SUMMIT AUTOMOTIVE

Reviews

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

  james veryser
2 weeks ago
I ve been to summit automotive several times during the past year and have been totally satisfied with their quality of work and customer service. I have a 2013 f150 ford lariat and a 2002 VW GTI and Larry diagnosed and repaired both vehicles accurately. He noticed several items on each vehicle that needed immediate attention and corrected those as well. This shop is well deserving of the 5 star rating that they ve received!

  John
9 months ago
Wow! All I can say is this kind of friendliness and top notch service is old school and just downright hard to come by anymore!I was at my wits end working on my project car 1932 Buick it was on a trailer Ang going to a place where it wasn t going to be easy to work on anymore. Called Ruthie at closing time and she said bring it by, Larry worked on it and had it running in no time, some guys just know, and Larry is that guy.Rest assured if Larry is working on your vehicle you have the right guy. I m pretty sure he could fix anything.Many Thanks!Ruthie and Larry

  Drew Hensley
6 months ago
Definitely the place to go to!Was traveling across the country and started this morning to loud unpleasant sounds from my car. Feared the worst, but was referred to Summit. I had no appointment, but they were willing and eager to help me get on my way as soon as they could. Squeezed me in between appointments. They were so kind and I appreciate their help so much.

  Toni Bircher
11 months ago
Summit Auto provided an accurate estimate and got us in the next day. Brake repair work on our Ford F-150 was completed in one day and they were very nice and accommodating. Great Local Business!!Service: Brake service & repairService: Brake service & repair

  Serious Takes
a year ago
I have been with them several times now from oil changes to odd lighting issues to repairing rotors, etc. They are top notch and go farther than most automotive shops nationwide. I am impressed and recommend them to anyone wanting higher quality service to find the source of issues and resolution. Great job Summit Automotive! I m coming back for the next service, see you soon..Services: Vehicle Inspection, Oil change

  Kyle Graff
a year ago
They helped my Nissan vehiclewith a variety of maintenance needs. Larry was honest about the bad transmission issue such that it was best to get rid of the lemon I had. He saved me a hassle. It's not all about profit there. Love their honesty!Service: General repairs & maintenanceService: General repairs & maintenance

  Justin Park
a year ago
Exploded a CV axle while in Salida. These guys were literally the only shop in Chaffee County that would even give me an appointment. Ruthie was super-helpful communicating with me through the fix and Larry went the extra mile making the fix but also giving my truck a once-over while he had it and making sure everything was greased-up and in order. Without them I would've had to pay for a very expensive tow back home. Fair prices on top of it all!Service: Steering & suspension repair

  Brian Adams
a year ago
10 Stars. Tailgate locking mechanism gave way on me and it was looking like the only option was to tear through a new bed cover to get to the lock. Not a normal job and no other shops wanted to take it on. Larry told me to bring it on over and he'd check it out. My favorite - his answer to 'how's it going to today' was 'depends on what you brought me' meaning his day was good if he could help me out. Which he did - with a bit of trial and error was able to jimmy the cover off and fix up the locking mechanism. Would be great to have you in Chicago!

  Sarah Almero
3 years ago
Best shop I've ever been too! Wish I could bring them to MI so I could use them every time! It's been a few months since they fixed my brothers car but I just remembered how amazing Larry and his wife Ruthie were and I had to leave this review! My brother's car broke down while we were passing through town on vacation and they had us in and out within a few hours! As soon as we arrive they shared their lunch with us and Ruthie then dropped us off by the river so we could explore instead of having to wait at the shop. They truly went above and beyond and saved our vacation!Service: Engine repair

  Marguerite Hendrie
a year ago
What a gem! I know you might be thinking that 40+ 5 star reviews is suspicious, but after going to see these guys, you will understand that it is genuine. I was just traveling through town and had car trouble. Other shops in town told me they were so busy this time of year, there was no way they could get me in... Summit was busy too. They didn't have to get me in, but they did. Did they diagnose the problem quickly? Yes. Did they fix it? Yes! But the very best part was that I actually felt that they really cared that I made it home safely. Sure I paid them for the work, but the prices were reasonable especially for an expensive town like BV, but I really felt cared for which is rare these days. I didn't leave thinking, "well I wish that had happened at home so I could have my usual mechanic look at it" I left thinking, "I wish these guys were in MY town so they could BE my usual mechanic!" So much thanks!!!

  Eli West
2 years ago
I had an incredibly positive experience with the whole team at Summit Automotive. From diagnosing the issue with my vehicle to coming up with a variety of solutions I left feeling taken care of and supported every step of the way. I highly recommend going to summit automotive for your car needs.

