CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc

Auto Service, Auto Inspections, Auto Tires,

About us

Since 1979, CMI has been providing the highest level of honest and professional automotive service, maintenance and repairs. For over 32 years we have strived to make our customers our friends. We are proud to say the majority of our new customers are referrals from previously satisfied customers. CMI’s technicians combine the newest technology with old fashioned personal service to give you the finest auto maintenance experience.

Business highlights

46 years of trusted experience

Services we offer

Repair and maintenance of domestic & foreign auto, light trucks, new vehicle battery, replacement, brakes, clutch, computer engine analysis, cv boots, drivability and electrical diagnosis, emission testing and compliance work, exhaust system, fuel injection and carburetor service, radiator-cooling systems, steering, suspension, struts and shocks, timing belts & transmissions.

Services we don't offer

Body repairs & painting


Accepted payment methods

American Express
Check
Discover
MasterCard
Visa

Reviews

5.045 Reviews
Number of StarsImage of DistributionNumber of Ratings
5
98%
4
2%
3
0%
2
0%
1
0%


Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
4.9
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0
Showing 1-25 of 45 reviews

Wende D.
12/2017
5.0
auto repair, car tires, car inspections
  + 1 more
We purchased a used car and brought it to CMI for a follow-up inspection. Mike didn't try to upsell me on anything I didn't need. He recommended we replace two tires and change the oil because there was no indication of when it had last been changed.
Description of Work: Inspection of a new car and subsequent routine maintenance.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro

Corinna C.
11/2015
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
I couldn't be more happy with the service I received! While the news I got about my car's needed repairs wasn't good, I was extremely happy with how honest they were about the costs. They explained the problem and the cost to repair it, and then also pointed out that I was only about 5K miles away from my 100K checkup which would cost a lot of money as well. Then they explained that with the upcoming costs, I might want to consider whether I want to invest that much in car or consider getting a new one. I'll never suspect them of trying to sell me services that I don't need after how upfront they were about that! They could have easily sold me the major repair and I never would have considered the upcoming expensive maintenance. My husband and I have always been happy with their service in the past and now we're definitely going to be customers for life.
Description of Work: Inspected my car for why I was hearing a sound when I steer and applied a temporary fix.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$100

Response from CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc
We work hard to make sure our customers are satisfied. Thank you for the repeat business.

Sherri M.
04/2014
5.0
auto repair, car tires
  + 0 more
See above. They went above just installing a new battery. I asked about an oil change which was due 6 months ago or in 3,000 more miles. the car sat all winter so he assured me I can drive another 3,000 miles before changing the oil. He also called me back with a quote on rear struts for my hatchback door and the quote was competitive. I will continue to use this service provider as I am very satisfied with them and recommend them strongly to anyone wanting services.
Description of Work: Changed a dead battery, adjusted the time on my clock, did draw test, checked fluids/tires and made sure the battery cables are ok.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$162

Terry /Julie M.
09/2013
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
Numerous times CMI found out that it was a simple low cost repair then what I thought it might be...
Description of Work: CMI has been taking car of our family cars for years... you name it, CMI has done it...

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$200

deborah C.
09/2013
5.0
auto repair, car inspections, car tires
  + 1 more
I wouldn't take my car anywhere else. Mike, the owner, cares about you as if you were family. I trust him completely and know he will not take advantage. I have an older car and feel that it will last a lot longer under their care. On my last visit, the inspection he did turned up issues with two of my tires and the cable that goes to the battery. The other bonus is that this business is in my neighborhood. He will arrange rides for me if the weather is inclement and I can't walk home.
Description of Work: Changed oil, rotated tires, complete inspection.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$100

John W.
06/2013
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
I found them on Angie's List and they did a very nice job. They did everything that they could for the car. I was very happy with the work they provided the car is running better now. I would use them again in the future if I needed to.
Description of Work: CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc is who we hired to do a tune up on my car about six weeks ago.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$500

Response from CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc
We look forward to seeing you again. Thank you for the business!

Chad D.
04/2013
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
We own a 2009 Ford Flex which began making a loud squealing noise just a few days before we were going to drive up north for our spring break vacation. Mike made accommodations to squeeze us onto the schedule and Fred was able to diagnose the issue and get the car fixed in time. He told us after the fact that they actually had to custom build a replacement part because their parts store had brought the wrong part to them but they knew we didn't have the time to wait for another part. Now that's customer service!!
Description of Work: Repair to rear brakes.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$500

Response from CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc
Thank you for the great feedback! Customer satisfaction is one of our main goals!

Lynn C.
01/2013
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
Dropped off the car and walked 1.5 blocks to train station for ride to work. Car was promised by 5 pm, completed by 1 pm. All problems solved at a fair price. Very convenient. Many neighbors have praised CMI for years but this was our first visit. We'll be back!
Description of Work: Tune-up, many other adjustments.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$275

Response from CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc
We look forward to seeing you again. Thanks for great feedback!

