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German Motors of Salem Inc
1290 12th St SE, Salem, OR 97302, United States
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German Motors of Salem Inc
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Cr
Review №1

German Auto Repair is the best German repair company that Ive used in the Valley. Their knowledge and experience allows them to quickly troubleshoot and repair. I saved both time and costs by having this team work on my car. Customer service is like a German Car, Professional and Detailed. Ive used this team to replace a rear crankshaft seal, flywheel, vacuum pump, and windshield washer pump on a Audi TT that Im restoring. I would highly recommend this company to anyone that needs inspections, repairs, and general maintenance. Its refreshing to do business with people that have integrity and stand behind their work.

Ga
Review №2

These guys arent the cheapest but I trust them. Which is why I keep going back.I hate paying someone else to work on my cars but if I was going to pay someone its these guys. Theyre fast, considerate, suggest preventative maintenance that will save you money in the long run.I wont take my TDI anywhere else.Ive been happy with my DSG service, oil changes, alternator replacement. The previous owner went with the cheapest alternator and it went bad within a year. These guys suggested a pricier option for the alternator but its been working great for more than a year now.

Ja
Review №3

The best automotive experience I have had in salem! Mike the owner is hospitable, professional and an expert when it comes to European motors. I will be back!

Ph
Review №4

The owner/operator is dedicated to delivering the highest quality VW/Audi service. He is very straightforward in his delivery of information: no extra stuff :-)

Ch
Review №5

Great service, they will squeeze you in on the days you need them for a last minute fix or oil change when they can, prices are fair. I take my Audi here exclusively and I will never go anywhere else. I highly recommend for your German import cars, DONT take it to your average shop. These cars can be finicky at tines, especially Audis, so do you and your vehicle a favor and take it to the people that specialize in them.Thanks German Motors, you guys are awesome!

Ch
Review №6

Mike and Scott are true German car experts. We had them complete a scheduled maintenance on our VW Atlas and it was done on time and much less than the dealership. They also did a scheduled maintenance and a full brake job our our Audi with the same efficiency.

Za
Review №7

These guys are the best! They take care of you and don’t BS you. They use the best quality parts and fluids and really know how to take care of your German vehicles! If you have a German car and you aren’t getting it serviced here, you are doing yourself and your vehicle a disservice. Go see them!

Jo
Review №8

Great shop! Nice and clean place! Customer service was amazing! Mike makes sure to update you on anything that goes on and keeps you in the loop!Really good price too!

ma
Review №9

Share reviewEmbed reviewWrite an updateEdit review11/12/2020I highly recommend German Motors, 5 stars. Id give more if there was an option. Mike and the guys are the best in the business. Ive always been treated great, and Id rather deal with a business owner that is to the point and honest. German Motors is the only place I would ever consider taking my car. They are professional and do a quality job every time without overcharging.

Ru
Review №10

Id highly recommend this place. My car wasnt even starting when i brought it there and they had it fixed and running in 24 hours. They were also very communicative about what they could do and fix before they charged me any money, and the cost they showed was alot lower than what i assumed they would be. Thanks Mike for doing such an awesome job!

Is
Review №11

Mike was incredibly nice, everything was done on time, the prices were extremely fair, and he kept me informed consistently about what was going on with my car for two days. They went above and beyond to make sure my car was in the ideal shape, even gave me suggestions on what he could do next to make the car last longer. Would highly recommend for ANY German vehicle owner, in Salem or miles outside of the city.

Ch
Review №12

I have a 2002 VW Bug that broke down a couple of months ago. I had it towed to German Motors of Salem to have it fixed. Mike went over the car and fixed a sensor plug and a coolant flange sensor plug that was leaking. I took it in yesterday for an oil change and possible belt replacement....I had anticipated paying $600+ but Mike said the belts were fine. He did the oil/filter change and noticed air pump mounts needed replacement so replaced them. My bill was under $300! What I appreciate the most, besides the timely work and professional approach, is the HONESTY and CUSTOMER SERVICE! Those two things are very hard to find these days! My husband of 48 years died just 4 months ago and I am having to handle all those things that he used to do...like getting cars fixed...It feels so good to deal with someone who is not taking advantage of what I dont know. Thank you German Motors and especially Mike for being that guy with honesty and integrity.

