The Best Auto Repair Shops in Ottawa
Getting a garage and a mechanic to inspect and repair your car isn’t easy. As much as we wish they don’t exist, there will always be shops that will keep you guessing and charge you more than necessary.
But don’t worry, the community still has companies operating on honesty and integrity. Proof of the matter is that we managed to select the best auto repair shops in Ottawa that you can check out.
Aside from the list, we will also run you through the standard costs of this service. Furthermore, we will provide tips on how to assess your mechanics and what questions you should ask them.
If equipped with such knowledge, you will be more confident to bring your car to a garage without worrying about being ripped off.
How much do services by auto repair shops cost in Ottawa?
Auto repair shops slightly differ in their charges per hour. The pricing will also depend on your vehicle’s make, model, and age.
To give you an idea of the cost of auto repair shops in Ottawa, here are some basic garage services and their estimated pricing range:
To get the most bang for your buck, it will help to request quotes from various auto repair shops and compare them with one another. You can start by reading about our picks first.
1. AMS Auto Center
| Criteria | Ratings |
| Range of services | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
| Cost | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Expertise | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Knowledge | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Turnaround | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Customer service | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
| Response time | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Friendliness and helpfulness | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
It can be nerve-racking to entrust your precious vehicle to a mechanic you’ve just met. No worries, though, as we can vouch for AMS Auto Center’s credibility.
The shop has enjoyed a good reputation in the city for over 20 years now. Good news if you just heard about them, as they show no signs of stopping.
AMS Auto Center offers the usual repair services. But what makes them stand out is their commitment to providing friendly and empathetic customer service.
Through their diagnostics services, they will walk you through the issues that plague your car. Moreover, they will inform you of their recommended fixes and all the steps they will make when they fix it.
If you have little to no knowledge about cars, suffice to say that you will come out of the garage enlightened.
We appreciate the shop’s approach, as it helps reassure the client. It’s like consulting a friend about a problem and getting considerate, sound advice.
And that’s not even the best part. Aside from being customer-friendly, AMS Auto Center’s pricing is well within Ottawa’s standard repair costs.
The shop’s repair execution is also top-notch. Though, we already expected that given the owners’ and mechanics’ years of experience.
However, unless it’s an emergency, booking their services might be difficult at times. The shop is busiest in the afternoons, so we recommend contacting them in the morning or setting an appointment early.
If you have to wait a bit, know that the shop will make up for it by satisfying you with their impeccable service.
Pros
- Will accommodate emergencies as best as they can
- Reasonable service costs
- Highly skilled and helpful mechanics
- Proven high-quality service with their long list of repeat customers
- Also sells auto parts
- Buys used cars
Cons
- May be hard to book due to popularity
- Closed on weekends
Customer Reviews
Welcomes every car owner with open arms
“I can’t express how wonderful my experience was today at AMS. It was recommended to me by another mechanic. They have a reputation for being honest and reasonable, and it’s absolutely true. Being a woman, I find garages can be intimidating but I didn’t have that today. When I asked questions, they took the time to explain everything to me. Everyone there is nice and friendly! I look forward to taking some of their car basic workshops in the future!” —Lulu, Google Reviews
Take it from the regulars
“Amazing auto shop. Been going for years. They are the best.” —Tamara VB, Google Reviews
2. SMRO Auto Repair and Service
| Criteria | Ratings |
| Range of services | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Cost | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Expertise | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Knowledge | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Turnaround | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Customer service | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
| Response time | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Friendliness and helpfulness | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Far northeast of Riverside Drive is the SMRO auto repair shop, a great option for car owners in and near downtown Ottawa. Like our other picks, this shop garnered rave reviews for its customer service.
SMRO has highly skilled, licensed mechanics whose accumulated experience span 50 years. Suffice it to say that they know what they’re doing.
Moreover, we love that this shop gives its customers a one-year warranty for their products and repair works. That’s saying a lot about their confidence and dedication to providing the best service.
The shop is also equipped with the latest technology to keep up with the times. If you own a newer unit, rest assured that it’ll be in safe hands.
Though, you must book an appointment before experiencing the stellar customer service yourself. Don’t worry, the shop will try their best to fix vehicles on the same day.
