Charlie's Hillside Auto Repair

Reviews

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

  Sarah Cunningham
4 months ago
So disappointed writing this review as I really truly thought I could trust this place. Here it goes. Last year, I was searching around for a mechanic and I came across this place and decided to give them a shot. I took my car down there to fix the AC and they claimed that my battery among many other things needed to be replaced. Fast forward to today, my car was barely starting regardless of my husband jump starting it several times which we thought was strange considering we had just spent the money a year prior on a battery replacement and there was no way that a brand new one would go that bad after only a year. We later went down to Costco and as it turned out, the one that this place sold me and quoted me was for a 2018 one! It all made sense after that as to why it failed so easily. This place clearly sells used parts and tries to pass them off as new. Will never be returning here again as I have no clue what else I paid money for that was not what it should have been.

  Brett Danna
4 months ago
Honest, kind and awesome. They also were able to get a job done that no one else could. Amazing service too. I am happy to write this review and they will have my business for a long time.

  Ruben Magana
7 months ago
Robert repaired my water pump on my Audi 2014 which I was pleased, they also did work on my wifes MBZ which was good but..... Somehow the brakepads cover were lost or fell, we drove ordered it with the mechanic, he was supposed to call us when it was received, he never called us. We went back to try to figure out why we did not received a call and said he had called us which was not true. Not going back there again.....

  Kevin Nakano
8 months ago
We had a check engine light show up on our 2013 VW GTI and I brought it to Hillside to help figure out the issue. It was determined that the sensor in the radiator was the cause, so we replaced it. After 800 miles the light came on again, so it was more than just the original issue contributing to the light coming on. Robert did some homework and found out that another contributor can be related to the water pump. After spending a lot of time working the issue, he was able to figure it out and we haven't had a probelm since then. I appreciate the perseverance in fixing the issue. I have no hesitation bringing my other cars to them as well. Great job!Service: Auto engine diagnostic

  Taehyun Kim
a year ago
Let me share my experience with this shop. A lot of good reviews gave me a confidence and also I love to support local businesses. My dodge had an coolant leak and went this shop to fix it. Long story short, their diagnosis was wrong. They replaced the water pump but after pickup, the coolant still leaked from somewhere else. I ended up with self diagnosis and found a noticeable crack in the radiator. When I picked up, I asked if it was really water pump because I already told them the water pump was replaced an year ago. They were pretty much sure that it was water pump. I even shared a photo taken which shows where the splashed coolant are in the engine room(near radiator). They charged 4 hrs labor for water pump replacement plus diagnosis charges separately. I won't judge if this is fair price, you can judge. They(or their automatic system) sent me a text asking everything is good. I replied and messaged it has still leak, but they never answered. I just want to share my experiences. Rating 4.8...? Hmm...

  Jane Noll
3 years ago
For many years, I have known this place to be highly rated. Yesterday, I had Hillside put on four new tires on my Mercedes. I was given excellent service and Sam was even willing to call my son-in-law (who owns a not-so-near repair shop) and discuss thedetails with him.On two occasions in the past, I have stopped by Hillside and requested advice or minor service no charge. These guys really want to please.I was in a bit of a hurry yesterday, so Sam gave me a rain-check card for the customary car wash. By the way, Sam loved the Meyer s bakery cookies I took him last week. This is a good, competent, friendly, neighborhood place to take your car.Services: Tires, Wheel alignment

  Willow A
2 years ago
Excellent experience. Easy drop off. They text me when they started diagnostics. Sent recommendations via text with pics of the area that needed repair. Because of their text notification system I was able to take a moment and really see what I needed now and what could wait. Everyone was kind and professional. They checked in on my car 2 days later " Cynthia, this is Carlos, from Hillside Auto Repair. I wanted to make sure our work on your Mini went well. Everything Great?" Glad a found a place to take my Mini!! My Mini is running great!! Thank you Carlos

  Lisa V
4 years ago
After calling three other repair shops in the L.A. area about my broken air conditioning on my Toyota Prius, Hillside was the only one that said they were able to help me because of the year my car was manufactured. No other shops specialized in hybrid cars. They were very courteous over the phone, I never felt rushed or pressured and it felt more like talking to an old friend who genuinely cared about helping me. I was able to schedule an appointment the very next day. When I arrived I was met with outstanding customer service. Sam was my guy and he took care of me like - he'd known me since I was a kid. They were able to diagnose my car for the ac, gave me a free multi-point inspection and gave me a thorough breakdown on all the costs. I even got a free car wash. I couldn't have asked for more. They were very knowledgeable in hybrid cars and I highly recommend anyone to take their vehicles there if they want it in trusted hands.This is a long overdue review for a very well deserved repair shop and I apologize it took me so long to write this. Big thank-you to Sam and the entire staff there. You all were amazing!