Al
Review №13

8-18-2020. Excellent customer service at a fair price. That combined with an obviously high level of expertise makes German Motors a place that I highly recommend without any hesitation!I had to reschedule my original appointment and Mike took care of it with a no problem additude.Weve owned our x3 for a number of years but it was with our daughter out of town. Now that we bought her a new car we were wondering if we should keep the old (2007) x3. German Motors helped us decide. Well likely keep it many years now that we know there is not only an alternative to the dealership but a superior alternative to the dealership.Update; 12-11-20 yet another visit that was perfect! Quick and professional service!Dont go anywhere else! German Motors is the best at what they do. I wish I could find the same service for my American cars.

Je
Review №14

If you want your German motor running right, this is the place for you. If youre looking to just sneak by and get something on the road without actually caring about the longevity and reliability.....do not stop here.There is pride in workmanship here. We wont take our Vanagon anywhere else.

Al
Review №15

A place you can trust. Great mechanic, very knowledgeable and explains things so i understand. In these uncertain times - Covid 19 times are tough for many people and having a good running auto can not be more important. German Motors is the best possible choice!

Er
Review №16

This shop is family owned and operated I have had work performed there over the years. They are very knowledgeable and experienced, they also use the appropriate and quality parts for the repair.

Ka
Review №17

Finally, I found a trustworthy place for my club. I was told by another shop that my belts needed replaced, took it to German motors to try them out. The owner went over my whole car and told me nothing needed replacing. Honest and timely. I found a home for my Jetta.

Ni
Review №18

Brought in my 06 a4 to get the fuel pump replaced they did a fantastic job doing exactly what I asked with out all the upsale bs. Straight forward timely and easy to deal with. Aaron does phenomenal work and knows his stuff. Highly recommend 👌

J
Review №19

Great experience today. Will definitely be going back.

Aa
Review №20

Ive taken several cars to German Motors over the last 15-ish years. Ive always received great service, quality work, and excellent prices.Mike and his team have first rate knowledge across the gamut of German makes and models from air cooled flat 4s to modern direct injected turbos.Every time Ive brought my car in for service, theyve been extremely transparent and took pains to walk me through everything and provide a thorough estimate before doing any work.

Ha
Review №21

Truly a 5 star experience. The team at German Motors of Salem are outstanding, professional and extremely knowledgeable.I was visiting Salem when my BMW decided to overheat. After doing a quick google search to find an expert in German engineering, I came across German Motors of Salem.After a quick phone conversation, I took my car in for evaluation, they diagnosed the issue, ordered parts, replaced the water pump and thermostat all within 24 hours.Service - 5 starsPricing - 5 starsKnowledge - 5 stars.So bottom line, if you are in the surrounding area of Salem and need a team that will take care of your German Engineering, German Motors cars should be your first call.Thank you Mike and Aaron for being so amazing.Appreciate you both!Harry

Cu
Review №22

I am a long time customer of German Motors located in Salem, OR. Even though I don’t have a German made car, the owner Mike accommodates to the servicing of my Mini. It saves me time and a trip to Portland. He is very thorough; I went in for an oil change and within that process noticed through his inspection the brake pads and rotors needed replaced. He also noticed the ignition wouldn’t stay on for an extended time so replaced the original battery. He also explains the work that was done after completion. I was very appreciative of getting his advice and highly recommend him.

Ja
Review №23

I brought my 2013 Passat in for a water pump replacement. Knowing that the timing belt and parts would be accessible, and would soon need time-based replacement, I researched parts and cost. When I called Mike for an estimate, he was honest with a quote on the cost of parts and labor. He also conveyed his estimate of how long the work would take, and how long to get parts.I decided to bring my vehicle to his shop based on other reviews, and his accurate estimate of the cost of parts. The car was repaired and ready for pickup exactly as he advised. The final cost was precisely in line with the initial estimate they gave me.Additionally, his shop ran diagnostics and found a failed cooling fan. He did not charge me extra for the diagnostic, and was able to quickly order the parts and have the repair done in less than a day.I had an exceptional experience with this business. Everyone was honest, professional, and I enjoyed my friendly conversations with Mike. I will definitely bring my vehicle back here for any future needs, and I highly recommend this business to others.

