Car Repair Reviews From Santa Rosa & Beyond
These are just a few reviews from our valued car service & repair customers throughout Sonoma County.
All reviews
Yelp
TrustindexPosted on Google
Robert-Connie Mullan15 October 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
needed a certificate for DMV. Charged shop rate for three hours for service I suspect took mich less time.Posted on Google
craig alness4 October 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Great service, quality work, reasonable prices. I bring my grandma's 1972 Chevelle in every year and trust this team to take good care of this very special car.Posted on Google
K Beau29 September 2026Wonderful experience all the way around. Did a diagnostic on my older Lexus and provided a detailed report of all its foibles and best way to proceed. From initial phone call to picking up car after, truly an exceptional experience. Thank you!!Posted on Google
Michael Voight27 September 2026Easy to tow in car. Called me and asked what the issue seemed to be and fixed the problem. They pushed an oil change and air filter change but was quite a bit overpriced. Over $300 for both. I understand they need to make money but be wary of that. Otherwise they did good and fast work.Posted on Google
Pat Pointer18 September 2026Had a great experience and felt well informed about my F-150 EcoBoost repair options for a coolant leak that caused the engine to overheat. I wasn’t feeling my best while facing the consequences of my truck requiring major repairs. The detailed estimate broke down every cost, from clips and hoses to labor, so there were no surprises. My questions were welcomed, and they took the time to explain what to expect. The staff and management were friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely helpful. I especially appreciated the straightforward, low-pressure approach compared with some of my past dealership experiences. Highly recommend!Posted on Google
shannon stegner11 September 2026I had to tow my vehicle into Tristar at 4pm the Friday before a holiday weekend. I was stranded in the side of the road and didn’t know who to call so, after a brief google search, I called Tristar. They let me know I’d could have my car towed over and it could stay over the long weekend but that they’d get back to me with an update as quickly as possible upon return from the holiday. As promised they did get back to me and let me know that the situation with my car was something that was actually covered by the maker of my vehicle via a class action lawsuit / extended warranty fix (my car is 1.5 yrs out of manufacture warranty). They told me to go ahead and make an appt with a local dealership and let me know exactly what to ask for re: this extended warranty. Additionally, they didn’t charge me for the diagnostic time it took them to identify the situation. I’m incredibly appreciative of their responsiveness and honesty in a moment that was very unexpected and stressful. They absolutely have my business from here out!Posted on Google
Harold Duncan29 August 2026Very efficient and professional work…Staff is very kind and friendly as well…l had a Smog check…Posted on Google
James Fitzgerald22 August 2026Great service and communication, thank you Team TriStar! Reliable and always stand behind their work and dedication, delivered with kindness and customer satisfaction!Posted on Google
julie berman19 August 2026Left the dealership where I purchased my car and became a new customer of TriStar. They could not have been nicer, and their fees were very reasonable. Color me very pleased with my overall experience.Posted on Google
H P Mechanical14 August 2026We have used tri star for many years, for service for our service fleet. We have found them to be honest, fair, efficient and they always keep you in the loop of your repair.Posted on Google
Mark Jones29 July 2026There good and fast!Posted on Google
Stephen Riedel28 July 2026I have had a couple recent repairs here including the catalytic converter and brake booster on my ‘98 Tacoma. I’ve been impressed by how responsive, timely, knowledgeable and professional the shop owners are! Thank you for all the high quality work you guys have done! It is much appreciated even though the issues have been unanticipated. It’s been a pricey last six months for me with all the vehicle repairs, but I’m trying to keep it running well for at least another 100K miles. 👍🏻 I hope I don’t have to come in anytime soon… :)Posted on Google
MaryLou Herrera26 July 2026I received good service. I felt comfortable and confident with the service I received.Posted on Google
Diane Castro15 July 2026My first experience was great! Ken was professional and fast. I needed a new catalytic converter in my 2014 Kia so it could pass the smog test - Ken was communicative and friendly. I love that they have a company Uber account so I could be taken home after I dropped my car off.Posted on Google
