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The Auto Doctor, proudly celebrates their 22nd year serving the North Shore! Just one block N of our former location. Located on the N side of Evanston just W of Green Bay Road, conveniently situated between the Central Street and Davis Street stations of the Chicago Northwestern train in Evanston, as well as the Noyes Street station for the Howard L line.
Reviews (30)
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Marina Cardenas
Jun 05, 2022
Extremely customer-service oriented - friendly, transparent, good value and and can always fit me in quickly. I appreciate theirs professionalism and they do great work.
Susan Alterman
May 28, 2022
I could not have been happier with the service that I received at Rolf's Auto Doctor. When the part was not immediately available to fix my air conditioning, I was offered the use of the loaner car for the duration of the wait. One week later the part arrived and my car was then fixed immediately. My AC now works perfectly, and I was never without a car. Talk about service!
Richard Owen
May 13, 2022
I started with tired and now I rely on them for both our cars. Nice group of people and reliable too. Thanks for everything.
Barbara Blough
Jan 12, 2022
Get comfortable, because I have a story to tell! I have been a consistent customer of Rolf's on Dempster in Evanston, IL, for over 20 years. I was not aware of the change in ownership this spring, so when I brought my car in the first time, I was naturally apprehensive. But I needn't have worried. I received excellent advice and the same reliable service I had grown to take for granted from Rolf's. THEN, this fall, when I stopped by to see if they could do the factory recall on my 2016 VW Jetta, they referred me to the dealership because the dealership would be authorized to do it for free.

I thanked them and went to the dealership. When the recall service was completed, the dealership told me that an additional repair should be completed as soon as possible. They gave me a written estimate of over $700 dollars for a part they called (in writing) a "Hockey Pop." I called the folks at Rolf's Auto Doctor to see what they would have to say about this.

Of course they asked me to bring the car in. When I came in, I showed them the estimate from the dealership, and everyone laughed. They then told me that when I called and told them about the "Hockey Pop" they all thought I was a bit of a nut job. There IS no part called a "Hockey Pop." But there it was in writing! Well, of course the actual part is NOT called a Hockey Pop.

It's a rubber gasket on the front wheel arm. The part is small and not made of 24 carrot gold, only rubber. The cost is all about the time and labor it takes to replace this very small piece of rubber. The thing is, if you replace the whole arm - in fact, if you replace BOTH arms (right and left side of the car, which is a good idea since if one has gone bad, the other is probably not in great shape either) - it can cost you LESS.

This is what Rolf's Auto Doctor guys took the time to show and explained to me. The repair was absolutely necessary. Both shops were correct as far as THAT went. But the solution to the problem AND MY SAFETY were SOOOO much better addressed by the folks at Rolf's Auto Doctor. DEALERSHIP: Well over $700 for a single rubber gasket, the crack in the wheel arm (did I mention that? Rolf's Auto Doctor did) was NOT even mentioned. ROLF'S AUTO DOCTOR: Also over $700, but for TWO brand new whole wheel arm assemblies. Who would YOU do business with?
Doug M.
Dec 20, 2021
I contacted Auto Doctor to look at my daughters car in Evanston, from Charlotte NC. They could not have been more fair, accommodating and responsive. Highly recommend
Maya M.
Nov 22, 2021
They are HORRIBLE! We paid them $900 and they did NOTHING to fix the air conditioning to our car. Then they wanted to charge us $1500 for a new compressor. Why couldn't they tell us that to begin with after charging us $900 already? NEVER AGAIN. they just took our money and didn't fix ANYTHING!
Kristie Walstrum
Aug 21, 2021
We had a great experience with the team. We brought our van with a battery draining issue. Upon drop off they did a quick test to determine the battery and alternator were not the issue, so they would have to do some digging. When I learned of a suggestion from a dealer about a potential source of the issue, the team went back and was able to fix the issue and saved me a trip to the dealer and got me out the door same day with the issue solved. I appreciate their work and will be back.
Jeremy Wrenn
Aug 07, 2021
Won't be going back. My experience with them before their move/merger was a better one. Took my Jeep in and explained that my brakes were squeaking. Brought it in at 7:30 AM as discussed. Had to call around 2 PM after I hadn't heard anything, and they hadn't looked at it yet. Turns out I needed new rear brakes, but my Jeep wouldn't be done that day. Picked it up the next day and.my brakes still squeaked. Made an appointment for the following Monday. Brought it in at 7:30 again.

