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John's Automotive Care John's Automotive Care are your EXPERTS in full service auto repair, truck repair and vehicle maintenance in San Diego CA and surrounding areas. We're dedicated to delivering customer satisfaction! We provide everything from oil changes to the most intricate repairs imaginable. No matter what automotive problem you may experience, you can depend on us for quality professional service. Your satisfaction is our top priority!

Our company has been providing quality car repair, service and maintenance in San Diego, CA. since 1998. We are a locally-owned family business dedicated to delivering quality and professional automotive services to the our friends and neighbors in San Diego and surrounding areas, including La Mesa and Tierrasanta. Our highly professional ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) Certified technicians are skilled in the latest automotive technology and are equipped to handle all major and minor repairs on foreign and domestic cars and trucks.

We understand that your car or truck is a major investment, and that is why we care for each customer's vehicle as if it were our own.
Served areas
  • San Diego, CA
Highlights and features
  • Auto Repair & Air Conditioning Service!
  • Wheel Alignment | Tire Sales & Service!
Associations and certifications
  • ASE National Institute for Automotive Service
  • AAA - American Automobile Association
  • NAPA | ASA
Services
Our Services
Report
Our Services We Provide Maintenance, Repair, and Diagnostic Services for Your Domestic or Foreign car or truck. Our company provide repairs and maintenance on all makes and models of domestic and import cars and trucks. Bring us your car, SUV, light truck, or entire fleet. Our competent, friendly and professional ASE certified technicians use the most up-to-date diagnostic equipment and quality parts & products while meeting all of your automotive repair & maintenance needs.
You could win 2 movie passes, and a $20 gift card for Longhorn Diner, a free full service car wash from Stadium Car wash, amongst other prizes! Welcome to John's Automotive Care, your EXPERTS in full service auto repair, truck repair and vehicle maintenance in San Diego CA and surrounding areas. We're dedicated to delivering customer satisfaction!
Our story may have begun on April Fools Day, but our dedication to the safety, drivability, and longevity of your vehicle is not a joke. For more than a decade, our team of auto mechanics has been trusted to take care of drivers throughout San Diego, but our story has humble beginnings. In fact, it all started with an alarm clock.
Bryan's genuine concern for others helped him fit right in to our family back in 2010. He comes from an extensive automotive background starting in the early '90s! He is ASE certified as a service consultant as well as in Suspension, making him a true asset to the JAC team. Bryan is married to his beautiful wife Charlene, and they have 5 children, Andrew, Bryan, Nicole, Tyler and Matthew.
John's Automotive Care has earned a reputation as the leading auto repair shop in San Diego. In fact, you might consider John's Automotive Care the leading auto service center in the nation, with a recently garnered title of NAPA/ASE Technician of the Year. Our auto mechanics provide highly-skilled and efficient auto repair services to a variety of foreign and domestic vehicles.
With a quick turnaround, great communication, and discounts available, John's automotive is one of the best auto service places I've been to. They're honest and have great customer service so I will be coming back when my car needs maintenance again. I've been looking for an alternative to the pricy dealership when my Subaru became due for an oil change.
People
John Eppstein
John Eppstein
Owner
Hello. My name is John Eppstein, and as the owner of John's Automotive Care I'd like to welcome you to our website. I'd like to tell you more about us. My employees and I are a group of highly skilled individuals who take pride in performing expert vehicle repairs while providing exceptional customer service. We get a good sense of accomplishment that comes from providing quality, professional service and over the top customer service. That is why we've won the AAA Quality Service Award a second time!

