Ben White Automotive - South

Good dianostics and good work at a fair price. Offerd to fix other issue that I already had a bid on for a better price. Good shop

Pros: Fast and Fair

Cons: none

Posted 12/10/09

I want to swing these guys some props!! i think i finally have found a good place to bring our cars! they didn't screw us ... the repair is still repaired and they did a bit of body work(side fender was falling down) for free and didn't even mention it ... my husband and i are like the side of the car is fixed! THANKS BEN WHITE AUTO FOR PIMPING MY RIDE!

Pros: honest, straight forward guys that like working on cars!

Cons: none

Posted 12/03/09

I don't know anything about cars, so am leary of all repair shops. But have been using Ben White Automotive South for quite a while now. As my son said, "they are dudes who like to work on cars". I feel like I'm always treated fairly and with respect. I have recommended them to friends.

Pros: friendly, fast, reliable service

Posted 12/02/09

They're so straightforward that you feel like you don't have to get bids from other shops - you know that you're getting an honest job at an honest price.

I had my suspension fixed here. It was by far the cheapest price I found, and it was done in two days. The only problem was lugging it way south of town. Otherwise I highly recommend them.

Pros: Straightforward, honest, reliable, and not too expensive.

Cons: Way south of town. It's a hike.

Posted 11/30/09

I had just bought a car. It is an older car. I was referred by a friend. I took my car in to have them look at my A/C. They serviced it and gave the car a look over that afternoon. I will take my car there for now on.

Pros: friendly, helpful and affordable

Posted 11/23/09

Recently moved to Austin from New York and needed to fix my A/C. They found that it was only a faulty plug and didn't lie or try repairing something that didn't need to be and then charge and arm and a leg. Very professional and credible, they fix the problem, they don't steal your money.

Posted 11/12/09

I am soooo happy that I have found BWA. Oscar, the service manager, is very honest and professional. He took the time to explain what the problem my Jeep had and how much in detail I was charged for. It is not an easy task because I know nothing about cars and I am very cheap. The technicians did a wonderful job, and I paid at least $300 less than other shops wanted for the same job. From the bottom of my heart, I believe BWA is trying to build a reputable business by providing customers with quality services at reasonable prices, totally not like so many other shops I had been to. Keep up the good work!

Pros: trustworthy, professional, very reasonable prices

Cons: have not found one yet

Posted 10/29/09

Ben White Automotive did a free buyer's check when I got my car. Recently, the brakes started squeaking periodically. They put my car up, looked at the brakes and told me the brake pads had just "glazed over" -- I didn't need to replace them and the brakes worked fine. They didn't even charge me for looking at the brakes b/c it just took them a couple minutes. Very honest people. I feel like a lot of other car repair shops would have told me I needed new brake pads.

Posted 10/16/09

I took my car in at noon on a Friday for what turned out to be a major problem. They did a diagnostic and gave me estimate and said it might be ready on Sunday. On Sunday it was not ready, but they told me they would knock off one day's rental car charge. When I picked it up early Monday afternoon, the price was less than expected and as promised the rental car charge was deducted. Good Service. Good Value. Good Experience.

Pros: Value and Service

Posted 10/07/09

Gave me a quick and honest quote. Have used them before and will again. Would use them over the dealership.

Pros: Professional, helpful, honest

Cons: Don't always have the part in stock

Posted 10/01/09

Professional team. May not always have parts in-stock for cars that are less common. Will go there again.

Pros: Thorough, professional

Posted 09/28/09

Had some work done there last year. They did a great job. Dropped off my van there this week, hopefully will do a good job again. Quote seems a little pricey but they did honor a warranty on some of the parts they installed last year.

Pros: convenient location

Posted 09/25/09

I needed and oil and filter change on a recently purchased used car, but I also wanted to know if there was anything I should go to the dealership for under my warranty because it was about to run out. BWA fully checked out the car and confirmed the car's service was up to date and in good shape for 30K miles, and they didn't charge me a penny more than for the oil change.

