1st Rock 4X4 & Auto

Reviews

Reviews are sorted by relevance, with the most helpful and insightful feedback listed first for easy reference.

  Doug Graphic Designer
5 months ago
Great service and very reasonably priced. The work was done the next day. It would have been done the same day, but it turned out a different part was needed. The truck is now driving smoother than ever. Thank you. I'll be back.

  isabel sorg
4 years ago
I love wrenching on my 1st Gen 4Runner but when the timing chain needed redone, Karl actually treated me like a person over the phone, and his timeline and quote were the best i could find! It's driving like a whole new truck and we passed emissions. I appreciated the straight answers, and how he thoroughly worked out the job that i needed done without stacking up an expensive list of frivolous line items. Great, honest work, good communication, they really went above and beyond!

  Rami Abdullah
3 years ago
Worst shop I have ever seen in Tucson. It deserves less than 0 star. The owner Karl is very rude person with a bad behaviour with customers. He wants to get a money for nothing done, be careful. Also the place is trash. If you want to BREAK you car go there..!!Bad reviews for this shop are real

  Larry Martinez
2 years ago
Karl's a bad a** dudeMY NISSAN NOW ROLLS ON CHEVY RIMShe helped me get what i needed, i recommend you go to him if you need spacers or wheel adapters, he has fast and good quality service, he had my adapters made and sent to my house in two days !!!!!

  Rachel Eskandari
4 years ago
I have been working with Karl and his team for over a year now and I have to say it has been different than your average car repair shop. As a woman, many times I feel like I get treated differently when dealing with car repair services because I may not have as much knowledge or for just being a woman. I worry about being swindled because I may not know something. But with Karl and his team, they were always upfront and explained every process thoroughly. They didn't treat me like I didn't need an explanation because I was a woman. I appreciated that very much. I had multiple issues with my mazda and they always tried to find the best solution and most affordable solution, knowing I didn't want to spend an arm and a leg if I didn't have to. The communication was always very prompt and the repair time was quick as well. Overall I recommend their services over all the dealerships and repair shops I have ever gone to and I have dealt with many. Also it is important to support your local small businesses so I encourage you to contact 1st Rock 4x4 & Auto if you are having an issue with your car

  Riley Evan Schoneman
8 years ago
This is how an auto shop should operate! I have a '69 Scout that was having some brake issues and I brought it to 1st Rock Auto and within just a few minutes it was fixed. Karl the owner is an extremely nice man, whom was not at the shop at the time but called me to make sure that I was satisfied with the service and work they did. The mechanics are approachable and nice guys who know what they are doing. Karl also made sure to give me advice to further take care of my car which shows he cares about his customers and service. I will be returning my business to Karl and his mechanics and fully recommend anyone with car troubles to bring it here first.

  Type 1 Production
5 years ago
4x4 auto was an exceptional experience! I was taken in and treated as if I was an old family member. They made sure every aspect of my needs were taken care in a professional and timely manner! My 3rd gen Toyota 4runner needed an entirely new front end and it was taken care of for pennies on the dollar in comparison to what these big shops were asking! I will always recommend them and will be a loyal customer for as long as I'm a resident of Arizona! Thanks guys!Alexander

  Veronica Roak
2 years ago
I have had the pleasure of working with the owner and the mechanic at the shop and let me tell you how pleased I am to have found them. I came to them with my daughters car and mine with ac problems and they were able to fix them both and any issue I had had since then they had taken me in and helped me out with fair prices. They even helped give me references with our BMW and what to do as far as fixing it. He s always been able to take me in last minute as long as I communicate with him. I definitely recommend this place to anyone looking for a good mechanic that won t break your bank account.

