Woodard Automotive
4.8 (152)
18 Short St, Fredericksburg, VA 22405
(540) 373-5269
woodardauto.com
Claimed
From the business
- Identifies as women-owned
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
Reviews
Reviews are sorted by relevance, with the most helpful and insightful feedback listed first for easy reference.
Sandy R
2 months ago
There are not enough stars on the scale to coincide with how elated I am with the level of service and overall satisfying experience I received on my first visit to Woodard!(This review is lengthy, but I wanted to show the huge difference between my experience with the dealer and Woodard Automotive.)I recently purchased a Certified Preowned (CPO) Land Rover (LR)... but had feelings of buyer's remorse -- especially after leaving Land Rover's service department.There was a rattling sound in my dashboard. After a 2-3 minute drive with a mechanic, and without popping the hood, LR told me that I would have to leave the vehicle because the "entire dashboard would have to be disassembled". The service adviser claimed that finding the cause of rattles is "tricky". He implied that it is so labor-intensive that it would take an unknown number of hours to "TRY to fix the problem..."; "there's no guarantee that it could be fixed...", and "the problem could even get worse... because you never know about rattles". (Imagine, purchasing a CPO vehicle, under warranty, but non-mechanical, non-electrical issues like "rattles" are not included in coverage.)As if their initial display of incompetence wasn't enough, the service adviser stopped me as I was getting into my vehicle and added - "...the other option is to wait until something worse happens in the dash... then Land Rover would cover it." I'm almost sure LR wouldn't take too kindly to that advice. (lol) And, why would he think I'd feel comfortable driving a vehicle that could potentially get worse, or leave me stranded somewhere -- primarily because I took the insane advice to ignore the rattle. (SMH) Their incompetence/fumbling blindly, hoping to get lucky and find the problem, would have cost me $246/hr.It took Woodard's owners, Andy, Lori, and a stethoscope (fondly called Dr. Andy) (smile) MINUTES to pinpoint the problem! I assume the mistake was probably made during the 165-point CPO inspection. (SMH)Needless to say, after leaving Woodard, I didn't even grant LR the courtesy of canceling my appointment. No call, no show is what they deserved.If Woodard accepts Land Rover's warranty and vice versa - I would breathe a sigh of relief, because I do NOT want to return to the dealer -- not even for repairs that are covered under the warranty.These days, it is virtually impossible to find a great master mechanic who can be trusted - in addition to a well-equipped facility to meet the demands of services needed to repair high-tech/late model vehicles. Woodard encompasses all of it!I thank God that I was led to Woodard's website. They are welcoming, personable, professional, and most of all competent and highly experienced! THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!
Leslie May
7 months ago
Absolutely excellent. Had previously taken my car in to have the codes read at several places, then took it to the dealer where I bought it in January for an estimate for repair. I did not agree with them about the problem. So glad I took my car to Woodard. They found a service bulletin and correctly diagnosed my vehicles problem. They were polite, courteous and repaired my car in timely fashion. Will definitely return to them for any future repair work.