Our customers will tell you that we are dedicated auto repair experts committed to building lasting customer relationships. They know that we put our customers first in all that we do here at John's Automotive Care, and we work as a fine-tuned team, continually striving for that complete customer satisfaction goal.
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Reviews (50)
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Haley L.
Jun 22, 2022
I took my car here because it was leaking fluids. I had no idea what was going on but these guys were very helpful and explained everything. I'll be coming here for all my car needs. Thanks
Maria R.
Jun 17, 2022
My new automotive shop! The technician that worked on my vehicle is knowledgeable. The tech, who conducted the diagnostic was thorough, provided an extensive report, along with pictures, and recommendations on what was required. Overall satisfied with the repairs! Thank you. Much appreciated.
Marsha Powell
Jun 05, 2022
I took my car into John's automotive care for a Smog Check. My experience was the best, good communication and very knowledgeable about cars. After waiting on my car and listening as they talk to customers, they made each person feel like family, I sure did. I enjoyed my visit so much I didn't want to leave. I really appreciate the customer service, they got me in and out within an hour. I would recommend John's Auto Care to anyone!
Anthony Artuso
May 27, 2022
One of the smoothest mechanic experiences I can remember. A friend recommended them so I went in for an oil change/60K mile inspection and they were great. My guy Andrew kept me posted throughout the entire process. They inspected the whole car, replaced the cabin filter, and also noticed a nail in my tire which they were able to patch. All of this for a very fair price. If you're in need of a mechanic, go to John's!
Maverick James
May 23, 2022
10/10 recommend! Went in for engine troubleshooting. Rick as my service adviser was highly communicative with updates on the troubleshooting as well viable repair options and pricing. Ben as the tech servicing my car provided quick service and a very impressive detailed report. I 100% recommend this shop for the professionalism of the crew and the quality of the service.
Lindsey M.
May 22, 2022
Go to John's auto if you want quality care. Been with them for years. They are phenomenal.
Deborah M.
May 12, 2022
John's Automotive has provided great service for my car. They're thorough, communicative, reliable, and helpful. It's a positive experience from start to finish. I'm glad to have found an experienced and trustworthy shop to bring my car to.
Cindy W.
May 11, 2022
I've been going to John's now for a number of years, mostly because it was convenient at the time. But it didn't take long to realize the great customer service, fair pricing and excellent work. Today, they updated my GPS system, something they certainly didn't have to do. Always going the extra mile! I drive all the way from Chula Vista for their great workmanship and excellent customer service. I don't think I'll be seeking out anyone any closer to me, even at $6/gallon!
Suzanne Hess
May 04, 2022
Yesterday I went to John's Automotive without an appointment to get my car smogged. I was greeted warmly and quickly. I was told that there was a car before me getting the same service and it would take about one and a half hours. I walked around the streets for a while and then sat in a chair outside their office. At 1 1/2 hours later my car was finished.

It passed and I am happy. A technician completed the paperwork, I paid and left as a very happy customer. In the past before I knew about John's my experience was not good for many reasons. From now on I will take cars to John's for this service. Thank you, Gentlemen!
Fong L.
Apr 26, 2022
Very friendly and professional on the phone and at the counter. I don't want to Uber home so I always hangout at nearby S3 coffee (awesome breakfast and matcha latte) & the park. Normally my car is ready after lunch so I've grabbed a bite at a few tasty lunch spots too. The oil changes are smooth. Thankfully no major issues. They offer a full report on findings and recommendations. I appreciate they explain but not overly aggressively push you on repairs which are not critical.
Charlie P.
Apr 17, 2022
They examined the 2002 E150 van, identified the problem, suggested fixes and completed the fixes as explained and planned. No surprises and the completed work looks good and operates well.
Seth Masseur
Apr 10, 2022
Great group of folks working here. I got a sense of a good working atmosphere when I went in. I'm sure the technicians get a lot of work because business is booming there but the quality of service was exceptional. Andrew did a fantastic job with helping me decide on my repairs consulting with the technician when needed. Overall my experience here was great! I was treated fair and impartial. Service was conducted in a timely manner. Highly recommend this location and the other John's Automotive centers.
Matthew Shade
Apr 08, 2022
Super convenient. Free shuttle service in a 6 mile radius. Up front estimate of price and required time for parts and labor was spot on. No crazy recommendations for unnecessary services. Price was reasonable. I'm very happy I brought my car here. Services: Battery, Vehicle Inspection, Auto maintenance, Oil change, General repairs & maintenance
Neva J.
Mar 29, 2022
Recently moved to San Diego and was looking for a good place to take my car to. I have a BMW and normally take it to the dealer. Decided to look around and found John's Automotive. They had such good ratings and quite a few reviews, so thought I would give them a try. They have a AAA 38 point maintenance check, which I did. They were very nice on the phone each time I called.