  Roger Johnsen
3 years ago
Super happy I found this shop. Karl is so knowledgeable and I'm extremely pleased with the work he did. He was able to get my 4x4 running perfectly. I can't stress enough how knowledgeable the owner is. While others have noted his personality isn't for everyone - it's a simple trade-off. People of this caliber can be misunderstood and feel that's the case. I've been around the block enough to know this level of knowledge he brings to the table outweighs personality any day. His recommendations saved me money and were purely selfless. I've been to many shops where they only want to upsell and make as much as they can - not the case here. I won't go elsewhere and will refer all my friends and family to this shop based on my experience. A great mechanic is worth their weight in GOLD! Five star outfit without the price tag or headaches.

  SCOTT KUNZ
8 years ago
I had a 1st gen 4 runner built out of state. I put thousands of dollars into this vehicle to make it Rock Crawler ready. Unfortunately, the shop that built it left some loose ends, and the vehicle had numerous problems I had to get fixed. I was referred to 1st Rock 4x4. I called the shop and spoke to Karl. Karl had me bring the vehicle down to his shop. On my way there my speedometer stopped working because the shop that did the build, I later found out wrapped the speedometer cable around the dual transfer cases. That repair wasn't planned, however, Karl worked with me on that and fixed that while the vehicle was at his shop. Since I live in New River, Karl would have a mechanic just work on my vehicle all day long, so as much work could be done as possible, and I would drive it home at the end of the day. There was so much work to be done, I had to take the 4runner down there a couple times, but it was more than worth it! The fabrication and mechanical work that was done was outstanding! I'll be bringing it back to finish up a few more things on the vehicle. The work done was outstanding, and the fabrication work was very impressive! Karl really worked with me on the labor, and helped me out a lot! Great Shop! I'll be back! Thanks again Karl!

  Vince Radice
11 years ago
Karl has top notch mechanics and is ridiculously honest!! He has done great work for me on my Toyota 4 runner and I would certainly recommend him to anyone seeking and honest professional mechanic service. We checked around town before we gave him the job and he underbid everyone and the work was completed on time and on budget. I will use his shop again for sure.

  David Harney
9 years ago
have a 97 Nissan Quest, and wasn't looking forward to paying the price another "shop" wanted to charge, so I called Karl at 1st Rock. Not only did he quote a far better price, his straight forward attitude reminded me of my family back home in NY. He even took me back to work and picked me up when the work was complete. Price was fair, and the work was completed fast. The axle repair did not solve my issue, so I need to take it back to him for more help. Great shop. Will not bring my vehicle anywhere else for repairs.

  Sabrina Martinez
11 years ago
I am not from Tucson and was unsure where to go for auto repairs. I ended up finding out about Karl and 1st Rock. VERY good decision. They were very professional, and FAST! On top of that, the prices are unbeatable for fast, quality work. Karl answered every question I had I will definitely be going back for a few more things I need to have done. Jack worked on my car, and was very efficient and went above and beyond when fixing my rear brakes and wheel bearing. I would definitely recommend this shop! You can't beat the experience and prices!

  Jackson Reding
5 years ago
Amazing service from Karl and his crew. Had a major problem with my Jeep and the dealership said it was gonna take 4 days to complete when I was only in town for 1. Karl towed my Jeep from the side of the highway and was able to fix it SAME day no stress. Fantastic service. Highly recommend to anyone who isn t looking to wait forever at the dealership and for a great price.

  Scott Bambrough
7 years ago
Fantastic experience! Karl is very honest and straight forward, his prices and quality of work cannot be beat. The only regret I have is that I did not start using this shop sooner. I will be bringing all my work to him, I will not think twice having Karl work on my Lexus over the dealership itself.

  Mindy Brugger
8 years ago
I was fortunate to stumble across Karl and his amazing shop. From the beginning Karl was professional, called me back promptly with a quote for the work I requested and even took the time to explain what did and did not need to be done, which the other shops had not. He quickly told me repairs I were told needed to be done that were not necessarily true, and the quote was $150 less than the lowest I had received. Do not let his low prices indicate the work that was done - the staff (Andy) was courteous, professional and quick. He really is a honest guy who will take care of you, particularly women who are easy to take advantage of on car repairs. We need more businessmen like Karl in Tucson, and the world.

