Great Bear Auto Repair & Auto Body Shop

348 reviews

164-16 Sanford Ave, Flushing, NY 11358

www.greatbearautoshop.com

+17187626212

About

Great Bear Auto Repair & Auto Body Shop is a Auto repair shop located at 164-16 Sanford Ave, Flushing, NY 11358. It has received 348 reviews with an average rating of 4.1 stars.

Photos

Hours

Monday7:30AM-5PM
Tuesday7:30AM-5PM
Wednesday7:30AM-3PM
ThursdayClosed
Friday7:30AM-5PM
Saturday7:30AM-5PM
Sunday7:30AM-5PM

F.A.Q

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The address of Great Bear Auto Repair & Auto Body Shop: 164-16 Sanford Ave, Flushing, NY 11358

  • Great Bear Auto Repair & Auto Body Shop has 4.1 stars from 348 reviews

  • Auto repair shop

  • "I came in with the expectation of killing engine light on and passing inspection"

    "I brought my car here for service early in the morning for a flat tire"

    "I recently had an outstanding experience at GREAT BEAR"

    "My AC was blowing warm air, and I was told that the refrigerant was out and that they have to check where leaks were for $310"

    "Wow I can't say enough about Great Bear Auto, my mom and I are clueless when it comes to cars and going somewhere that we can trust is essential"

Reviews

  • rudy luo

I came in with the expectation of killing engine light on and passing inspection. I came out with nothing done after paying almost $1,400. Sept 22nd Friday, I brought my 2004 Volkswagen Touareg in for repair due to engine light on. The inspection is due by end of October. This is my first visit to this car shop, despite it’s very close to me. Sept 28th Thursday, I came over to check since I haven’t heard from them for a week. They said cylinder #2 spark plug was stuck so they couldn’t do it because it involved great risk. I need to sign a release authorizing go-ahead. They claimed they contacted me several times but I had only one call from them and I picked up but they hanged up. It wasn’t a missed call. My phone call record shows it lasted one second. I signed anyway. That was the beginning. Sept 29th, I got a call saying cylinder #2 coil and spark plugs needs to be changed. They did successfully remove the spark plug that was stuck and will start working on it. September 30th, they said the repair is done and total cost $1,150. They charged $500 for diagnostic and replaced all 6 spark plugs and #2 coil. I asked why replaced all 6 spark plugs when only #2 broke. No answer. Just silence. Then they said I would still have misfire on #1 and #3 cylinder. I would also need to change the oil sensor they haven’t done. They did check the oil level and it was good. So it must be the oil sensor. I agreed to the oil sensor replacement but reluctantly accepts the #1 and #3 coil change. Sept 5th, I stopped by to get something from the trunk. They told me my car is done. Again, they never contacted me it’s done. Sept 6th, I came to pick up my car. Final bill: $26 each for spark plug, Amazon $30 for 4. $500 diagnostic, which I already had paid $700 at dealer for diagnostic report and I sent it to them before. Total $1,360 for something I never needed to do. I knew I could have rejected to pay but I thought I would never come back. I drove out and the warning still says “oil pressure low”, can you believe it? The check engine light is still on. The catalytic converter/flex pipe leaking, the hard part, was never done. This lady was very good at talking her way out like an attorney that makes her sound good. She would say “you said this and that” to overwrite you. She would say a lot jargons that you couldn’t argue. But remember: those who say, don’t do. Those who do, don’t say. Bottom line: don’t lose your focus. Just get the job done. Don’t let her elaborate on everything else not important. Bottom line: I was never happy throughout this experience. I read all the good reviews before I came. Nobody refers me there. I think all the good reviews are probably fake and misleading. I wouldn’t trust them any more. Once too much. It’s a place of mediocre mechanics that looked lazy and slow every time I was there. They can probably only do simple easy and routine things. Update to the reply: this lady who replied to me can do talking as eloquently as an attorney or politician, and that’s all she can do: talk. “We provide the best possible service” “We discussed in detail” “ensure you’re comfortable” “strive to provide high-quality service and repair options” “you were comfortable” “complex and challenging” …sounds familiar? Slick talking. Remember: those who talk, don’t do. Those who do, don’t talk. First: she claimed she called twice Sept 22nd (the 2nd day after I brought in) but my phone shows no missed call, and the only call I got from them, they hanged up after I picked up. My phone showed it’s a 1 second phone call. Then, they just left my car on the street until one week (Sept 28)later I came back and asked what’s going on. Never trying to reach me ever since. 2nd, seized spark plug, misfire, catalytic converter, coil. Every old car needs to replace converter. That’s a no-brainer. Misfire? Seized spark plug? 3 previous mechanics never talked about it, including dealer, suddenly it just broke? 3rd: I told them I had a dealer diagnostic report, why would I need them to do diagnostics for me?

