James Madison Shell (Chahel Automotive)

Auto Service, Auto Inspections, Auto Tires,

About us

Welcome to James Madison Shell (affiliated with Chahel Automotive), bringing over 25 years of locally-owned automotive experience to the Northern Virginia area. We are your one-stop, on-the-spot auto service headquarters for inspections, repairs, and a complete line of quality tires. For years, we have provided Northern Virginia with the latest products and unprecedented services for everything we sell. And for years, our customers have been coming back. Take a look around. If you don’t find what you need, visit us at one of our convenient locations today. From the latest and best in tire technology to the services required to keep your vehicle looking good and running great, Chahel Automotive can get you out on the road quickly and affordably. Stop by soon and see why so many people consider Chahel Automotive to be the one-stop shop for all their tire needs. We pride ourselves on our friendly and knowledgeable staff and our quick and dependable service professionals. Stop in and see why we are the area's leading auto service provider. James Madison Shell.

Business highlights

37 years of trusted experience

Services we offer

Auto Service – Air Conditioning, Air Filters, Alignments, Batteries & Electrical Systems, Belts & Hoses, Brakes, Check Engine Light, Computerized Diagnostics, Cooling System Maintenance, CV & Drive Axles, Diesel Engines, Electrical, Emissions Testing, Engine Rebuilding, Exhausts, Flushes, Fuel Systems, General Repair, Oil Changes, Radiators, Inspections, Suspension, Shocks, & Struts, Tire Installation, Repair, & Rotation, Transmissions, Wheel Balancing, Windshield Wipers, & Windshields.

Amenities

Free Estimates
Yes
Warranties
Yes
Senior Discount

10%



Accepted payment methods

American Express
Discover
MasterCard
Visa

Photos of past projects

Reviews

4.843 Reviews
Number of StarsImage of DistributionNumber of Ratings
5
84%
4
12%
3
0%
2
0%
1
5%


Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
4.8
value
4.8
professionalism
4.9
responsiveness
4.8
punctuality
4.8
Showing 1-25 of 43 reviews

Nestor F.
05/2017
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
It was perfect. He did excellent work.
Description of Work: He repaired the assembly for mounting the license plate on my vehicle. He had to take apart the back door on the SUV.

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
$50

Steven K.
04/2017
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
I go back there every time. They are reliable, quick service and clean. They take good care of the property. It took about 20 minutes.
Description of Work: I use them for the VA state inspection on my car.

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
$32

Anika O.
01/2015
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
Fantastic. Prompt, curteous, and detail oriented. Even washed my car during the service!
Description of Work: Pre-purchase car inspection.

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
$150

Richard Y.
10/2014
5.0
auto repair, car inspections
  + 0 more
Great service & very professional & reasonable.
Description of Work: Oil change. Auto 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
$90

Paul T.
05/2014
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
Very well. Did What I asked wirh a pleasant demeanor
Description of Work: Service and 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

Stephen S.
05/2014
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
In the past, I've used those 'speedy' oil change places and never thought to use James Madison Shell for that service (I should note that over the last 20 years or so I've taken all our car(s) to them for their annual inspections and environmental certifications; mechanical repairs of various kinds; and new tires). They suggested I call to make an appointment - and they were able to take me at a time convenient for me. In and out in about 20 minutes - and they even topped up the air in my tires. In short, I'm a big fan of James Madison Shell - they are courteous, professional, thorough, communicate clearly and completely about repair costs; and have good magazines in their waiting room!
Description of Work: Changed the oil, checked stuff (including filters)

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

Steve W.
04/2014
5.0
auto repair, car inspections
  + 0 more
This was my first time using this company as my long-term garage was under-going renovations. I was happily surprised that they had evening hours for inspections and didn't try to find minor issues to fail the inspection, or try to sell me on phantom repairs. They were courteous, professional, and took the normal 20 minute to complete. They had a small seating area indoors to wait out the inspection, which was nice. The price was the standard established price set by the state for the services. If my current garage is not able to perform a future service for whatever reason, I will definitely give this place a try.
Description of Work: State Inspection and Emissions Testing