Quentin Jackson
7 months ago
Sorry so long I tried to be as detailed as possible. Consumer beware I usually do not do reviews but after a couple of weeks, I decided to let the public know. I took my 97 Suburban in to get the AC evacuated and recharged. I explained to the gentleman behind the counter that one it is a large dual system and would require a lot to properly recharge the system per my research. The gentleman stated that he was familiar with these dual system Suburbans . I also explained that I had been without AC for about 2 summers because my compressor was leaking and that my system was completely empty. I explained that I changed the Compressor, Condenser, evaporator, Orifice tube and all hoses except for the rear ac hose. The gentleman then explained the process stating that he would put the vehicle on the system longer to make sure all the moister was out of the system first then while recharging add more dye because of the size of the system in case there was a leak so they could find it . He told me that it would take awhile and that I should be able to pick it up the next day which was cool with me. A couple hours later I get a call that it s all done that was quick is what I thought nevertheless I was like cool no leaks they finished early. I get the vehicle right at closing time drive home cool not cold ac but suburbans take awhile to cool down such a large vehicle so I thought nothing of it. A few days later I drove it to Lowe s no ac at all. I took the vehicle back and I received a call from the owner saying that there must be a leak but before they looked for it understand that it s not included and that I will be charged the same amount I just paid to have all that discovered in the first place. Clueless or confused I asked for the owner and the lady on the phone stated that she was the owner. So I asked about the dye that was supposedly used and I was told that there was no dye present so I said well your mechanics must not have put any in there so why would I have to pay twice for your mistake. I then got the run around from whom I was told was the owner she said that she wasn t going to pay for it and that it isn t her fault so I d have to pay or pick my vehicle up before it was towed . Since then I have spoken to several mechanics in the area without revealing this situation of course and they all said that they would ensure that there wasn t any leaks before my vehicle left their facility. This along with how unfairly treated I felt I was is why I decided to write this review. When you move to a new area It is hard to find a honest mechanic I thought being a local family owed business would be honest guess not. Poor job Woodard and poor customer service or lack there of.Services: Auto A/C recharge, Air conditioning
Joe V
7 months ago
I was recommended to go here by a shop I like that does tires. They have great customer service, good prices, and seem like genuine honest people. I'm going to keep taking my car here when it needs inspections or work. I definitely recommend them.
Leah Dooley
8 months ago
Absolutely wonderful people!! Our car lost its brakes on the way to Tampa, Florida and they were able to get us in and fix up our car in one night. Amazing staff and very thankful for such an amazing experience! Thank you guys! Enjoy the blue moons on us ;)Services: Auto brake repair, BrakesServices: Auto brake repair, Brakes
Daniel Zimpelmann
6 months ago
Absolutely love Lori and her team at Woodard automotive. Been taking my vehicles to her for the past three years. Best service I can ask for!
Josh
8 months ago
Took my 2011 f150 that I just bought in due to suspension noises and a rolling noise that sounded like it was coming from the bed. They found the hidden rolling noise, but couldn t find the suspension noise when they test drove it, so they inspected my suspension instead and confirmed it was still structurally safe despite any noises that may occur. Best part is, they didn t charge a dime because they said no real work was done! The honesty is hard to come by nowadays, would definitely recommend them to a friend.Service: Steering & suspension repair
Stephen Szalach Jr.
8 months ago
My work vehicle broke down on 95 near their shop (I was about 50 miles away from home). I called to see if they could take a look and thankfully they were able to fit me in. Work was diagnosed and they had me back on the road very quickly. I highly recommend this shop.
sally boswell
7 months ago
This auto shop saved our bacon! My husband and I were halfway into a 2 hour drive - towing a boat [in the rain with 2 dogs in the car]. When we stopped at Arbys, we noticed one of the trailer brakes had frozen up and was smoking! A 7-11 clerk and a tire shop finally directed us to Woodward. The shop owner immediately, jacked it up, analyzed the problem and made it safe to go back on the highway. He didn't charge for his effort and even refused a tip!! [...saying he does not normally work on trailers]. The world should have more people like this. Thank you - thank you - thank you!!!!