  • Alex Kim

I brought my car here for service early in the morning for a flat tire. Being that there was a mechanic sitting outside on the metal bench on his phone, I asked him if he could look at it. He scoffed and pointed at the door to go inside. There were no signs or anything else to indicate that I needed to check in before service. The owner of the shop on the other hand was extremely friendly and accommodating. This shop would be my go-to shop if the mechanics showed even the slightest sign of human decency. Edit 05/27/23: A family member brought their car here recently because of a sudden check engine light. They were told that their spark plugs were bad and were quoted $1200- with $400 going to labor. When said family member found out that other shops in the area were charging around half the price for the same service, they were told by the mechanics that they would not release the vehicle unless they received $40. Assuming this was a fee for inspecting the vehicle (no explanation or receipt was ever provided), said fee was never mentioned nor posted prior to the mechanics inspecting the vehicle. Extremely low and petty of this shop to make an obvious attempt at salvaging money from someone they deemed as lost business.

  • Catherine Park

I recently had an outstanding experience at GREAT BEAR. From the moment I walked in, the staff & the manager Carrie were incredibly welcoming and attentive. They provided a detailed explanation of the repairs my vehicle needed and gave me a clear estimate. What really impressed me was their attention to detail in the repair work. My car came back looking as good as new, and they even took care of a few minor scratches that I hadn't initially mentioned. The work was completed ahead of schedule, which was a pleasant surprise. Throughout the process, they kept me informed about the progress of the repairs. The communication was excellent, and I never felt left in the dark. The staff's professionalism and expertise truly stood out. I can confidently say that GREAT BEAR goes above and beyond to provide top-notch service. If you're looking for a reliable and skilled auto body shop, I wholeheartedly recommend them. My car has never looked better, and I'm extremely satisfied with the entire experience.

  • Luke Oh

My AC was blowing warm air, and I was told that the refrigerant was out and that they have to check where leaks were for $310. I told them not to proceed with the fix because I have mechanic I know offering the service at a much lower price. However, I was told over the phone that they already refilled the refrigerant with a dye (to find the leak) without my permission. I had to tell them to undo whatever they did and just paid for check in fee of $50. When I was going to get my car, one of the mechanics stopped me and tried to find where my car was even though I already saw where they left my car. I am very disappointed with my experience as a first-time customer, especially after reading so many positive reviews here. It was very unprofessiona and confusingl overall. I will not return to fix my car here ever again.

  • Pamela S

Wow I can't say enough about Great Bear Auto, my mom and I are clueless when it comes to cars and going somewhere that we can trust is essential. Audra and her staff were incredible at putting us at ease with all the work our car needed. She constantly checked in with us knowing we didn't have another car to use. The staff there really goes above and beyond for you and your family. I won't be going anywhere else because I know my money and my car are safe with Audra. We went to another shop and almost scammed but Audra was honest and charged us half the price of the other shop. Her work was outstanding and fast! We got our car back in half the time we thought it would take. Don't go anywhere else, don't look anywhere else, go to great bear auto they will treat you like family!! Thanks Audra!!!

  • Mario from NY

It is good to be back. I used to come here from 2012 to 2016 until I sold my old car and bought a new one. Fast-forward to 2022, my warranty is expired so I am back to Great Bear Auto. Audra and her team are great. On May 28th, 2022 I had a noise coming from my front axle. Audra had one of the mechanics test drive it. It was an issue with my brakes one side was wearing faster. Audra explained that they would try to free up the brake and if that didn't work I would need new brake pads and rotors. What I like about going to a place that is honest and trustworthy is that you can actually see the work being done. You can ask questions and they can actually show you the parts that have been taken off I replaced.

  • KyleWhoo

Brought my car in for an inspection for $37 dollars. The employees here are very welcoming and efficient, treating me like friends and family. John, one of the people at the front desk was notably friendly and we had a nice chat about some cars while I waited. The techs are also very knowledgeable and honest, they called me into the shop to report that my rear tires were going to need replacement soon after showing me the tread depth. Came back after about an hour for lunch and my car was waiting for me in the same condition it came in. Walked into the office, paid, and walked out satisfied. Safe to say you can trust them with your car.

