Doug's Automotive Repair Service

Reviews

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

  Derek
3 weeks ago
They quoted me $999 to replace my radiator. The radiator they were going to install was an aftermarket one that sells for $100. The quote did not even include the upper and lower hoses nor the thermostat, just the radiator and coolant. I ended up ordering the original radiator for $250 and replacing it as well as the hoses and thermostat myself. $800+ in labor seems like a hell of a racket if you ask me.

  Aj Gutz
7 months ago
A Nightmare Experience at Doug's Automotive repair 8800 sw 129 st. Miami, FLI recently had the misfortune of visiting [Doug's Automotive repair 8800 sw 129 st. Miami, FL for what should have been a routine air conditioner repair covered under warranty. Unfortunately, my experience at this establishment was nothing short of a nightmare, leaving me frustrated, disappointed, and questioning their integrity.First and foremost, their inability to properly fix my car's air conditioner is a testament to their lack of expertise and commitment to quality service. After leaving my car with them for what I hoped would be a quick fix, and a $1.300 bill, It's bewildering to think that a supposedly reputable car repair shop could fail to diagnose and repair such a basic issue, especially considering their supposed qualifications.What made matters worse was their audacity to attempt to charge me additional fees for repairs and claim that I now need new tires (unrelated issue). It's not only unethical but also demonstrates a complete disregard for their customers' rights and trust. I had to fight tooth and nail to avoid being scammed out of my hard-earned money for repairs that should have come at no extra cost to me.The customer service at Doug s Auto repair was also abysmal. The staff exhibited a dismissive and apathetic attitude towards my concerns, making it clear that they were more interested in making a quick buck than in rectifying their mistakes. My attempts to communicate my dissatisfaction were met with a shrug and excuses, leaving me feeling frustrated and unheard.Furthermore, when I went to open the hood to check on what they had done, my hood was difficult to open. They did NOT want to address that issue and said it was my responsibility.It was evident that attention to detail and professionalism were not priorities for them.In conclusion, my experience at Doug s Automotive was beyond disappointing. Their inability to properly fix my car's air conditioner, coupled with their attempt to charge me extra for associated repairs, showcases a lack of competence, honesty, and respect for their customers. I would strongly advise anyone considering their services to steer clear and find a more reputable and customer-centric establishment. It's a shame that such businesses continue to operate, preying on unsuspecting customers who deserve far better.

  David Burruss
a month ago
Doug was great. Kept us very informed along the way. Highly recommend.

  Suzanne Nelson
11 months ago
I have the first Ford hybrid brought into the state of Florida. It came to me only because I wrote an irate letter to the Chairman of the Board complaining that all thew hybrids were being shipped off the line directly to California. It's now old enough (2005) that even the dealers wouldn't attempt to decode the hybrid fault I got as the car died in the middle of US1. The stellar reviews on Doug's website encouraged me to have Ole' Bess towed to him. I am so glad I did. He worked his way to a fuel pump replacement. I just picked my antique up and it's running great. Every thing the reviews claimed were, indeed, true. I committed from here on.He kept me informed, did a good job, treated me in a friendly and respectful way.

  Andy Hazelton
7 months ago
Professional, honest, reasonable - all things you look for in a mechanic. I brought my Toyota Corolla here for a leak after being told by the dealership it needed thousands of dollars of work, and it turns out all it needed was a new gasket (~$200 with labor). They were also good about answering the phone which is always appreciated.

  Julie Alexandra McConnell
a year ago
This place is great. When I spoke on the phone to someone, they took the time to figure out what kind of car I had to be able to provide suggestions. Before doing any work on the car, they ask you if you would like to pursue the work with them. This shows that they are honest, considerate, and knowledgeable.When I took my car to Jiffy Lube, they told me that my transmission needed to be changed every 30,000 miles. When I call the dealership, they say that it needs to be changed every 5,000 miles. When I called Doug's Automotive, they looked into my car and found that the transmission oil does not ever need to be changed. The only thing that needed to be changed were my brakes because they were squeaking. I was very happy with this place, and I plan to be coming back more often!Service: Brakes

  Lia Pett
a year ago
Everyone is super nice and helpful. Doug was really honest and I felt I could trust him since I didn't know a lot about cars but I felt like he wasn't going to misdiagnose my car and take advantage of my lack of experience. I would recommend him not just because he is personable and kind but because he has been in the business for 40 years+ and knows what he is doing. He finished his work quickly and on time considering we had a hurricane coming and he still managed to give me my car as quickly as he could so I could drive to work.Services: Auto battery replacement, General repairs & maintenance, Engine repair, Vehicle safety inspection, Auto maintenance, Battery

  Pete Mata
a year ago
Excellent auto repair shop. Doug and his guys really know what they're doing. Honest and trustworthy mechanic. Doug will treat you right. Very safe place to take your vehicle. Highly recommended.

