Best Brisbane Mechanics
Updated 19 March 2023
Summary
- Need a reliable Car Mechanic in Brisbane? Whether you need a service, brake repairs or any other type of repair, our guide aims to save you money and get your car in front of the best local experts.
- Every Brisbane driver fears calling a garage only to be told “we’ve found a couple of things wrong with your car that will need to be replaced.”
- Before you find yourself in a bind, consider how to get the best prices from mechanics to find the best prices when you need a working car without the hassle and uncertainty around bills.
- To help you choose with confidence, our guide covers how much mechanics can cost per hour (as every repair is different), how to get the best price, must-know facts, DIY options and frequently asked questions.
- We also list twenty trusted and reliable mechanics with a proven track record in Brisbane.
How Much Does a Mechanic Cost?
- There’s no standard answer since a mechanic can charge different prices depending on the work done. For example, a simple cam belt may cost around $600 for one car whereas a suspension overhaul will cost several thousands of dollars. For this reason, we’re unable to list prices or estimates.
- As a background, on average, car mechanics charge $60 – $80 an hour, but that’s just for the labour. You still have to pay for the parts, which can vary considerably. GST is added on top of this too.
- You have many options when hiring a mechanic. For example, you may opt for used parts (rather than new parts) to save money. However, the complexity of the problem matters too. Not only will it take more time to handle a complex issue, but the work involved can cost you more.
- For all of the reasons above, we suggest getting a handful of quotes so that you understand exactly what you should be paying.
Questions to Ask During a Quote
- What is the total cost? Don’t let a mechanic give you a ballpark figure or just quote the hourly rate. Instead, ask for the full cost, including parts, labour, GST, and other factors that might affect your price.
- Do you have experience with the make and model of my vehicle? Mechanics can do basic work on all cars, but they can’t do speciality work on all vehicles. Look elsewhere if a mechanic isn’t familiar with your car’s make and model.
- Can I get used parts? Sometimes you don’t need new parts depending on what it is and what’s wrong with the car. Always ask about the possibilities of saving on parts costs. If you prefer to buy your parts, ask if the mechanic will allow you to bring them in. However, most mechanics won’t be able to offer a warranty on parts they didn’t purchase themselves.
- Do you offer free estimates? If you aren’t sure what’s wrong with your car, ask if they’ll offer a free estimate. If they won’t, ask if you go ahead with the repairs, will they waive the diagnostic fee?
- Can you break down the repairs into layman’s terms? Don’t agree to pay for things you don’t understand. Get the mechanic to explain each part of the quote so that you a fully aware of what you’re paying for. This way, there’s far less chance of a misunderstanding.
- How long will the repair take? You need your car out of the mechanics as soon as possible and avoid dragging out any reliance on alternative transportation.
- Do you offer a warranty on parts and labour? Before you agree to any quote, make sure the work is protected. There is no state or government guidance on how long a repair should last, but 1-2 years is reasonable, although if the repair work is done correctly, it’s unlikely there will be a problem after that.
- Do you offer any discounts or specials? Some mechanics offer discounts for certain services or specials for new customers -don’t be embarrassed or afraid to ask.
Five Ways to Get the Best Price for a Mechanical Repair
- Ask the mechanic to call you before making additional repairs – If something unexpected comes up while the mechanic works on the car, give explicit instructions for him to call you before completing the repair. This way, you can shop around and compare the cost, deciding if you want it repaired.
- Consider capped or fixed-price price servicing – Car manufacturers have a program called capped price servicing that offers complete transparency about the typical costs to service a car at various intervals. You can see the pricing before buying the car and sometimes even pay for the servicing with the vehicle, so you’ve already paid for the most critical servicing needs. Fixed prices, like capped prices, offer programs for specific car repair issues that have a fixed price. This means no surprises at checkout. You know what you’re getting and how much it will cost. Most independent mechanic shops offer this option.
- Use a garage mechanic rather than a mobile mechanic – Bring your car to the mechanic’s garage unless you’re in a bind. They charge higher fees for the convenience of travelling to you, which is unnecessary if the car is drivable.