I had to reschedule my appointment and it was not an issue. When I got there Dawn helped me. She was wonderful! Very professional, nice and helpful. They made recommendations and let me decide what I wanted to take care of. Decided to take care of everything. Needless to say I am very happy with my overall experience and will be back. Thank you Dawn and John's Automotive
Amber V.
Feb 28, 2022
Brian and the rest of the staff at John's Automotive are beyond amazing. If I could leave a 10 star review, I would! Not only did Brian go above and beyond to make sure our company vehicle was in tip top shape, he explained exactly what we needed to do to maintain the vehicle going forward in detail. Brain is very responsive, honest, patient, and is an all around great guy.
Nadia C.
Feb 26, 2022
So happy with the services and repairs provided at John's Automotive Care. I started having grinding noice when breaking and brought my car there because they had great reviews and were open on Saturday. Very friendly staff at the reception. They couldn't get my car fixed the same day due to other busy day but one of the guys did a visual inspection of my car, gave some suggestions and scheduled me ASAP. Repair took place coming Monday.

I loved very though inspection of the whole car and full emailed report with pictures and suggestions. Very satisfied with how friendly, quick and efficient their services are! The price was right too!
Frances Smith
Feb 20, 2022
I always have a good experience with John's. They are communicative, friendly, and very efficient at what they do. Their local shuttle is a real life saver and everyone I've spoken with has been knowledgeable and professional. They are my go-to for car troubles or maintenance. Highly recommend. Services: Auto engine diagnostic, Wheel alignment, General repairs & maintenance
Jessica T.
Feb 11, 2022
My mom recommend John's based on the great customer service she received when she took her car in. Well, I am so happy my mom recommended John's Automotive. These guys are great! My service adviser was Jay- he was amazing! He was very patient and through and explained things in layman's terms. I really liked how they send detailed write ups along with photos. If you're looking for great honest automotive care look no further- John's Automotive Care is the place!
Jason A.
Feb 07, 2022
This was my first experience using John's to have my car looked at. Justin was great helping me throughout the process. Great customer service would highly recommend. I will be bringing my car here for now on.
Ashley P.
Jan 25, 2022
I was having issues with my truck and also the dealership. Mathieu was beyond super helpful. He even went out of his way to contact a dealership to try to clarify recall information for me. They were able to replace my water pump quickly and it was very affordable compared to other shops. He even offered to have me shuttled home, even though I was outside of their standard drop off mileage.

I cannot say enough about this shop, their hospitality, customer service and care. It felt like home the minute I walked through the door and I'll be back again if I need any additional services in the future. Thanks again!
Viktoriya M.
Jan 24, 2022
This is a great place, with very professional and customer service oriented people. It is always a pleasure working with them. Every time I had an appointment, everything went great, and people who work there answered all my questions. There was a time when I had to cancel an appointment because I realized that I was going to need my car the day of the appointment, and the lady I spoke with was very understanding and cancelled my appointment with no issues. I would highly recommend this place.
Joseph Anselmo
Jan 23, 2022
This place was great! It was my first time going to these guys and I was very satisfied with their service. I will definitely take all my vehicles to these guys. If you're looking for a good mechanic shop with affordable prices and great customer service, this is the place! Services: Oil change, Tires
Alyse T.
Jan 22, 2022
Very attentive to my request for a quote. The backstory was a little silly. I was trying to switch out my license plates and one of the screws was stuck to the bracket. I tried fixing it for a good 30 mins but it didn't help, so I requested a quote from John's and a few other auto shops. John's gave me the most attentive response. The other ones were either automated or completely off-topic.