  Natenate Jones
11 months ago
I was referred to Doug from my previous stellar mechanic for decades, Kevin.I had an entire brake system installed by Champion 4x4 that failed after 1 year.PowerStop brakes including pads, rotors, and calipers. C4x4 neglected to install the new calipers (yes I'm ignorant for not checking). They also didn't flush/change my brake fluid.Long story short, my rear calipers froze, wearing out my rear pads then rotors. My front pads were done also.Doug replaced rear pads-rotors-calipers and front pads. Did a FULL flush and replace of brake fluid. All in ONE day.It's been 2 years now and I have not had an issue.I'm sorry Doug for not posting this review sooner. I waited this long to make sure the job was done right and it definitely has.I'll see you soon for a coolant flush...Services: Auto brake repair, Auto brake replacement

  Jose M. Noy
2 years ago
Doug's is not the cheapest in town, but his work is reliable. I rather pay a bit more one time only than having to return to any shop for the same issue several times. At the end, it is worthwhile. Doug has repaired 2 issues in my 190K mile 2011 Sprinter and I am very happy with the results. Today I am bringing it to check the engine light and an oil change. I am leaving the truck overnight for the work. I hope my visit today maintains this rating.Services: General repairs & maintenance, Engine repair, Brakes, Air conditioning, Oil change

  margie brett
a year ago
Wonderful experience, superb customer service, and highly trained automotive technicians. Mr Doug and his staff handled all the car repairs in a timely manner and keeping me apprised of its progress. Any future service will only be handled by Doug's Automotive. Highly recommend!!!!

  Vincitore Califa
a year ago
Wonderful experience at Doug's Automotive. Excellent customer service, highly trained technicians and very professional. The services performed on my vehicle were flawless and highly recommend. Once again, thank you!!!!Service: General repairs & maintenanceService: General repairs & maintenance

  walter sanchez
3 years ago
Took my 1976 Chevy Blazer to Doug's for some repairs. They were very friendly and took in my car immediately. They communicated with me every step of the way. Doug was very knowledgeable and even followed up with me to make sure everything was working properly. You are not going to get this type of service in Miami. Highly recommend to take you car to them. Thank you again, you have gained my business.Services: Electrical repair, Steering & suspension repair, Wheel alignment, Oil change

  Nancy Schwartz
2 years ago
I was so impressed with Doug and his staff. I brought in my 1970 Javelin for restoration. It was a long and time consuming project. Doug kept me informed on a weekly basis of what was being done and what was next. We constantly discussed the budget and he gave me choices along the way. In the future I will bring all my car needs to Doug. I'm so happy to have someone I trust.Service: Engine repair

