Auto service for clear answers and no pressure

“I'm new to Hamilton and chose Chestnut Avenue Auto on the basis of its online reviews. Although the work I had done was routine and pretty straightforward, I was impressed by the post-service debrief, in which I was told that my rear shocks were still okay but just starting to leak, and they would want to keep an eye on it next time I'm in for routine service (i.e. in six months). They didn't try to tell me I needed to do it now. Same on the tires - I asked them to check the wear, and they confirmed that there was enough tread left and advised against changing them just yet, even though I had been thinking about it. So I think their reputation for honesty and straight dealing is well-deserved, and I'll be happy to come back with a feeling of confidence.”

“This shop is the real deal. Everyone looks for a shop that won't trick them out of their money, and finally found one. I'm not a car guy, I ride my bicycle mostly, but I'm also not a fool, and understand the basics. Brought my car in for a few replacements and repairs, they gave me a fair price, had it done in a day, and called me before doing anything and advised me on a few things that didn't need to get done yet to save me some cash. All I want out of a shop. They're a small shop so they don't have a shuttle, so prepare to get home in your own if they need a car then whole day, but I took Bike Share home as there's a station nearby.”

“Recently moved to Hamilton and was looking for a good mechanic close to home for my 2015 Mazda 3. Location was key - I'm no longer willing to drive 50 km to the dealership to get a tune-up or the unexpected emergency repair (and it's just not ideal for my aging - yet very reliable - workhorse vehicle). Reddit led me to Chestnut Avenue Auto. It's a convenient neighbourhood shop in lower Hamilton, run by friendly, accommodating, and overall good people. I went in for a seasonal tire change and alignment, and they had my car ready in under 2 hours. Will be back for routine maintenance from now on - thank you, Matt and Bob!”

“Since 2007 I had a trusted Mechanic who happened to be my next door neighbour. However, last year he sold his business and I needed to find another place that I could trust. Enter a co-worker who recommended Chestnut Avenue Auto. They have NEVER tried to upsell me. They have NEVER lied to me in order to make me feel bad and commit to an unnecessary expense or repair. They have always been friendly and never made me feel rushed or like I was an inconvenience. I think that after a full year of service here, it is safe to say that i have found my trusted "go to" mechanic for the next 20 years!”

“I am new to the area and so glad I found this shop! I dropped my car off to have a stalling issue diagnosed. Matt ran some tests and came up with an answer, then advised me on some options. Since they didn't need to disassemble anything for diagnostics, he didn't even charge me for the visit. I decided to come back the next week and have the recommended work done, and my car has been doing great. Very fair and honest service, and everyone I spoke with at the shop was friendly and courteous. I will be a regular here going forward!”

“I called to have my 2011 Mazda 2 serviced and had the friendliest experience with Bob both over the phone and when I dropped my car off. Matt kept me informed before and after the service, clearly explaining the issues and answering all my questions. He was super informative and honest, which I truly appreciated. I will definitely be coming back. Thanks to the entire team at Chestnut for the great service!”

“Nothing but great things to say about these guys. Brought my car in to fix my car horn (first time client), and at no point was I up-sold. They called me within a couple hours to explain the issue and to ask permission before doing any work. Kept it simple and fixed the problem perfectly (and fairly priced). Very happy as a scam-conscious young person!”

“Service was timely, easy to arrange, complete satisfaction. I had purchased 4 brand new winter tires they needed to put on. they gave my car an overall visual with no obvious issues reported. They even let me know l could apply for a rebate. How great is that.”

“I did a safety inspection here and the process was very quick and smooth. The staff were professional, and my car passed without any issues. Overall, a great experience—highly recommend!”

“Great advice, great staff. Overall a great experience. I plan on bringing my car to them from now on. Price is good too. Sorry to the other shops but this one is a keeper.”

“I'm new to Hamilton and chose Chestnut Avenue Auto on the basis of its online reviews. Although the work I had done was routine and pretty straightforward, I was impressed by the post-service debrief, in which I was told that my rear shocks were still okay but just starting to leak, and they would want to keep an eye on it next time I'm in for routine service (i.e. in six months). They didn't try to tell me I needed to do it now. Same on the tires - I asked them to check the wear, and they confirmed that there was enough tread left and advised against changing them just yet, even though I had been thinking about it. So I think their reputation for honesty and straight dealing is well-deserved, and I'll be happy to come back with a feeling of confidence.”

“This shop is the real deal. Everyone looks for a shop that won't trick them out of their money, and finally found one. I'm not a car guy, I ride my bicycle mostly, but I'm also not a fool, and understand the basics. Brought my car in for a few replacements and repairs, they gave me a fair price, had it done in a day, and called me before doing anything and advised me on a few things that didn't need to get done yet to save me some cash. All I want out of a shop. They're a small shop so they don't have a shuttle, so prepare to get home in your own if they need a car then whole day, but I took Bike Share home as there's a station nearby.”