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Griffin's Auto Repair Chances are if your vehicle is in need of repair or scheduled maintenance, this simple outcome is what you're looking for. Though it shouldn't be so hard, finding reputable, fair-priced auto repair can be a real test of endurance and patience. With so many car repair shops competing for your business, where should you go for repair and regular maintenance of your car, truck or SUV?

Headquartered in downtown San Diego for more than 55+ years, Griffin's Auto Repair wants to roll out the symbolic red carpet to welcome you to its shop.
Services
In San Diego, many auto repair shops have come and gone in the more than the 57 years that Griffin's Auto Repair has remained in its Little Italy location. And while car styles, designs, mechanics, and technologies have changed considerable from those early days, many other things have stayed the same.
If you are shopping around for fair-priced and done-right car repair services, look no further than Griffin's Auto Repair in the Little Italy district in downtown San Diego. Proud to offer top-notch complete automotive repair services from the same location for more than 55+ years, Griffin's Auto is known for its neighborly feel and treat-you-just-like-family reputation.
Hot sunny days in Southern California require a smooth-running air conditioner for your vehicle. Yet auto air conditioning repair can be pricy depending on where you go. At Griffin's, auto AC repair doesn't have to be expensive. You can have a comfortable car ride without a dent in your wallet with our top-rated automotive AC repair.
Luxury car amenities such as heated and cooled leather seats, rear cameras, LED lighting, and a car that parks itself are all nice to have. But car owners on a budget might forgo the talking car to save some money. While there's nothing wrong with trying to save a buck, brake repair and service is one area drivers should never be stingy with.
Reviews (39)
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Ronald Corbin
Jun 20, 2022
These guys were outstanding, I made an appointment for 10 am by 12 noon my car was completed wit new brakes and rotors and the price was amazing compared to me taking it to the Mercedes dealer. Thanks guts for the awesome job.
Jorge Uvalle
Jun 19, 2022
Ive had these images, just never had the chance to share them. I had taken my car here as there was a maintenance advisory on my car which couldnt figure out how to fix and figured this place had expertise on Mercedes. Any way, they never fixed the problem, hoever they did some other maintenance such as replacing my rotors, pads and some other stuff.

A few days later after picking up my car from this place, I took my car to the car wash. I was in the process of washing my winsdshield and end up finding this. Turns out it is an engine mount.for my car. I emailed the place and up-to-this date-never got a response from them. Nothing. I understand stuff happens, but the problem is that this was never acknowledged by the manager or never reached out to me or my wife to try and do it right. Use at your own risk. SOUTHBAY AUTOHAUS ended up finding the issue with my car and fixed it.
Brittany Robbins
Jun 17, 2022
They replaced my brakes for a reasonable price. They did it in a timely manner. BHOWEVER. When they checked my fluids, they didn't put the coolant cap all the way back on. They said they would send someone as soon as they get off at 5. I am still waiting hours later. And I have to work tomorrow but my car is screwed. So thanks for that.
Cherry D.
Jun 06, 2022
I have brought my car in twice in the last six months. Each time they knock my socks off with kindness, knowledge and honestly. I overheard them tell a customer that he did not need the $800 service another shop told him he did, and even though he told them to go ahead and replace the parts anyway, they did not want to charge him for something he did not need. Wow!

