2024
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Our Recommended Top 20
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Our goal is to connect people with the best local professionals. We scored Rochester Auto Repair Shops on more than 25 variables across five categories, and analyzed the results to give you a hand-picked list of the best.
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Providers
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Featured Provider
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- 3.6
(59)
- 3.9
(9)
Why choose this provider?
Car Genius is staffed by RepairPal auto repair experts who provide mechanical advice and education on vehicle repairs and maintenance. Our Geniuses can help with investigating issues that your car may be facing; car repair best practices; specific car repair and maintenance costs; what that noise, dashboard light, symptom might be; what to ask and expect at the shop; the best repair facility for your specific needs; deciphering that repair estimate; and follow-up on any post-repair questions or lingering issue. RepairPal brings trust and transparency to auto repair by helping millions of customers feel confident that they're getting a fair price. The RepairPal Certified Network consists of 3,000+ trusted shops and dealers nationwide that have undergone our rigorous certification process which guarantee the facilities are expertly staffed, trained in the latest technologies, use high- quality tools and parts, and warranty their work for at least a year or 12,000 miles.
- brake repair
Expertise.com Rating
Why choose this provider?
Need help contacting a Auto Repair Shop in Rochester? Call our Concierge team at 848-Book-Pro (848-266-5776 from 6 am - 4 pm PT | Mon - Fri). They are standing by to help you get the service you need.
License: 7000687
Why choose this provider?
East Ave. Auto is a full-service repair facility that caters to clients in Rochester. Its ASE-certified technicians perform oil changes, fuel injection repairs, and alternator replacements. They utilize computerized diagnostic systems to identify problems with anti-lock brake and climate control systems. The company uses the Hunter P811 computer alignment machine to align wheels and vehicle-mounted air compressors for service trucks accurately. It also operates a fleet of pickup trucks to provide towing and roadside assistance to motorists.
- ASE Certified
License: 5280335
Why choose this provider?
Schrader's Garage has been providing general auto and light truck repair and maintenance services to vehicle owners in Rochester since 1932. The shop's services include scheduled maintenance, check engine light and tire pressure monitoring system diagnosis and repair, and lube, oil, and filter changes. Its automotive technicians also perform New York state inspections, conduct wheel alignments, handle electrical system components, and work on radiators, water pumps, and thermostats. They have experience working with domestic and Asian brands as well as imports like Volvo and Volkswagen.
- Smog Inspection
License: 7004020
Why choose this provider?
Ferrel's Garage, Inc., is a family-owned and family-operated business that caters to customers in the Rochester metro and nearby areas. Its ASE-certified staff keeps up-to-date with different car makes and models to help drivers maintain their vehicles. It carries out computerized engine analysis, cooling system repair, emission testing, tire rotation, tune-ups, and wheel alignment. The team also addresses problems with batteries, brakes, belts, exhaust systems, and radiators. Ferrel's Garage has been serving the community since 1981.
- ASE Certified
License: 7035824
Why choose this provider?
Schall's Automotive provides auto care solutions to clients in and around the Rochester area. Its team of ASE-certified technicians handles services ranging from general and state inspections to extensive repair and preventive care management. They also perform oil changes, engine diagnostics, front-end work, and brake system overhauls. Schall's Automotive was established in 1986 by Don Schall. His passion for cars started at a young age, bringing out his dedication to pursue and enter the automotive industry.
- Acura Service Center
- ASE Certified
- BMW Service Center
License: 7103338
Why choose this provider?
Elmer's Brighton Garage has been providing auto repair solutions to drivers in Rochester since 1932. It offers a wide selection of services for domestic and import vehicles, including car and truck care, and repair of transmissions, brakes, engines, electrical, and heating and cooling systems. Its team of certified technicians also assists in engine maintenance, quick lube services, and inspections and emissions. The company utilizes high-tech diagnostic equipment in order to get simple and complex repairs done quickly.
- ASE Certified
License: 7110731
Why choose this provider?
Auto Finishers Supply Co. is a car repair facility that has been family-owned and family-operated since 1969. The residents of Rochester are welcome to bring their vehicles to this full-service facility for routine inspections, brake repairs, or a new set of tires. Other services are wheel alignment, custom accessory installation, detailing, and tinting. The company's 17,000-square-foot warehouse maintains an inventory of headlights, taillights, wheels, tires, and audio/video systems. Auto Finishers Supply has an ASE Service Consultant and ASE Master Technician on staff.
License: 7115192
Why choose this provider?
