Experts Reviews · Company report
Alvin's Auto Center logoHow the Experts Score is calculatedEach factor is scored 0–100 on absolute terms (standing in the category can only raise it), then weighted; problems flagged in review highlights or a recent slide in ratings are subtracted:Satisfaction 55%84+45.8Reliability 24%74+17.9Value 14%100+14.1Replies to reviews 7%10+0.7Momentum penalty85−1.5Experts Score= 77Grade B: A = 80+, B = 60–79, C = 40–59, D = 20–39. Needs 10+ reviews.77SCORE

Alvin's Auto Center

San Jose, CA · Grade BLetter from the Experts Score: A = 80+, B = 60–79, C = 40–59, D = 20–39, F = under 20. · #378Position by Experts Score among all companies we track in this category. of 482 auto repair shops · 4.9★ from 373 Google reviews

Report card

Percentile vs other auto repair shops (100 = best)Each factor is scored 0–100 on absolute terms (star average, share of 1–2★ reviews, price verdicts…); standing within the category can only raise it, never lower it.. Strongest: craft & service and value; weakest: replies to reviews.

SatisfactionSatisfaction · 54% of the scoreRecency-weighted star average (2-year half-life), shrunk toward the category mean by review volume; the company’s own lifetime average as the prior; absolute: 4.0★ = 0, 5★ = 100.Alvin's Auto Center is better than 84% of auto repair shops.A
84
ReliabilityReliability · 24% of the scoreHow rarely jobs go badly: share of 1–2★ reviews — 60% the last 24 months (or the 20 newest if fewer), 40% all-time; 0% = 100, 15%+ = 0; the category percentile can only raise it.Alvin's Auto Center is better than 74% of auto repair shops.B
74
Craft & serviceCraft & service · 0% of the scoreGoogle review highlights: Quality, Professionalism, Responsiveness, Punctuality — how rarely reviewers flag them as a negative, per review since highlights began; 0% = 100, 5%+ = 0. Subtracted from the score (up to −10), never averaged in — clean highlights are the norm, not a bonus.Alvin's Auto Center is better than 100% of auto repair shops.A
100
ValueValue · 14% of the scoreCustomers’ own price verdicts (Great / Reasonable vs Overpriced) and Value highlights; 65% absolute (all “reasonable” ≈ 80, “great” = 100), the category percentile can only raise it.Alvin's Auto Center is better than 100% of auto repair shops.A
100
MomentumMomentum · 0% of the scorePenalises only a real slide: last-12-month average below lifetime (−0.5★ = 0). Still 4.8★+ over the last year, or steady/improving = 100. Subtracted from the score (up to −10), never averaged in.Alvin's Auto Center is better than 85% of auto repair shops.A
85
Replies to reviewsReplies to reviews · 7% of the scoreHow often the owner publicly replies to reviews under 5★ (1–4★). Needs 3+ such reviews, otherwise not counted; 65% absolute (80%+ replied = 100), the category percentile can only raise it.Alvin's Auto Center is better than 10% of auto repair shops.F
10

Reviews for your job

Customers hired Alvin's Auto Center for 8 kinds of job.

Alvin's Auto Center for vehicle inspection

Clear ✕
Jobs reviewedHow many Google reviews are tagged with this job.41
★ on this jobAverage stars on the reviews where the customer tagged this exact job (Google’s “Services” field).4.95
Usually paidThe price range customers picked most often for this job.—
Rank for this jobPosition of this company in the Job match ranking for this job among the companies we track.Its Job match: 84/100.How Job match is calculatedBuilt only from reviews Google tagged “Vehicle Inspection”:Stars on this job 55%Number of such jobs 25%Overall Experts Score 20%Stars are pulled toward the category average when a company has few tagged jobs, so 3 perfect reviews don’t beat 80 great ones. 4.3★ scores 0, 5.0★ scores full. Volume is compared with the busiest company for this job.#44 / 170
Said fairOf customers who rated the price, the share who chose “Great price” or “Reasonable” rather than “Overpriced”.100%

All 41 Google reviews tagged “Vehicle Inspection” · showing 40

Kevin1 reviewTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · a month ago★★★★★

I brought my 2022 Toyota 4Runner in for 120k mile maintenance at Alvin's Auto Center in Willow Glen, San Jose, and it was by far the best experience I've had at any shop in the city. What really stood out was their technology — the way they handle inspections, communication, and customer service is on another level.…

Customer photo from Kevin's review
Great priceTransmissionAir & cabin filter replacementSteering & suspension repair
sheila5 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · Edited 2 months ago★★★★★

I have used Alvin's Auto Center for the past year. Every time I have been greeted by friendly and professional people. I completely trust them with my vehicles. They keep you updated through the entire time they have your vehicle. I highly recommend this company for any and all vehicle repairs. Family owned friendly business in Willow Glen.

