Clients reviews about A-1 Imports Autoworks - Auto Repair Shop In San Rafael

JP and the team took a look at my 1975 BMW 2002 a few years back. I had rebuilt it as a high schooler in my driveway, but wanted to make sure I didn’t make any fatal flaws before driving it 6 hours to college for the first time. Not only did they tune a couple things for a fair price, they were thrilled and passionate about sharing some insight into the nuances of that particular model. Years later, I pulled over due to a new noise and remembered one of the tips JP passed on. I located the issue, tuned it according to his rec with one flathead and got back on the road, running better than ever. That level of care and expertise is rare in this day and age, and I cannot recommend them enough. ~ Chad B

I reached out to A-1 and spoke to to JP about a pre-purchase inspection. JP was very generous with his time upfront, helping me understand what all he would do as part of the inspection, and what his availability looked like. Also, his pricing was very competitive. I had him look over an Audi I was planning to purchase in the area, and his pre-purchase inspection report was very comprehensive, and detailed. He sent me an email with the report, and then spent about 20 mins with me on the phone explaining what each concern meant and the severity of each concern. I couldn't have asked for more, and I highly recommend A-1 Imports! ~ Mathew T

I just want to share a quick thank you to the team at A-1. They did a coolant system repair on my Audi S3 and about five or six months later, I noticed that the coolant level had dropped a bit. They set a convenient time for me to bring the car in and did a full pressure test of the system without any questions asked. As it turns out they didn't find a leak (thankfully) .... I just really appreciate that they took responsibility for the original work and took care of this. Follow up inspection without any additional charge. I would absolutely recommend working with these guys. ~ Roland S

JP and his team always get it done. They are so nice and do incredible work. I do very long road trips in my car and they always consider all the details. I feel taken care of, safe, and ready to go once my car leaves JPs shop. I have felt apprehensive and timid over the years about taking my car places because I have had lots of times where people will do more just to make more money or take advantage of the fact that I don’t know much about cars. They do not do this here! I trust the whole process once I pull into A-1. I will refer friends and family there always! ~ Ellie S

I brought my son's 1987 BMW 325is into the shop for repairs and was greeted by JP with a welcoming and comforting attitude. My son just got his drivers license and his first car. JP and the A-1 crew took care of everything needed in an efficient and timely manor and at a very reasonable cost. Since the car is almost 30 years old JP set us up with a list of car repairs in order of priorities. I would recommend everyone to bring their vehicles to A-1 for the best service and the best staff around!!!!! ~ James C

As a BMW enthusiast, I trust JP and A-1 Imports in San Rafael to keep my cars on the road and in optimal condition. I've relied on JP's expert advice, quality service, and impeccable maintenance to help me achieve nearly 300K miles on the last car (it was a diesel ;P) and my current sedan in great shape. I trust JP and his staff to diagnose and fix anything that comes up - and I would strongly recommend him to absolutely anyone needing service for their import. ~ Jeff C

I no longer own a BMW now but when I did, A-1 was my primary mechanic for all issues on my beamer. Best price anywhere and did the recommended fixes that JP recommended and never had an issue again. My 2006 3 series had over 300k miles before I sold it almost a decade ago. I now own another brand of vehicle but if I ever own a BMW again, this will be the first place I'll take it to without a second thought! They know BMW's down to the atom! You won't regret! ~ Steve B

I love this shop! They treat you like family and go out of their way to make sure you are 100% satisfied. They have been prompt, fair and honest. I was involved in a small claims suit and they even gave me the broken parts along with photos and a written exclamation to back me up. My BMW broke down in Santa Rosa and I got an excellent referral for a local shop that included a free loaner car for the weekend as we were leaving for a weekend away! You won't be disappointed. ~ Elke R

BEYOND ALL EXPECTATIONS!!! I called JP this morning after my check engine light went on. He mentioned he was fully booked in the coming weeks but I could stop by to have him diagnose the issue. Within minutes of arriving, he identified and resolved the problem, along with topping off my oil. He refused payment and wished me a "Happy Holiday"! It truly doesn't get any better then this and I will be returning to A-1 for all of my automotive needs going forward. Beyond grateful, JP! ~ Lonnele B