Pros: BWA listens to what you need and hits the mark

Posted 09/22/09

Thursday I had an appointment at another service center and for several reasons I left that business. It was 7:45AM and I was close by Ben White and I 35. I remembered researching other service centers and the "Ben White Automotive"popped into my head-To make a long story a little shorter,I took my car to them because my check engine light was on. When all was said and done I was informed that the problem was just a gas cap that didnt fit well. When I asked what the charge was I was shocked to hear Kevin say NO CHARGE..............They did use their time and equipment to diagnose the problem but still did not charge me. I will definately be using their garage for any problems with my two cars. Thank you Kevin !!!

Pros: many

Cons: not so far

Posted 09/21/09

Never had any problems at this shop and have always given me a good deal.

Posted 09/16/09

I drove my truck around with 100 degrees weather without airconditioning it was very hot. I was afraid of a 500 dollar expence.
I took it in and they looked at it. The charge to have it looked at was around 30 dollars. I was very happy they found the problem and only cost me that the 30 dollars.
now I have airconditioning in my truck I was very very Happy. and only cost me the 30 dollars I was paying to have it checked.
Thanks Ben white automotive

Pros: best friendly smiles

Cons: can't think of any

Posted 09/14/09

They took the time to research my problem and discovered my vehicle was still under factory warranty. Instead of fixing it themselves and charging me full price they called the dealer for me and set up an appointment. They saved me $1000 they could have made off me. They are an example of how American business should opperate. Way to go Ben White Auto. I will be forever grateful for your help. I will definitely spread the word.

Pros: Went above and beyond to help me with my repair needs.

Cons: No drawbacks what so ever!

Posted 09/05/09

I brought my car in on a Friday ~10AM that was having some gas issues. Kevin got to it on Monday and had an estimate Monday evening. After approving the work Tuesday morning, it was completed by 3 in the afternoon. All of the issues seem to be fixed and they recommended some additional repairs (brakes and tune up) for the car.

Pros: Good customer service and explanation

Cons: perhaps initial speed

Posted 09/01/09

personalized sevice, stand behind the work that is done

Posted 08/12/09

I had to replace a cooling fan for my Honda, they did the job the next day and found the most reliable parts for the cheapest price, saving me nearly $100 on their original quote. Excellent work!

Pros: Honest work with least amount of Hassel and best quality

Cons: They are popular so there might be a few days wait.

Posted 08/05/09

My experiences with Ben White Auto have always been good ones, despite the fact I needed my truck or car repaired. Ben White has never tried to cheat me by doing work that is not needed. They are a rare find in the auto business due to both their speedy work and honesty. They also guarantee their parts and service. I had a problem with a part they replaced in the past. They replaced the part with without charging me for a new one. Amazing! I never take my vechicles elsewhere.

Pros: Always honest. Excellent service.

Posted 07/27/09

These guys are great! They saved us hundreds over another shop, and their repairs are always top notch! They stand behind their work, and are always fast and friendly.

Pros: Quick, honest, and affordable

Posted 07/20/09

Walked in, dropped off my car and 2 beers later I had new front brake pads. Thanks Ben White Automotive!

Pros: Fax Sign in for Faster Service

Cons: None

Posted 06/24/09

Extremely friendly, helpful, knowledgeable, and my car was serviced perfectly in one day. I was also referred to another place for tire-balancing and they did it for free because the folks at Ben White Auto asked them to. My repairs were a quarter of what I paid the last time I had my car serviced.

Pros: Honest, Helpful, Didn't Push Unnecessary Repairs

Cons: None

Posted 06/19/09

It felt good to be remembered as a person and not only by my car being looked up on a computer. You are friendly, honest and comfortable. Thanks!

Pros: Honest, Upfront and clear about repairs and price

Posted 06/14/09

i had to have some major work done on my car. a new timing belt, etc... they were very communicative in how long it would take, explaining the charges, and didn't mind at all when i called my old mechanic back east to check on their charges!

