11/14/12 MY Story ( What was going on): Well what can I say? I guess the only thing I know is the truth. I purchased my car about 7 years ago from a Chevy Dealer brand spanking new... over the years I would take it to get maintenance at the Chevy dealer. As the years have gone by the car wasn't running like it should. I mean i kept up with the maintenance part... It started losing gas mileage, the engine began to surge the ride was really rough and it started turning off on me. I don't have the money to buy a new car...So I took it into the Chevy dealer (Ziegler Chevy in Schaumburg) and have them go over the car to see what was going on with the surging, loss of power and poor gas mileage. All the service guy told me was that there was nothing wrong with my car and that as the car gets older that is to be expected and presented me with a $120.00 dollar bill. I brought it back to them and told them the car isn't running like it is suppose to they charged me 120.00 to get it look at it again and didn't find anything wrong with it... I was like I am a loyal customer why is it that they aren't making an effort to help me out.. after 7 year of throwing money out the window with the service calls I brought my car in to Hollywood Motors, Inc... They treated me with Respect as soon as I stepped into their shop. Josh and the Mechanics know what they are doing... They get the job done right affordably and quickly. What I had done: Josh asked me a few questions and came out with a plan of work that my car needed done after doing their inspection... I had the following done to my car about a week or two later: 1. Engine Serpentine belt replacement 2. Clean,Inspect & adjustment of rear brakes 3. Fuel injection system service & fuel tank additive 4. Throttle body & combustion chamber services 5. Full brake system fluid flush with BG products 6. Complete strut replacement in front (Includes strut,mount,coil 7. Spring,boots,grommets), & replacement of rear shock w/ alignment 8. Front control Arms Replaced. 9. Exhaust manifold (Front part of the Muffler) I paid for the service and got in my car and said a little prayer before turning it on. The car started right up... put in drive but the real test was getting to the first stop light with a bit of speed and stopping to see if the engine surged (this is when it usually happened and shut off on me constantly). I picked up speed and sure enough as I stopped the RPMs stayed normal instead of surging and the car sounded strong instead of like a shivering baby. The light turned green and there was no forward knock and the pickup on my little 4 cylinder car is awesome... The ride is good and felt like the first time I drove it off the lot... I am back to filling it up at the gas pump once every 12 to 14 days. small bumps and dips in the rode doesn't feel like the car isn't being rattle to pieces... I glide over everything and at a more comfortable ride. the car feels tight and rigid... not loose and rickety... the engine has more pep to it. In short, they gave me hope and promised me that my car would be driving and feeling different different.. these professionals did an outstanding job and I don't cringe anymore when I drive the car. I am going to be taking all my business there... I have a few more things that need to get done like getting all my tires bought and put on there.... I am sure they will do an outstanding job... if you wanted to feel like your are special then I definitely recommend them.

Lauren S. 7/23/12 • Sucks when your brakes go out, sucks even more when you wait like three months to get it fixed because you're low on cash! But we brought our car to Hollywood Motors last week, and they did a great job in replacing the pads/rotors and changing the oil and all that. They aren't kidding with the "In by 7:30, out by 5:30" except ours was in by like 8:30, and even though they had a lot of work, they still had it out by 5:00!! I love the whole "Visual Inspection" they do as well. Makes me feel at ease. I don't think I'll ever go to another car repair place; I trust Hollywood Motors and I'm happy with the work they've done for us in the past, as well as the level of customer service they've always provided, and I really appreciate the follow-ups they do. Thanks guys!!

Jon F 04/02/12 • Got in last minute trying to milk my day off of work. They accommodated me after confirming stock of the parts, said it would be 2.5 hours worth of work for brakes and a few other things. Took my car in at 2 and sure enough all work finished by 4:30, right on time. Break room had a water cooler, coffee, chips, cookies. There was also Comcast cable and internet. Typically free wireless internet at a dealership is painfully slow due to the traffic shaping they put in place. Hollywood seemed to have no traffic shaping in place and was very quick. Makes a huge difference in passing the time if you desire to bring a laptop/tablet in. I could not find anything to dock points on so I gave them a 5. Will be returning for my future car maintenance.