  Danielle Rebuck
2 years ago
Sam was so thoughtful and worked with me until we were both comfortable and really made a huge difference driving my Ford escape hybrid now. He and his team were so helpful, kind, patient and considers every customer with time and patience until as a customer felt cared for. He also refered me out to a body shop that did very reasonable but good quality replacements so with the mechanics on Sam's (Hillside Auto) team and the body work my car was completed within 3 days, not including the weekend because they are closed , I highly recommend this place, you will not be disappointed but relieved and feel respected.Thanks Hillside Auto for everythingSincerely,Danielle Rebuck

  Chris Fukuma
3 years ago
Got my brakes and oil change done here. Sam was very friendly in explaining what needed to be done. Email was sent with a report. Price was good. No unnecessary upselling like other places do and very honest good work. Drop off and pickup was kindly provided too along with a complimentary car wash. Best service I had a in a long time. Highly recommend!Services: Brakes, Oil change

  Brielle Woodall
3 years ago
We just moved to California from Florida and Hillside was great! Our Prius was having trouble starting so they were able to replace the 12V battery the next day, and a few days later I brought in my Rav for a service. They were great with both vehicles, professional, timely, and went above and beyond to provide exceptional service, including getting me a ride home from the shop. I would highly recommend using them.Services: Air & cabin filter replacement, General repairs & maintenance, Brakes, Battery

  jeff dawson
4 years ago
I have had good experiences when dealing with Hillside Auto Repair. Each time I have taken my vehicles there the folks there have been honest with their assessment and recommendations. They make you feel comfortable and take the time to explain things to you. One of my vehicles had to be towed to their location and they contacted me the following day with what happen and what need to be done. The prices are reasonable as well. They make you feel like part of an extended family member. All I can say is give them a chance and you can decide for yourself.

  Emma Irene Olson
6 months ago
So helpful, so friendly. Charlie's Hillside has become my go-to after years of going to a dealership with a used car.

  Cyndy L
2 years ago
I went to Hillside for the first time for my 2014 BMW service appointment. My warranty expired so I decided to try this convenient repair shop in my neighborhood. Though the dealer recommended changing the brake fluid and air filter Sam said I wouldn't need to for another 5,000 miles. Instead I got an oil change only which was less expensive. The coupon I received in the mail made it even less. They didn't try to price gouge me. Their honesty paid off because I'll start coming here in the future.Service: Oil change

  Dennis Hartley - Real Estate Agent
a year ago
Was able to bring my car in without an appt and got immediate service. My regular shop told me it would be 3 weeks to get an appt what!!??Charlie s diagnosed the problem and had it ready next day, they even washed it! They have a texting system that keeps you informed and everyone was very helpful and courteous . I ll definitely be back.Service: Auto brake repair

  Dixie Yeck
3 years ago
Sam walked my daughter and I through everything that was needed for the car we were taking on a trip out of town. He checked everything and made sure car was safe for us this gave me much needed peace of mind, as he found cracks in the drive belt that could have caused us to be stranded if it failed. He is competitively priced and genuinely cares about his customers. I would definitely return. Thank you Sam!

  Susan O'Connell
5 years ago
My husband and I are both pleased with the service we received from Hillside Auto Repair. Sam was very helpful and fit us both in within a few days. Our cars run great now. We received pictures and details of our cars condition before authorizing repairs. Very transparent. Hillside is less expensive than going through a dealership for repairs. We are happy customers! Susan O Connell.

  Colleen Roth
5 years ago
I cannot say enough. Sam was so helpful. We were in an urgent last minute situation. We were in San Pedro to leave on a cruise the next morning About 1:30 pm on a Friday afternoon the back window mechanism broke and my window slide all the way down. I called and spoke with Sam. He had me come right over. Got the part and fixed it that afternoon. Above and beyond though so we didn t have to sit around for 4 hours he took care of the Uber to take us back to our hotel and then bring us back when the car was done. We we so grateful for their quick service and understanding. If you ever need auto repairs especially if you are in from out of town please go there. They will take care very good care of you. Very honest and up front. Thank you Sam and Hillside auto! We were able to leave on our cruise the next day and not have to be worried all week! Colleen Roth from Phoenix AZ

  Julia Forester
3 years ago
Hillside Automotive is awesome. Sam and all the crew are so friendly and professional. I got a great price on tires for my truck and they helped me out many times for next to nothing. Great local, trustworthy place to get your car fixed.Service: General repairs & maintenanceService: General repairs & maintenance

  Maria Zarro Anaya
4 years ago
Always friendly. Always knowledgeable. Always clean environment.Been a loyal client since before Hillside acquired Plaza and Hillside has held to the high standards to which I have been accustomed. Thank you for always taking my auto needs quickly and seriously. Love these guys!

