts I needed. I wish many other businesses treated people like this, understood that this what brings in the customers and earns them loyalty, this is what people notice and react to-kindness and genuine willingness to help. Paul, thank you, and keep up the good work! BTW, notice how high their rating is (4.9) and how many good reviews these guys got, must be a reason for that ;))

This is the best mechanic in the east bay,.

They dont service cars older than 2005 unless youre a current customer, so save your time calling them if youre new. They did offer me names of other businesses, though.

Went here to have my key fob reshelled.

Knowledgeable, friendly, trustworthy. Main downside is that their customers love them.

These folks are the best. Professional, clean and quick. They have taken care of my cars for about 15 years. Always a great experience.

Super nice folks, patient and clear in communication. They fixed my Prius key fob, and were generous with time and knocking off a bit of labor. Highly recommend.

I have been going to Art s for years! I have recommended them to so many people with great results. They explain everything in an accessible way, they don t overcharge even though their service is superior, and they are the only mechanics outside my family that I have ever trusted.

Trustworthy and straightforward +clear with their process from start to finish.

Best mechanics Ive ever had. Ive taken my last two cars (Subarus) here for everything that needs doing. The guys here are super friendly, efficient, and professional and communicate the whole way though process. As long as I keep buying japanese imports, Ill be taking my cars to Arts!

What can I possibly say about my neighborhood automotive store that has not been said already!? They are absolutely the best in business-- professional, knowledgeable, honest and good people. I have been doing business with them for the last 15 years with our 4 Japanese made cars for the whole family. We can trust Arts with our cars 100% . They give us their honest opinion and let us decide what we want serviced and when. We have never had any unexpected issues come up because these cars are kept in best shape by Arts. Thank you Arts Automotive! You guys are gold!

My representative was Lute. He was so professional, helpful and patient while we were working out the challenging details with my insurance company. Thank you, Lute!!

I have been going to Arts Automotive for years now and highly recommend their services. Their team is professional, and I feel taken care of every visit I have with them. As someone who does not know much about cars, I really value (and trust) their consultation and genuine desire to help you make the best decision for your car and wallet.

I love these guys! Super honest, great communicators, and solid mechanics at a reasonable price. Ive taken my car here for over a decade and theyve always given me good advice on what really needs to be fixed now and what can wait. Thank you, Arts!

Friendly, patient, and honest team! I parroted a laundry list of tasks that...momma told me to get serviced, and Luke talked me through the requests and advised against an item he thought unnecessary. As a non-car person, its nice to feel like I can trust these guys!

The best.

Such great service and speedy work. This was my first visit as my automotive shop has recently closed. Will for sure go back to Arts for all my car needs.

Great service that is well explained and delivered

Always good to talk to the people at Arts

Honest, good repair mechanic

Fast, friendly service! A bit hard to find the front door... Walked in to get a quote for a broken taillight repair. They were warm, greeting me quickly, and helped after a brief wait (less than 5 minutes). I had my VIN number so they did a quick search and gave me the quote in also a very quick 5 minutes. The whole thing went so smoothly and I didnt even have any work done yet! Their sign says they specialize in Honda, Accord, Toyota, Subaru... I plan to have the job done at Arts!

Excellent shop.

Lute, Christan, rest of workforce 5

Very helpful staff. Work is done on the timeline given.

We love Arts, we take our Prius and our Pathfinder there for services. Quick, quality, honest service.

Arts is great!

Great helpful honest informative mechanics!

Best service I have

My friend had her 20 year old car stolen so when she got it back, the ignition had to be repaired and rebuilt. They did good work on the car and she had it back in 5 days.

I absolutely recommend Arts Automotive. They are truly amazing to work with - kind, knowledgeable, prompt, honest, and professional. I had SUCH an above and beyond experience- best service ever. Plus very reasonable pricing, incredible value, and proactive communication with my auto insurance. I am forever grateful to Lute for all of his help - such thorough and swift communication, trustworthy advice, and expert knowledge. He answered my many questions with patience and compassion. I felt like I was in such good hands.

Phenomenal service on Japanese cars.

First time here. So far, so good!

Great service and knowledgeable service people.

Efficient, professional but expensive

Great place

Automotive Art has a Toyota Prius for there Cover. Lame Lame Lame.

Always great service, they take the time to explain all repairs in detail. Will even explain why they didnt need to repair something yet.

They know what theyre doing and do it good

Good service, predatory pricing

I was a potential customer but when I called for an appointment, they advised me differently. They spent time to ask me detailed questions to ensure that I was making the right decisions. They are completely honest in an industry where honesty is difficult to find.

These guys are a so honest and professional, I cant refer my friends anywhere else. Knowledgeable, friendly and they arent out to get every penny from your pocket.