Chip Smith11 July 2026Ken & Zac got me in quickly, diagnosed my issues, and got me back on the road tootsweet - pardon my french. (They even laughed at my corny jokes! Thanks, guys...😇) My problem turned out to be much less serious than I thought, and they were in contact with me the through the entire process. AND they got me a rideshare to and from! If you want a shop with friendly, reliable folks, you won't go wrong with TriStar!Posted on Google
William Keim9 July 2026TriStar Automotive began with an oil change. Most recently I received more service to my car. It needed the attention and TriStar Automotive provided exceptional service. I would highly recommend TriStar to anyone looking for quality, honesty, and integrity.Posted on Yelp
Theresa M.6 July 2026Verified
I needed to have my Exotic car's DMV exhaust certification renewed. The car is an 1988. I have quite a bit of angst when every two years the certification has to be renewed. I took the car to TRISTAR. They were WONDERFUL!! They felt my concern. The car passed with flying colors, twice at this time! The people who own/work at Tristar are master mechanics! They were kind enough to give me a referral for an excellent Exotic car repair shop. Since moving to Sonoma County eight years ago I have been in convulsions on where to take my car for engine repairs. Tristar's recommendation was another star on their rating. They should receive 10 stars!!!Posted on Google
Kathleen Austin3 July 2026Excellent service !!! As always, For years and years to come... Thank you 😊Posted on Google
Mollie Bruno2 July 2026Fast and friendly service. Very happy and have smog cert for DMV :)Posted on Google
Richard Deacon23 June 2026Staff and mechanics were all great and first class Nothing was a problem and so helpful Would highly recommended Tristan at anyone Thanks again for your help⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Posted on Google
Andrew 1522 June 2026I was searching for mobile mechanics to help me inspect a vehicle that I was purchasing out of state. The quotes were high, and the reviews were mixed, And I really wanted to get the vehicle up on a lift. The shop was right down from the dealership, and the dealership offered to drive it for the inspection. Boy did everything work out great. Tristar was very easy to work with. They were fair priced, and even stuck with a miss quote That was advantageous to me. The vehicle got dropped off late, and they were still able to accommodate once the inspection was done, we got on the phone and talked about the vehicle. Everything went as we had hoped. I wish this shop was in state for me. Highly recommend themPosted on Google
greg21 June 2026tristar did troubleshooting of my hard shifting transmission and faulty temp gauge. they fixed both problems. charges were fair and communication was great with ken, the service manager. definitely recommend this shop for their professionalism and knowledge. this is the shop my local mechanic recommends when he runs into a problem that he can't fix!Posted on Google
Rodger Magill1 June 2026had a repair and retest for smog. polite knowledgeable and very friendly.Posted on Google
David Conley23 May 2026Excellent service ! They are very friendly , efficient , and have done excellent work on my car. Thank you! MelaniePosted on Google
Sharon Robison22 May 2026An excellent business that takes great care of its customers. I trust what they say needs to be done to the car. Have used Tristar for many years and have never been disappointedPosted on Google
Susan Keehn20 May 2026I went back to this shop after going elsewhere because the other shop had a loaner car. Now, this shop will pay for uber/lyft to give you ride. Not as good as loaner, but good. I was very happy with service advisor Ken. Happy that my car is good as new again.Posted on Google
Wendy Walker18 May 2026The guys at TriStar are always pleasant and accommodating. They are honest and fair. I highly recommend this business.Posted on Google
Theresa Martinelli12 May 2026The annoying 2 year auto emission DMV certification for my current visit. These guys are wonderful! I drove in at 11:00a, out in 1/2 hour!! They are helpful, giving referrals for exotic car repairs if they do not perform the work. Fun, cheery, professional, knowledgeable people!! When I take my cars to Tristar, I know the work will be superb!Posted on Google
Melissa Johnson12 May 2026After driving cross country with a car that had brakes recently installed (incorrectly), which caused damage to our parking brake and brake fluid lines, Tristar saved us from a potentially very dangerous situation. They were honest, incredibly professional and went above and beyond to help our whole family. Thank you!!Posted on Google