  Jessica G
5 years ago
Sam was incredibly hospitable the moment I stepped into Hillside Auto Shop. He offered me coffee and snacks and took the time to thoroughly explain the process of inspecting my vehicle. I got messages every step of the way explaining what was found on my vehicle with pictures and videos included . It was very obvious they cared about my experience and were never pushy about what they thought needed to be done. All in all it was a very pleasant experience and I can't recommend this repair shop enough!

  Jessica Forsythe
3 years ago
If you re looking for a trustworthy shop with extremely kind, knowledgeable mechanics, this is your place! Never have I felt in such good hands or at such ease when taking my car anywhere. I wouldn t trust taking it anywhere else. Sam is the absolute BEST!!Forever grateful that I found Hillside!

  Jay Frank
2 years ago
I liked their professional approach from my first call, through the repair till I picked up my vehicle. They send out a detailed report via email with a description of what they initially were tasked to do based on my instructions, a list of things they checked and a recommendation of other things that may need attention. I like the frequent communication that put me at ease.Service: Auto engine diagnostic

  Ms. S
2 years ago
I am BEYOND HAPPY I found this place. Finding a trustworthy mechanic can be difficult, BUT, these people are professional, honest, and genuinely care about the well being of your vehicle without forcing anything extra upon you. I will DEFINITELY take my car back to Hillside Auto Repair in the future. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.Services: General repairs & maintenance, Auto engine diagnostic, BrakesServices: General repairs & maintenance, Auto engine diagnostic, Brakes

  Maria Teresa Duong
4 years ago
I went to get my two front tires replaced. Sam was very accommodating and even offered to wash my car. He informed me that he can send an Uber in case I needed a ride to pick up my car. Great customer service all the way around!

  Alexis McPhee
4 years ago
I have been going to Hillside Auto for many years now and let me just say they are the best!Recently, I have been working with Sam on my vehicle. He is amazing, always so helpful and takes the time to go over my vehicle's inspection with me.I have also worked with Charlie on getting things done or changed out on my car in the past. Another amazing person that will break down and go over the details.Lastly, I want to give a shout out to the mechanics in the shop for your amazing work!Thank you Hillside Auto

  Jennifer Druten
3 years ago
I can't begin to express the peace of mind I have with this place! The personal care they take not only with your vehicle bit also with their customers is something I've NEVER experienced with any auto repair let alone most businesses. Everyone i engaged with were so kind, attentive and knowledgeable. I can say they are a TRUSTWORTHY business and also as people.Services: General repairs & maintenance, Oil change

  Terrell Woods
3 years ago
I have driven by Hillside Auto Repair for years. Not until I had an emergency with a Hybrid car did I finally go their shop, and that was on the recommendation of a current client. From the moment I drove up and explained my situation to the moment I drove off as a satisfied new customer these guys were the best. Everything was explained thoroughly and it was nice to have mechanics who wanted me to understand what my options were. Carlos is the man to see!. I would without reservation recommend Hillside Auto Repair for any auto service needs.

  Juneffer Gambin
4 years ago
This was by far the best service we have gotten from an auto shop! From the first phone call to ask for pricing to the last pick up of our car, I got A+ service! It was just for a regular oil check yet I came out of this place with so much more! They diagnosed the check engine light of my car, Sammy on front desk was amazing. Offered me cookies and coffee and ride to where I needed to be, texted and called to let me know about my car, and after hours pick up was a breeze at the gas station they owned across the street! We are definitely recommending to all our friends and neighbors! And coming back for all our future car needs!Oooh and I left with a dirty car ( we just got back from snow trip in mountains) and they washed/ cleaned my car including tires! Amazing!!!

  Toshi Sasue
3 years ago
My 2005 Toyota Prius needed to change the main cell battery .so I was looking for Hybrid specialist with excellent reviews. then I found this guys . I was surprised while they re swapping old battery to rebuild hybrid battery they let me use the rent a car for one week free plus gave me $100 discount!!There services were 5 stars !! best Hybrid shop in town !!! I m highly recommend to all my friends and anybody . I will trust this guys as long as I live in Torrance city .Service: Electrical