The Mechanic OC

John

★★★★★

a year ago

TLDR: Exceptional service at The Mechanic OC. Nestor provided transparent, thorough explanations and used technology effectively to educate about necessary repairs. Car runs like new after service. Highly recommend for their honesty, expertise, and customer-focused approach. I recently had my 13-year-old car serviced at The Mechanic OC, and I couldn't be more satisfied with the experience. The main reason I brought my car in was a high-pitched noise coming from the serpentine belt area, which persisted even after I had changed the belt myself. I also mentioned an issue with the ABS system. From the very first conversation, Nestor, the mechanic who worked on my car, explained the process thoroughly. He promised to provide a detailed report of every finding, followed by an estimate. True to his word, when it came time to discuss the findings, Nestor called me with a comprehensive report. He went through each issue individually, from most urgent to least urgent, describing the price of the work and explaining why certain repairs were urgent while others could wait. What set Nestor apart from other mechanics I've worked with was his transparency about the urgency of repairs and his sincere approach. I felt very comfortable with all his suggestions because I sensed he was looking out for my best interests. There was no heavy sales approach, just genuine communication. The report Nestor provided was crucial in explaining my car's status and what needed to be repaired. It included instructional videos about the importance of each repair, along with photos and videos of the actual parts of the car that needed attention. For example, they discovered a leak in the power steering system, specifically in one of the hoses. Nestor recorded a video showing exactly where the leak was coming from. This appropriate use of technology, combined with Nestor's approachable personality, greatly enhanced the communication about necessary repairs and helped educate me about my car's needs. At one point, Nestor called about an additional finding - an oil leak they discovered after cleaning the engine. When I mentioned I was with family, he kindly told me to enjoy time with my loved ones and that he'd wait for my call back when I was available. This considerate approach quickly earned my trust. Diana at the front desk was also helpful throughout the process. The entire team at The Mechanic OC made me feel valued as a customer and educated about my car's needs. After the repairs were completed, my car has never driven better. It feels like a brand new vehicle, despite its age. I'm so impressed that I've already recommended The Mechanic OC to multiple family members and friends. I'll be returning soon to have my other car serviced as well. I feel I've found a dependable mechanic in Nestor and The Mechanic OC. Their thorough explanations, transparent communication, and quality work have made me a loyal customer.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Susie Lee

★★★★★

Edited a year ago

My experience with The Mechanic OC was great! I was looking to have my transmission fluid changed so I reached out via Yelp for a quote. Nestor responded quickly and was extremely professional and personable. He patiently answered all of my questions and was transparent in his responses. When I got to the shop, he personally came and greeted me. I asked for a written quote that specifically included all the details of the service which they graciously provided. The receptionist was also extremely kind and patiently answered all my questions. My favorite thing about The Mechanic OC is how organized and thorough they are! They send you a link that takes you to a whole inspection report that includes details and pictures of various services that you may need. I especially appreciated that Nestor was honest about which tasks were more urgent and which could be held off until the next visit. Most shops would just give you a list of problems and tell you to fix them asap but not Nestor! I never felt pressured or ridiculed into paying for more services to be done on my car. They make the process of approving or declining the other services really easy by sending you a link where you can just check a box that says "approve" or "decline." Lastly, I really appreciated that they washed the interior and exterior of my car. Such service! Their prices are also very reasonable. My car runs so smoothly now, you can hardly feel the gears shifting! Overall I'm very pleased with the professionalism demonstrated by Nestor and his team. I feel relieved to have found an honest, trustworthy, reliable mechanic. I will definitely be returning to The Mechanic OC for all my car needs!

Dee

★★★★★

a year ago

Excellent service from start to finish! I needed an oil change and inspection. I called and got an appt right away. Answered all my questions. Highly recommend!!

Mark V

★★★★★

a year ago

These guys are great! My truck broke down 5 buildings down from my job and I had it towed to The Mechanic OC. They diagnosed the problem and found out my fuel pump went out. They did a really good job replacing it and other issues i had with my truck. I thought it was really cool the way they diagnosed the problems and how the procedure was really easy and different from the other mechanic shops I've been to. I want to thank the front desk staff who helped me out. They were very helpful on pricing and what repairs my truck needed. The mechanics here are awesome and the trucks running great!

Andy Fankhauser

★★★★★

a year ago

Excellent service and customer care. From the confirmation call to the owner, Nestor, taking time to talk to me and make sure I’m satisfied, all around a great experience. The vacuum and car wash were a nice touch too.

Christina Walker

★★★☆☆

10 months ago

My initial visit for an oil change here went smoothly and I was very happy with the level of service provided as well as the car wash. I was so impressed, I decided to bring in my car for new brakes and rotors a couple of months later. This service is where I'd recommend for potential customers to look elsewhere. I took in my car (midsize SUV) and paid $1700 for new brakes and rotors (front and rear) as advised by the mechanics. After I took the car home, I noticed the brakes were squeeking. I gave it a couple of days, but the noise got progressively worse so I called them and they asked me to bring it back in. They ended up adding more lubricant to the brakes to fix the squeeking. I drive home and notice the squeeking persisted at different speeds particularly low speeds. I called after another week and they asked me to bring the car back in for a third time. I took it in that third time and they said they had replaced the brakes under warranty. I took the car home and noticed the front brakes kept squeeking. I called them and verified that they in fact only replaced the rear brakes because they didn't notice squeeking from the front as they test drove it themselves. I insisted that I return to test drive the car with the mechanic to show them the exact noise I was hearing. So we did that on my FOURTH visit and they agreed that all the brakes should be replaced under warranty (front and rear again). After this fourth visit, new brakes front and rear, I still have squeeking brakes! It is definitely better than it was, but my whole neighborhood can hear me parking every day and now the noise seems worse when reversing. I've never had an issue like this before and have given up taking my car in as it is my family vehicle (we only have one) so scheduling for the car to be out a whole day for a fifth time is simply ridiculous. I've had to navigate carpooling my kids for this ordeal and am frustrated that on 4 different visits, the issue was not resolved.