  • S. Delince

Went there for an inspection and they tried to charge me $3,000 for “required repairs”. Went to another auto shop same day! and the car passed inspection no issues! The other mechanic laughed when I showed them the reasons it failed their inspection. I Just needed washer fluid! Claims to be a woman ran auto-shop when really it’s just an overpriced scam shop. Almost used them to repair a fender bender and they wanted $2000 to repair a chip in the front grill. Would not recommend unless you’re using insurance and even then I wouldn’t give them the business because they will overcharge!!

  • Thomas Seweid-DeAngelis

Great Bear is consistently excellent. Everyone who works there is kind and easy to communicate with. They call you with updates, they answer all of your questions, and are transparent about prices for parts and labor. Every time I’ve asked them for estimates before the work was done, the price has always been what they said it will be. They are very organized, clean, and efficient. It’s always a pain to deal with car troubles, but the understanding and honest people at great bear make the process much easier. I’ve had my car here 3 times and will take it here forever.

  • Joe C

I’ve been a regular customer for almost 10 years. I’ve also introduced my wife to the shop a few years ago. The service provided by Audra (Owner) and her team has been nothing but spectacular. I can speak from doing regular maintenance work with them such as oil changes, tire rotations, brakes and tires. However you want to do it, you can just pay for the labor and buy the parts yourself. Their technicians are pretty good as they also provided us with recommendations and problem areas to look out for without the pressure to get the work repaired right away.

  • Hoon

Went to this shop several times. Decent work. Like the fact that I can leave my car at night with an explanation in a note and they would fix it for me while I'm working the next day. The only complaints are that it's a bit more expensive than other places but its the closest one i got so its worth it i guess and that they are always too busy so you have to wait if you are in a hurry or asked to come the next day or to leave the car behind. The longest I have waited in person was more than 1hr and half so I would call in and visit if it's an emergency.

  • Alvin Lee

My family and I have been coming to Great Bear for over 35 years for all our car inspections and car repairs. Proud to support our local Flushing businesses and Great Bear has been a pillar here in Queens. Audra and the guys are always awesome. Everything is always documented and explained and prices for repairs are always fair and reasonable. You’ll always have a friend at Great Bear if you have car needs.

  • darcy zheng

This auto repair shop is not professional. Uber checks every 4 months. The tires were only used for 26,000 miles and I was asked to replace them with new ones. Then the new tires were installed backwards. Drive more than 51 miles on the highway. The ground ahead will be unstable. So I advise people not to go to this shop for any car issues. Because they are unprofessional believe me. I am a victim.

  • Russell Targove

When something goes wrong with my vehicle, I do not ever panic. I call my dear friend Audra and her Team Great Bear, and they solve my issues quickly and with ultimate care and courtesy. It is a pleasure and I feel like I am with family.. My car thanks you. And i thank you.. Congratulations on celebrating 90 Years of providing great service to the Queens Community. Great to be a part of it.

  • Ann Milutinovic

Their professionalism and kindness is 2nd to none. Their quality of work and thorough knowledge is impressive. Their prices are reasonable and detailed for clarification up front. And the follow up is appreciated!! Cedric went above and beyond to get my cars needs met. I took a class with Audra over 6 years ago and it still serves me to this day.

  • Joseph Newswander

More friendly than going to a chain shop. They will actually listen to your concerns about your car and will bring things to your attention, but they weren’t pushy at all about it, they just did what I brought it in for and simply provided a quote for recommended services. Everyone I spoke to here was personable and informative.

  • V S

Went to change my breaks. Employee tells me they can’t figure out how to get the Break sign to turn off after changing out the pads & I need to take it to the dealer. Brought the car to another shop and they had the sign off in minutes. Only go here for emergencies. For all other tasks, they are overpriced and incompetent.

  • Howard Kim

I feel very bad today. Because $37.00 is gone. I was trying to get an inspection. However, I couldn't inspection it because the tires were a little bad. I had to pay $37.00. I went to another place to inspection it. It's too inflexible here. Won't visit again. Other people may have this too. I do not recommend this place.

  • Tammy Kreiss

The best!!!! 35+ yrs ago Bill Fordin told me his 2 daughters worked there, one was a mechanic, the other blew me away with her knowledge when people came for help. They also pride themselves in respect, & honesty. This is how to run a business 90 YRS!!! HAPPY ANNIVERSARY as the 5th generation will continue the legacy!!!

  • Paul Lee

Do yourselves a favor and shop around the area because this business charges astronomically higher than other local shops. I saved 50% off for the same service going to another shop down Northern. Also got a no name tire from them for the same price of a Michelin tire my wife got at another spot. Never going back.