Pros: timely and good communicatino

Posted 06/08/09

Apparently my battery ruined my alternator. So, they put in a new battery and alternator. They tried to charge me for premium brand new parts on a 12 year old car. I did some research and told them to give me some mid-grade parts instead. That saved me $200. They overcharged for the labor (about $143 for a really easy fix, could've done it myself), but I figured if they did a quality inspection along with it, I would let it slide. When I went to pick up the vehicle, it was obvious they hadn't adjusted the belt correctly. It made a high pitched screeching sound. I told them about it. After looking at it and spraying WD40 on it, they said they'd have to replace it and would give me a price "real soon". I have yet to hear back from them.

Pros: Fixed one problem

Cons: Created a new problem

Posted 05/06/09

I really like talking with Oscar. He was able to get me refurbished parts to keep the cost down. He also jokes with me about my car being a scooter or a lawn mower ;)

Pros: Fast turn over

Cons: As with any Auto shop, the cost!

Posted 05/05/09

I am no car whiz and when I had to have some engine work done I felt confident having these guys do it. They took the time to explain everything to me, gave me several options for the repair and the cost for each option. I really felt that they took the time to help me make an informed and affordable decision.

Pros: good prices, honest opinions, quick work

Cons: location - at least for me

Posted 05/04/09

The people at Ben White are willing to work with you to get the job done how you want it. They do excellent work and are honest about what needs to be done. This shop is a refreshing change from the many headaches associated with auto repair. I have been here twice, they always have a great attitude and do what they say they will do. I will always take my car here.

Pros: Good work at a reasonable price

Posted 04/17/09

About a year ago, I went into Brake Check to have a squeaking sound in my brakes fixed. What I thought was a simple "fix" at the time turned out to be 5 to 10 NEW issues with the car every 4 months or so. Earlier this month, I found they wanted to repair the same issues AGAIN (which they already supposedly fixed) for the full price (they didn't even want to live up to the life-time warranties that I had on some of the brake parts).

Unbelievable!

$1000+ and a year later ...

I finally took the car over to Ben White Automotive who fixed all of the REAL issues (most, I'm sure, were issues that Brake Check caused) with the vehicle in only HALF a day's time. Note that at this point, my car was having some rattling sounds in the under-carriage and it sounded like there was something lose that kept hitting the ground whenever I drove the vehicle.

Bottom-Line: The issue(s) were fixed and the car drives like its brand new now.I will definitely be back should anything go awry with my car again.

**On a side note, I have to say that its really pathetic that there are businesses out there like Brake Check (scam) that are charging customers twice as much as they should for parts and service (most of which are unnecessary) while doing a half-a$s job. Its very easy to get in an endless cycle of paying some of these con-artists who simply "invent" issues with your car that aren't really an issue.

Pros: Very quick turnaround time and affordable!

Cons: none

Posted 03/31/09

Very satisfied with the job well done by this auto repair center. Oscar quoted me a price to replace the CV joints on my car. He even allowed me to bring my own parts (new CV joints), Adrian Alejo replaced the CV joints, and I only paid for the labor. The total labor cost was reasonable when compared to other repair shops in the area. I was so satisfied with the work done, that a few days later I came back to have them replace the front oil seal on my other vehicle. Again, very satisfied with the work done and the price. They are good and reasonable!!

Pros: Friendly, reasonable labor prices, & job knowledge.

Cons: None!

Posted 03/26/09

All the guys at the shop were great, both Kevin and Oscar are awesome. They were accurate with my pricing, the mechanics are very knowledgeable and the work is done as quickly as possible. They take such great care of me, I trust them to treat me honestly and with a smile, they do excellent work. All backed by their 12 months or 12,000-mile warranty and with genuine NAPA Auto Parts. Thanks for taking care of my little car and helping it to be all it can be...

Pros: Very reliable and great customer service

Cons: NA

Posted 03/17/09

Ben White Automotive gives great service at a great price. They don't make you wait forever like other places who act like they have all the time in the world... The best part? I didn't get treated like a dits because I am a woman. I appreciate the respect. As a result of superior service and good prices I will send others over who are in need of car repair.