Call near lunch time stated that the front brakes were still 50% but were what was causing the squeaking. They took them apart and lubricated them but that didn't fix it. I ended up having to have new rotors and pads installed, and now it seems my Jeep is squeak free. It took an overnight stay and 2 visits to get this all done, not to mention some arguing over the phone due to their staff not all being up to date on the progress.
Patricia Cochran
Aug 06, 2021
I've been using the folks at Auto Doctor for years, before they joined forces with Rolf's. I've always had the best service, at best prices (much lower than a dealership!), and a discussion ahead of time about when needed service should be performed. I trust them entirely! Service: Tires
Valerie Yudell
Feb 27, 2021
I called Auto Doctor in a panic after my car did not pass it's emissions test and it was almost the end of the month. They got me in the next morning and said they would do their best to figure out what was causing the issue. They had it done and passed the test a few hours later. 10/10 I will be telling everyone to come to you! Thank you!
Ana Mari
Dec 23, 2020
I went to Auto Dr. for the pre-winter check-up and oil change, which was due. I asked them to check everything (including my brakes) to see car's condition. They checked everything and changed my oil and told me I do not need the Transmission Flush or Power Steering Flush until Spring and brakes are in good condition, possibly due by then also. They are professional, honest, reliable, and friendly.

I opt to go to them over the car dealer for service because they are really good, have fair prices, and are honest. I have also been going there for years, as has my family. Once you go there repeatedly, you are like family to them! They will give you a loaner, as available, while the work is being done too. We need good businesses to survive during this COVID period and I am so relieved they are still there supporting their customers!
Pat Navin
Oct 04, 2020
The best in the business. Kent, Charlie and Wally are straight shooters and good folks. They've been servicing our vehicles for many years. If you need a trustworthy mechanic, Auto Doctor is the best you can get.
Georg S.
May 22, 2020
Excellent work and knowledgeable service. These guys are my go to shop. They have a lot of knowledge and do a great job on my Honda Fit. Always good to let me know about costs and future repairs down the road.
Lauren M.
Nov 21, 2019
Found this auto shop here on Yelp. It had great reviews so I went in without an appointment. They had the tire that my car needed. They were really quick with replacing the tire and only took about 25 minutes. They're very friendly. Definitely recommend!
Jk B.
Jun 04, 2019
My tire had a slow leak and I had no idea where to go. Thanks to a quick google search, I found The Auto Doctor just a 3-minute drive from home. They quickly removed the screw from my tread and patched the tire, and I was on the way to work in a half hour. Super friendly and easy to work with - highly recommend!
Angela N.
Mar 31, 2019
I really am thankful to these guys for helping me out big time last week when my sliding car door decided to unexpectantly break at the car wash up the street. I was afraid to drive too far with the door not shutting. Luckily, I got to their shop. They were so nice and incredibly helpful taking care of my car situation. Since I was stranded, one of the guys dropped me back off at my house so I didn't have to uber.

That was so nice. It took about a day to get it back to working like it used to. They explained to me the mechanics of how the door operated and what parts were needed to remedy my inoperable door. The gave me a breakdown of the cost of parts and labor and I felt certain they were being honest and upfront with me about it all, not overcharging me. Well, I think if I needed to get something else done to my car I would go there. They were all very helpful and pleasant to deal with. I'm happy I found them!
Jason S.
Nov 30, 2018
I had a positive first-time experience at Auto Doctor. One suggestion for improvement is to make signage more clear where to park.
F. L.
Apr 22, 2018
Just a warning, if you failed your emissions testing and go here, be aware that they will charge you to fix it AND to take it back to the emissions testing to ensure it passes. When I asked if I can just take it myself they said that wasn't an option because apparently some people leave their gas tank open which results in a fail. They said "that's the state's rules", but when I called the IllinoisAirTeam they said of course I can take it back myself. Also, the cost to bring it back was "included" already so I couldn't NOT be charged for that.?

The total was going to be $500 to change the oil separator + labor + the cost to take it back to get tested. So I said no thanks, but they still charged me for the "diagnostic workup" which was $173 just to tell me what may have been wrong with it?
Teal R.
Sep 15, 2016
Started servicing my vehicle here about two years ago. After moving to Chicago, I wanted to find a friendly hometown shop that would provide great service. My vehicle has been here numerous times for different instances and I can say without a doubt that the team here is great.
Robin R.
Sep 12, 2016
I decided to try the Auto Doctor for tires, brakes and an oil change. I couldn't have been happier with the service. I had my car back quickly and the price was reasonable. I will definitely use them again.
Mary T.
Jun 08, 2016
I've been taking my cars to the Auto Doctor for over 20 years! Charlie, Ken and Wally are extremely knowledgable mechanics (as are their staff), intelligent business owners and are truly trustworthy! They even have loner cars if you need to leave yours in the shop for an extended period. I highly recommend them.
James L.
Nov 06, 2015
This business is an Evanston treasure. We have been going to Auto Doctor for more than 20 years because of their wonderful service. Charlie, Kent, and Wally are attentive, honest, and pragmatic. Try them! You won't be disappointed.
Rachel T.
Aug 23, 2015
These guys are fabulous - They have worked on several cars of mine and friends and always been quite helpful. If its busy they tell you and if you are willing to ask questions they are willing to sit and explain everything in detail - something I have always appreciated. Also ast time I had tires but on a car they reccomended the Continentals they sell and while i ahd some sticker shock at the price I did it anyway - - - and I could not have been happier I drove frequently long trips in terrible weather and the tires performed great - i don't think I have ever been happier that I was convinced to spend more money on my car:
Tom O.
Aug 19, 2014
I'm a long time Evanston resident with a few cars that are off warranty. My biggest pet peeve in getting them worked on is that the shop ALWAYS seems to find more work to do than expected. I tried The Auto Doctor on a friend's recommendation, and let me tell you I was impressed. There were three things that the car needed - and exhaust/muffler problem, some ominous clunking from the rear wheels on sharp turns, and a really soft brake pedal.

