Veenstra's Garage

Reviews

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

  Aaron Ozark
4 weeks ago
The day before leaving town for my child's hockey tournament, my car started acting weird. The dealership couldn't get me in for a week so I called Veenstra's. Got me in the next day, repaired, and on my way. Great service, great work, and a fair price. Thank you Veenstra's for saving the day!

  Bill Schaner
5 months ago
I was driving through Grand Rapids and had a mechanical issue. AAA gave me a referral to a service station that only serviced foreign cars, but the foreign car place recommended Veenstra's. I had to use the drop box since it was after work hours. They called me the next day very early to discuss the issue with the car. They understood my situation and even though they had a full schedule they were able to look at my vehicle and diagnose the problem. Unfortunately , they did not have the time to repair it the same day, but they did have it back to me the next business day. I really appreciated the professionalism. Thanks

  Raptor Rob
9 months ago
I am delighted to share my recent experience with an extraordinary individual named Kim, who works at Veenstra's Mechanic Shop. Kim's incredible kindness and willingness to go the extra mile left an indelible impression on me, making my car trouble a much more manageable and positive experience.It was a fateful day when my car unexpectedly broke down, leaving me stranded just across the street from Veenstra's. Feeling frustrated and unsure of what to do, I decided to take a chance and seek help at the nearby mechanic shop. Little did I know that I was about to encounter someone exceptional.Kim, a mechanic at Veenstra's, greeted me with a warm smile and an eagerness to assist me. Even though it was his well-deserved lunch break, he immediately put aside his personal time to address my car troubles. His dedication and commitment to customer service were evident from the start.I was struck by Kim's professionalism and expertise. He swiftly diagnosed the issue with my vehicle and outlined the necessary steps to fix it. Despite the limited time available during his break, Kim assured me that he would do everything possible to get my car back on the road as quickly as possible.What stood out the most about Kim was his exceptional kindness and genuine care for my situation. He recognized the stress I was experiencing and went above and beyond to ensure my comfort and peace of mind. He patiently explained the repairs, offering insights and answering all my questions with a friendly and approachable demeanor.

  Chris Buiten
5 months ago
Came here 2 years ago for an exhaust repair. They rushed the project and I had to bring the car back to them not actually fixing the issue for $1500.They did a quick fix and the repair blew out 2 years later. Now I'm doing the repair properly.Come to find out They bent the connecting pipes while installing them and didn't replace them.This place is shady and their work doesn't last.

  Sal Moreno
4 years ago
I have been coming to Veenstra's for a couple of years now and they have seen me through 3 different cars. They put up with my anxious car questions and frequent calls of "my car doesn't feel right". I use my Napa Easy Pay credit card here and it helps make large repairs more manageable. They are flexible, honest and do their best and are honest if they don't know the answer.

  Brian Worsley
7 months ago
They do a really good job fixing my vehicle, but it is going to cost you $100 dollars to look at your vehicle. They are also very busy and took them a week to get to my vehicle the last 2 times I've been there.

  Kevin Bradley
a year ago
Probably the most professional service place I've ever used. Got me in same day for an Alternator. They also did a complete evaluation of everything they'd recommend i do for my Rav4 with no pressure to do it immediately. I don't believe they're the cheapest option but I'm also not sure thats a bad thing. Ive used the cheapest places and it doesn't always end well. Overall a really positive experience. Thanks

  Craig Newhouse
a year ago
They've done 2 repairs for our family so far this year, and both seem to have been a good value, held up, and staff was helpful & courteous. Liked that they were able to clearly explain services, optional items, and didn't pressure us. Recommended by several of our neighbors as well.

  Bethann T
9 months ago
I had a flat tire and the lug nuts were stripped. I had my car towed to Veenstra's on the recommendation of my sister in law. They said they would have it done by the next day, and they did. They managed to fix the tire, for way less than buying a new tire would be. They even dropped me off at home and picked me up the next day. I think you have to be in their pickup/drop off area for that, but I really appreciated them going above and beyond to do that. As a side note everyone I dealt with there was really nice and friendly.Edit as of 2023They straight up lied to a friend of mine about what was wrong with his car that would've been 3 times what the actual repair cost.

  steven lomonaco
a year ago
I have been looking for most of the summer at what is going to be a best tire to put on my car. After talking and doing my research on tires I finally settled on some nokian tires wgr4s. James at the Grand Rapids location is real easy to work with. Great customer service. They have also solved an issue I was having with my car for over a year that a ford dealership could not fix after talking with them several times.

  Carri Shipaila
2 years ago
I spend more time in my car on the road then home. Veenstras has kept my car running for normal things like oil changes to much bigger issues such as my transmission. I know I can depend on the work they provide and the owner and the staff is kind and knowledgeable. I highly recommend them for your vehicles.

