Sal’s Auto ER

Been going to Sal’s for about 20 years. They always do right by you. Best to make appointment to help ensure they have the parts you need and time to get the job done. Can usually provide ride service to/​from, or can wait in reasonably comfortable waiting room w/​coffee/​tea and WiFi. Not inexpensive, but reasonable and occasionally run coupons & promos.
I’ve had the following types of work done, on Acura, Toyota Prius, even Saab: oil changes, tuneups, head replacement, tire mounting/​balancing, water pumps, HID headlight replacement (ouch!!), brakes, shocks/​struts.

I have a 2009 Honda Accord and a 1996 Nissan pickup and have been going to Sal’s for all major work for about six years. When I just need an oil change, I usually go someplace where I have a coupon. A couple of times, in addition to an oil change, I have been told I need other work done. On these occasions, I have gone to Sal’s and have been told the work was not necessary. Four years ago, Sal’s replaced the clutch in the pick up. Just recently, this clutch failed, and the failure was three years beyond Sal’s warranty. Not only did the clutch need to be replaced, but so did the fly wheel which was very difficult to remove. Sal’s charged for only the parts which I thought was very fair. Based on my experience over the years, this is the only place in Gainesville I will go for auto repairs.

While driving from Tampa to New Orleans in our 1992 Porsche 968, our wipers broke down in a driving rain storm. We pulled off the highway and discovered on Unilocal that Sal’s automotive was less than a mile away. As the rain began to clear we pulled into the shop. Someone came out to help us and they repaired on the spot. (it was simply reattaching the arm of the wiper, no parts required) When we asked what we owed them, they said ‘no charge’. Not many places like that left in the world today!

Since my review the ownership, management, and technicians has changed and since my 5 star review is based only on past visits, a family members experience, which was less than 3 stars & giving them the benefit of doubt to them at 3. I will update this on my next service visit and will update further. I hope it’s better than my relatives experience.