We are offering contactless service in addition to in person drop off. We want you and your car safe and secure in the coming months. With 35 years in the auto repair business we do our best to show our customers a commitment to honesty, service, quality repairs, and automotive safety. For over thirty years Charles Edwards and Kent Knudson have served the Northshore communities providing service, care, and dependability.
Locally owned and operated we are here to keep you and your vehicle road safe and performance-ready. The Auto Doctor bring experience and certified skills to jobs from classic cars to everyday maintenance. Come see us for your daily drivers, collectible vehicles, and small engine repairs. As a certified Continental and General tire deal The Auto Doctor can equip your vehicle with the best in all season, summer, winter, and performance tires.
Locally owned and operated we are here to keep you and your vehicle road safe and performance-ready. The Auto Doctor bring experience and certified skills to jobs from classic cars to everyday maintenance. Come see us for your daily drivers, collectible vehicles, and small engine repairs. As a certified Continental and General tire deal The Auto Doctor can equip your vehicle with the best in all season, summer, winter, and performance tires.
Services
Charlie and Kent opened their first shop on Dewey Ave. in Evanston only a few short feet from their current location. Moving to Foster Ave. the Auto Doctor expanded their service and continued to provide quality repairs to a quickly growing customer base in Evanston and the North Shore. In 2006 the Auto Doctor expanded once again to their current location on Ashland Ave. in Evanston.
Bringing you experienced ASE certified technicians and owners who are proud members of the local community. Thirty plus years of small business experience in Evanston. Charlie Edwards and Kent Knudson have over 40 years of experience in auto repair and they are passionate about keeping you and your car on the road.
The Auto Doctor provides complimentary drop-off/pick-up service to the Purple Line El Train and the Metra. Within a few minutes of the shop we are also happy to provide drop-off/pick-up service at your workplace. Yes, if your car requires more extensive repairs we have complimentary loaner vehicles available.
Reviews (26)
Doug M.
Dec 20, 2021
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Judy Levan
Nov 30, 2021
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Positive:Â Professionalism
I had a problem passing emissions. They were very friendly, explained the possible reasons for the issue in detail and were able to remedy the situation right away. They even took the car over to the testing site for me where my car was able to pass this time. The pricing was very fair. I will bring my car to them from now on.
I had a problem passing emissions. They were very friendly, explained the possible reasons for the issue in detail and were able to remedy the situation right away. They even took the car over to the testing site for me where my car was able to pass this time. The pricing was very fair. I will bring my car to them from now on.
Maya M.
Nov 22, 2021
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Barbara Blough
Nov 01, 2021
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Get comfortable, because I have a story to tell!
I have been a consistent customer of Rolf’s on Dempster in Evanston, IL, for over 20 years. I was not aware of the change in ownership this spring, so when I brought my car in the first time, I was naturally apprehensive. But I needn’t have worried. I received excellent advice and the same reliable service I had grown to take for granted from Rolf’s. THEN, this fall, when I stopped by to see if they could do the factory recall on my 2016 VW Jetta, they referred me to the dealership because the dealership would be authorized to do it for free
I have been a consistent customer of Rolf’s on Dempster in Evanston, IL, for over 20 years. I was not aware of the change in ownership this spring, so when I brought my car in the first time, I was naturally apprehensive. But I needn’t have worried. I received excellent advice and the same reliable service I had grown to take for granted from Rolf’s. THEN, this fall, when I stopped by to see if they could do the factory recall on my 2016 VW Jetta, they referred me to the dealership because the dealership would be authorized to do it for free
Brian Prokop
Sep 16, 2021
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Jeremy Wrenn
Aug 07, 2021
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Won't be going back. My experience with them before their move/merger was a better one.
Took my Jeep in and explained that my brakes were squeaking. Brought it in at 7:30 AM as discussed. Had to call around 2 PM after I hadn't heard anything, and they hadn't looked at it yet. Turns out I needed new rear brakes, but my Jeep wouldn't be done that day. Picked it up the next day and....my brakes still squeaked.
