Does anyone have a recommendation for a good independent auto shop in the Philly area?
My uncle who knows nothing about cars needs to get a tranny put into his Explorer and Aamco is trying to convince him he needs to spend $2700 on a rebuilt one. The truck isn't worth that and I just need to find a shop that will install a junkyard tranny for him. Appreciate any recommendations.
-J
Ian F
Dork
8/26/10 11:18 a.m.
What area of Philly?
If in the Northeast section, I'd recommend Lion Collision in Warminster off Rt 611 (small body & paint shop, but will also do general repairs).
tb
Reader
8/26/10 11:28 a.m.
If he is in the city i highly recommend auto time in kensington on emerald st. Honest family shop with good access to the el.
Ian F
Dork
8/26/10 12:06 p.m.
Hmm... unfortunately, not that close to Warminster or Kensington... Although a number of Philly area MINI owners drive farther to have Lion work on their cars (owner's son and main wrench is a MINI owner).
He could try Weather's Motors in Lima. That's not too far from him.
I can recommend Scott Carter in Downingtown if he wants to venture into Chester County.
Sonic
Dork
8/26/10 12:27 p.m.
Brian's automotive in Bensalem, uncle of a friend, 1654 hulmeville Ed. Talk to Brian or doug.
Thank you for the info. I will pass all of these recommendations on to him.
Ian F
Dork
8/26/10 12:42 p.m.
Sonic wrote:
Brian's automotive in Bensalem, uncle of a friend, 1654 hulmeville Ed. Talk to Brian or doug.
They're right down the street from me. Coincidentally, their shop is the old location of my long-time shop where I get my cars inspected. I used to deliver parts to that location.
Unforunately, I'm pretty much on the opposite side of Philly from Media - the long way. Although if he's close to I-95 or I-476, actual drive-time may not be too bad.
A C Automatic Transmissions
212 Reetz Avenue
Hulmeville, PA 19047
(215) 702-9488
This is where I've gotten all my work done at when I need it done right and don't trust myself to do it. They aren't cheap or the quickest, and usually have a wait to get in. But they are trustworthy and know what they're doing.
Again, not close to where he's located though.
CSE (Chassis Suspension Engines) in Oreland is kind of a drive, but worth it. I forget their phone number, but the owner is a huge gearhead and an autocrosser and can tell you just about anything about any car, especially if it's a VW. Not basement-dirt cheap, but definitely solid work and trustworthy.
Some people like Pat's, some like Geno's. I prefer Jim's.
Oh...~car~ shops?
My Uncle's shop in Hulmeville is pretty good, Prestons Garage. If he doesn't do it there's a tranny guy that he rents his old shop out to right down the street.
chknhwk wrote:
My Uncle's shop in Hulmeville is pretty good, Prestons Garage. If he doesn't do it there's a tranny guy that he rents his old shop out to right down the street.
I took one of my cars to prestons garage. Never again. problems galore....