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German Formula Auto Repair
100 NE 11th Ave, Portland, OR 97232, United States
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German Formula Auto Repair

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Ro
Review №1

German Formula recently replaced my clutch, starter, radiator reservoir, and rear main seal on my 1999 Porsche 911. Jonathan send me pictures of the entire process and keep me informed on a daily basis regarding progress. After completion, he personally introduced me to Justin, the mechanic and they explained to me the process. There were NO surprises regarding the price and I will never take my car to anyone else because of their honesty and their pricing. When you own a Porsche 911 there are always shops out there that will take advantage of you, this however, is not one of them. They are upfront and honest, which these days are very rare!

Lo
Review №2

Needed to find a place that could work on my work van, as the issues I was having had been repaired by another shop 3 other times. Everyone was friendly, professional, knowledgeable, and FAST! My van is running AWESOME, and I love that they were upfront about time and cost, from the get-go! Will ALWAYS bring my business to these guys, from here on out!

Co
Review №3

Oil change on my Porsche Boxster. No attitude like the dealership. They have a customer for life with me

Mi
Review №4

This is a pretty simple review. Jonathan and Nic provided excellent service at a great price. I’ll be back for all of my Audi and VW service needs. AWESOME shop!

Te
Review №5

Cant speak highly enough of the crew at German Formula. The service quality far exceeded my experiences with the local MB dealerships. With German Formula, explanations were always very detailed and included pictures of what they were talking about. Thanks for the great work!

Fr
Review №6

Great shop, very happy to have found them from other Porsche owners when we relocated here. Just had the 40k service on my Macan S and could not be happier. They discovered a mouse habitat in the engine compartment and took care of the issue and replaced the wiring as needed. The car runs like the day I took delivery. Great shop and recommended.

Ma
Review №7

Took our Sprinter van for a check engine light and they accurately diagnosed and quoted a price for repair. The shop was great about explaining what needed to be fixed, really breaking down the different costs, and answering all our questions. They sent pictures to us throughout the repair and really made us feel like our van was in good hands! They also made suggestions about things that could be replaced now to save on future labor costs in a way that didnt feel like we were being taking advantage of.Well definitely be repeat customers! Recommended 100%

Ke
Review №8

It shouldnt be the case that you have to search far and wide for a quality and trustworthy mechanic, but unfortunately a lot of us do so while wasting precious time and money.German Formula has all of the qualities that you could hope for in a car shop. Resourceful, communicative, stand by their word, do good work, and efficient. Obviously there is more, but these stuck out to me. I will be returning to this shop. I encourage you to call to set up an appointment and give them a shot!

De
Review №9

Above and Beyond Service!!!!JJ is the man!!! Amazing communication via texts throughout the total repair process. Great value of price and service. I prepaid for the repair through Snap! and the actual cost was below what I paid and JJ refunded the extra money back to my CC. Only, great repair shops do that, most will figure out a way to keep it or bill for xtra work to get more money out of you. I’ll be a customer for life.

Da
Review №10

I called the shop asking for a quote for a flywheel and clutch. They got me in the same day and gave me a call about an hour or so later confirming it needed a new clutch and flywheel. With them giving me the final number I gave them the go ahead. My car was ready he next day in the night. This shops sends lots of photos of the process and explains things as needed. This is definitely my new go to for my car and m,y family when it will be needed. I highly recommend this shop.

Ly
Review №11

Our charging system on our 2003 Mercedes quit in Portland after an 1800 mile trip from Iowa. They got us right in and repaired even though they were busy. I highly recommend them and will use them again if I need help in Portland.

D'
Review №12

Excellent communication and customer service. Jonathan explained every step of the process, sent pics, timely updates and described every step of the process. They did a complete engine swap for us. I highly recommend this shop. They go above and beyond!

