About Business
Conveniently located in Santa Cruz, CA, Specialized Auto Inc. has established a strong presence in the Car Repair market. They have specialized expertise in Auto repair shop, Auto air conditioning service, Auto spring shop, making them a top-choice Car Repair specialist in Santa Cruz. Backed by 924 satisfied customers, they currently hold a prestigious 4.8/5 star status on our platform. They take pride in serving the diverse needs of Santa Cruz, CA residents, offering personalized Car Repair solutions that make a difference. Whether it's a routine check or a complex Car Repair task, Specialized Auto Inc. is the go-to destination for quality and service in Santa Cruz, CA.
Google Reviews
Craig Simmons
★★★★★
3 weeks ago
Highly qualified professionals that cared about my car with an excellent manager. Larry took the time to move appointments around to take care of our car. Not many businesses would do that. Larry went out of his way to help me. That meant a great deal to myself and my wife. I would definitely recommend Specialized Auto to anyone who wants high-quality care for their vehicles.
Helen Landry
★★★★★
2 months ago
I had several issues with my car, and while the total repair cost was not small, Specialized Auto truly earned my trust. Their quotes were lower than other garages I checked, and I felt the value was absolutely there. What stood out most was the communication. They kept me informed every step of the way and explained exactly what was wrong, what needed to be done, and why. No pressure and no upselling, just clear and honest explanations. They went above and beyond to make sure everything was done right, and I never felt rushed or talked down to. It is rare to find a shop that combines fair pricing, transparency, and excellent customer service. I will absolutely be bringing my car here for all future maintenance and repairs.
Andrew Walsh
★
☆☆☆☆
2 months ago
My son had taken in his car for a full inspection and repair. They did a thorough job and replaced a lot of parts that were failing. That part was great and $3500 was paid. Not a problem. They kept the car for 10 days and the sun roof was leaking. The driver seat was sopping wet and mold was forming. My son got in the car and he got soaking wet. He showed the repair place the problem and they had moved the car after the big rain so we know that they knew. They told him they weren't an auto body place and to just use some Clorox wipes. The gauling part is that they told him it came in that way, which it definitely wasn't. They never put a tarp on it, put fans in it, or ask us what we wanted to do about it. Nothing and it got worse over those 10 days. When we called to discuss it and they said it was ready 8 days ago and it wasn't their fault, which was a complete lie. No contact, no responsibility, and outright lying. Absolutely no integrity. They did a good job on the repair but hope something like doesn't happen to you because they will not own their own screw up and it forced us to pay a $1k restoration. We will be filling a complaint against this place.
C M
★★★★★
2 months ago
Service is consistently and always top-notch. When they diagnose an issue it has always been spot on for me and my complex turbo diesels and audis. Even if I'm going to work myself on my car I go to these guys for a expert diagnosis. If they say they're going to get it done same day and have it back to you by end of day they always do. Their punctuality for how much volume they actually do is truly amazing. I'm very wary of mechanics and these guys have passed all my tests consistently. Not to mention after every service they will wash your car. On top of all that, they provide an Uber on them to get you home AND an Uber back to pick up your car. You seriously cannot ask for a better repair shop than these guys
Allen Siekman
★★★★★
3 months ago
Honest, competent and friendly care for my autos for over 30 years. I used to just take my various Volvos there but they have expanded the makes and models that they can service so I now also take my Toyota Tacoma for service at Specialized. I highly recommend them for your car service.
karryleena s
★★★★★
4 months ago
I was helped by Larry, who also did the inspection and oil change. He was really kind, and patient. Explained everything before servicing my vehicle and was clear after the service today about services that would be important to check the status of within 6 months. He again was clear about what is important to check within a specific time frame as well as what to be aware of that could indicate getting it checked sooner. He was specific about the treads in the tire and what is desired in dry weather, and also in wet weather. I felt he was absolutely honest about what was not to really be concerned about, unless it bothered me example the windshield wipers were slightly streaky. He said it didn't bother him but if it bothered me I might consider replacing them, but it was not anything needing immediate attention. I am happy with the service I received and am also feeling that this is not a place that tries to hustle people to get work done that is not needed. Sometimes this can be a problem at some shops. I believe this is a place that does not need to do that. They know excellent, honest quality work will bring them more autos to fix than they have hours in a day. Appointments are a good idea here. I encourage anyone who needs there vehicle serviced or Simply checked. This is a great place to do that. Larry is a Do Right Guy as I believe all their staff are. Thank you Larry and Specialized Auto for providing excellent and honest service for our community and to any visitors needing their car serviced or checked this IS the place to come to. Community members, if you didn't already know, Now You Do. This is the place to bring your auto. Five plus stars. An easy 10 but there is a five star limit.
William Allen
★★★★★
5 months ago
Larry at Specialized Auto was great to work with repairing my daughter’s truck. She is away at college on the west coast and it is sometimes hard to assist her from as far away as the east coast. However, car repair is never an issue due to my trust that Larry, and Specialized, will take care of us and make the required repairs at a reasonable cost. They are fair and trustworthy and it is great to work with them. Thanks Team Specialized.
marina fickel
★★★★★
3 months ago
My car died on me on my way home from work, and of course the week before Christmas. They took good care of me, had the parts in stock needed, and got my car back to me in 1 business day. Amazing. Thank you. This is why I remain a loyal customer.
