Central Service Auto Repair

Had what might have been a very dangerous situation with my front wheel, around the worst time of the year - snow tire install season. I went to the local mechanic I was giving my business to and they said I'd have to wait 2 days before they could look at it. I went to a big chain service shop, and was told to come back later with $100 just to diagnose it, with no actual timeline for the fix, which they thought might be around $500. I'm a senior and had a 15 km drive to my home in winter weather with no roadside assistance. So I left and came upon Central Auto. Cameron immediately saw the issue and recognized the seriousness of the problem. Even though his bays were full, he swapped out a car on the hoist and put mine up to fix right away. When I asked what the cost was I was relieved to hear it was not only affordable but even less than the diagnostic fee alone at the other shop! The mechanic who worked on it noticed a disconnected wire to the battery and took the time to fix it at no extra charge. This crew's kindness and compassion has restored my faith in humankind! They have gained a new customer who would recommend them to anyone who wants 5* service, and knowledgeable mechanics at affordable prices. Wishing Cam and the whole gang at Central Auto St Catharines, a very Happy and Prosperous New Year!

Excellent service from these guys! They are very fair and the prices are good. They also are very transparent with how long the service will take.

While visiting my parents from Barrie, a strap holding the shield covering my gas tank broke. I got the car to Larry’s (as my elderly dad still calls it) about an hour before closing. They immediately put my car on the hoist, and even when they couldn’t find and order the part, they spoke with my mechanic at home and told him what he needed to order. Being stranded far from home -and needing a long tow home - is an awful feeling but Dave and Cam and the mechanic who looked at my car redeemed my day. It’s wonderful to know that guys and businesses still exist like this. Thank you! (It also gave me the opportunity to personally thank Dave for picking up my dad’s car for years at his retirement home and returning it when the job is done.) Thank you again!

My absolute favourite mechanic! I had an issue with my car after a minor car accident, and I originally took it to a big chain mechanic (that will remain nameless). The estimate I was given from that other place said it was going to cost between $1000-1700. I brought the estimate to central auto and they fixed it for $113. Happy to give them my business, knowing they do what’s best for the customer, while that other place was trying to squeeze every dollar they could from me.

This amazing local business has owners/staff who are friendly and honest. They don’t have a fancy waiting room with a big-screen tv and free cappuccinos. They don’t have a driving service: so walk home and get your steps in while they work on your vehicle :) What they DO have, is exactly what everyone wants and needs from their local garage: competence, honesty and trustworthiness. I always leave laughing at their jokes with only the work that my car actually needed, at a lower price than anywhere else.