  • Kenny Reff

Great Bear is a small shop that takes pride in its work. I was really impressed by Cedric's automotive knowledge and the professional attitude of the owner/managers. I felt they were honest and charged a reasonable price for the repairs I needed, which were extensive. Overall, I highly recommend them.

  • Kelly Choez

Very happy with the service provided. John went above and beyond. They fixed the problem and did not overcharge. It’s hard to find a mechanic you can trust and that knows what they are doing. This place was recommended by family for their honesty and excellent work. They did not disappoint.

  • nancy garcia

Great Bear has always provided excellent care of our car, keeping it driving at its best. Whenever we need a fix, small or large, they always provide the best service. Audra and her team are great professionals and will continue to bring this and any car there for their care.

  • Michael Yee

I have been coming to Great Bear on Sanford for years. Audra is always around and is honest with the customers- giving options for work that needs to be done and never makes me feel pressured to do their recommendations. Staff is always helpful and tries to accommodate all!

  • Andrea Love

Great Bear on Sanford Ave is the Best experience I’ve had ever at an automobile repair shop. They are super friendly and honest. They fixed my car in a timely manner with great communication. Jenny is the mascot who greats you at the door, she’s a super sweet dog, love her!

  • Amy D

Terrible customer service. When I tried to explain a problem I was having I got nothing but attitude in return. I was trying to work with them and they were getting nasty with me .If you want a job well done I suggest you don’t even step foot no where near this business

  • Akinyele Horton

Great shop! Just got my car back and they do excellent work. Carrie the office manager is great and super personable. The mechanics know what they're doing and I can always trust their word. Definitely recommend if you are looking for honest people who do honest work!

  • Cwork

They're the best in the neighborhood and I've been using them for years now. I love how honest and real they are with you! Got so much work done on my car the other day and they are the only ones I trust with my car! Definitely have referred all friends and family!

  • Calvin L

Had an issue with tire sensors not registering and found that all 4 sensors needed to be reprogrammed. Carrie was kind enough to give me a great discount on reprogramming and the issue was taken care of immediately. Would highly recommend to anyone, thanks again!

  • Ed Dewalters

I’ve been a Great Bear customer for over 30 years. I trust their analysis and their work and they have always been spot on! I have recommended them to many friends and family. They make me feel like family whenever I go there and Audra and the team are awesome!

  • Alex lall

I have been searching for a good mechanic for years who’s honest And reliable , after my second service at great Bear auto I believe my search is over. if I would recommend any service shop at this point Great bear auto repair is the right place to be . Alex

  • JT

I love the friendliness and honestly that you find at great bear. I've been a customer for a few years now and they are the best. Audry will always greet you with a smile on her face and Cedric is a top notch mechanic. I love the idea that

  • David Chiu

I took my Subaru 2012 forester for a second opinion after the Subaru dealership service stated that my car need an estimated recommended repair of $11,000. Great Bear checked and inspected an all the recommendation repairs that was listed

  • Jae Lee

I never rate any business, but this shop is wonderful. I only get inspections done here because i lease my vehicles most of the time, but if i had owned a car i would come here everytime for an oil change and etc. The whole staff is very

  • S C

I've been coming here for over 10 years and just stopped going, they completely overpriced all auto repairs and the customer service experience has turned horrible, the girl at the front desk was extremely rude towards a loyal customer.

  • Sushovita T

After just buying a used car from a dealer, I can’t thank Audra enough for her help in dealing with the shady dealer warranty, she called them herself & firmly asked them for the paperwork they “forgot” to give me to prove I had their

  • Todd DeGennaro

I have been dealing with Great Bear for close to 40 years. They handle my personal vehicles as well as my fleet at work. They are top notch and very affordable. I have read some of the poor reviews and felt a need to set some of them

  • Jasmine

Honestly I had the best experience here. Front desk is amazing and so helpful. I know little to nothing on cars and being a woman I feel like I'm always getting ripped off any place I've been to but here the prices are great and they

  • Anna Toom

I have been living in Flushing , NY, (10 walking distance from Great Bear Auto Repair) since 1998. I know them for about 20 years. I know 2 generations of people owning this business. I can say only good about them. Over the years, I

  • Francesca Hackenjos

I had a very good experience with Women Auto Know. They helped repair my car and even taught me how to prevent my same issue from happening in the future! I am considering signing up for a workshop. Extremely helpful and informative.