Winston Jones
2 years ago
First off, I'm always cautious about businesses with super high review ratings. However, I went with this establishment because it was the closest to me. I wasn't disappointed at all. Having your vehicle break down and needing repairs/maintenance can be stressful. Finding an honest and reasonable mechanic shop is another type of stress. Luckily, Woodard Automotive was an affordable and professional business. They got my car in quickly and out in no time. Always the receptionist was friendly and kept me up to date on the whole process. The only thing I didn't like was that they recommended an expensive tow truck company. Overall, great company.Services: Electrical repair, Electrical, Battery
Siock Aaron
11 months ago
I brought my Volkswagen in to have diagnostics and potentially have the vehicle fixed by Woodard. They told me the part I needed and quoted me a price that I thought sounded high, so I asked them just to stick with the diagnostics. In my opinion the lady I was speaking with sounded a bit upset that I denied service. I called the dealership to check on the part I was told I needed before going back to pick up my car. The dealership told me they don't have an exact match listed for "upper heater hose assembly" on my car. No problem, I paid for diagnostics, so I can go get some clarification. I went to pick up my car and asked if there is anyway they could tell me more about this part or if it would go by another name or part number? The lady said "she didn't know and to call the dealership" I told her I did, and they didn't have a match for the part Woodard told me to get. I then asked if there was anyway I could speak to someone that did the diagnostics since she couldn't help. She told me "We aren't going to do that" I paid for diagnostics and told I need a part that the the dealership says doesn't exist. I ordered the only part that Volkswagen said they thought Woodard was speaking of. $100 in diagnostics and the part doesn't fit. I took it to a shop close by, and they fixed my car for a third of what Woodard asked, and I got a warranty, New parts and all! Also, I was able to return the $190 wrong part. Whether this was a misunderstanding on Volkswagen's parts department or Woodard, I can't say for sure, but I was just asking for help and couldn't count on Woodard for that. Judging by these other reviews, I'm sure Woodard is great, but I just didn't have that experience with them.
Betsy Valdez
2 years ago
Our car unexpectedly broke down and Woodard Automotive happened to be just down the road. We were shocked at how kind, quickly, and expertly they resolved the issue. This has been the best experience I've had at a mechanic in my life. They're exceptional.
Leah Marie
a year ago
I'm moving back to NH from FL this wk & driving. Van started vibrating when going abt 60 mph. Overnight stop in VA. Gave them a call. Lori was so kind, friendly & helpful. I brought the van in & they fixed a very badly worn tire (yes, I had the van checked before leaving). I'm grateful beyond words that they were able to help during this emergency & very stressful situation. They were also very professional & thorough. They showed me the damages & explained to me what was done. They went above & beyond. I highly recommend them.Services: Tires, Auto maintenance
Jonah Garner
2 years ago
This shop has been amazing! I greatly appreciate their honesty and integrity in every interaction I've had with them. You can tell the owner's care about running a high quality shop and doing what's best for their customers. I can't recommend them highly enough! A mechanic you can trust is invaluable and I'm so happy I found WoodardServices: Auto engine diagnostic, Engine repair
Scott OBrien
3 years ago
I'm not from here and this is the first time I've been to Woodard Automotive. If you are from this area or from out of town I would recommend this Auto repair shop. I met Lori and dealt with her. I found her to be very understanding. Trust me, I was in a bad spot. I was worried the repairs would be more than the value of my vehicle. I no longer have that problem and now have new front rotors and front brake pads. I don't believe I would have gotten any better and possibly not as good a price and service from my hometown of 30+ years. Thank you Woodard Automotive. You got an old stranger out of a serious jam. It was wonderful to see that in today's new and different world there are some honest, kind and hard working business people still around. Again to Lori and Woodard AutomotiveThank youScott O'Brien
William DeWar
a year ago
Fantastic service. They are very honest and prompt with their repairs. When I take my vehicles here for inspections, I don t feel like they are trying to nickel and dime me like I do at a lot of other places.
Myrloch O The Blade
3 years ago
Great place! I own a Saab and couldn't find a shop willing to take it on and they did! They figured out one major problem that two other shops couldn't figure out and when unexpected problems arose I was promptly called and had all options discussed with me. Their prices are fair and the staff was friendly and knowledgeable. Will definitely be taking my car and my wife's car there in the future.Services: Electrical repair, Steering & suspension repair, General repairs & maintenance, Wheel alignment
Geoffrey Browning
a year ago
Had this shop put on calipers and brake pads and one of the calipers fell off going down the road banging and clanging down 95 scaring us half to death and we found two of the tires were infalted to over 80lbs when it only calls for 35lbs of air. The over inflation caused one tires belts to brake causing a big bulble in the tire and we had to replace it.Go somewhere else if you want reliable service.But they have very good customer service.
