Auto repair shop · Novato, CA · reviewed since 2016
iHow 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%95+51.8Reliability 24%96+23.3Value 14%100+14.1Replies to reviews 7%73+5.2Craft & service penalty83−1.7Experts Score= 93Grade A: A = 80+, B = 60–79, C = 40–59, D = 20–39. Needs 10+ reviews.93SCORE
AGradeiLetter from the Experts Score: A = 80+, B = 60–79, C = 40–59, D = 20–39, F = under 20.
#8 of 78 tire shopsiPosition by Experts Score among all companies we track in this category. · better than 91%
4.9★★★★★256 Google reviews · 18 photos
97%five-star reviews
4.91★last 12 monthsiAverage stars on reviews from the last 12 months only.
0%1–2★ in 2 yearsiShare of 1–2★ reviews in the last 24 months — or the 20 newest reviews when the company had fewer than 20 in that time.
Google reviewers rate Novato Auto Service 4.9 out of 5 based on 256 reviews, with the owner responding to 80 percent of them. Customers frequently praise the shop for honest communication, fair pricing, and thorough diagnostics for issues like brakes, electrical systems, and routine maintenance. Many highlight the convenience of same-day completion and clear updates via text. One low-star review criticized a significant delay in completing scheduled brake and bearing repairs, which contradicted the initial timeline provided.
Google rating: 4.9 out of 5 from 256 reviews (97% five-star).
Reviews on this page: 256 Google reviews (197 with written comments, 4 with photos).
Owner responses: the business replied to 80% of reviews.
Most recent review: September 21, 2026.
Service: Tire Shop serving Novato, California.
Data from Google, last updated October 25, 2026.
Score profile vs other tire shops
Score per factor (100 = best)iEach 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: value and momentum; weakest: replies to reviews.
Novato Auto ServiceTire Shops median0 = centre, 100 = best
SatisfactioniSatisfaction · 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.Novato Auto Service: 95/100 on this factor. Category median: 83.A
95
ReliabilityiReliability · 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.Novato Auto Service: 96/100 on this factor. Category median: 81.A
96
Craft & serviceiCraft & service · penalty only, up to −10 pointsGoogle 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.Novato Auto Service: 83/100 on this factor. Category median: 99.A
83
ValueiValue · 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.Novato Auto Service: 100/100 on this factor. Category median: 100.A
100
MomentumiMomentum · penalty only, up to −10 pointsPenalises 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.Novato Auto Service: 100/100 on this factor. Category median: 100.A
100
Replies to reviewsiReplies 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.Novato Auto Service: 73/100 on this factor. Category median: 34.B
73
Bar = this company · dark tick = category median.
Star ratings
256 Google reviews we collected
4.9of 5
5 stars24897%
4 stars52%
3 stars10%
2 stars10%
1 star10%
Praise vs complaints
Phrases our text analysis found in 197 written reviews
99%praise
Praise34499%
Complaints41%
PriceiGoogle asks reviewers whether the price was great, reasonable or overpriced; these are their answers.
Price verdicts customers left with their Google review
100%fair
Great price1144%
Reasonable1456%
Overpriced00%
Not sure00%
Topic share
How often each topic comes up in the written reviews
7topics
Quality & results6318%
Honesty & trust6318%
Price & value6118%
Staff & attitude5315%
Speed & response4814%
Would recommend3911%
Communication216%
What customers talk about
We read 197 written reviews and marked every phrase about these topics. The same colors are highlighted in the reviews.
“Scott did his usual great job and kept me informed on progress and quickly got me back on the road.”
“I trust Scott to be honest, skilled, and effective, and he hasn’t let me down.”
“Scott is honest, fair and performs quality repairs.”
“I always feel confident that my car will be taken care of and I will not be overcharged or charged for unnecessary repairs.”
“He was helpful and resouceful beyond my highest hopes.”
“They will clearly explain and promptly take care of each issue that will keep you running smoothly.”
“Good attitude fast and very convenient I definitely recommend it.”
“Scott took the time to thoroughly diagnose the issues, explain everything clearly, and fix the problems correctly.”