  Langston Guettinger
3 years ago
Karl and his team resurrected a 1987 1st gen 4runner that was given to me by a friend. My friend had driven the truck for more than 15 years before it lost power and stopped running properly. My friend's ordinary mechanic was unable to diagnose the problem so it sat in his driveway for more than a year until he turned it over to me. Karl talked through the possible problems and expenses involved with getting the truck running again and inspected it after I had it towed to his shop. He quoted me a price to rebuild the engine and replace the clutch and stuck to it when it was finally running again. The truck passed emissions immediately and Karl continued to work with me as I learned its various quirks and have continued tuning it. Would highly recommend 1st Rock for good and honest work on these old Toyotas.Service: Engine repair

  V Santiago
9 years ago
I first came to First Rock after finding their ad on Craigslist. I had just received an estimate from another chain tire company that was way more than I could afford. While I was a little worried contacting a mechanic I didn't know very well and had just found online, I was a immediately put at ease after speaking with Karl. He was very friendly and upfront. He gave me a quote that was over $400 less than the other company wanted to charge me and was willing to get my vehicle in the same day for service. I opted to come by the following morning and by early afternoon my vehicle was repaired and I could immediately feel the difference in the drive. (All 4 motor mounts on my car were broken and needed repair.)The staff was very friendly & even offered a ride home while my car was being worked on. They were professional and did a great job. Many thanks to First Rock for their help.

  LunaRita Outfitters
10 years ago
I went to First Rock for an estimate on a front end rebuild on my 4runner. Quoted me a much lower price than anyone else as well as told me that I didn't need some of the parts replaced that other shops said I needed.I had to go back with a question on noise in the front end afterward. He diagnosed and repaired (free of charge) even though it was not a problem with the repairs, it was something i did later.An honest shop/mechanic is hard to find. If you are looking for atmosphere or a nice lobby, go to a nice restaurant. If you want your car fixed at a reasonable price, go see Karl at first rockIf you have a Toy (T4R or TACO), don't go to anyone else

  Fox JFOX
4 years ago
I was in Tucson for a business trip back in february when I noticed my 1990 Jeep XJ had loose motor mounts. Took it into 1st Rock and they diagnosed the problem and got me hooked up with new pieces at a fair price. I then had another problem with my gas intake from the engine and Karl took the time out of his day to find a very rare piece I needed for my old Jeep. My jeep was fixed the very next day. This place is honest and they know what they are doing. I highly recommend Karl and his team and they will be the only mechanics I use when I am in Tucson for my yearly business trip. Thank you Karl!

  Chad S
11 years ago
I have been a parts vendor to Karl at First Rock for quite a few years and have sent him many Tucson and Phoenix customer referrals. It's amazing how many follow up thank yous I get back from those customers.Heres why.Karl is a no B.S. kind of guy and tells it like it is up front. Not to mention very fair about his pricing. Combine that with his knowledge about parts and cars (its way above and beyond almost anyone else in the business) and you have a winning combination.Seriously, spend 5 minutes talking with him about what you and your car needs and you'll understand.

  George Fisher
9 years ago
Ive known Karl for years and when he opened a shop it was only natural to bring him my business. From straight forward repairs to a rock crawler project. He even sold a couple vehicles for me as I am very busy at times.But friendship aside, I would not spend my money here if the work was sub par or overpriced.Trustworthy and competent are not words typically associated with the auto repair industry but they are the words I would use to describe 1st Rock 4x4.Give them a call and they can probably help you out.

  mark sothman
4 years ago
I own a 3rd gen 4runner and been looking for a good honest place to take it for some work to be done. Repairs were done at a Very reasonable price. Since then I ve had them do some fab work and I m always happy with the outcome. If you have a Toyota then this is the place to go.