- Take your car to a mechanic that knows your make and model – Every car mechanic has his speciality. Keep your car with mechanics that know your make and model. They can do the work faster and run into fewer issues which should cost you less.
- Avoid the dealers – Many car dealers will make you think you must use them for your car repairs or you’ll void your warranty. This typically isn’t true. You won’t void your warranty if you use a licensed and certified mechanic.
Before agreeing to any quote, make sure you understand the following:
- Some makes and models cost more to repair than others – If you have a car with special needs, such as specific oils or parts, it may cost more to fix than other cars. Always ask about the cost for your specific make and model if you’re calling for a quote.
- Always get the quote in writing – Don’t assume the mechanic will stick to what he said during a quote unless it’s in writing. You have nothing to go back on should the total be different at checkout if you don’t have it in writing.
- Find out about the parts and labour warranty – Many mechanics offer a warranty or guarantee on their work and the parts for a limited time. Find out about the guarantee before choosing a mechanic so you can save yourself money should something go wrong shortly after using the service.
Can I DIY Car Repairs Instead?
You can save money and take on car repairs, but it’s not without its hassle, and it’s essential to understand the potential risks and benefits. While some repairs are simple and can be done by anyone, others require higher expertise and should be left to professionals.
Important: If you attempt a repair without the proper knowledge or tools, you could end up making the problem worse and causing more damage to your car. In some cases, a failed DIY repair could even void your car’s warranty, which could end up costing you thousands of dollars in repairs. Overall:
- Oil changes, air filter replacements, changing windscreen wipers and replacing the battery are standard DIY jobs – looking up your car model, and the repair you need on YouTube will likely be helpful. Fixing a tire falls into this category too.
- Less straightforward DIY repairs include replacing brake pads and spark plugs. Many cars have sat in garages or driveways while repairs take much longer than expected.
- If you proceed with a DIY repair, useful tools for common repairs include a socket set, pliers, and a torque wrench. You can purchase these tools and replacement parts at Repco, Supercheap Auto or Autobarn.
- Safety is often overlooked – you’ll need to wear safety goggles and gloves, ensure the car is on a level surface, and disconnect the battery before working on electrical components.
- Helpfully, many online resources are available to help car owners with DIY repairs, including websites and YouTube channels that provide step-by-step instructions and tutorials for various repairs.
Know This: While anyone can do some repairs, others require higher expertise and should be left to professionals. This includes repairs like transmission repairs, engine overhauls, and air conditioning repairs.
How much can I save with DIY repairs vs a mechanic?
It depends on the repair – an oil change can save you up to $50 while replacing brake pads can save you up to $300. However, you must value your potential savings against your time, risks and costs of a failed DIY repair.
Frequently Asked Questions
Mechanics can be expensive – to help you plan with confidence, we’ve included a comprehensive section of common questions from Brisbane motorists.
What should I look for in a mechanic’s workshop?
Look for a clean and organised workspace, up-to-date equipment, and a team of experienced and qualified mechanics. You should also look for signs of professionalism, such as a clean uniform and good communication skills. If you’re in any doubt, look at online reviews – any trouble or problems will usually be evidenced in 1-star or 2-star reviews.
Can I negotiate the cost of repairs with a mechanic?
While some mechanics may be willing to negotiate the cost of repairs, it’s important to remember that their prices are based on their expertise, labour costs, and the cost of parts, and then GST is added on top. You can ask for a breakdown of the costs and compare them with other mechanics, but don’t expect to get a significant discount.
How can I tell if my mechanic is trying to rip me off?
While most Brisbane mechanics are honest and professional, some may try to exploit you. Signs of a dishonest mechanic include:
- Recommending unnecessary repairs.
- Providing vague or incomplete information.
- Refusing to show you the old parts.
If you suspect you’re being ripped off, getting a second opinion from another mechanic is best.
How can I save money on car repairs?