Vargas Auto Repair & Collision caters to clients throughout Rochester and the neighboring metros. Its mechanics work on various makes and models of domestic and foreign vehicles, often handling issues related to engine and transmission, heating and cooling systems, brakes, and electronic systems. The facility also repairs vehicles that have been damaged as a result of collisions or accidents, and it provides towing services for vehicles that do not start due to bad weather or electrical issues. The company is a state-certified installer of Intoxalock Ignition Interlock devices.
- ASE Certified
License: 7053718
Why choose this provider?
Sam LoVetro Automotive handles all makes and models of vehicles, ranging from personal cars to large fleets. A recipient of the Top Shop Award from AAA from 2007 to 2018, the service center is committed to keeping Rochester motorists safe on the roads by providing quality repair and maintenance solutions. Since 1990, its ASE-certified technicians have been fixing mechanical issues on parts and components, including starters, suspensions, struts, shocks, and alternators. They also conduct computerized engine and electronic system analyses.
- State Inspection
License: 5280074
Why choose this provider?
Howard Road Garage is a local shop providing auto repair solutions to clients in and around Rochester. Its services include the repair of brakes, rotors, and exhaust pipes, as well as tune-ups. It specializes in air conditioning repair and builds custom air conditioning lines, stock compressors, R12 refrigerants, and condensers. It installs automotive accessories like cruise controls, power door locks, and heated seats. Howard Road Garage is a certified New York State Inspection station that has been in business since 1963.
- State Inspection
License: 7112735
Why choose this provider?
T & E Auto Repair & Sales offers a variety of solutions to car owners living in Rochester. The team fixes brakes and air conditioners to keep up the comfort and safety of personal vehicles. It has welders on hand for metalwork and computer diagnostic tools to locate the causes of malfunctions accurately. The company also changes motor oil and inspects automobiles to determine compliance with state emission regulations. It employs bilingual staff to cater to non-English speakers.
- ASE Certified
License: 7118953
Why choose this provider?
Basset’s responds to the automobile needs of vehicle owners in Rochester and its surrounding areas. The auto repair center addresses various issues, such as flat tires, squeaking brakes, fluid leakage, and low-temperature air conditioners. Its team of mechanics diagnoses, inspects, and troubleshoots the engine system. They handle domestic and foreign vehicles, including motorcycles, passenger cars, and trucks. Basset’s offers tire solutions, including wheel alignment, tire balancing, tire sales, and wheel mounting. It also provides towing services.
- ASE Certified
License: 7060885
Why choose this provider?
Vogel's Collision provides auto repair services. The Rochester-based shop takes in vehicles that have been involved in collisions, requiring glass replacement, frame realignment, paint restoration, and paint-less dent removal. Its team also performs radiator replacement, interior and exterior detailing, air conditioning service, welding, and tire replacement. Its staff comprises ASE- and I-CAR-certified technicians who use a computerized paint-matching system and wax auto bodies by hand or machine. Vogel's Collision has been restoring vehicles to their pre-damaged condition since 1948.
- State Inspection
- Smog Inspection
License: 5280102
Why choose this provider?
Fetzner Collision has been providing the Rochester metro with auto repair services since 1948. The company specializes in body and collision repairs for unibody and full-frame vehicles, using Car-O-Liner Car bench systems to restore vehicles to factory dimensions. The company's team also offers mechanical services in-house, including suspension wheel bearing, air conditioning, and electrical services. Fetzner Collision is a family-owned and operated business and has been in operation for three generations of the Fetzner family.
- ASE Certified
License: 7058830
Why choose this provider?
Morris Auto offers car repair and maintenance services to drivers in Rochester. Its technicians inspect and repair engines, electrical components, and computer systems; conduct diagnostic tests to check transmissions, brakes, throttle, and ignition coils; change oils; fix brakes; maintain and repair AC and heater; and inspect steering and suspension systems. They keep car owners updated about their vehicles via text. Morris Auto offers collision services, from dent and scratch repairs to body painting. The company has been around for over four decades.
- Smog Inspection
License: 7090330
Why choose this provider?
Blaesi's Automotive, Inc. serves the local community of Rochester and its surrounding areas. Its team of ASE-certified technicians helps customers fix problems with their cars by offering auto repair services. These include brake replacement, computer flashing, engine diagnostics, and oil change. It also offers wheel alignment, which includes inspecting suspension and steering system components, adjusting camber and toe angles per manufacturer specifications, and testing the vehicle. Blaesi's Automotive works on transmissions to extend the life of a vehicle.
- AAA Certified
- ASE Certified
License: 7020782
Why choose this provider?
