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Rolf's Foreign Car Repair Shop A family owned & operated business, Rolf's Auto Care has helped owners of foreign and domestic cars on Chicago's North Shore for over a generation. During all that time we have earned our reputation as a no-nonsense, trustworthy and dependable car repair service. Our mission is to help you get the greatest value and longest service life out of your vehicle. That mission drives everything we do. At Rolf's Auto Care we work with you to keep your car in the best possible condition, for the least possible cost.
Services
We first opened our overhead doors in 1979. Our founders, Rolf and his wife were the first employees, and for a little while the only ones. Soon, however, word got out that there was a great master mechanic from Germany repairing foreign cars in a small shop on Hartrey in Evanston. Rolf's friends and neighbors (our first customers) were recommending the independent shop and its' hard-working owners to all their friends and neighbors.
R olf's Auto Care is ready to meet all your automotive service needs. Import and domestic cars, minor to major repairs, scheduled factory maintenance and seasonal services, used car inspections, emissions testing & repair and much, much more. Our technicians have the training, experience, and the latest diagnostic tools to take great care of your car.
Rolf's "Free Brake & Battery Inspection Special" helps you make sure you can START & STOP your car when you want to! With this special discount we would like to acknowledge, honour and support your service and sacrifice.
Now is the best time - and Rolf's Auto Care is the best place - to get ready for winter and the freezing weather. Winterizing your car will save you money, by improving your vehicle's fuel efficiency, performance and reliability. We want you to have a safe and happy winter season. Whether you're a do-it-yourselfer, or need some help from our experienced technicians, below are the most important areas that need to be checked out: The coupon on our specials page will save you $25 on any inspection or repair.
Reviews (28)
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Marina Cardenas
Jun 01, 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 29, 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 03, 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 16, 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?
Simon W.
Dec 13, 2021
We've been a Rolf's customer for years. Very skilled mechanics, fast service, and reliable repairs. Worth it!
Patricia Cochran
Aug 09, 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
Kristie Walstrum
Aug 03, 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
Jul 10, 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.
Ana Mari
Jun 25, 2021
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!
Jay L.
May 11, 2021
Great experience at Rolf's. Dave was very helpful and explained condition and service needed. Smooth appointment making, drop off and pick up. Phone calls during the day with info and updates. Finished a big job in one day. Didn't do work that was not needed. Pricing beat competition.
Star P.
Feb 15, 2020
My car heater stopped working on my way to work in below zero weather. I called my regular mechanic but the business was closed for 2 weeks for vacation. I was hesitant to go somewhere else but I was in a bind. Rolf's is by my job so I dropped it off and hoped for the best. Not only was it fixed in less than 3 hours, but the cost was less than the pricing I researched from other repair shops in the area. George is knowledgeable, friendly and honest. I am very happy with their pricing and services!
Chris C.
Mar 24, 2018
When it comes to diagnostic and repair work for my car, honesty is the most important trait I look for. Even if labor costs are a little higher, honesty will likely save you a boatload of money in the long run. That's what we get when we come to Rolf's. Competent and patient even explaining their work, they also have a refreshing directness about what they feel is needed, but perhaps more importantly, they also tell you what you DON'T need. Sometimes, that can be really hard to find.

Very happy with Rolf's, really appreciate the patience and explanations provided by David at the front, and will be patronizing them as long as my wife and I live in Illinois.
M. R.
Sep 26, 2017
Never going anywhere else but to Rolf's for my car care. My twin sister and I always receive excellent care and treatment here. No crazy extra charges. Just good quality service with respectable and honest service. Been bringing my car here for years and they have always had space in their day to fit me in. Quality and service can't be beat. Love this place and highly recommend them. Go here!
Hannah B.
Jun 24, 2017
They helped me fix my headlight. It was minimal wait time and a very reasonable price. Very friendly customer service.
Kevin B.
Apr 20, 2017
My cars oil light came on after a recent oil change from a different place. These guys were very courteous, diagnosed the problem, and even gave me a discount from the estimate. A+.
Steve S.
Jan 26, 2017
My son lives/works in Evanston and I'm in PHX. The guys at Rolf's took good care of my son's car and were very easy to work with. Not the cheapest, but you get what you pay for. I'd go back to Rolf's for sure!
Al B.
Jan 26, 2017
These guys are Honest and want to fix your car properly. This place is probably great for your regular run of the mill repairs. I brought in My VW BUG for an number of issues and 2 of them were improperly diagnosed. In my case they didn't have the necessary factory software that would have lead to a proper diagnosis. They did try and fix the issues but in the end I had to go to another place.
Jahara M.
Aug 05, 2015
Very honest and trustworthy guys there (David & George). Fixed my Mercedes mirror for $1000 less than what the dealership was wanting to charge me. It's mechanics like this that restore my faith in humanity to provide a great service at a great price!
Vanessa S.
Dec 31, 2014
We first brought our Toyota here in 2009. We had taken it to the dealer for a service and they wanted us to put over $4,000 into the vehicle. We brought it to Rolf's for a service and inspection. None of the work the dealer claimed we needed was necessary. Yes, the labor costs might be higher and they charge for diagnostics, but their honesty completely offsets this and saves money in the long run.