  Deborah Ferris
2 years ago
My very old vehicle (2004) with less than 65,000 miles needed substantial maintenance and repair services. I knew the cost to perform the services for my badly neglected vehicle would not be inexpensive. I advised Doug that I could not afford a new vehicle at present because my home roof replacement was more important. I requested a full-blown estimate. Much to my delight, Doug provided an extremely detailed estimate and broke it down in two categories: 1. "must do now" safety issues; and 2. important maintenance according to the standard dealer recommendations that should be considered within the next 6 to 12 months. He took the time to answer all my questions related to the estimates and educate me regarding the importance of proper and periodic maintenance so that my vehicle would last for many more years. When I told Doug that I could not make the final payment for the "must do now" safety issues service for almost 8-9 days after he started, he advised it was okay and that he would keep the vehicle safe. He even did extra things free of charge, like replacing my car plate and adjusting the rear bumper which was missing some of the clamps that secured it to the vehicle so it would not come loose.Doug contacted me when the work was completed, well in advance of the 9 days just to keep me abreast of the status.When I went to pick up my vehicle, I asked Doug to provide me instructions on how long I could wait until I should return to have the dealer recommended service work performed related to the second estimate. Rather than give me just one date for all the recommended service work, he broke the service down into four parts which were prioritized by importance so that I would not be financially burdened by doing all the work at once.After picking up my 2004 Toyota Solara and drove it home, I felt safe and like I was in a different vehicle. The repairs much improved the look of my vehicle. The car drove so nicely and didn't make any strange noises and the rear bumper was connected and secure.I have never purchased a used vehicle. All my vehicles were purchased brand new. Life circumstances required that I hold onto my 2004 Toyota Solara for a long time. This was the very first time any car dealership or mechanic took the time to assist me with properly servicing, repairing and maintaining my vehicle while taking into consideration my personal financial situation.Doug exhibit both kindness and care for me as a person and client. He didn't shame me related to the condition of my vehicle after he inspected it and produced the two estimates or make me feel unworthy because I don't own a new or fancy vehicle. The cost of the work performed was not inexpensive, but very fair and proper.I am so pleased with the work and can state with confidence that Doug's Automotive is "top notch" and Doug is both an honorable and caring businessman who takes good care of his clients and their vehicles. Thanks Doug!! See you in six months!!Services: Transmission, Electrical repair, Air & cabin filter replacement, Tires, Steering & suspension repair, Painting, General repairs & maintenance, Electrical, Auto engine diagnostic, Auto engine tuning, Engine repair, Wheel alignment, Brakes, Oil change

  Chad Kenneally
3 years ago
Doug was great from start to finish. I came in with an estimate/diagnostic from a neighboring dealership. He confirmed the issue and advised the cost to repair. The air conditioning repair was expensive ($1500+), so he was careful to tell me exactly what went wrong and why it needed to be repaired, as well as advise how they tested it. He made sure to confirm with me before performing work, so there were no hidden costs. Even better, when I had an issue a couple months after the repair that I thought was related(it was a different issue), he told me to bring the car in and he took a look to determine the issue and advised that this part was under an extended warranty so it would be free to repair at a dealership. Great service all around. Highly recommend.Services: A/C installation & repair, Air conditioning

  Manuel Nunez
2 years ago
It was recommended to me to take my pickup truck to this shop by another shop for an electrical problem that it was having. I spoke with Doug the owner and he told me he'd be willing to work on the vehicle but it would take a minimum of a week to diagnose the problem. I said to him I did not have an issue with that because I know how that can be time consuming. I also said that I had to rent a vehicle and to let me know what is happening with my truck. I dropped off the vehicle and left it there. Exactly 2 weeks after dropping off the vehicle I still have not heard anything from the shop. So I called and spoke to Doug directly and he told me that it is it was harder than he had anticipated and that he needed more time and that he wanted to talk to me about the issues it was having and that he'll call me back. I said OK and we hung up. 2 days later I hadn't heard from him so I called him back. He stated the exact same thing on this call. I gave him the benefit of the doubt and said it was ok. The next day (Friday) by the end of the day I hadn't heard from him. I ended up talking to Jimmy at the shop and made arrangements to go pick up my truck. I had passed by the shop a few times before this and noticed that the truck was always parked outside. About 2 hours later I get a message from Doug that he was working late that day and he didn't get a chance to call me back about my vehicle. I went and picked up the truck and drove it home. I then inspected it and I noticed that absolutely no obvious work had been done to it. Everything was exactly as I left it. I then get a call Monday morning from Doug stating that there was a big misunderstanding that he was actually going to work on my car that day and that it shouldn't have been released. I'm out a large rental fee for a vehicle for no reason because he wasn't honest with me. He should have told me he had too much work!! I still have to take it to another shop and rent another car to get my truck fixed. It's not fair!Service: Electrical repair

  Claudia Bier
4 years ago
Doug is one of the most reliable, knowledgeable, and best customer service auto repair company owners. He s taken care of all the vehicles in my whole family for the past 15 years. Not once have we had any issues with his staff s work and he s always gone the extra mile for us! Big Thank You! I highly recommend it without hesitation.

  Eric Charest
a year ago
For over 20 years my father has been taking his cars here because they are honest, reliable and fast. They are experts and they will not waste your time or money. Doug has been a gentleman to my father and has come to our rescue on many occasions. Thank you!

