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2024

Last updated:

Best Auto Repair Shops in Columbia

Our Recommended Top 19

We did the research for you!

  • Licensing
  • User Reviews
  • Mystery Shopping Calls

Our goal is to connect people with the best local professionals. We scored Columbia Auto Repair Shops on more than 25 variables across five categories, and analyzed the results to give you a hand-picked list of the best.

45

Reviewed

34

Curated

19

Top Picks

Learn about our selection process.

Providers

featured provider = Featured Provider

Website
Columbia, SC
  • brake repair

Why choose this provider?

Car Genius is staffed by RepairPal auto repair experts who provide mechanical advice and education on vehicle repairs and maintenance. Our Geniuses can help with investigating issues that your car may be facing; car repair best practices; specific car repair and maintenance costs; what that noise, dashboard light, symptom might be; what to ask and expect at the shop; the best repair facility for your specific needs; deciphering that repair estimate; and follow-up on any post-repair questions or lingering issue. RepairPal brings trust and transparency to auto repair by helping millions of customers feel confident that they're getting a fair price. The RepairPal Certified Network consists of 3,000+ trusted shops and dealers nationwide that have undergone our rigorous certification process which guarantee the facilities are expertly staffed, trained in the latest technologies, use high- quality tools and parts, and warranty their work for at least a year or 12,000 miles.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
3.6
Facebook
3.6 / 5 (59)
Google
3.9 / 5 (9)

Price: Free Consultation

Columbia, SC

Why choose this provider?

Need help contacting a Auto Repair Shop in Columbia? Call our Concierge team at 848-Book-Pro (848-266-5776 from 6 am - 4 pm PT | Mon - Fri). They are standing by to help you get the service you need.

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Price: Free booking service | Call 848.Book.Pro!

Website
4031 Broad River Rd, Columbia, SC 29210
  • AAA Certified

Why choose this provider?

C&C Automotive Columbia, SC, has been providing services in the metro since 1977. It handles domestic and foreign vehicles, correcting parts—including brakes, exhausts, belts and hoses, and engines—that have been damaged or broken. They also keep automobiles safe and efficient through routine maintenance, which covers wheel alignment, battery replacement, and oil changes. C&C Automotive was founded in 1977 by John and Aaron Clements, a father-and-son team who also hosts an automotive show on WGAC 580 Talk Radio.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.7
Google
4.7 / 5 (260)
Facebook
4.6 / 5 (103)
Yelp
4.0 / 5 (3)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
3933 Broad River Rd., Columbia, SC 29210
  • ASE Certified

Why choose this provider?

Rushing Automotive is a family-owned and family-operated business serving clients in the Columbia metro. Its crew provides technical and mechanical repairs for domestic and foreign vehicles that cover shocks, struts, and wheel bearings. Its ASE-certified technicians also perform transmission repairs, engine cooling system maintenance, and oil changes. Rushing Automotive has been in business for more than 18 years. It strives to provide quality customer service by employing automotive solutions that are safe for the environment.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.8
Google
4.7 / 5 (95)
Facebook
4.9 / 5 (40)
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (19)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
6220 Saint Andrews Road,, Columbia, SC 29212
  • State Inspection

Why choose this provider?

Minnie's Auto Repair helps car owners in Columbia to keep their vehicles in tip-top condition. It provides different types of car care, such as engine maintenance, oil changes, brake checks, transmission services, tires, and heating repair. It carries tires for varying makes and models of vehicles and handles installation as well. The shop provides maintenance and preventive work backed by various warranties. It is a female-owned auto shop that helps clients feel less stress and uncertainty when looking for reliable service.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.6

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
631 S. Assembly St., Columbia, SC 29201
  • State Inspection

Why choose this provider?

Pope Davis Tire & Automotive - Columbia serves clients across the area. The company deals with vehicles with different broken or faulty components—including brakes, drivelines, and mufflers—and performs required repairs. It also inspects the car's steering and suspension systems to detect potential problems and help clients avoid issues like abnormal bouncing. To help vehicle owners looking to purchase new wheels, the company carries product options from a range of brands, from American Racing to Petrol. It has been in the industry for over 40 years.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.2
Google
4.4 / 5 (171)
Facebook
3.6 / 5 (62)
Yelp
4.0 / 5 (14)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
2652 Two Notch Road,, Columbia, SC 29204
  • Ford Service Center

Why choose this provider?

Martin's Motorworx, LLC serves the needs of car owners in Columbia. The auto repair shop has ASE-certified technicians who handle transmission repairs and replacements, tune-ups, brakes and rotors checks, computer diagnostics, and electrical repairs. Its group also handles window motor regulators and solves check engine light issues. Its team of technicians has a combined 26 years of experience and works on private and commercial vehicles. The shop offers same-day service for most of its repairs.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.5
Google
4.5 / 5 (53)
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (11)
Yelp
3.0 / 5 (2)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
1120 Olympia Ave, Columbia, SC 29201
  • State Inspection
  • Smog Inspection

Why choose this provider?