You can save money on car repairs by doing some repairs yourself, comparing prices from different mechanics, and purchasing parts from a reputable retailer. Maintaining your car regularly and catching problems early before they become more expensive is also important.
What should I do if I’m not satisfied with the repair work?
Speak to the mechanic or the workshop manager right away to try and resolve the issue. If they can’t or won’t help, you can file a complaint with the Queensland Government who adjudicate on such matters.
How do I know if my car needs a major repair?
If your car is experiencing major problems like engine failure or transmission issues, you may notice warning signs like strange noises, rough idling, or difficulty shifting gears. It’s important to have your car inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Can I still drive my car if it needs a repair?
If your car needs a repair, it’s best to fix it as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Depending on the type of repair needed, driving your car for a short distance may still be safe, but you should avoid driving it for extended periods or at high speeds.
Can I trust a mechanic who recommends additional repairs?
Such recommendations are often based on a mechanic’s expertise and the condition of your car. If you’re unsure if a repair is necessary, you can ask the mechanic to explain the issue in detail and provide a second opinion.
Should I use aftermarket or OEM parts for repairs?
Aftermarket parts are often less expensive than OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts, but they may not be of the same quality or fit as well as OEM parts. OEM parts are specifically designed for your car’s make and model and may come with a warranty from the manufacturer. You should discuss your options with your mechanic and choose the option that best fits your needs and budget.
Should I get a second opinion on a repair quote?
If you’re unsure about a repair quote or feel it’s too expensive, you can always get a second opinion from another mechanic. This can help you ensure that the repairs are necessary and that you get a fair price.
What should I do if my car is under warranty and needs a repair?
Check with the manufacturer or dealership to see if the repair is covered under warranty. If it is, you can repair it by an authorised dealer or mechanic. If the repair is not covered, you can still have it done by an authorised dealer or mechanic, but you will need to pay for it yourself.
Can I ask for a courtesy car while my car is being repaired?
Some mechanics and dealerships offer customers courtesy cars or courtesy vehicles while their cars are being repaired. You can ask if this option is available and if there are any fees or requirements associated with it.
What should I do if I can’t afford a necessary repair?
If you can’t afford a necessary repair, you may be able to work out a payment plan with your mechanic or look for financing options. You can also try to find a mechanic who offers lower prices or discounts for certain repairs. Sometimes, you may need to prioritise repairs based on safety and delay less critical repairs until you can afford them.
Why are mechanics so expensive?
A car is necessary, but maintaining it can be expensive. This is because mechanics are a speciality trade, and a lot of training is required to understand and repair a wide variety of makes and models you see on Australian roads. Beyond the repairs, they also diagnose and recommend parts which require additional time and overhead. By the time you add GST, there are a lot of costs to be passed on.
Which cars are the most expensive to repair?
All cars can cost a lot to repair, but the most expensive are European models (given the price of imported parts), whereas the cheapest are Japanese and Korean.
How am I charged?
Mechanics usually charge by the hour and for the parts needed for the repair. Always ask for a breakdown of the costs. For example, if they tell you the repair will cost $500, ask how much of that is labour and how much is parts, and how much is GST. Make sure all charges are included. Don’t let them quote you only for parts or labour and then surprise you later with a much higher bill than anticipated.
Map of the Best Brisbane Mechanics
Our List of the Best Brisbane Mechanics
Future Auto Service Centres
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.9/5
- Address: 38 Rosedale St, Coopers Plains, 4108
- Website: Future Auto Service Centres
- Contact number: 07 3344 2293
What customers like:
- Thorough and time-efficient service every time.
- Friendly team that makes you feel like you are in safe hands.
- Always take the time to explain all repairs and servicing done in easy-to-understand terms and will answer any questions you may have.
- Great communication.
Services offered (but not limited to): Car servicing, air conditioning, brake repairs, mechanical repairs, safety test reports.
Brisbane Euro Service
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.7/5
- Address: 24 Douglas St, Milton 4064
- Website: Brisbane Euro Service
- Contact number: 07 3368 8700
What customers like:
- Friendly and helpful customer care, fair prices, and quick work turn-around.