For example, one auto shop refused my request because it's a Tesla, but all I asked from them was to fix the screw stuck to my bracket. Even though I ended up having the screw fixed by my friends, I still wanted to give this shoutout to John's :
Romina Hogue
Jan 12, 2022
Very friendly and efficient staff. I got timely quotes and invoices to review prior to making decisions. They called me to talk through many things and it felt like a neighborhood shop instead of a transactional base place. They fixed my brakes and seals. Great experience! I'll be back and tell others!
Robert Gregg
Jan 03, 2022
I worked with Matt to try and figure out why my check-engine light came on and it was quite an experience. They did a full point inspection and determined the PCV valved needed to be replaced. Okay, no problem. Unfortunately, the part was defective and broke the next day. I had to get a tow off the highway back to the shop (not the end of the world, my car insurance had free towing).

They replaced the part for free and off I went. The next day the check-engine light came on again, on Christmas eve! Obviously, I had to wait until after the Holidays to bring it back a third time. Matt was really apologetic and explained to me that the check-engine light came on because of the secondary air pump, which really can only be diagnosed when the engine is cold.

As they replaced it, they also rechecked the entire fuel injection system and replaced the O2 sensor, MAF, and purge valve for free. They test drove the vehicle as well to ensure everything was running smoothly. Overall this was an unfortunate and unusual situation, but Matt made the experience much less stressful, keeping me updated every step of the way.
Jase McLeod
Jan 02, 2022
I've never had a mechanic work with me as positively as with John's Automotive. Never before have I had a mechanic explain what could be done later, as normally they would push everything to be done as important. Services: Oil change, Check engine light diagnostic
Nikkal FeyRos
Dec 27, 2021
I wouldn't use anyone else in San Diego! Highly recommend! Honest and thorough!
John Hartman
Dec 22, 2021
John's Automotive Care is your One stop shop. No reason to shop around for auto repair needs. John and his team can take care of you from A to Z including a three year 36,000 mile warranty on parts and labor. I highly recommend John's Automotive Care.
Anna Anorue
Dec 07, 2021
I've been working with Justin, and since day one he has been very patient and understanding. He is super knowledgeable which eased my mind since I know nothing about cars. I have received updates at every step and was given time to make informed decisions on bigger repairs. I've been provided great service so far and I look forward to continued routine maintenance with Johns Auto to keep my car running great!
Ray Deters
Nov 14, 2021
I have always gotten excellent service at John's Automotive. The staff is fantastic, and always courteous. Justin and Dawn are the people I usually deal with, and they are super helpful. Jeff, who drives the shuttle is also super friendly and efficient.
Glenn Z.
Nov 11, 2021
We have been Customers of John's Automotive Care for several years and throughout those years they have always treated us right. Since they have added more shop space it seems that they are pushing the customers to pay higher prices to keep their cars running without having to buy a new car. When I had my high mileage vehicle towed in, they ran an agreed diagnostic pressure test and discovered a leaking water pump.

When they called me with this diagnosis they said they recommend I replace the entire engine because of the high mileage. They then said they would not repair the water pump and I had to make arrangements to have my vehicle towed to a different shop that would replace the pump without costing me $5,000 for a new engine.
Patrick Bowers
Nov 03, 2021
John's is simply the best for courteous and professional automotive service. We have been taking our cars to John's Automotive Care for over 20 years, and can honestly say we've never been disappointed. The peace of mind and value we get by taking our cars to a team we know we can trust, we know will treat us as family, and we know will get the job done in a timely manner is immeasurable. We highly recommend!
Donny Le
Nov 02, 2021
John's Automotive could be the standard by which we measure all other mechanic shops by. Timely service, proper staffing, good communication, great customer service (thank you Dawn! you rock!), and they embrace/utilize technology well to give me valuable reports on my car, ask for feedback and let me easily see what THEY are about through their website and marketing materials.