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
$48

Richard C.
03/2014
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
They seem like very nice people, but the price that I got on a starter from them was double of what it would cost me in the auto part store so I end up buying starter from my suburban. They just seem to little bit high in terms of pricing. They were very friendly, very direct and they were definitely good, but the price is just too high. They are very straightforward. They seem like they are reasonable local mechanic although I have not tried their services. They are clean and nice place. The gentleman was friendly, professional and courteous on the phone. He is probably one of the most honest and knowledgeable HVAC contractors that I have met in Northern Virginia. He does what needs to be done and at a very affordable price and he is a gem. I would use them in the future.
Description of Work: I got a quote from James Madison Shell, but I end up doing the work myself. It was sometime in beginning of February. It was for to replace a starter on a 99 Chevy suburban.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$440

Paul R.
03/2014
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
For many years we have used Merchants Tires in Vienna. However, when they got a new manager their overall service and responsiveness declined noticeably. We started to use James Madison Shell and have been very happy with the quality of the service and the price. They will match prices, are responsive, and provide full service, including scheduled maintenance on just about all models. Their gas prices are not necessarily the best, but for everything else we take both of our cars there routinely.
Description of Work: Replaced battery. Previously used for scheduled maintenance and repairs.

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
$120

Donna P.
03/2014
5.0
car tires
  + -1 more
They are fine. They were polite and professional. They are excellent. I would continue to use them in the future.
Description of Work: I used James Madison Shell auto tires probably three years ago. They just put tires on one of my vehicle. I had to take it back for re-balancing but they did that fine.

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

Boyd H.
09/2013
5.0
auto repair, car inspections
  + 0 more
I go here every time I need my car inspected, whether I lived in Vienna, Alexandria, Reston, or Fairfax, for like the past 7 years. 5 cars in all. Good, friendly, honest guys that even helped me out when I had to get the dead fog lights removed (took it off for free). Can't recommend highly enough!
Description of Work: Car Inspections

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
$24

Michael M.
08/2013
5.0
It was performed satisfactorily, and the people at the front desk were more than helpful. They alerted me to the fact that the car being inspected, a 1988 Jaguar, might not need an emissions inspection, something I didn't know. So, I was more than pleased.
Description of Work: They did a safety inspection.
Rating CategoryRating out of 5
Yes, I recommend this pro

Michael M.
08/2013
5.0
car inspections
  + -1 more
It was performed satisfactorily, and the people at the front desk were more than helpful. They alerted me to the fact that the car being inspected, a 1988 Jaguar, might not need an emissions inspection, something I didn't know. So, I was more than pleased.
Description of Work: They did a safety inspection.
Rating CategoryRating out of 5
Yes, I recommend this pro

Marcella B.
08/2013
5.0
car inspections, muffler repair
  + 0 more
I've been going to James Madison Shell for many years. The inspection process is very organized and the technicians are professional. They have convenient extended hours for inspections. There is comfortable waiting area inside although the inspection is completed quickly. I love that they send me a reminder card with coupons each year when my inspection is due.
Description of Work: State inspection & emissions

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
$39

Brian D.
12/2012
4.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
The check engine light in my Honda Civic hybrid was lit, and after checking the code, I determined it was a problem with the air/fuel (O2) sensor. I took it in to James Madison Shell since they were able to see me the next day. They even offered to give me a ride home since I don't live far away, pretty nice. They verified the problem and fixed it the same day without trying to up-sell me on other services, like many other places often try to do.
Description of Work: Checked air/fuel sensor and replaced it.

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

Yes, I recommend this pro
$150

Karen S.
09/2012
5.0
auto repair, car inspections
  + 0 more
They are great. They are very friendly, helpful, and very responsive.
Description of Work: They have done oil changes, brake changes, auto state inspections, and a variety of different services over the 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

Scott R.
09/2012
5.0
auto repair, car inspections
  + 0 more
Their service has been great. I purchase their VIP service to reduce the cost of my routine maintenance. Whenever I have to leave my car for any work someone takes me home and picks me up when my car is ready. They are very nice people.They also have a nice waiting area with magazines and newspapers.
Description of Work: I have been using their services for several years now. Most recently they replaced my entire exhaust and did an oil change. They have also done my routine state inspections for the last twenty five years.

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

Yes, I recommend this pro

Charles S.
09/2012
5.0
car inspections
  + -1 more
Everything has been fine. They found nothing wrong with my vehicle.
Description of Work: They have done my routine state auto inspections.

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

Colin E.
09/2012
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
They were running a promotion and offered a free oil change. They were friendly and quick. We were pleased with the service. We have since moved away from the location.
Description of Work: We used their services once for an oil change.

