Import Auto Repair in Santa Barbara

We specialize in all imported and foreign vehicles including Japanese, European, and Korean brands: Toyota, Honda, BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Subaru, Hyundai, Volkswagen, and more. We also repair vintage VWs from the '60s and '70s.

While appointments are preferred, we do accept walk-ins when possible. Call us at (805) 964-6554 or use our Request Service form to schedule your visit.

Yes. We offer 10% off for military personnel and first responders (up to $50, ID required) and 10% off for AAA members (up to $75).

We're open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM, then 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. We're closed midday from 12:30 to 2:00 and on Saturday and Sunday. After-hours and pre-opening drop-off is available for your convenience.

Yes. We always provide a detailed estimate and get your approval before performing any repairs. We promise to never oversell services, only what your vehicle truly needs.

Yes. We have a comfortable waiting area with free Wi-Fi so you can work or relax while we take care of your vehicle.

Brake repair costs vary depending on the vehicle and extent of work needed. A typical brake pad replacement ranges from $150 to $350 per axle, while rotor resurfacing or replacement may add to the total. We always provide a free, no-obligation estimate before beginning any work.

Most modern import vehicles recommend oil changes every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on whether you use conventional or synthetic oil. European vehicles like BMW and Mercedes often require full synthetic oil and longer intervals. We'll check your manufacturer's recommendations and advise accordingly.

The check engine light can indicate anything from a loose gas cap to a serious engine issue. We use advanced diagnostic scanners to read the trouble codes specific to your import vehicle and provide an accurate diagnosis. Don't ignore it, bring it in and we'll pinpoint the issue quickly.

Yes, we service hybrid import vehicles including Toyota Prius, Honda Insight, Hyundai Ioniq, and others. For fully electric vehicles, certain specialized repairs may require a dealer visit, but we handle routine maintenance, brakes, suspension, and diagnostics.

Most routine services like oil changes and brake work are completed the same day. More complex repairs (transmission work, engine diagnostics, or parts that need to be ordered) may take 1 to 3 business days. We'll always give you a time estimate upfront.

Our scheduled maintenance follows your manufacturer's recommended service intervals and typically includes oil and filter change, fluid level checks, tire rotation, brake inspection, belt and hose inspection, battery test, and a multi-point safety check. We tailor it to your specific vehicle.

While we don't perform the official smog certification test, we do offer pre-smog inspections and repairs. If your vehicle has failed a smog test, we can diagnose and fix the underlying issues so you can pass on your next attempt.

Yes. We stand behind our work with a 24-month / 24,000-mile warranty on most repairs. We use OEM-quality or better parts to ensure lasting results.

We proudly serve Santa Barbara, Goleta, Montecito, Carpinteria, and the surrounding communities along the Central Coast. Many customers drive from as far as Ventura and San Luis Obispo for our specialized import repair services.

In many cases, yes. Repairing a well-maintained import vehicle is often far more cost-effective than buying new. We'll give you an honest assessment of your vehicle's condition and help you decide whether repair or replacement makes the most financial sense.

Independent shops like Top Shop offer the same quality of service as dealerships, often better, at significantly lower prices. Our ASE-certified mechanics have decades of import-specific experience, we use OEM-quality parts, and you'll always get personalized, honest attention you won't find at a large dealer.

Synthetic oil is engineered to provide superior engine protection, better performance in extreme temperatures, and longer intervals between changes. Most European imports (BMW, Mercedes, Audi, VW) require full synthetic. Japanese imports can often use either, but synthetic typically provides better longevity. We'll recommend the right type for your vehicle.