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Independence Car Service
Categories: Automotive Auto Repair Automotive Body Shops Auto Repair, Body Shops [Edit]
2415 Old Middlefield WaySte B
Mountain View, CA 94043
(650) 964-2033
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 8 am - 5 pm
89 reviews for Independence Car Service
89 reviews in English
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Review from Aruna S.
San Francisco, CA
4/26/2012
This is a family owned business, and the owner, Volodya and his son, Misha, really care about doing a good job and actually helping their customers. Most of the clientele is Russian and they can be the toughest customers (I can vouch for it being one myself:)), so this is a good sign. The service was fast and they gave us correct time estimates for the service duration. Not only Volodya gave us a thorough check and oil change for $32 but also he did not charge us original $50 for checking our power window mechanism, which was totally unexpected! We have a much better idea of what we need to fix in our car, and we are definitely coming back there for future check-ups! Spasibo vam, Independence Car Service!
By the way, it is best to make an appointment early in the morning (8am), since by 10 am, you will see a continuous stream of customers. -
Review from Henry Y.
4/20/2012
A nice, clean and friendly place. Their prices vary a bit depending on what work you have done, with some very reasonable and some not, in my opinion. So going in a little informed is still a good idea. But in all cases they are more reasonable than doing it at the dealer. My gal Jenny Z swears by them and has been going there for years!
The fact that they give you a loaner car for services that are not that time consuming is awfully nice! I would definitely come again. -
Review from Jenny Z.
Palo Alto, CA
4/13/2012
I've been trapped by many car service shops and wasted a lot of money and time. I finally landed on this one and have been with them for more than 10 years since I used them for the first time. I also referred friends to them as I am confident that my friends will find the best and most honest service and reasonable price here. All my friends are happy with their services so far.
The owner is very knowledgeable but always give his clients the best advice to save them money and hassle. Some of my experience below:
1. When I got my Aura Integra brand new in 2000, I went to ask them to fix the emergency light issue. Instead of charging me hundreds of dollars of service fee, the owner advised me to contact Aura dealer to get it fix for free (under new car coverage). That service took Aura 2 times, many hours of diagnostic tests, and a few days (they lent me a rental car) to finally fix it completely. And the best thing is I paid $0 and had no hassle and argument. I am so grateful the owner helped me to get over this trouble in such a nice way without earning a dime himself.
2. One time the mechanic of my front door window was broken, the part was expensive to replace. The owner suggested me to use a used part and gave me extra discount on his labor charge. I really felt having a good friend to lend me a shade in the raining day.
3. I went to them to ask for a major service (over $300) recently. but after examining my car, they told me my car only needed a minor service (under $100) at this time, saved me at least $200!
And many many more... Go to check them out to find you own experience. -
Review from Vikas B.
Palo Alto, CA
12/29/2011
Vlad and team are very professional and honest. You know you are not getting ripped off. Vlad gives you advice that is good for your car and your pocket, not for his bottomline. He is honest about when he can't deal with a certain issue. On a couple of occasions they have misdiagnosed my issues, but always treated me fairly. They once diagnosed my issue to be a malfunctioning fuel pump relay. He changed it. 2 weeks later the issue resurfaced. He promptly refunded me for the fuel pump and changed it back. Another time, i had an error code due to EGR flow / potentitally dirt in the intake manifold. He said given age of your car, don't bother fixing it (until I needed a smog check, which unfortunately I did need in a few months and had to go to another mechanic to get past the issue without spending $1300 the dealership was asking to fix the issue on a car that is worth around $4k).
Overall, I like this place because I have confidence that they are not out to make a sucker out of me and line their pockets. To have that confidence in your neighborhood mechanic is worth its weight in gold. I have knocked off one star because twice they could not diagnose/fix my issue, which another mechanic could. Overall, you can go here with your eyes closed and have confidence that they will treat you fairly. -
Review from John F.
Milpitas, CA
2/13/2012
I've been coming to this place for a few years now. Their quality of work is great and their prices are within reason. But most importantly, they're honest with me, even turning away business because I didn't need parts changed yet. The only problem is they've gotten more busy so the wait time is longer. Darn yelp *shakes fists*
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Review from Erica B.