Ka
Review №24

I have been here twice now for major repairs on my Volkswagen Beetle. Mike is always honest and to the point. Their prices are better than the dealerships and when you have your car serviced here, you’re supporting local businesses. Win-Win.

Da
Review №25

Good guys

Sh
Review №26

They werent able to help me with my vehicle but was overly hopeful pointing me in the right direction definitely a place that went out of their way.

Su
Review №27

German motors is the best! Have been taking my vehicles to them for years! (VW & BMW)

Ha
Review №28

Phenomenal customer service and value! I was being completely swindled by Salem Volkswagen and had several unpleasant experiences with their service technicians. Aaron and Mike at German Motors took awesome care of us and our 2018 VW Tiguan for a fraction of the cost. We will be returning for all future services.

Mi
Review №29

Had my 97 Z3 in for timing belt, tensioner, new pulleys. They did a fast affordable job. Couldnt be happier and Mike is a great person to work with. Would highly recommend!.

Da
Review №30

Bought my first VW Golf from a buddy’s kid which had a few issues and I didn’t feel that I was treated very well when I went to the local dealership here in Salem Oregon. When the Go Goo Golf developed a coolant leak I thought I should give German Motors a try. They called me with a detailed estimate within an hour.While my car has way more problems than I wanted to hear about, Mike was very professional and he prioritize the repairs to meet my budget. When I save up some money I will continue to use German Motors for as long as I own my Golf! Thanks Mike and your crew for the quick professional repairs coming in just under budget!!!

El
Review №31

Very helpful and knowledgeable. Even though he wasnt making any money off me, he provided a very accurate diagnosis in minutes and showed me exactly what the problem was. Thank you so much excellent shop

Te
Review №32

Very informative about our car and charged $100 less then the VW dealer

Ra
Review №33

Great, professional service for my vehicle. As a lady, I find that many auto service places will BS me, lie to me, disrespect my intelligence, or blow me off entirely. Not German motors! They serviced my vehicle, were realized with me about what it did and didnt need and didnt go over what theyd quoted me. Ill be back!

Jo
Review №34

They communicate clearly and are the best in the area for any vw or audi needs.

Pe
Review №35

Best place in town for all Germany motor vehicles.

Br
Review №36

Great service without all the dealership BS and cost.

Aa
Review №37

20+ years of experience with German Motors. Impeccable service, quality work, and peace of mind with every service. Thanks to Mike and his team, I have a trusted mechanic I can count on!

Di
Review №38

I brought my estimate from the VW dealership for 3 repairs at 3000.00 and Mike was such an honest and fair guy, he saved me more than half on 2 of the repairs and had me out in 1 day. I will gladly have him do the 3rd repair when its time. In fact, hell be my mechanic from now on, hands down. Its really nice to find a mechanic you know isnt just trying to milk you for money.

Jo
Review №39

Great service great people

He
Review №40

Mike and his staff are very professional and experts at what they do. I appreciate their professionalism and ability to fix anything on my VW large or small. Their estimates are always exactly on the mark. I have been taking my car (VW GTI) for many years and would recommend them to anyone looking for a place to have their car worked on. Thank you for all the help and keeping my car in excellent condition.

