PONDER AUTO REPAIR

Auto Service, Auto Radiators, Auto Inspections

About us

In 1982, Brian Ponder opened Ponder Auto Repair and has continuously provided bumper to bumper auto care ever since. Ponder Auto Repair strives "to fix the problems no one else can fix" and thrives on automotive repair challenges. At the heart of their philosophy is customer care, customer awareness and customer education. Ponder technicians are certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Ponder is the only shop in Johnson City to have earned the ASE Blue Seal of Excellence. Ponder Auto Repair also maintains memberships with the Automotive Service Association (ASA), International Automotive Technicians Network (iATN), and Be Car Care Aware.

Business highlights

43 years of trusted experience
Emergency Services Offered

Services we offer

AIR CONDITIONING, ACCESSORY REPAIR, BRAKE SERVICE, CLUTCH REPLACEMENT, DRIVABILITY DIAGNOSIS, DRIVE TRAIN, ELECTRONICS CONTROLS, ENGINE, MAINTENANCE, SHOCKS, STRUTS, & SUSPENSION, STARTERS & ALTERNATORS, & TUNE-UP. BMW, Volvo, Audi, Mercedes, VW factory scan tool.

Amenities

Warranties
Yes
Emergency Services
Yes


Accepted payment methods

American Express
Check
Discover
Financing Available
MasterCard
Visa

Reviews

4.745 Reviews
Number of StarsImage of DistributionNumber of Ratings
5
80%
4
11%
3
2%
2
4%
1
2%


Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
4.8
value
4.5
professionalism
4.8
responsiveness
4.8
punctuality
4.9
Showing 1-25 of 45 reviews

David M.
01/2017
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
Great. Very timely and inexpensive.
Description of Work: Wiring routed for block heater

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

Robert E.
07/2015
4.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
Installation of the compressor with well. Ponder has always done good work on every car we have taken to them. I guess the thing that bothers me is their "policy" of "not using customer parts" in order word don't bring them a oil filter or oil. We have always used mobile oil filters and synthetic oil. After telling my daughter their policy they also put it on the invoice. Spent $1200.00 and they don't want to use your oil and oil filter. While we will still get our work done there we wont be getting our oil changed at Ponder again.
Description of Work: Replaced Compressor , drierbag, and performed a full evacuation and recharge. Also change oil.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
4.0
professionalism
3.0
responsiveness
4.0
punctuality
4.0

Yes, I recommend this pro

Cherie C.
05/2014
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
They are wonderful. Their price is a little high than other services but they are personable and concern. They really care about their customers.
Description of Work: I used the auto service of Ponder Auto Repair.

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

William C.
12/2013
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
Since the problem was so intermittent it took a long time to resolve. The first repair they thought fixed it although the ignition module was not totally bad. It failed again after about a week and the they finally replaced the distributer as well. They spent a total of 3 weeks finding and repairing although most of the time was just being sure it was fixed. Given the intermittent failure The charges were fair. this was a problem that 2 other garages gave up on.
Description of Work: Truck would suddenly stop. After a period of time it would start and run normally. Problem only occurred once every 3 months or so.

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
$500

Caitlin C.
12/2013
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
Everyone here was prompt, professional, respectful, and friendly. We couldn't have asked for a better experience, and we'll definitely use Ponder again when the need arises.
Description of Work: We took our car 10-year-old Honda because the air conditioner had stopped working. The folks at the dealership told us we needed a needed a new compressor. The estimate they gave us for parts and labor was around $1,000. Ponder saved us a ton of money by suggesting a temporary fix (1-2 years) for the problem that we didn't even know was possible. After all, it is a 10 year old car with nearly 200,000 miles.

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

Richard P.
11/2013
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
seemed to do a good job and was done when they said it would be done. The price change a little when I went to pick it up. It went up about 25.00.
Description of Work: changed transmission fluid and filter

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
$153

Wallace D.
11/2013
1.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
This may be trivial to some, but I find it really irksome when you call a company to hire them, they say they will get back with you, and then never do. I was in need of a rebuilt motor for a Ford Mustang. A colleague at work had good things to say about Ponder, so I called them up. They took down my information and said they would call me back shortly with information about possible motor options. They never did. I didn't call them back because i don't feel i should beg to buy a product from company. Of course i also didn't hire them because if they are so unresponsive when trying to sell a job, they can't possibly be motivated to do better after they already have my down payment.
Description of Work: Auto Repair

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
professionalism
1.0
responsiveness
1.0


