Business Details
43 Years
experience
Your Trusted Subaru Repair Experts in San Rafael
At Askim's Auto Works, we bring over 45 years of specialized expertise in Subaru repair and maintenance to Marin County. Founded in 1983, our shop combines decades of hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology to deliver precise diagnostics and reliable service. Our team of certified professionals prioritizes transparency, offering fair pricing and clear communication while maintaining factory-standard parts and procedures. We serve Subaru owners across Marin with personalized care, from routine maintenance to complex repairs, ensuring every vehicle receives meticulous attention.Our commitment to community values and customer trust has established us as the leading independent Subaru service center in the region. Through automated maintenance reminders and lifetime vehicle management, we build lasting relationships by prioritizing client needs over profit. Our shop's reputation for honesty, technical excellence, and exceptional service has been consistently validated by generations of satisfied customers.
Services
Oil Changes
Brake Service
Engine Replacement
Suspension Repair
Transmission Service
Cooling System Maintenance
Electrical Repairs
Pre-Purchase Inspections
Timing Belt Replacement
Clutch Repair
Details
- Year established: 1983
Highlights and features
- We offer 45+ years of specialized Subaru repair experience
- Our team maintains factory-standard diagnostic equipment and procedures
- We provide transparent pricing with no unnecessary upselling
- Our shop offers lifetime vehicle maintenance tracking and reminders
- We prioritize customer education about required repairs and maintenance
What people say
Honest mechanic
Expert service
Fair pricing
Lifetime maintenance tracking
Thorough diagnostics
Services
Subaru Oil Changes
Our factory-recommended oil change service includes premium synthetic fluids, filter replacement, and comprehensive vehicle inspection. We follow Subaru's specific maintenance intervals for optimal engine performance. Customers receive digital records tracking service history and upcoming maintenance needs.
Brake System Repair
Complete brake diagnostics and repair services covering pads, rotors, calipers, and ABS systems. We use genuine Subaru parts for proper fit and performance. Our technicians perform thickness measurements and wear analysis to ensure safety compliance and longevity.
Engine Diagnostics
Advanced diagnostic services using Subaru-specific software for accurate problem identification. Our computerized system tracks vehicle history and flags potential issues before they become major failures. We provide detailed explanations of findings and repair options.
Preventative Maintenance
Factory-scheduled maintenance plans tailored to your vehicle's mileage and age. Includes minor, intermediate, and major service packages. Our automated reminder system notifies owners when services are due based on Subaru's recommended intervals.
Used Vehicle Inspections
Comprehensive pre-purchase inspections for prospective Subaru buyers. Our evaluation covers mechanical condition, maintenance history, and potential repair costs. We provide honest assessments to help buyers make informed purchasing decisions.
People
Jim Askim
Owner/Operator
Third-generation Marin native with 45+ years of Subaru specialization. Former dealership service manager turned independent shop owner. Maintains Automotive Technology Advisory Board membership for College of Marin. Recognized for technical expertise and community-focused business practices.
Questions
What Subaru models do you service?
We service all Subaru models including Legacy, Outback, Forester, Impreza, and Crosstrek. Our technicians specialize in both modern and classic Subaru platforms.
Do you offer maintenance reminders?
Yes, our digital system automatically sends personalized maintenance reminders based on your vehicle's specific needs and service history.
Can you help with pre-purchase inspections?
We provide comprehensive pre-purchase inspections that evaluate mechanical condition, maintenance requirements, and value assessment for prospective Subaru buyers.
What makes your shop different from dealerships?
We combine dealership-level expertise with personalized service, often at lower costs. Our focus on transparency and customer education creates a more trustworthy experience.
Do you handle major repairs?
Yes, we perform complete engine replacements, transmission rebuilds, and complex diagnostics using factory-grade equipment and genuine Subaru parts.
Are your technicians certified?
Our team includes ASE-certified technicians with specialized Subaru training. We maintain current factory certifications for proper service procedures.
Reviews (5)
Timothy J.
Jun 12, 2022
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Jim and his staff are the best. As someone that knows nothing about cars, Jim's communication, reliability, and quality of service are second to none.
Rachel Real
May 05, 2022
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Talked to Jim. He was incredibly knowledgeable and helpful with my ancient Subaru Outback that has been overheating. Thank you!
Sherrill C.
Mar 17, 2022
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We went to Askim's for a tire rotation and adjustment on our 2015 Subaru Forester. Jim offered to do a minor service (well-check) and found we needed new front tires instead of a tire rotation. The evident honesty and integrity are appreciated. We will be back.
Charles Roberts
Jan 27, 2022
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What can I say about Jim Askim. He's been looking after me and my Subarus for about 20 years, is accommodating, does a great job and always seems to be talking me out of spending money on things he considers unnecessary. I choose to have him do my oil changes, rather than go to a discount place, so that he can have a quick check over. I have also bought 4 Subarus from him that he has reconditioned which all worked out well. What I like is that you always talk to Jim, the owner and the guy who does the work. Great guy. End of story.
Stephanie D.
Dec 31, 2021
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I need to reiterate once again what an amazing shop this is. The last time I brought my car in for an oil change, Jim actually put a used brake pad in for me to extend the life of my brakes by 10,000 miles. He also cut a hanging plastic piece off of the bottom of my vehicle so it wouldn't scrape the road. I had been zip tying it up and frantically scrounging for the money to cover the expense of getting a new plastic cover and replacing my brake pads.
Especially so close to the holidays. I have never met a mechanic who would do either of these things and certainly if I took my car to an auto body shop, they'd immediately want to replace the cover and up charge me triple or more for the part alone. What I appreciate about Jim is he genuinely cares about your safety on the road. It's so obvious he does what he does because he cares about people and wants to lend a hand.
I will never take my car anywhere else and nor should you. I've been to many mechanics over the years and Jim is the best one out there. Plus, he knows Subaru's like nobodies business and Subaru's are in a league of their own. If you have a Subaru, this is the place.
Especially so close to the holidays. I have never met a mechanic who would do either of these things and certainly if I took my car to an auto body shop, they'd immediately want to replace the cover and up charge me triple or more for the part alone. What I appreciate about Jim is he genuinely cares about your safety on the road. It's so obvious he does what he does because he cares about people and wants to lend a hand.
I will never take my car anywhere else and nor should you. I've been to many mechanics over the years and Jim is the best one out there. Plus, he knows Subaru's like nobodies business and Subaru's are in a league of their own. If you have a Subaru, this is the place.