Lo
Review №13

I purchased a used Sprinter and had scant information available about its service. It had gone into limp mode on my way back from a trip I was worried I may have been had by the previous owner. I emailed in and got an appointment very quickly given the busy summer service season on these (Another place said they could get me in in 2 months). I brought it in for them to check it out. Thier staff checked it out quickly and came back to me with recommended fixes and a very fair price break down. They walked me through the process, sent me updates including pictures of thier progress all the way through. I had a lot of work that needed done and as with any auto thats high mileage things came up. When they did I was given a full breakdown of my options both over the phone and direct text.The most recognizable situation of their level of service(and there were many): The engines fuel injectors were leaking and could have caused major damage to the head. This also caused them to be fused in. They took the careful and deliberate time to extract them slowly to mitigate the risks of additional costs and or damage. They were also kind enough to help me out with some additional labor when a fix turned to a replacement to help me stay within my budget. Cannot say enough good things especially about Jonathan. Go here if you need work done.

Ch
Review №14

I appreciated the communication level and the extra time the took to help me with a question I had about my tire wear.

Di
Review №15

I found German Formula very expensive for repairs. For example I needed a new battery for my 2011 Boxstar. They charged me $220 for labor which was almost the same price as the battery itself.

To
Review №16

Trust is something that is earned. These guys earned my trust. I had my Sprinter misdiagnosed by a MB dealer so my problem persisted after a visit to a dealer out of the area. Jonathan and crew got it diagnosed and fixed right and in the process earned my trust to bring it back to them for my future repairs and maintenance. Thanks guys!

Fo
Review №17

Jonathan was very communicative, prompt and thorough with the service.

ey
Review №18

They tried to over charge me .

Sc
Review №19

Fantastic service for my VW Touareg, always provides great advice and solid work!

Ti
Review №20

Craft auto repair and maintenance. They solve problems in less time for affordable rates the dealership only dreams about.

Br
Review №21

I called around to get my car fixed, and while their pricing wasnt the absolute lowest (though close!), I knew the moment I began speaking to them that I had the right place. I know a tiny bit about cars and had pulled the error codes my P.O.S. Jetta was complaining about before calling. When I do this, Ill either get mechanics talking to me like I know 0% about cars or 100% about cars. Jonathan must have sensed as much as I knew and kept the conversation within my comprehension (he even making suggestions on better diagnostic approaches!). I took my P.O.S. in and instantly knew I was in good hands. They fixed the problem, let me know of the other should-probably-fix-soon problems I had (as Jonathan put it: hard sales from a mechanic is a level of extortion), and when I arrived, they showed me the the problem (which had multiple shoddy fixes of my former mechanic who is no longer in business).In short: you might find a marginally cheaper mechanic for your German made autos, but I doubt you will find the value, INTEGRITY, and generally rad people here at this business. I have a P.O.S. so I know I will be seeing them again, but even if you have a fine automobile, this is the place to get it serviced or fixed.

13
Review №22

Called about sourcing a part for my 2010 Jetta. Was having some extremely funky issues with my turn signals. Justin was very helpful and patient as we looked up potential part numbers.Got lucky on this one and solved the issue by scrubbing some of the contacts on the steering column board before ordering the $1,000 replacement; but will absolutely be in contact with these guys the next time Im in too deep on the VW.Thanks!

Me
Review №23

Tad bit expensive but very good service!!! 👍

Be
Review №24

Competitive pricing and great service. I wouldnt take my car anywhere else.

Ra
Review №25

Excellent quality. Very good service, product properly packaged. Best price as well. Happy Service

Al
Review №26

Having a VW bug every car thing can just be a big old pain in the but. But I walked into here to get my headlight fixed and everyone was so nice! They fixed it up really quickly and put on my front license plate for me, and it was all a really good price! I highly recommend them!

Pa
Review №27

Brought my Audi Q5 in with what I thought was just the timing chain and tensioner needed replaced but found out there was a lot more wrong with the engine including cylinder 2 leaking and needing head gasket repairs, carbon build up amongst others. Throughout the process Jonathon kept me informed via email and pictures of what being done which was very helpful since I was in Mexico on my honeymoon. The detail that he went into on the emails as well as photos showing everything was amazing and not what you typically get from Mechanics. The Tech Justin once he got everything done checked the rest of the engine and found that the balance shaft had been stretched as well. It could have still worked but he replaced it without cost and labor just to make sure the engine would not fault. Overall the job was a lot more work than originally thought but they kept it within a reasonable budget and the job ended up costing me about the same as Audi wanted to change only the timing chain and tensioner. Greatly appreciate their hard work and honesty through the process and I would recommend them to anyone needed work done

S
Review №28

Description of problems was not clear.

