La Mesa & San Diego Auto Repair

I brought my car in to have two issues diagnosed: a noise from the engine compartment during a cold start, and a burning smell that occurs only in stop‑and‑go traffic once the engine is fully hot. Only the first issue was looked at, and even that wasn’t properly evaluated because the condition wasn’t recreated — the noise only happens after the car sits overnight. I was told nothing was wrong and was even dismissed as ‘crazy,’ which was unprofessional and unnecessary. The second issue — the burning smell — was not addressed at all. In fact, I smelled the same burning fluid immediately when I picked up the car and drove away. I also noticed new problems that were not present before: spongy brakes and rough idling. The shop performed a maintenance inspection I did not request. The inspection report stated my coolant was low, yet the odometer showed the technician drove my car 25 miles with low coolant. That is concerning and suggests a lack of care. Overall, my concerns were not taken seriously, the requested diagnostics were incomplete, and the car was returned to me with new issues. This experience has left me with serious doubts about the shop’s professionalism and attention to detail.

As usual very friendly and complete and through work. Theyre always very upfront about what needs to be done and whats most important to address and what can wait . A lot of other mechanics Ive seen over the years try to get you to have things done you dont really need. I def would recommend Johns to anyone looking for a great and honest mechanic shop

Excellent customer service

Johns is simply the best! Weve used them for years. They are honest, reliable and stand behind their work. Great people work here &I wouldnt take our cars anywhere else!

Always excellent service and wonderful staff. Love how they get me in and out quickly. Through exam of care and helped to find slow leak in tire and fixed before my road trip

Always a pleasure using John’s! They’re my first stop for everything. They’ll treat you great no matter what. I have tremendous respect for them because they’ll give you recommendations that are in your best interest and not necessarily theirs. Good people!!

They are the best!!

A return customer, I know what to expect and always come home satisfied with their service. Quality parts, honest pricing, and valet service today to and from my home nearby.

Always a pleasure to go to them for any service for my cars