Connie Vasquez27 April 2026Zac at Tristar was friendly and very informative. He explained to us how the pre purchased inspection was going to go, gave us a time period and how much it was going to cost. The inspection was thorough along with pictures, it was done in less time than expected and the cost was under what was estimated. Overall we were very happy with our experience.Posted on Google
Jackie A22 April 2026I love bringing my car to TriStar, they are always friendly and knowledgeable.Posted on Google
Rhonda Honsa8 April 2026I completely rely on TriStar Automotive for all service needs on my Dodge Ram. Last week I had the tail gate latch repaired, an oil change and rear brakes and rotors. This company is very organized, reasonably priced and treats you like family. The multi point inspections keep you informed on what to expect and plan for future service. I highly recommend TriStar.Posted on Google
Don Cheek30 March 2026I had a concerning sound coming from the front of the engine. Tristar diagnosed the issue and.promptly fixed the issue for a reasonable price.Posted on Google
Nancy25 March 2026My husband and I have been taking our vehicles to Tri Star for many, many years and trust them completely. They are professional and so helpful - we recommend them to everyone we know. Jim passed on his legacy of excellence when he retired so we won’t be taking our cars anywhere else.Posted on Google
Byron Blodgett23 March 2026The front desk crew were friendly,knowledgeable and helpful. I also bumped into one of the mechanics and he was also nice and courteous. The work was completed as promised and I left feeling confident that I could take my roadtrip without worrying about my vehicle.Posted on Google
Jason Lea23 March 2026Great service at a good price.Posted on Google
Jerry Andersen20 March 2026Tri Star did a good job on my car. They are honest and reliable is why I have my car service there.Posted on Yelp
Patricia B.3 November 2025I asked that they check my car before I left for a road trip. They were very busy but worked me in so I could keep to my scheduled departure date. They did a beautiful job & fixed all the concerns I had. I've found my new shop. I will be going there for all my automotive needs. You will be pleased. Patricia B.Posted on Yelp
Joe Rosetti B.25 September 2025Great, friendly, and wonderful service. No games, no BS. Where other auto shops try to squeeze you out of every penny, Tristar genuinely wanted to and did help me with my car troubles. Couldn't recommend this place more!Posted on Yelp
Jeanne F.13 August 2025I had to have a vehicle Safety Systems inspection done on my car. There are few places in Sonoma county that do this. I had an appt. with another place in Sebastopol, set to drop off when I got a call that they had to reschedule. I canceled and called Tri Star - they immediately got me an appt., and the car what done in no time. Martha was so kind and helpful. I appreciate the treatment I received at Tri Star!!!Posted on Yelp
Craig H.6 April 2025In 2023 I brought our 1981 Buick Riviera convertible into #TristarAutomotive for a SMOG test. While there, they found a bunch of other crap including rear breaks. I trusted them on their diagnosis. So, flash forward to 2025.... today, I was driving down #StoneyPoint Road, and this dude in a White Nissan Van pulls to the right, into the bike lane.... and then makes an amazing left U-Turn in front of me. OMFG! I have never - NEVER ever hit the breaks and horn So hard!! And when he looked out his window at me, he never as much as acknowledged me. Screeching, tire smoke and noise later, he kept going. I am SO grateful that the team at TriStar Automotive helped me with the breaks on our car. Because I seriously see our car getting totaled because of this d-head.+1Posted on Yelp
Keith R.4 April 2025This is our "go to" shop for older challenging vehicles as well as new. Their brain trust of mechanics and vehicle knowledge is second to none.Posted on YelpBob S.28 March 2025 I have been taking my car and truck to try star for eight or nine years now . I keep coming back because of their top notch mechanics and great office manager Martha .Jim Dados recently sold the business but the staff is still there .Posted on Yelp
Julianne E.5 March 2025I went to Tristar for a routine oil change. The service I received was stellar. Ken and Martha work in the office and they are kind, accommodating, and inviting. They provided me with detailed information about what my car needed while being mindful of cost and time. The service Tristar provided was quick and professional. Upon completion, I was impressed to see that my front seats and floor had been vacuumed and the dash had even been cleaned and wiped down. I have some other large things I need done on my car and will absolutely be coming back for these services. Highly recommend bringing your car in for simple oil changes or larger automotive services!Posted on Yelp