As
Review №41

I needed to replace Spark Plugs for my 2007 BMW 328i. I chose this place because they specialize in German Cars and their initial quote was lot better than the shops in Portland (where I live). Also they had good reviews. I was a little apprehensive after I called the second time to make an appointment, because the person at the other end seemed a little grouchy. But I made the trip anyway.When I got there I asked for the price they quoted me. I wanted to make sure that quote I got was what I would be charged. I knew the ballpark figure ($250 to $260) specifically for NGK spark plugs, but did not remember the exact price. The person at the counter gave me attitude telling me rudely that it was whatever I was initially quoted on the phone. When I said I dont remember, he told me condescendingly that Thats why we write things down. Finally when he did gave me the price, it was $325! I told him it was way off from the original quote. He called someone (most likely Mike who is the owner) and then updated the price to $270. Also, when just to be clear I mentioned (must have offended his highness by repeating myself twice) that I wanted NGK (rather than Bosch that they usually put), the guy shoved an NGK pack in my direction and rudely retorted: Satisfied?. The irony is that he felt inconvenienced as if he was doing me a favor, like telling me that I should have written down the quote when they themselves gave me 3 different quotes. Maybe they should write down their first quote... So that there is no confusion later..Since I was already there, I left him the key and went for a walk.When I went back, the owner (Mike) was at the counter He was lot better in his interactions than the rude person that I had encountered earlier. Still the first impressions left a bad taste.My opinion: Unless you do not have any problems with unprofessional customer service and rude snobby attitude, avoid this place!!!

Do
Review №42

I have been coming to German motors for years. Mike and his staff are professional and the most honest car repair I have ever known.... One day I popped in because my door wasnt closing right... He came right out fixed in a jiff... and did not even charge me... You can trust him to tell you the truth. If you want honest truthful direct mechanics this is the place to come. Their knowledge and technical skill surpass any I have encountered. They go to as my length to please their customers. German Motors is 10 star quality!!!

Mi
Review №43

Excellent service and expertise. Mike and staff provide the best care for your car at a reasonable price. I will be back when my BMW needs further servicing.

Pe
Review №44

Nobody gives better VW service than German Motors. Very fair prices. And trustworthy mechanics. Ive been going there 20 years. They care.

Su
Review №45

This is the best Volkswagen Shop in Salem and Mike is always very honest

Er
Review №46

Excellent service.Thank you German motors. I appreciate you taking great care of my BMW. Thanks for going the extra mile.Sincerely E Pineda

Sh
Review №47

These guys are awesome! 10/10 I will use them again

Za
Review №48

I appreciate the explanation and repairs on our vehicle.

Cy
Review №49

I have been going to Mike at German Motors since 2002 for work on my 1998 VW Bug. I moved to Portland for seven years, and unfortunately went to a repair shop that did NOT specialize in German cars. BIG MISTAKE. I am now gladly driving to Salem to have reliable work done at a reasonable price once again. This shop is worth the drive.

Ja
Review №50

I started taking my new BMW Z-3 to German Motors over fifteen years ago. I have been treated superbly over the years. There is always a pleasant voice on the other end of the phone and a smiling face to greet me when I arrive. No matter what the reason I am there, they ALWAYS do a thorough overall check of my car. I may receive a call from Ralph or whoever is handling my car, and get some options as to costs and timeframe for repair. They are far and away the most thorough and best people I have ever worked with.

Ka
Review №51

I bought a 2001 Jetta last summer. I took it in today to find out what was wrong and she had about 3,000 dollars worth of work that needed to be done, like yesterday. Mike was straight up and didn’t try to talk me out of money. He even took away the fee to look at my car, because he wanted to help with my wound 😅 . It was a horrible day but I’m glad to know that I did not get ripped off again today. Thank you so much German motors

Ad
Review №52

Great customer service. Diagnosed several small issues that needed to be addressed and put them into less techy terms for me to understand. Highly recommended.

Na
Review №53

Cordial and they fix your car. They seem like they are just in a hurry to get you in and out as fast as possible. They have fixed my car twice, but the lack of cordiality really puts a damper on things.

Mi
Review №54

I have been taking my VWs to German Motors for many years now. I trust Mike and his staff with my vehicles. They have always gone out of their way to help me. Mike always explains what is going on with my vehicle, what options I have and the cost up front. He is constantly trying to find ways to consolidate work in order to save me the cost of additional labor.Not only are needed repairs explained to me, Mike has taught me about the need for routine maintenance and high quality parts for my car. These mechanics are not not condescending which is important to me as a female customer. They are straight forward and to the point.I have always been able to just stop by and ask any questions and get help with little things like replacing a bulb or topping off my oil. These guys really care about their customers! I highly recommend German Motors.

po
Review №55

I have had nothing but amazing service from this shop. As a young female student who lives far away from home, it is important for me to have a mechanic I trust :) They are kind and well mannered. They dont attempt to cheat me and always make sure they can fix my car in the most cost effective way. When I dont understand what is wrong they explain everything to me even to the extent of pulling out the parts and explaining the functions and why it no longer works. 10 out of 5, I will always recommend.