I thought the pricing was fair, I felt like they were honest, and apparently they had multiple mechanics to review my car because when a 2nd mechanic caught an issue that the 1st mechanic misdiagnosed, they performed a certain necessary repair for me free of charge. Will be using them again for another vehicle in our household.
Julie Rowan
Oct 31, 2021
These guys, Justin, Bryan, the whole crew I believe, went above and beyond, to try to figure out what was going on with my car. The communication was wonderful and you could tell that they were giving it their all. I have always had trust issues with mechanics but they showed themselves to be completely trustworthy and we will be back. Their pricing is very reasonable and they are not there to gouge you and 'find' things that aren't wrong with your car. I cannot recommend John's enough!
Sam Nguyen
Sep 18, 2021
I had a minor bumper issue, and my friend recommended me to this place. I called just to let them know the problem, and they told me to come right in. Immediately after arriving, Justin knew I was the guy on the phone, and we went straight to my car. He did it free of charge and told me not to worry about it and how he just wanted to help. I highly recommend people to come to this place for a reliable check-in and quick service. Shout out, Justin!
David W.
Sep 17, 2021
They did a good job, and were very clear of what work they were doing, but was extremely expensive, almost as much as the dealer. They also told me that some of the work I "needed" wasn't really necessary.
Jeff M.
Sep 15, 2021
Updated review: I called John's Automotive Care because I had dropped my radiator cap and was unable to find it (it was in my front bumper). I called John who told me to just stop by and they would take care of me. I did and they got the cap out in less than a minute, didn't charge me a penny for their time and did it all with a smile. Thanks again for all of your help, John!

From the first phone call, to the time I checked in my vehicle, the shuttle service and the follow up calls with Dawn, the service at John's Automotive Care has been top notch! I love how they send you an email with paragraphs of detail about what is going on with your car and the pictures to prove it. You don 't have to take their word for the issues with your car, they provide pics to show you EXACTLY what's going on with your car.

No longer do you have to take a mechanic's "trust me, it was bad in there and I had to replace it". this place will show you what is going on before they fix anything and let you decide before they work on the vehicle. Everyone was friendly, polite and extremely professional. Dawn was an absolute pleasure to deal with. Highly recommended!
Jesse Velasquez
Sep 08, 2021
Very proficient and thorough service. Johns is a AAAZ RECOMENDED service provider
Jaquielyn T.
May 22, 2021
I called in a frenzy to get my battery (infected with corrosion) replaced. From the get go, dawn was friendly, succinct, and professional. Even when I walked in, I was a little apprehensive and stressed being that my car had stalled on the way there and being a young woman in a fish out of water. The gentleman who greeted me made me feel welcome and didn't even laugh at my description of the dashboard light that light up ("it's like a 'slippery when wet' logo?"). Needless to say, this will be my go to auto shop. Dawn was fantastic and even looked out for me to try and get me a military/student discount! They are replacing my tires as we speak and I'll be back to get my smog test and oil changed in the upcoming weeks!
Shiwei S.
Feb 04, 2021
GREAT SERVICE! RECOMMEND! I found out my tire was flat and called in around 4:30pm, I was expecting an appointment for a later date because of the COVID situation but they fit me in right away. My tire was fixed and I was on my way out in 30mins. Justin at the front desk is very kind and helpful, and keeps me updated every step along the way. He's very thorough with his work and definitely made my day with the flower!
Ryan
Jun 29, 2018
I brought my broken down Trans Am here awhile ago because it had such good reviews on Yelp. They certainly lived up to it. I have never seen a more thorough auto shop. They take detailed pictures of everything and send you a diagnostic report on your car, with explanations breaking down any problems, what should be done, and how urgent it is. It's because of that experience that I brought a car here that I was interested in buying.

I wanted their thoroughness so I could make sure I was buying a good car. It definitely helped me make my decision and now they will be my go-to shop for sure. On top of the professionalism, every single person who works here I've interacted with has been awesome, especially Justin who really seems to know everything! Dropping car knowledge bombs left and right! Seriously, just ask for Justin when you come in. He'll take care of you and never pressures you on anything.
Maya A.
I love this place! The guys there don't make me feel dumb since I don't know a thing about cars. I felt very taken care of and my car is in such good hands!

