Engine & transmission

Big jobs are where you most need a shop that tells you the truth, including when the right answer is not to do the repair.

Before any major engine or transmission work we give you a written diagnosis, a firm quote and an honest opinion on whether the car is worth it. Sometimes a $3,000 repair on a car worth $4,000 makes sense because the rest of the car is sound. Sometimes it does not, and we will say so.

Common engine work includes timing belts and water pumps (an interval item on many Hondas, Toyotas, Subarus and Hyundais), timing chains and guides, valve cover and oil pan gaskets, head gaskets, and engine mounts. We also replace complete engines when that is the economical choice, using remanufactured or low-mileage units with their own warranty.

For transmissions we start with a fluid inspection and a scan for codes. Many “transmission problems” are a solenoid, a sensor or a software update. For rebuilds and replacements we work with a transmission specialist we have used for more than a decade and stand behind the work ourselves.

Loaner cars are available for any job that will keep your car more than a day.