Reasonable priceGeneral repairs & maintenanceTire rotationsVehicle Inspection
Huy4 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 2 months ago★★★★★

I think it was slightly overpriced, but I did not shop around. The service was done as expected. Brake fluid, oil change, and transmission fluid was done promptly and making the appointment was very easy. Vehicle inspection and their process of sending the results of the inspection was very easy to use. I declined…

Not sureTransmissionTire rotationsVehicle Inspection
Gerardo1 reviewTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 2 months ago★★★★★

Had a very good experience, very through with the diagnoses, and estimates are very concise, did a through inspection on vehicle and will certainly do the rest of the maintenance required on my car with this auto center

Reasonable priceAuto engine diagnosticVehicle InspectionVehicle safety inspection
melissa6 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 6 months ago★★★★★

took car in for a ppi and they were very transparent and thorough in their diagnostic

Vehicle Inspection
S6 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · Edited 6 months ago★★★★★

Brought my 2002 VW Eurovan in for an inspection and AC repair. The entire experience was outstanding. Tony, the manager, is knowledgeable, friendly, helpful, and patient, and the team prepared my vehicle for a fun, safe, camping trip, with sn air-conditioned drive! Wholeheartedly recommend Alvin’s.

General repairs & maintenanceVehicle InspectionA/C installation & repair
KristianneLocal Guide · 13 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 7 months ago★★★★★

Find integrity at Alvin’s Auto Center - stop letting other repair shops exploit you! After being stranded for six months and losing $8,000 to incompetent mechanics, I was at my breaking point. Then I found Maintenance For Mom’s who lead me to Alvin’s. Unlike the others, Sam and Anthony didn't just "guess"—they…

Great priceGeneral repairs & maintenanceAuto engine diagnosticEngine repair
Jim2 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 8 months ago★★★★★

I have been to Alvin’s auto center on many occasions for all my vehicles. They are simply the best. Starting with Sam who runs the place. He is professional, explains everything thoroughly and will go through all options with you. He is very knowledgeable and respectful . Their technicians are top notch and have…

Reasonable priceGeneral repairs & maintenanceElectricalVehicle Inspection
Jason1 reviewTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 8 months ago★★★★★

Prices are reasonable, they work incredibly fast, the staff is friendly and goes above and beyond. Too many places feel like they are ripping you off or have awful communication. Not this place. These guys do an amazing job.

Reasonable priceAir & cabin filter replacementGeneral repairs & maintenanceTire rotations
Nancy3 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 8 months ago★★★★★

Took great care of my 14 year old Honda Civic including a small mystery cover that fell off from somewhere in the engine

Reasonable priceVehicle InspectionOil change
Cynthia4 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 11 months ago★★★★★

Very pleasant to work with, knowledgeable and efficient for a reasonable price.

Reasonable priceTire rotationsVehicle InspectionOil change
kevin1 reviewTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · a year ago★★★★★

Brought my Lexus 250 and Honda Civic here for engine oil and filter changes, tire rotations, AC repair, etc. Have been going here for years for basically any car maintenance needed. Tony and staff are extremely helpful. Also huge plus you can schedule appointments online!

Great priceAir & cabin filter replacementTiresGeneral repairs & maintenance
Irena5 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · Edited a year ago★★★★★

Highly recommend! Always fast, professional and reasonably priced. My car will last me forever! Thank you!

Great priceAuto engine diagnosticVehicle InspectionVehicle safety inspection
JeffLocal Guide · 81 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · Edited a year ago★★★★★

I recently purchased a 2018 Lexus, and although low miles I wanted to have it serviced and not pay dealer price, so I went online. Alvin's had many good reviews, but closed on weekends, my days off from work. However, I was given veterans day off, so around noon I called Alvin's. I was told they are booked for the…

Vehicle InspectionOil change+ Punctuality+ Quality+ Professionalism
WesleyLocal Guide · 300 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · Edited 2 years ago★★★★★

Alvin's auto always does a great job at fair prices. They have kept my car well maintained for years and I'm so happy they have a more convenient San Jose location now.

Air & cabin filter replacementTiresAuto engine tuning
Danielle1 reviewTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 3 years ago★★★★★

Super in-depth inspection!! Very helpful and caring every step of the way ^_^

Vehicle Inspection
Elias3 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 3 years ago★★★★★

Great service. Professionals at their best! I highly recommend Alvin's Auto Center.

Auto maintenanceGeneral repairs & maintenanceOil change
Victor2 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · Edited 3 years ago★★★★★

Alvin and Tony both very courteous and professional. Very clean shop and provide timely service.

Air & cabin filter replacementBrakesAir conditioning
DebLocal Guide · 59 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · Edited 3 years ago★★★★★

They have a very knowledgeable and friendly staff. Solid work on our cars.

A/C installation & repairAuto A/C rechargeGeneral repairs & maintenance
vanessa4 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 3 years ago★★★★★

I love this place, found them on yelp and they are so close to work so I was able to drop it off and walk to work. Super friendly and explained everything well. Great customer service!! Will be coming here for my auto maintenance needs. They also gave me access to pick up my car after they closed because I got off of work late.

Auto maintenanceOil changeVehicle Inspection
Ron3 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 3 years ago★★★★★

The team at ALVINS Auto Center has always given us First Class service with our Toyotas, Mini, and Porsche! Japanese & European makes, they have imports covered with their automotive knowledge, vast skill sets…and top notch honest/friendly customer service that keeps us loyal for many years to come! Many thanks to Tony and his entire team!

