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Alternative Automotive
137 S Vinewood St, Escondido, CA 92029, United States
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Ha
Review №1

Alternative Auto has been servicing three of my autos since about 2008. Better than the dealer, comparatively reasonable prices. If you are in a jam as I have been, they are really great at helping. It is a very good auto shop, foreign or domestic.

Je
Review №2

Had to mention how great my experience was coming here. For the past few months, I had problems with my right turn blinker and I already changed out the bulb and the assembly twice. I called multiple locations and even though I had an idea of what was going on, they wanted to charge me $100 or more for JUST the inspection only and any additional charges for anything that they deem “necessary” to do to my car. For that reason, I was discouraged and refused to look for any further help. A few months later, I simply googled nearby car electricians and found this place. I called and I spoke to Omar (I’m positive it was Omar) and he was professional and very understanding of my situation! After taking in all my info, he tells me the inspection was going to be $30 along with any additional charges to fix the problem. I was so surprised and ecstatic to hear so! I made an appointment for early Friday morning and left my car so they can inspect it. The problem was very minor compared to what others have said it could be, and overall charge was $50 with tax included. I was overjoyed to have my blinker fixed at a reasonable and realistic pricing! Not to mention Omar was very helpful throughout the whole time. Even though hand signals were able to assist for so long, I couldn’t risk any of my lights being non-functional any longer. Thank you to everyone here, it’s nice to have a shop you can trust in. Highly recommend this shop to anyone in need of car troubles and/or people who feel intimidated by other auto repair shops with such ridiculous prices. Give them a call! It’ll be worth your time!

bo
Review №3

They have always done me really good in the last few years as I depend on them to help keep my older cars on the road.

Ro
Review №4

Always upfront on future repairs. Been going here for years and really appreciate there honest / trustworthy comments on my car needs are. Excellent quality with good value. I trust there opinions and that what keep me coming back.

Jo
Review №5

Alternative has maintained our 1998 Lexus SC300 coupe for the last 9 years. Good service at reasonable prices. Communication with Omar is superb!

Se
Review №6

Best independent automotive shop in Escondido! They service all makes and models and have great customer service!

Te
Review №7

The service is very goodThe owner is very friendly, accommodating, very humble and helpful.I brought my odyssey van end of 2018 for low-beam bulb replacement, and they did the service in a fast-timely manner. Last week, the same low-beam bulb went dead, so I called them and brought it in to check.To make the long story short, they replaced the bulb under warranty and I didnt pay anything. I was so happy that they honor the defective item under warranty. It took them few minutes to get it fixed. This is was an amazing experience.My work is two-minute drive from their location, very convenient.I shared this experience with my co- workers and recommended Alternative Automotive!

My
Review №8

Friendly staff and quick service!

Be
Review №9

Alternatives Automotive was recommended by Discount Tire. I was looking for 2 things: an honest, fair mechanic and a second opinion because a dealership told me I needed an alignment. This didnt make sense to me because of the history on my car.I called and spoke to Omar who made me feel at ease right away. When they inspected my car they found that it was not in need of an alignment. I had an oil change and went home. The shop is clean, the personnel friendly, prices competitive, and my experience made me feel that I would not be taken advantage of. I would definitely recommend Alternative Automotive and felt it was a truly good experience.

Jo
Review №10

Excellent service and I felt truly listened to and cared for. Cars are a PITA, and mine was no exception, but they did me right big time, salvaging some parts to keep my costs way down and taking the time making sure it was right.Definitely going bacl when I need anything past my basic abilities.And, THANK YOU, OMAR!!

Jo
Review №11

Very professional ,work with you and theyre working on my two Cadillacs with no negativity

Ch
Review №12

UPDATE ~ 90,000 mile service.My car was in for the scheduled 90,000 mile service and had a few other needed things done. I called them, was given a choice of appointments and had my car in promptly. Most everything was completed in a day. One part had to be ordered and I was called a day or 2 later to complete my service. I was seen immediately and was out of there in a matter on minutes. I appreciate the professionalism of the shop and the employees. Thanks guys.Took our beater car into the shop for a brake job. First time here. The shop came highly recommended by a few members of my family. Omar and the guys did a great job and for $100 less than the dealership estimated. I would recommend them to everyone.

Da
Review №13

Excellent service again! There were two items that came up that both Steve and Omar took time discussing with me. After explaining the issues, I was relieved to find out that neither issue was pressing. I once again have appreciated their honesty.

Ka
Review №14

Cool place clean and good service

La
Review №15

Ive been using Alternative Automotive since 2007. Never had a problem. I feel like they are always honest when informing me what my vehicle needs. Its nice to have a reliable place to bring your car in for routine maintenance.

