Alvarez Automotive Repair and Smog - Santa Barbara (CA)

5 /5 Mitchell Kaplan: We needed a star certified smog check and Alvarez meets those requirements. But because our engine light was on, the car had to be checked out first The owner, Gaspar ( it’s a family busy with his son and wife also working there)) was so gracious and direct in telling us his diagnosis. They fixed it, we passed smog test and we were treated like VIPs. I thoroughly recommend them .

5 /5 Raphael Radna: Im so glad I found Alvarez Automotive. After several years of not being able to pass smog, Gaspar actually made the effort to diagnose and replace my cars failing emissions components. Another place wanted to charge me way more to replace the catalytic converters, which I now know wouldnt even have solved the problem! Gaspar is not only a very capable mechanic, but also very pleasant; I sensed his integrity in every interaction. He was very accessible throughout the process; he never rushed our communication, and answered every question I had clearly and patiently. I highly recommend Alvarez Automotive!

1 /5 Sam Kligman: Your relationship with your auto mechanic is built on trust, mutual respect, and high-quality customer service. Alvarez automotive broke all three with me recently so I will not be going back. I traveled 2 hours from out of town to have allegiance to this mechanic. I booked an appointment weeks in advance to be there at 8 AM and have the owner of the shop look at my car to fix a problem THEY created by doing an oil change and pump repair. When I showed up the owner not only wasn’t there as promised, his staff checked out the car with me and acted like nothing was wrong with it when I’ve driven the car for 10+ years and KNOW for certain something is wrong. It’s a v6 and has no pickup now. The staff had the audacity to tell me seems like normal car sounds and drives normal without ever looking under the hood. They told me I had to leave my car there the whole day when I have things planned and then estimated $150 to look into the issue. I don’t like writing bad reviews, but I felt neither respected nor appreciated for my business. This shop has gotten too big for its britches and too busy to pay attention to its customers. I will be getting my car repaired elsewhere and will not refer to this business.

5 /5 Douglas Wilson: My trusty old GMC truck which I need for work suddenly lost power and broke down on the road last week. Had it towed to Alvarez just before closing time. By the end of the next day it was home with a new fuel pump and running great. Galvan offered me options and stayed late so I could pick it up after work. I am grateful for the speedy and high quality service.

5 /5 McCune Patrick (Patrick): Honest repair shop. No big upsell, they do quality work at a fair price. It sounds simple but not all shops do that. Gaspar and his crew are local hard working people who will help you keep your vehicle in good shape.