  Deanna Keahey
4 years ago
I was referred to Karl by a friend of a friend, and I'm sure glad I was! He changed the gearing on my Toyota motorhome so I've got a lot more power getting up the hills now, and I am delighted with the change. :) I'd talked to another mechanic about the job who had to go away to research it, and then gave me a way high estimate. Karl knew right away exactly what I needed, and was able to give me an estimate (for less $) right over the phone. He is incredibly knowledgeable about Toyotas - every question I ask he has a lengthy explanation for it. I feel like I should video him so I can capture all the info he provides! He's now my go-to guy whenever I'm going through Tucson. Definitely recommended!

  Gary Nichols
10 years ago
Having moved to Tucson 3 years ago I had problems finding a repair shop I could trust and receive excellent service from. After trying 4 different places I came across 1st Rock on Craig's list and gave them a call. Since then I have had them overhaul a differential,replace steering linkage and recently a motor. Karl is direct and to the point and doesn't chit chat a lot, but if you want honest reliable service,this is the only place to go. His mechanics are fantastic and professional. I almost forgot to mention the prices,they are very reasonable and fair. I spent 30 years working in auto service departments and my expectations are high. This is the only place in Tucson that has lived up to them.

  moriah murphy
a year ago
I was telling a friend about this place and was showing him reviews. It has been a bit since I have used him but he is good at what he does . He is honest and does not bs. He is also gruff and impatient but myself would take that over being ripped off any day . Not the prettiest place or sweetest manager but honest and good and what he does . Advise don t be a sensitive Sally if you plan on going here . He will fix your car for a good price and fast .

  Arek Fressadi
10 years ago
Karl initially contacted me on 9-14-12, in response to an ad I placed on Craig's List to repair a 1994 Ford F-150 which I repaired. A few weeks later, Karl's mechanics fixed an overheating problem in another truck of mine after which I wrote a favorable review on Google +. My next few engagements were unpleasant, so I edited my review to read as follows: "Although Karl initially fixed a simple problem for free, thereafter I paid for work even though the problem was not solved. I discovered his "Car Talk" advice is usually wrong. He is difficult to get along with and considers clients "squirrels." His shop is a mess. When pressed for cash, he'll renege on a deal." Karl did not discover my edited review until 4/19/13. Upon discovery, he sent a threatening email followed by a voice message claiming that he would shoot me in the heart, and kill my sons for posting the above review. Further-- that he would be willing to do 15-25 years in jail (apparently Karl believes he would not get the death penalty for reasons of insanity). This from someone who claimed to be my friend. While Karl may work wonders for young coeds who know nothing about cars, to leave a voice message threatening murder over a bad review is criminal at worst and a cry for help at best. I'm hoping that airing this in public will help him realize the necessity of changing his approach to inter-personal relationships, especially if he intends to operate a small business.

  Guillermo Bazua
2 years ago
If you drive a 4x4, a Toyota truck, or Jeep off roader, just go here. Period. Carl seems to know every thing about my 99 toyota 4 runner, and 95 jeep wrangler. He is very straight with repairs and is incredibly fair on pricing.

  Jenny Horner
10 years ago
Beneath Karl's (owner) gruff exterior lies a straight shooter. If you're looking for a shop with polished waiting room floors and and piped in muzak then you should continue your search, but if you want quality repair work that's on time and on budget Karl is your man. Aaron (mechanic) is awesome and possesses extensive knowledge of Toyota 4x4's, it's obvious that he values quality work and takes pride in a job well done.These guys definitely live up to their name- they rock!

  Polly Connelly
11 years ago
A while back, I needed a new engine for my 2003 Saturn, and since Saturn had closed it's dealership I didn't know where to turn. I called the GM dealer and they wanted to sell me a new car. An engine would cost $2-3000. Yikes! My neighbor who has a Toyota had used First Rock and said they were good on prices and since I am on social security, I gave them a call. They said they would check out availability on a good used engine for my wagon. In a few hours they had located one in Phoenix,with low mileage and a good price. I had my car towed over the next day and within 4 days of calling First Rock, I was driving away with my "newly replaced engine".I couldn't be more happy with these guys. Price and customer service are important at my age. Thanks First Rock!