Sunnyvale, CA
9/14/2011
My review is a little unorthodox but its warranted. This will give you an idea of my outstanding experience at Independence. http://www.youtube.com...
Thanks so much guys! -
Review from Dave S.
Sunnyvale, CA
11/6/2011
I've been taking my ancient Integra here for years whenever I have an issue I can't solve myself. Vladimir and crew always are professional, friendly and honest, even when dealing with people who are obviously in a bad mood or don't understand what "no" means.
During the last two months I've been in to see them twice, with intermittent problems (the worst kind!). In both cases, they took a few days to solve the problem and make sure everything was correct, but I knew that would be the case. The car is now reliable and purring like a happy kitten again! -
Review from katie l.
Sunnyvale, CA
12/1/2011
My first time here. Wanted to get an oil change for my Acura RDX but didn't want to pay $100 for dealership to do it. These guys are professional and straight to the point. Oil Change with Synthetic = $70 including tax. Not open on weekends. :-( However, I was able to get an appointment early before work on a weekday. I have a soft spot for Russian men and I did enjoy listening to them talk in their native tongue as I waited. :-)
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Review from Ida C.
Mountain View, CA
3/19/2011
I took my crap, beat-up car here years ago after finding Vladmir via Yelp and I never looked back. The first time I called, he told me I could swing by any time between working hours (8am-6pm). When I explained to him I could only drop off the car during lunchtime and needed to get a back to work, he offered me the loaner car for the rest of the day. Another time the loaner wasn't available and one of the mechanics shoo'ed me into a van and shuttled me to work (granted, I'm only a few exits away but still it was great service).
I've called around to get quotes on various services and the ones that Vladmir gives me are by far the most reasonable and I always feel that he does a thorough and stellar job. Once, he called to let me know that he noticed my vehicle was due for an oil change and asked if I needed him to take my car across the street from his shop to have it done. My last t interaction with Honda-Acura Service was regarding the need to have a windshield replaced and they told me while they can do the work, they'd be acting as the middle-man given they don't typically fix windshields. They gave me the number of the company they work with to have such work done and suggested I call the windshield folks since I would get a better deal if I went straight to the source.
The best experience I've ever had with any mechanic that wasn't a friend of a friend or some distant, slightly ornery relative. I didn't think I'd ever meet a hardworking, honest mechanic. At this rate, I should start playing lotto or begin believing in unicorns. -
Review from Amogh A.
Mountain View, CA
3/16/2012
These guys deserve every single of the five stars I have given them. I have a 2011 CRV which needed regular servicing. I asked for an early appointment, and got an 8 AM one. I reached this place at 7.59, and it opened right on time. Everything was going as normal, until they noticed that I did not have my wheel locks with me (I know, very stupid of me). I searched my car to no avail, and realized must have forgotten it at home. I apologized to them for it, and asked if there was a work around. They said that it was necessary, and then to my surprise, they gave me a alternate car so I could go home and get it. All through the folks at Independence were very helpful and courteous. After everything was done, they explained me the status of all of my systems and how soon before they might need to be replaced. I'm very impressed, and will be coming here for anything I need from now on.
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Review from Sue A.
Mountain View, CA
12/9/2010
I took my Honda here the day before Thanksgiving because the brakes were making funny noises. They gave me an excellent price (compared to other places I've been/the dealer) and had it done within a few hours, even on a really busy day. When they couldn't figure it out immediately, they took me in the car with them for a ride around town so they could see the car in action.
I also was late getting out of a movie, and Vladmir stayed late so that I could swing by and get it on the way home.
There were also a number of satisfied return customers waiting when I arrived, which really says something.
The technicians all appreciated my kick scooter as well (which I used to get home from the shop when I left my car), so they get extra points for being cool. -
Review from Erica J.
9/1/2011 1 Check-in Here
Vladmir was straightforward and honest, and I wish I lived in the area instead of just visiting friends, so I could regularly take my car to him for service. Although I had a bit of a wait (1.5 hours) and paid ~$36 for an oil change, I appreciated that he took a look at my engine to see if he could see/hear what was wrong and give me his expert opinion with reservations. I ended up opting only for an oil change because of the time factor and the estimated cost of a possible repair. The staff is courteous and helpful; it's a small shop, though, so you have to wait for someone to notice you're there when it gets busy.