My anticipated transmission problem was diagnosed as a curled floor mat pressing on the accelerator. I can't recommend them enough. And the snoring bulldog on the floor adds to the appeal.
Amy S.
Apr 06, 2022
They literally saved our vacation! Polite asf. and Carlos super in formative. We planned a trip from Montclair to Rosarito and my car ate shit. Took it there and they fixed it. Love them and god bless there business. Life saver to the max. Would recommend.
Keith H.
Mar 20, 2022
I recently purchased a Classic Car and was looking for a great Mechanic. After a few failures, I found Griffen's. I was looking for a good Mechanic but was also hoping for a well-run professional clean garage. Griffen's gave me the best of both. I have a great Service Manager and a fantastic Automotive Technician / Master Mechanic. I higher recommend Griffen's for any car repair new or old.
Chantal M.
Mar 19, 2022
I recently had my brakes replaced here and service was outstanding! Prices for services here are unbeatable and they take care of you in a timely manner. I will definitely be coming back for more services needed in the future!
LizaH
Feb 23, 2022
I will not go to any other mechanic repair shop, unless I need something done on a weekend since they are closed on weekends. I love the customer service and transparency with every experience. Service is always in good timing or what further needs to be done is always explained. I support local business 100%. Thank you everyone at Griffin's for all you do.
Samantha Ayoub
Feb 19, 2022
Very professional and willing to explain services that I do not know much about. I got a lot done with my car for an affordable price, and it was completed within a day. Happy I chose to go here, and will be bringing my car back for future inspections/problems. Thanks Griffins!
Tim Evans
Jan 09, 2022
Needed to replace my dying battery but didn't want to pay a fortune on installation, so I decided to give Griffin's a shot. My verdict: great, friendly service at a very attractive price. They got started on the installation at my appointed time and were done less than 30 minutes later. I am very satisfied with how they treated me and my car, and I will use them again in the future.
Gr X.
Dec 29, 2021
Unexpectedly needed a new alternator while on a daytrip to San Diego. Even though they were completely booked, they fit me in after I explained that I was from out of town and needed to get home. Very friendly, professional, quality service! Thank you!
Ryan C.
Dec 17, 2021
I'm giving them a bad review because they recommended Dieter's down the street because they were too busy. I completely understand as I was a walk in and they couldn't see my car for the next couple days. My problem is that Dieter's is absolutely horrible who have no idea how to fix cars. They only recommend because they get a cut. Disgrace.
Odineth Arroyo
Dec 15, 2021
I definitely recommend bringing your vehicle here, ever since i found Griffin's Auto Repair i haven't even looked for another place to bring my bug, they're so helpful, and very professional. I will still continue to bring my vehicles here even if i moved 3 hours away. Hands down the best shop I've ever been to. Thank you guys, for fixing my bug
Lorenzo A.
Dec 07, 2021
This place is the best for your car repair. I've done complete struts change and oil pump change for a day and it cost me 400 + for everything. I would say it is really good price. Super reliable place. The only thing for me is the location is not really convenient, but it is worth it.
Randa Alrais
Dec 06, 2021
I took my car for repair and Carlos did an amazing job replacing my alternator even when I treated him really rudely over the phone because I thought they did not fix it. I took my car to another mechanic to check the work, and they saw that the alternator was indeed fixed. I really appreciate how respectable, professional, and level headed he was over the phone. I ended up calling him and apologizing for doubting their work ethic. Thank you again Carlos for bring the bigger person!
Rhonda T.
Nov 29, 2021
I have been using Griffith Auto for my Hyundai service since moving downtown six years ago. I highly recommend them! I totally trust them! No scam service here. My 2012 car runs great! They are local, convenient and very pleasant to work with. Give them a try!
Christi M.
Nov 24, 2021
I am traveling in an 87 Westfalia Synchro. I recently purchased the vehicle and this is my first trip in it. On my way through San Francisco, I had a shop do a detailed inspection, and when they didn't have time to fix everything on their list, I started looking for a shop in San Diego that could have finish the work before I travel over the border to Mexico. Wow, did I score!

The team at Griffins is amazing! When I showed up, they had Jose verify the work the other shop had recommended. He gave me his honest assessment, and we did the critical items, but didn't bother with the stuff that really didn't need to be done at the moment. The shop let me order my own parts (which saved me about $500) and they were fast, complete, and so, so nice.

I wholeheartedly recommend this shop! If you have a VW, Jose is your man! He's worked on VW's for over 30 years and he knows them well. I feel so lucky to have found this shop and Jose. They are good people and will treat you right!
Dane
Nov 18, 2021
We had an amazing experience working with the team at Griffins Auto Repair. Carlos, Marcos, and Diego made us feel well taken care of and got our car fixed the same morning it arrived in their shop. No costly repairs or unnecessary up-charges, just honest and quick service. I couldn't recommend them more! Service: General repairs & maintenance
Donna G.
Nov 04, 2021
I take my Mini to Griffin's for maintenance. Marcos is always professional, upfront, and helpful, as are the others in the office. The mechanics here are top-notch and I trust them with my car. Services: General repairs & maintenance, Oil change
Emily R.
Oct 25, 2021
I had a minor issue with my windshield wiper fluid not spraying anymore. They flushed it out & checked the pump. After a day or two it wouldn't work again so I brought it back in. They did something similar & the same thing occurred-it stopped working again a day after they fixed it. They didn't charge me for the 2nd time. I brought it in a 3rd time and they tested the pump again and determined it was going bad.

They were able to fix it that same day & offered a great discount given that I'd had it in for the same issue previously. These guys are very efficient, very accommodating, and I'd recommend them.
Cara Bongiorni
Sep 22, 2021
I couldn't be happier with the services I received from Griffin's Auto Repair. They were extremely professional and explained everything in detail to me on the phone with the prices. Highly recommend! Services: Interior vacuuming, Electrical, General repairs & maintenance, Oil change
Matthew Mad Matt Walsh
Aug 17, 2021
Great service love the owner and the guys who work there. Very helpful and knowledgeable. You pay a premium price but you also get a premium work done there. I want someone who knows what there doing on my cars and these guys know what there doing.
Gary M.
Jul 13, 2021
Took my 2003 Eurovan here for an unexpected check engine light while traveling through San Diego. They got my vehicle in same day and it was ready to go the next day (after I threw in a transmission flush that I was planning to do anyways.) Happy with the experience and the fact that they have a technician who really knows VW vans!
AnaMarisa V.
Jul 05, 2021
I highly recommend Griffin's Auto Repair shop. I was so happy with their quality work on my MINI Cooper, their timeliness and especially their pricing! I saved 75% by having my car repaired at Griffin's, rather than the MINI Dealership, who quoted me first. After my car sat idle for 4 days at the Dealership, the service manager finally responded to my calls about my car's issue, and then they misdiagnosed the issue and quoted me a fortune to repair it.

