Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
Reviews
Reviews are sorted by relevance, with the most helpful and insightful feedback listed first for easy reference.
Jaden Hagmaier
5 months ago
So I got screamed at on the phone by this business yesterday. I got a state inspection and oil change, some fluids topped off, etc. in March last year and everything was pretty good. No complaints. They did great work. I had a Pep Boys oil change coupon so I took my car in today to get that and the inspection done. Took lots of trips so my cars brakes and tie rods quality didn't pass this year. Not islands imports fault, I'm sure they were passing last year. Called Island Imports to ask about their hourly rate since Pep Boys was rather high. Pep boys stated they would allow me to bring in parts to put in, so I was just shopping for an hourly rate and seeing where I could find ways to save. When I told whoever answered the phone at Island Imports this, they started screaming at me that they were not a reputable business and shops aren't allowed to do that. I didn't know that, but I am just trying to figure it all out. I interrupted her in the middle of what she was saying to state that pep boys told me differently, but that I was simply just trying to understand their hourly rates. The conversation devolved from there, I was near tears trying to get words out, and she was still telling me how rude I am for interrupting and implying her shop would ever put on parts I brought in myself. I was just trying to ask what their rate was to understand general costs. It was the most uncomfortable conversation I have ever had with a business and it ended her eventually explaining rates are dependent on a number of factors, and more or less stated that they didn't want my business and I should stay with Pep boys. I'm still gonna give them three stars because I know they're capable of good work, so I hope you guys have a really nice experience like the first time I went.Services: Vehicle safety inspection, Oil change
S
2 months ago
I would like to say that I would refer and recommend Island Import Service establishment to anyone that is looking for exceptional work and great customer service. I had the most amazing experience with Michelle and her husband who both genuinely care about their customers and together they are a great team that believes in going above and beyond to achieve quality and satisfaction.
Daniel Van Dyk
9 months ago
The people here are very kind, they stayed and worked late to help me out when I was in a bind driving through Richmond with an overheating car. Twice now they've helped me out on short notice for problems I've had on the road, and I'm grateful that there are such nice people who are looking out for others. Outstanding service!
Katie Adams Parrish
6 years ago
I have been taking vehicles to Island Import for more than 20 years. Over the course of that timeframe, my family has had 6 different vehicles serviced here, and we have been completely satisfied at every turn. They really go the extra mile.Doug, the mechanic, has gotten into my car to ride around with me -- in town, on the highway and on a nearby country road -- in order to properly identify the weird noise my car was erratically making, so that the right fix could be made. He always takes the time to explain what is going on with my car, so that I as the customer, can make informed choices around repairs and maintenance. I have learned so much from him over the years.Michelle, at the counter, has always been extremely helpful when scheduling service appointments, tracking and referencing each vehicle's service history, and researching and special ordering parts to get my family the best product for the best price. When we purchased a new car to replace our well-loved (and well-kept up, thanks to them!) Honda Civic that we had owned for 15+ years, Doug and Michelle even helped us find a buyer for it!I have never had a better mechanic experience anywhere else -- in or outside of Richmond -- and the customer care and service we have experienced at Island Import is among the best I have experienced anywhere ever. I can't recommend them enough.
Bob Bonham
4 years ago
After 30 years with the same service center, I still felt like they didn't know me or my cars. As much as I dislike change, the many miscues at my expense caused me to start looking around. I had heard positive things about Island over the years, read some more online reviews and decided to take a chance. I'm now confident that this will prove to be one of my better decisions in recent years...lol. Doug and Michelle aren't just good people, they both know cars. When you speak to Michelle on the phone you will feel like you're talking to the mechanic. Doug has myriad certifications with a strong electronics background, which was key in resolving my Crossfire's issues. Doug even had to fabricate a part to solve a previous body shop screwup. I love these guys and hope this is the beginning of a beautiful relationship.