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Review from Crunchy C.
Palo Alto, CA
3/8/2011
Having used this place for several years, my overall impression is mostly positive, with reservations.
On the plus side, they get the basics right by being fundamentally good mechanics. They've done a fine job replacing my fluids, plugs, bearings, and belts. Prices seems about average, i.e. $650 for a Honda timing belt & water pump combo. And contrary to the stereotypical mechanic, these guys lean on the conservative side when it comes to recommending maintenance, i.e. saying to not bother replacing the spark plug wires on my 100,000+ mile Accord. In fact, they never once gave an explicit suggestion to have a service done.
But sometimes they go too far in that direction. I once came in thinking my Mazda's engine mounts had worn out based on absurd low-speed vibration, clunks when shifting between Reverse and Drive, and another mechanic's diagnosis. Head honcho Vladimir would have none of it, declaring after a 30-second test drive that my car's too old or I'm too sensitive. I've owned enough cars to know it definitely isn't normal, and later that day I got an opinion from a third mechanic confirming that the mounts really are shot. Yet Vlad, convinced that his diagnosis is the Word of God, just got dismissive and snappy, declining to elaborate or help explain other possible causes. What I did get was a declaration that he would never do the work (not that I'd asked) and a scolding to go take my car to the dealer.
On a related note, more than one of my encounters mirrored those of the reviewers who mentioned having to sit around for 15 minutes before they acknowledge your presence, then another 15 before looking at your car.
I don't regret the services I've had done here, but I'm thinking their helpfulness and courtesy could use a tune-up. -
Review from D G.
Palo Alto, CA
11/28/2011
Not surprised to see such fantastic reviews. I've had numerous things done for my 97 integra. These guys are very professional and understanding when it comes to old cars that aren't really worth that much.
Thanks and I hope they continue this high level of service. -
Review from Nat C.
Mountain View, CA
8/26/2009
So, my high mileage, past all warranty, '03 Civic needed some major work done. I'm talking over $1,000. I knew it and was expecting a pretty hefty quote. I chose to start with Honda-Acura Service Independence because of the stellar reviews.
When I arrive, I talk to Vladimir (I think). I describe the car's issues. His first question was "Why didn't you take it to the dealer?" I remind him of the car's mileage and explain some of my past experiences with dealership service departments. We go for a test drive to confirm the car's issues. After we get back to the shop, he tells me he isn't comfortable with diagnosing the car and I need to take it to Anderson Honda. At this point I'm sure I looked quite exasperated (I was NOT impolite at any point).
He said, "Look, take it in, have them diagnose it properly. It will cost you $100 to find out exactly what is wrong." If they recommended any expensive work he said for me to call back and then we could go from there. So that's exactly what I did. I left feeling somewhat dejected and like they couldn't be bothered with me or my injured car. I almost wrote an emo song and turned my bike into a fixie!
Anyway, the dealership's quote was, as I suspected it would be, more than double what I was expecting. Like over $3,200. I call Honda-Acura Service Independence back, during business hours. Nobody answers, I leave a message. Nobody ever called me back.
Somebody mentioned "Honesty" in a prior review. I don't know if these guys honestly couldn't fix my car, honestly didn't want to take the time to diagnose it's problems (I could understand that), or what. Who knows.
Maybe they honestly didn't want my business. Fine. They won't get it. Only reason it's not one star is because dude was polite. -
Review from Tom W.
Palo Alto, CA
2/27/2009
Unlike most 5-star restaurants, nothing here blew me away, but in a field with so many horror stories, the solid and well-priced experience I had at Honda-Acura Service Independence was enough to merit 5-stars from me. I came here with a shaky steering wheel. They quickly identified the problem was with my front tires. They recommended the lower priced tires based on my driving habits and gave an honest recommendation that my rear tires could go a couple thousand more miles, though I decided to get them replaced too.
They gave a very reasonable price and finished on time and on-quote. And the new tires and balancing totally fixed the problem. That's about all you can ask for from a mechanic and more than I often expect. -
Review from suzan s.
Menlo Park, CA
9/19/2011
Excellent prices and service. He was even going to drive me to a coffee shop while I waited for the repair.