  • CHRIS GRAZ

We are happy, loyal customers and highly recommend their service to you. My family has 3 cars that are always serviced at great bear for 10+ years. Thank you Audra and the whole Great Bear Family for keeping us safe on the road!!

  • Melissa Kraut

Great Bear in flushing is the best place to go to ensure your vehicle is being cared for properly with extra special care. The friendly & knowledgeable atmosphere keeps me coming back year after year !!! Highly recommend to all!!

  • Xcloosiv

Best shop in town! Reliable, Honest, woman owned! Been coming here for years and Just had my car serviced there recently. They are the best shop around, they always take care of their customers and they do quality work!

  • ineria Beatriz arana

Great service. Great mechanics …price for my brakes was affordable and work was done in a timely manner. Thank you Carrie for your assistance. Definitely will go back for more work needed in my other vehicle.

  • Alyssa Moreno

Great bear auto, is a pillar to our community. Staff is amazing and friendly, and truly goes above and beyond for there customers! Affordable prices for All! Great bear truly treats everyone as family!

  • Eury Rosario

The owners will know that this shop is a scam with their front workers and mechanics.?? They are just scammers, they just scammed me out of stealing my original parts to sell me replacement parts.

  • Bitty theKid

Very thorough mechanic with a great customer relations philosophy (see photo). Love that it’s been in the family for 4 generations and is now run by the great-granddaughter of the founder!

  • Ferne Lucksavage

I have been taking my car to Great Bear for quite sometime. The mechanics are courteous and honest. They do not take you for a "ride." Everything is explained prior to them doing any work.

  • Tania Del cid Carranza

This is one of the best auto shops I know. The mechanics are honest and attentive in giving their honest review. The front desk is always ready to help out and the service here is great.

  • Harvey Birnbaum

A great find, very professional. A long time Customer takes care of all my families and friends know where else in queens matches up to the shop. Great staff read texts great experience.

  • Crystal Park

Definitely recommend Great Bear! They are hard working, excellent service and kind. Carrie was very friendly and helpful with all of my questions. Will return again for any car issues!

  • Jeffrey Lee

Took care of my worries and explained thoroughly of the problems I had with my vehicle. Great place! Just a little misunderstanding. Will continue coming here! …

  • Nadia Santora

Great experience at Great Bear! Auto mechanics were timely and manager was kind and HONEST. Excellent customer service. Will return again for any car issues.

  • Anthony Barnwell

The front desk is so welcoming and the mechanics are amazing at what they do. This shop is so honest and explains everything prior to any work being done.

  • Lori Hughes

Had a great experience having my air conditioner fixed at Great Bear Auto! Audra and her staff are friendly and great to work with. Highly recommend!

  • Neil Dorfman

Great Bear’s customer service is VERY impressive. Leaving me confident that I’m well taken care of and that my car is in the utmost of good hands.

  • Mingfang Lin

Very bad service. The fees are extremely high. And they charge arbitrarily. The boss' attitude is very unfriendly. Will never come back.

  • Joanne Zhou

They helped me to fix my honda . I am very satisfied with their work. Well done. I went back there for more services this morning Thanks

  • Tara Williams

Such a great experience! The manger Carrie was so helpful and very insightful with what was going on. I would definitely recommend.

  • Jean Kang

My experience here was amazing! Carrie was so helpful and Cedric took care of my car with such professionalism! Best shop around!

  • Michael Hernandez

Great service and honesty. I feel comfortable taking my car there because I trust they will take care of me and do a great job!

  • koukou Jones

The owner gave us the annual vehicle inspection as quickly as possible, the lovely dog, and the beautiful flowers, thank you.

  • PriEagle

The best auto shop I've had the pleasure to go to for everything my car needs at great prices. Highly recommend! Seriously!

  • Seemab Mohsin

I was there for Oil change, the service was quick and good. Good customer service. Recommend this place to everyone.

  • Lenny Zenith

Worth the trip! Woman-run, professional and reasonable. 10 years of going here has saved my cars! Highly recommend!

  • Susan Salzberg

The staff was efficient and explained the issue well before fixing it. They took great care of me and my car!

  • A N

Have been back for their service multiple times. Friendly & speedy service always. Keep up the good works!

  • Tedd Phillips

I've been going to the same mechanic for years,GREAT BEAR is a great addition for my vehicle maintenance!

  • Norman Carmona

A pillar of the community. Very family friendly and welcoming. Honest employees, would 100% recommend.

  • Moises G Jr (Moe)

They made me feel like home The girls and my boy Jay in up front. Thanks

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