Kelli C.
11/2013
3.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
I didn't like speaking to one of the service men, not the owner, who had a little bit of underlying attitude and who sounded like he didn't want to take responsibility. However, after a little convincing and pushiness on my part, agreed that he would take it in. When I arrived, the owner, who was great by the way looked at my car and took full responsibility. They swiftly took my car back in and fixed the problem. I haven't had any problems since. Not sure if I would return there, especially if I had to deal with the same service man.
Description of Work: Needed an alternator. The first one they replaced mine with only worked a few days and it was dead.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
3.0
value
3.0
professionalism
3.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

$425

ALBERT F.
11/2013
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
Had to return it for additional work and another part, but I'm not dissatisfied. They were pleasant and eager to make sure my vehicle was fixed right. Kind of expensive I thought.
Description of Work: I was having an idling issue on our jeep.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
4.0
value
3.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$380

Ronald E.
11/2013
4.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
The ac works well. My only quibble is with the cost. Ponder is high quality work, but it is reflected in the price. My tendency now after using them several times is to use someone less costly for any kind of routine or non-complicated work. If I have a problem that might be difficult to diagnose, I would go to them again. Otherwise, I need to find service at a more reasonable price.
Description of Work: Charged ac system.

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
$200

Clifford L.
10/2013
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
Performed brake service on 2004 truck. Very professional, called concerning what they recommended, very timely. Would recommend them & will use them for future service on our other vehicles.
Description of Work: Brake service, wheel repair & oil change.

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
$436

Glenn H.
10/2013
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
My 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee had been sitting for a while, and at my request they gave it an overall inspection as well as the transmission and window/lock repairs I asked. Had the cracked belt failed I would have been stranded somewhere, I'm so glad they noticed it. I had been thinking of buying a new car, but I think I'll keep this one now that I know Ponder Auto will help me keep it in great condition. I live across town and when they heard me calling a taxi to take me home (I dropped off the Jeep), one of their guys said "I'm not that busy, I'll run you home". Can't beat service like that!
Description of Work: Fixed transmission/overdrive problem, electric windows and door locks, change oil & lube, replaced serpentine belt.

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
$1,100

Rebecca H.
09/2013
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
It took a while to figure out all the problems the dealership had created; then a day or so to get the parts. However, the guys at Ponder's went above and above the call of duty to get the car fixed and fixed correctly.
Description of Work: After I had the car at the dealership, the car torn up (w/in 48 hours and 20 miles). I had it towed to Ponder's and couldn't be more pleased.

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
$600

Guy R.
09/2013
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
Very responsive, got an appointment within two days, was completed before the end of the day. Ponder's Auto repair is very detail oriented.
Description of Work: Replaced malfunction distributor, replaces water pump, fixed rattling heat shield over manifold.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
3.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$600

Schwana R.
06/2013
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
We always have excellent service with him. They are always straightforward with us on the service. I don’t really know anything that they need to improve on. Overall, the price is average. Their professionalism is always good.
Description of Work: We go to Ponder Auto Repair for auto service. Our last visit there was for an oil change and a basic tune-up.

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
$197

Ruth G.
06/2013
4.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
They gave him a good estimate and actually were truthful with him and told him that it was not necessary to get the issue fixed. They did not charge a service fee or anything.
Description of Work: We took my son's car to this company for troubleshooting.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro

Brenda B.
03/2013
5.0
auto repair, radiator service
  + 0 more
I have used Ponder's in the past for auto repairs on other vehicles and have been very satisfied with the results. So when I had some repairs to do on my Honda CRV, I called for an appointment. They replaced the items needed and informed me that as far as the radiator cooling fan, it was just a loose connection and made the necessary repair so that the connection does not become loose again. They could have charged me for a new radiator cooling fan and I would not have known the difference. They have always been honest with me and I totally appreciate that. I am a female and could easily be taken advantaged of with auto repairs since I know nothing about them. I had a Pontiac Trans Am several years ago that I brought there due to having problems with the transmission slipping in and out of gear. It turned out that I had spilled too many sweet teas on the gear shifter and it just needed to be cleaned out. Again, they could have charged me for a new transmission and I would not have been the wiser. The only complaint I would have with them is that they are a very busy shop. When you call for an appointment, you usually have to wait a few days before they can get you in. But, they are very good, honest, and well worth the wait. (Which is probably why they are so busy.)
Description of Work: Front brake pads replaced, exhaust system replaced, cooling fan for radiator repaired.

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
$455

Sandy J.
03/2013
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
Ponder Auto Repair are a family owned business and customer oriented. They are very good. They are trustworthy.
Description of Work: They worked on three different vehicles we own, replacing some parts and doing tune-ups, that type of thing.