- Always honest and tell you what needs to be fixed in the future to keep the car running at its best.
- They will clearly explain the problems and inform, upfront, about the prices to fix each problem.
- Good old-fashioned service at reasonable prices.
Services offered (but not limited to): Log book servicing, brakes, tyres, engine diagnostic, suspension & steering.
Lemans Motors
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.8/5
- Address: 36 Douglas Street, Milton 4064
- Website: Lemans Motors
- Contact number: 07 3369 1374
What customers like:
- Will take the time to answer questions and explain what is going on with your car.
- Affordable pricing for second-to-none service.
- Impressively thorough and communicate every step of the process.
- Firmly committed to excellent customer service.
Services offered (but not limited to): Full range of mechanic services, including general car servicing, logbook car servicing, car repairs, safety/roadworthy certificates, tyres (supplied by tyre solutions), brakes, steering, suspension, clutches, diagnostics, exhausts, air conditioning.
Stouch Mobile Auto and Mechanical
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.9/5
- Address: 2/31 Boyland Ave, Coopers Plains 4108
- Website: Stouch Mobile Auto and Mechanical
- Contact number: 07 3171 3130
What customers like:
- Arrive on time and get straight into the job.
- Go above and beyond to ensure any further problems are identified and fixed.
- For business and personal vehicles, they provide a convenient mobile service wherever you are in Brisbane.
- Same-day response, whether for an alternator failure, faulty door latch mechanism or log book services.
Services offered (but not limited to): Car servicing & logbook servicing, auto electrical work, break down response & battery replacement, fleet maintenance and IVMS, GPS, and telematics, car air conditioning repairs, pre-purchase and roadworthy inspections aftermarket accessories, mine specification installations.
Ray’s Mobile Mechanics
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.9/5
- Address: 9 Slaney Place Aspley Brisbane 4034
- Website: Ray’s Mobile Mechanics
- Contact number: 0417 708 071
What customers like:
- Meticulous, explaining the basics and fixing issues in no time.
- Well-priced and take great pride in their workmanship.
- Honest, hardworking mechanic that’s rare to find in this day and age.
- Family-owned business that provides prompt service at an affordable price.
Services offered (but not limited to): Roadside maintenance, car service and maintenance, brake service, vehicle inspection, tyres change, and mechanical services.
Absolute Car Care
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.8/5
- Address: 113 Norman St, East Brisbane 4169
- Website: Absolute Car Care
- Contact number: 07 3891 0777
What customers like:
- Go above and beyond with anything you need.
- Trustworthy and reliable mechanics who are very thorough and great at ensuring the cars are safe for the road.
- Exceptional service at affordable prices.
- Fantastic operators and very dedicated to their quality of service.
Services offered (but not limited to): Logbook servicing, preventative maintenance, fixed price servicing and diagnostics.
Maxwell Tyre & Mechanical
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.9/5
- Address: 52 Tesch Rd, Griffin 4503
- Website: Maxwell Tyre & Mechanical
- Contact number: 0498 877 017
What customers like:
- Professional and on-time no-fuss service, providing great value for money.
- Proven to be very responsive and easy to deal with.
- Extremely knowledgeable and will explain all the repair options and their cost upfront.
Services offered (but not limited to): Mobile mechanic service, breakdown assist, mechanical repairs, fleet management.
Australian Mechanical
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.8/5
- Address: 73 Pickering Street, Enoggera 4051
- Website: Australian Mechanical
- Contact number: 07 3356 1538
What customers like:
- Delivers nothing but an incredibly positive experience.
- Friendly, knowledgeable staff, providing the best car servicing you could ask for.
- They treat your car as if it were theirs.
- Make the whole process stress-free, informed and a satisfactory experience, from booking in, dropping off, authorising work and collecting the vehicle.
- Trustworthy and consistently provide quality work.