Redmond's Auto, LLC, provides auto repair services in Columbia. The company repairs a wide range of vehicle parts, from engines and transmissions to exhausts and cooling systems. Its auto technicians—who have over 47 years of combined experience—also perform computer diagnostics, safety and emission inspections, engine performance checks, oil changes, and factory-scheduled maintenance. The facility—run by a husband-and-wife team—has been maintaining both foreign and domestic vehicles since the 1960s. The company prioritizes the welfare of its mechanics as a way of recognizing their abilities and can-do attitude.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.5
Google
4.5 / 5 (81)
Facebook
4.6 / 5 (30)
Yelp
4.5 / 5 (6)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
1410 N Millwood Ave, Columbia, SC 29204
  • State Inspection

Why choose this provider?

Suddeth Automotive Service has been serving the needs of car owners in the Columbia area and the nearby metros since 1971. This automotive repair facility starts with a 30-plus point courtesy check to accurately diagnose car problems, handling issues related to air conditioning systems, engines, steering and suspensions, transmissions, and exhaust systems. Its mechanics also offer pre-trip and pre-purchase inspections, oil changes, and fleet maintenance services. Routine maintenance services, such as oil changes and tire rotations, are also available.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.2
Google
4.4 / 5 (48)
Facebook
3.4 / 5 (14)
Yelp
4.0 / 5 (4)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
Columbia, SC 29206

Why choose this provider?

D's Automotive is a certified NAPA AutoCare Center located in Columbia. The company has been serving customers in the area for more than 15 years and employs only ASE-certified technicians. A full slate of auto repair and maintenance services are available. The shop offers a 24,000-mile, 24-month warranty and a rotating set of promotions.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.5
Google
4.4 / 5 (61)
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (8)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
2100 Rosewood Drive, Columbia, SC 29205
  • State Inspection

Why choose this provider?

Import Specialties serves the Columbia metro by providing car repair services for both import and foreign vehicles owned by clients. It offers a number of services such as automotive machining services, radiator services, transmission services, oil change jobs, and engine replacement works. The business also performs mechanical restoration services for British or European cars. Its managing partner and chief technician, David Cohen, is ASE certified. Import Specialties accommodates vehicles like BMW, Jaguar, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.0
Google
4.3 / 5 (128)
Facebook
3.7 / 5 (46)
Yelp
2.5 / 5 (13)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
Columbia, SC 29210

Why choose this provider?

Broad River Auto Repair has been providing customers with preventative maintenance and auto repairs in Columbia for more than two decades. Both of the company's owners are ASE-certified Master Auto Technicians, and the company is accredited by the Better Business Bureau. The shop services nearly all foreign and domestic vehicles, both cars and trucks.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.8
Google
4.8 / 5 (77)
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (24)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
2032 Sumter St, Columbia, SC 29201
  • Smog Inspection

Why choose this provider?

Clark's Auto Clinic provides services to customers throughout the Columbia area and the surrounding communities. Its technicians maintain, repair, and restore vehicles, helping drivers maximize their safety while on the road. Their expertise includes changing oil and filters, flushing cooling systems, inspecting air conditioners, installing injectors, cleaning tank additives, and removing worn-out gear oil. The professionals also check wheels and replace belts and hoses. Clark's Auto Clinic has been operating for more than 56 years.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.6
Google
4.6 / 5 (79)
Facebook
4.6 / 5 (18)
Yelp
3.5 / 5 (3)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
3137 Two Notch Road, Columbia, SC 29204
  • BMW Service Center
  • Mercedes-Benz Service Center

Why choose this provider?

Philips Auto Tech is an auto dealership that maintains cars for clients in Columbia and the surrounding metros. Its technicians perform factory service requirements for cars like Mercedes Benz, Volvo, BMW, Acura, Land Rover, and Toyota. Every car that is brought to the facility for service is also hand-washed. Philips Auto Tech, a part of Philips Motor Company Inc., was founded by George Philips in 1983. The facility was expanded in 1986 to include a 14-bay Bosch service center.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.5
Google
4.5 / 5 (134)
Facebook
4.8 / 5 (25)
Yelp
4.5 / 5 (6)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
Columbia, SC
  • State Inspection

Why choose this provider?

Midlands Motorworks is a locally owned and operated auto repair shop that serves clients in Columbia. Its services include repairs using OEM parts, covering issues with the clutch, timing belts, engine, spark plugs, and heating systems. It performs light metal fabrication and welding on ferrous and non-ferrous alloys. Midlands Motorworks specializes in BMW and Mini Cooper vehicles, and supplies programming of used modules for late models. It also programs key fobs. In addition, its technicians work on Asian models from Mitsubishi, Subaru, Infiniti, and Lexus.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.9

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
West Columbia, SC 29169

Why choose this provider?