Tony Jordan
9 years ago
I've been taking cars to Island Import for almost 14 years now. They are always more than friendly. They do a great job on the cars, rarely, if ever, needing rework done. They always let you know what urgently needs to get done and what can wait, so you can make the call on what you want done and when. Their prices are reasonable. I always feel like they are treating me with respect and honesty because they genuinely want to keep my business. I moved from Tobacco Row in 2004 but no matter where I live in Richmond, I continue to bring my car to Island Import Service.
Dryw Freed
4 years ago
I stopped at Island Import by chance when I ran into some car trouble on the road. Doug and Michelle were amazing. They were able to look at my car on the spot. Doug took the time to check it out thoroughly and make sure I understood what he found. I wish they were closer to me so I could take my car to them for regular service. I would go there again in a heartbeat.
Marla Gallaher
a year ago
Once again, Island Import Service comes in clutch. (Literally!!) Great repair job, clear communication, and I got my Sterling back in time to get everyone to my son's graduation tomorrow! Thank you for being the BEST mechanic shop around!!
Mary Kennedy
10 years ago
I was amazed by and great service that I received from Island Import Services. They were honest about what needed to be done to my car and their generosity and kindness is unparalleled. I will definitely be taking my car here for any work that needs to be done and recommending them to all my friends!-Kira, Richmond VA
Chef James
a year ago
Stopped inside because was having a problem with my abs they ran Diagnostic he told me thee problem and even explain it was something I could do and what the part I would need .didn't try to force a sell or make me get it fixed there. This will be where I will take all my cars to for as long as there are around
M Robb
8 years ago
ATTENTION ---- PLEASE NOTE:This review is not a reflection of the quality of their work and/or services; this review is a direct result of POOR customer service. I will reiterate: I have never had work done to my vehicle at this shop and this review does NOT reflect the quality of their workmanship.A shop only stays in business if they are the right choice for enough people. That means enough people have to say, "Let me take my car to Island Import for this," or "Hey, I know a shop that can fix that for you." That's what needs to happen every day for a shop to stay in business, and as such, the shop should pursue this in every ethical way possible. Here's a little secret: IT STARTS WHEN YOU ANSWER THE PHONE! I have no doubt that this shop does excellent work, or if they do it certainly wouldn't surprise me, HOWEVER; it is very important to maintain an atmosphere that is WARM and INVITING and HAPPY for the customer. It's important to create an atmosphere that draws potential clientele in, that makes them feel like more than another ticket. This did NOT happen in the slightest when I called in today; rather, the lady who answered chose to be condescending and hostile. She literally thought that she could speak down to me, presumptuously manhandle me into an agreement, and became hostile at the slightest amount of resistance. I asked her why she was so mad and she then spent 3 to 5 minutes, quite literally explaining every reason she had in her mind why she was in the right and I was in the wrong.Listen, the point of the story is you can't help everybody. I wanted to get a labor quote to replace an alternator that I would provide without any warranty. If that is something that a shop like this can NOT do, then it is simply something that they can NOT do. There's a right and a wrong way to do things.Right way: "I'm sorry, but because it's labor only and a small job at that, I just don't think we'd be the right choice for you."Wrong way: "Ok, y'know what? Just call another shop, HAVE A GOOD DAY"They may do great work, but they need to manicure their customer service, even if they have been working there for "20 to 25 years," they really need a good coaching.
Sadiq Gill
10 years ago
These folks have worked on several of the cars that I own (and have owned). I know a decent amount about automobiles and would probably be a difficult "mark" I feel like I always get the honest answer and the best answer. When necessary, these folks have gone to the added effort of taking their own time to special order parts in order to save me money. These folks will always have my business.
Brian Russo
5 years ago
Doug and Michelle are absolute legends! Had an issue installing an aftermarket steering wheel and doug found time to help me out even tho it was later in the day. Good banter and great work!
Teddy s Tarot Den
7 years ago
Called just to get info the lady was over talking me and didn't want to listen to what I was saying and then told me it wouldn't be fixed til next week....To also mention $45-$90 just to diagnose a vehicle not including what has to be done is outright crazy. Yea I don't recommend these folks
Evan McArdle
4 years ago
Doug and Michelle are awesome people who do fantastic work. Highly recommended!!