I am so happy that I shopped around and called Griffin's for a second opinion. I was able to speak with Carlos over the phone and he immediately put my mind at ease by answering my questions and telling me what the game plan and approximate cost would be. They also completed the work within 2 days because they knew I needed my car back so I could get to some important appointments. Carlos is wonderful with customer service--he's honest and realistic--which I like. I will only send my car to Griffin's from now on.
Lori Perkins
Jun 30, 2021
I cannot fully express my joy about the quality of care received at Griffins auto care. The entire team treats it's customer and their car as if it were their own! From the first contact with the mechanic and the service writer, I was made to feel confident about leaving my car in their capable hands. There wasn't any hidden fees or any work done without my written permission on the work order. 100%
Belt L.
May 10, 2021
On December 02nd 2020 I brought my vehicle in for service to Griffin's Auto Repair. - Griffin's Auto Repair's mechanic left a bolt inside my engine (as I was later informed by its unlicensed sub-contractor, to whom they assigned its repair - picture attached) - I returned it & Griffin's Auto Repair promised its completion in 2 weeks I've been waiting since I returned my vehicle to Griffin's Auto Repair to fix their damage: 1.

They sub-contacted my truck's repair to an out -of-business, unlicensed & uninsured man; sent my truck to this person's house, where its been to this day, without my consent. I'm uncertain if Griffin's Auto Repair's has insurance coverage on such an arrangement. - In late 2020, Griffin's Auto Repair's unlicensed sub-contractor informed me that he was hindered by Griffin's Auto Repair, who rejected he's solutions, in order to save money 2. Griffin's Auto Repair has been very elusive. - When I asked to meet with its owner, I received no response. - Griffin's Auto Repair only communicated with me after my aggressive followup updating me with false updates & promises of completion on specific days, which have never materialized 3.

Upon realizing that Griffin's Auto Repair is incapable of delivering as they promised and are unable to repair the damage that their technician caused to my vehicle, I've asked for its return. They refused. Griffin's Auto Repair damaged my vehicle, while working on it. Griffin's Auto Repair promised to resolve that damage in 2 weeks. It's been half a year. I'm still waiting for my car. Griffin's Auto Repair's poor integrity makes me sad. I need help?
Sheena S.
Apr 09, 2021
They were super busy but still took my car. Communicated with me every day with updates regarding my Jeep. I'm new to the area and had a hard time finding a shop I felt comfortable with. Definitely will be using them again!
Natalie G.
Mar 24, 2021
I've been going to Griffin's for years because I have an old BMW that always has something wrong with it. Everyone at Griffin's is so great and helpful. I'm grateful I found a place where I trust they'll tell me what needs to get done and what can wait, and that they'll do a great job. They also always try to find the most cost effective solutions to any problem which I appreciate so much.

I recently moved further away but still will only take my car to Griffin's for maintenance and repairs. They've helped me with repairing my air conditioning, fixing a broken automatic window, starter issues, among MANY other things! Thanks Griffin's!
Cristina A.
Mar 19, 2021
Highly recommend. My car was leaking & burning oil (Volkswagen so it's expected) and I took my car here hoping as a single gal I wouldn't get up sold and treated disrespectfully. They we PHENOMENAL! Super respectful, really professional. Fixed the leaking oil for $100 and let me know that burning oil is a normal thing for my car. My car also makes this really strange almost rattle like noise when it's on & they didn't try to coerce me to do/pay for anything else to be done.

When you go to Griffin's, you get exactly what you ask for which I appreciate. They did fix my brake light without asking, however, when I let them know I had already bought brake lights & was planning to fix it myself they took the charge off! What a great place. My boyfriend & I have already been back for our other car and they fixed it in one day and charged a third of the price for what the dealership wanted. We will be using Griffin's Auto for any of our auto needs
Tiara W.
Mar 15, 2021
Awesome service here. I needed an air pump changed on my smart car. they order the part and repaired my car with in a week, being that they are closed on the weekend and i was able to bring my car in on a day they were booked AND the part took about 4 days to get there, id say they got it done pretty quick. Very friendly and polite staff. COVID 19 is not taken lightly at this shop, they all wear their mask, also have sanitizer set up for use. when they are done with your car they spray the inside with lemon fresh sanitizer. I was really impressed with the service i received!
Alexandra M.
Mar 13, 2021
I am a covid response ICU nurse new to the area and needed an oil change and my breaks checked. I was in between nights shifts and extremely tired and they were aware of this information and decided to take advantage of that information. I was charged $130 in labor to place 10 cent spark and plugs and an additional $130 for an oil change and labor.