Ja
Review №29

I called Formula today to inquire / explain a problem I was having with a code being thrown on my 2007 Audi A4. As I was explaining the issue I was having with P-0299 underboost the man on the phone interrupted me and after I asked his level of familiarity with that code - he said “sure” and then asked me in a rude tone “so what is the question”. So - I repeated the question. He then blatantly told me that I am probably wasting his time, and hung up on me. This code is a problem I’ve been dealing with for a while so I wanted to explain the nature of the problem and if he could help - but he never gave me the chance and hung up the phone. I’m sure these guys do great work but I was shocked to say the least with the lack of customer service to a prospective customer who was in need of help. This is the literal first bad review I’ve ever felt inclined to write & I wish I had the experience of some of the 5 star reviews I’m reading because I do indeed need help on this and will be looking elsewhere now if the way they speak / treat their prospects is anything like the way they treat clients.

jo
Review №30

Surprisingly thorough and detailed communication including articulate explanations, photo and video documentation throughout the whole process. Impressive!

Jo
Review №31

Ralf and his staff are knowledgeable,always friendly and helpful. I have total confidence and trust in them. The quality of workmanship has always been excellent. Service is way above the normal standard. If I need a ride to or from the shop they always will take me to where I have to go. Would never consider taking my car anywhere else.All the friends I have referred to German Formula feel the same way.A very happy costumer of 20 some years.

Be
Review №32

Dan and Jay at German Formula have gone above and beyond to assist us and we highly recommend the shop. They provided excellent customer service and quality repairs for our 80s Mercedes. We used the shop several years ago for a different car and had the same experience then!

Au
Review №33

Always speedy & quality service

Gr
Review №34

Several months back German Formula diagnosed a bizarre problem on our Porsche. It sounded like an engine issue, rough clicking noise, and I was informed the engine cover may need to be removed. A large expense. As it turned out, the spark plugs were loose! Tightened up and rattle disappeared. Grateful GF was upfront and fixed the real problem, for a reasonable price. Still runs and drives great.

or
Review №35

I could not possibly be more pleased to have found German Formula. I was visiting Portland for the Thanksgiving holiday when my Mercedes showed a check engine light just as I was ready to hit the road on a chilly and late Friday afternoon. As I arrived, the guys were just about to close but they not only were kind enough to let me in, they listened, got my car hooked up to their thingamajig and run a quick diagnostic. It turned out that what triggered the light to come on was related to sensors that had just been replaced by my regular mechanic shop at home. They agreed that it would be safe for me to drive the car back to the original repair shop but gave me tips as to what I needed to look for in the event more serious issues developed and with a kind smile wished me a safe return home, did not charge anything for the service and refused a tip.My regular mechanic charges me almost $200 to run diagnostics. He fixed an issue and two weeks later the light was on again so there was another diagnostics fee to let me know that the original repair should have replaced two sensors, not just one but he was trying to save -me- money. These were the same sensors that were now triggering the light to come on again.I was so, so impressed with the entire operation at German Formula that I decided to stick around PDX and on Monday I brought my car in for basic oil change an a couple other things that were needed.The oil change was half of what I have normally been charged and my car has been running beautifully.I found the new home for my car needs and am sending all my friends there.Thank you guys. You have the same mentality and standards I try to apply to my own business and customer service.Keep doing that. It goes a long way in this crazy world we live in.BTW, I am Hispanic and after 40 years in USA, it seems to be more infrequent to be offered this kind of service and respect.

Da
Review №36

Nothing but good things to say about German Formula. Excellent car care and the mechanics are very skilled as well as very qualified to do the work on what ever your car needs. The entire staff as well as the owner are very personable and willing to serve your needs in a friendly yet professional manner. I also feel this shop is honest about what they do and have your best interest at heart unlike other shops I have gone to in the past. Thanks to everyone there for doing a good job.

