Oakland Auto Works Comparative Summary

Oakland Auto Works is a full-service mechanical auto repair shop that has special expertise in brands such as Acura, Honda, Mazda, Nissan, Subaru and Toyota. “We don't want to be a one-visit shop,” says owner Glen Poy-Wing. “Our objective is to develop long-term relationships with our customers. We even use a comprehensive database to track their vehicle maintenance over time.”

Oakland Auto Works’ mechanics take time to educate customers about the maintenance work their cars are receiving and why it’s necessary. They use visual aids and straightforward explanations to clearly explain the details of every repair.

Mr. Poy-Wing says Oakland Auto Works is especially adept at identifying problems. Using assessment files, the company’s mechanics sit down with customers and ask them to explain, in their own words, the problems they’re experiencing with their cars. “Then,” says Mr. Poy-Wing, “we narrow down possible solutions and explain them in layman’s terms.” The company can also conduct test drives with customers to help determine particular problems by identifying and isolating problem noises, vibrations and other symptoms.

Oakland Auto Works also prides itself on offering exceptional customer service. “We have very little mechanic turnover, and we’re extremely proud of that,” says Mr. Poy-Wing. “Our mechanics know our customers, procedures and systems. And since they specialize in certain models, they’re often able to identify problems that other shops can’t, because they’ve seen them before.”

Oakland Auto Works’ management and staff attend new classes and training programs to stay updated on all the vehicle models the company services. “Fortunately for us, we're part of the AAA group, and they offer substantial training classes,” says Mr. Poy-Wing. “We also attend classes sponsored by our vendors and use local colleges that offer training in any new technologies that come to the market.”

To help its customers manage long-term service, Oakland Auto Works sends reminder cards for required services based on suggested manufacturers’ maintenance schedules.