Took the car to a Chevron, and they quoted me at $850. At independence it was around $250.
Quick, trustworthy and hassle-free. Will be my go-to person for all car needs. -
Review from Tek O.
San Jose, CA
7/21/2009
Some will say, "Show me an honest car mechanic and I'll show you flying monkey."
Enter Vladimir.
Driving around the other day, my engine started to knock and the check engine light fires on. I bring it into Vladimer, he runs some diagnostics, finds that the idle control value is busted, replaces, and I'm on my way.
Driving around the next day, same problem. Engine starts to knock and check engine light fires on. WTF. I hand the car back to Vladimir.
Couple days later, I get a call from Vladimir notifying me that he wants to rule out any possible problems with the ECU and wants to bring my car into the dealership for further diagnostics.
No problem.
Few more days later, I receive a call from Vladimir notifying my car is fixed and everything is running great.
Superb.
When I went to pick up my car, Vladimir felt so bad for my troubles that he refused to charge me. That's right, don't even wurry 'bout it!
Serious? It's on the house?
Now there's no way I can take money from a honest, hard working man, so finally Vladimir agreed to charge me for some of the dealership bill.
Simply amazing.
So now where's my flying monkey? -
Review from Roy C.
San Francisco, CA
9/10/2009
I've always wanted to write a review for this place since I've been here about 3 times for my 2000 Acura TL -- I guess I just wanted to see if their incredible service and trustworthiness is actually consistent. And after 3 visits, I can say with absolute certainty that it is.
Vladimir is honestly the only car repair shop owner I've ever met who actually has a heart of gold. He's always patient, upfront, and transparent whenever he talks to you about your car's issues (and believe me, my car had a crapload of issues). I've met him three times but I would trust him with my life.
The best part is that he doesn't try to scam you out of your money. Every time I went to any other auto repair shops for a single problem, they always come back to me telling me that there's 5 other problems that NEED to be fixed IMMEDIATELY -- which turns a $50 repair job into a $500 job. At Honda-Acura Independence, however, Vladimir always lays it out on the table and says: "Ok we fixed your issue. You may consider fixing this other stuff, but honestly, it's not that important right now so you could wait a year."
Most recently, I needed a tire alignment done for my Acura TL, and so I called around to get quotes. Every place I called quoted me at $100-200 for an alignment job. Vladimir quoted me at $60, and charged me only $60. Now that's a honest man who isn't trying to squeeze as much money out of me as he can.
A couple years ago, I had an issue with my transmission, so I brought it in for him to look at. He took about 30 minutes running diagnostics on my car and test driving it, only to give me an inside tip that I could get a new transmission for free from the dealership because there was some lawsuit with Acura TL owners having faulty transmissions. That tip saved me $5,000. The greatest thing, though, was that he didn't even charge me at all for the 30 minutes I took out of his day and that awesome tip. ZERO CHARGE. I felt so bad that I had to give him a $20 bill just as a thank you -- he didn't accept. I think he knew that by not accepting that $20, he just made a loyal customer for life. He was right.
If you're a Honda or Acura owner, this is the ONLY auto repair shop you'll ever need. -
Review from M. C.
Redwood City, CA
2/12/2008
Been taking our cars here for 13 years. Every once in awhile I try someplace else -- I always come back. They're very honest and cheaper than the other shops.
Vladimir will lay out the options and make recommendations about what needs to be repaired immediately, what can wait for awhile, etc. You get to make the choices -- he doesn't arm twist you.
Note that this is a garage, not a dealership. There's no waiting room, just a couple of chairs and a stack of magazines. The loaner cars are real beaters, not nice dealership loaner cars. So if you care about nice ambiance and getting an espresso while your car gets repaired and hand washed, this place isn't that kind of place.
But you'll never find better or more honest mechanics. -
Review from Ben G.
Palo Alto, CA
3/12/2011
I had to deal with some repairs last-minute before driving to see family out of state. These guys somehow squeezed me in, rushed to get the repairs done, and though I wanted to buy tires at Costco for them to install for me, they explained to me how it would be cheaper to do it at Costco and that I'd get a better warranty if I let Costco do the tire installation. I thought that was a classy touch since it would have been a quick and easy buck for them to install the new tires.