Pros: Great service

Cons: ???

Posted 03/11/09

I had a laundry list of small items that needed to be fixed on my 02 Chrysler Sebring. All of the items were fixed quickly and for a fair price. The staff is friendly and honest. My check engine light had lit up and they were able to discover that I had a malfunctioning O2 sensor. All of the repairs I have received have held up well over time. I will definitely return here if I need further repairs.

Pros: Honest, friendly, competent

Posted 03/10/09

A lot has already been said about these guys but I'll give you my quick story. Clutch is failing. Go to dealership - diagnosed as wear and tear needs to be replaced ($1800+ for clutch and rear-seal)plus $99.00 for diagnosis. Not too interested in that price so I go to a reputable mechanic I have used before. He lets me know that Scion models have to have their sub-frame removed and unfortunately he can't do it. But he does recommend BWA. I give the boys a call, get a quote(over $600 less for the same work) and set up and appointment. Monday last week I roll in (kind of literally) and drop off. He says it'll be done Tuesday afternoon.
I get a call later on Monday from the boys expecting problems, new costs or timetable revision. Well, it was a timetable revision. Car is ready now. For under the quoted price. Um, yes, please.

Car is running very well and my wallett is grateful for the extra cash in these times. I recommend them. Highly.

Pros: My experience

Cons: It was cold when I dropped it off

Posted 02/05/09

I needed some minor work done on my car, and went to Ben White Auto based on all the good reviews.
I wasn?t disappointed. I knew exactly what needed to be fixed and how much it would cost. Not Only did B.W.A quote me a great price, but not one person tried to up sale me anything or try to tell me additional things needed to be fixed. I know this sounds like a simple thing, but being a young woman, almost every car shop I have EVER been to has tried to take advantage of me thinking I know nothing about cars. I would recommend this place to my mother/ sister/ friends in a heart beat.

Posted 01/26/09

I took my Nissan Altima 98 in for a repair as it died just after I arrived in Austin (moved in from West Coast). Literally pulled into town and headed for the Hotel on Govener's Row and the car died just outside the Omni Parking lot. Had to have it towed to Ben White.
They diagnosed the problem as a distributor and had me on my way the next evening. Given that the car was old there were other repairs that could have been made but they clearly let me know that those could wait for a while. Price for the service and parts was good too (i checked around). I would definitely go back. Fact is I'm planning to take my wife's car in this evening to have them look for the source of an oil leak. I've also recommended them to my other friends in town. One had work done with them a little while back and had good things to say as well...

Pros: Very professional, cost conscious, recommend just what needs fixing, free diagnosis

Cons: busy? location - frontage road.

Posted 01/22/09

I went to Ben White after a horrendous experience with Firestone on Congress. I had gone to Firestone on at least 5 different occasions with the first time being to fix my brakes. While there, they told me that I needed a new fan belt, so I said go ahead and replace it with the best belt you have. This is when all my problems started. Driving out of the shop that day, there was now a high-pitched squeal coming from my engine and then several days later, the engine wouldn't stay running after starting it on a cold start, not until I revved it several times and warmed it up. Even then, it was very uneven. On the next 4 visits to Firestone, my truck not only didn't get fixed, it got worse!

Long story short, I took it to Ben White and within hours they let me know that the problems I was experiencing were mainly due to Firestone's shoddy work! They had put in a cheap belt that was already eroded and they had done it wrong, which was the cause of the high squeal. They had also replaced a sensor that didn't need replaced, which cost me $800, and when they put it back in, they undid a seal which caused my idle problems. It was a complete mess!

But, Ben White fixed everything, plus found some other things that were about to go bad and fixed those too and it only took a day and a half...plus they gave me a discount on the rental we had to have while the truck was in the shop! Ben White were honest and forthcoming from the get-go and explained things in such detail that I felt like I'D been trained in the field of mechanics! It was a comfort knowing that my truck was in their hands and I will recommend them to anyone and everyone as the first and only auto body shop to go to when you need vehicle repairs. Amazing work and outstanding customer service!!!

