Central Avenue Automotive Inc

Feb 05, 2025

I took my Honda Civic to have a starter replaced, I told them this last starter was installed in October, that I bough it from NAPA and that maybe it did not fit well, since it broke 2 months later. Still they installed the same starter from NAPA again yesterday 2/03/2025 The starter is not working as expected, still the car starts on the third try. 😡I am Also not satisfied on how they change the headlight bulb, it was white and now the replaced one is yellow. I look at it last night and it really looks awful. I was not notified about the problem to get the car’s regular white bulb, which means I was not asked previously, if I authorized to use a different one and even worse, a different color. I did not authorized it. They were not able to replace a turning light, they want me to pay $170 for a diagnostic on why it does not work. I feel they want to get the most of your money and every little thing that does not work you have to pay for a diagnostic. First and last time there. 😡😡

Jan 17, 2025

Our car’s ignition and auto theft mechanism was broken from thieves and our jeep wouldn't start at all. We called a dealership and they basically told us that our car was a lost cause, which was pretty discouraging but we never gave up and found Central Ave Automotive. They were AMAZING! I was able to tow my car there for my appointment and they did everything from fixing the issue to cleaning and detailing the inside of our car since it was sitting for a month. THANK YOU SO MUCH EVERYONE AT CENTRAL AVENUE AUTOMOTIVE!! What you do truly matters!!

Jan 10, 2025

Do not give them your money, took a week to diagnose an issue that I told them I was aware of. Head gasket, but they said they can't warranty it because of the vehicle mileage. Which is whatever, but quoting me 18 thousand dollars for a motor replacement on a 2000 Toyota 4runner is pretty much shoving a middle finger in my face. Crate motors go for about 2-3 grand by themselves. Decided to do the work on my own. This place is a joke. Not to mention, you charge me 200 just to do absolutely nothing? If you are looking to go to central automotive, you are better off taking ur buisness elsewhere

Jan 07, 2025

I hate lengthy reviews, but people need to be warned about this shop's bullcrap. I got my lexus towed to this location a few months ago because my driveshaft failed. they said they needed to do a diagnostic on it first. so I paid 100$ for the diagnostic and they said it would take a couple weeks to get the part. Paid 1300$+ for the first 'main' fix. Over two weeks later, after that initial fix, the next day on my way back from work the car failed again and they claimed to have test driven it the day before. they said I had to pay for a separate diagnostic before even letting it get towed back, had to pay upfront. after towing and paid diagnostic run again, They said my rear axle and rear differential needed to be fixed for 1800$+ and that I had to get a loan to pay for it since I couldn't afford another nearly 2 grand. They offer loans to pay for their prices, which is convenient considering they charge two to three times the amount for parts, etc. and take advantage of people who need their car fixed ASAP to commute to work. After setting up a loan, They took a couple weeks to fix it. After picking it up, The car didn't make it home, which is a ten minute drive from the shop. After asking to get it checked again, they asked for another individual diagnostic, and after that was paid, they had another "issue" for 1500+. at this point, I am out of money and a car for my work commute and they refused to refund the 3rd diagnostic when i explained i can't pay anymore. I wish there was a way to hold them accountable. BEWARE THE REVIEWS ARE LIES!!! THEY OVER CHARGE, DISCRIMINATE AGAINST POOR POC AMD WOMEN, CHARGE WAY MORE THAN OTHER SHOPS! go somewhere else....save your time and money.

Dec 07, 2024

Not sure what happened Took my 2005 Hyundai Elantra to Central Ave Automotive after the battery light had come on. Authorized diagnostic svc, received call from Mark within a couple hours and was told that the alternator was bad and needed to be replaced at a cost of $1,300+. I had seen estimates on this work for $400-$600 so asked why the price was so high. At this point Mark said (paraphrased) "oops it looks like we were set to bill you for 5 hours of labor.. I thought that looked high" (my thought: if you thought it looked high when were going to tell me?) The adjusted cost after this was fixed: $808. I asked for a price breakdown and part number. $460+ for the alternator. Online prices for the same part: $138-$250. Is that typical markup? I decided to not have the work done and when I picked up the car the alternator was working. Could it have just been a faulty/loose connection? As I said.. not sure what happened. Update: The alternator did fail shortly after the above experience so it looks like at least the assessment done by Central Ave Automotive (bad alternator) was correct.

Nov 07, 2024

Excelente

Nov 07, 2024

The best service we have ever received from an automotive repair shop. Professional, experienced, and polite from the front desk to the back where the mechanics do their work We are very pleased.

Oct 07, 2024

I called. They say they can get me in immediately. I got there. They got me in and out fast got my information and then they sent me a full diagnostic the very next day super fast. I will definitely be coming back here again.