Ga
Review №37

Great convenient location. Quick in and out. Efficient. Downside: had to pay just S of $50 for a diagnosis that would have been free in this instance (recall from manufacturer) Upside: keep an eye on the integrity of the dealer. Another upside: they were honest and did not undertake a solution that was a warranty issue.

Ia
Review №38

Bad bad place to go-unless you are rich and have money to throw away! $380 is what i gave them and all i got done(supposedly)to my car was some new spark plugs(probably used)! Next time(and i cant belive im saying this) Ill just take my car to the dealership! German Formula inc. taught me a hard lesson! Im almost positive a set of new spark plugs doesnt cost $380! Oh well!

Jo
Review №39

Great service and reasonable price.Super service. Expertly fitted. Looks really good. Sprinter Store of Portland Was a great 🙂

Ro
Review №40

If you have a german car, this place offers an alternative to going to the dealership. They do not have all of the Audi diagnostic machines, but at least they are honest. Workmanship is first rate.

Da
Review №41

The team at German Formula were absolutely incredible. We can not express enough how grateful we are for the quality service, attention to detail, care and compassion we received from these folks. After 13 hours of driving from Canada our car broke down and we were afraid of what would happen to our vacation. These amazing mechanics literally saved our trip. Not only did they do an excellent job fixing our car in a timely way, they even let us use their internet and phone to sort out new logistics for our adventures. Jesus even stayed after hours to help us out. This team was truly honest and genuine with a great sense of humor and skill. Thank again for taking the time, our car is running like a charm~ Highly recommend German Formula.

Jk
Review №42

Wow thats a great service I will definitely using again. Very professional and knowledgeable .. happy price and happy place thank you

Re
Review №43

Happy Service. Awesome The Best service. Great company

Ja
Review №44

These guys were very courteous and did a job another place wouldnt bother with. Timely and highly competent. Highly recommended!

He
Review №45

Robert was very helpful, got my oil changed in no time and he explained all of my issues in simple terms as I’m not a car person.

Ju
Review №46

How grateful we are for the quality service, attention to detail, care and compassion we received. We had great experience with the service, I got my car fixed the problem solved. Highly recommend German Formula!!

Th
Review №47

Just called to inquire about a diagnostic/ potential clutch repair, agent was informative and honest. A rarity in this industry. Grateful to speak with a legitimate individual for once. Highly suggest

tr
Review №48

The worst car experience ever!!! There is a crook named Alex that seems to be in control over there. I have no idea what he did to my classic Mercedes roadster after it sat there for days but he refused to give me a receipt and said he did not want my car on the books!? What the hell?? He told me to call my lawyer when I questioned what was done and what needed to be done, ESPECIALLY when I said I wanted it in writing! He also told me the car could not be driven any more!.. what the hell did he take from my car as if it was a parts car?? ..after he admitted that he and his wife owned a number of these cars and loved them!! I am taking my car to another mechanic to find out what this shyster did and why he is so shady about it. The weirdest mechanic experience I have ever had with my MB that I have owned for 27 years. Crooks!!!!!

Be
Review №49

Brian and the crew serviced my Audi well. Quote before service performed was exact and they delivered car back to me same as original time schedule. Price was reasonable too for high quality work.

De
Review №50

Robert the manager of this repair shop is a thief. He agreed to do a repair of a VW top for $1900 complete, when the repairs were done 2 months later after failing to meet quoted completion dates 3 time. He told me that even though he quoted my wife $1900 and agreed to this price, he would not honor the price. He demanded $2600 or he would not let me take the car. This was a car for my daughter and she need the car for summer work to earn money for school. We were extorted $800 from this crooked repair shop. These guys are crooks, stay far away.Update:The owner contacted me and we agreed on a refund to resolve the issue. The refund was made and the issue resolved.

Bi
Review №51

Great service, highly recommend them for Sprinter repair or maintenance work.

T
Review №52

Took my pampered 2000 Porsche Boxster for a check engine light on, at 68km, and just from the tic-tics idling sounds the tech said it’s likely an exhaust manifold leak rather than a bad O2 sensor (using OBDII readout) from his experience, and suggested a repair by welding versus buying new part at $3500+labor and may have the same happening again so I went with his advice. It was a spot on diagnostic and the final bill was less than $800, my car is idling smoothly now and runs quieter, has better throttle response so I’m very happy with their work and good timely communication during the process. I would not hesitate to bring my other vehicles there for service.