  Blaine Warnstaff
3 years ago
I m one of those people that always says I ll write a review and don t /: . My girlfriend and I were on a 1700 mile round trip from Kansas City to Colorado when our transmission shot craps in New Mexico. We were able to make it to Buena Vista where we were recommended to Larry at Summit Automotive. Not only did he and his wife stay after hours to receive our Jeep, Larry was able to diagnose the exact problem before we left. Words cannot describe the the kindness and and eagerness to help my girlfriend and I get back on the road that we experienced. I wish we could express our thanks more so, but have to get on back to Kansas City. Thanks again guys

  Jess Bonasso
5 years ago
I ran into car trouble on a trip down from Denver to Mt. Princeton Hot Springs over the weekend & had the most wonderful experience with Summit Automotive! Although Larry couldn't fix the car that day, he was able to take a look at what was wrong at no charge whatsoever. He & his wife Ruthie were also willing to drive us into Buena Vista if we needed it & were extremely helpful in recommending options for us to get back to Denver. We finally arranged for a tow truck pick up the following Monday & Summit Automotive was fine with us leaving our car there over the weekend & handing over the keys to the tow truck company for us! Super friendly, down-to-earth & helpful all the way around considering we never even took advantage of any of their services. If you ever have car trouble in the Arkansas Valley I highly recommend this service station for their helpfulness & overall professionalism! AH-mazing! :)

  Carolyn Lobeck
4 years ago
These guys were absolute life savers! I was passing through town on a road trip and had a loud, metallic rattling in my car. Ruthie was very sweet on the phone and told me that Larry would take a look at it. (They were very busy so I was very grateful in the first place that they would take the time to check out my car). The issue ended up being with my catalytic converter. Larry said the car was fine to continue to drive for the moment and then talked to me about the warning signs that would indicate the car needed immediate attention (overheating engine, loss of power). Then Larry didn't charge me anything since it had been a quick consultation - even though he had taken time out of his busy day to help me. I was so grateful for the kind assistance and am not sure what I would have done if they had not been there to help. This is a great, honest, local, family-owned business. If I lived in the area, I would definitely go back!

  Emmy DeFazio
5 years ago
Trustworthy, friendly, and just an all around delightful experience.As a younger-looking woman, going to auto-repair shops is something I tend to absolutely dread, which is what made my visit to Summit Automotive in BV such a breath of fresh air. The owners were extremely accommodating for my last minute call and straight forward with what needed to be done. The pricing was completely reasonable and I have had no problems with my brakes since.Skip over the seedy auto-repair shops that are only looking to take advantage of you in Summit county and make a trip here. 100% recommend!!!

  Joe
5 years ago
Both the mechanic and the woman who ran the office were very accommodating, kind, and generous. I don't live in Buena Vista and was only there for the night and ended up having trouble with my car. After calling four other mechanics in the area (and visiting one) with none being able to help me, I called Summit Automotive and they told me to come in right then. The mechanic was able to fix my car on the spot sufficiently to get me home safe. He was very transparent in explaining the issue to me. When the bill was presented it was cheaper than I expected. I tend to not have much faith in the honesty of the car industry (in the areas of manufacturing, selling, and maintenance) but the people at Summit were straight shooters. They have my recommendation.

  Rebecca Ziaja
3 years ago
I was travelling solo with a 1993 Dodge Roadtrek Independent 190 camper van I had just picked up in Long Beach, CA, and was driving it home to Stevens Point, WI. 20 miles out of Salida, my engine light came on and I had to pull over. I had enough cell service to call out, but couldn't receive calls. Long story short, I went through about 4 tow drivers before one finally found me and I finally got Darryn from Bears Towing & Recovery out of Buena Vista, CO. Great guy. He hooked me up with Larry & Ruthie at Summit Automotive further down the road in Buena Vista. Prior to Darryn arriving, I had called every mechanic in Salida and they were all booked up for 2 weeks! It was a Thursday, a major winter storm was going to hit that weekend, and I had to be back to work on Monday. Larry could have had me back on the road that night, however after the long day I had, Ruthie wisely suggested I get some rest that night. She found me a motel close by, took me there and picked me up the next morning. Larry precisely pinpointed my problems, addressed everything quickly, explained everything, and made sure the vehicle was safe to keep going - checked fluids, changed oil, and recommended some things I do when I get home. He also is drop shipping me an isolator that I need at a great price. If I lived in the area, this would be my "go to" shop. I cannot thank them enough for helping me get home safely and timely.Services: Electrical repair, General repairs & maintenance, Electrical, Auto engine diagnostic, Oil change

  john g
5 years ago
We were planning a Fall camping trip in our camper. Tested the generator before leaving and it would not start. There are not any small engine repair shops in Chaffee County. Local RV dealer recommended taking the camper to Colorado Springs over two hours away. Local car parts shop recommended Larry with Summit Automotive. We stopped in that afternoon, he said to bring it by next morning and he would have it fixed in a couple of hours. We did and he did. Refreshing to deal with someone who does what he says and when he said it would be done. We will be bringing our truck and SUV business to Summit from now on.Took the Chev Duramax pickup truck in for service yesterday. Larry replaced the thermostats and changed the oil in the rear end and transfer case. All done when they said it would be done and at a fair price. The additional upside was they checked all the fluid levels and greased what needed to be greased at no additional cost. We will be back.

