Mitchell's Auto Repair

I own a 1990 Toyota Camry which had an oil leak from August 2009. I took my car to Strauss, Pep Boys, and even One Stop Shell (a AAA approved facility yet) and they all told me that it will cost me at least $500 to fix/replace four different things or in the case of One Stop, $900 to fix everything, from the oil pan gasket to whatever was underneath it. Frustrated, I was going to give up on my car but I was still determined to find a better and more inexpensive way to fix the car with only what was actually needed to fix. Doing some research, I went to Mitchell's as my last hope to fix the oil leak. Mitchell persoanlly looked at my car and told me that the leak was coming from only one place, the valve cover gasket was worn and needed to be replaced. Mitchell even showed be the old parts from a dumpster, I never asked for them - - what a big plus in honesty.

And you know what??????? The total cost to repair the valve cover (parts and labor) was only $165. Not only that, my car is in better shape than ever before. After I took my car back for an oil change, I took my mother for a short ride through Brooklyn. My mother's first impressions on how the car sounded (after the oil change and repair of the oil leak) was amazing, she told me the car sounded like almost brand new and performed flawlessly. Since I am the driver, I can attest that my car's performance has improved with little or no knocking.

In the age of shady mechanics and subpar franchises eager to rob you of your wallet and destroy your car, Mitchell's Auto Repair stands out as a genuine rare gem in the auto repair business. Do note that Mitchell's services are "by appointment only" so please call ahead to make an appointment to see him. However, he does allow drop offs so you can head to work and pick up your car later in the evening, please talk to Mitchell about this convenience.

Pros: Great honest service, straightforward answers, good work

Cons: No weekend hours, not an AAA facility

Posted 10/04/09

I recently bought a new car and wanted someone to check it out before I bought it. Mitchell worked me right in and took me through everything step by step showing me any pros and cons with the car. He was very thorough. He test drove the car as well and again was very thorough in checking the whole car over. He really knows what he is talking about. I am not from brooklyn but I would drive the hour and a half just to go back to him because he is so efficient and thorough. Thanks Mitchell.

Posted 06/19/09

What makes this place special is Mitchell's honesty, the great work and excellent customer service that he provides and the reasonable prices that he charges.

I never imagined that I could say all this about an auto repair place!

Thank you so much, Mitchell.

Pros: Honesty, Great Work, Excellent Customer Service, Price

Posted 06/15/09

I first found Mitchell's Auto Repair a year and a half ago, after getting tired of the crummy service from my local mechanics. He impressed me quite a bit at the time, both with the way that anything he fixed *stayed* fixed and with his honesty about whether I should have repairs done immediately, or if they could be postponed for a while. He was honest about his prices, and goes out of his way to combine jobs so that labor costs are lower.

Then I moved, and foolishly thought "well, if there is *one* good mechanic, surely I can find another, closer to home." It only took getting burned once--charged 5 times the retail cost of parts, and $278 for maybe 45 minutes of work.

So I brought my car back to Mitchell's, despite the fact that now that I've moved, he's more than an hour from my new place by train.

He checked out the car, told me the work the bad mechanic had suggested wasn't necessary, and he explained why, and showed me what to look for in the car to keep on top of that problem should it occur.

Every time I bring the car to Mitchell's, he takes the time to show me what the problem is, and he checks out other issues in the car so that I have the option of combining work, to save on labor. He has fixed a few small problems for free (tightening belts and the like).

I cannot say how much I appreciate the confidence I have that, if he recommends work, it actually needs to be done. I also appreciate that he is more interested in helping me to keep my car in running order than in making a ton of money for himself. Mitchell is the best mechanic I have worked with--the only one I could say was a *pleasure* to work with.

And for general information, he is doing this work on a '97 Subaru with 240k miles on it. He assures me that so long as I keep up the maintenance, I'll get another 100K miles out of it. With Mitchell, I think I will.

Pros: good prices, excellent work, integrity, customer service

Cons: an hour from my house by subway

Posted 03/18/09

I've been going to Mitchell's for a few years now and they never fail to surprise me how quick, fair, and easy they make going to the mechanic. I would definitely recommend them as they always do the job right, the mechanic staff is amazing, and I always get out of there quicker and cheaper than I expect compared to the other guys.

Pros: Great service, expertise, customer service, price

Posted 03/01/09

I don't know too much about cars, but every time I took my car to be checked I was told that it needed a lot of work. My friend told me to try Mitchell's Auto, and I did. Mitchell checked my car and told me that I didn't need to do anything for the time being. I really appreciated his honesty. Thank you Mitchell!