Auto maintenanceGeneral repairs & maintenanceOil change
K1 reviewTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 3 years ago★★★

Alvin’s Inspection of the car recommended $2,000 of repair. I took the car to my regular mechanic and he said all the parts were functional and have 20k to 30k of life left on them. The issues were cosmetic in nature. It seems like they are trying to “up sell” to make money at customers expense. Better clarity and…

Vehicle InspectionVehicle safety inspectionWheel alignment
Fabiola3 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 3 years ago★★★★★

The customer service was greeted with warmth and prompt communication. My car needs were explained clearly and in great detail. My family is very confident in taking our vehicles to Alvin’s

Vehicle Inspection
Paul2 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 3 years ago★★★★★

This was my first time at Alvin's Auto Center. I was treated very professionally and was kept informed through out the car serving about any things extra which might need further attention. I left my car and they finished in great time and notified me when I could come by to get the car. I found this Auto Center…

Oil changeVehicle Inspection
AlfredLocal Guide · 16 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 3 years ago★★★★★

This has to be one of the best auto repair shops in the Bay Area . Great customer service and they go over and beyond to help the customer with any problems that may happen. I would highly recommend them for your service

BrakesAuto engine diagnosticEngine repair
Alaina1 reviewTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 3 years ago★★★★★

Excellent customer service , prompt, reliable, honest, nothing but positive experience with Alvin’s auto repair off of Lincoln in San Jose

Auto brake replacementBrakesOil change
ChrisLocal Guide · 27 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 3 years ago★★★★★

Anthony and team were fantastic. Respectful of my time, thorough explanations with pictures to validate. Competitive pricing, professional looking work area. Will return. 10/10 recommend.

Oil changeVehicle Inspection
Zoey10 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 3 years ago★★★★★

Good, quick service. People were friendly. Services were itemized and could be easily, individually approved or denied which I really appreciated. Will definitely come again.

General repairs & maintenanceVehicle Inspection
Tony4 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 3 years ago★★★★★

Tony is the best! Courteous, professional, and accommodating. Good communication, fair pricing.

Auto maintenanceGeneral repairs & maintenanceTransmission
Brittany2 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 3 years ago★★★★★

They always do a great job, Tony is pleasant and very helpful!

Air & cabin filter replacementElectricalOil change
nick2 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 3 years ago★★★★★

Very professional,tony kept me informed about the car progression the whole time.they found repairs that I had done somewhere else recently to be improperly put together that I would have not known about if it wasn't for alvin's.much appreciated,car drives so much better now , great job!

Steering & suspension replacementSteering & suspension repairVehicle Inspection
Jon1 reviewTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · Edited 3 years ago★★★★★

Excellent service! Been using this auto shop for almost a year now. This shop’s service is above amazing, highly knowledgeable, and very professional. I would highly recommend them to anyone.

Auto battery maintenanceAuto maintenanceBattery
Steve5 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 4 years ago★★★★★

Tony and his crew at Alvin’s Auto Center did an excellent job on my car; I feel like I am driving a brand new car again. Excellent customer service, honest value, very thorough with their inspections, and high quality job done. Highly recommend Alvin’s Auto Center for anyone looking for their auto repair and maintenance needs.

Auto maintenanceAuto tire replacementBrakes
P.Local Guide · 21 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 4 years ago★★★★★

Anthony runs a clean, new shop but brings years of family tradition in expertise, great communication, and honesty. His shop has grown and they are always finding ways to improve. Less than a year after taking my classic car in for service, they have grown in service and clientele which is a telling sign. I also…

General repairs & maintenanceVehicle Inspection
Duncan2 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 4 years ago★★★★★

I had an issue with my 2013 Honda Civic where all my lights turned on in the dashboard. Alvin’s auto center, did a full diagnostic, and figured out exactly what the problem was and sent over pictures and a full quote which was very reasonable. I especially loved how technology advanced they are where you can get all…

Auto brake replacementElectricalAuto engine diagnostic
Patrick1 reviewTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 4 years ago★★★★★

The folks at Alvin's are top notch! They are honest, communicate well, do great work and are fast! I brought in a recently purchased vehicle which they diagnosed, estimated costs, and repaired it. They only used genuine OEM parts. I highly recommend them.

Auto maintenanceAuto water leak repairBrakes
JosephLocal Guide · 15 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 4 years ago★★★★★

Power Steering fluid, checked power steering pump, replaced coolant fluid, brake fluid

Auto brake repairAuto brake replacementAuto engine diagnostic
Andrew3 years ago★★★★★

Rating only, no written review.

Air & cabin filter replacementAuto battery maintenanceElectrical repair
Sachlene2 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 3 years ago★★★★★

Rating only, no written review.

Steering & suspension repairVehicle Inspection
Peter2 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 3 years ago★★★★★

Rating only, no written review.

Steering & suspension replacementVehicle Inspection

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Price

Not enough reviews with a price yet.

Price verdictsGoogle asks reviewers whether the price was great, reasonable or overpriced; these are their answers.

Great price 35%Reasonable 52%Overpriced 6%Not sure 6%

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