Je
Review №16

Alternative Automotive has professional friendly staff, provides unbeatable service and great prices. I highly recommend them for any service needs. I’ve had two vehicles serviced there over the past 3 years and have never been disappointed.

Ce
Review №17

As a woman, is always a good feeling to find a mecanic that you can trust. Honesty, professional, on time and always keep you posted on the progress of the repair of your car. I will recommand this automotive repair to my friends and others. Thank you.

Da
Review №18

Took really good care of my truck and didnt stop until they were certain that it was perfect keeping me well informed all the way through

Am
Review №19

From start to finish, my first experience with Alternative Auto will ensure that I never use anyone else after this. Omar was completely professional, taking care of all the warranty details, and making sure to call me every time he had an update. I really felt respected and that my car was in the best hands as it was getting repaired. Its very rare to encounter a business where the owners values really set the tone in such a positive and enduring way. This little auto shop is a real gem!

lu
Review №20

The only problem I have are the hours. Wish they were open a little later or on the weekends. But other than that I do always take my car here for any maintenance or issues. Always honest and takes care of my car.

De
Review №21

I took my mini-Cooper in to get some break pads put on. I was informed that the pads were gone and now I needed the rotors machined. You know “Omar”,has been a polite young man every single time I have ever been in the shop. I can’t even begin to tell you how thoughtful this man was. He even called an Uber while I was waiting, to take me to the mall He even paid for it. Just amazing. Omar strikes again and I have said it before when it comes to customer service. Omar takes the cake. I wouldn’t send my friends or family anywhere else. Thank you Omar

sk
Review №22

I will only let them work on my truck. They always do an amazing job. Omar is the best.

To
Review №23

Having car problems is never fun, but Steve was so helpful in giving me a choice of options. Didnt pressure me for the expensive one but gave me enough understanding to make a choice. Everything was done in a very professional and courteous manner. I was impressed!Already recommending you to friends.

Ka
Review №24

We have used Alternative Automotive now for at least 4 years for both our Toyota and Lexus. Omar is a gem. He is not only knowledgable and informative but is so kind and patient with customers who have way too many questions:) At the start, I priced the cost of maintenance service at the Lexus dealership and then at Alternative. The difference is astounding and the quality of the work, parts used etc. appears to be the same. We feel so fortunate to have found a local business that has the knowledge and most importantly, the integrity we can always count on!

Ca
Review №25

Excellent service at a reasonable price. Steve and his team have been caring for my 2007 Lexus Hybrid for over 5 years. I appreciate their honesty (even sending me to the dealer for an expensive repair that I didnt know was on recall), their friendly, personalized service (thanks Omar) and their knowledge base, always answering my questions with patience and a smile. Thank you.

lo
Review №26

I have taken my car into Alternative Automotive about 4 times now and each time has been a positive experience. The customer service is excellent and they always keep me informed about the work they are doing on my car. I also like that they send texts and email reminders about appointments. I have nothing but positive things to say about this place.

De
Review №27

Once again I had my LS 430 serviced here and they did a great job. They are friendly and knowledgable. They dont push services or repairs that are not needed which I really appreciate. If a repair needs to be done now they tell me and if it can wait, they let me know that also. I needed more done than my routine service this visit and they were able to complete the work with me waiting. I find this refreshing and I recommend this auto maintenance and repair business wholeheartedly.

Ju
Review №28

My family and I have been taking our vehicles to Steve for over 15 years and he has always been trustworthy, honest and most importantly given us outstanding service to our vehicles. Steve has even offered me helpful advice at no cost which says a lot about how he runs his business. If you own a Toyota or Lexus Steve has the experience to make sure your vehicle is cared for properly. Youre done searching - take your vehicle here.

Ci
Review №29

So thankful to have automotive care I can depend on. Many years ago my brother recommended Steve’s shop and I have been coming here ever since. I am very pleased with the care and service I receive from them.

Cu
Review №30

Steve and the team are great. Finding an honest mechanic is hard. Every time I have had to get work done on my cars (Lexus, Toyota), they have been great. Fast, courteous and honest. One time I came in when my starter wasnt working. I was fully expecting to be getting a new starter. They looked at it and saw that my contacts were corroded. They cleaned them and I was on my way with no charge. Ask yourself if your current auto repair place would do that or sell you a new starter...

Co
Review №31

Im very happy to have found Alternative Automotive on a friends recommendation.

Te
Review №32

An unusually honest and knowledgeable shop.I have been taking all our cars to Steve and his crew for oner 20 years. I always receive courteous and efficient service and really trust only them with the safety of my vehicles. I cant say enough about how much I and my family value to care our cars get at Alternative Automotive.