People customers mention
Scott37 reviews
Tonya5 reviews
Kyle3 reviews
Toyota3 reviews
praise complaint · found by our text analysis, Google review wording unchanged.
Reviews for your job
Customers hired Novato Auto Service for 8 kinds of job. Pick one to see what they paid and said.
Molly3 reviewsiTotal 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 am clueless about fixing all things car related. Scott, his wife, his son and crew always give me the “real” information that I need to keep my truck running smoothly at all times. The price is very reasonable. They are wonderful! This car has to last. Currently on 169,999 miles.
Reasonable priceAuto body & trim repairElectrical repairGeneral repairs & maintenance
MichaelLocal Guide · 17 reviewsiTotal 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★★★★★
Scott did his usual great job and kept me informed on progress and quickly got me back on the road.
Auto engine diagnostic
Lisa4 reviewsiTotal 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 always feel confident that my car will be taken care of and I will not be overcharged or charged for unnecessary repairs.
Auto engine diagnosticGeneral repairs & maintenanceOil change+ Punctuality+ Quality+ Professionalism
Janine5 reviewsiTotal 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★★★★★
Scott and his team are honest, thorough and underpromised and overdelivered. The 1st time I came for an estimate and his was the best of the 3. Price, honesty, timeline and a positive experience with other staff. The other guy, I wish I could remember his name. He was helpful and resouceful beyond my highest hopes.…
Richard5 reviewsiTotal 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 months ago★★★★★
Novato Auto Service is reliable. Scott and crew will analyze your car's condition and inform you clearly if there are issues or it is time to check certain aspects of performance. They will clearly explain and promptly take care of each issue that will keep you running smoothly. It is good to know you can trust…
Great priceGeneral repairs & maintenance
Richard12 reviewsiTotal 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 months ago★★★★★
First time servicing here, but definitely not the last. Scott is honest, fair and performs quality repairs. This is the why quality shops like this remain in business for years.
We are privileged to receive your kind words, Robert. Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us at Novato Auto Service. Knowing that you received great service means a lot to our team. We look forward to being there for you whenever you need us again. Feel free to reach out at (415) 598-1488 anytime.
Molly Kerr3 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Molly has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
I am clueless about fixing all things car related. Scott, his wife, his son and crew always give me the “real” information that I need to keep my truck running smoothly at all times. The price is very reasonable. They are wonderful! This car has to last. Currently on 169,999 miles.
Price assessment: Reasonable price
Services: Auto body & trim repair, Electrical repair, General repairs & maintenance, Electrical, Auto engine diagnostic, Brakes, A/C installation & repair, Oil change
Response from the owner · a month ago
Thank you for your wonderful feedback, Molly! It is so great to hear that Scott, his wife, his son, and the entire crew have been able to give you the clear, honest information you need to keep your truck in great shape. Reaching 169,999 miles is a real achievement, and it sounds like you have a fantastic team looking out for you every step of the way. We are glad that the pricing feels reasonable and that the experience has been a positive one. We will be here to help keep that truck going strong for many more miles to come!
Craig Silvestri6 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Craig has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
I trust Scott to be honest, skilled, and effective, and he hasn’t let me down.
Response from the owner · a month ago
Your feedback is incredibly valuable to us, Craig. Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. Knowing that Scott has consistently earned your trust through his honesty and skill means a great deal to our entire team. We are committed to maintaining that standard of care with every visit, and we look forward to continuing to serve you at Novato Auto Service.
K O (K A I N O A)3 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews K has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
I previously had a check engine light on that I’ve delayed which seems it might be the catalytic converter, or oxygen sensors, both are pretty expense.
When my car wouldn’t start you could imagine I was worried as hell — I was getting take out across the street from his shop, when it happened and I was able to graciously park it at his compound over night.
By morning we met, and while I was distressed about the uncertainty, maybe catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, and with a smile and grin, he made two guesses that came out to be the exact issue, one of them being the total control system for the Mazda CX-5, and battery together for it not starting.
He did more than just that, he flushed the car out, pumped my tires, refilled the wiper fluid, and replaced my battery which was old.
The car runs better than it had previously by a long shot, and he cleared the check engine light codes which made me feel I could push things a little longer haha 😅
I cannot thank Scott enough and I’ll be sure to visit him if I have any more issues or questions.