  Rich Hartney
6 years ago
One thing for sure, we will not be taking our vehicles anywhere else to be worked on! Summit Automotive in Buena Vista is by far the best in Town! So far, Larry has worked on 3 of our vehicles . 2007 Chevy work truck - fixed the valve spring on engine and it was barely out of commission because he fixed it right away, 66 Thunderbird - rebuilt the carburetor, and 94 Bronco that sat in the yard for 7 years not running. Larry did a full overhaul on the Bronco and replaced many parts to get her running again. I can honestly say, all are running great with no issues. The Bronco did need another freeze plug replaced (no fault of Mechanic) and we were able to bring it back & he took care of that right away. Excellent Customer Service and all work was done at a fair price with a quick accurate diagnosis! I would recommend them to Everyone! Seriously any doubts, just check out their Vett on website!! Sweet!!!

  Mary Surrena
5 years ago
Larry is hands down the most genuine, fair and honest guy. His work is impeccable and he takes the time to explain even the smallest of details. No surprises with this business. Ruthie, his wife, makes sure the billing is perfect and always with a smile! You couldn t ask for more in a business! I ll be taking my car to them for everything!

  Elizabeth O'Flynn
a year ago
This place is amazing. I am so impressed with the thorough work that was done on my vehicle. Both husband and wife, really took the time to talk with me and talk over the issues they saw. Really friendly. Really felt they were fair.Services: Transmission, Steering & suspension repair, General repairs & maintenance, Auto brake repair, Brakes, Brake service & repairServices: Transmission, Steering & suspension repair, General repairs & maintenance, Auto brake repair, Brakes, Brake service & repair

  C L
6 years ago
Hands down the best, most accommodating and caring experience I've ever had at an auto shop. We were driving back to Virginia and found our brakes worn down to nubs; on short notice the fine people at Summit literally worked overtime making sure that we could get back on the road on schedule. I know I'll stop just to say hi if I'm ever driving through again. :)

  Corrine Foreman
3 years ago
For prompt professional service I highly recommended Larry & Crew. He gets my vehicle in right away & gets me on the road! I appreciate how he takes the time to explain what the issue is and how to repair it in layman s terms. Trustworthy, reliable & super clean shop.

  R B
5 years ago
Was camping at Cottonwood lake when we realized the rear disc on our Tundra was Metal on Metal. Called them up and was luckily able to get right in on a Friday morning. Just as suspected, needed new rear disc and pads. Fortunately the parts were in town, and they were able to get me back up to the lake within a couple hours.Nice people, and while I hope to never need their services again (they are over 100 miles from my home), Summit will be my first call if i find my self back in the area with a need.

  Stephanie West
3 years ago
On vacation from Georgia and started having car trouble. We showed up and they worked us in that day even though they had a packed shop. Can t say enough nice things about these amazing people. Absolutely the nicest people! Knowledgeable and friendly. Highly recommend!!

  Paul Bassingthwaite
5 years ago
Great people, excellent work.I took my truck to some smuck over the pass and they couldn't get the 4x4 to work.I brought it to Larry and he spotted the problem, got it fixed quick and had me back in the pasture hauling hay in no time.The only downside to their business is I'll easily lose an hour chatting with Ruthy in the office.

  Aaron Gould-Kavet
a year ago
Larry is the best and has a wonderful family- and treats you as such! I've had work done on a couple vehicle with them and they are always super on point.Services: Steering & suspension repair, General repairs & maintenance, Steering & suspension replacement, Electrical, Wheel alignment, Brake service & repair, Oil changeServices: Steering & suspension repair, General repairs & maintenance, Steering & suspension replacement, Electrical, Wheel alignment, Brake service & repair, Oil change

  Jameson Hoffman
3 years ago
I ve been going to them for service for 4 years and they have never let me down. Very kind and knowledgeable and honest. I ve always felt Larry gave me a better deal than anywhere else I would ve gone. I would recommend Summit above all other shops in Buena Vista, hands down.Services: Transmission, Tires, Auto engine diagnostic, Auto engine tuning, Wheel alignment, Brakes, Oil changeServices: Transmission, Tires, Auto engine diagnostic, Auto engine tuning, Wheel alignment, Brakes, Oil change

  Peter Simmons
4 years ago
Larry is unique - an honest, incredibly competent mechanic. Had some auto trouble in BV - Larry got us back on the road quickly - at a reasonable pice. Wish we lived closer - Larry would be my go to guy.

  PJ Olson
5 years ago
Great outfit...!!! Larry is a top notch technician - really knows his way around a vehicle. Fair prices on parts and labor - plus you know the job has been done right...!!!