Da
Review №33

This is a great place. They are honest and will let you know if a repair can wait. They get you in quickly and repair you car fast. I have been taking my cars here for years along with my entire family. They are a fraction of the cost of the dealership.

M
Review №34

A trusted, friendly Escondido auto repair shop--My husband and I have been taking our Toyota and Lexus vehicles to Steve for almost 16 years. Always a great customer service experience, but more importantly, we know that our cars are being repaired well and that we can trust the mechanics in his repair shop. Great prices and coupons online too. Highly recommended!!

Ka
Review №35

They will be my car service people every time I need someone! They completely took care of my concerns and my car. Alternative automotive is thorough in everything.

AP
Review №36

Ive taken my vehicle to Steve and crew for the past 7 to 8 years and have always been happy with their work. I usually have an appointment, but when I havent theyve managed to work me into their schedule. They definitely have all of my future business.

Gl
Review №37

Fast, efficient, trustworthy. A great alternative to the sky high prices and questionable business practices of the dealership. Steve and his staff are all excellent professionals. I will be bringing my Toyota truck here for servicing from now on..

Er
Review №38

After trying for many decades the services of Ford, Chrysler, Chevrolet, Pontiac, Honda, Dodge, Nissan, Toyota and Mazda Dealers for my automobiles, at least since last four years Alternative Automotive under the direction of Steve Rabideau, his manager Omar and top certified mechanics, have been providing high-quality services to my automobiles at good reasonable prices. If you want total satisfaction for your vehicles, I highly recommend this great place in which everyone wins.

Ga
Review №39

Have been going to this great repair shop for many years. I am always pleased with their service and my Lexus runs beautifully.

M.
Review №40

This is a great place for taking care of my car. They listen to me when I bring it in for service and look into any concerns I might have. Dealerships dont do this. I would definitely recommend this repair shop. They care about the customer and your car.

Ti
Review №41

Punctual expertise, very reasonable price; after trying out many shops, I finally found the shop I will trust in the future.

Li
Review №42

Steve and his staff are terrific. I always know when we bring a car in that Ill be treated fairly and respectfully. Theyre the only shop we use!

do
Review №43

Steve and his crew are honest, knowledgeable, and professional. They take a personal interest in their customers vehicles and give you the advise and service that you need without trying to sell you work that you dont need. Ive been going there for years and have been completely satisfied with their service.

Ir
Review №44

Fast and affordable premium service. Omar at the front desk is cool and a very nice guy

Da
Review №45

Ive been using Alternative Automotive now for a couple of years, thanks to a neighbors referral. Our family owns two late model Toyotas...a 99 Forerunner and a 06 Tundra. Alternative Automotive services both vehicles...the beauty of Alternative Automotive is that they are honest, efficient, knowledgeable and dont try to sell unnecessary services or parts...like over-priced air filters or wiper blades when you dont need them. Both my Toyotas run great, I owe some of that to Alternative Automotive, some to my being cognizant of the need for servicing and of course most of it to Toyota engineering. A combination that works for all. I got tired of getting ambushed at the dealers...try Alternative Automotive, theyll take care of your vehicles!

Je
Review №46

These guys are the best auto shop around - honest, caring and affordable. Weve been taking our family cars here for over 8 years and weve always had a good experience.

Ch
Review №47

Excellent customer service, great prices.

Er
Review №48

This place only repairs what needs to be on a timely basis at an unmatched price.

Da
Review №49

Got my Ford Ranger running like a Cadillac!!!Thank you

st
Review №50

(YES) I finally found the place I have been looking for. Ive been to two dealerships and more for many years and have been overcharged and underworked. I have lost lots of money because of poor workmanship and the lack of caring and knowledge. Ive never been happier in my life with the professional service I had at alternative automotive. steven rabideau and his crew are the best thanks for all their help.Stephen t einer

Ni
Review №51

As usual, accommodating, affable, affordable and available.

Vi
Review №52

Great service

De
Review №53

Worked here and never worked with a better honest team.

Information
20 Photos
53 Comments
5 Rating
  • Address:137 S Vinewood St, Escondido, CA 92029, United States
  • Site:https://www.alternativeautoescondido.com/
  • Phone:+1 760-480-0851
Categories
  • Auto repair shop
  • Car repair and maintenance
  • Auto tune up service
  • Brake shop
  • Electrical repair shop
  • Tire shop
  • Transmission shop
  • Wheel alignment service
Working hours
  • Monday:8am–5pm
  • Tuesday:8am–5pm
  • Wednesday:8am–5pm
  • Thursday:8am–5pm
  • Friday:Closed
  • Saturday:Closed
  • Sunday:8am–5pm
Highlights
  • Veteran-led:Yes
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