Locally owned and operated Preferred Automotive has been offering expert auto maintenance and auto repair in Rockville, Maryland since 1990. Our team of ASE certified mechanics conduct bumper to bumper car care for all makes and models of Asian, European and domestic, cars, trucks, vans and SUVs, including hybrids.
As a NAPA AutoCare Facility, rest assured your vehicle will be treated to the highest quality parts and fluids and all qualifying services are backed by a nationwide warranty. So whether you need an oil change, tire replacement or other general car maintenance, or more complex services, such as brake pad replacement, engine diagnostics or transmission repair, you can trust our crew to get the job done right.
As a NAPA AutoCare Facility, rest assured your vehicle will be treated to the highest quality parts and fluids and all qualifying services are backed by a nationwide warranty. So whether you need an oil change, tire replacement or other general car maintenance, or more complex services, such as brake pad replacement, engine diagnostics or transmission repair, you can trust our crew to get the job done right.
Services
Preferred Automotive is a full service auto repair shop in Rockville that caters to drivers of all foreign and domestic cars, trucks, hybrids and SUVs. To ensure we're able to provide the highest quality car care, our mechanics undergo routine training and ASE re-certification. We've also invested in the latest computer aided diagnostic and repair equipment, ensuring we fix car problems correctly the first time.
They key to a long and healthy road life for any vehicle is preventative auto maintenance. As your dealership alternative, we can perform any services needed by your vehicle to keep it safe and reliable. From routine oil changes to timing belts and transmission services, we really do it all. As a NAPA AutoCare Center we are able to back most services with a nationwide warranty.
If you need new tires in Rockville, MD or the surrounding area, head to Preferred Automotive. Our local tire shop offers quality options from trusted tire brands. We sell and install tires and custom wheels, as well as perform tire repairs and wheel alignments for all makes and models. We're sure to have exactly what you want.
Special Financing Available* on qualifying purchases made with your NAPA EasyPay Credit Card at participating locations nationwide. See store for details. Finance the products and services your vehicle needs to be at its best. Enjoy affordable repayment options that free up your budget and allow you to retain reliable transportation.
Your business is very appreciated. We truly value your feedback as we use this information to help us to continue to improve our customer service, overall performance and your experience when working with us. Preferred Automotive is our preferred car service place to go! We have been going there for a year now and the business and it people are all about your customer satisfaction and car needs!
Reviews (29)
Toteona Gray
Nov 23, 2021
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I would say repair prices are about average. When I checked out my issue over a year ago another person told me about the same cost. However, what I appreciate most if their honesty! They could have not told me the temporary $75 dollar alternative compared to the over $1,000 dollar fix. The fact they even provided me the knowledge that there was a cheaper temporary alternative has instilled trust and I plan to make them my permanent mechanic. Also, they provided information regarding bundling and free warranty for two services that I needed to get done in the near future. They even texted me a
E. Stanley
Nov 15, 2021
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Gary & Todd were highly recommended to me by two separate friends that didn't previously know each other, which I took as a great sign. Todd helped me navigate an extended warranty repair common to my vehicle just after the manufacturer warranty expired. I'll be taking my 5 year old car back to them for all future maintenance, they're like the auto-savvy uncles you wish you had, telling you what you need and what you can defer but may need so you can plan ahead. In my case, they also helped take my car to a nearby shop for sunroof drain repairs (interiors & trim) that they don't do, saving me multiple
David Bergstein
Nov 14, 2021
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During my initial visit to Preferred Automotive, the mechanic provided a detailed diagnosis via web site of the problems identified. Many of these problems were issues that should have been identified by my dealer's service department. Now that these issues have been addressed I have a baseline to rely upon.
During a subsequent visit, my braking system was diagnosed and repaired due to a failing master cylinder. As previously mentioned, a detailed diagnostic report was provided prior to authorizing the repair.