Scottie H.27 February 2025Been coming here for a long time and wouldn't recommend anyone else in Sonoma county to bring your car to. The work is always top notch and the prices are as fair as can be, especially in today's world. The work tri star provides has let me stay in my same car for almost 15 years! Amazing work and amazing people!Posted on Yelp
Craig H.12 February 2025Our Buick Riviera went in today for a SMOG. Happily, with a new Catalytic Converter Sybil passed. The friendliest and most knowledgeable group I have dealt with. Ken and his team made me feel comfortable that a 1981 car wasn't related to the devil.+1Posted on YelpDiana C.16 January 2025I contacted Tristar to set up an appointment for my radiator to be checked, I spoke with an amazing woman named Martha. She went above and beyond to help me out, she was very thorough with her questioning, and compassionate to my situation. I took my vehicle in to be checked, I did not expect for it to be done on the same day as I knew they were very busy, to my delight, Martha contacted me that same morning with the diagnosis. They are a top notch establishment, clean, organized, stellar customer service. I would recommend them to anyone who is looking for car repair. I am sure you will get the same amazing customer service from Martha, the owner and the mechanics.Posted on Yelp
Paul A.1 October 2024I was in a bind. I needed my car for work and they went above and beyond the call of duty. My car failed the smog check. I got consumer assistance through the BAR. My letter of approval from the BAR expired. Tri star called the BAR and got it renewed. You must understand the process of repairing a car with BAR assistance usually takes a week. Tri star got my car done in one day because they knew I needed the car for work. They are amazing. Amazing customer service and knowledge. Kierstin AdelmanPosted on Yelp
Miranda M.19 July 2024I love Tri Star!! I found him from my coworker who already said he was trusted. He does what your car needs, not what could be done to make more money from you. Good, quick work for competitive prices!Posted on Yelp
Scott M.6 March 2023I'm the type of person who can usually take care of the basic stuff. I have a background in electronics and electrical repair, as well some mechanics and machining. I'm a DIY/wrencher, but there are times when I hit the wall and can't solve a problem. That's where Tri Star comes in. There are times when I need an expert to step in and take care of things for me, and in that case - I take my cars to Tri Star. They've been around for a long time, and they have a great staff of knowledgeable technicians. It may take a few days to get an appointment, but I have always found them super helpful and reasonably priced - which seems like a rare combination these days. I've always found them super friendly, and the last time I had my truck in - they found a bulb that was out when they were parking it, and took a few extra minutes to fix it at no charge. If you need help with your auto - give them a try!Posted on YelpSheila M.26 February 2023My car would not start and so after calling a tow truck and getting a jump the tow truck driver told me that I needed a new battery. He suggested that he could order one but that it would not be in for a week or so. In the mean time I would not be able to drive my car. In a panic I called Jim Baddus the owner of Tri Star. They have always serviced my car in the past and have always done a great job. Jim was so great. He told me to bring the car in right away and that he would call his distributor to get the battery. Jim also said that it was going to be more then just replacing the battery the car needed to be programed again. I had to wait a while but it was my pleasure. Jim and his team were doing me a HUGE favor. With their busy schedule they were able to fit me in and fix my car. With in a couple of hours I was back in the road again. Great customer service, great team, everyone is super knowledgeable! This is the only place that I trust.Posted on Yelp
Brandy E.28 December 2021Jim and team are professional and courteous. Work with them on work and personal vehicles. They provide outstanding customer service. I highly recommend Tri-Star.Posted on YelpPat O.17 December 2021I've known this company for over 20 years never ever have had a problem very responsive does all my family cars absolutely trust Jim and the team!Posted on Yelp