Havird Tire Co., Inc. has been family-owned and operated in West Columbia by the Havird family for more than 75 years, starting as a gas station and evolving into an auto repair shop. The shop provides customers with a full range of auto repair and maintenance services in addition to selling all the major tire brands. The shop is open Monday through Friday, but can be contacted online at any time.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (4)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
Columbia, SC 29223

Why choose this provider?

Donahue's Auto Service is a Columbia-based auto shop that specializes in automatic transmission maintenance and repair. The company is a member of the Automatic Transmission Rebuilder Association (ATRA) and abides by the association's code of ethics. A rapid quote service can be accessed online by filling out a form on the company's website.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.6
Google
4.6 / 5 (67)
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (8)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
3.8
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail
––

Website
1628 Gervais Street, Columbia, SC 29201
  • ASE Certified

Why choose this provider?

Complete Car Care is an auto repair shop located in the Columbia metro where they aid in different automotive services. These include air conditioning/cooling system repair, driveline maintenance, fuel & air induction clean-up, oil filter replacements, and power steering flush services. Since 1990, its ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certified technicians been working on minor and major repairs with different car makes, and strive to uphold their code of ethics for the safety of drivers and passengers.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.6
Google
4.6 / 5 (206)
Facebook
4.8 / 5 (52)
Yelp
4.5 / 5 (16)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
111 North 12th Street, West Columbia, SC 29169
  • State Inspection
  • Smog Inspection

Why choose this provider?

Old School Automotive & Tires performs engine repair, transmission repair, battery replacement, and oil change. It caters to the needs of Columbia-based car owners, drawing on the team's more than 25 years of combined industry experience when carrying out the services. Owner Keith Nuttall grew up assisting his grandfather and father on their vehicles and racecars. He runs the car service facility with his deep knowledge of car repair solutions. The company also offers annual vehicle checkups.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.9
Google
4.9 / 5 (257)
Facebook
4.8 / 5 (41)
Yelp
4.5 / 5 (7)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Introduction

    Automobiles have increasingly become a necessary convenience. They can also be extremely frustrating when not operating properly. Knowing the basics of car maintenance can help you make informed decisions as you move forward.

    One key point to understand is the difference between auto body and auto repair shops. Auto body shops focus only on the body, or the nonmoving parts of the vehicle. Auto body technicians repair dents in doors and fenders and replace broken windshields.

    Auto repair shops handle the components that contribute to powering the vehicle or making it stop. Auto mechanics maintain and repair components, such as electrical wiring, engines, transmissions, and brakes.
  • What maintenance does a car need annually?

    Some routine maintenance, such as an oil change, is recommended every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, and other services, such as belts, hoses, and fuel filters, should be addressed quarterly. Annual upkeep includes brake and suspension checks. Specific maintenance depends on the miles driven and the vehicle's age. Consult the car's service manual for more detailed guidelines.

  • What does it mean when your car says maintenance is required?

    The vehicle's maintenance required light comes on at specific mileage intervals. If the car's been driven more than 4,500 miles, it might illuminate to remind you that an oil change is necessary to maintain optimal performance. The maintenance required alert differs from the check engine light, which appears for specific operating issues that need to be addressed.

  • How much should I budget for car maintenance?

    While AAA recommends setting aside $1,200 a year ($50 a month to cover auto maintenance and another $50 for repairs), much depends on the make and condition of the specific vehicle. A basic oil change and filter is approximately $50. However, the same service for a Mercedes-Benz costs as much as $200, according to The Detroit Bureau.

    Keeping up with routine maintenance will help prevent some major repairs, but components such as timing belts and brakes ultimately need to be replaced, putting a $400 to $900 dent in your wallet.
  • What kind of maintenance do electric cars need?

    Monthly maintenance should comprise checking the tire pressure and windshield wiper fluid. At 7,500 miles, the battery, power inverter, cabin heater, and charger modules' coolant levels need to be checked. A visual inspection of the vehicle's other moving parts, such as the power steering and suspension, should also be included.

  • Can you negotiate car repairs at a dealership?

    Dealerships use a sales or service writer management team to estimate parts and labor repair costs. Their mechanics focus on repairing the vehicle. While it's possible to negotiate a more palatable rate with dealerships, their preset pricing systems are more structured than independent shops. It pays to be prepared with cost comparisons.

  • Is car repair insurance worth the cost?

    Car repair insurance typically covers the repair of mechanical breakdowns, such as air conditioning, electrical and fuel systems, engines, and transmissions. The caveat is that a standard car repair insurance policy only covers a vehicle up to 72,000 miles, according to Forbes. Few vehicles experience major mechanical problems under 100,000 miles, and if they do, they're usually covered under warranty.