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
$900

Bo D.
12/2012
4.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
The experience was positive overall. They were prompt and friendly, as well as conveniently located.
Description of Work: We had some assorted O2 sensor issues and other minor repairs necessary.

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

Yes, I recommend this pro
$500

Teresa B.
10/2012
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
I have taken my truck to Ponders several times. They have fixed problems that others have failed to fix. They are always courteous and professional. They always take the time to explain to me the problems in a way I can understand. Sometimes they take a little longer than anticipated to complete the work, but the pricing and service are worth the wait.
Description of Work: today I had an oil change, diagnostic test, and the wiper blade fixed.

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

Yes, I recommend this pro
$75

Bob G.
04/2012
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
Brought my car in for a problem I was having with power for execration. I gave my idea of what was wrong, and left. The next day they called me and said that what I had described was wrong and told me what the problem was, and that it was fixed. It seems that the air intake had come lose. it is a simple problem to fix for a pro, and it was fixed. a number of other tests were run to make sure everything was in specs. I am so happy with my experience . I will go back for any further work and recommend them to any one.
Description of Work: Repair Air intake. Scan for miss fires.

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
$76.5

Lynn M.
03/2012
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
It was find and the people were most friendly.
Description of Work: Annual service: checked up oil change rotated tires, check the fluid levels, etc, wipers, presser, all OK They did an impressive job; couldn't be happier. Splendid job. as a matter of fact. Definitely will return.

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
$88

William W.
01/2012
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
Courteous and done on time. Willing to discuss what needed to be done in detail and talked me out of doing more expensive service than they felt was needed. Can't do better than that with auto service.
Description of Work: 60,000 mile service on Honda CR-V, turned rotors on front brakes, rotate tires.

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
$398

Randy C.
08/2011
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
I'd give them A's across the board.
Description of Work: We take our vehicle to Ponder Auto Repair.

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

TROY R.
06/2011
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
I had to schedule the appointment four days out since these guys are booked. I delivered the truck the night before and they had it repaired and ready to pick up by 9:30 on the appointed day. I will use this shop the next time a vehicle needs service.
Description of Work: 2001 Toyota Pickup check engine light. Started rough after sitting idle for several weeks, but self corrected over next several days. Took it to Ponder based on Angie's List rating. This was the first non-routine maintenance for this truck. Ponders cleaned air flow sensor and advised me that if the problem recurred, I would probably have to replace the sensor. So far, no problems. I had this same problem with another vehicle twice and each time the sensor was replaced at 400 to 500 dollars by another shop. I appreciate that Ponder diagnosed the problem and cleaned the sensor for 100 + tax instead of just replacing the sensor.

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
$114
    • 1(current)
    • 2

Contact information

915 W MARKET ST, Johnson City, TN 37604

www.ponderautorepair.com

Service hours

Sunday:
Closed
Monday:
7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Tuesday:
7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Wednesday:
7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Thursday:
7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Friday:
7:30 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 Radiators,
Auto Inspections

FAQ

PONDER AUTO REPAIR is currently rated 4.7 overall out of 5.

Sunday: Closed

Monday: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Tuesday: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Wednesday: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Thursday: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Friday: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Saturday: Closed

PONDER AUTO REPAIR accepts the following forms of payment: American Express,Check,Discover,Financing Available,MasterCard,Visa
No, PONDER AUTO REPAIR does not offer free project estimates.
No, PONDER AUTO REPAIR does not offer eco-friendly accreditations.
No, PONDER AUTO REPAIR does not offer a senior discount.
Yes, PONDER AUTO REPAIR offers emergency services.
Yes, PONDER AUTO REPAIR offers warranties.
PONDER AUTO REPAIR offers the following services: AIR CONDITIONING, ACCESSORY REPAIR, BRAKE SERVICE, CLUTCH REPLACEMENT, DRIVABILITY DIAGNOSIS, DRIVE TRAIN, ELECTRONICS CONTROLS, ENGINE, MAINTENANCE, SHOCKS, STRUTS, & SUSPENSION, STARTERS & ALTERNATORS, & TUNE-UP. BMW, Volvo, Audi, Mercedes, VW factory scan tool.

Contact information

915 W MARKET ST, Johnson City, TN 37604

www.ponderautorepair.com

Service hours

Sunday:
Closed
Monday:
7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Tuesday:
7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Wednesday:
7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Thursday:
7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Friday:
7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Saturday:
Closed