52 Automotive

Since we were almost on top of Thanksgiving, I expected to wait until after the holiday weekend. Instead, Russell quickly gave me a very good price for the job, and it was done in a half-day...couldn't ask for faster service.

I usually take my Honda Element to the dealer for service, but after the last couple of service appointments I wasn't happy with the time and expense involved. When the A/C fan suddenly stopped working, I needed a quick repair. Neighbors recommended several places, but I chose 52 Automotive. I called on a Wednesday afternoon and arranged to bring it in the next morning. Based on my experience with the previously mentioned dealer, I expected the repair to take all day, perhaps even and quot;we have to order a part, bring it back tomorrowand quot; and cost anywhere from $250 on up, depending on the problem.
I was very pleasantly surprised. Despite it being a busy shop, they took my car in as soon as I arrived and had the problem (a burnt-out relay switch) diagnosed within 15 minutes. The owner himself went to pick up the part. The entire repair, including waiting time and travel time to get the part and return, took an hour and a half. I was charged one hour of labor and the cost of the part, so the total bill was $125.
Here's the thing that sold me on 52 Automotive: I know a little more about cars than the average woman. I taught high school physics, and I have done repairs on my own cars. Too many times I've had mechanics and car salesmen try to pull the wool over my eyes, so to speak, and I have no problem getting up and walking out if I feel they are trying to take advantage of me. The owner went to great lengths to explain the diagnosis process and repair, and I was very comfortable with everything he said. Not only did he show me the broken switch, but he attached a copy of the part invoice to my bill.
I plan on returning to 52 Automotive for any future repairs, and highly recommend it to my family and friends.