I've been to this place a number of times before this and each time they've taken good care of me. A solid recommendation. -
Review from Pete C.
San Francisco, CA
2/11/2007
Updated Review:
I've come back to Independence Acura several times now, including the infamous ~100K timebelt change and have been very satisfied. I've recommended several people to come here to get their Honda's serviced.
I like how Vladimir will take a few minutes to explain any problems and give me the honest talk on what needs and what doesn't need to be changed. I've never had an unfortunate surprise here.
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I've only come here for a 90k service check up on my honda accord and Vladimir seemed very honest and reliable. I had no issues getting my car checked up. I'm willing to come back to him for some other future services and am holding out final judgment on him. It's always hard to find a good mechanic that you can trust but so far he has mine. Stay tuned!Listed in: Trustworthy Mechanics
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Review from Laura C.
Fremont, CA
9/14/2008
Pretty decent place to get your car serviced. I called around several places that I had looked up on Yelp & Cartalk to find the spot with the most reasonable prices. Honda-Acura Independence was close to my work, got great reviews, had reasonable prices, and also provided loaner cars.
Now to put it to the test:
I went in for a major maintenance: Got there first thing in the morning, dropped off my car, and got a loaner. Note: Their loaner cars are NOT cars you would use to pick up a first date, but they serve their purpose. I must have gotten a mid 80's Nissan Maxima, but that didn't bother me - as long as it got me from point A to point B, that's perfectly fine. PIcked up my car hours later, everything was A-OK, paid the amount I was quoted, and went on my way. It was overall a pretty straightforward transaction - they did not find any "problems" with my car as other mechanics may find (additional charges). It's been several months since I went, and my car's still running strong (I guess it could still be running strong regardless if I went for my maintenance or not, but it shows my car left the shop in tip top shape). I should have probably also mentioned that I'm a female customer.
Service was acceptable - neither friendly or cruddy. Keep in mind that when picking up your car at the end of the day, there may be a wait. When I went back to pick up my car, there were about 3 or 4 other people waiting to pick up their car as well. Vladimir was the only guy behind the counter - if he spends just 5 minutes with each person, that's already at least a 15 minute wait.
Overall, I'm a satisfied customer. I'll be back the next time I need auto service. -
Review from Maryling Y.
Los Altos, CA
9/10/2007
An honest mechanic is a woman's best friend, and Vladimir is as honest as the day is long. We used to get our 2000 Honda Accord serviced at the dealership, but have switched over to Independence and Vladimir because 1) the prices are a LOT lower and more reasonable; 2) the quality of the work is comparable, so you get a lot more bang for your buck; and 3) Vladimir provides personalized service and takes time to explain to you what is wrong with your car and sets you at ease.
The only negative I can possibly even think of about his place is that he does such good work that he has gotten very popular so he is extremely busy (and deservedly so)! But you shouldn't let that deter you - don't even *think* about taking your Honda or Acura anywhere else... -
Review from Ray H.
Castro Valley, CA
1/7/2008
Car:
Honda Prelude
Service Done:
Clutch replacement
Review:
This is my 2nd clutch that has been replaced. Vladimir, the owner, was the first out of all the mechanics I dealt with that actually took me behind the desk and showed me the work that needed to be done to my car on his computer along with the hours stated by the manual for this particular job. He offered a competitive price since my first clutch job was $200 more. He replaced all parts with OEM parts, resurfaced the flywheel, and used genuine Honda MTF for my tranny. He explained everything clearly and took the necessary time to answer my questions while there was a line waiting for him. That shows that he is more about quality than quantity of car jobs.
The reason for the 5th star...
On top of all that, my car was serviced on December 28, 2007! Right before the new year! I called several shops before and after I called Vladimir and everyone else said they won't start my car until January 3, 2008. I brought the car in on Dec. 27, (the day after my car died on me) and he started work on Dec. 28. Because of the weekend and New Years Day, Vladimir and his team finished my car on Jan. 2! It's been a week, and the car shifts with ease!
I am completely satisfied with the work done, his candor, and time efficiency. Even though I live up in Hayward area, I will go to him for all major work on my car. Happy New Year! -
Review from Usha P.