Jeffrey O.
05/2012
5.0
auto repair, car inspections, Uncategorized
  + 1 more
I like the fact that they are very honest and straightforward. They try to save my money whenever possible. They are just a great company, and they do not mess around with us. It was a good deal for everything that they offered.
Description of Work: I used CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc. for oil change and inspection of my car. My engine requires more oil than usual.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$60

Response from CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc
Thank you for the great feedback! We look forward to seeing you again.

Anthony A.
11/2011
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
As always CMI did a good job Upfront on pricing and on time service Haven't found a better shop in the area
Description of Work: Oil & Filter change Complete vehicle inspection before going on a trip

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$75

Response from CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc
Thank you for being a loyal customer. We appreciate the feedback.

Peggy S.
06/2011
5.0
heating & air conditioning/hvac
  + -1 more
Cool air / warh Air - A/C compressor about to go - replaced by CMI. I have taken all my cars. There(20 years) no returns, they are the best in town !!
Description of Work: Diagnose : replaced A/C compressor - serviced system - re tested.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$789

Response from CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc
Thank you for being a loyal customer. We appreciate the business!

Daniel C.
06/2011
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
Excellent service - completed in a timely manner - call received at home to notify us car was ready.
Description of Work: Oil change - air conditioner check - check brakes.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$200

Response from CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc
Thank you for the kind words. Please come again!

Terry /Julie M.
06/2011
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
CMI replaced the AC fan resistor last year, (the fan will only run on High - known problem with Chrylser's)... Mike found that it had failed again and replaced it N/C... Only the front brakes needed to be replaced... I am pretty sure another shop would have replaced the rear brakes... Mike also found that that the radiator cap was leaking and replaced it at cost. Oil & filter change. Front brakes and rotors replaced Flushed ABS system AC resistor replaced N/C Replaced radiator cap Checked fulids Road tested car
Description of Work: Always a pleasure doing business with Mike... Took my wife's car in for an oil change and brake job.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$475

Response from CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc
We work hard to make sure our customers are satisfied. Thank you for the repeat business.

RW Z.
06/2011
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
They are currently doing work on my car. I trust them, and they do good work.
Description of Work: I've been taking my vehicle here for 2 years.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro

Response from CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc
Thank you for giving us your repeat business.

RW Z.
11/2010
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
Mike at CMI has provided thoroughly professional sevice.
Description of Work: I first went to Mike at CMI to diagnose an intermittently malfunctioning transmission, and when it finally failed completely, Mike recommended a trans specialist who replaced it at a fair price. Separately, CMI has also provided excellent routine maintenace on both my vehicles over the past year or two.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$2,000

Response from CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc
Thank you for the kind words and repeat business.

John B.
11/2010
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
I have been using them for more than 25 years. I am very happy with them. I go there for anything that is wrong with my vehicle. They give me excellent service and they give me options. The quality of their service is outstanding. I go to them whenever there is a mechanical problem. Earlier this year, the air conditioning wasn?t working. They worked on it. I will continue to use them in the future.
Description of Work: I used Creative Mechanix Inc., two to three months ago.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$250

Response from CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc
We strive for complete satisfaction...thank you for being a dedicated customer.

John B.
07/2010
5.0
I have been going to them for over 30 years. I am very satisfied with their work. I go here for everything...I go for the easy stuff and the hard stuff.
Description of Work: They have worked on my '72 Oldsmobile, '85 Monte Carlo, and my Cougar. Anything I have to do with my car, CMI does.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro

Response from CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc
Thank you for the kind words and repeat business.

Anthony A.
07/2010
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
They performed the work as quoted . Very satisfied
Description of Work: Had oil & filter change and overall inspection

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$40

Response from CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc
Glad to hear you were satisfied...please come again!

Terry /Julie M.
07/2010
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
Went in for some general fixes, ie the Resitor for the AC need to be replaced, oil change, lube, etc.... I thought i needed a 'tune up' but after they checked out the car, they said it was running fine, (they checked all the codes) and advised me that the car was running fine... saved me over $300....
Description of Work: Went in for some general fixes, ie the Resitor for the AC need to be replaced, oil change, lube, etc.... I thought i needed a 'tune up' but after they checked out the car, they said it was running fine, (they checked all the codes) and advised me that the car was running fine... saved me over $300....

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$160

Response from CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc
We always strive to provide fair and honest service at CMI. Glad to hear you are satisfied.

Jeffrey O.
03/2010
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
First off, I do not remember the exact amount spent on this visit (it's been a few months, and yes the cost was more than $0.00, however, I would not want to include anything deemed inaccurate, so I left it out). I do have to say, I found this mechanic on Angie's list and felt appropriate that I comment on what I have observed. I have been with CMI for about a year now. I have found this shop to be extremely honest, and straight forward. They seem to be sincerely interested in making sure that you are happy with their service. They have never suggested repairing anything that does not need repair. I highly recommend this shop without reservation.
Description of Work: Tire and Brake work.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro

Response from CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc
Thank you for the kind words.