Je
Review №53

Avoid this place if you prefer doing business with people that do good work and stand behind it.They did my wifes 2002 Passat timing belt replacement. Ended up buying all the work they recommended: water pump, radiator, etc. for $1,959.10. Seventeen months and 7,507 miles later the car failed. More surprising was the reaction from German Formula: they were not willing to work with me in any way since it was over the 12 month/12,000 warranty. I was stunned.Took it to another mechanic: Found timing belt very loose. Suspect engine is out of time- possible internal engine damage. No signs of oil or fluid leaks. Need to replace timing belt and recheck engine for problems I paid this other company to fix their work (another $1k) and havent had any problems since. It was explained to me that the failure was do to the installation (specifically over-torquing), not the part.Mistakes happen -Its how a company responds once theres a problem thats important. German Formula earns a zero in that category, and earns a zero for poor work quality in the first place. Heres my understanding of German Formula: Do sloppy work and treat customers like strangers when they come back with problems as a result of the bad work.

Ju
Review №54

Highly recommend. Superfast service outstanding experience.THANKS

Jo
Review №55

While Valvoline had lower prices and similarly great service, where this local spot shines is KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE! Unlike Valvolines minimum-wage oil changers, German Formulas employees are skilled mechanics, and they knew exactly how to change the oil in my 2016 Volkswagen Jetta GLI--it has a plastic oil plug that has to be replaced every time; sadly, the lovely (very!) young woman who helped me at Valvoline didnt know my car from any other and told me my oil plug was too rounded to do anything that day. I got mad respect for the big companies out there doing their best to treat customers right, but theres simply no replacement for high-skilled local businesses in terms of quality and expertise. Thank you German Formula!

Da
Review №56

I called Dave needing immediate service on a Thursday morning and he was able to get me in right away. He and his staff were personable, professional and communicated well.I was going to be charged a diagnostic fee but since I pointed to the suspect part Dave waived it and just charged me an hours labor and part costs. I authorized additional labor for a relocation install and they waived it at the total cost.Plus the full synthetic oil change was cheaper than convenience shops like Oil Can Henry. The shop was clean, centrally located to downtown and service was performed efficiently.This friendly bunch of enthusiasts know how to do a job right and please the customer! If youre a VW owner (my vehicle) pick the right formula, German formula!

Sc
Review №57

Matrix has great service, fair pricing and very knowledgeable. Ive taken my Porsche to Matrix before I purchased it. I used them to inspect the car prior to me making an offer on it at a car dealership down the road. Glad I did. Nothing was found wrong but i could tell these guys are honest and do great work. Ive purchased tires through them before they were able to install them. They helped me research tires and then gave me straight up dealer cost on them. Now they can install tires, and Ive used them for that as well. And Ive used them for inspection prior to taking it out on the track at PIR. When I needed my clutch redone, they performed the work and found an undetected oil seal leak from an oil cooler located above the transmission. They sent me pictures and and I gave them authorization to have that work done as well.About 6 months after the repair work was completed I noticed another oil leak near the area they worked on inside the transmission. They said bring it down. The part inside the transmission that they had installed failed so they replaced it again and all is good (8 years later). A little over $1,800 worth of labor for a $50 part and they did it all for nothing. Great warranty!Highly recommend! In fact I have recommended Matrix to a coworker. He has been using them since he bought his Porsche and loves them as well.

Be
Review №58

I was traveling when my fuel pump went out in a Costco parking lot, I managed to get my car limped a few hours to Portland where German Formula was kind enough to get me in immediately and replace my fuel pump the same day and be back on the road. I was very happy about that.What did not thrill me was that when I called I was told it would be around $315 total (2 hours labor+pump, reasonable), and when I had to pay, it was more like $650 total (3 hours labor+pump). They then claimed that the $315 Total they had quoted over the phone was just the pump all of the sudden. Possibly just bad communication but it could have been made more clear over the phone. Now my car Stinks of fuel whenever I fill it up, but it runs.