Los Gatos, CA
Updated - 9/28/2011
All I can say is : This is long overdue. Vladimir and Misha, and the whole staff are incredibly efficient. Vlad is the most honest professional I have met. When i moved here 5 years ago, I had plenty unfortunate moments with my car at other places; then, I found Vlad. He will tell you what your car needs, and what it does not - meaning he will never cheat you. He is kind, knowledgable, and timely. I told him that I would have to move if he ever moves.
They will even give you a ride if it's not far. So, there are not enough words except to say his loyal and repeat customers says it all..
usha1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/5/2010
I have been going to the most effiecient, honest, and human professional in the car business that I… Read more »
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Review from A L.
Palo Alto, CA
6/2/2009
I will never take my car anywhere else. This place is great. The people that work here are the most knowledgeable you will find, and very honest.
Members of my family have been coming here for years. When I was younger and started driving, this is the only place my dad took my car for maintenace. We always came here rushed, with a sudden car dilemma and in need of a very quick fix. And we always got exactly what we needed - a very quick, affordable job. -
Review from Tim W.
San Francisco, CA
1/19/2010
I had a engine check light came on and my co-worker told me this would be a good place to go check it out. I went in the afternoon and talked to Michael and he got me the code reading in a sec. Even took the time to write the code for me. Reset it for me, told me to drive around and see if the light still comes on.
I would definitely come here for service since Honda dealer charges $145.00 just for diagnostic (means plug in the device and run the code for 1 min).
I would recommend this place for all Honda-Acura! -
Review from L J.
Palo Alto, CA
Updated - 12/27/2011
So my car had starting making this gawd-aweful rattling noise under the hood. I took it back to this place expecting it to leave a huge dent in my wallet. When I picked it up, he said it was timing belt related (see previous post) and he would fix it under warranty because they stand by their work. I love that they are honest, hard-working and a no B.S. type of business. It is their honesty that keeps me as a repeat customer, even though I now live 40 miles away. I ONLY trust them with my car. I can't say enough THANK YOUS!! :)
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/10/2011
Thank you yelpers! I had just needed my timing belt replaced like every other car does eventually.… Read more »
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Review from Angie J.
San Ramon, CA
7/2/2007
I brought my Honda CRV to Vladimir upon reading reviews on Yelp. I was very happy with the service, promptness, and the costs for the many small repairs I needed. I will definitely be coming back.
They do offer shuttle service but only within a 3 mile radius. I work in downtown PA so I had to find my own ride. It wasn't a problem for me. -
Review from Derrick R.
Sunnyvale, CA
10/5/2008
Vladimir and his crew are the best.
They are quick, honest, and as far as car repairs go, affordable.
I have brought my honda civic here on two seperate occasions and both times I stuck around happily and let Vladimir show mw exactly what was wrong with my car. Not only that, but they found a couple other things that were in urgent need of repair. Now I know what you may be thinking : He suckered you into spending more money. But that isn't the case, the other things they found did indeed need repair or replacing and it was easy to see why. Vladimir isn't pushy.
The second time, I had to have a seal replaced in between the engine and the transmission to fix a leak which meant pulling the transmission. This is a big expensive job and Vlad was trying to actually find reasons NOT to do it. But we did it and it was the right decision. Not only that but he did a full transmission flush and replaced my front brake pads.
So, Pull the transmission, replace engine side seal, transmission flush and replace front brake pads All done in the same day and all for about $700. That may seem like alot but imagine what the dealer would have charged. I think I got a damn good deal.
I recommend this place and I thank yelp for helping me find it. -
Review from Ryan B.
Santa Clara, CA
5/27/2009
Well I went there just for an oil change because I have been trying to get an oil change for a while. It was a good rate, considering the car that I drive. I was very happy with what had happened. They even take the time to fully inspect your car and tell you what is wrong with it.
They told me that my struts were shot and I had an uneven tire (I never would have really suspected that) and they provided suggestions. These people are very honest, and I am very glad that I found them here on Yelp!
I am happy with the service that they provided me and I will always be coming back here. Thanks very much! -
Review from John J.