Pixie C.7 October 2021Jim is just the best. I've been using the original dealership for years and have never been quite happy with the service since about the fourth year. I've kept up on scheduled maintenance and oil changes over the years. The dealership quoted $6,000.+ for and "issue with the wiring." Jim charged me less than $150. for a part and installation. Problem solved. More recently, I took my 2003 Toyota 4Runner in for a overall check-up. Like me, she's getting old. Only a bit of minor work was required and done in a day. I cannot recommend them high enough! Just the best auto repair place within 100 miles. Honest, knowledgeable and thorough.Posted on YelpWendy W.6 August 2021This is my second review for TriStar Automotive. I can't say enough about the "last honest" auto shop. I absolutely love Jim and his crew. They are the best in the business and the most reasonably priced mechanic shop in the county. I've been going to them for about 3 years now and my 16 year old car runs great. I recently went to TriStar for a minor issue that was my fault. I pulled up too close in a parking spot and the front bumper went slightly over a wooden railing so when I reversed, the windshield wiper storage tank started to leak out and the bumper was slightly pulled out on one side. I took if to Jim to fix. I picked up my car and the bumper looked like new, the wiper fluid light was off and Jim said "no charge" when I got there. Who does that? I didn't know what damage I did to the windshield wiper storage tank. He could have said that it was cracked and they had to replace it; etc., but Jim is honest. He said the plug came out of the windshield wiper storage tank so they filled it with washer fluid, plugged it and put a pin back in the bumper that had pooped off. Even though the repair was minimal, his guy still had to deal with it and take some time out to fix it but he didn't charge me a dime. I'm telling you, these guys are the BEST!!!Posted on Yelp
Jennifer B.26 May 2021The best place ever! Jim is honest and does an amazing job! My family has been taking our cars here forever!Posted on YelpPaul E. L.13 April 2021My daughter recommended Tristar years ago and I've never been disappointed in their work. I love my very old Mazda and no matter how silly or serious the problem is, they fix it. Recently I called Jim when the oil I added was gone the next morning. "Bring it over," Jim told me. A mechanic checked it out, couldn't find anything wrong, added oil and I was instructed to bring it back if the problem recurred. It hasn't. They have earned my highest opinion, which is, I trust them and my Mazda loves them. Ann L.Posted on Yelp
Emily B.19 May 2020Highly recommend - went elsewhere and they quoted me a LARGE amount without even looking at my car, and even larger amount after looking. A coworker recommended this location. I called the same-day (Friday, they fit me in early the following week. Extremely professional, reasonably priced, honest. Can not recommend enough.+0Posted on Yelp
Scott B.25 February 2020These guys are the best. I will never take my Jeep anywhere else. I had been struggling with an issue for 3 years. 3 different shops.one was the dealership in Chico. They fixed it fast. No more problems. I highly recommend Tristar!Posted on Yelp
John P.6 September 2019the only place to go... they do me a great job every time. they keep my 93 mercury villager running like new. honest and fair prices, with excellent trouble shooting and repair. thanks tri star!Posted on Yelp
Joe C.17 August 2019Took my truck to Tri-Star automotive they fixed my truck the first time around the service was five-star very nice reception when I brought my truck in , it's nice to trust in a place that you give them the keys to your vehicle knowing that they will be honest and fair on the repairs thank you Tri-Star auto motive.Posted on YelpSteve S.26 June 2019My 17 year old Honda died with zero warning right on the Hwy 116 at the passing lanes. A worse spot i could not have selected on a map. Turns out my timing belt snapped and reeked havoc on my valves. My usual mechanic doesn't do valve jobs so he recommend Jim D and his Tri-Star automotive. And i'm glad he did as this turned out to be one of the best auto repair selections i ever made. Jim and his staff of mechanics occupy an impressive looking garage up on Kenwood Ct. They gave me the best estimate i found (i checked 2 others) so i left them the car. Three days later the Honda was fixed to perfection and it came in exactly on the estimate. This Tri-Star is a Five Star folks. If you have major work, be sure to swing by Tri-Star and give them a shot at it.Posted on YelpDavid D.29 December 2018I have been taking my cars to Tri Star for 27 years, I have referred friends and family to them, trusted the work on my children's cars to them and even mechanical work on my classic car. They have never been any less than courteous and professional in their dealings and everyone I have referred to them has been extremely pleased with their work and professionalism. They are the best at solving problems that seem unsolvable. I would refer anyone who needs repairs on their vehicle to Tri Star Automotive.Posted on Yelp