Be at ease also as the shop charges reasonable prices for its service. It’s good compensation for being required to book them ahead of time.
Moreover, you can set an appointment through their website page, giving you extra convenience.
Pros
- Offers a one-year service warranty
- Will try to price match other quotes
- Sells brake components
- Easy-to-use booking system
Cons
- Busiest in the morning
- Closed on weekends
Customer Reviews
Price just right
“I just had my exhaust fixed here after getting a quote from another mechanic. Let’s just say I found out what the other mechanic was trying to do after speaking with Robin. Was about 500$ cheaper and the service was just exceptional. Stephanie is very sweet at the front desk as well. My truck sounds even better than it did before I had the exhaust issues! Beyond happy with my experience here. Thanks so much.” —Russ, Google Reviews
Won’t leave customers guessing
“I LOVE this mechanic shop. They are so honest and they provide very friendly service. They explain car problems with patience and they don’t fix what isn’t broken. Their invoicing is clear and they give the customer a sense of what to expect and when a repair is essential now or in the near future. I also really like that appointments can be booked online. Overall, a fantastic mechanic shop with knowledgeable, professional, and positive service!” —Nicole Bedford, Google Reviews
3. Savasta Automotive Repair Inc
| Criteria | Ratings |
| Range of services | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Cost | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Expertise | ★★★★★ (4.5/5) |
| Knowledge | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Turnaround | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Customer service | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
| Response time | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Friendliness and helpfulness | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Savasta’s Gladstone center is yet another proof that we give heavy importance on the longevity of an auto repair shop. After all, this center has been servicing the community since 1981.
You can regard this service center as a one-stop shop for its wide range of services. Aside from the essential repairs, you can also entrust to them your tires for storage during the winter season.
We love that the shop is partnered with other providers to broaden its services. This is helpful if, say, you need to improve your vehicle’s body or keep its emissions in check.
Another plus is their partner towing service. You can rest assured that your vehicle is in safe hands, as the towing company is a member of the Canadian Auto Association.
Its proximity to downtown Ottawa also makes this shop a practical choice. If you’re around the area, you won’t have a hard time getting your car fixed.
We must say that we are impressed with Savasta’s efficiency. Despite its accessibility which likely draws many car owners, it has maintained its good reputation in the city.
We just wish that they have an online booking system aside from the usual phone call and email appointments. Customers love having an alternative, especially when it involves contacting the service provider.
All in all, Savasta’s garage is a repair center that won’t let car owners down. And its location makes it a very convenient option.
Pros
- Complete list of repair services
- Wider scope of works, thanks to partner providers
- Established, proven reputation in Ottawa
- Website provides helpful links for vehicle and driving information in Ottawa
Cons
- Slightly shorter operating hours
- Website design could use a revamp
Customer Reviews
New customers are bound to come back
“Moving to Ottawa one of my biggest fears was finding a new mechanic I could trust. On a whim, I brought my car into Savasta for a routine oil and tire change. They were so friendly and the work was done so quickly! Later that week, I got my brakes done and I was again impressed with the professionalism and care they took in handling me and my vehicle. I am now confident in bringing my car in for future services. Big thanks to the whole team!” —Joshua R., AutoDir
Convenient location and affordable prices
“What can I say?!! The best of the best!
I was so desperate because I couldn’t drive my sports car with the snow and the terrible roads but had to go to work. I just went to the closest mechanic to my place.
I didn’t have any appointments and even if they were extremely busy, they were so kind to switch my tires to winter ones so fast 😊.
The price was also so cheap compares to other mechanics.
I am so glad to have found this place and will go back since it’s very close to where I live” —Ambra Tescione, Google Reviews
4. Roy Rump & Sons Tire & Auto Center
| Criteria | Ratings |
| Range of services | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Cost | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| Expertise | ★★★★☆ (4.75/5) |
| Knowledge | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Turnaround | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
| Customer service | ★★★★☆ (4.75/5) |
| Response time | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Friendliness and helpfulness | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
The unique and lasting appeal of family-owned companies is alive and well with Roy Rump & Sons. More so since its founder, Roy D. Rump, has been dealing with vehicles since the 1950s.
