Service repair for 2016 Subaru forester
We are done taking our Subaru forester to the dealership for maintenance. Does anyone know of a trustworthy, reliable mechanic / service repair that is located in Oakland/Emeryville, San Leandro, or Alameda? We are trying to keep this vehicle going for as long as possible without being price gouged or told to do needless things for the car. Thank you for your help!
Apr 16, 2025
Parent Replies
Art’s Automotive on San Pablo in Berkeley! I took my 2003 Subaru Forester to them for years (since 2007ish), and they were excellent at exactly what you are asking for… they always laid out my options but didn’t push unnecessary stuff onto me. They also communicate clearly, run on time, and fulfill their promises (ie, if they say it’ll be done by 5, it’s done by 5.)
When I finally got a new(er) car last year, I bought a brand that Art’s services so that I can keep going to them. I recommend them unreservedly.
Art's Automotive on Russell at San Pablo. I have been taking my cars (including my 2019 Subaru Outback) there for 35 years and they are the best of the best. They always explain what you have to do NOW, what you could do, what can wait, and what you really don't have to do at all.
We have taken our Subarus to Art's Automotive in Berkeley since 2005. They do excellent work, are trustworthy, and mindful of cost. We have never felt price gouged or sold anything unnecessary. Plus they're friendly! https://artsautomotive.com/
Howdy there, depending on what work you need done on your Subaru, I'd recommend either Dan Chin's for smaller work, and Art's Auto for more serious repairs.
We owned a Subaru Outback for 15+ years, and had great results with both places. Again, Art's is where you'd go for the bigger things: transmission problems, wheel bearings, electronics, etc., and use Dan Chin's for things like headlight bulb replacement, brake adjustments, small dashboard electronic problems.
Art's Auto: 2871 San Pablo Ave., Berkeley 510-540-7093
Dan Chin's Auto Service: 2558 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley 510-848-7682
Best of luck to you.
Bit outside the area you mentioned, but when I had a Subaru Forrester for ~10 years we took it to Mike's Auto Service in Berkeley on University Ave. They took good care of our car and were always honest with assessments and repairs. They also don't try to overreach and do things they don't think they can do -- when we got a German car he recommended taking it elsewhere since it's not their specialty.
Try Art’s Automotive on San Pablo in Berkeley.
It could be a little bit of a trek for you, but we also have a 2016 forester and love Argonaut Garage in Berkeley. They really explain everything thoughtfully, have recommendations for future service, and they’ll get you a Lyft home when you drop off your car. One time I was pulling away after they had done some work on the car and they flagged me down because a tail light was out, which they then very quickly replaced for free before I left. They also often wipe down the inside of the car while it’s there.