They are great at giving a "heads up" on work as well.ie the back brakes will need to be replaced in the next six months. I appreciate their honesty and highly recommend them.
Roland S.
Jul 16, 2014
Honest and thorough - that's what you get at Rolf's. I have been taking my 98 BMW and 2000 Audi there for years and they fix only what is needed, giving you the nuance of what is absolutely needed vs. what is nice to do. This is very valuable for me and it is what I'm missing from dealerships. Case in point - my daughter has a Toyota where the dealership quoted a $1K repair that I thought was too high, took it to Rolf's and they fixed it for $30. It does not always work that way, but I know I can trust Rolf.
Jim R.
Dec 07, 2013
Rolf's has effectively serviced my 2003 BMW three times in the past year. Other reviewers have claimed they are expensive but I found they were over 10% cheaper than a BMW dealership on a valve cover replacement. They are willing to drive me home when I drop my car off for a repair, then pick me up after it's complete -- this saves me time and effort to get to them. I will be using them again and again for my beloved vintage Beemer.
Joe F.
Oct 20, 2011
I've used Rolf's several times for routine maintenance and also for more extensive repairs. This has got to be the most professional auto repair business I've ever patronized. They are thorough, they give accurate estimates; actually they came in lower than the estimate at least two or three times and the repair work is first rate. They're definitely on the pricier side. You've got to pay for a diagnostic up front. They're very thorough and, as one person mentioned in another review, even if you decide not use them for all the repairs, the comprehensive diagnostic work is worth the money.

They can handle complex jobs and simple jobs. The shop is orderly and immaculate, always a good sign. Update: January 2017 I've continued to use Rolf's for 5 years since writing my original review. Still 5 stars. Excellent work, never had a negative experience with Rolf's. This is the most pleased I've ever been with auto service.
Robert M.
Dec 24, 2010
Haha, se my review of T&H Auto! This place rocks! I'm a 8th time SAAB owner and I used to go to Loch Frew at Frew Enterprises in DesPlaines. It's like a dental office. Lab coats, all your parts shown and offered at the end. I moved to Evanston and I guess the logical choice would be Peterson Automotive, one time partner of Peterson Frew. reviews are mixed, it's a hassle to get to.

So off to Rolf's. Not exactly lab coats, but friendly, and efficient with my time and money. Found a trouble quickly. Did a lot of maintenance work for a good price. 8x the work of T&H Auto, only 2x the cost. And no jerking around.
Amanda B.
Dec 09, 2009
We're big fans of Rolf's. I started bringing my car here in 2003, after a place over on Chicago Avenue told me I needed a new clutch and a few other things ($1000+ of work on my 20+ year old toyota station wagon that I bought for $700). I took it over to Rolf's and they did something magical for only $100 and it worked good as new. Since then we have brought our Volvo to Rolf's and have never had a problem.

They let us know what work is essential and what is not, and we know we can trust them. Yes, they can be expensive. But, that is totally offset by their competence and honesty, and we've saved money in the long run.
Franz Z.
Apr 20, 2008
I've been taking my Toyota here for a little over two years and took a Mazda there before that. They're honest, thorough, and competent. They are somewhat expensive per hour of work, though. But if you're willing to pay a bit more for service you can trust, they are a good choice.
Haley M.
Jun 02, 2007
This guy I knew told me I should go there if I was tired of being screwed over. (My car was constantly needing fixing. Grant it, it's from '96 and has 130,000 miles on it but still.) So I go to Rolf's. First of all, they are kind of expensive, but if you want a thorough run-down on your vehicle, it's worth it! Their hours are meh. but they're goofd enough, they know they only have to be open when it works for them, so more power to them. They're really friendly, really honest, and they show you what's wrong. They'll tell you what you can put off, and what needs to be done now.

You can bring in your own parts, even. On top of that? When I get my car back, it doesn't even feel like my car anymore, it feels like some super-sweet smooth-drivin' ride. Go here, get diagnosed, and then choose from there. When you're tired of getting jerked around, they'll at least be honest.
Chris C.
Apr 26, 2007
Just used these guys for the first time, to perform a 30,000 preventative maintenance check on my Mazda. While they were friendly & responsive enough, this was offset by: 1) Won't take payment over the phone, which is a pain in the arse for those of us that actually work & can't get there by 5:30. I now have to get there at 8:00 in the morning & get in late to work 2) Wanted to charge me ~$70 for 3 wiper blades. This included their labor (what, like 5 minutes!?), but come on!
Erika G.
Aug 06, 2006
When I owned my BMW, these guys always took care of me. Honest and thorough. My brother uses this repair shop too. When I mentioned that Perillo didn't wash my car after an expensive repair like I thought they should, Rolfs picked up the ball and always washed/vacuumed my car. They're great - for foreign cars, esp. BMWs.