Engine repair service near Balboa, CA

Not happy with this place or the work, took my M3 there one time, and that was all it took. First off I had plenty of work done, header install, carbon intake installed, water pump, coolant hoses, O2 sensors, thermostat, crankshaft seal, and instructed him to repair the oil leaks. Ed says he repaired my oil leaks, yet my car continues to leak oil, he damaged a $400 wheel, which he said, if the shop he knew, could not fix it, he would buy me a new one. When his shop failed to do so, I asked about a new wheel, of course he then said, he had no money to get me a new one, so I paid out of my pocket for a new wheel. I had him install my carbon air box, and he removed my OEM clamps, threw them away and replaced them with some junk hose clamps, stating he did not have the tool to replace the clamps, not sure what that has to do with me. So I took my car to check on the oil leaks and was told and shown by the shop, how the oil pan was not only missing bolts, but some were sheared off from over torquing, I was also missing header and sway bar bolts from his header install, my power steering hose was not secure, causing it to rub on part of the motor, damaging it, there were a few other things he failed to do, now costing me over a $1000 to repair after paying him over $2000 for less than subpar work. Do yourself a favor, and stay away.

Star Auto Service is amazing. They really do the job right and take care of their customers. From the shuttle service to calling and giving me updates, I really appreciate their attention to detail. They even gave me a loaner car -- a Mustang which is considerably cooler than the minivan I left for repair. I've had a problem with an automatic side door that wouldn't stay open. The dealer spent an entire day and insisted I'd have to replace the whole door. I brought it to Star Auto and they were able to fix it for a fraction of the cost. They sent me a diagnostic of the whole car with pictures identifying the problem. Excellent service and great repair. A+++++ Jodi B.

Very helpful, knowledgeable and accommodating. They should change their name because they do much more than just tuneups and lube jobs. And, as a bonus, they are quick and friendly. One of the employees even offered to give me a ride there and back when my car had to be kept for a few days.

I went into this place to get an estimate. They quoted me $650. I gave them my car to do the work. I get a call the next day. They say $850. Then I come to get the car...they want $1250 for parts and additional labor. I try to pay with my credit card but they won't allow. They want the money in CASH. And...they were gonna hold on to the car until I paid them the money. They wouldn't even let me see the car. I returned with the money later that day - got my car with half the engine ripped apart. These people are snakes - stay away. The owner himself is dirty and sleazy - his appearance alone should warn you. These people have a bad reputation locally. Apparently everyone I talk to knows what a sleaze shop this is and I hear the same thing - stay away!

Family-owned and operated Smog Station serving Orange County since 1996.Services we provide include:• All Smog Tests: STAR, Test-Only, Regular, Test & Repair• All Vehicles: Cars, RVs, Trucks, Limos, Fleets* & Gross Polluters• Smog Repairs• Brake & Lamp Inspections• Diesel Vehicle Inspections• CAP Repairs• SERVICES IMMEDIATELY AVAILABLE...IN STOCK: Registration Renewals, Stickers, License Plates, Title Transfers, Temporary Driving Permits, Salvaged Titles, Out of State Titles, Motorcycles & VIN Verification. * For special Fleet pricing call: Greg Boesche @ 562.694.3878Great Customer Service• Clean/Comfortable/Cool• FREE COFFEE & SODA• Cable TV• Kid's Play Area• VISA, M/C, AMEX, DISCOVER & Checks• SE HABLA ESPAÑOL

Staff was helpful and did not try to haggle me with ridiculous prices or false claims. Once I was going to be late for work with two flat tires. Luckily I was close to this place and they were willing to take me in. Once the repair and rotation of the tires were done, I was charged nothing! That's right nothing, I couldn't believe it. If you are in need of maintenance I recommend you check these guys out. Henry Sanchez