Oct 07, 2024

If it was only possible to rate 0 stars! DO NOT DO BUSINESS HERE! THEY TAKE ADVANTAGE OF CUSTOMERS! I had been given their name from my extended warranty policy. (Air conditioner issues)I went in spoke with Paul. I explained that I had been referred by my extended warranty policy company. I mentioned the A/C as well as a problem with the USB port and passenger mirror. I was told I would have to pay for the diagnostic of each individually and that is not covered by my policy. I paid for diagnostic of A/C. I was informed that what my system needed was an a/c recharge. A "service " not covered by my policy. I expressed my surprise that a 5yr old car needed a recharge. They had my car for 4 days. When I picked up the car the a/c didn't work! I was told that the part that was needed was covered not on extended policy but 5yr/50k and I should take it to Kia. I finally get it to Kia. Kia fixes EVERYTHING including USB port and mirror and AC for my $100 deductible!!!! I called Paul at Central Automotive to explain all that had happened. He told me he didn't remember me ever discussing the extended warranty!! They would NEVER return my call! I called 2-3x per week. I was informed that he was talking to the "team" and owner and they refuse to refund my money because they don't remember the conversation!!!This ALL could have been handled in MARCH when I FIRST went there for $100!! They charged me over $600!!!Telling me it wasn't covered! DO NOT DO BUSINESS HERE! UNTRUSTWORTHY!! DISHONEST !!! PLEASE READ UPDATED!!! UPDATED!!! INSANE!!!!! This is HILARIOUS!!! 1st I received a text message asking me to schedule an appointment to have more work done on my car! Shows their true concern! THEN 6hrs ago they post if I only contacted the store they'd be willing to work something out???? You mean after I tried to be refunded for the unnecessary work uhhh...2 mos ago??? And they told me no! Even after Paul offered me a "free" a/c recharge to make up for charging me when it wasn't necessary! I asked for a refund..Paul (Service Manager) said no. I told him I would have to file small claims lawsuit! He said..you do that!!! THAT'S HOW THEY WANT TO WORK IT OUT???? REALLY????

Sep 07, 2024

A year ago, I got my break pads and rotors replaced for $1,600 at this location and 15 minutes after driving it, it broke down and cost me another $1,000. I went to another car repair shop nearby and got quoted a reasonable price and issue did not need to return. For how many good reviews this location had, I’m really disappointed.

Sep 07, 2024

They fixed complex issues on our 20 year old Volvo. No storage charges for the week it stayed while we were out of town on vacation.

Sep 07, 2024

Went to the place across the street to get my windshield changed, my 32 week pregnant wife and toddler were meeting me there to pick me up so I didn’t have to wait. My wife got there upset due to our car was out of coolant. I went across the street to Central Avenue automotive and asked if I could buy some coolant. They were kind enough to fill me up at no cost, I even tried to give the mechanic 20$ for the trouble and he did not accept. Definitely will be happy to take all my future car repair to them. Real class act, thanks for the save Central Avenue Automotive!

Jun 07, 2024

Impeccable service at this shop especially two front guys, friendly, professional and communicative. I’ll be going here every time.

May 07, 2024

CAA is a great place for business and efficient, anyone says negatives are dummies and trying to slime their way through a faulty repair someone else with no knowledge touched and trying to plan it on the shop. Get your service done properly and taken care of here. Don't pay an extra dime for blinker fluid Jiffy Lube recommends.

May 07, 2024

I was introduced to this shop by a friend that has been bringing in their car for the past few years. The team was able to diagnose what was wrong with my car and explain it clearly to me. In addition I really love how thorough their digital inspections are because I was able to see what was wrong with my car through the photos that were provided. Also I was able to approve everything through text messages, and they finished all my repairs within the same day! Moving forward , I will definitely be bringing my car here for future inspections and repairs! Thanks Paul & Andrew!

May 07, 2024

My initial experience with Central Avenue Automotive, regarding work done on my sister's car, left me frustrated and questioning their service standards. However, the way the Service Manager, Paul Thongseng, and their team handled the situation completely changed my opinion. Following my negative review, Paul’s Team didn't just respond, they reached out with a genuine desire to rectify the situation. They set an appointment for us to meet at the Automotive Shop, where they attentively listened to my concerns and empathized with my sister's experience. Their sincere desire to understand and address our concerns left a lasting impression on me. Paul and his team provided a clear, detailed explanation of the initial problem and where the miscommunication had transpired. They explained that the initial service ordered was a Multi-Point Inspection, which focuses on general vehicle health, and not a full Engine Diagnostic. This meant some deeper issues, like the ones that arose later, wouldn't have been identified. Their honesty and willingness to explain the technical aspects built trust between their business and my family. They then outlined the thorough steps they would take to fix the issue and ensure it wouldn't happen again. While car trouble is an unwelcome experience for anyone, it's comforting to know that Central Avenue Automotive is a business that prioritizes customer satisfaction, even in the face of minor miscommunications like the one we experienced. Their dedication to resolving issues, coupled with their skilled mechanics, positions them as a reliable choice for anyone seeking dependable automotive care.