Reed Frick
★★★★★
2 months ago
Great people, honest and high quality. Specialized stands by their work and treats you as a long-term customer. It’s always busy so you know they must be doing something right!
Rene Baker
★★★★★
6 months ago
I just moved to Santa Cruz and my neighbor highly recommended Specialized Auto. Now I know why. Paul was fantastic, professional and followed through on what he promised. Car was finished quickly and very reasonable cost. Even washed my car! Highly recommend.
Jayden Perry
★★
☆☆☆
3 months ago
I dropped my truck off Wednesday 11/19/2025. I spoke with my service advisor Michael, and he assured me that my truck would be well taken care of. I was extremely hopeful of my future experience, after going through reviews, and seeing the well organized shop. I brought my vehicle in, because of a slight tick that I’ve been hearing, accompanied by an intermittent misfire symptom. I just purchased this used Chevy Silverado from Santa Cruz motors, and was hoping to get a thorough diagnosis and repair any problems found with specialized auto. I was quoted for a 64 point inspection at my request, along with a diagnosis for the aforementioned symptom. I called a couple days later to check in and see what progress has been made in terms of diagnostic. I was told they’ve been busy and haven’t had much time to diagnose. I called the next day, and they told me they’ve been trying to diagnose with no luck. I called the next day, and they said they’d take a look in the morning, and that my truck was in the specialists booth. They told me they would most likely offer me a loaner vehicle, as I’ve been ubering too and from work for almost a full week at that point. I didn’t call that Tuesday because I didn’t want to seem pushy. They had my truck for 6 days at this point, so I was hoping to get a call with some information the following day. Wednesday came, and I called them only to find out they would be closed from 11/25/2025 - 12/1/2025. No notice, no loaner car, no update. Nothing. I waited for a call all day today (Monday 12/1/2025) I got nothing. I called them at 4:50, giving them the entire day, and hoping someone would be available to offer me an update before closing. A lady answered the phone, hurriedly put me on hold, and left me there until the line disconnected. I’m beyond furious. I’ve been nothing but patient, kind, and respectful. I’m not wealthy, i work 6 days a week, and I’m paying over $40 a day in uber fees just to get to work. It’s digging into the funds I’ve set aside for this repair. I’ve never been more upset with a shops service, considering how many good reviews they have, I expected better service. I’m extremely frustrated, and have nowhere to turn at this point besides leaving a review. I’m happy to take back my 2 stars, pending they make up for this atrocious behavior. I truly expected better from specialized auto. It would take a lot to turn this experience into 5 stars, but I like to give everyone a chance to turn things around. I will call tomorrow and update my review accordingly. I truly hope they can make up for this, as it seems like they offer great service to other customers.
Matt Guerrieri
★★★★★
a month ago
Every aspect of their service was as advertised, including the estimate and final bill. Service advisor Paul called when he said he would and explained everything very thoroughly. They’re my new service shop.
Nancy Eder
★★★★★
3 months ago
These guys are the best! I trust their advice and they've always done excellent work. Not a lot of waiting and a car washed a boot! Very happy with Specialized.!
Elaine Powell
★★★★★
a month ago
Excellent service. Very professional, and efficient. Had a SMOG check, quick and easy. I definitely will return for servicing of my vehicles.
Sherrye McCready
★★★★★
a month ago
Terrific 30,000 Lexus E350 service from scheduling to completion. My car is still under warranty but prefer to bring it to Specialized Auto over the Monterey Lexus dealership!
Don Erwin
★★★★★
3 months ago
Extremely thorough and communicative. Larry explained everything along the way and I felt very comfortable with the entire job. I have found my forever home for my car.
Rich B
★★★★★
6 months ago
Great experience with the Specialized Auto staff. Tyler was fantastic at accommodating my schedule and made sure my car was ready for pick up 30 minutes earlier than I requested. The included Uber service made the auto maintenance experience easy and convenient.
Michelle Wilczynski
★★★★★
11 months ago
Tyler was great! I've been coming into this trusted for years and have had consistently good service. At least 3 vehicles have been serviced here at one time or another. This time was an excellent experience. My car broke down on highway 17, i called on the way in. It was already um, a nightmare for me. When I arrived to specialized auto I was greeted by Tyler. As always, I felt reassured, I was in good hands. The price was very fair for all the work & he went above & beyond to make it affordable. I was updated promptly on what needed to be done & the timing. I'm very grateful that they provide a shuttle service.... As a single person, it's great to not have to hustle for a ride. Thanks so much for specialize auto & it's technicians for getting it all done! One more note, my car is twenty five years old and is not the easiest to deal with! DAZYBUG! My FABULOUS 2000 VW BUG is up and running! Full gratitude 🙏
John Kinnaman
★★★★★
4 months ago
I took our 2012 Volkswagen Beetle to Specialized Auto. They did a great job at a very reasonable price. They did the repair quickly with incredible customer service.
Diana Maassen
★★★★★
6 months ago
We had a great experience! We just moved to this area from a different state and needed to get the Smog test done for our vehicles. Customer service is top notch! Great service! We'll be coming back for other services as well.