Having conversations on the phone was so great, and if I didn't understand they could explain things very easily- that's how you know you've got a pro! They were so much quicker than expected and I got an email with everything they checked WITH PICTURES!

So not only do they have a file on location, but I do as well! I also got a lift to and from home to be able to leave the car there and not have to sit and wait. And through all of this they were honest and kind and I got my door opened when I was leaving...last but not least...I got a coupon for $5 off my next visit AND a bag of candies. Most positive mechanic experience I have had in a very long time!!! Big thanks to Justin at the front!
Debbie H.
My son's BMW broke down late in the evening and had his car towed
to John's . My son asked them to do an inspection to see what was wrong. The care inspection was so beautifully detailed, we new any and everything that was going on with the BMW, "many problems". I worked with Justin Snyder, He was fantastic. He had some great advice for us, pertaining to an older BMW. Justin said the car would take about 2.5 days turn around time, but they worked on the car till late into the evening and early morning. My son was on the road in one day. Thank you all at John's Automotive Care. Great shop!!
Jesse D.
This place rocks, I have brought several of my cars here and no matter what I receive great service. Justin and Bryon and Dave are the best. Each of them makes me feel right at home and are accountable and trustworthy! Definitely recommend this place for your car troubles!
Jeff Oleson
Incredibly kind and helpful on the phone and with Yelp quotes. Gave me a thorough quote, explained everything really well and patiently, with a lot of honesty and friendliness. Their quote was pretty high, but it included a three-year warranty, new parts and a AAA discount, which was 10% off up to $50. Would definitely go to them in the future.
Rosey Rosenblatt
WOW! Where do I start. John’s Automotive Care was a referral from AAA. I called their office and spoke with Justin. Now, there is a man who not only has a great sense of humor, he has Integrity, Humility, Compassion and OUTSTANDING Customer Service skills. My car was towed in the next day and the services only got better. I was immediately greeted with a friendly smile and a firm hand shake. Justin told me everything they were going to do and a few hours later there was an email with photos of my car with recommendations.

The service they quoted me was done with expertise and I could not be happier. I must admit I called Justin way too much and he was superior every time, to be honest I think I owe him some beer. When I stopped by to pay my bill Justin was not in the office, I think he was doing Yoga or something but their customer service continued.

John’s Automotive Care offered to come to my house and pick me up so I could drive my car back to my house.

The shuttle driver was as nice as the rest of the crew at John’s Automotive Care. When the shuttle driver dropped me off and I walked in the office, Justin greeted me with a big smile and made me feel like I’ve been going there for years. He wouldn’t admit he was doing Yoga but I did see the mat behind his desk? I will be a customer of John’s Automotive Care as long as I am in San Diego. They are what Customer Service used to be. I HIGHLY recommend John’s Automotive Care. Thanks Justin and everyone there.
Tamara Pryor
Best auto care in San Diego! Friendly, professional staff! AAA certified. So happy to have found this wonderful place! Byron and Justin are excellent! Thanks for taking care of my vehicle!
Jared Scofield
As a friend of John's and a fellow business owner, I can tell you that John is committed to the satisfaction of every customer and excellence is always on his mind. They will not disappoint giving every attention to detail while maintaining the high standards of honesty and integrity that we all expect in automotive repair.
Kelley Isham
I won't take my vehicle anywhere else! I trust John's Auto Care to tell me what truly needs to be done to my vehicle to ensure that I am traveling safely. They even take the time to speak with my dad on the phone to explain to him what needs to be done so he can have peace of mind that the fixes are needed and they are done at the right price. Additionally, John's Auto Care is active in the San Diego community and has made donations to a local non-profit that supports military families!
Morgan Newport
I had my car serviced at John's Automotive care and was VERY happy with both the service and results. I was in and out quickly and the repairs were at a very reasonable cost. The staff is friendly, informative, and genuinely care about their customers. I would 100% recommend this service to anybody looking for high quality car repair and customer service!