Pros: Knowledgable, Timely, Caring and Direct

Cons: Easy to miss driveway to shop

Posted 01/11/09

I have a minor transmission problem. They looked at it and said it's going to be fine for another couple of years and charged me nothing for that. They said it's too expensive to do something about it now and recommended to wait. In comparison, at Firestone they charged me $100 for the diagnostics.

Posted 12/31/08

I got my brakes done, and they were kind enough to see me very last minute. The shop was professional, well-organized, efficient and most importantly, did good work. I would definitely recommend them to anyone looking for a good mechanic. 4 stars for sure. Thanks!

Posted 12/19/08

I thought my truck needed new brake pads and was referred to Ben White Automotive. I dropped it off at 1pm and got a call back around 5pm saying that it didn't need new pads and that everything looked fine. When I went to pick up my truck I expected to pay for them taking the time to look at it but they didn't charge me anything. They could have easily just done the work and charged me but instead they sent me on my way with my keys.

Pros: honest mechanics and warm reception at the front desk

Posted 12/11/08

I took my Nissan Frontier 04 to Ben White Automotive South because of a service engine light and left it there. They called me not so long after and told me the problem was a loose gas cap. When I came back my truck was a ready and they did not charge me anything for that. I appreciate their honesty and will come back any day if I have any other problem with my vehicle.

Posted 12/09/08

It;s not too often you take a car to a repair shop to get an oil change and see about an intermittent check engine light and get a total bill for $46.12. Admittedly, Ben White Automotive wasn't able to completely fix the intermittent check engine light on this visit, but they were knowledgeable and friendly and definitely fairly priced. They even offered to take another look at the on-again, off-again check engine without charge the next day, Saturday, despite the fact they are closed on Saturdays. I feel pretty sure a lot of shops would have replaced the possibly malfunctioning thermostat and O2 sensor and billed me hundreds of dollars, possibly without addressing the real problem. The fact that they didn't do that tells me this is a good place to do business.

Pros: Got a very good feeling overall about the place

Cons: They weren't able to fix the problem on the first visit

Posted 12/09/08

I struggled with my car and tried to allow my brother to make the repairs to save on $$$. After three weeks of him not able to figure out what was wrong, I towed my Nissan into Ben White Automorive. It took a week to get my car back even though they only replaced my alternator but worth the wait. Great price. Great service.

Posted 12/04/08

I would definitely recommend this auto repair shop. The only reason I wouldn't give them 5 stars is that they upped the price from the original quote. HOWEVER, I do believe the extra work needed to be done, and they charged me a VERY reasonable price for the parts (I checked). Bottom line is that I'm going to take my car back there next time I need something done.

Pros: Honesty

Posted 11/20/08

I took out 03 Nissan Moreno in for fuel system cleaning and they identified a cracked engine mount. I had just been to the Maxwell Nissan on 183 asking them to check out a lurching upon acceleration. The dealership kept it for a day and then told me absolutely nothing was wrong, that the car checked out fine.They MISSED two engine mount cracks! but Ben White caught it right away and fixed it the same day. They even arranged a rental that worked out great. I certainly would use Ben White Auto again.

Pros: lots

Cons: easy to miss their driveway

Posted 11/20/08

I've never actually hired the guys at Ben White because they've always told me what my problems were and gave me the truth about driving with the current problems. I always go back to them first because I trust their opinions, I feel they are honest, and when I do have a problem that needs to be fixed, they will be the first ones I think of.

Pros: honest

Posted 11/18/08

They repaired my CRV very quickly and at a very fair price also installed a new o2 sensor for free because they said it could have been damaged from the installation of the steering rack-and-pinion

Pros: good honest people

Cons: none

Posted 11/17/08

I took my car in for repairs and the exact repairs were completed as previously discussed over the phone. I haven't had any problems with my car since the repairs and would recommend them to a friend. Another plus is that I payed less than half of what the dealerships quote was.

Pros: service performed, priced charged and repairs completed when stated

Posted 11/17/08