Brown's Performance

Reviews

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

  Chris Hernandez
4 months ago
I reached out to Browns Performance inquiring about a few specific aftermarket performance parts and also a tune for my 2021 STI. Darnell immediately earned my business by being able to provide me everything I needed which included a base map tune to allow me to drive to his shop from Savannah GA, all exactly within my budget. Darnell and his team of Subaru specialist all went above and beyond to help me achieve my goal every phone call (many) and question (also many) were all answered with the same promptness, and professionalism that anyone could ever expect. All this said Brown's Performance has earned a customer and supporter for sure.

  Charla Markesteyn
a month ago
In 2016, I was driving a Subaru STi that kept overheating because I couldn t afford to maintain it properly. I called the Subaru Specialist and Darnell offered to tow the car in for me, which I thought was suspiciously nice. He came to pick up the car and from the moment I met him, I knew he was the only mechanic for me. Darnell helped out with a used part that time and since then I ve been a customer, a friend, and even a part-time employee for a bit during the pandemic. Darnell Brown is definitely not everyone s cup of tea, but he is savant-level good at all things Subaru. I saw multiple customers come in with issues that other shops, including the dealership, either caused or couldn t figure out and Darnell was able to diagnose and solve them. Since establishing Brown s Performance, Darnell s business has grown to include an all-wheel drive dyno and an engine build facility, which recently culminated in his setting the record for world s fastest Forester in his Brown s Performance-built, 1,000 hp Subaru Forester. All this while continuing to operate one of the best and most trusted Subie repair shops in Florida. Full disclosure I am very much biased, but in my experience Darnell Brown is the best in the business. If you have a Subaru, bring it to Brown s Performance!

  Jessica Whelpley
3 months ago
I found this place after I became dissatisfied with the local Subaru dealership. They are amazing and I wish I found them sooner! Fair, knowledgeable and quick service. They replaced the clutch on my Subaru forester and it feels AMAZING. I highly recommend Brown s Performance!

  Fernando De jesus
a month ago
Not sure what to think of this person and his business. Im not the person to talk bad about others and their business but i left his shop feeling very uncomfortable. It seems he did not wanted to work on my subaru and just charged me to run his errands. All i heard was excuses and irrelevant stuff as to what i truly took the car in for. At this point i still dont trust mechanics. You are what you show, and it just showed that you only care about the money and not peoples safety and well being. Good luck to you and your business.

  MR VEGA
4 years ago
Darnell and his crew are Subaru experts! Not only that, they really try to help when you car is not working. I also bought a used Subi and I love it. I bring it here for service and it runs like a charm. Last but not least, they use hi quality products not cheap stuff that can ruin your car. I highly recommend this place.

  Samuel Ko
2 months ago
Excellent service. They definitely know their stuff and worked well with me in terms of timing. I have a very busy work schedule, and they worked around me and helped get my car fixed asap!

  Marcia Wolf
2 weeks ago
Performance's timeline.Jun 19, 2019, 10:22 AMI bought my first Subaru in 2003 and met Darnell when he was a technician at the Subaru dealership. When he ventured out on his own I followed him to his new location and he worked on two of my Subaru's as we became friends and I had complete trust in him. But to make a long story short, the last visit my son brought in his car as oil had blown everywhere and it turned out to be a head gasket. He charged us $1700, WOW expensive! not even 6 months later one of the gaskets blew again and he lives not in this area, so he had to go to a franchised local auto mechanic. We have pictures and written notification of what happened and Darnell would not even talk about offering to have it towed in. Nor guarantee that if it were to be found out that it had to be something he replaced 6 months ago. It turns out one of the belts that usually should be taken off with a machine was able to be taken off by hand @ Tuffy's in Jax. Tuffy 's charged much less then what D & L charged.

  Jennifer Bridge
8 months ago
Darnell and team went above and beyond to get my Forester in great shape in time for a cross county trip. Super nice, incredibly knowledgeable, and very efficient. Wouldn t go anywhere else with a Subaru.