JP Cadoux at A-1 is very talented mechanic who's able to tackle all sorts of car problems on all sorts of cars. You may see a lot of BMW's there but he also can fix vintage Jaguars and who knows what else. Recently he tuned up the triple Weber carbs on my '66 Jaguar XKE and got them running nicely. He's personable and his prices are reasonable. Expertise, good prices, not a jerk: what more could you ask for? ~ Lance H

JP has been servicing my car for 2 years now, he is the best! He is responsive, transparent, and very competent. For my car he has tackled everything from an engine rebuild, clutch change, suspension/brake upgrades, electrical work and fixes, as well as regular maintenance. He also diagnosed and fixed a nasty intermittent misfiring issue that 2 others reputable shops couldn't figure out. Highly recommended! ~ Jonathan P

I’ve been taking my 95 BMW to JP for a while now and he’s been dependable and fixes what is needed vs finding new stuff to fix on my car!! He also appears to use quality parts and fix things properly. Like all of you, I’ve had bad experiences at other shops and dealerships selling me on repairs I don’t need, but JP seems honest and helpful in contrast. ~ Stephen D

JP and the A-1 team are simply the best. They provide expertise, quality and affordability when it comes to caring for your automobile. I rotate my cars through his shop for oil changes, brakes, alternators,etc (whatever the case). I’ve been going to JP for 20 years. If you want peace of mind for your preventative and routine car care, then you don’t need to look anywhere else. ~ Gerald B

JP is no-nonsense about his service. He’s a problem solver. He’s not a technician that just plugs in a computer and replaces a part because the computer said so. He diagnoses, understands the issues, only uses OEM parts and actually fixes your problem. As a master mechanic, he works on many different vehicles. And even unique ones like our Diesel Sprinter Vans ~ Sprntr C

Love these guys, they have done work on my Subaru twice now adding aftermarket off road parts (from Rallitek). I would highly recommend them to anyone for either car fixes or car upgrades. The owner is very detail oriented and explained to me everything he had to do for one of the mods I had him install (a winch kit), which was so helpful!!! ~ Michael S

I'm new to the area and wanted to find a local independent to service my 08 X5. I went to Sonnen and their very pricey and somewhat Arrogant. I was recommended A1 from Diamond Tires and gave them a try. They were professional and reasonable priced and did a good job. I will definitely go back in the future. ~ Dale J

Great shop, for your import vehicles , owner is very cool, and really knowledgeable and a top notch mechanic. He helped me 25 years ago with my Audi and the few times i've paid to get my car fixed JP the owner is the first I would call. His rate is lower than most shops in Marin. If you can I would make an appointment due to how busy they are . ~ Jim B

A1 is the best! JP is one of the kindest mechanics I’ve worked with. He’s transparent about the most sensible approach to repairs. Prices are reasonable, and he’s flexible about pick up and drop off times. His karting photos are fun to see too. I highly recommend A1 for your general auto care. ~ Susan P

A first rate operation. Had a complete 4 wheel brake service including all new rotors, an oil change/filter, air filter, plus general checkup at a reasonable price. These are knowledgeable, skilled mechanics. Plus good coffee and high speed internet if you want to wait. Highly recommended. ~ Patrick N

JP and his team are truly one in a million. You will not find a more ethical , honest , and reliable team like A1 auto. I can’t tell you how blown away i am at JP’s integrity and honesty. Thank you JP for restoring our faith. We are truly lucky to have A1 so close to home. ~ Maryam F

This place is friendly, well run, and a place you can trust that they will do the work you agree to quickly and with a smile. They base their excellent service on building life long relationships with their customers built on trust and I very much appreciate that. ~ The T

An seasoned veteran, JP runs his shop with confidence and commitment. Many of my cars have been in his care over the last 25 years. He knows his craft, and is always realistic and honest. Thanks for all the miles! ~ Adam G

JP was awesome. We had never been to A-1 before and had to have our car towed there because we live 1.5 miles away. He diagnosed the issue and helped assist with us leaving the car overnight since it was a late evening arrival. We will be back! ~ Albee F

Good, Fast, and Caring service. I've been a customer with A1 Autoworks for years, they are first-of-all an excellent car service; and caring, and honest. I recommend them to all my friends and anyone else who ask. Thanks A1, it's a pleasure. ~ dolphinintelligence

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