Services offered (but not limited to): Logbook servicing, mechanical repairs, mechanical air conditioning, mechanical auto electrical, mechanical wheels & tyres, mechanical roadworthy inspections, motor dealing, car detailing.
Sparks Mechanical
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~5/5
- Address: 161 Blackwood St., Mitchelton 4053
- Website: Sparks Mechanical
- Contact number: 0422 636 626
What customers like:
- Can expertly identify and fix issues within a couple hours and get the car back in good condition for a fraction of the price and time expected.
- Friendly and very generous with their knowledge.
- Can diagnose a vehicle’s issue correctly over the phone, and the final price is as he had quoted.
- When you collect your car, you will appreciate how he goes into detail to describe the work he has done and show the old parts he replaced.
- Reliable and fair with his pricing.
Services offered (but not limited to): Mobile mechanical service and repairs, breakdown service, air conditioning regas service – mechanical problems, electrical problems, engine repairs, diagnostic, and brake repairs.
AutoKeepers
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~5/5
- Address: 184 Abbotsford Rd Bowen Hills 4006
- Website: AutoKeepers
- Contact number: 07 3547 4952
What customers like:
- Service and transparency will make you feel like you are part of the process as they ensure you understand what is happening.
- Go above and beyond with their service. They will send a detailed email containing pictures of everything they checked, a list of the recommended repairs and the amount for every item.
- Genuine concern for clients.
Services offered (but not limited to): Comprehensive repairs on all vehicle makes and models, including logbook servicing, mechanical, brake & clutch, suspension & steering, testing & tuning, all car servicing, computer diagnostics, and more.
Vulture Street Service Centre
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.8/5
- Address: 197 Vulture St, South Brisbane 4101
- Website: Vulture Street Service Centre
- Contact number: 07 3844 3096
What customers like:
- Provides incredible car service at an excellent price.
- Professional, friendly and fairly priced. You will never experience unexpected charges once the service is done.
- Knowledgeable, friendly, work to a high standard for a very reasonable price.
- They will not try to sell you anything extra or rip you off.
Services offered (but not limited to): Car servicing, mechanical repairs, such as engine repairs or replacement and overheating problems or radiator repairs and replacement, brakes (replacement), new tyres and fitting, existing tyre repair or replacement., batteries, suspension check.
Sampson Automotive
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~5/5
- Address: 3/15 Landy Street, Northgate 4013
- Website: Sampson Automotive
- Contact number: 07 3189 2774
What customers like:
- Delivers time and time again.
- Offer excellent service, quality and fair and honest pricing every time.
- You get nothing but great service, quality work and good value from people who care.
- Customer-focused team who go above and beyond.
Services offered (but not limited to): Logbook servicing on all makes and models, brakes, Ttyres, steering and suspension, air-conditioning servicing and repair, safety certificates, UBER certificate of inspections, trailer safety certificates, pre-purchase inspections, small fleet servicing and maintenance.
Genesis Autoworks
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~5/5
- Address: 1038 Stanley St., East Brisbane 4169
- Website: Genesis Autoworks
- Contact number: 07 3036 7831
What customers like:
- Ensures all faults are carefully checked. Repairs are carried out at a high-quality standard at a great price.
- Exceptional standard of service and customer care with efficient one-person contact for vehicle servicing.
- Superb aftercare and willingness to fulfil additional requests.
- Meticulous and accommodating crew who persist through challenges with older European vehicles.
- Genuine team who communicate clearly about necessary work and expertly solve problems in a cost-effective and timely manner.
Services offered (but not limited to): Mechanic services on most makes and models of passenger cars and light commercial vehicles, which include general servicing work, general car repairs, brake servicing & repairs, clutch replacements, car logbook servicing, roadworthy certificates, pre purchase inspections, wheel alignments, tyre fitting, diagnostic services, air conditioning services (West end), and much more.
JC Automotives
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.9/5
- Address: Unit 1, 11 Breene Place, Morningside, Brisbane 4170
- Website: JC Automotives
- Contact number: 07 3899 9906
What customers like:
- Provide exceptional service and support, even for extensive repairs.
