Hans Art Automotive Comparative Summary

When you bring your car to Hans Art Automotive, the work often begins before anyone even lifts your hood. It happens behind the scenes, with Hans Art's technicians scouring your car’s repair history for information that could lead to a more accurate diagnosis—for example, a recurring water pump problem that might point to a faulty thermostat.

That kind of thorough and attentive care is highly unusual among automotive shops, according to Hans Art, owner of Hans Art Automotive. It’s one of the reasons he commands such a high degree of loyalty among his customers, some of whom have been benefitting from his services for 35 years.

Mr. Art is also a proponent of what he calls “transportation management.” Rather than evaluate a single repair against its one-time cost, he encourages customers to consider its value over the life of the car. Doing so, they often discover that diligent maintenance that keeps a car on the road for 15 or even 20 years is the most economical alternative by far, saving thousands of dollars in transportation costs.

Hans Art Automotive understands the concerns that some people have about auto repair shops. Mr. Art stresses that they never have and never will recommend fixing something that doesn't need fixing. "We are interested in helping our clients create a business-like attitude towards car maintenance," says Mr. Art. The trust that has been built by running his business with the highest standards of honesty and integrity has garnered the myriad long-term relationships Mr. Art sites with pride. In addition, his sales staff does not work on commission, further guaranteeing that they are in no way dependent on your final bill. They will never use high-pressure sales techniques. Mr. Art truly believes it's your car and your money, and that you the consumer are in charge.

Hans Art Automotive uses only the highest quality new parts. It also offers a two-year, 24,000-mile warranty—even if that exceeds the manufacturers terms. What’s more, Mr. Art will often extend the warranty further if he believes a part failed prematurely. Most car dealers, by comparison, offer a flat one-year warranty. Local mechanics typically offer 90 days.

In addition, they offer used and rebuilt parts for special circumstances. These parts carry more limited warranties.

Hans Art Automotive schedules service and repairs primarily by appointment. This means that when you arrive with your car, a technician is there, ready to perform the necessary work. They also accept walk-ins whenever possible, striving for fast turnaround. They encourage customers to stop in any time for simple items like tire-filling and oil checks and changes. They send reminders about follow-ups and routine maintenance. They even offer access to low-cost loaner vehicles.

Extending these courtesies is how Hans Art Automotive has build its reputation as a community-minded business, what Art Hans calls “a family kind of place.” It also helped earn him AAA approval, "Best of the Bay" recognition from the San Francisco Bay Guardian, and high ratings from "Consumer Check Book" and the Better Business Bureau.