About Business
Monterey Motors brings expert Car Repair solutions to the local community in Pacific Grove, CA, Seaside. From Auto repair shop, Brake shop, Chauffeur service to complex Car Repair projects, they maintain high standards of service quality. Local residents in Pacific Grove, CA appreciate their attention to detail, leading to a consistent 4.8/5 rating from 59 reviewers. By focusing on the specific requirements of the Pacific Grove, CA area, they have built a loyal following among local Car Repair customers. Explore their full range of Car Repair services and see why they are a preferred choice for customers across Pacific Grove, CA and beyond.
Google Reviews
Matthew “Shap” Shapard
★★★★★
3 years ago
Wonderful service. I came in for an oil change on my wife's car. My car was suffering from a weak battery, I was lent a jump-start device so I could drive it in to charge while the oil change was done. They even topped my oil off free of charge, and gave sound advice and evidence for what will be needed soon on both cars.
Mark Spencer
★★★★★
7 years ago
I found Monterey Motors while on a family vacation. Our check engine light had come on a few days prior, and our Sienna van was starting to occasionally stutter and show worrisome signs of mis-fires. Given we had a full-day drive home in a few days, we wanted to urgently solve the problem without compromising our vacation schedule. Monterey Motors was within walking distance of the Monterey Bay Aquarium, so we hoped they could check things out and find a resolution while we enjoyed the Aquarium. I pulled in, and after hearing about our situation, Greg immediately set everything aside to figure out how to help. He pulled Manny into the brainstorming session, and they pulled check engine codes and diagnostics within minutes of my arrival. They showed me the codes and analytics, and explained the dilemna we faced -- the code didn't identify which of 6 coils was faulty. Rather than recommend that we replace all 6 (including significant cost and labor), Greg suggested we clear the codes and try to trigger the same issue again. After I load tested the van by driving the van up and down hills, the check engine light came on again. Unfortunately, same generic coil code. In an amazing gesture, Greg then suggested that I take the code reader with me for the day/evening so that I could continue the experiment. He showed me how to use it, and committed shop time the next day to ensure that we got the problem resolved before our long drive home. He ordered all the potential parts we might need in advance to make sure the repair wasn't delayed, with the promise that we could return anything we didn't use. For the next 24 hours I continued trying to trigger a new code, but still only got the generic one. So after 15 minutes of generous brainstorming with Greg on scenarios and options, we ultimately elected to replace the front 3 coils and spark plugs. He let me keep the old ones so that we'd have 3 working coils/plugs in the event we found out later that we had guessed wrong. He spent 20 minutes on a test drive to make sure the repair worked, and that the engine stopped stuttering and the check engine light did not come back on. We made it back home after 12 hours without issue, and the car continues to run great. I was amazed when I even got a follow-up call from Greg to make sure we got home okay (who does that!?!?) The repairs, parts, and attention far exceeded the minimal cost of the work done. Greg is a tribute to the legacy of a classic corner mechanic -- where the joy of solving a customer's problem is far more fulfilling than scoring an easy buck. Wish I lived in Monterey to go back again!
Roy Baum
★★★★★
3 years ago
Greg saved my day and didn't ask money for it! I was stuck with a car remote that didn't work, I was in a rush...Greg dropped everything he was doing and just helped me fix it and didn't ask any money for (I offered few times)... Super nice and trustworthy guy! You can trust these guys!
David Sheedy
★★
☆☆☆
7 years ago
I had called Greg an hour before the shop was closing on a Friday and he politely took my number and said he would call me right back after his discussion with a customer. Unfortunately, he never called back and I didn't hear back from him for the rest of the day; this was not a problem because I understand he is a very busy guy and was about to close shop. After not hearing from him over the weekend, nor Monday, I went in on Monday and talked to his employee, whom, took down ALL my information and said Greg would call me back because he was out on lunch, which is understandable once again but like before, I have yet to hear a peep and its frustrating because the reviews about this place are amazing and I want a piece of the cake and am willing to pay for their time and expertise! I can't comment on the work they do because I have yet to take my truck there but I am unbelievably dissatisfied with the fact that no phone call was issued back twice, and I even went out of my way to go in person. Very disappointing. Hopefully others have better luck!
Bob Aronson
★★★★★
3 years ago
Greg Donovan and his team have been performing reliable automobile diagnosis, maintenance, and repair for decades. They are very knowledgeable and take the time to fully explain what your car needs. I appreciate the clear snd honest approach to preventative maintenance that I can rely on.
Samuel Dimond
★★★★★
4 years ago
My car is ancient at this point and more of a project vehicle than anything else. Greg explained my options and helped me think about what to do with it. He was extremely generous with his time and very communicative. Highly recommended!
Simply Subaru's
★★★★★
6 years ago
I own a professional auto repair shop outside of Denver and my sister recently took her vehicle here. After several shops being unable to solve her issue Greg and Manny took the necessary steps to accurately diagnose and repair her issue. She then proceeded to drive across the country and had absolutely no issues. This is how a shop is supposed to be! Thanks for taking care of my sister and getting her and her fiancé across the country safe.
Xime GoC
★★★★★
9 years ago
I needed an oil change and this is place is close to home, Greg is accommodating and super nice and personable, he explained everything about the tests they did to my car and what his recommendations were, he also offered to send me a reminder for future jobs (since I'll most likely forget). I'm so glad I found this shop! I highly recommend!
Doug Goode
★★★★★
10 years ago
Best service I have ever had on cars! Top-notch mechanics. Greg is always willing to talk about your car and cars in general. They know all the ins-nouts on quality of parts from various manufacturers. I have used these guys for years - never a problem. They do thorough but never unnecessary work. Can't recommend them highly enough.