  Adam Shatsky
3 years ago
Veenstra s can be expensive. After bringing my vehicle in over the years, however, I believe that expense is justified by the quality of service and customer service they provide. Everyone in the front office James, Austin, and Brad to the mechanics that work on the vehicles go above and beyond to ensure their customers are pleased and safe. Quality auto shops are few and far between these days for various reasons, so I m thankful I found the one that treats me right and gets the job done. Thank you all for the stellar work!

  Benjamin Shewan
4 years ago
The Veenstra's Garage team is a cut above. They take care to get to know their clients and work with them to find the solution that fits their needs. I first started taking my vehicles there in 2012. I have never considered going anywhere else. Whether it is an oil change or a major repair they get me back driving as soon as possible. I have even had a mechanic take the time to do a ride along to narrow down a repair I needed. They always have put my experience first.Recently I hit a deer and they were willing to assess the damage. It turned out that I needed the expertise of a body shop. I love the fact that I can trust their team to make the right call, even if that means getting the work done elsewhere. It speaks volumes when businesses operate this way.I recommend Veenstra's to friend's and family. If you are considering a new mechanic, or just moved to the area, I would start here.

  Kathryn Lamy
2 years ago
I have used Veenstra's 4 different times now. Each time I've been increasingly disappointed. They recently started charging inspection fees and the first time I had to pay this they didn't tell me there would be a fee prior to the inspection so we compromised at $25 instead of the $50 (for break inspection). Also was charged a $98 inspection fee for an issue I had with my EVAP vent. I completely understand this charge to protect themselves from people getting inspections and not getting any service through them, but for the people like myself who paid them for the service, that $98 doesn't go toward any labor, it's just an extra $98 on top of what they already overcharge. I've been overcharged for breaks as well (a whopping $600 for only rear breaks/rotors). They do a good job and are knowledgeable, but might not be worth it for the cost.Services: General repairs & maintenance, Brakes

  Gil Suh
4 years ago
I got their brochure in mail. Our car needed urgent repair, so I decided to give them a try. Customer service was superb. After I dropped off the car, Ed drove me to our house. He was so personable. They called me later and explained what needed to be fixed. I sensed I could trust these guys. It took longer than expected. But now car runs smoothly. I wish I could give 5 stars but felt the $ was a bit pricey. If you don t mind paying extra for trustworthy service (they offer different types of warranty), VG is the place to go.

  Jackie B
a year ago
Went in here to see if they could locate a brake leak (I knew it was somewhere by the left rear) they told me I needed $2500 worth of repairs...all new brake lines, pads, rotors, calipers. I was blown away, for one I knew I did not need rotors, pads and calipers on all my tires. I know what bad brakes sound like and what bad rotors feel like to the touch. I knew then they were trying to get away with doing everything, probably because I'm a woman. Well I asked my mechanic at work (I'm in the landscape industry) he said there was no way it should cost that much. I pulled my car out of there right away after paying the 49 dollar fee what a waste. I took my car elsewhere and had my back brake lines repaired for only $388. I proceeded to go to Ohio for vacation and made it home safely. Don't go here, they just want your money.

  Eric
4 years ago
Veenstra's is a great family owned service shop. I have been taking my vehicles to them for years. They always get me in quickly. This last time around, I wasn't sure I wanted to make the repairs as I was about ready to trade in the vehicle. They did some diagnostics and told me the next steps were going to be a few hundred dollars. When I said I did not want to proceed, they did not charge me for their initial diagnostic work up where other shops I know would easily have charged me $70-100 to even take a look at it. They are professional and honest to the core.

  Ted Lascari
5 years ago
My dad was a mechanic years ago and recommended only a few trustworthy garage's in the Grand Rapids area. I am glad that Veenstra' was one of them. After a few years of taking three different vehicles to them, I have always received amazing explanations, options based on what I may be able to afford, and phenomenal customer service. I swear after only a couple of times in, multiple people new my name, asked about my wife, and continue to be genuine. No one likes to spend the money, especially if it's not the news that we were hoping for on a vehicle, but I always walk away knowing that I got great service, and a group that stands behind their work!

  Linda Keyes
2 years ago
Veenstra garage has always been able to get me in quickly and provide quality service. They provide me a ride home and pick me up when it s ready , which is a huge help. They fully explain their service, and are friendly and professional. I will continue to trust them with my carsServices: Steering & suspension repair, General repairs & maintenance, A/C installation & repairServices: Steering & suspension repair, General repairs & maintenance, A/C installation & repair

  Joanna Abud
4 years ago
Ever since moving to the area 3 years ago, I have only called upon Veenstra s for any car issues I ve had, and all of my oil changes. Their kind service, speedy fixes, and honest suggestions in repairs has been a life saver and so wonderful to have in the neighborhood. Whether I stay in store or go home while my car is being seen, they are friendly in the office, and it s nice to have the ability to get a ride home. They offer this ride service free, and if they aren t able to drive you, they ll call an Uber so you won t have to wait They have come to know me, and my car!