Made an appointment for the following Monday. Brought it in at 7:30 again. Call near lunch time stated that the front brakes were still 50% but were what was causing the squeaking. They took
Took my Jeep in and explained that my brakes were squeaking. Brought it in at 7:30 AM as discussed. Had to call around 2 PM after I hadn't heard anything, and they hadn't looked at it yet. Turns out I needed new rear brakes, but my Jeep wouldn't be done that day. Picked it up the next day and....my brakes still squeaked.
Made an appointment for the following Monday. Brought it in at 7:30 again. Call near lunch time stated that the front brakes were still 50% but were what was causing the squeaking. They took
Kristie Walstrum
Jul 31, 2021
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We had a great experience with the team. We brought our van with a battery draining issue. Upon drop off they did a quick test to determine the battery and alternator were not the issue, so they would have to do some digging. When I learned of a suggestion from a dealer about a potential source of the issue, the team went back and was able to fix the issue and saved me a trip to the dealer and got me out the door same day with the issue solved. I appreciate their work and will be back.
Patricia Cochran
Jul 30, 2021
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Positive: Professionalism, Punctuality, Quality, Value
I've been using the folks at Auto Doctor for years, before they joined forces with Rolf's. I've always had the best service, at best prices (much lower than a dealership!), and a discussion ahead of time about when needed service should be performed. I trust them entirely!
Service:Â Tires
I've been using the folks at Auto Doctor for years, before they joined forces with Rolf's. I've always had the best service, at best prices (much lower than a dealership!), and a discussion ahead of time about when needed service should be performed. I trust them entirely!
Service:Â Tires
Valerie Yudell
Feb 27, 2021
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I called Auto Doctor in a panic after my car did not pass it’s emissions test and it was almost the end of the month. They got me in the next morning and said they would do their best to figure out what was causing the issue. They had it done and passed the test a few hours later. 10/10 I will be telling everyone to come to you! Thank you!!!!
Pat Navin
Oct 04, 2020
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Georg S.
May 22, 2020
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Lauren M.
Nov 21, 2019
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Jk B.
Jun 04, 2019
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My tire had a slow leak and I had no idea where to go. Thanks to a quick google search, I found The Auto Doctor just a 3-minute drive from home. They quickly removed the screw from my tread and patched the tire, and I was on the way to work in a half hour. Super friendly and easy to work with - highly recommend!
Angela N.
Mar 31, 2019
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I really am thankful to these guys for helping me out big time last week when my sliding car door decided to unexpectantly break at the car wash up the street. I was afraid to drive too far with the door not shutting. Luckily, I got to their shop. They were so nice and incredibly helpful taking care of my car situation. Since I was stranded, one of the guys dropped me back off at my house so I didn't have to uber. That was so nice.
It took about a day to get it back to working like it used to. They explained to me the mechanics of how the door operated and what parts were needed to remedy
It took about a day to get it back to working like it used to. They explained to me the mechanics of how the door operated and what parts were needed to remedy
F. L.
Apr 22, 2018
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Just a warning, if you failed your emissions testing and go here, be aware that they will charge you to fix it AND to take it back to the emissions testing to ensure it passes. When I asked if I can just take it myself they said that wasn't an option because apparently some people leave their gas tank open which results in a fail. They said "that's the state's rules", but when I called the IllinoisAirTeam they said of course I can take it back myself. Also, the cost to bring it back was "included" already so I couldn't NOT be charged for that...? The total
Teal R.
Sep 15, 2016
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Robin R.
Sep 12, 2016
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James L.
Nov 06, 2015
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Rachel T.
Aug 23, 2015
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These guys are fabulous - They have worked on several cars of mine and friends and always been quite helpful. If its busy they tell you and if you are willing to ask questions they are willing to sit and explain everything in detail - something I have always appreciated. Also ast time I had tires but on a car they reccomended the Continentals they sell and while i ahd some sticker shock at the price I did it anyway - - - and I could not have been happier I drove frequently long trips in terrible weather and the tires performed great - i don't think I have ever been happier that I was convinced
Tom O.
Aug 19, 2014
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I'm a long time Evanston resident with a few cars that are off warranty. My biggest pet peeve in getting them worked on is that the shop ALWAYS seems to find more work to do than expected.