In light of my positive experience with Preferred Automotive, they are my first choice
During a subsequent visit, my braking system was diagnosed and repaired due to a failing master cylinder. As previously mentioned, a detailed diagnostic report was provided prior to authorizing the repair.
In light of my positive experience with Preferred Automotive, they are my first choice
Maria Frisone
Oct 31, 2021
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Very friendly and professional service. They give an itemized list that contains pictures and details about repairs. The list is coordinated in red, yellow, and green in ascending order of importance. This really helped me prioritize the necessities and understand potential future maintenance for my vehicle. For someone who is not that car savvy, this is the best business model I have seen. Kind and accommodating staff, will be returning for future repairs.
Katherine Jank
Oct 25, 2021
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Positive: Professionalism, Punctuality, Quality, Value
Gary and the team were so friendly and great! They saw me VERY last minute to help me with a tire situation and even took the time to say hello to my dog and tell me about how I can save money buying my tires there versus at tirerack.com! I will definitely go back!
Service:Â Tires
Gary and the team were so friendly and great! They saw me VERY last minute to help me with a tire situation and even took the time to say hello to my dog and tell me about how I can save money buying my tires there versus at tirerack.com! I will definitely go back!
Service:Â Tires
Evan Rhodes
Sep 22, 2021
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Positive: Professionalism, Punctuality, Quality, Value
I can't say enough good things about Preferred Automotive. You can tell these people are passionate about what they do, and value their customers. They're timely and extremely detailed. I'd recommend that anybody looking for an automotive shop go here.
I can't say enough good things about Preferred Automotive. You can tell these people are passionate about what they do, and value their customers. They're timely and extremely detailed. I'd recommend that anybody looking for an automotive shop go here.
Sergio Ramos
Sep 02, 2021
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Josie Lindsey
Aug 27, 2021
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I highly recommend taking your car to Preferred Automotive! They were honest, timely, and professional when I took my used car in for the state inspection. They do inspections in the morning, so I had to take some time off of work to get in. But they made sure it was done as quickly as possible and were even able to squeeze in the needed repairs the same day! I am very happy with their service, even proving lunch recommendations for nearby their shop. I will be returning for future repairs!
Ann L.
Aug 22, 2021
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Wendy Gillick
Aug 15, 2021
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Deborah Bortot
Jul 23, 2021
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Positive: Professionalism, Punctuality, Quality
They keep my car, which has over 100,000 miles, running like new. They are incredibly knowledgeable and skilled in working with older cars. I was really impressed when they recently were able to get me most of my money back on a repair utilizing an extended warranty available from a tuneup.
Services: General repairs & maintenance, Brakes, Tuning
They keep my car, which has over 100,000 miles, running like new. They are incredibly knowledgeable and skilled in working with older cars. I was really impressed when they recently were able to get me most of my money back on a repair utilizing an extended warranty available from a tuneup.
Services: General repairs & maintenance, Brakes, Tuning
Christopher K.
Sep 03, 2020
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The guys at Preferred were great. I called about an oil change, figuring I'd have to make an appointment. They told me to come on in right away. They did the oil change and upsold me on a couple of things that I really needed anyway, so I consented. They told me my tires were getting to the end of their life, but didn't need to be replaced right away. That's always a good sign you're not getting taken - at least in my book. I think it was a little expensive, so I didn't go the full 5 stars. I'm new to town, so finding an honest, friendly mechanic who won't poke
Douglas V.
Jun 12, 2020
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My first time ever going to Preferred Automotive was excellent, for my first time ever going to a mechanic shop on my own. The shop was clean or well laid out, the area around the shop wasn't crowded, and the employees were friendly.
Preferred Automotive kept everything cool and organized to understand the ins and outs for those who aren't versed in the automotive mechanics world.
I had the pleasure of speaking with Todd, a representative of Preferred Automotive, and he was very attentive from the beginning, kept a line of communication open, provided clear details of what needs to
Preferred Automotive kept everything cool and organized to understand the ins and outs for those who aren't versed in the automotive mechanics world.