  Claire Leaf
4 years ago
I exclusively take my cart to Veenstra's and have continuously recommended their services to family and friends. They are so polite and kind and really take care of the customer. As someone that doesn't know their way around an engine, Veenstra's takes the time to explain any problems or potential problems and give a variety of pricing options to fit the customers budget. They even drove out to my house to take care of an issue I had with my car rather than risking me drive it. Check them out!

  Sam Swart
3 years ago
They have excellent, capable mechanics and are conveniently located. Unfortunately, to me, they fall under the category of shops who use these qualities to take advantage of customers. Their prices are higher than other mom and pop shops, they upcharge and try to swindle less knowledgeable customers into getting unnecessary things done. Now, if you don't mind paying a little extra for the peace of mind that your car is fixed right, this is a good place to go. But I can definitely recommend many other mechanics in the area who are more reasonable, honest and are just as capable.

  Steve Leaf
4 years ago
I moved to Grand Rapids a couple years ago and had been using a different garage for a brief period of time. I decided to use Veenstra's because they're closer and I can walk home after dropping my car off. It's that convenience, who doesn't love something convenient?! Anyway, I own a 2016 Ford Transit Connect and I have taken it in for service several times. They've gotten me squared away on a few oil changes now and a couple inspections preparing for longer haul road trips. I haven't had any problems. The crew is quite amiable and most importantly, talented at what they do. I'm a fan.

  Brett Pelavin
4 years ago
My wife and I have been taking our cars to Veenstra's for years. It's convenient since it is so close to our house, but mostly what I like is the fact that they will prioritize our car repairs, especially when it's unexpected. I really appreciate the fact that after taking our cars to them for a while they recognize us (and even our kid) and strive to give us premium service. Even when my friend's car broke down who was visiting us, they got her car in at the first possible opportunity. Thanks Veenstra's for thinking of us!

  Katie Manion
2 years ago
My car needed both head gaskets fixed. They described in detail what needed to be done and gave me an accurate estimate. These guys want to take care of you and do their best not to add extra non-essential fixes. We talked about what else made sense to replace while the entire engine was out and what items could wait. They even gave me a quote about the items that would eventually need attention. After I picked my car up the "check engine" came on and off intermittently so I called them. They took a look and checked the code and then fixed it for free. They want your car to work well and care about the person driving it as well.Services: Auto engine diagnostic, Engine repair, Oil change

  Peter Konyndyk
4 years ago
This is the second time I've brought my car to Veenstra's. They have always been very helpful. They will provide you the education and options you need to make sure everything is fixed accordingly. They were actually able to find a solution to my problem without having to replace the entire catalytic converter system, saving me a significant amount of money. Honest people and good work.

  Joel Lautenbach
4 years ago
I bring my car here for oil changes. I like having a local shop I can walk to and where they remember your name. James is always friendly and responsive. With a Veenstra's sticker on your plate, their oil changes are reasonably priced. I have had a few quotes/recommendations for service from that another shop performed for a lower cost or said I could wait on, but then again, it's always wise to get a second opinion if it's not an emergency.

  Carol Smith
2 years ago
This was my first visit to Veenstra Automotive. They are very professional. I asked for an overall inspection, Brad took time to explain what my car needs and why. We discussed which items to prioritize and which could wait for later this summer.Overall a positive experience.Service: Brakes

  Beth Thompson
5 years ago
I recently had Veenstras work on my car for the first time. My drivers side windshield wiper had stopped working. The tried really hard to find the easiest and most inexpensive fix for it. It ended up being the motor and James, the office manager, called around and found me a cheaper one than what was originally quoted and approved by me.During the process, something unexpected occurred and my windshield was cracked. They were so apologetic and had a new windshield installed by the time I was supposed to pick up my car, at no cost to me! This was one of the best experiences I ve ever had takin my car to a shop. Everyone was so professional and friendly. I felt like they were honest and really tried to keep my cost as low as possible. They have earned my loyalty!!!I would recommend this garage to anyone!!!

  George Pawlowski
5 years ago
We had used Veenstra's on Fulton St. for many years before we temporarily moved away. Always trustworthy with very professional services. Mike Veenstra is a class act .When we came back to town Mike opened a shop in Ada and ran it there leaving the old shop in hands of others. Talk in community was not good; that is, reputation not good. Started our service in old shop because of long-standing satisfaction with prior experience.Big mistake. Lots of over selling and glad handing.. Last time was an outrage. Bad rattle under car after they replaced transmission. Took back several times and they could not resolve , finally saying I had to spend $1,100 to fix. Got suspicious and took to 2 other shops both of whom immediately discovered that cradle bolts were not installed properly when transmission replaced. Cost of repair? $50!These guys are destroying Mike's well deserved and ages long reputation.