Ja
Review №56

Mike is a knowledgable and friendly mechanic. We were driving through Salem and noticed a rattling coming from our engine. He took a look and determined it was a loose bolt on the alternator bracket. He pulled it into the garage to take the alternator off and make sure nothing was stripped, 10 minutes later were back on the road. Thanks, Mike!!

J
Review №57

Fair price, honest service, = loyal customer.

Vi
Review №58

Prior to purchasing a new vehicle there are many things most of us consider. Before buying my new wheels this week, I thought long and hard about buying a car that Mike and the team at German Motors would not be taking care of. I drove a 1999 Beetle for 17 years and Mike kept that car on the road and running well most of those years. I learned to respect and depend on their knowledge and appreciate their fairness. I will miss the personal relationship that always made me feel confident that my car was in good hands. Thank you, Mike and Team GM for all the years of excellent service.Vickie Plasker

Ka
Review №59

They are the real deal. Honest service for good people. They are a great value over the dealership and dont over fluff the service.

Da
Review №60

My 11 year old vw has lived in three states and been to a dozen different dealerships over the years. At the recommendation of a friend I started going to German Motors about a year ago, and they have by far been the most pleasant mechanic experience Ive ever had. Their prices are better than a dealership, their work is high quality, and they are very thorough. The owner (I assume) is good at not just diagnosing an issue, but explaining it in detail. When my car check engine light came on because of a faulty temp sensor in the radiator, they not only immediately diagnosed it correctly (I had already figured out the problem myself), but gave me a quote to fix it and also explained that it really wasnt causing any issues except perhaps for a minor decrease in gas mileage. No pressure to fix- just an honest explanation of the problem. They are no frills, but simply honest and good at what they do.

Jo
Review №61

Im an older guy (68) and have been around the block a time or two when it comes to someone working on my car . GERMAN MOTORS ownership and staff are the best Ive experienced in those 68 years. Service, accountability, trustworthy are only a few of the adjectives I would use to describe Mike and his crew!!!!! Ive always felt soooo good after these guys have worked on my car - they are a perfect 100% in the last ten years they have been servicing my car/s. I highly recommend German Motors of Salem. John Turman

Br
Review №62

Ive been using German Motors for several years, and the service has been excellent every time. They are fair, honest and kind.

Je
Review №63

The gentlemen I spoke with over the phone regarding some parts for my Audi assured me he had them in stock and all I would need to do is show him what section of the hose I need. So I drove to Salem to pick up the breather hose I needed for my car.Once I show him what sections of hose I need, he scrambles on his computer and lists off names of towns in Central United States from where hed be ordering it from. I told him my concerns over the hose quality, because I found a revised breather system online. He told me they arent made to last, everything is plastic under the hood of the car anyways, Id put this on my personal vehicle. (the usual salesmen pitch) I told him I like my car and want to ensure the life of it, if that means upgrading things as they break, then thats what Ill do.I guess I was hoping for more small talk on the issue, and a more personal approach on his end to helping me, instead of being the down and dirty salesmen, pick up a buck wherever I can guy.Unfortunately I decided then that I wanted him to order it, knowing at any other parts store, I can always take it back for full-refund if I am not happy, plus you dont pay until parts arrive! His store is different, he needs upfront money from the customer and if they decide to return it, they charge them 15%. Do your own research, find your own parts, and fix it yourself. If you cant, get involved with a german car club and learn or theyll appoint you to a more REPUTABLE mechanic, who has a PASSION for his job!-NW Audi Club Member,Jesse Hohlt

De
Review №64

Dont even call German Motors. Twice now I have tried to do business with this guy and both times he has been borderline rude and completely abrasive. He seems to not care about return customers or receiving new ones. He bad mouths the VW dealership downtown who I do highly recommend if you are looking for VW maintenance. I always try to support local businesses but they only get so many chances before Ill go just about anywhere else.