Brad Fairfax
★★★★★
13 years ago
This is a great shop - they are on another level compared to dealer service centers and other garages. Greg and Joe are both very straightforward about what your car needs now, and what it doesn't need now. We have two somewhat older cars, and after taking them to Monterey Motors I have a clear understanding of what kind of shape both are in, and what type of repairs to expect in the future. Aside from the outstanding professionalism, the entire staff at the shop is friendly and welcoming. All that, plus the turnaround time for service is super quick. You really can't go wrong here.
Connor Lamp
★★★★★
2 years ago
One of the best auto shop experiences I have ever had. Came here right before they closed with a check engine light on. They stayed almost an hour after they should have closed helping me troubleshoot the problem. Could not have been nicer or more knowledgeable. If I lived in Monterey I would be a customer for life.
Ginny Roggeman
★★★★★
Edited 7 years ago
Greg is an excellent mechanic and I trust Monterey Motors 100 percent to service all our vehicle needs. Greg is honest, trustworthy and fair. I am so lucky to have found such a reputable local business in our area. Thank You Greg, for your outstanding service!
Mike Sperry
★★★★★
Edited 3 years ago
5 years later, I had to get the van smogged and it needed a lot of work to pass. Greg & his team again did an outstanding job. Worth every penny! I highly recommend Monterey Motors! -- Honest appraisals of work & fast turnaround. It's good to have a shop in town that you can depend on! Thanks Greg & Team!
Oscar Morales
★★★★★
3 years ago
My wife’s car needed to be towed to a shop and needed some transmission work. I found this shop on google and called after hours and Greg answered the phone. I was shocked because I thought I was going to have to leave a message. I explained what happened and he calmly said “bring it in around noon tomorrow. I’ll save you a spot for you and the tow truck” best decision I made was picking this shop. Manny and Greg fixed the problem. I didn’t need a brand new transmission. Greg also did an inspection of the breaks, tires, and basic fluids. Professional A+ service from both him and Manny. I would come here again for the great service. Thanks fellas!
Adam Merry
★★★★★
10 years ago
This is a great shop. Greg has a great personality and is always happy to explain the reasoning behind his recommendation. My family and I have been taking our cars to him for years and he keeps them running well! He is also great at accessing the return on investment when considering which repairs to perform on an older car. He has also advised me on multiple occasions when I have been deciding which used car to purchase and he is extremely knowledgeable and really cares about helping people make the right decisions when it comes to their cars. This is my go-to auto shop and I can't recommend it enough!
Minsung Kim
★★★★★
2 years ago
Very kind, honest, thoughtful My car made whine sounds for two days which was from the alternator and didn't start on last Friday. I called this shop and communicated with Greg. According to the Greg's advice, I towed my car to the shop at cost of my insurance company (roadside assistance). Greg replaced my alternator and provided many helpful recommendation on my car. I will visit this shop again whenever I have any issue with my car. I will change oil here next time because my car is getting older and need extra preventive checks. Thanks, Greg.
Anne Allen
★★★★★
6 years ago
This place in incredible. Greg and his staff truly care about their customers. My check engine light came on just days before I was scheduled to leave on a cross country road trip. Greg and Manny came to my rescue and were amazing to work. Greg prioritized the work, and they spent time diagnosing the issue and test driving to make sure the problem was taken care of for my long journey. Greg always made sure to communicate and discuss all of our options on a daily basis. I can't thank them enough for the unique, caring experience provided to make sure I was safe. The car works just great. It was a pleasure to work with such friendly and smart staff. Thanks so much!
Tom
★★★★★
6 years ago
Finding Monterey Motors was a godsend for me after coming to the Monterey area. I love my car and I want a mechanic that will treat my vehicle with the respect they show their own. Greg and Manny (sp?) at Monterey Motors are among the best of the best at what they do and it really shows itself in their work. They are very transparent with that they're going to do, how it's priced out, why they're doing it, and honest in every way. This is not your typical 'go in for a tire rotation and get told you need five air filters, a new transmission, and blinker fluid' kind of place. On top of their honesty and fantastic work, they are willing and capable of working with aftermarket parts. If you want to spend the money to get some extra work done on your car, such as a new exhaust, downpipe, frontpipe, maybe a spoiler or underlighting, whatever you want, they'll be more than happy to give it a shot and give you a good deal at the same time. If you love your car, don't risk going anywhere else in this area.
Demsy YouTube
★★★★★
11 months ago
While on vacation in Monterey, my Honda Odyssey car broke down and had to be towed to Monterey Motor. I had a great experience getting it fixed there. I called Greg as soon as it happened, and he was very polite and welcoming. He gave me a spot to drop off the car and got started on the repair right away. They replaced my alternator, charged the battery, and had everything done the same day—so I was able to drive home safely. I really appreciate the fast and professional service. Thank you, Greg!
Sarah Cai
★★★★★
6 months ago
Thank you to Greg and Manny for providing a great experience. I was visiting Monterey from SF for a short 3-day conference and got a “check charge system” light on day 2. I brought my car in (Acura RDX) when the shop opened and they were able to get the battery, belt, and alternator replaced by the afternoon. Happy that I can drive home safely! As a woman who doesn’t know much about cars, I am always slightly anxious about being taken advantage of. I’m so glad I found this shop on Google. Greg was so knowledgeable and explained each issue and component to me. Great work and honest pricing- I’m only sad that I live far and can’t come here for regular maintenance work.
