Calavera

that is if you dont have the tools or the time to work on your own. I've been going to a dealership for basic maintenance but was wondering if there's a cheaper place you go for stuff like brake pads and rotors?

I'm not sure I can trust any auto shop. I'm in socal near los angeles area.

GoLowDrew

I go all over the place for service over the years, and do some of the stuff myself (more now). And the dealer too for some specific stuff.

If you can find a local Sears or PepBoys that you feel comfortable with, then stay with them. That way, it's pretty much a one stop place. I've done that and been happy up to a point. The hard part is finding that one. And their turnover is often high that the guy you like may be gone 8 months from now.

vectorvtec73

Honestly, I prefer non-ASE certified mechanics. I've found more competence in many non-ASE techs than I've seen in many ASE techs.

Take that with a grain of salt though. I've worked at several dealerships so I've seen a wide array of great techs. I strictly remember one non-ASE guy I worked with that literally built a custom chopper from the ground up. A couple of the ASE guys couldn't even figure out how he did half the stuff to that chopper.

I personally always believe that anybody can study enough to pass a test like the ASE cert test(or in my field, the A++ test). A true mechanic learns by working on cars, not by taking tests and filling a wall with sheets of paper. I, personally, would never go to a dealership, or, and I mean no offense to Drew with this, anyplace like Sears or PepBoys. I would do some research in your area and go to a privately owned shop. The small shops generally will give you the best work at the best price. You might have to drive a bit to get to them, but more often than not it's worth it.

Just my two cents. Good luck finding someone bud!

0Steve@Spreen

While I don't totally agree with vectorvtec73, he does have some valid points. As far as independent shops go, look for one that's been around a long time, too many fly-by-night operations, specially in SoCal. If you don't mind driving (about 40 min from LA) there are two Honda specified shops that I wouldn't mind recommending: Foothill Foreign in Upland or Horizon Honda in Azusa. Of course, I totally trust my mechanics here at Spreen but I am about an hour away from LA. As always, this is just my opinion, and no matter where you choose, you will find someone with a horror story about them.

thefacta

In my opinion, your best luck is to google surrounding auto shops and look for consistent good reviews. In Dallas, I was about to find a shop in Richardson called "Hondew," owned by a couple of Honda/Acura owners that are true mechanics and don't overcharge. As a matter of fact, they opened the place because they got tired of all the overcharges at dealerships, etc.

If you can find a place with good/true reviews, you will be very happy. Good luck though, I know this is harder said than done.