  LBaker1061
2 months ago
I have always had good reliable service for my Subaru Outback. Very knowledgeable. But now I I have a Honda CRV.

  Michael Braddock
10 months ago
Extremely knowledgeable, helpful, and respectful. By specializing only in Subarus, Darnell and his team of caring staff and talented technicians always complete their diagnosis and service at lightning speed, using high quality parts, and at a fraction of the cost of the local stealer ... I mean, dealership.In an age where far too many companies use the past pandemic as an excuse to offer subpar service and value, Brown's Performance stands out like a lighthouse on a beach. Thank you, Darnell, for making reviews like this one so easy to write!

  Steve G
8 months ago
Super knowledgeable and friendly staff. If you own a Subaru and are in the area I highly recommend using their services. They were able to diagnose our problem right away and we're even able to diagnose older problems we had previously just lived with.Services: Auto body & trim repair, Air & cabin filter replacement, General repairs & maintenance, Auto A/C recharge, Auto engine tuning, Tire rotations, Engine repair, Vehicle Inspection, Auto maintenance, Oil changeServices: Auto body & trim repair, Air & cabin filter replacement, General repairs & maintenance, Auto A/C recharge, Auto engine tuning, Tire rotations, Engine repair, Vehicle Inspection, Auto maintenance, Oil change

  Lauren Agliano
a year ago
I've been meaning to review for a while now-- When I bought my first Subaru (used 2010 Forester) I wanted to give it the best care possible by taking it to a shop that specializes in Subies. Brown's Performance gave my car a thorough inspection and a quote on all of the things it would need done from most urgent to least. Over the years we have slowly checked off the repairs needed and my Subaru has never once had an issue since the day I got it, I believe this is all due to the impeccable work that Brown's Performance has done. Excellent communication, excellent work, and with a crew of mechanics that are passionate about what they do. I wouldn't take my car anywhere else.

  Stephanie Mariee
5 years ago
Highly recommend all Subaru owners to come to this shop rather than the Dealership. The overall cost is usually less expensive than the Dealership and you can also have the comfort of knowing your car is getting fixed correctly. The staff is very friendly and highly qualified!

  Jake Wolf
a year ago
Brown's Performance replaced the clutch, the wheel bearings, and brakes on my 2017 Subaru Forester. They took me in same day when my clutch went out and were able to repair my vehicle very rapidly. They were thorough, empathetic, and reasonably priced. I was impressed at how quickly they were able to fit me in and take care of my vehicle. Not only that, but they did a test drive with me after to make sure it was repaired to my level of satisfaction. EXCELLENT customer service and individualized care.Services: Transmission repair, Brakes

  Judson Graham
3 years ago
Brought my 2011 forester xt to get a downpipe and Accessport installed, as well as a cam position sensor replaced. Top notch customer service, knowledge, and work all done in a timely fashion. Cannot recommend enough if you need anything from an oil change to power mods done on your Subaru!

  Ian Daulton
a year ago
Darnell sold me a 2002 Subaru Forester a couple days ago. He spent so much time explaining all the work that was put into the vehicle through showing me the service history. He also advised me on additional work and provided a discounted price through reasonable negotiations. He then reimbursed money back that I overpaid, no questions asked when He found out that I was exempt from fees as an active duty service member on orders.I highly recommend Browns Performance to anyone looking for a stand up honest Subaru mechanic in Gainesville, FL.Services: Auto engine diagnostic, Engine repair, Vehicle Inspection, Auto maintenance

  Taylor Griffin
a year ago
I ve been going to Brown s Performance for both of my Subaru s for over 4 years now. Darnell is honest, efficient, and always fixes any issue I have. I would highly recommend for any of your Subaru needs!