I am thoroughly disgusted and cannot Beleive this bill that i now have and the treatment I received. You bet I will be lettimg everyone I know in the same boat as me out here, to NEVER go back to this place.
Mike G.
Feb 16, 2021
5 stars on professional service and nice guys! Initially I felt that perhaps I was overcharged and had communication with the owner who actually educated me on what was involved and quite honestly I was wrong and out of touch with what current prices are for parts/labor. All's good actually, great owner who took the time to reach out to me who was truly concerned until I was satisfied. I am now! I have many cars, and I hate dealer prices, so it's good to know there is an honest professional alternative in Little Italy with a great staff. Thanks guys!
Lisa S.
Feb 15, 2021
In the two years we've lived in Little Italy we have had Griffins Auto service, maintain and fix our cars multiple times. They are always thorough, always generous with the explanations (I am someone that knows next to nothing related to cars), and they suffer through all my questions, graciously. I worked with Carlos most recently, and the damage to my 11 year old car was found to need extensive repair.

It was very stressful, because the cost was considerably more than expected. He sent us pictures, explained all that was needed and offered safe alternatives in the repair which was so appreciated. We agreed to what was to be done and the service was completed on time, and we are so happy with the experience. Thank you to all that work there! You have a long time customer in us!
Jaremy C.
Feb 04, 2021
Took my car in about 6 months ago after it'd been sitting for over a year. They did NOT following my directions of draining all fluids, including DCT, rear differential, engine oil, brake fluid, and so on. It's sad I was recommended this place by AAA. They cleared my DME codes referencing emissions and didn't tell me which amazing the pump was bad, so they missed out on actual revenue.

Instead they did the bare minimum, which I am so thankful for the fact it made it from their shop to the actually BMW specific mechanic. If you go somewhere with a car sitting over a year in a high performance car and they don't drain the fluids. RUN. It's cheaper. AAA discount was a joke and they don't validate or support anything.
J. V.
Dec 10, 2020
Everyone at Griffins is amazing! I needed new roaders and brakes, they gave me the best deal. Also they completed the work in a day and cleaned it! The measures they took to protect themselves from covid are very apparent too. I congratulate this team for adapting to 2020's challenges without compromising their customer service and highly recommend their work!
Todd Anderson
Oct 16, 2020
I bought a new intake for my Mercedes GLC and unfortunately with the holidays didn't have enough time to do the install myself. I called around to a few shops and Griffin was hands down the most professional and helpful over the phone. They told me to come in the next day for a quick check to make sure they could get everything done, and sure enough they fit me in no problem.

They finished earlier than they told me they would and the install was perfectly done. Very happy with the services and absolutely recommend. Professional, friendly, great follow up and no hidden prices as it was exactly what I was quoted.
Rob C.
Sep 02, 2020
Really impressed. Went in for some AC issues and the were quickly able to sort out the problem. They let you know upfront any costs and estimate costs - great communication and they follow Covid guidelines well. Price was very fair and the service excellent.
LaShonnu B.
Mar 24, 2020
I'm giving them a review even before I take my car in, because they've been great. With all that's going on now, and the nature of my job, I've had to reschedule twice with Griffin's for a simple diagnostic/engine check. They've been nothing but gracious, always accommodating my request to change. When I asked if there was anything specific that I needed to do when coming in (should I mask up, leave the car curbside, etc) they reassured me all was good, and were kind enough to let me know what sort of disinfecting procedures they have in place. I found that absolutely amazing and caring. Thank you!
Cinna B.
Nov 10, 2018
I definitely recommend Griffin's Auto Repair! I pulled into work one day and noticed that I had lost a lot of antifreeze on the ground. This was a horrible experience. After trying to find the leak myself, I gave up and called AAA to come tow my SUV to a nearby auto repair shop. AAA recommended Griffin's and I always trust AAA. Now I also trust Griffin's.

I ended up driving to Griffin's and getting there right at closing time. The guys helped me even though they were ready to go home. I brought my SUV in on a Tuesday evening at closing time and got it back by Friday. I let them know ahead of time that I wasn't in a huge rush, but that Friday would be great. Griffin's provided me with an honest and fair repair at a reasonable price. I was never pressured and I left feeling really pleased with my experience here!