Posted 02/28/09

We bought a BMW over a year ago and it has been such a nightmare for us! I don't think we ever had a good experience with mechanics anywhere. They all seem to want you to fix all these "problems" So the last time we took our car to this one shop, they fixed a minor problem that we had with the car, but somehow they ended up busting something else. After we picked our car up, two days later it literally started to smoke! the smoke really scared the **** out of us. I mean we just got our car fixed for crying out loud!! We had to take it to the nearest auto shop, I don't remember the name, but it turned out that we were leaking antifreeze and it was evaporating and that's what caused the smoking effect, no it's not the same kind of smoke from a fire, but I can assure you, if you see that while driving, your heart would definitely drop to your pants. Needless to say I am cautious of taking our car anywhere. Now we're stuck with this antifreeze problem. After doing some research online we thought we were going to take it to L&M auto, which is so popular and they get such good reviews, so we called Bill and he said he was going to charge us $40 just to look at the car without even diagnosing any problems. That , to me seems pretty absurd. I mean if you just want to throw away money that's fine, but I think if I'm spending 40 bucks I better get something out of it. So we started shopping around and that's when I decided to give Mitchell's auto a try. I came in with skepticism of course, but to my surprise, Mitchell was very courteous. He showed me all the problems with the car and explained everything thoroughly. He tightened a couple of things and told me that should stop the leak, but if not, then I should come back. He sent me home without charging me anything! Now that's an honest mechanic. So far so good, I just hope that this thing stop leaking, but if not, then I would definitely take it back to Mitchell. Thank you.

Pros: good honest service

Cons: Zero

Posted 12/18/08

I recently moved to Brooklyn, thinking this was the last trip for my beloved VW Jetta. A mechanic in Vermont had told me the underside was so rusted, the car wouldn't pass its next inspection. As a result of this diagnosis, I had let a lot of things go that I would ordinarily maintain. Before resigning it to the scrap heap, I decided to get a second opinion and took it to Mitchell's. He put it on the lift and eventually brought me over to inspect with him because he had no idea what my Vt. mechanic was talking about. Not only was it not too rusty, but it was in pretty good shape. I had him go ahead and do all the things I had neglected, including struts and a broken spring. His price was more than fair, he was careful to show me exactly what he had done and what each charge on the bill covered. And when I left, the car drove better than the day I bought it. That was two months ago and it's still running great. I am relieved to have an honest and skilled mechanic here; he exudes everything great about Brooklyn.

Pros: honest, skilled, professional

Cons: haven't discovered any yet

Posted 11/30/08

I moved to Brooklyn this summer and was looking for a good mechanic for standard maintenance. After reading the reviews on Citysearch, I decided to give Mitchell's a try, and he was wonderful! Mitchell was personable and accommodating, and was very honest and up-front about cost, etc. I was expecting to leave my car in the shop for at least a few days, be he had my car working and ready to go the same day! As a young woman who knows nothing about cars, I am always worried about finding a respectful and honest mechanic. Mitchell's treated me with total respect, and I would highly recommend them to anyone!

Pros: honest, friendly, near the D/M train lines

Cons: none!

Posted 11/17/08

We just got our car (a '99 Honda CRV) back today; my husband and I had brought it to 3 other garages, including the dealer, and nobody knew how to deal with the litany of problems we were having with it. The first place wanted to do an engine rebuild, and the dealer just threw parts at the problem, did unnecessary repairs and charged through the roof. Not only did Mitchell and his crew fix the car (which is now driving PERFECTLY), but he also explained everything that he and his crew had done, and even took photos of the process.

Mitchell has all of the qualities you would want in a surgeon, a chef, ...or a mechanic. He is intelligent and passionate about his work, he communicates well, and he listens. I can't recommend him enough!

Pros: Great communication, knowledgeable, honest

Cons: small garage; no waiting area in the garage

Posted 06/02/08

I brought my 2004 Volvo S80 to have it checked for what I thought might be a problem with my brakes. Based on the reviews I had seen I decided to visit Mitchell. His place was smaller than I expected but the service was world class. We test drove to listen for the sound, he put it up on the lift, checked all four wheels, placed grease on the suspected area where there might be rub, told me I had enough life on all until my 60,000 checkup (I'm at 57,000) and checked what would be needed for my 60,000. I stayed for a good half hour and he charged me nothing but a handshake. My local dealer would have guaranteed charged me $200.00 and given me an estimate for everything they 'found'. Mitchell is a class act and I will recommend him to anyone willing to travel to Brooklyn for great service.