I had the pleasure of speaking with Todd, a representative of Preferred Automotive, and he was very attentive from the beginning, kept a line of communication open, provided clear details of what needs to
Love L.
May 03, 2020
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I have an old Volvo that needed new brakes. After a full inspection they found some a lot of other issues that needed to be addressed. They were great at breaking down what needed to be done right away and what could wait to be fixed. They listened to my input, and fixed what I asked. They also checked in on me after to make sure everything was working well. Definitely will be back, and recommending them to everyone I know.
Jessica A.
Jan 07, 2020
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I'm surprised folks think these guys are knowledgeable, when they do all diagnostics using a computer and only use one brand of products (Valvoline). They told me my car need over $1000 worth of work because I had a leaky gasket. When It only needed to be cleaned. It wasn't leaking, it was just crude buildup after 120k on the car. I went to Dobson's Shell and they charged me $168.
Oh and they forgot to reset their app, so when I went to pick up my car, all the lights on the dashboard were flashing.
And though we talked about doing an oil change, I thought they would only do it if
Oh and they forgot to reset their app, so when I went to pick up my car, all the lights on the dashboard were flashing.
And though we talked about doing an oil change, I thought they would only do it if
Amir S.
Dec 06, 2019
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This mechanic should be your most trusted for any problem. The team are clearly experts and are very helpful. They fixed a problem with my wife's VWs AC that the VW dealer failed to solve twice. One time I brought my truck to fix an odd issue and the mechanic took a quick look and let me know that for them to troubleshoot it it would cost a good amount. The mechanic gave me an honest recommendation to fix it at home that worked! Such honesty in a mechanic is refreshing. Other times they have fixed complicated problems for me quickly. They also send me coupons regularly. Best in the area
Benjamin S.
Nov 28, 2019
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I always bring my car to Preferred Automotive when it needs work. Gary and Todd are friendly and, most importantly, honest and straightforward. I appreciate their explanations of my options, especially of what can wait and what is more urgent when I am thinking of my budget. I definitely plan return next time my car needs work.
D. S.
May 10, 2019
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I plan to be bringing my vehicles to Preferred Automotive for as long as I live in the area. From the moment I walked in the door for an oil change and a check engine light, Gary and his team displayed incredible integrity and professionalism, and I watched them treat every single customer that came in with the utmost respect.
My car needs work, and will probably need work continuously until it is replaced. Gary was straightforward and honest with me, but he was not interested in the hard sell for repairs that could wait. He was interested in meeting my needs to have my car useable again, and
My car needs work, and will probably need work continuously until it is replaced. Gary was straightforward and honest with me, but he was not interested in the hard sell for repairs that could wait. He was interested in meeting my needs to have my car useable again, and
Alicia C.
May 03, 2019
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During our trip down to Hilton Head from NYC, we heard a funny noise coming from our car all of sudden. Lucky enough we pulled over and ended up at Preferred Automotive. Thank god we did! Not only did Todd quickly take a look at the car but end up finding a bag that had gotten stuck in the front by the engine which was causing the noise. Todd was so nice and welcoming and absolutely expected nothing in return for the work he did. I would recommend this place for those living near by and anyone facing car issues on a road trip passing through! Thanks again!
Ericka L.
Feb 26, 2019
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David S.
Feb 18, 2019
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Car repair service done right! From the moment you walk in and are greeted by the owner, to the time of picking up your vehicle, you know exactly what's going on. Amazing friendly, courteous service with the customer in mind. Gary and his crew fixed my front end within a day and also did a vehicle inspection which identified other potential issues. There was absolutely no pressure sales for additional work, but just a way of letting their customers know the current condition of the vehicle. You will receive updates over the day on your service. When it's time to close the order, they
Andrew W.
Jul 23, 2018
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TLDR: They are honest and competent. My perception is that they have enough business to not feel any pressure to sell work that is unnecessary and not in the best interests of the customer.
