Laguna Viejo Auto Service — Attraction in Mission Viejo

Total replacement of all 4 shocks and struts + alignment + replacement of all 4 tire sensors = $3,277.65

Synopsis: Took my car in for major repairs on the struts and shocks only to come out with a new problem: my passenger window didn’t work when I picked up the car, and it was working when I took it in.

Further explanation: timely repairs, but when I picked up the car, the passenger window would not go up or down from the master control panel on the driver side door. All my windows were functioning properly when I brought the car in. Instead of trying to solve this issue for me, after paying thousands of dollars for the repairs, Megan (the front desk clerk) told me that the window becoming inoperable could be something that happened on its own as an independent issue separate from the replacement of the struts and sensors. She went on and on with multiple explanations for how that is now my problem to deal with, and not something at all related to the repairs. However, when I turned on the car, I noticed that the clock had the wrong time... so I went back in to ask why the clock was incorrect too?

After deeper probing, Megan revealed that the battery was disconnected to install the sensors and the struts/shocks. DING DING DING! - this was the reason why my window didn't work - NOT for some random independent reason.

When the battery was disconnected, so too was all of the electronics in the car, including the switch to the windows and the clock in the car, leading to the wrong time and a loss of memory settings to the automatic window feature.

For $3277.65 they could’ve taken that extra step to Google how to resolve this issue before I picked up the car. The windows were functioning properly when I took it in. Why did I have to look up how to fix a problem they created?? I simply Google how to reset the windows and fixed the problem in 5 minutes. This is something that should’ve been done as an extra step to ensure that the customer would be completely satisfied with the job, especially after paying so much money and an issue they created.

The most ironic thing about this story is that I had just talked to Megan about how I hate when auto repair people think I don’t know what I’m talking about with cars, then they pulled this. Nothing I hate more than being treated like an idiot. There was no apology given to me by Megan nor the mechanic for the issue they incurred, even after I fixed their problem. In fact, when I told Megan I fixed the issue she did not look up from her computer to acknowledge...

Let me tell you, it’s extremely difficult in this day and age to find an honest company in every regard. You have to do much research, rely on others for referrals and then you have to trust you are making the correct decision. This place is an ABSOLUTE GEM and not a hidden one either! I am AMAZED there are still honest people/companies in this world that actually care and want to give their customers quality products/services.

I feel so lucky and grateful to have found this place. I don’t know why I didn’t find this company earlier because I rely on reviews to make my decisions easier. I actually came across this company on the AAA website for approved auto service recommendations after having been recommended another company. I decided on Laguna Viejo Auto not only because of the ease of both getting in and out of the business complex and the parking, but it was AAA approved. That basically states customer service is top priority with fair pricing. I also read one particular Yelp review that was so touching it solidified that this was the right place to come. Gail (owner, receptionist) was about the sweetest person I have ever dealt with. I emailed her regarding an estimate for a new car starter and she was absolutely professional and so thorough with everything in order to give me the most accurate pricing which was fair and pleasing to the wallet. The appointment was super easy to make and I got in there right away. No hassle at all.

I have to say when I walked into this establishment I was shocked by the homey and nice décor they had and it did not smell like cars at all. It was almost like I was in my living room.

I was greeted in such a welcoming way by Gail. Not only did they look at my car right away, but John (owner) came to speak with me about my car and said that I did not need a starter after all. I found this to be a rare happening so was pleasantly surprised. So, I got my smog check done instead and it was quite a bit cheaper than the place I had taken my car to in previous years.

It came out to a win win for everyone!

If you are looking for an auto place that will treat you with honesty, integrity and give you quality service look no further! This is one of the very few out there that will go above and beyond no doubt!

My loyalties are with this company now for all of...

A huge and grateful-heart shout out to John and Gayle for taking care of my friends and I on Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018. We are local Bike Escorts on our way from Huntington Beach, CA to downtown San Diego for the inaugural DC Comics Wonder Woman Run Series. Myself, and three other friends, along with our bikes went down the 5 Freeway only for my trusty 4Runner to completely stop working in the carpool lane. Slowly, we were able to maneuver the vehicle over 5 lanes during a busy part of Saturday to safely exit Oso Parkway. Luckily, we were stopped right around the corner from Laguna Viejo Auto Service.

I have worked in the customer service industry for over 25 years and are well aware of what it requires to be the best in class. I had to leave my vehicle over the weekend, but thanks to Gayle's quick wit and world class customer service, she was able to take care of my vehicle first thing on Monday. It turns out I had a bad battery that broke the alternator (yes, the double whammy). Gayle and John were absolutely amazing. They are reliable and super trustworthy - a rarity these days in the world of vehicle repair. My trusted 4Runner has been maintained over the last 11 years by my brother who used to work in the vehicle service industry. His stories of questionable ethics in repairs has made me leery of trusting anyone to handle my auto repairs. I can honestly say that I now have another person I can trust to do my repairs and at reasonable costs. The best part is when John checked in a week later to ensure my vehicle is running well without any issues. They are top notch and deserve your business. Thank you so much for everything. You guys...