Austin-Spencer Automotive Collision Repair Center has been serving Rochester motorists for over three decades. The facility, which began as a two-bay garage and has since grown to a 20-bay garage, caters to the mechanical repair needs of parts and components such as brakes, radiators, suspensions, and belts. Its ASE-approved mechanics also restore accident-damaged vehicles, performing frame straightening, rust proofing, and windshield replacement services. Apart from repairing cars and trucks, the professionals also offer boat services. The company is a sponsor of the RIT hockey team.
- ASE Certified
License: 7023666
Why choose this provider?
Since 1972, Emerson Collision has been restoring damaged passenger cars and SUVs in Rochester. The auto shop utilizes various frame machines, including Shark Sonar Computerized Measuring Systems and Kansas Jack Unibody-Frame Machines, to repair the technical structure of vehicles. Its technicians, who have more than 100 years of collective industry experience, use a color-analyzing camera to tint and mix a car's finish to its color match. Emerson Collision also provides towing and car rental services.
- ASE Certified
License: 7121876
Why choose this provider?
Sofia is an auto repair shop that caters to clients in the Rochester metro and the surrounding communities. Its team of technicians performs small and big car collision work and mechanical repairs to help drivers get their vehicles back to their pre-accident condition. Its services include battery and engine maintenance, tire and transmission repair, and state inspections. It also works on air conditioners, brakes, filters, and fuel systems. Sofia works with companies like Hertz and Enterprise, allowing it to offer rental car services.
- Smog Inspection
- State Inspection
Compare our Top Auto Repair Shops
Name | Expertise Rating | Address | Promotions | Learn more |
---|---|---|---|---|
Car Genius | Free Consultation | View More | ||
East Ave. Auto | 1656 East Avenue, Rochester, NY14610 | View More | ||
Schrader's Garage | 686 Clinton Ave S, Rochester, NY14620 | View More | ||
Ferrel's Garage, Inc. | 365 University Ave, Rochester, NY14607 | View More | ||
Schall's Automotive | 149 E Ridge Rd., Rochester, NY14621 | View More | ||
Elmer's Brighton Garage | 1848 Monroe Ave., Rochester, NY14618 | View More | ||
Auto Finishers Supply Co. | 1711 Clinton Avenue N., Rochester, NY14621 | View More | ||
Vargas Auto Repair & Collision | 62 LaGrange Ave, Rochester, NY14613 | View More | ||
Sam LoVetro Automotive | 44 Richmond St, Rochester, NY14607 | View More | ||
Howard Road Garage | 51 Howard Road, Rochester, NY14606 | View More | ||
T & E Auto Repair & Sales | 1104 N. Clinton Ave., Rochester, NY14621 | View More | ||
Basset’s | 1730 Lyell Ave, Rochester, NY14606 | View More | ||
Vogel's Collision | 100 Winton Road North, Rochester, NY14610 | View More | ||
Fetzner Collision | 2485 Dewey Ave., Rochester, NY14616 | View More | ||
Morris Auto | 52 Lightfoot St, Rochester, NY14623 | View More | ||
Blaesi's Automotive, Inc. | 981 Hudson Ave, Rochester, NY14621 | View More | ||
Austin-Spencer Automotive Collision Repair Center | 2433 Brighton-Henrietta Townline Rd., Rochester, NY14623 | View More | ||
Emerson Collision | 2589 Ridgeway Ave, Rochester, NY14626 | View More | ||
Sofia | 20 Palmer Street, Rochester, NY14609 | View More |
FAQs
Introduction
Automobiles have increasingly become a necessary convenience. They can also be extremely frustrating when not operating properly. Knowing the basics of car maintenance can help you make informed decisions as you move forward.
One key point to understand is the difference between auto body and auto repair shops. Auto body shops focus only on the body, or the nonmoving parts of the vehicle. Auto body technicians repair dents in doors and fenders and replace broken windshields.
Auto repair shops handle the components that contribute to powering the vehicle or making it stop. Auto mechanics maintain and repair components, such as electrical wiring, engines, transmissions, and brakes.
What maintenance does a car need annually?
Some routine maintenance, such as an oil change, is recommended every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, and other services, such as belts, hoses, and fuel filters, should be addressed quarterly. Annual upkeep includes brake and suspension checks. Specific maintenance depends on the miles driven and the vehicle's age. Consult the car's service manual for more detailed guidelines.
What does it mean when your car says maintenance is required?
The vehicle's maintenance required light comes on at specific mileage intervals. If the car's been driven more than 4,500 miles, it might illuminate to remind you that an oil change is necessary to maintain optimal performance. The maintenance required alert differs from the check engine light, which appears for specific operating issues that need to be addressed.