I left my car in their care on the recommendation of both my brother and my wife. My brother selected this place due in large part to their online reviews/reputation.
My car had been making a rattling noise and so I took the car in to be serviced. I received a call a short time later letting me know that they had identified where the rattling noise was coming from and a few other maintenance items I should
I left my car in their care on the recommendation of both my brother and my wife. My brother selected this place due in large part to their online reviews/reputation.
My car had been making a rattling noise and so I took the car in to be serviced. I received a call a short time later letting me know that they had identified where the rattling noise was coming from and a few other maintenance items I should
Christina B.
May 31, 2018
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These guys have been servicing my car for over 3 years and I have no complaints. The entire staff is friendly and honest; they are not there to take advantage of you. They have kept my car in pristine condition and I couldn't imagine taking it anywhere else. They are a little more pricey than the competition, but the long-run benefits for your car are worth it.
Victoria D.
May 18, 2018
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Visited for an oil change- they were friendly, professional, and got it done on time. Didn't pressure when they called to inform me of other suggested work. It was a good experience, but it was pricey. I came here because it's walking distance to work and has good reviews, but I probably won't be back. Here a synthetic oil change cost me $92, my last synthetic oil change was only $35 at another shop..
Philip W.
May 10, 2018
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Last week on my way to work the dreaded orange engine light appeared on my dashboard. Being newer to this area, I quickly Googled "best mechanic near me" and came across Preferred Automotive. Before 8:00 a.m. I made a call, expecting to leave a voicemail, but instead was greeted by Todd's friendly and helpful voice. I explained what I thought might be wrong but admitted I have no automotive knowledge and just spent an arm and a leg at the dealer to get something else replaced.
Todd told me I could bring the car in anytime that day and that someone from the shop would drive me back
Todd told me I could bring the car in anytime that day and that someone from the shop would drive me back
Ryan R.
Feb 14, 2018
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Jane C.
Oct 24, 2017
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I've been here twice for two separate issues with my car and each time I have been satisfied with the work. Todd and Mike are very pleasant and they answered all my questions honestly and were very knowledgeable.
They are transparent and fair and the quality of work is excellent. I am glad that I used them and will refer them to anyone looking for a great mechanic.
They are transparent and fair and the quality of work is excellent. I am glad that I used them and will refer them to anyone looking for a great mechanic.
Jess S.
Oct 12, 2017
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I scheduled an appointment a week in advance for a check engine light. The man I spoke to on the phone was very kind and professional. When I dropped my car off, they confirmed all of my information from the call to make sure they could reach me after the diagnostic.
About 2 or so hours later, someone called me to let me know what work needed to be done. I told him I would have to hold off on that for now until I have the money. He did not try to pressure me to get a line of credit or anything that several other shops have pushed me to apply for in the past. He very kindly said that it was not
About 2 or so hours later, someone called me to let me know what work needed to be done. I told him I would have to hold off on that for now until I have the money. He did not try to pressure me to get a line of credit or anything that several other shops have pushed me to apply for in the past. He very kindly said that it was not
Dhaval P.
Sep 05, 2017
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I have been taking my old 2000 BMW 323i to Preferred Automotive since I moved to Maryland about five years ago. I have kept the car for sentimental reasons, until, finally, the serpentine belt and tensioners broke down. As usual, I had the car towed to Preferred Automotive.
Although the costs to repair the car were no longer worth it, they let me keep the car on the premise until I had a plan of action. I worked with Todd and he was great at coordinating keeping the car on the lot until I could get it removed. The entire staff was amazing, professional, and helpful. Knowing my situation, they
Although the costs to repair the car were no longer worth it, they let me keep the car on the premise until I had a plan of action. I worked with Todd and he was great at coordinating keeping the car on the lot until I could get it removed. The entire staff was amazing, professional, and helpful. Knowing my situation, they