I tried The Auto Doctor on a friend's recommendation, and let me tell you I was impressed.
There were three things that the car needed - and exhaust/muffler problem, some ominous clunking from the rear wheels on sharp turns, and a really soft brake pedal.
I was thinking new exhaust/muffler, new front brakes (at least) and new wheel bearing(s) for the rear.
Turns out the exhaust problem was simple
I tried The Auto Doctor on a friend's recommendation, and let me tell you I was impressed.
There were three things that the car needed - and exhaust/muffler problem, some ominous clunking from the rear wheels on sharp turns, and a really soft brake pedal.
I was thinking new exhaust/muffler, new front brakes (at least) and new wheel bearing(s) for the rear.
Turns out the exhaust problem was simple
Jenn P.
Jun 14, 2014
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Eric D.
Dec 27, 2011
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I've been taking first our Civic and Passat here for about 10 years. They have made a couple of mistakes along the way (such as putting in the wrong radiator fluid), but they have always been quick to fix the problem. I always feel like I'm treated fairly and they're not doing unnecessary work. The prices are comparable to the other independent repair shops I've used, and definitely cheaper than the dealers. Plus, Kent are Charley are just great guys to chat with.
Robin K.
Aug 10, 2011
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These guys were quick! They were able to get me in the same day, find out what was wrong (unfortunately it was my air compressor), order a new one and install it. All within about 7 hours!
Kent was calm and helpful. While at times he glazed over things and moved a bit quickly for me as a car novice when asked questions he took the time to explain. AND after my online research raised questions and I brought them to him turned out he had already done all of the things that were suggested. I felt like he was honest and fair. Overall, I made out for about $1200 on the repairs when most people online
Kent was calm and helpful. While at times he glazed over things and moved a bit quickly for me as a car novice when asked questions he took the time to explain. AND after my online research raised questions and I brought them to him turned out he had already done all of the things that were suggested. I felt like he was honest and fair. Overall, I made out for about $1200 on the repairs when most people online
Rev Marian H.
May 18, 2010
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These guys are the best! They've been taking wonderful care of my cars for over a dozen years now -- with accurate estimates, honesty and their quirky senses of humor. I actually look forward to oil changes and getting my car serviced! They even assisted me with my last car purchase, and it's purring along beautifully.
You can't go wrong with Kent and Charlie and Wally (and all the other guys) at The Auto Doctor.
You can't go wrong with Kent and Charlie and Wally (and all the other guys) at The Auto Doctor.
Judy M.
Mar 16, 2009
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After my clutch crapped out in the middle of Foster, when the AAA lady asked where I wanted it towed, since I don't have a mechanic I arbitrarily picked the Auto Doctor. I am so glad I did.
Amazingly, someone was still there at 7:30 at night doing paperwork, even though they closed at 5:30. I lucked out with that one. I explained what happened and he quickly figured out the problem, said I would probably need either a new master or slave for my hydraulic clutch, and not a whole new clutch, and said they'd call with an estimate in the morning.
It turned out I needed a new slave cylinder
Amazingly, someone was still there at 7:30 at night doing paperwork, even though they closed at 5:30. I lucked out with that one. I explained what happened and he quickly figured out the problem, said I would probably need either a new master or slave for my hydraulic clutch, and not a whole new clutch, and said they'd call with an estimate in the morning.
It turned out I needed a new slave cylinder
Brent J.
Apr 12, 2008
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I'm a big fan of my long-time mechanic Bob Woyner, who joined Auto Doctor in the past year or so. He has serviced my cars (a Jeep, a minivan, a Miata, and an Infiniti) for over 10 years. He always leaves me confident that he knows his stuff and that he is treating me fairly. On several occasions he has recommended less expensive remedies than I had expected.
I give Bob himself five stars. There's nothing wrong with his place of employment either, but I can't give the overall establishment the highest rating for two reasons. First, it's not convenient to any public transportation
I give Bob himself five stars. There's nothing wrong with his place of employment either, but I can't give the overall establishment the highest rating for two reasons. First, it's not convenient to any public transportation