OMG. I wish there was a six stars button for Arts automotive. We took our Mazda 3 here to get diagnosed and fixed. A different, less reputable, place told us we had to get several items fixed on the car. At Arts, they were so honest. They did a great job explaining to us what fixes were a safety concern and what fixes were not necessary. Truly appreciate this honesty!

Brought in the car with a Stealership note for needing two axles and four bushings. Mechanics correctly diagnosed problem as one axle and no bushings. Work performed in four hours and pickup cost was six hundred forty dollars.

Since 2005 I have taken three different Japanese autos here; Toyota Camry - Infiniti J30 and Prelude; truth be told this is the only place I would take cars to and they are a gem

excellent work, fair prices, friendly service

Not cheap, not pricy, great work and always willing to go the extra mile. They are very transparent on their work and charges. Requires drop off in the morning (8-10am) for services on that day even with appointment.

Good service and fair prices. I feel they are very honest in what they tell you.

I am a total gear head! I have a Toyota truck, Miata and 2 motorcycles. I have been using Arts for the past few years now. I am always pleased with the work that they do. I have dealt with a lot of shops over the years. I am very comfortable taking my Tacoma and Miata to their shop. They are very honest and knowledgeable. I am very lucky to have such a great shop that services the 2 vehicles I own......I highly recommend Arts if you have a Toyota or Mazda.

Had to get a radiator repaired. Price was fair, and the shop called beforehand explaining all my options and asking what I wanted done.

Exactly what youd want in a mechanic. Thank you!

Great, fast service at a reasonable price!

The family has an old Scion XB and an older Honda. The outside of these cars is just beat. But the insides work beautifully because Arts keeps track of everything and does all maintenance on schedule. Even better they look for anything that needs attention each visit.

Very competent & totally honest, with 3 cars of mine over 25yr.

I took a 2013 Subaru Impreza with 45,000 miles on it that I was interested in purchasing to Arts for a pre purchase inspection. $143 later and 6.5 hours later I was provided a printout that basically recommended a bunch of different things based on mileage. Things that truly merit an inspection were not inspected. Are the head gaskets ok? Is there any oil leak? Any issues with the transmission? Instead of spending that money to tell me I needed new windshield wipers, more engine coolant in the reservoir and new tires, take that $143 and can you do a detailed check on the areas of the car that indicate if it has major issues? Its possible that other areas of the car were inspected, and as the paperwork indicates, they dont mention, unless there is an issue. But I called around to the Subaru Dealer and another mechanic, and told them what Arts recommended I do, and they basically said that there is no reason to do any of it until the car is higher in mileage. I went to Arts solely based on reviews, and I feel I spent to much and got too little.

Very thorough. Professional. Nice.

Fair prices

We are loyal customers simply because we trust their expertise on auto maintenance

Ive been a customer for 15 or 20 years. Always do the job right, would never rip you off. Will explain everything if you ask. I especially like the service writers, who seem to be mechanics themselves. This is very helpful when you have to explain something. Great shop!

Just really helpful, highly recommended (to me and by me), honest experts.

Amazing service!!! Price is decent. They always do a thorough job in checking out my car and a thorough job explaining whats wrong. A+++++++++

They are great for Japanese cars.

Good place

Arts is great. They do a good job, they work efficiently, and they are all nice people. I feel like they are honest and they have never tried to push extra service on me. It seems like they have my best interest in mind, which is important for me because I know nothing about cars!

Im satisfied

I commend Arts for their recent achievement on receiving a gold star from the City of Berkeleys Water Smart program! Go Green!

We got a toyota prius serviced here. people are very nice and the prices seem fair.

Great service

Been going to Arts since 1996. They are professional, do excellent work, friendly, knowledgeable/intelligent staff, and eco-conscious. Have recommended them to several people over the years that are also still customers.

Ive been a customer for almost 25 years and have only bought cars that they will work on. They are honest and trustworthy and skilled. Love to all, especially Ann & Art. They are the best in the ENTIRE bay area. I live across the hill now but still endure the trek to know I will get excellent service for a reasonable price.

Im a car guy, if that holds any sway with you, and I go pretty far out of my way to bring my two cars to Arts. They arent particularly cheap (except when compared to the dealer), and they are always busy so you will need an appointment. So why 5 stars? I. Trust. Them. They do good work, and they will never try to rip you off. So even if you dont know cars, take yours here with confidence.

As a person who has been swindled by many mechanics Im always sceptical of repair places but I have to say getting my 2004 Honda CRVS transmission code pulled and fix was quick, a decent price and the staff is seems pretty down to earth and personable. Ill definitely be using these guys in the future if I have any more car problems. Thanks guys! Simple problem, simple fix and it didnt cost a arm and leg...

Honest and always so knowledgeable. Been coming here for 5 years and couldnt ask for a better place!

Trustworthy. Highly knowledgeable and patient. Quality work. If you own a car that Arts services and live in Oakland or Berkeley this is the place to take it. Only downside is that you must drop your car off by 9am. Worth it though. Customer for 4 years.