Handleys Auto Repair - Bakersfield (CA)

5 /5 Rugnao F. “iAmFAUST”: I love Bob Handley and this is why! Below is my bad review for Sangera Subaru, but includes why I love Bob Handley and why I ONLY trust him with my vehicle. (BAD Sangera Subaru Review initially, then to why Bob Handley saved me and why I love the guy, as left on a review for that dealership) I brought in my car for an issue I had a little less than 3 years ago that they fixed. I didnt have a diagnostic tool then, and it was an oil control valve (code P000D Left Bank 2). Well, it is that same one now, and learned they (Sangera Subaru) wanted to charge me $405 for a damn diagnostic and while most dealerships warranty for 3 years or 35k miles, these guys only warranty 1 year according to their ASM I had seen. I said hell naw, and left. I aint ever coming back here again. Not even for an oil change, because I only take it there and discovered my center console was also damaged last time I was here, but I cant prove that since it was awhile. So if you are foolish enough to take it here for repairs or service, make sure you record everything prior so you have it on record it wasnt like that before, should you find an issue. I called Handleys and Bob told me exactly what happened with my car and offered to clear the code after I fix it, without pressuring me or trying to solicit his shop (it needed an oil change to diagnose). The oil change was a little more expensive than the dealerhsip, but better and here is why: My MPG went up (to a steady 16.5 vs when Sangera Subaru does it Iit drops to 10.3 within a few drives that same day) and car runs much better than ever taking it to Sangera Subaru. Plus he flashed it and no issues as he said my issue was causes by low oil or oil contaminates, even prior to bringing it in. He (Bob Handley) tried to direct me to a lube shop and I realized he does oil changes and called back to ask about it. He said they charge more and lube shops charge less, but his honesty earned my business and glad I did. $115 vs $405 + probably upwards of another $500 bs, because Sangera Subaru just changes your oil but claims they replaced the part. So I am done with this crooked dealership. Also change your oil every 3k miles, never listen to them or the internet. These EJ motors burn 1 qt of oil per 1k miles. Bobs oil is superior to that dreadful dealership and if I need anything, Handleys or All Automatic Transmission, will get my business, every time from now on.

5 /5 Slonski Landscape: Bob Handley and his team are a rare breed and some of the best mechanics you’ll find. They can meet almost any automotive need you may have. Bob himself is a very kind person and you won’t get lied to or get the run around at this shop. Just real answers and quality service by true professionals, not “parts changers.” I’ve spent quite a bit of time working on cars myself and find myself knowing more than most mechanics. Not at Handley’s. Bob has over 40 years of experience and gives us all the benefits of that wealth of knowledge. You won’t find a better shop in Bakersfield or almost anywhere, for that matter.

5 /5 TravAintSleep: Bob is a super amazing guy. Anytime I’ve had any issues with my truck I take it to him and his staff and they ALWAYS take care of me. Always affordable pricing too. Bob is honest and very transparent about your vehicle and will only tell you to fix what needs to be fixed. He has been doing this for a very long time so he knows a ton of great information. Ivan the front desk guy is super kind and helpful as well. Super happy to have a trusted mechanic I can always go to.

3 /5 Hunter Coffman: Only complaint is they fixed my issue (coolant leak) without making sure I was ok with it. Just wanted it checked out then get it fixed based on price, let them know on the phone to make the appointment and to drop the keys off. Good pricing for it but if it was more I couldnt have afforded it and I just wouldve liked to know the price before they went ahead and did it

5 /5 B Eduardo (Frost): I took a car that several mechanics diagnosed as needing a new engine. Bob took my car in and it turned out that it only needed ignition coils and spark plugs. On a separate occasion one of my cars wouldnt pass smog due to a certain part not working. Bob checked it out and told me to try a new smog check station since the part was working fine. I took his advice and turns out all I needed to do was reset the driving cycle. Needless to say, this is the only mechanic I trust with my cars and recommend to family members.