May 07, 2024

One stop shop! I’ll definitely be coming here for services. Very professional team. They don’t push you to purchase additional services and they’re straightforward and honest. Thanks Howard for making this a pleasant visit. If you’re in the Kent area, I highly suggest you go here as well for any car services needs.

May 07, 2024

Thank you for team central automotive for taking care of my vehicle I brought bmw for service and they had in and out fixed in one day. I know it’s tuff to grab parts for my car, I would recommend friends and family thank you for being very professional and fast

Apr 07, 2024

Best repair for Germany cars and email you all the detail what going on in the car

Apr 07, 2024

I needed to get a pre road trip inspection done and these guys were so helpful. We discussed what might need looking at and came to an initial list of tasks. After looking at my truck they had identified some other work that could be considered, their inspection report was awesome and included the urgency of each item. Communication is very good. After they were done, including another repair that came up as they dug in to the job, they did a complimentary detail job on the truck. My truck has rarely been that shiney! I guess they saw the sadness on my face as I contemplated the rising repair bill. Thanks Guys!!

Apr 07, 2024

Took my vehicle to Central Ave Auto with a check engine light, after 7 days was told I needed a (Air Injection Pump), waiting on dealer for a part could take a week. They then submitted a claim to my Warranty co, to replace a (secondary air hose) which is not covered under the warranty, but the pump is. I voice my confusion, I felt they were trying to avoid the Warranty co, which they admitted the warranty co was considered the worst . So , I opted to take my vehicle home until the part was ready, they charged $380 Dia fee. I took my vehicle to 2 other auto facilities they confirmed in writing that I needed a (Air Injection Pump). I called CAA asked for the owner Blake (repeatedly), but, Paul/manager refused, instead gave me the run around. SO, I contacted the Attorney General office and unfortunately there are many complaints regarding Warranty co & Auto shops, with the same or similar story. Warranty co may try to deny your claim, but they also serve to regulate auto repair shops to provide honest prices and services... BEWARE!!

Feb 07, 2024

Excellent customer service. WAY above and beyond. Best experience in more than 10yrs. Needed my lower control arms replaced on my 2014 GMC ACADIA. They worked with my "after market" warranty. They found additional stabilizer bushings that needed to be replaced also. Spoke to Krystel, she was very professional, and able to give me a loaner. Another shop in Auburn told me I had to pay $1000, because my warranty would not pay "market" rate for parts or labor. Well that was a lie, as Central Ave Auto not only shocked me by only charging me my $100. deductible, but put up with the warranty company not wanting to authorize a 2nd shop to work on my SUV. I have already told coworkers to go here, because of the loaner available, now I will be telling everyone to go here, if you need work done in the Kent, WA area. Big Thanks to Krystel & Mark at Central Ave, Auto. Made my New Year already.

Feb 07, 2024

Great place for auto work

Feb 07, 2024

Great shop

Feb 07, 2024

I was expecting better service than a quick lube place. Wasted a whole day for it, and was charged for a service that was part of their oil change package.

Feb 07, 2024

Mark and Crystal are super helpful and make things stress free on me. They’re accommodating with my work schedule too. I literally live in ellensburg and still go to them because they are more trained, affordable and legit than anyone else. They washed my car and vacuumed it. 5/5

Feb 07, 2024

My family had been going there for years. Went in for a misfire, a bad plug and damaged coil. Ended up with an estimate suggesting several thousand dollars worth of work. I said I only wanted to fix what was broken. Had to say it more than twice. Drove it from the shop when the work was done. Parked it. Next time I try to start it the key gets stuck in the ignition assembly and the steering collum looks like its been taken apart recently. Coincidence?

Feb 07, 2024

Reasonable pricing and great customer service.

Feb 07, 2024

Son had minor repairs done on his 2008 diesel jeep. Able to get an appointment within a couple days and he felt the price was reasonable

Feb 07, 2024

Take your Car some where else, lier , dishonest, rip-off and ignorant.

Feb 07, 2024

The crew at Central is always friendly, helpful, knowledgeable, and great @ keeping customer up-to-date.

Feb 07, 2024

The staff were awesome to work with! We had to be towed to their location and they immediately took time to address our truck issue. They got us back on the road by late afternoon the same day. The mechanics were very helpful in showing us what needed to be completed to fix the problem. Outstanding service and communication, highly recommend them! Thank you!!!!

Feb 07, 2024

Very competent and very polite

Feb 07, 2024

WTH Blake, Took my Vw Golf in for a front end alignment. I was told the tie rods were seized up and they needed to be replaced, Quoted me an exorbitant price! Went to a Highly recommended shop instead for under Half their estimate. Made another appt. fora front end alignment, they called to say the alignment machine was down, waiting on parts, could I reschedule? Sure, made another appt., got up early made the 35 minute drive only to hear,We have another car on the rack, waiting on parts, probably can't get to yours this morning!!! Then Why did I make an Appt? We apologize they said, Doesn't help me much!!! Certainly NOT the Central Automotive I knew. Robert Arnoux