Tod Johnson
3 years ago
Great service and people. I have used Woodard for my F350 after others failed to understand my diesel truck. I am embarrassed I fail to be able to list their names even though they recognize me and my truck. Today they gave the extra effort when I showed up at their time of closing. The mechanic identified the foul noise was my bearings and stayed late to repair my truck. Awesome people. Their manager (lady at the front desk) is very on top of things since it was her suggestions with prior repairs to replace the Ford lock out hubs with a better brand which saved me now. She had also advised with a prior break repair higher performance rotor's which again saved me today. Smart lady - very intelligent. Repair costs where much less than if I had used Pervis Ford which had not been able to offer the upgrades. Awesome people!!
Summer Jordan
a year ago
I got an inspection and an oil change this time. Also, had a rear wheel bearing and assembly replaced. Amazing place, nice people, great work! Highly recommend!!!
Dizzy Dane
4 years ago
First time customer based off the good reviews I had read. I was very pleased with their quick diagnosis and repair of my car! I also like how their property seems well kept up, clean, and not overly crowded. I felt comfortable dropping off my car in the evening after they had closed. I will be returning!
Lerian Stringer
3 years ago
By far the best run shop I have been to. Inside the waiting area is clean, well decorated, smells great. Laurie ( sp) I think her name is- makes you feel like family. My kids were very comfortable there. The techs are great, knowledgeable- quality work. I will be bringing all my cars here.They go above and beyond, literally!!Couldn t have done it better if I worked there myself! High standards, it was a great experience.Thank you guys so much!!!!!
David Jordan
6 months ago
They're great! They repaired my Audi in a day..Customer service at its best!
Steven Hylinski
5 years ago
Trustworthy mechanics. Friendly and knowledgeable service writer. The best wheel alignments I have ever gotten. This shop has a modern, high-end Hunter Hawkeye Elite alignment machine. Their alignments are so reasonably priced and they have always been right the first time, and I am incredibly picky. I am hard to please and I recommend this shop.
Stephanie Clark
5 years ago
They're the finest mechanics I've come across in years. They're efficient, fast, professional and get this..... Honest too. They were fair in their prices and being a single mother going through some rough times right now if my car were down right now I would've been done. In less than 2 hours my car was fixed. Thank you Laura and the crew. You're right. This was better then doughnuts. Have a blessed 2019.
Kayla Newcomb
3 years ago
Great experience going to Woodard for my state inspection! First time using them and they were very helpful over the phone prior to dropping off my car and were able to finish the inspection in short amount of time and at a really affordable rate. Thanks so much!
Brian Christian
3 years ago
I have had oil changes, inspections, and wheel alignments completed at Woodard Automotive, and they are always fair and professional. I recently purchased new tires and was told that my vehicle's rear brakes needed to be replaced. I contacted Woodard's and dropped my car off, expecting to have the vehicle brakes replaced. I got a call from Lori, who stated that the front and rear brakes were inspected and did not need to be replaced. Lori also explained to me the amount of available brake life left on the front and rear pads. I always admired their professionalism, but I now admire their honesty too! I WILL be going back and spreading the word about Woodard Automotive.Services: Wheel alignment, Brakes
Davis Buttala
2 years ago
Driving north on I95 and had some car trouble and pulled into Woodard Automotive. Was helped quickly and with great service. They even brought me into the shop to explain what went wrong. Great people running a fantasic shop. They have my business for life.
Lisa Barrett
5 years ago
Andy and Lori have been taking care of our vehicles for years. I'm glad to have a place where I feel confident I'm going to get honest, competent and reliable service, and they stand behind their work. They also do a great job at trying to keep your costs to a minimum!
beverly toves
5 years ago
My husband and I have used Woodard's Automotive for at least 15 years now. We have found them the most honest and reliable automotive dealers around. When the new owners took over they proved to be the same. I want to be a patron of a business full of honesty, integrity and a friendly smile. And I know that if I took my auto to a dealership that it would cost me so much more and who knows if they did what they were supposed to do. Kudos to Woodard's Automotive!!