dario s.8 December 2018I have been taking my antique cars to them for years. They are competent, honest, and personable to deal with. I can't think of another shop that could work on cars like mine, and do it with aplomb. It is a great feeling to have complete trust in a business, and this is one place that I have no reservations about either their work, nor about recommending them to others.Posted on YelpWinnie P.19 August 2018The saddest part of my decision to lease a new car is that I am required to now go to the dealer. Jim and TRISTAR gave me impeccable service for the past 15 years, and three cars. I have referred friends, and everyone has been equally satisfied. I hate to end this trusted relationship, and will go back in a heartbeat if I should need their services again. My best incident happened less than a year ago, when my electronic car key stopped working and I went to the dealer, thinking I had to. I was told I had to pay $600 just to diagnose the problem. I left, figuring I'd use the manual key forever if need be. When I told Jim at my next oil change, he checked it out and provided a $15 fix! What can I say? Thank you Jim and TRISTAR for many years of great service. I'm delighted that the secret is out and you are BUSY! Many blessings, your happy longtime customer, Winnie PPosted on Yelp
Brandon J.4 December 2017I have used Tri Star Automotive since I have started to drive at age sixteen. I have used them for anything from simple oil changes and tire rotations to my cars breaking down completely, even being flooded by a flash flood one winter. There team there is like family and welcomes me by name every time I walk in there. They even would remember things about my life and ask how college is going. They have always been reasonable in price and dependable in their work. I moved away recently and still go to them when I visit my family in the area for check ups on my car because I know that I can trust them.Posted on Yelp
John Barry J.20 November 2017This company is fantastic! I wish more companies where is honorable and professional as these guys. I would recommend TriStar to anybody. They worked on my cars and my company's cars for more then 10 years and I don't have one complaint.Posted on YelpChris B.16 August 2016We have known Jim at Tri Star for many years and once again his mechanics have shown how expert they really are at diagnostics. My Lincoln Navigator needed a freon recharge and since our local service station said they would be able to do the job took it to them twice. Once to get it filled and then again refilled but they were unable to detect the leak. Jim's experts after a great deal of checking found a tiny small leak in the Lincoln only supply hose. It was so small as almost undetectable. We now have wonderfully cool air on those 100 degree days. Thanks JimPosted on Yelp
Tom S.4 August 2016Another well deserved 5 star rating. Appointment to service your vehicle absolutely necessary. The shop is usually booked for a full week out. Prices are very reasonable. My previous B1 service for my Honda at the dealership cost $187. Same exact service here at Tri Star was $80.45. Nice, friendly and knowledgeable service manager gave me helpful information. I waited for my car to be serviced in the customer room. Lots of magazines on the table to browse. Total wait time was 80 minutes. That beat my previous too long visit at Honda by a full hour. Tri Star will service any make or model. Highly recommended!Posted on YelpTim W.21 June 2016Neighbor recommended I go to Tri Star to get my truck smogged. Had appointment to drop truck off for the day at 8am. It was good to go at 10am. Fast, friendly, no BS. Highly recommend these guys!Posted on YelpBarry S.25 March 2016Tristar Automotive is the best Auto Repair shop I have ever used! -- anywhere- I grew up with TriStar - my mother many years ago entrusted Jim, Ron and Rick to repair her old Pontiac - They did and the rest is history - Unfortunately I moved across the continent - and there I received a big dose of reality- the Auto Repair world can be inconsistent. Fortunately my (45+ year old) Triumph stayed here in Sonoma County and was restored and modified per my wishes to better than ever condition. I will continue to trust the tender and loving hands of Jim, Rick, Ron and company at TriStar- with any and all of my rides. Excellent! And thank you!!Posted on Yelp
Dominic M.5 October 2015Jim and Rick are very good at what they do. They were recommended to me by a good friend and client of mine who likes things done right the first time. I have a few classic custom cars and some pretty high end new performance cars. I would trust them with any of them. They did an awesome job assisting me with tightening up all of my loose ends on my 69 Pro Touring Camaro. All done now! Time to start another. See you guys soon and thanks very much.+0Load more