I was thinking new exhaust/muffler, new front brakes (at least) and new wheel bearing(s) for the rear. Turns out the exhaust problem was simple. The gasket between the engine and the exhaust was shot, and the flange that connects the exhaust to the engine badly corroded. Instead of installing a new exhaust & muffler they replaced the gasket, and build a new flange to connect to the rest of the exhaust.

The clunking in the rear was just low differential fluid, and the brakes turned out to be fine - just needed minor adjustment. When was the last time you went in to a shop with similar issues - as listed above - and walked out only $266 lighter? Most shops would at least have done a front brake job and replaced MUCH MORE of the exhaust system. The will do the work that needs to be done but not more. (Also, they got me in and out in 1 day.) Thanks The Auto Doctor!
Jenn P.
Jun 14, 2014
The best car guys I know! A friend of mine has taken his Hondas here for over 20 years, so when I needed a new mechanic, I gave them a try. Now I wouldn't go anywhere else! The guys are great--funny, helpful, friendly--and Hoover the dog will happily fetch a tennis ball for you while you wait.
Eric D.
Dec 27, 2011
I've been taking first our Civic and Passat here for about 10 years. They have made a couple of mistakes along the way (such as putting in the wrong radiator fluid), but they have always been quick to fix the problem. I always feel like I'm treated fairly and they're not doing unnecessary work. The prices are comparable to the other independent repair shops I've used, and definitely cheaper than the dealers. Plus, Kent are Charley are just great guys to chat with.
Robin K.
Aug 10, 2011
These guys were quick! They were able to get me in the same day, find out what was wrong (unfortunately it was my air compressor), order a new one and install it. All within about 7 hours! Kent was calm and helpful. While at times he glazed over things and moved a bit quickly for me as a car novice when asked questions he took the time to explain. AND after my online research raised questions and I brought them to him turned out he had already done all of the things that were suggested.

I felt like he was honest and fair. Overall, I made out for about $1200 on the repairs when most people online were saying they got the same problem on a Mazda 3 fixed for $1500-1600. I'm POSITIVE Autobarn (note I really don't like them) would have been WAY more. Thanks Auto Doctor!
Rev Marian H.
May 18, 2010
These guys are the best! They've been taking wonderful care of my cars for over a dozen years now -- with accurate estimates, honesty and their quirky senses of humor. I actually look forward to oil changes and getting my car serviced! They even assisted me with my last car purchase, and it's purring along beautifully. You can't go wrong with Kent and Charlie and Wally (and all the other guys) at The Auto Doctor.
Judy M.
Mar 16, 2009
After my clutch crapped out in the middle of Foster, when the AAA lady asked where I wanted it towed, since I don't have a mechanic I arbitrarily picked the Auto Doctor. I am so glad I did. Amazingly, someone was still there at 7:30 at night doing paperwork, even though they closed at 5:30. I lucked out with that one. I explained what happened and he quickly figured out the problem, said I would probably need either a new master or slave for my hydraulic clutch, and not a whole new clutch, and said they'd call with an estimate in the morning.

It turned out I needed a new slave cylinder, which was the less expensive of the two cylinders. When Kent called me in the morning with the estimate it was less than I expected, and I elected to get an oil change and fix a leaky tire at the same time. I told him I planned on selling the car in the winter, and he didn't try to up-sell me or try to convince me I needed extra work done. The work was done fast, and when I came in to pay, the total was about $100 less than the estimate, both are always a good thing.
Brent J.
Apr 12, 2008
I'm a big fan of my long-time mechanic Bob Woyner, who joined Auto Doctor in the past year or so. He has serviced my cars (a Jeep, a minivan, a Miata, and an Infiniti) for over 10 years. He always leaves me confident that he knows his stuff and that he is treating me fairly. On several occasions he has recommended less expensive remedies than I had expected.

I give Bob himself five stars. There's nothing wrong with his place of employment either, but I can't give the overall establishment the highest rating for two reasons. First, it's not convenient to any public transportation I use. So when I drop off a car, I have to get picked up. (Auto Doctor does have a courtesy car, but using it is not as convenient as walking a few blocks to a train if I'm going downtown. Bob used to be more convenient to the Metra.) Second, the shop is not as clean and inviting as some auto repair places have become in recent years.

I don't mean to hold this against them, but grading on a curve means they slip just a notch. If you don't care about a repair shop looking like a repair shop, and if you can get a ride, I highly recommend Bob Woyner at Auto Doctor.