  Calvin Di Nicolo
2 years ago
I bought a Subaru Forester from Darnell (the owner), and had a very good experience up front, with no surprises and no shenanigans. Over the full year that I owned it, the car ran perfectly, and everything was exactly as advertised. The AC had started losing some juice, but that's OK. It was a 15 year old car, so that comes with the territory. It still worked, it just wasn't blowing as cold as I would have liked.Unfortunately, the Forester was not the right vehicle for me, so I decided to put it up for sale after only a year behind the wheel. I needed a pickup truck for work.I detailed the heck out of it, took some nice pics, and was ready to post it on Craigslist - I decided to call Darnell first, thinking he might know someone in the market, and take a finder's fee. He picked up the phone, we talked, and he drove straight to my workshop. He bought it back for $4,000 - I had paid him $5,000 for the car a full year earlier. This is despite the fact that the AC needed work, the tires were worn, etc.I can think of nothing that better illustrates a mechanic's / car dealer's willingness to stand behind their work. 5-Stars all around - This guy is a gem.

  Alexander Jarboe
a year ago
Been meaning to write this review for months. Hands down one of the best car shops in the country. You don't get the "good ol'" care that you used to anywhere, but Darnell hits it outta the park. He cares, actually works in your best interest (not his), and is exceptional at diagnostics and repair. Don't go anywhere else these days and grateful Brown's is so close. Wish I could take all my cars, electronics, house repairs here.

  Brandon Witmer
3 years ago
If you don't want to be treated like just another number, this is the shop for you. From my very first experience with this shop, they have made me feel like part of their community. Myself and my car were given good personalized attention that never left me feeling like I was somehow let down. They have exceeded my exceptions in every way. I had a vision for my Subaru and they helped make a plan for it that took into account years of experience with proven methods to help me reach my goals. As my car is a work in progress, I continue to see them for adjustments, regular maintenance, upgrades and advice. I 100% recommend this shop weather you are just getting an oil change or looking to add some power to your ride.

  Firstgen Camaro
11 months ago
My daughter's subie broke down just days before we were to drive it back to Texas. Needless to say this was a very nerve wracking situation. Darnell was very helpful and went out of his way to get it fixed quickly for us so we could be back on the road in time! We made it back to Texas without any further issues!Service: TransmissionService: Transmission

  Jacob Campbell
4 years ago
Darnell and Chris at D&L along with all of the team members are always kind and helpful. They help their customers in a pinch and always make sure the job is done correctly. Quality work and quality service is unbeatable. Anyone with a Subaru should absolutely bring their car here; you will not be disappointed by their expertise.

  Daniel Blocker
2 years ago
I've never trusted a mechanic's work more than I trust Darnell's! He is honest and fair. The rates aren't the cheapest, but you get what you pay for. And he doesn't try to sell you parts and services that you don't need. Highly recommend for all your Subaru needs!

  James Law
2 years ago
Darnell is a sociable and pleasant man, I would recommend this experience to anyone.I came to him to purchase a bugeye wrx and want to clarify that this isn't a used car dealership (although he has many cars). It is a performance shop, so the purchase was very low pressure. He was extremely kind and up front about the cars history and quality. His price was fair and I left feeling very good about the decision. I will be back for tuning!

  B.J. Fregly
6 years ago
Brought my 2008 Outback into D&L today to have the timing belt replaced (something you want a shop that specializes in Subarus to do). Darnell did a super job, explained everything he was doing to the car, pointed out other issues and how much time until I would likely need to address them (if ever), and test drove the car with me at the end to make sure everything was working properly. D&L is a totally honest repair shop that will not pressure you into getting things fixed that you don t need to have fixed. They also look for ways of saving customers money, such as using EOM parts/fluids purchased from the actual manufacturer rather than Subaru. I was extremely happy with the service and plan to bring my 2009 Legacy there in a few months to get its timing belt replaced as well.

  Crazy Diamond
8 years ago
Darnell at D&L Performance offers the most personalized customer service for Subaru owners. He has the experience and knowledge from working as a mechanic for Subaru that is on par with what a dealership would offer, but without the high overhead. I wish I would have found out about him sooner.