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

Yes, I recommend this pro

Beth D.
09/2012
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
They are really personable and treat me better than the dealership. Their prices are fair. They are wonderful!
Description of Work: They did a lot of auto service and most recently did an oil change.

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

Marian S.
09/2012
5.0
auto repair, car inspections
  + 0 more
We have no complaints with the service. Their work was fine. They were also very easy to work with and cooperative.
Description of Work: They have done routine auto service and maintenance on our vehicles. They have also done a state inspection.

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


REGINA R.
09/2012
5.0
auto repair, car inspections
  + 0 more
The experience has been good. However, I did take my vehicle to GM for extensive work and they told me James Madison put in the wrong antifreeze. That was the only problem I had with their services in many years. They do a good job and are convenient. They are also fast and very professional.
Description of Work: They do our regular state inspection and oil changes. They also service my daughter's vehicle regularly.

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

Yes, I recommend this pro

PAMELA J.
09/2012
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
It was the Saturday of Labor Day weekend and they were able to get her in that same day. They were timely and completed the work quickly. They were really concerned about the safety of my daughter. We were really pleased with the service.
Description of Work: There was smoke coming from my daughter's vehicle. They repaired some wires in the engine.

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

Yes, I recommend this pro

WILLIAM S.
09/2011
4.0
auto repair, car inspections
  + 0 more
The experience with the company has been very good. I have no complaints. It was just a general thing that they did and everybody can do that. There was nothing in particular. They were quick. I will use their services again in the future.
Description of Work: I take my car to James Madison Shell for auto service. I last took my car to them I think about two months ago for some regular stuff. They did an emission check for me.

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

Yes, I recommend this pro
$20

Response from James Madison Shell (Chahel Automotive)
Thank you very much for your feedback. We would love the opportunity to perform scheduled maintenance or some sort of repair on your vehicle to show you that we have some great expertise. While we do a fantastic job with inspections and oil changes, we also have the capacity to tackle more complicated repairs.

Marian S.
06/2011
5.0
auto repair
  + -1 more
I have used them over the years for gasoline and or routine repairs. We have always had a good relationship with them.
Description of Work: They replaced a headlight.

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
$44
    • 1(current)
    • 2

Contact information

545 Maple Ave W., Vienna, VA 22180

http://www.chahelauto.com

Service hours

Monday:
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday:
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday:
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday:
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Friday:
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday:
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Licensing

Bonded

Insured

No License Required for Trade

Trade License Number
1536
Trade License Locale
Town of Vienna
Trade License Authority
Commonwealth of Virginia
Trade License Expiration
05/31/2017

Eco-friendly Accreditations

LEED Accredited Professional
No
Energy Star Partner
No
EPA Lead-Safe Certified
No
Use Green Products or Work Practices
Yes
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,
Auto Mufflers,
Auto Glass,
Natural Gas Lines,
Auto Radiators,
Heating and Air Conditioning,
Glass and Mirrors,
Electrical,
Auto Transmission

FAQ

James Madison Shell (Chahel Automotive) is currently rated 4.8 overall out of 5.

Monday: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Tuesday: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Wednesday: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Thursday: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Friday: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Saturday: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM

James Madison Shell (Chahel Automotive) accepts the following forms of payment: American Express,Discover,MasterCard,Visa
Yes, James Madison Shell (Chahel Automotive) offers free project estimates.
Yes, James Madison Shell (Chahel Automotive) offers eco-friendly accreditations.
Yes, James Madison Shell (Chahel Automotive) offers a 10% senior discount.
No, James Madison Shell (Chahel Automotive) does not offer emergency services.
Yes, James Madison Shell (Chahel Automotive) offers warranties.
James Madison Shell (Chahel Automotive) offers the following services: Auto Service – Air Conditioning, Air Filters, Alignments, Batteries & Electrical Systems, Belts & Hoses, Brakes, Check Engine Light, Computerized Diagnostics, Cooling System Maintenance, CV & Drive Axles, Diesel Engines, Electrical, Emissions Testing, Engine Rebuilding, Exhausts, Flushes, Fuel Systems, General Repair, Oil Changes, Radiators, Inspections, Suspension, Shocks, & Struts, Tire Installation, Repair, & Rotation, Transmissions, Wheel Balancing, Windshield Wipers, & Windshields.

Contact information

545 Maple Ave W., Vienna, VA 22180

http://www.chahelauto.com

Service hours

Monday:
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday:
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday:
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday:
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Friday:
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday:
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM