Automotive Specialist

Finding a good mechanic is a challenge, but Automotive Specialist gained a new loyal customer this week. Long story short, I had a brake job done a few months ago here, and then three months later something on it failed and I was in need of a new brake job. Called them back up, they towed it from the place I had it and fixed it for me, all under warranty from the first job. They called and communicated throughout the entire process, were so friendly, and up front about helping me out. I'll be recommending them to anyone who is looking.

Amazing customer service. Lived in Columbia for 30 years and this is by far the best experience I've had with an auto repair shop.

Had an issue with my car mis firing, had replaced a coil on cylinder 5, turns out the new part was faulty. They got it in same day did a compression test everything was good tested injectors, everything was fine there, found the faulty coil I had just replaced got it fixed in about 2 hours and at a very responsible price, they gained a life long customer. Such an amazing business.

They do a great job at a reasonable price. They will even go over options with you. Friendly people. November 2023 is the last time I had service with them. They replaced a couple of tires and that went well.

One criticism though which inspired me to update my Google review via a new Google review, I miss that Automotive Specialist doesn't send their data to CARFAX anymore.
My service records used to auto populate in the CARFAX "My Car Maintenance" service garage on CARFAX's website. However, that only works if the service shop sends the data to CARFAX. Automotive Specialist stopped sending the data it seems. So, now I have to enter the service records manually.

Regardless, I still like the place. So, 5 out of 5 stars still.

Upon check in I was told the earliest appointment would be on the following Monday. After understanding my issue they pulled my van in on the spot, fixed my simple issue and got me on the road in less than 30 minutes. Thanks for taking the time to listen and think critically. They understood the problem was a quick fix and made my day much easier. Thanks!

I was driving across country and had a “check engine” light come on. I found this place had good ratings and decided to give it a try. My experience was excellent.!

The people are kind, and treated other customers well. I had taken my car to multiple shops to fix shaking, they were the first to fix it.
I initially had an issue, but they called me and resolved it without my making them.

I had a circumstance where I was in the middle of work and I felt like my car was acting up. Knowing my situation they squeezed me in, even though it was within an hour of closing. After arriving I could see that it was troublesome for them (they never made me feel this way in the slightest, and we're super nice the entire time, I could just tell by watching everything going on) but they checked the car quickly and got me on my way. Very professional and kind, definitely recommend.

We have used this company for over a decade. They always take care of anything we need. They are upfront and honest and are not trying to oversell you parts you do not need. Great company.

I've been using Automotive Specialist for a few years now. Doug has been great over the years- quick to get me in, always answered my questions, and a friendly smiling face every time I walked in the door. Doug recently retired, but I brought my car in last week for a starter replacement and David did not disappoint! I don't trust anybody else in town!

Doug and his crew are the most honest, most qualified crew I have found living in COMO for over 28 years. Believe me, I have been through my share of mechanics in those years, I currently run a business, with a fleet of vehicles and have three personal vehicles. They resolve my issues completely, and honestly, with fair pricing. They are excellent communicators and I have never felt that I was overcharged for a service that I requested, much unlike, some of the other shops in the Columbia area.
On top of all that, which is enough to make me stay with them as my primary source of automotive care, they Warrantee their work and greet you with a smile. Great company and well run!

Great mechanics! I always feel like they are totally honest with me. I took my jeep to them and ask them to look it over and let me know if they think I need to have something fixed or replaced, since I was going to be traveling back and forth to Springfield a lot. The only thing they suggested was to have my back brakes replaced (the mechanic had noticed the car seat for my grandson). I feel like they could have “suggested” several things since I left it open to them. They are always extremely nice and good prices, I feel like, as well.

These guys were recommended to me by a coworker for their honesty and customer service. The check engine light came on with our Honda and the dealership had quoted us over $4,000. After some research I found that this is a known issue with our Honda Odyssey and had something to do with the i-VTEC system and fouling the plugs when certain cylinders turned off. I took it to Automotive Specialist and they knew about the issue with the Variable Cylinder Management and recommended changing out the plugs and treating it with an engine cleaner. That was months ago and we haven't had an issue since. Next step is to order an aftermarket part that bypasses the Variable Cylinder Management so it doesn't destroy our engine.

This is a long overdue review. I can’t say enough great things about the team here. I was first introduced to automotive specialist when I needed to have my brakes looked at. I had just moved to Columbia and tried to take my car to all star automotive but they quoted me an outrageous amount for one brake and hose. I decided not to use them because I felt like they were ripping me off. That’s when I took my car to Doug. Turned out to be just a hose problem and they were able to fix it for hundreds of dollars less. I fully trust the team here. I know they will only do what they need to do when they fix your vehicle. You don’t have to worry about additional things being “found” that need to be repaired. I also used them for a new windshield and inspection. They were able to accommodate my busy schedule and work with me on getting it replaced. I just dropped my car off for an oil change and I know my car is in good hands there. Doug, Missy, and the entire automotive specialist crew treat you like you’re family and are genuinely kind people. If you are sick of being ripped off by other auto shops or want to help support a local business, this is the auto shop for you! Give Doug and his team a chance to show you their fantastic work and fair prices. You won’t regret it!

I love this place!!! The guys especially Doug make sure my suburbans are repaired correctly and I'm not over charged! They have earned my trust and it's so great to feel happy to pay them to fix our burbs!! They are training a new guy David to answer phones and organize appointments and he's really doing well!!!
# 1 service!!

Doug and his crew consistently repair our vehicles on time and within budget. Very happy with the work they have done for us. Would definitely recommend them!

This place is fantastic! They are honest, informative, and do quick work. The only downside is they are so popular sometimes it can take some time before they can get your car in. But that shows that they are very popular in the community.

They saved me $1800.00 by checking first to see if I really needed new struts. Turned out it was just a loose bolt. Very nice, friendly, helpful guys. Only charged me $37.50. Dealership charges more just to look at it. My only complaint (not really a complaint) I wish they could expand their business they could get more done sooner. 😍

These guys are the very best! They will get to work on your car in a timely manner, and keep you updated. They never charge a second time if they have to go back in (though it's rare they miss something the first time). Their rates are extremely reasonable. They may be the cheapest in town. These men are honest and friendly. Once I discovered this shop and their quality work, I have since stuck with them for years. I recommend them to everyone. Go talk to Doug. He's the best!

Automotive Specialist has resolved many or my cars issues and they also did a state inspection! They are a NAPA certified shop, so any part that is repaired comes with a 36 month warranty!!
They are great people! They provide their own taxi service to get you to and from the shop. They are friendly, provide excellent customer service, have quick turnaround times. I cannot recommend them enough!!!

Great customer service! Got my vehicle in right away and was fixed and ready to go the next day. Also offers a military discount! Very much appreciated! Thanks