  Weimin Yue
5 years ago
There is a reason why this place has a 5.0 out of 5.0 rating. If you have a Subaru that needs extra care, D & L is the place. The knowledge, expertise, and the passion this group have are beyond my expectation.Here is the long story, I chose D&L to fix an engine non-starting problem for my 2006 Subaru. Before this visit, all my fixes and routine maintenance were performed at the dealership because I always wanted to provide the best care to her. However, there is always that feeling and experience that dealership simply tried to fix the issue by replacing the parts, rather than tried to really understand what went wrong. Yes, problem can be fixed at the dealership, however, it comes with extra higher cost from the customer, still without knowing what exactly went wrong. This time, I can not afford to have the engine replaced to fix the non-starting problem. I chose D & L based on the previous reviews posted here. It turned out that it was a very good decision made. D & L is different from the dealership because they truly care what customer wants. In addition, D & L want to understand what was really going on with the vehicle and search the optimal solution to solve the problem. Even better, D & L have the expertise to both diagnose and solve the issue. The vehicle was at the shop for almost a month. All kinds of actions were taken to diagnose the root cause and fix the problem. I have the full confidence when I hand my Subaru to D & L for services and repairs because I know they will take a very good care of her with customer's interests in mind. Where else you are looking for if you can have D & L to take care you Subaru?Highly recommend this place for all service and repair needs for your Subaru. Thank you Chris! Thank you D&L!

  Maurice Gordon
8 years ago
Darnell and his team at D&L Performance provided me with dealership-level technical expertise but the customer service and pricing of an independent shop. The first time I brought my car in, Darnell took the time to do a multipoint inspection of the car WITH ME. He has a deep passion and knowledge of Subarus.I felt that I was treated with respect and integrity, as if the mechanic was advising a close friend. D&L Performance is the only place I ll take my Subaru, and I also appreciate that they buy and sell vehicles.

  Yuva Chang
2 years ago
If you own a Subaru and you're not bringing your car here for service/mods, I don't know what's wrong with you. If you ended up taking your car somewhere else even after coming here, you probably need to re-evaluate your decisions on a more personal level.Darnell is the friendliest service professional, will treat you like family, and has a passion for Subaru that comprises and is reflected in his life work. He truly knows what he's doing with an enthusiasm unmatched at other shops, and he charges a fair transparent rate for his work. I don't know what else you need from a car specialist.Like someone else said, there's no sneaky prices, no "extra work" or "hidden costs." You get what you need, and you get it done right.They do everything, from maintenance to modes and tunes (they have a dyno now).I just wish every place I went to was like this.

  Nick DeRobertis
5 years ago
There is no better place in North Florida to take your Subaru, whether you want an oil change, an engine swap, or anything in-between.I've been working on cars for 10 years and I usually would do most work on my vehicles myself, but after finding these guys I just take my Subarus here for everything.You can't beat the prices they offer for the quality of work. You'll save at least 20-30% vs the dealership and I trust Darnell over a random dealership technician.They also buy up Subarus, fix and sell them at way lower prices than you'll find at any dealer. No official warranty, but I've bought two cars from them and they've been great. And just knowing Darnell has been over it is the next best thing to a warranty.Darnell is an absolute expert on anything Subaru. He knows exactly which parts break, and can diagnose most problems almost instantly. I always love picking his brain when I'm around.Chris provides amazing customer service as well. They built and installed a high performance motor in my WRX, and Chris kept me updated and was sending me tons of pictures throughout the whole process. Both he and Darnell gave me great recommendations for the build. They know which parts work well together and the best ways to hit performance goals.Oh and they also sell parts (high performance and factory) and racing fuel. They're really a one stop shop for anything Subaru.This shop is honestly one of the things I'll miss most about Gainesville when I leave. At that point I'll probably be working on my Subarus again. I know I'll be back in town if I want another engine swap.