How much should I budget for car maintenance?
While AAA recommends setting aside $1,200 a year ($50 a month to cover auto maintenance and another $50 for repairs), much depends on the make and condition of the specific vehicle. A basic oil change and filter is approximately $50. However, the same service for a Mercedes-Benz costs as much as $200, according to The Detroit Bureau.
Keeping up with routine maintenance will help prevent some major repairs, but components such as timing belts and brakes ultimately need to be replaced, putting a $400 to $900 dent in your wallet.
What kind of maintenance do electric cars need?
Monthly maintenance should comprise checking the tire pressure and windshield wiper fluid. At 7,500 miles, the battery, power inverter, cabin heater, and charger modules' coolant levels need to be checked. A visual inspection of the vehicle's other moving parts, such as the power steering and suspension, should also be included.
Can you negotiate car repairs at a dealership?
Dealerships use a sales or service writer management team to estimate parts and labor repair costs. Their mechanics focus on repairing the vehicle. While it's possible to negotiate a more palatable rate with dealerships, their preset pricing systems are more structured than independent shops. It pays to be prepared with cost comparisons.
Is car repair insurance worth the cost?
Car repair insurance typically covers the repair of mechanical breakdowns, such as air conditioning, electrical and fuel systems, engines, and transmissions. The caveat is that a standard car repair insurance policy only covers a vehicle up to 72,000 miles, according to Forbes. Few vehicles experience major mechanical problems under 100,000 miles, and if they do, they're usually covered under warranty.
Do auto repair shops offer payment plans?
Each repair shop has its own payment policies. Some shops may allow scheduled payments, while others offer credit through a partnership with a specific lending agency. Additional options include using a credit card or a personal line of credit. It could be possible to negotiate a discount, however, if you pay in cash.
What repairs will car insurance cover?
Liability insurance policies only cover the other vehicle's repair costs, if you're at fault. Collision and comprehensive insurance typically cover your vehicle's repairs if damaged in an accident or a natural disaster, such as a fire or flood. Car insurance doesn't cover vehicle maintenance and repairs, such as tuneups and oil changes.
What damage is not covered by car insurance?
Routine maintenance for wear and tear, such as replacing brakes, is typically not covered by car insurance. Likewise, mechanical failures like a blown engine would not be included in a standard auto policy. Most insurance policies don't cover damages from natural disasters, including hurricanes and earthquakes.
What is included in a car maintenance service?
Depending on your car's mileage and condition, car maintenance service may include a tuneup and replacing belts and hoses. Additionally, oil, brake, and power steering fluids are replaced or topped off, as needed. Flushing and replacing radiator coolant should also be part of the routine maintenance cycle.
How much is a car maintenance service?
A study conducted by AAA concluded that a new car's annual maintenance and repairs average $0.09 per mile. Driving 10,000 miles per year, that equates to $900, while 15,000 miles comes to $1,350. Setting aside a specific monthly amount helps to balance the costs of oil changes and windshield wiper, battery, brake, and tire replacement.
Can a mechanic keep an unsafe car?
A mechanic has the right to keep a vehicle if the customer owes for repairs. However, it's not legal to keep your car if the shop finds something wrong with it, and you choose not to have the repairs done. A mechanic may ask you to sign a release if you choose to drive an unsafe car off the premises.
Can you sue a mechanic for bad work?
You can sue a mechanic if the vehicle wasn't fixed properly, or they charged you for work that wasn't completed. A mechanic is legally responsible for providing customers with a detailed estimate of the work to be done, including repair costs, and disclosing whether the parts are used or rebuilt.
Is an auto technician a mechanic?
An auto technician is a mechanic with a more advanced skill set. Generally, a mechanic handles basic mechanical duties, such as replacing brakes and changing oil. While an auto technician is also equipped to complete those tasks, they're also trained to diagnose electrical issues and identify drivability problems.
What does an auto technician do?
An auto technician inspects and repairs a variety of vehicles, including those that are powered by gas and alternative fuel and electric and hybrid energy. Technicians may use computerized diagnostic equipment to identify mechanical and electrical concerns. They test and lubricate the engine and repair and replace worn parts.
How much do mechanic technicians make?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the median annual salary for automotive technicians was $44,050, or $21.18 per hour in 2020. That equates to the lower 10% earning $25,790 and the upper 10% in the $71,940 annual salary range.
How long does it take to become an auto technician?
Automotive technicians typically complete a two-year associate's training program at a community college or technical school, with a focus on auto technology or repair. Individuals may also opt for a certificate program that can be completed in less than a year.
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