Alpha European Auto

Lorri Silverman

★★★★★

a year ago

I brought my Mini in for an oil change. I was told it would be 1/12 hrs wait. Joaquin got the car done in 40 minutes! He is extremely nice and took care of me. I used to always take my car to the dealer but not anymore. I'm very happy to have found Alpha European Auto!

Dan Pham

★☆☆☆☆

a year ago

I initially took my Toyota 4Runner in for a starter issue, and they diagnosed the problem correctly, replacing the starter the same day, which was great. However, two weeks later, I started having trouble keeping the battery charged. It turned out to be a grounding issue, but they claimed it wasn’t their fault and pointed to "some broken piping" as the possible cause. They also mentioned this could be why my car was hesitating when I pressed the gas. On top of that, they charged me for the repairs. After this visit, the hesitation issue persisted. What’s frustrating is that my car had driven from Utah and back the same weekend before I brought it in for the starter repair, and it was running fine. The problems only started after they worked on it. I decided to take the car to my trusted Toyota expert in San Diego, and he immediately identified the issues. He explained that when removing the starter, the grounding should have been addressed first. He showed me how the mechanics likely did it incorrectly. Additionally, he pointed out that a hose from the intake to the engine—located right above the starter—was missing. They had left it exposed, allowing me to drive around like that, and lied about the "broken piping." My mechanic laughed and said, "That’s Vista for you." On top of all this, the original mechanic had told me to drive it for a few miles and if the issues persisted, to bring it back for further diagnosis—but warned it would cost me more money. Turns out, the problems were caused by their mistakes all along. It’s incredibly frustrating to think they expected me to pay even more to fix issues they created. I’m honestly baffled at how this place has so many good, honest reviews. My experience was far from satisfactory, and their work caused more problems than it solved.

Holly Krumsick

★★★★★

10 months ago

Under promised and over delivered! I took my Prius in for a head gasket repair. Originally was told it would take around 3-4 weeks. Well this team got it done just over a week and it was $1,000 LESS than they originally quoted. It feels good to find a trust worthy mechanic. The only place I’ll be taking my cars.

Thomas W

★★★★★

a year ago

I was in town to pick up a vehicle at a dealership and this mechanic came up on the Carfax report. I had some questions regarding vehicle history and the shop was able to tell me what I needed and also provide some critical information that reassured me that I was making the right purchasing decision on this vehicle. They spent at least 10 minutes on the phone with me, without expecting anything in return. I'd definitely feel comfortable taking my car here if I lived in CA.

Daniel Garcia

★★★★★

2 years ago

I recently had my car inspected at a Ford dealership, and they provided me with a long list of problems that needed to be addressed. Seeking a second opinion, I took my car to Alpha European Auto, where I was impressed by Joaquin's professionalism and thoroughness in diagnosing the issues. He not only identified the actual problem but also prioritized the necessary repairs. The service was completed in a timely manner, and his pricing was reasonable. Overall, I was delighted with my experience at Alpha European Auto.

Lindsay Mendez

★★★★★

3 years ago

Chose to go with Alpha European auto after getting quoted $2000 more at the dealership. Joaquin did an awesome job from start to finish, kept us informed and even showed us the old parts he replaced before leaving. He made sure we didn’t have any questions before leaving and even gave me some advice on a future repair which he didn’t have to do. This is the best and most honest experience I’ve ever had with an auto repair shop. 10 out of 10 recommend this shop! We will be back if we need any work done to our car!

Jorge Varela

★★★★★

3 years ago

I highly recommend this repair shop for all your needs. I called and asked for a diagnostic fee for my 2014 Mercedes and was quoted $110. I had my car towed in to this shop for diagnostics. Shortly later that day Joaquin called me with bad news. He couldn’t fix my car due to not having a license to purchase and install the steering lock module. He advised that I had to take my car to the dealer or another repair shop in Escondido. I asked him how much I owe for his time and diagnosis of my car? He told me don’t worry about it and wouldn’t take my money. What a class act! Most repair shops would be thinking how they can up charge the diagnostics and soak my wallet. I am a repeat customer and have always been satisfied with the repairs and the price charged. You will not find a shop with better integrity and quality of work. I would give 10 stars if I could.

Anthony Cardenas

★★★★★

a year ago

Hands down top tier one of the most genuine Mechanics Joaquin. I highly recommend him, I stopped by in the afternoon and he was able to check out my BMW real quick and give me some great advice which helped saved a lot of time and money. Much appreciated 🙌

Tyler Vorwerk

★★★★★

10 months ago

Joaquin and his staff are always transparent with services needed and pricing. I would give more than 5 stars if possible. My go-to mechanic! Highly recommend!

P L

★★★★★

10 years ago

Frank and Amy and the rest of group are wonderful! Frank is not only honest, but so friendly and helpful. I tried many other German Auto places in North County including my Porsche dealership/service and none of them compare to the care and service from Alpha European Auto. I recommend all my friends with German cars to see Frank, even if it's for a consultation or 2nd opinion. My recent work with Frank and Alpha European Auto was major maintenance work. He got the big job done within a couple days when I know it would have taken at least 2 weeks at other places. Thank you again, Frank!

Nick M

★★★★★

a year ago

Joaquin is awesome -- he is honest, trustworthy and goes above and beyond. Everything I hoped for in a car repair that had more than it's share of logistic complications (NOT caused by Alpha European). Would come back!

Diane Joyce

★★★★★

10 years ago

I've brought my car to Alpha European Auto for a number of years. From the very first experience, Frank, the owner was extremely honest, He didn't know me, but helped me make a decision as to whether or not to purchase a specific vehicle. I have never been to a shop where they supply a car for you to drive while yours is being worked on. The quality of his work is unsurpassed. His office staff is very friendly, efficient and knowledgeable. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this establishment. This is the only place I will continue to bring my car,

Diana Spencer

★★★★★

7 years ago

I've been to Alpha Auto several times this year (bought a $1500 VW beetle without getting any sort of mechanic check first.... my fault!). Every time I've been by Frank and Joaquin have been able to help and get me on the road quickly. They are incredibly fair priced, honest and efficient. I am new to San Diego area and am so glad I found these guys! Highly recommend!

Eddy Vasquez

★★★★★

4 years ago

If you are looking for an honest mechanic; you found him. Not only did he work with me and my time schedule, but he also answered all my questions. Even after hours. I went in dead set on a valve cover gasket repair but after a quick look he informed me that the gasket was fine, it was actually a different area that was the problem. He showed me where the problem area was and thoroughly explained to me the details of how and why. Great work, great price, and great timing. Id recommend him to anyone.

Philip Campbell

★★★★★

a year ago

I have not had work done here bc luckily I resolved my issue myself without the need to, but spoke to Joaquin and he gave helpful info on my car and good advisement. I wish I had taken my car here instead of where I had the prior diagnostic it seems like I would have gotten better info! Appreciate taking the time and giving good honest info without trying to force me in for an expensive diagnostic to answer my questions. Thanks!

Stephanie Earley

★★★★★

6 years ago

Friendly and professional. Joaquin and the guys at Alpha European Auto do great work and their honesty and help is greatly appreciated! They're more concerned with helping you as a customer and doing what's right. When I took my Audi in they found some underlying issues and helped me with deciding the best course of action for myself. Great guys. Will return for future servcing.

Eileen

★★★★★

4 years ago

Best mechanics in all of north county. Honest, hard working and customer service is real here! They saved me $1200.00 that a dealership was going to charge for stuff I didn’t need! A customer forever. It took a while to find ‘the one’ but never will I trust my car to anyone else.