Subie Independent Service

Hi, Aleks here with the 2008 Subaru Legacy. Where to begin, I found this shop through a close friend after the dealership quoted me for head gasket work for no reason. This shop found the problem and fixed it in no time and more work-appropriate price. This has been my shop since then (2021). As I got close to 200k, I got the car on a mobile dyno and realized that I was 100 HP less than when the car came from the dealership. Instead of looking for the problem and investing a lot more time and funds, I bit the bullet and requested a complete overhaul of the engine: bearings, gaskets, pumps, whatever off-brand turbo I installed way, back when, and dented oil pan. I got the car back and am currently in the process of breaking in the newly rebuilt engine. However, I can already state that the engine feels a lot better and I'm able to gain speed at about 2500 RPM. Here are a few things I've learned during this project: - plan the project accordingly I didn't wait till the holiday season was over and put the car in the shop the second I rolled up to 199995 miles. - have a backup vehicle. Even though the shop has an agreement with a nearby rental shop, I am glad that I didn't rent one, since the whole rebuild took about 3 months. LA metro system isn't as terrible as they say if you need to get around. - have the shop follow up with you. A rough estimate is a rough estimate. Some things are out of the shop's control. Have trust and they will follow up with you. All and all, I'm happy with the results, and aftercare to get the car back to its full power. Also, a big thank you for cleaning out my engine bay. It's hard to find a detailing shop that will take on a detailing engine. P.S. If you ask nicely, Mark and Victor may allow you to take a pick at the engine taken fully apart.
Mar 21st, 2024

Very trustworthy, fairly priced, and knowledgeable. Highly recommend
Feb 23rd, 2024

I'm absolutely car illiterate and they took time to explain what needed to be done and why it would cost what it did. They saved me a TON of money compared to the dealer and were done in very good time considering the amount of hours required to basically take my car and engine apart then put it back together. I will be bringing my car back here in the future!
Jan 27th, 2024

Only two words? Trustworthy and knowledgeable. These guys are THE Subie guys in the valley. They are thorough, communicative and will go the extra mile for your needs. I had the car inspected by my local dealership and these guys also let me know on what they saw. Caught all the same big repairs and some small things too. More than reasonable and fair about options, prices and modifications if desired. This is for you guys who see cars as companions. For those of you who believe in keeping them alive because they deserve to and because its the best type of recycling. Definitely will be my go to guys for this car.
Jan 16th, 2024

I strongly advise steering clear of this establishment and dealing with Mark, as it could save you a considerable amount of frustration. Unfortunately, my experience with their services has been far from satisfactory. After entrusting my 2013 WRX for a rebuild at Mark's shop, I paid the necessary fees and eagerly retrieved my car. However, it became apparent from day one that something was amiss, as my vehicle exhibited abnormal behavior. Fast forward six months and a mere 8,000 miles later, my car experienced a blown head gasket a significant setback after the supposed "rebuild." While Victor was a commendable aspect of the business, the overall lack of integrity and subpar workmanship is truly disheartening. I have unequivocally decided never to return my car to this establishment, even if they were to offer remedial services. What compounds my disappointment is the realization that I'm not alone in encountering such issues with this company. It appears that others have faced similar problems, raising concerns about the overall quality of their services. In the interest of constructive criticism, I would suggest that Mark consider selling the business. Running an honest and reliable establishment seems to be a significant challenge, and a change in ownership might bring about the necessary improvements to regain customer trust and satisfaction.
Dec 25th, 2023