Secor's Automotive

Reviews

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

  Dorothy Jones
2 months ago
This review has come a little late but I ve come a several times with my Honda Fit with regular maintenance and smog check. He is very honest, polite and provided great service. I would say most places have a hard time being truthful with issues and try to oversell you on things you don t need but not this place. I always have any concern resolved and always have had great service. It s also close enough walk to a small plaza with nice bites. I would definitely recommend coming here.

  Dustin E. May
2 years ago
Joe is exceptionally knowledgeable in repairing BMW and Mercedes. Most car repair shops charge additional fees for international cars. Joe is honest and forthright, giving me the best possible price. I trust him and would travel 100 miles to visit his shop. There isn't a mechanic like him anywhere else.Services: Steering & suspension repair, General repairs & maintenance, Auto engine diagnostic, Engine repair, Smog certification, Emissions testing, Oil changeServices: Steering & suspension repair, General repairs & maintenance, Auto engine diagnostic, Engine repair, Smog certification, Emissions testing, Oil change

  Marc Alnwick
6 years ago
Went for a smog check. Took less than 30 minutes. The waiting area is very clean and nice. The customer service is friendly and knowledgeable.

  James Amberg
2 months ago
They have appointments for smog and do great work. Bagel shop within walking distance from coffee and noshing.

  Botman
a year ago
Not a great experienceLooking for a new repair shop closer to home so I figured I would give them a try with a Smog and an Oil Change. I have four cars so I wanted a place to build a relationship with. Work was fine and prices were fair, but I did not feel welcomed at the shop.I made an appointment on their site, but really you are requesting the day and time and they get back to you. Josef replied very quickly, and we worked out a time and that I would leave the car since an Oil Change takes longer.I arrived and he seemed frustrated, with me or other things I was not sure. He stated they could not do an oil change because I wanted to wait for the car. I reminded him that I agreed to leave it. He huffed and processed the paperwork.Maybe they are not for me. I just did not feel welcomed as a client. You never know when a simple Smog and Oil Change will turned into a client.12/7 And the sarcastc response from the owner simply reinforces my point. I was looking for courtesy not food.Services: Emissions testing, Oil change

  Heather Walz
9 months ago
WOMEN This is review is for all the women out there come here for honesty.This is my experience. My husband passed away four years ago and he s the one that handled most of the car stuff. And I actually let my husbands car sit pretty much for four years without tending to it it was just too painful. I finally decided I needed to get it looked at .I had brought my car all the way from Virginia so I really didn t know what the mechanic I ve done to it. So when I came home.I had to find someone new to work on my car I found Secors Automotive and they were working on my Honda fit for awhile now changing the oil and such so I decided to finally bring in my late husbands car.I jumpstarted it the day before and I thought I would be just fine and the following day my late husbands car wouldn t start.So I had to let the owner of Secors knowI would probably not make the appointment so I went and got a battery but the car was still rattling when I turned it on ..so I decided to take it straight to the mechanic at Secors and if they can get me some timethroughout the week, that would be great I had humble expectations due to the fact that I no longer have an appointment and I was coming randomly.I hoped they would take the car . Not only did they receive me without Appointment he Was so kind about it.The owner looked at it the same day. some thing I really wasn t expecting, considering I had no appointment, but he did .And when I came to pay, he said noThe owner saidI m not going to charge you the guy that put the battery on didn t put the battery on right. On top of that he checked my oil and said it was fine. some thing about oil not expiring. I tried to pay him for his time he declined again.He just said come back after you have driven it 100 milesHe told me because I changed the battery I would have to come back once I have driven it 100 miles to check it properly.The point is he could have charged me. But he didn t he is a honorable honest and kind man he didn t need to take my car but he did.She could have charged me or overcharge me like other mechanics have in the past, but he didn t he is a honest man and very kind to women a real gentleman. Ladies if you re single or alone come here he will be fair and kind and not judge you for your lack of knowledge when it comes to cars. Women approved!!!

  Hyungsuk Kim
9 months ago
BLUF: DisappointedI made an appt to get the smog check done. At arrival, all I heard from the owner was "I cannot see your car. DMV was down." Follow up question I asked about when the smog check can be completed came with an answer "I will see your car one hour later."I think the owner could have reacted better about the situation: at least notify about the delay prior to the appt time, offer to re-schedule if I cannot wait, or give an estimated completion time with an apologetic tone, rather than the tone full of frustration towards the customer. If owner seemed to care about the situation, I would have stayed for service. But his careless attitude towards the customer, I felt that he would not take much care about my car either.

  Greg Reynolds
2 years ago
I called around looking for a place to smog my car that I'm in the process of selling. Joe quoted me a clear cost on the phone. I was not sure what to pay so I called around and found costs were similar, although others started higher then offered discounts or coupons. I called Joe back and he said he would smog it if I got there in 15 minutes. They took good care of me and finished up the smog, even though they were busy. I mentioned that I was selling the car, and I told Joe that it was in great condition except for some old paint that had spilled on the leather which I didn't think would ever come out.Joe went and got some special cleaning supplies and a brand new toothbrush and clean rag and went to work detailing the leather interior for a good 20 minutes. He personally removed every trace of paint on two leather seats and a door panel, then added a conditioner. When I offered to reimburse him he laughed politely and refused to take any form of payment or allow me to buy anything to compensate for his extra time and materials. During a busy afternoon, he did me a favor knowing that I was selling a fairly new Lexus and likely not going to need auto services anytime soon. Joe's mechanics were also cheerful, enjoying their day and talked with me about my car, creating a welcoming atmosphere.You can understand why Secor's has been in business since 1979 with this quality of service and trust worthiness.Services: Auto detailing, Emissions testing

  Bill Malone
2 years ago
First and foremost the owner is honest and forthright. Can't really say that for some of the other shops in this general neighborhood. I found them very accommodating and helpful - they also went above and beyond to make each of my visits first-rate.Staff are well trained and I guess that is the difference between here and the chain/franchise quick service places - they genuinely care about maintaining your car(s) over the long run. To me it's worth it to have this kind of relationship with the place that repairs my vehicles.BillService: General repairs & maintenance

  Helena Parker
2 years ago
Fantastic service! I needed emergency service on my 1994 BMW the day I was supposed to drive 9+ hours home for Thanksgiving. Within a few hours the problem was fixed and I was on my way. They also went ahead and changed my oil without me having to mention it. Staff is so friendly and knowledgeable and took great care of me as they knew I was in a rush to get on the road. I highly recommend Secor's for fast and reliable service and will definitely be going back for any other issues in the future.Services: General repairs & maintenance, Oil change

  Asghar Ebrahim
2 years ago
I really trust Joe, He is honest and tells you the truth about your car. doesn't charge you if your car doesn't need anything to fix. I took my BMW 2005 to another shop and they changed some parts which were not related to my check engine light's on.I am happy to took my car to him and he and his employees know their job and very polite.Asghar

  Jackie C
2 years ago
Outstanding experience every time. The keyword here is trust. Honesty and integrity shine through in every visit. It makes me feel better about owning cars passed their warranty expiration, knowing that Joe and his team will care for them like they do their own cars. Really appreciate Secor s.Services: Steering & suspension repair, General repairs & maintenance, Smog certificationServices: Steering & suspension repair, General repairs & maintenance, Smog certification

  Tony Conoscenti
5 years ago
I found Joe the owner to be extremely friendly and professional. He kept us occupied while waiting on our Smog Inspections. He was very knowledgeable on numerous makes and models of both high end and low end vehicles. The service was great and my wife and I got a great deal. He even made us tea. I would definitely recommend Secor s and will be a repeat customer.

  harry paik
a year ago
Check engine came on. Paid $1500. 2 days later, came back on. Went back, Wanted another 1k to fix. I said you never fixed the problem. They told me to try putting premium or buy some additive at auto zone. They then told me to take to dealership to double check everything they did. Told him I m sad this happened, his response was I m happy! Asked why, he said more work for me implying more money for him. Left without them doing anything except giving me excuses and attitude. Anybody have any similar experiences at this place? If so please share so others can be aware and not victimized.Service: Smog certification

  Ryan Burns
3 years ago
Rarely do I leave reviews. But I can't say enough about Joe and the mechanics at Secor's Auto. I bought an Audi with close to 40k miles on it. Over the course of 3-4 years of taking it to Audi San Diego Dealership....I was averaging $4-7k a year in repairs. When I brought it to Secor's those expensive repairs suddenly stopped. The amount of money he has saved me is impossible to overstate. As a business owner it means the world to me when someone runs an honest business and does things the right way. That is who Joe is and anyone that brings their car to him will be doing themselves and their pocketbook a favor. As far as mechanics go he is the gold standard.

  Gabrielle Gotham
a year ago
Went to Secor's after Valvoline didn't install parts of my Audi Q8 correctly after an oil change. The owner found the problem immediately and fixed it within two hours. There were gaskets installed upside down, air filter housing and air filter not installed correctly and engine cover not bolted down. After doing my best "air intake problem" interpretation sound, he actually knew exactly what I was talking about. I've learned my lesson about Valvoline...even just an oil change. Will only go to Secor's now. Don't get me started about Audi of San Diego.......Service: General repairs & maintenance

  Stephanie Do
5 years ago
The service was great! My husband and I just moved to the area and needed our smog check, they were able to fit us both in on the same day, it was easy to make online appointments. We had great conversations with Joe while we waited. He even talked my husband out of wanting some expensive, not practical cars (extra bonus for me!!)

  Marjie Du Berchin
a year ago
Joe pays attention. I think you get good service trustworthy service for a moderate price he s worked on my 2012, Mercedes E350 and I am satisfied with his work.

  Peter Maretz
2 years ago
I brought my BMW Active 3 Hybrid to Joe at Secor s Automotive for a smog check. It failed the first time around but Joe gave me some simple tips and was super-patient, even staying late, and my car passed! Don t take your car anywhere else!!

  Maryam Ahmadi
6 years ago
A month ago, I was moving from SanDiego to Davis to go to university. My car was cheap and old and I was told by others to get rid of it before it didn't work anymore. Then I asked Joe for a second opinion. He said I wasn't going to sell the car for much so that little money wasn't worth being left without a car in the new town. He suggested that I should keep an eye on the oil and just add some whenever needed. They even checked the car before my trip to make sure it was reliable, and they added some oil.Fast forward, I drove for 9 hours to Davis safely with no issues, and now I'm very glad I have a car to drive around.Joe is really good at his job, and I'm very thankful for his opinion!

  Sacha
3 years ago
Have worked with Joe on numerous occasions for my vehicles- I can tell you he is fair, honest and straight-forward. There's a reason you see so many repeat customers there all the time. Very pleasant man and demeanor.Go see Joe if you have any car issues or questions; you won't be disappointed.

  Jana Shoucair
5 years ago
I needed a smog check and servicing and this place was top of the line in cleanliness, speed of work and general friendly attitude. The owner Joe was very understanding of my time limit so he immediatley went to work on my car and also made me feel at home in the office while I was waiting. Highly recommend this place for any service needs you have.

  Mark Marek
4 years ago
Joe and his crew run THE BEST BMW shop in San Diego, and SoCal! Luckily I live 1.8 miles away. I have seen customers come from L.A. to get their car serviced here. Have you ever had a repair shop owner send someone to rescue your wife and daughter when they have run out of gas? I have. Joe did. ... Who does this these days?... no one...This is as old school service as it gets. Look no further than Secors for honest, trustworthy, straight talk, competent service for BMW, foreign and American automobiles.

  MJAC
5 years ago
Secor's was recommended by British AutoWorks owner Peter, and we're glad he did. We took our 2011 Lexus CT and our 2008 Land Rover LR2 in for smog checks. Without a doubt, this is one high class professional shop, and the owner Joseph (Joe) conduct business in such a way as to make you feel like you're talking to a family member. Though a bit small, the waiting room has the feel of a friendly gathering place. While waiting for our two vehicles, I met a half-dozen people, (other customers), and everyone conversed like old friends, which is an amazing feat when you think about it. As far as the ease of doing business, Joe handled the paperwork flawlessly and the price was very reasonabl. I even got a pic standing next to a Dodge Viper for my grandson. I highly recommend Secors Auto, 5-STARS+. You'll get super service and then some. Thanks, Joe. We'll be back. Michael C. & Gail L.

  Alan Ramos
8 years ago
Brought in my 2006 Honda civic for a check up. The workers where very good they fixed my car up in no time. David was very professional he fixed my vehicle up right away. The best auto car place i have been to they gave me a very good price. Secor's Automotive is a highly recommended to anyone who feels like other mechanics don't do justice.

  Dan Defenbaugh
8 years ago
I've been taking my cars to Joe a Secor's for years. He's honest and fair. This time I needed a smog check on my 1997 Mazda Miata but I had an engine light on recently. He saved me some money by explaining how the sensors work and not doing the test, which would have failed. After I had the issue fixed I returned and he completed the smog check quickly. I'm happy to have my car up and running and will be back for future smog checks.

  Zelch Zsolt
8 years ago
Joe has been my family\'s mechanic for over seven years! We have brought him our Hondas, Toyotas, Mazda, BMW, Lexus and recent Nissan. He is honest, clean shaven, not smelly, and his office is always sparkling clean!His mechanic David is awesome too! Always answers questions if you have them. We have bought over three good reliable used cars from Joes personal car collection and they are still in great running condition. I will take my car to Joe over CarMax any day! All of our cars pass smog check easy and we consider Joe family.Great work Joe!

  YouThere
2 years ago
Incredible service. Owner offered his car to drive when repairing mine would take a few hours. See cars is always honest and seeking the best solution (even considering warranty of parts) to any automobile problems.

  Hesam Esmaili
2 years ago
The person who answered the phone in the morning should work on having better phone skills or pay someone else to handle the calls. He answered my question as though he was bothered that I was asking anything at all. I was quoted $168 for a diagnostic and when I asked if they apply that to the repairs he scoffed and says "No we don't work for free." I asked if he did Service A & B on my Mercedes and he says "you don't need to name all the services, I do them all". Really Dude? That's how you talk to your potential customers? I needed to bring my car in for 3 separate issues so I called is competitor who is less than a 100 feet from his shop and they quoted me 30 min free diagnostic and $100 if it goes longer than that. Why would I take my car to Secor's? This repair shop just lost about $1000 just because he doesn't know how to talk to customers.

  Justin Stricula
10 years ago
First time taking my Subi outside the dealer. Went in with an intermittent brake issue and oil change. While checking in, I described the brake issue. Joe (assuming who is the owner) took a keen interest in the issue, and proceeded to describe the mechanical setup and potential cause. A couple hours later I received a call describing a situation much worse than I anticipated...with 70k miles enjoyed, the brake pad replacement wasn't a surprise. Then he dug deeper to describe another issue related to the suspension. When I drove home on San Diegito, I enjoyed a ride I had never experienced, and super smooth braking. My baby handled just the way I remembered she handled when I test drove her. Class act the entire way, and a smile on my face as I enjoyed a new car driving experience. Secor's Automotive = WIN!