Its founder’s skills and work ethics have been passed down to his children, providing a rich and colorful backdrop for this shop’s history. Consequently, its history cements its reputation as a reliable repair center.
The broad range of services performed by expert mechanics is good news. But what we love more is how the shop uses the latest technology to diagnose our car’s problems.
Staff will perform computer diagnostics, complete with tools that can check both old and new makes and models. Moreover, they will send the findings to your phone or email for extra convenience.
We love that the findings are detailed because they will help customers better understand their car’s condition. The images attached with the report and recommended actions are also a big help.
And as if the high-quality service is not enough, the shop does more with their two-year warranty.
Aside from the repairs, the shop’s experts can help you pick your replacement tires. They also sell pre-owned vehicles, which can be a lifesaver if you’re on a budget but need to buy an auto.
There might be rare cases of miscommunication between the customer and the front desk, which happens because of the bulk of requests. But rest assured that the shop will try their best to make up for shortcomings.
Pros
- Equipped with state-of-the-art tools for diagnostics and repair
- Fast and efficient booking system
- BBB-accredited
- Friendly and professional staff
Cons
- Might cost you a bit more if you need to replace parts
- Can be difficult to book at times
Customer Reviews
Takes on all makes and models, including vintage
“I have a vintage car in need of a wheel alignment, which many other shops are unwilling to work on. Roy’s team did it enthusiastically. They were diligent and thorough, and I am extremely satisfied with the results. I would have no hesitation in recommending them to other classic and vintage car owners.” —Michael Solonyko, Google Reviews
Five-star customer service
“I trust these folks completely. The work is to the highest standard, they are warm and conscientious, and they try to save me money when possible. Grateful to have such a great team on my side.” —Rachel H., Google Reviews
5. Sammy’s Auto Repair Center
| Criteria | Ratings |
| Range of services | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
| Cost | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Expertise | ★★★★☆ (4.75/5) |
| Knowledge | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
| Turnaround | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Customer service | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Response time | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Friendliness and helpfulness | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
If you’re looking for a local business in your area, Sammy’s repair center is one of those hidden gems you might want to try.
The repair shop is about half the age of our other picks, yet it has established a brand of honesty and integrity comparable to older companies. We attribute this feat to the garage’s homey feel and the staff’s warmth and hospitality.
The shop does the basic vehicle repairs efficiently. That said, you will need to look for an alternative if you have issues with newer cars.
The good thing is that you can call them to confirm if they do a particular job. Afterward, you can book an appointment via phone or email.
You can also get a free quote using the shop’s online form.
We love that the center operates even on Saturdays. Moreover, they accept emergency repairs and won’t shy away from servicing you if the work is within their scope.
The pricing is fair, too, which is one of the reasons customers keep coming back.
Consider calling the shop first before bringing your car, especially if the issue seems advanced. The center will tell you if they can or can’t do it, saving you time and resources.
Pros
- Honest and accommodating mechanics
- Accepts emergency repairs
- Located near a mall
- Open on Saturdays
Cons
- A bit far from the highway
- Smaller garage size
Customer Reviews
A stand out among the locals
“I’ve been to many local garages and so far this one has been the most reliable and at the same time provides a quick and good quality service. Also, the owner Ali is also an honest mechanic so I have no worries about being charged unfairly (as I have been in the past at other mechanics), in here the treatment is the same for all. This has become my #1 garage to go to!” —Abdallah Douha, Google Reviews
Gives customers peace of mind
“An honest and accessible mechanic. I had a pretty big job done here and the mechanic, Amir, was clear in explaining what needed to be done in advance as well as the associated costs, including if the work took longer than anticipated. There were no surprises and he took care in making sure I was satisfied. I was easily able to reach him and he even texted me with updates. Very good experience.” —Tarik B, Google Reviews
FAQs about Auto Repair Shops in Ottawa
The best auto repair shops in Ottawa will be able to give you the best of both worlds: top-quality service and reasonable pricing. We hope that our list will guide you to make sound decisions for your cars moving forward.
If you only need your car exterior fixed, we have a more specific selection. Check out the top auto body shops in Ottawa, so you’ll have help removing your auto’s bumps and scratches.