Thank you Scott!
Price assessment: Great price
Services: Electrical repair, Tires, Electrical, Vehicle Inspection, Battery, Service not listed
Response from the owner · 2 months ago
We are grateful for sharing such a detailed and heartfelt experience, Kainoa. It means a lot to hear that what started as a stressful situation turned into a positive one.
We completely understand how worrying it can be when your car suddenly will not start, especially when you are far from home and unsure of what the problem might be. We are glad Scott was able to put your mind at ease, quickly pinpoint the issues, and get your Mazda CX-5 running better than before.
It is wonderful to hear that he went the extra mile by flushing the system, pumping the tires, refilling the wiper fluid, and replacing the battery. That kind of thorough care is exactly what we aim to provide every customer who comes to us.
We will be sure to pass along your kind words to Scott. Thank you for trusting Novato Auto Service, and we look forward to being here for you whenever you need us. You can also reach us at (415) 598-1488 if any questions come up in the meantime.
Michael BairdLocal Guide · 17 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Michael has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Scott did his usual great job and kept me informed on progress and quickly got me back on the road.
Services: Auto engine diagnostic
Response from the owner · 3 years ago
Hi, Michael. We are grateful to know that your experience with us was an amazing one! We are always happy to hear appreciation from our customers. We look forward to seeing you again soon.
Steve Lehtonen5 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Steve has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Thank you for sharing your feedback, Steve. We are glad to hear that you had an excellent experience with us and that you found our work to be fairly priced. Providing quality service at a fair price is something we genuinely care about, and it means a lot to know we delivered on that for you. We appreciate your trust in Novato Auto Service and look forward to helping you again in the future. If you ever need anything, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at (415) 598-1488.
Jim ShroyerLocal Guide · 18 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Jim has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Thank you, Jim, for taking the time to leave such a kind review. We are glad to hear that you had a great experience with us at Novato Auto Service. Providing reliable and quality service is something we take seriously, and it means a great deal to know that came through during your visit. We look forward to seeing you again whenever you need us. Feel free to reach out at (415) 598-1488 if there is ever anything we can help you with.
Lisa Nichols4 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Lisa has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Scott and his team are honest, thorough and underpromised and overdelivered. The 1st time I came for an estimate and his was the best of the 3. Price, honesty, timeline and a positive experience with other staff. The other guy, I wish I could remember his name. He was helpful and resouceful beyond my highest hopes. I recently came for an oil change and brakes. High rec for Scott and Novato Auto Service. Support small, local business. This one has honesty, integrity and hard work.
Response from the owner · 2 months ago
Thank you for your wonderful feedback, Janine! It means a great deal to hear that Scott and the team made such a positive impression on you. Honest, thorough service that goes beyond expectations is exactly what we strive for every day, and we are glad that came through from your very first visit.
We also appreciate you mentioning the other team member who helped you. Even without the name, please know that your kind words will be shared with the whole crew. It is always encouraging to hear when our staff goes above and beyond.
We are happy that your recent visit for an oil change and brakes was a smooth experience as well. Your support of Novato Auto Service and your encouragement for others to support small, local businesses truly warms our hearts. We look forward to seeing you again and continuing to earn your trust. Thank you, Janine.
Richard Waibel5 reviewsiTotal number of Google reviews Richard has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Novato Auto Service is reliable. Scott and crew will analyze your car's condition and inform you clearly if there are issues or it is time to check certain aspects of performance. They will clearly explain and promptly take care of each issue that will keep you running smoothly. It is good to know you can trust their judgement, work and parts. I have had numerous vehicles there for service over the years, with complete satisfaction.
Price assessment: Great price
Services: General repairs & maintenance
Response from the owner · 3 months ago
We sincerely value your kind words, Richard. It means a great deal to hear that you have trusted Novato Auto Service with your vehicles over the years. Scott and the crew take pride in being straightforward and thorough, so knowing that their communication and care have made a real difference to you is truly meaningful. Thank you for your continued loyalty and for sharing your experience. We look forward to keeping you and your vehicles running smoothly for many years to come.