- Honest and reliable service, with quick diagnosis and same-day part replacement.
- Pricing is transparent, reasonable, and competitive, with no hidden costs or surprises.
- Mechanics are highly skilled and professional, consistently delivering quality work and excellent value for money.
Services offered (but not limited to): Log book servicing, diesel fuel system, brake and brake pads, steering and suspension, tyre fitting and balancing, computer diagnostics analysis.
Ralph’s Garage
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.9/5
- Address: 41a Vulture St, West End 4101
- Website: Ralph’s Garage
- Contact number: 07 3846 6036
What customers like:
- Well-deserved reputation for trustworthy and reliable service, with exceptional communication and honesty with their customers.
- Offer competitive pricing, professional work, and excellent communication throughout the process.
- Top-notch team of skilled mechanics who deliver affordable, professional, and friendly service.
- Polite, courteous, and transparent in their work.
Services offered (but not limited to): Logbook and general service, maintenance and cleaning services.
Clarke’s Mobile Auto and Marine
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.9/5
- Address: Bracken Ridge 4017
- Website: Clarke’s Mobile Auto and Marine
- Contact number: 04 379 32 887
- Email: clarkesmobilemechanic@gmail.com
What customers like:
- Can quickly diagnose issues over the phone and arrive on the same day to fix it.
- Their prices are unbeatable for awesome work that will get your car back on the road before you expect it.
- Incredibly accommodating and knowledgeable in identifying the fault and promptly fixing it.
- Competitive rates.
Services offered (but not limited to): Auto mechanic services: repairs and maintenance services for power steering, brake, clutch, engine, gearbox, transmission, car suspension cooling system and many more.
Echelon Automotive
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~5/5
- Address: 1/360 Nudgee Rd, Hendra 4011
- Website: Echelon Automotive
- Contact number: 07 3162 7757
- Mobile Contact Number: 0439 963 000
What customers like:
- Pricing is definitely reasonable for the level of service they offer.
- Provide honest, helpful and first-rate service and advice.
- Very knowledgeable and accommodating staff.
- Will take the time to explain everything.
Services offered (but not limited to): Full mechanical service, new car service under warranty, modifications, accessories, battery check & replacement, brake & clutch service, cooling system service.
Pro Mechanics Brisbane
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.9/5
- Address: 2/1645 Ipswich Rd, Rocklea 4106
- Website: Pro Mechanics Brisbane
- Contact number: 07 3194 6010
What customers like:
- Excellent quality and reasonable prices.
- Polite, kind and genuinely professional.
- Leave your car looking pristine, inside and out, including complimentary services.
Services offered (but not limited to): Full truck, van, and car servicing, tyre replacement and balancing, COIs, RWC certificates, air conditioning servicing, brake repair, suspension repair, starter motors, alternators for cars and trucks, and other mechanical repairs.
David Mullins European Auto Service
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.9/5
- Address: 8 Heussler Terrace, Milton, 4064
- Website: David Mullins Automotive
- Contact number: 07 3172 1456
What customers like:
- Professional, efficient, realistic and affordable.
- No up-selling, and use genuine parts.
- The team is genuine and honest, with all costs advised forthright, highlighting potential issues down the track.
Services offered (but not limited to): European cars mechanical repairs and service, European cars logbook service.
Mobile Mechanic Brisbane
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~5/5
- Address: 949/69 Ann St, Brisbane City 4000
- Website: Mobile Mechanic Brisbane
- Contact number: 07 3171 2092
What customers like:
- Offer affordable services that always work within the customer’s budget.
- Friendly and thorough car service at a great price.
- Reliable, efficient service with very polite staff and transparent pricing from the start.
- Fast response and clear communication.
Services offered (but not limited to): Mobile auto service and repair, brake and clutch, electric tune-ups, diagnostic scan technology, engine lights, alternators, fuel pumps and car batteries, brake pads, timing belts, radiators, water pumps, fan belts, spark plugs, head gaskets, power steering repairs and more.