Sh
Review №59

Quick service. Good patient, customer service. German Formula definitely recommend him.Thanks

El
Review №60

Richard and the mechanics at German Formula have once again come through for me in a serious way! They are very professional and know how to get the job done. This is the only place I take my BMW and will continue to do so. Thanks again guys!

Ta
Review №61

Jesus was incredible! Very knowledgeable about my old 81 380SL Mercedes! I recommend any Mercedes owner bring it here!

Ju
Review №62

Excellent service, reliable company.excellent work,..Use Again

To
Review №63

I found this shop via google search. Wow am I glad! They fixed my passat and did a few extra fixes.I took my passat to another shop(big mistake) They gave me a clean bill of health NOT TRUE.The coolant system was failing and would of left me stranded! Michael and his shop guru fixed me up,Also they changed my timing belt.They saved my car from the dump!!! I would recommend this shop only if you want your car fixed right. Great Job Guys I WILL BE BACK!!!!!!!!!! Trust This Shop.......Thanks Guys, Todd Beal

Em
Review №64

Very capable mechanics. Identified the problem and repaired it at a fair price.

su
Review №65

Great company .. 5 star Thanks

Jo
Review №66

Incorrect diagnosis led to unnecessary repair which costed me hundreds of bucks and did not fix the problem. Was not pleasantly surprised by professionalism of mechanic who wasnt able to clearly explain what type of diagnostic he had done on the car to arrive at his (incorrect conclusion). Turns out he had not even driven the car although the issue was partly one of lack of power. I would not recommend this place. It is expensive for what youre getting and the service is subpar.

一斗
Review №67

My sunroof didnt work, its raining and my sunroof keep open, the man helped me close the sunroof, for free :), yes I insisted to give him money but he refused because he thought this is a small problem, which is a big headache for me. anyway, great place, will go there to fix my car in future!

ka
Review №68

Wonderful shop for your automobile need from the start to finsh they did a fantastic job, specially Richard he was very helpful and knowlagble. I recommend them to everyone.

Ri
Review №69

The mechanics are great guys!, And awesome to work with! They try to make everyone happy happy happy thank you!

Ma
Review №70

AMAZING service, truly above and beyond! Ive been recommended here 3x and finally called them. They have now worked on my VW, Audi & Porsche. Its hard to find a business that is as accomodating as they are here. They helped me review 2 pre-purchase inspections (not done at the shop), stayed after hours to meet auto transport with me, and fit me in immediately when I had a buyer for my VW and the windows decided to stop working. Theyre knowledgeable, fair & I trust them to take great care of my cars and me!

Cl
Review №71

Certainly the best repair in town!

Ma
Review №72

Took my vehicle here and took them over 2 months.

Sh
Review №73

Friendly, fair, and knowledgable. I would stop and let the guys take a look.

Je
Review №74

They are the worst place in Portland over charge and they dont do the work they cut corners and try to charge top dollar terrible service and customer service

Da
Review №75

Horrible experience here. My car sat for weeks here and they werent able to fix anything. They took apart my wiring harness and put it back together incorrectly before giving it back to me and charging me for labor .

Ma
Review №76

Steep prices. Quality was disappointing.

Ja
Review №77

Gave me an estimate of over $5,000 for a clutch replacement. Thats a scooch high.

Jo
Review №78

Friendly and cheap

An
Review №79

Great shop

Information
38 Photos
79 Comments
4.4 Rating
  • Address:100 NE 11th Ave, Portland, OR 97232, United States
  • Site:https://germanformula.com/
  • Phone:+1 503-238-1707
Categories
  • Auto repair shop
  • Audi dealer
  • Auto tune up service
  • BMW dealer
  • Brake shop
  • Mercedes-Benz dealer
  • Porsche dealer
  • Transmission shop
  • Volkswagen dealer
Working hours
  • Monday:8am–5pm
  • Tuesday:8am–5pm
  • Wednesday:8am–5pm
  • Thursday:8am–5pm
  • Friday:Closed
  • Saturday:Closed
  • Sunday:8am–5pm
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
Offerings
  • Oil change:Yes
Amenities
  • Mechanic:Yes
Planning
  • Appointments recommended:Yes
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