SAUL T.
11/2009
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
They did excellent work. The service was extraordinary. I have used them again since then, and the service was, once again, very good.
Description of Work: They did some brake work for me.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
4.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$750

Response from CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc
We work hard to keep our customers satisfied. We appreciate the kind words.

CHARLOTTE W.
07/2009
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
They are always very good to me. They help walk me through getting another car from another customer. They are fine people and very helpful.
Description of Work: I have all my work done there. I have it serviced there every 3 months

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro

Response from CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc
Thank you for being a loyal customer. We are glad to help.

Peggy S.
10/2008
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
I just want everyone to know that CMI is the BEST place to have your car worked on! We've been taking our cars to Mike, the owner, for 15 years and COMPLETELY and TOTALLY trust him and the work his mechanics do. Appointments have NEVER been a problem as I've ALWAYS gotten in within a day or two. When I go on road trips, I have my car "trip checked". As a result of my trust in CMI, I ALWAYS feel confident that everything is in good working order when I leave. When my engine light came on somewhere between Chicago and Atlanta, I pulled over, looked in the owners manual, then called Mike. He asked me questions, determined that I was OK to continue on, told me what to watch for, and said to call back with any other questions or concerns. It's the quality of work and the trust in the mechanics who work for Mike that keep bringing us back but it's also the warm feeling of having Mike know who we are and greet us by first name when we come through the door.
Description of Work: My engine light came on. I was due to have my emissions checked so I called Mike and made an appointment to bring the car in. Their diagnostic came up with a problem with the catalytic converter. They changed that along with their routine check of the car. He told me to drive a couple hundred miles so everything could reset and then bring it back in so they could make sure everything was running good to have the emissions checked. Before the 200 miles were driven, the engine light came back on. As it turns out, along with the catalytic converter being bad, the problem solved and decided to check the gas cap since not turning the cap completely after getting gas can cause the engine light to come on. What they discovered was my car still had the original gas cap which had several cracks in the seal. They replaced it with a new cap and I haven't seen the engine light since. I drove it well over the 200 miles in my driving trip to Atlanta and back and it was perfect. Mike wouldn't let me pay for it until he was sure what they did fixed the problem. My car ALWAYS goes to CMI (Creative Mechanix, Inc.) because of my complete TRUST in Mike and the excellent mechanics who service it.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$300

Response from CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc
Thanks for the Page of Happiness nomination Member. We really appreciate having great customers like you.

Mary S.
09/2008
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
Mike the owner is really nice, and he was able to squeeze me in. He checked the battery, and everything else for me. He was great. I had an appointment for an oil change a couple of days later, so Mike told me that we would settle up with me when I came back for an oil change so there would only be one charge.
Description of Work: My battery died in my car.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
4.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$216

EILEEN L.
06/2008
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
They are the best! I will continue to use them, as they are honest and their work is excellent and they tell you what you need. They won't do work that you don't need.
Description of Work: They have been my servicing my car for at least 5 years.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
    • 1(current)
    • 2

Contact information

251 N Eric Dr, Palatine, IL 60067

creativemechanix.com/wordpress/

Service hours

Sunday:
Closed
Monday:
8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Tuesday:
8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Wednesday:
8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Thursday:
8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Friday:
8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Saturday:
Closed

Licensing

Insured
State Contractor License Requirements

All statements concerning insurance, licenses, and bonds are informational only, and are self-reported. Since insurance, licenses and bonds can expire and can be cancelled, homeowners should always check such information for themselves. To find more licensing information for your state, visit our State Contractor License Requirements page.

*Contact business to see additional licenses.


Service Categories

Auto Service,
Auto Inspections,
Auto Tires,
Heating and Air Conditioning,
Auto Radiators,
Auto Transmission,
Auto Mufflers

FAQ

CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc is currently rated 5 overall out of 5.

Sunday: Closed

Monday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Thursday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Saturday: Closed

CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc accepts the following forms of payment: American Express,Check,Discover,MasterCard,Visa
No, CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc does not offer free project estimates.
No, CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc does not offer eco-friendly accreditations.
No, CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc does not offer a senior discount.
No, CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc does not offer emergency services.
No, CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc does not offer warranties.
CMI - Creative Mechanix Inc offers the following services: Repair and maintenance of domestic & foreign auto, light trucks, new vehicle battery, replacement, brakes, clutch, computer engine analysis, cv boots, drivability and electrical diagnosis, emission testing and compliance work, exhaust system, fuel injection and carburetor service, radiator-cooling systems, steering, suspension, struts and shocks, timing belts & transmissions.
Body repairs & painting

Contact information

251 N Eric Dr, Palatine, IL 60067

creativemechanix.com/wordpress/

Service hours

Sunday:
Closed
Monday:
8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Tuesday:
8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Wednesday:
8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Thursday:
8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Friday:
8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Saturday:
Closed