Mahin Homaizad

★★★★★

11 months ago

A family member referred me to this mechanic shop. I got an oil change, an inspection, and they even washed my car. The staff was very friendly and professional. They gave me a very helpful report to show what issues need to be fixed on my car. I was very happy with their service.

Nick Baronessa

★★★★★

a year ago

I was recommended to come here after going to two different dealerships that couldn't figure out what was going on with my car. I took it to Nestor and his shop and they figured out the problem within a day. They were honest and gave me a good price. They went to work really quick and got my car fixed up and running within a few days. I would definitely recommend anyone to come here. They did a great job and I will be coming back for any car issues going forward.

Nushaw Ghofranian

★★★★★

a year ago

Nestor and the entire team The Mechanic OC are my heroes!!! My check engine light came on and I thought it was a small issue but it turned out to be a huge deal. Nestor was so thorough and helpful during a pretty stressful situation. He explained everything in so much detail and he brought my Jeep Wrangler back to life the same day I brought my car in!! The most trustworthy, honest and helpful mechanic I’ve ever been to. Especially since I’m a girl and don’t know anything about cars, I always know I can’t count on The Mechanic OC to have my back!! DO NOT GO ANYWHERE ELSE!! BEST TEAM ON THE PLANET!!!

Diane St. John

★★★★★

a year ago

Great experience with Nestor and the office staff. Easy to make an appointment, excellent communication, everything done well and efficiently. They send you a written estimate that is very complete, with photos of your car parts and videos and a detailed description of their findings and recommendations. In the follow up phone call, Nestor explained everything perfectly and answered all my questions. My car was washed and vacuumed before I picked it up. I have a little Kia hatchback, nothing fancy, but I chose it with care and I love it, and Nestor seems to get that about cars - that we all love our cars and they are sort of an extension of ourselves. He said his goal is to take care of all the cars brought to him so they can reach 200,000 miles in good shape 😀. Highly recommend this business.

Angie Hanna

★★★★★

8 months ago

Stopped by unannounced on a Monday morning, and they were able to accommodate me with kindness and thorough explanations for required repairs. Cost was fair, front desk was extremely friendly and communicative, and the work was done quickly. Definitely will be using this mechanic for all future needs!

Anita Santarelli

★☆☆☆☆

2 months ago

$166 for an oil change and tire rotation is completely ludicrous. They might be great mechanics, but they’re running a scam on oil changes.

Masaru Yohena

★★★★★

3 months ago

For Sale Auto Repair Shop 51 Auto Center Dr Irvine CA; Price: $45000; Space: 2450 SF, Ceiling height:20 FT Including: Alignment Bend pack Rack. W computer + Lift . Tire Machine Hunter,Balancer Snap on, Tig Welder Lincoln, MIG Welder Snap on, Mill Machine, Brake Lathe, PlasmaCutter, Snap on AC, Snap on Matching, Mini Lift, Hoist Inground, 2 Post Lift

Brandon Williams

★★★★★

a year ago

They are top-notch! Nestor and the office staff have awesome customer service and are very personable. Their process is incredibly efficient, after dropping off my car, I received a detailed text with pictures and notes on recommended work, making everything completely transparent. The mechanic was honest about what was needed and what could wait, which I really appreciated. You can tell they genuinely care about their customers and the quality of their work. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a reliable, trust worthy mechanic!

John Christian de Leon

★★★★★

7 months ago

These guys are the real deal. I have a 2012 Beetle. 2 mysterious oil leaks previously worked on by another mechanic 2x in the area over several years, will remain un named.. The problem still persists. The car was sitting in my driveway as it wasn't needed. That is until my daughter started driving. Now it's an emergency fix or a new car. I decided to reach out to The Mechanic OC for help. I wish I had found them sooner. They immediately found the 2 leaks and offered me a prompt service plan, with pictures identifying the issues and problems. After fixing the car, which they also cleaned as well, she's been driving and everything is running smooth and perfect, with a warranty to boot. If you have a car that needs help, yet are reluctant to tackle the issue because of not knowing who to trust, look no further. Pick up your phone and call The Mechanic OC. They're real and real good at what they do. You won't be sorry.

Brent Rudmann

★★★★★

6 months ago

I take my BMW here every year for the annual range extender oil change needed for the i3. always reasonably priced very polite and they explain everything with options so the car owner can make the best decision about what to do and when to do it. Way better than going to the dealer for sure!

Brandin Tamayo

★★★★★

2 years ago

By far some of the nicest mechanics I’ve ever had for work with. Went from what we thought was a simple fix to full catastrophic failure but these guys are amazing. Nestor walked me thru every step of the process sent me pictures with updates all the time. Very friendly staff. Couldn’t have asked for a better team. The best part, which is my main reason to recommend these guys, they gave me a realistic cost estimate prior to doing the work. We agreed to it and then once everything was said and done, they were able to deliver exceptional service and get that price down. My truck feels brand new again.