Mountain View, CA
10/5/2007
My 97 Honda Civic, with an 'interference' engine, needed to have its camshaft drive belt and water pump replaced at 60,000 miles. One local shop quoted a very high figure for this simple (and calibrated in the Honda shop manual for time needed) service--apparently they thought customers wouldn't bother to find out; another local shop, very highly rated by users, was casual and disinterested when asked to quote (they did not even bother to call back).
Vladimir was the polar opposite: polite, efficient and economical, and his work was done on time, in budget. I highly recommend this shop. -
Review from Steph F.
San Francisco, CA
5/3/2010
So when the rear differential on my CRV started making the infamous moaning noise, I looked around for somewhere to get get the fluid replaced.
I'm a student so I don't have a lot of time to get my car fixed or anything like that. I arrived a little more than an hour before the shop was supposed to close up expecting somebody to yell at me for being an idiot for coming in that late.
Of course Vladimir gave me some weird looks, but when I explained to him the crazy school schedule I was on, he agreed to have the fluid changed.
I was charged the price that I was quoted over the phone, and I went home happy with zero moaning in my rear diffs.
I'll be back here for sure if car troubles resurface. -
Review from Boris S.
Santa Clara, CA
10/27/2010
Most honest mechanic I've ever met.
Know him since 2007.
Will tell you what you need to replace and what you don't.
Will show you parts he replaced and problem places of your car, i.e. you see what they really did.
Moreover he is cool and generous guy!
He inspected Acura TL for my friend *FREE OF CHARGE* (that's 1 hour of labor) after he learned that my friend is going west coast to east coast trip. -
Review from Chris N.
San Francisco, CA
8/16/2007
Great mechanics. Will explain everything, meet a quoted price even if they have to discount cost of labor, call you with updates, honestly help you and your car. If you have a Honda/Acura, BRING YOUR CAR HERE. I'm lazy, so I'll copy part of my review of another garage that tried to screw me over before Independence saved me:
"I brought my car in for an engine noise problem and was told later that my car needed a new water pump, timing belt, bearings, etc. in addition to a fluid flush and new tires. Everything without the tires was quoted at $1500 and the tires put it over $2000. I called one other random garage to get a quote on a water pump and the guy sounded incredulous that I needed a new water pump with only 65k miles.
I paid my diagnostic fee and took my car (thanks to yelp) to Independence Auto on Middlefield where the great owner said i had a loose tensioner belt and a couple other parts that were causing the noise without any mention of needing a water pump. After chopping $170 off the labor bill to get the price down to the $500 quote he had given me initially, I had a a great-running engine. I also didn't need tires for at least another 6 months." -
Review from Maurice B.
San Francisco, CA
1/4/2008
We take all our cars to Vlad - 2000 Lexus, 1990 Acura Legend, 1995 Honda Accord, even my BMW for oil changes! He is extremely honest and will give you the straight scoop. Fair prices. Great work. I have had no problems in the years we have been using him.
Answers questions completely. Highly recommended! -
Review from Sid A.
Mountain View, CA
4/30/2008
The two most honest people you want - Mechanics and Dentists! Now, at least I have one..
Thanks to Yelp, I take my Honda Civic regularly to these guys and they always do an awesome job, at a very decent rate
I've gotten oil changes, timing belt change and a major service done from them - could not be happier.
What really tipped me over was this - My rear brakes were making these cranking noises, it felt like something was definitely wrong. I take it to independence acura, they spent about an hour to diagnose the issue and fix it. It was a rear drum misalignment problem. Vladimir refused to take money for it !! Who does that in this day and age!
Highly recommended Mechanics! -
Review from Jonathan L.
San Francisco, CA
10/8/2009
Went here a few months back but never got around to writing a review. I needed new brake pads and rotors resurfaced so I called around and Vladamir quoted me a competitive price and installed new rotors!!!
Should of came back here for my last service. His service is def. worth the drive from the city. -
Review from Paul R.
Mountain View, CA
11/1/2009
Wow, even after having high expectations going in, these guys impressed me. I dropped off my car in the morning for a belt replacement and I had it by noon. These guys know that their good reputation is valuable, and they work really hard to keep it. I'm probably willing to pay a little extra for great customer service, but their rates are really competitive.
Thanks yelpers for pointing me in the right direction!