Li
Review №65

Absolute professionals and consistently half the cost of going through the VW dealership in Salem. They are friendly too, always a huge bonus.

So
Review №66

Accommodating and prompt, straightforward advice, knowledgeable, professional, and thorough. What more could you need in a service shop?

St
Review №67

Took my TT in for a timing belt change on Monday afternoon and picked it up Tuesday. Runs great.

Ro
Review №68

2/1/2019German Motors came through again. I had idling issues with Aurora, 91 VW Westy. Mike had a spare/used idle control unit and idle throttle that he installed until the new parts came in, so I could use the van.Mike also diagnosed steering problems and replaced ball joints and tie end rods. After test driving Aurora when it returned from the alignment shop, he took it back to have castor corrected. Aurora drives like a dream now and has a big smile after visiting her favorite shop.Thank you Mike, Aaron and Brandon, always beyond the call of duty7/11/17Mike and the staff of German Motors of Salem (GMS) came to my rescue again while I was broke down in Great Bend, Kansas. I was travelling from AZ to MI in Aurora (91 Westy) when the expansion tank cracked in 104* weather. I called GMS to see if it was something I could replace or if I needed to take her to a mechanic. Before I knew it, Mike and staff had ordered the parts needed, (tank, cap and sensor) and it was overnighted to the motel in Great Bend, Kansas. I figured it would arrive the next afternoon and I would spend another night at the motel. It actually arrived at 10 am the next morning and I was on the road by noon. Mike and staff has been Aurora’s main mechanic for over 5 years, installed rebuilt engine and transmission, maintenance and expert advice.Last year while at home in AZ I found water in my oil and I thought the worst, cracked block or warped head. I called Mike and he suggested that I check the oil cooler and that was the problem, a cracked oil cooler. It cost more to flush the engine than the part and installation.Mike and staff always take the time to help me and get me on the road again. Keep on truckin’.7/5/16Actually 10 Stars!On July 5, 2016 I stopped at German Motors of Salem unannounced because Aurora (91 VW Westy) wouldn’t start without popping the clutch. We had driven nearly 900 miles (3 days, 2 nights) from Nevada with that starting condition. Mike immediately put her on the lift and diagnosed her with a worn out starter. He replaced the starter with the brand new one he had sitting on the work bench that he had just ordered for his own VW Camper, saying he would just order another one. In twenty minutes I was on my way with a smile on my face and gratitude in my heart.Mike, Aaron and Brandon have been Auroras mechanics for the last 4+ years. Because of their expertise, professionalism, accountability and reliability Aurora and I have been down to Florida and back, across Canada and back, and between OR and AZ many times.Thank you Mike and Staff.

Mi
Review №69

Excellent shop with honest employees.

Ch
Review №70

I have taken my VW 05 Jetta TDI there for years, and have been very happy with the service. Great folks, and a great shop. And I live in Portland, but like the service in Salem better. Highly recommended for any and all VW TDI owners out there...

Tr
Review №71

Brushed off my questions and concerns. Charged $400 just to program an X5 and did not look up manufacturer warranty for a part they wanted $800 to replace. Didnt read my detailed notes on what was wrong. Does not care what the customer thinks.

Information
6 Photos
71 Comments
4.6 Rating
  • Address:1290 12th St SE, Salem, OR 97302, United States
  • Site:http://germanmotorsofsalem.com/
  • Phone:+1 503-585-4759
Categories
  • Auto repair shop
Working hours
  • Monday:Closed
  • Tuesday:8AM–5PM
  • Wednesday:8AM–5PM
  • Thursday:8AM–5PM
  • Friday:8AM–5PM
  • Saturday:8AM–5PM
  • Sunday:Closed
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible entrance:Yes
Offerings
  • Oil change:Yes
Amenities
  • Mechanic:Yes
Planning
  • Appointments recommended:Yes
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