Posted 05/25/08

I hate going to the doctor, as well as to a mechanic. When the window on my minivan was not working, and there was a banging noise when pressing on my brakes, I really had no choice but to take the car in. After researching for best auto repair service, it narrowed down to Mitchell's Auto Repair. I have to say that Mitchell's personalized service made a dreary experience - well, not so bad. The window part was ordered, fixed and now works great. The banging noise wasn't the brakes at all, and when they put the car on the lift and showed me the broken piece, I was glad that I wouldn't drive around in a dangerous vehicle anymore. That was also fixed right away, and my car feels like new again. From here on, I will always go to Mitchell's Auto Repair for my car, now if I can only find a doctor as good- for myself.

Pros: Very happy with purchase! A+++

Posted 05/06/08

My daughter is in college in Brooklyn, and we live in Atlanta. He took care of my daughter's car like a surrogate dad! He spent all the time needed talking to me long distance so I felt like I really knew what was going on, as well as explaining things to her so that she truly understood what she was paying for. I cannot express how much that means - knowing her car and safety is in good hands and a father's watchful eye so far from home! Mitchell is just the best!

Pros: Fast, totally efficient, on time, no surprises except good ones!

Cons: Absolutely NONE!

Posted 03/03/08

I was very very happy to be referred to Mitchell's Auto Repair. I felt taken care of, not cheated, and told honestly what was going on with my car. He fixed my car as needed, and no more. He told me there was more that could and should be done, but that it wasn't necessary which allowed me to make a decision based on my budget, yet feel that I was safe.
He's a great guy, and not out to take advantage of people. He'll fix your car correctly and not do more than needs to be done.
I highly recommend Mitchell's.

Posted 02/25/08

Have any of you been disappointed and cheated blind by an auto mechanic ?
I have....................and for years.
Several mechanics had told me that my 98 Volvo had some serious issues that needed to be resolved before it coud pass inspection,yet I did not trust any mechanic I knew.
I was in the grip of desperation .............................
The Volvo dealer surely would have the expertise to repair the auto properly but they are obscenely expensive..............
After some quick research on the Internet I discovered Mitchell's...................a diamond in the rough!!!!
Admittedly from a first impression the place does not look like much,yet I am not one to be easily swayed by outward appearences.............and I am so glad I stuck to my decision to use Mitchell.
Mitchell turned out to be an expert mechanic who exudes trust ,is extremely personable, yet is very, very
reasonably priced.
My Volvo did have several serious issues which were quickly and professionately resolved.
I eagerly advise anyone who is in need of an expert mechanic who is quick , will treat you and your car with the respect you deserve!
wether your car is an expensive foreign luxury car or wether its a beater..........

After years of searching , I have found the expert mechanic I have been looking for.............

Pros: its the mechanic you have been looking for all your life

Cons: its in brooklyn

Posted 12/31/07

This place is a great find. My car was making a low creaking noise getting louder by the day and I didn't know any mechanics in Brooklyn that I trusted. I checked out the reviews on Citysearch and gave Mitchell's repair shop a call. They said to come over as soon as I could get there to take a look--- an hour later a my car was checked out, Mitchell took it on a test drive and took a look on the lift, diagnosing bad stabilizing links. They called to get the parts which arrived seemingly immediately, did the job, replaced a blinker light that was out -- all in less than half an afternoon, at a reasonable price. Mitchell and Tony are the best and I will definitely be a regular customer

Posted 12/19/07

I have been taking my cars to Mitchell's for more years than I care to recall despite his not being located near my home. He has NEVER disappointed. He, and everyone in his shop, know what they are doing and do it well, efficiently and always at a price that pleases. Mitchell never pads his estimates, never inflates the problem, never cons you on the time it will take to do the job and always deals straight. I have brought him my Fiats, Hondas and Toyotas, each in turn, and felt secure in just leaving the car there and having him check it out and deal with whatever issues he finds. When I return to pick up the car he gives me a price that I am convinced is an honest price. (Yes, I've checked on that from time to time and he has always come out ahead.) I trust him completely; he is a man of honor and integrity. (Also, he is a lot better looking than his photo would have you believe.)