  Michael J
5 years ago
For years I had been taking my Volvo to the same mechanic, but when he announced he was leaving Miami I was a little lost as to where to find a replacement. He mentioned Doug's and after having used him on my car, my wife decided to use him as well. The service is top notch and his team are very focused on letting you know what's happening and when your car will be ready. The best part is Doug is a straight shooter just like my old mechanic and very fair with pricing.

  CESAR BENITEZ
2 years ago
After 3 weeks of having performed the service, I make a space to write a review. Actually, I didn't have the time available to do this. But at the same time, I've had enough to test my car after Doug went back to improper installation of shock absorbers from another "qualified" supplier. The explanation was simple about the damage and told me that the best thing for me was to go back to the workshop where the work was poorly done. I preferred to pay extra to make sure the work is honest and well done but not go through a claim, which would be exhausting and unpleasant, I don't have time to do that. Final words: Thank you, Dough. Excellent work! You also gave me the AAA member discount. You have another satisfied customer who will refer anyone else who needs great service.

  Jennifer Gomez
5 years ago
Excellent service! I have taken my car to several places and have always had issues. Then I found Doug. I live no where near his shop but he is worth the drive. He really cares and they are honest people. My car was sounding sick and running rough. He knew exactly what it needed

  Gennady Kaykov
5 years ago
Just had my wife s car serviced at Doug s. The experience was phenomenal. The quality of work, service and customer satisfaction is to be envied. The vehicle was upgraded with performance breaks, scheduled maintenance and bushing replacement. Doug is the real deal, a master mechanic that doesn t waste your time or his. He texted with updates and even photos. Then even followed up a day later to make sure I was happy. This is the kind of business model America was built in but unfortunately is now scarce. Thank you Doug.

  Frank Mestre
a year ago
Doug is a true, honest, and professional mechanic. I take all of my cars to him from routine oil changes to full blown engine over hauls.

  ronald medina
5 years ago
Doug is very professional and the service is excellent. I brought in my Range Rover for brakes replacement and the price is very fair with a quick turnaround. This is not one of those shops where you drop off your car and walk away, he will guide you through the service and work with you to keep your car's maintenance up to date! thanks Doug and team

  tlllau
5 years ago
Doug s Automotive Repair was recommended by a friend & I m glad I did. Doug is an excellent mechanic. I ve taken my car, 2008 Honda Civic, twice. Not only does he fix the problem but he always performs a safety check. He s not cheap but I d rather drive my car without fear of it breaking done. I wentto an inexpensive mechanic before & he only fixed what was broken, no safety checks. Last time I went to him he forgot to replace the oil. Bad experience. Try DOUG S AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR you won t regret it!

  C Q
3 years ago
I have had such a hard time finding a good and honest mechanic including taking it to the dealership with no luck. I came to Doug's and felt very secure in dropping off my vehicle, I had a peace of mind that they were going to do things right and be honest. Great place AND my car was fixed!

  Mike Hilt
5 years ago
My jeep had a major computer failure and left us stuck for a few days. We had the jeep towed to Doug's based on a AAA recommendation. I felt informed during the whole process with multiple calls from Doug and the receptionist. They diagnosed the problem accurately, had parts timely and the cost was accurate to what i researched on line. They also followed up a few days later to see how the jeep was performing. I felt like i was treated fairly. It was so nice that someone answered the phone every time I called. We all hate car trouble however I really enjoyed the experience of getting the problem fixed.

  Mayer Ersoff
5 years ago
This was my first time taking my car to Doug's. I was having brake issues on my 2006 Toyota Highlander that other repair shops could not fix. Doug took his time to analyze my brake system, identify the issue, and repair my brakes at a reasonable cost. Great repair shop! I'll use Doug's again for any future auto repair needs.

  alex - mr alex TATE Design
5 years ago
I recently had to take by Range Rover Sport to get it checked out because wheels and/or brakes were making some noise. I didn't want to take it back to the dealer since their service is less than adequate, not to mention over-priced for the headache. I ran across Doug and his team and will say, I was glad I did. He and the team were amazing at diagnosing the problem and were very upfront about the costs. Their goal was to be as thorough as possible and look for alternatives that would save you money rather than just start changing parts and raking up the labor costs. Needless to say, we will be back when future issues arise and we'll certainly take our other vehicles there. These guys are a true gem. They are knowledgeable, thorough and well-priced.