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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to make an appointment for service/repairs? 

If you prefer same day turnaround for basic servicing, or something straight forward like brakes, it's highly recommended to make an appointment in advance.  IF you experience a breakdown or other type of emergency, we will never say no, and we’ll do our best to manage expectations of time and turnaround. We are a busy little shop so your patience is super helpful and very much appreciated!

 

Can I wait for my service/repair? 

As much as we enjoy spending time with our customers, unfortunately our shop is not equipped for “while you wait service”. Please plan on dropping off your vehicle as early as possible. The length of the car's stay will depend on the type of service/repair. 

Can I bring my own parts? 

No, we only install parts that we supply. We only use OEM parts provided by local parts suppliers that always include at least 12 months of warranty coverage.

 

My check engine light is on and the auto parts store gave me a fault code. Can I get a quote to repair it?

Reading a fault code, and Comprehensive Troubleshooting/Diagnosis are two completely different things. A fault code has to be researched and processed, then components must be tested to find the failure, and ensure we provide the correct repair recommendation. We cannot provide repair recommendations based on fault codes alone.

 

Is the Troubleshooting/Diagnosis fee included in the repair?

Typically no, the ability to efficiently diagnose is the result of years of training and experience, not just reading a trouble code. Comprehensive troubleshooting/diagnosis requires time to research, test/ process the fault codes, and confirm what the problem is and what the repair recommendation will be. It is separate time spent, then the time involved making the actual repair. Most diagnosis starts with an hour's worth of time, however, more exotic situation(s) can take longer. Often times when a vehicle has multiple fault codes they are potentially related to different issues that may result in multiple repair recommendations. 

The Dealer/ Other shop quoted me a repair, can you do the repair instead? 

Yes, but we always prefer to independently confirm things before we proceed with any repair. We cannot guarantee that the other shop's recommendation will fix the issue the car has, so if you choose to not have us verify the problem… you must be prepared to pay for additional troubleshooting if the repair the other shop recommended does not fix the car. 

 

Can I just replace the brake pads and not the rotors? 

We always recommend replacing both the rotors and pads when replacing the front or rear brakes. We cannot warranty against premature/irregular pad wear, pedal pulsation, steering wheel shimmy upon brake apply, squeaking/noise etc.  

CALL US

EMAIL US

BUSINESS HOURS

Mon - Thur: 8 AM - 4 PM, Fri 8 AM - 3:30 PM

VISIT US

Santa Monica Autoworks

1231 Pico Blvd

Santa Monica, CA 90405

Phone: 310-452-8755

Email: smautoworks1231@gmail.com

OUR SERVICES

- Check Engine/Malfunction Indicator
  light Troubleshooting

- Engine Oil and Brake Checks & Changes

- Factory Scheduled Maintenance 

- Electrical Troubleshooting

- Transmission Service

- Engine Repair

- Battery Testing & Replacement

- Cooling System Repairs

- A/C Service

TRUST US

Our role in the care and maintenance of your vehicle is something we take seriously, and you should too. High standards are reflected in our repair work just as much as the way we operate. We’ve made it our business to build trust and reputation through candor, informed decision making, and the understanding that not every potential customer is the right customer for us. We’ve come to recognize that our longest standing customers think of us as a relationship, not a transaction.

© 2023 Do Less

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