Posted 11/08/07

Made an appt with Mitchell's based upon reviews on this site, Mitchell, himself, answers the phone and is very pleasant, helpful and seems knowledgeable. I asked him if he had experience servicing my make of foreign car and he said he had one on the lift that very moment adding that he was very familiar with them. A headlight and brake light were out so that was #1 on my list to replace as well as checking the source of an oil leak and a noisy muffler. I left the car with him first thing in the morning of the day of my appt. By mid day he thought he found the source of the oil leak and said he needed to get the part which he was unable to do that day. The next day, the part still hadn't arrived. On the third day, I told him I needed my car back for the weekend whether repairs were completed or not, and told him I'd return when he had the part in the shop. I drove away with the muffler repaired at a high cost but the 2 lights still out. It was disappointing to me that he didn't replace the light bulbs in that time. I didn't return. My mechanic in my hometown who specilizes in repairs of my make of car is able to diagnose, obtain needed parts and complete repairs of most problems the same day. Maybe I have been spoiled but Mitchell's didn't meet my level of satisfaction.

Posted 10/31/07

Thrilled to have found Mitchell. After calling three shops to get an estimate for my clutch on my Subaru Mitchell's price was the best by over $200. I asked him to check out a few other things which turned out to be fine. His phone estimate was accurate to the penny. I was on my way the same day. I will definitely return. Highly recommended.

Pros: trustworthy, efficient, great prices

Cons: no coffee machine

Posted 10/12/07

I went to this place because of the positive reviews, however I was blown away when I was charged $45 for 99 cent windshield wiper fluid!

Although I do not doubt the knowledge of "Mitchell", he WILL take advantage if he can. (And he took advantage of me.) I asked him to just look at my car to see if it was driveable for a long trip. I mentioned a few problems and asked him for suggestions--although he never really investigated anything. He looked under my hood for ten minutes advised me to get a new muffler and then charged me $45...."to compensate for the windshield wiper fluid.....", he said. This, he charged after glancing at my engine and telling me my 91 Infiniti was indeed drivable and without any serious problems!!!!!!!

I was never given an estimate beforehand, and I was very surprised to be charged anything (although a small fee is understandable). However, he charged me $45 for doing nothing and diagnosing by having a "hunch". Indeed, he could have set the price at anything and expected me to pay it, because he never quoted me a price beforehand. I will not be returning to Mitchell's and advise others to stay away unless you have serious car problems. He is not cheap and his business practices are questionable.

Thanks!

Posted 08/03/07

Found this place on the internet, read these other reviews, and he definitely lived up to it. Replaced the clutch on my old Subaru fast, and for a great price. Friendly and professional, took the extra time to explain what was done, and even checked out the belts for me. Estimate was right on point, and he explained all the charges. I'll defintely go back for any future work. I recently moved to BK and was concerned about finding a trustworthy place to take my car. I highly recommend this place.

Posted 03/12/07

Blink and you'll miss it, but in this beautifully grimy little nook on 39th Street, Mitchell and main man Khan keep the motorhead light burning proud. Mitchell's the real deal - smart, affable and fast - and once you roll your ride into the entrance of his shop you'll never go anywhere else for automotive service. High-end Krautmobile? He's got you covered. Park Slope street beater? Bring it on. He'll tell you what you need and why, how much it'll cost and how long it'll take, and that's that. And if you want to hang around, he'll reveal the mysteries of the timing belt and tell you how to keep that 'check engine' light from ever coming on. He answers the phone himself. He knows your car better than you do. He bleeds 5W-30. And he's a truly nice guy.

Pros: Honest, Skilled, Cheap

Posted 02/01/06

I felt helpless until I discovered Mitchell's Auto Repair. I was at the dealer, when I was told I needed a host of repairs immediatly. The cost was much more than I could afford and the car only had 47,000 miles. I called a friend who referred me to Mitchell's where I was given quick and professional service. He showed me what I needed and what I didnt and why.The repair was quick and at a fraction of the dealers price.While waiting I noticed a book on his desk written by guess who...What the experts may NOT tell you about auto repair, which I have since read...great easy reading. Mitchell Zelman has been my mechanic ever since

Pros: fair price, honest, proffessional

Posted 12/10/05

I drove here from Seattle in my '94 Subaru wagon, which is not in the most top-notch condition. I was here a few months when a belt or something broke and was very wary of most mechanics/garages that I happened upon. Luckily I found a similiar review of Mitch's shop, praising his expertise and (ever so important) genial personality. He is wonderful. He was articulate explaining the car's problem to me and making sure I approved of the repairs. He provided a very thorough assesment of costs and the time needed to do the work. As someone who was very unfamiliar with Brooklyn and local mechanics I consider myself so fortunate to have happened across Mitch's shop and would not hestitate to reccomend him to everyone I know.

Pros: Articulate, Good Prices, Extremely Reliable

Posted 11/03/05