Katie Z 07/27/11 • Awesome customer service! I just moved to the area and considered Hollywood Motors after reading previous reviews. I got a $20 oil change thanks to the yelp coupon and had my air conditioning fixed. Josh was very informative and patient. He explained everything in detail and never made me feel like I was being taken advantage of nor did he invent ways of squeezing extra $$ out of me like past automotive places I've dealt with. I felt they were all honest, attentive, friendly, and most importantly made you feel appreciated as a customer. I absolutely recommend them and will be a repeat customer, thanks!!

Rebecca V 09/05/11 • After buying a lemon used VW from a terrible dealership, I knew I needed to find a reputable mechanic to take care of it. I was very happy to have found Hollywood Motors in Brookfield. It's literally a 5 minute walk to the Zoo, so it's easy to drop your car off and head on over while they check it out! Turned out my car needed more work than I expected, but I totally trusted Josh and the crew to fix it all. From the very start, I was treated with respect and actually spoken to like I might know what they were talking about! (I am no car person, but fortunately my dad and my brothers are, so I know key terms and I can call on them for a second opinion!) Everything that needed to be done was above-board, reasonably priced, and fixed right the first time. They also gave me a loaner car since my repairs took a couple of days. When I was leaving, the owner stopped to chat with me in the parking lot and explained exactly what some of the issues with my car were, told me what to look out for, and was just really nice to talk to. Treating a customer with respect and friendliness goes a long way with me, and these guys really know how to deliver. Customer for life!!

Jessica M 03/19/11 • We had received multiple referrals to this place and lucky us - it's just down the street. The great thing about this place is that it is polar opposite of what I'm used to at my car dealership. The people treat you like you're an individual. They do quality work - fast. They even have a few special touches to make you feel like an appreciated customer. More about that later. My brakes were sounding horrid so I knew it was time to replace the brake pads if not the rotors as well. I also needed an alignment and an oil change. I'm sure the guys could tell I was nervous as could be when I walked in there and told them my car concerns. Although I'd brought my man, I was scared to leave my car to be inspected, fearing they'd come back and say I needed $1200 of work done. Not the case. They called me the next day to tell me what was up and said they'd be done by end of day. End.of.day. Nice! All in all I was very happy with the service. They even left a card and a York peppermint pattie on the dash as a little thank you. A few days later I received a full-on thank you note with a referral coupon for $10 off an oil change/$5 off for the person you refer. Very nice touch. Oh - and a free car wash once they finished working on my car! Yes! Thanks, Hollywood!

Jeffrey S 12/21/09 • I normally don't do reviews of non-restaurant business but I figure Hollywood Motors deserves a plug. I've been coming here for years and I think they do a great job of making sure your car is properly serviced. What makes Hollywood Motors different is that they try to anticipate future problems as well as address whatever is wrong with the car at that point in time. Sometimes they tell you stuff you don't want to hear or it seems like they are drumming up business, but over time, you find out that they are just keeping you informed on the state of your vehicle. I've always found Hollywood accomodating, and I find them much preferable to "chain" type businesses.

Elsie P 06/11/10 • I had a great experience here after getting a flat tire on my way in to work. They were friendly and helpful, and even offered coffee and coffee cake in the waiting room (which I appreciated since the flat prevented me from having time to get b-fast). They patched the tire and mounted it, all in under 15 minutes and for under $20. I also found out that they offer a shuttle to Hines VA and Loyola employees when your car needs to be left for an oil change or service. I will likely be bringing my car here for my next oil change.

Jenn B 03/10/11 • Just moved to Brookfield from the north side back in October 2010. Finding a new mechanic was giving me a headache - I loved my mechanic in the city (S&D Auto, if you are in the Lincoln Square area) and dreaded the thought of finding a new guy to work on my 2002 VM Beetle. I did some research, and due to proximity to home and Metra plus positive reviews, I took my Vdub to Hollywood the other morning after the stupid passenger window motor decided to go out on me. I know this is an expensive repair, so I was bracing myself for the worst. When I showed up promptly at 7:30AM the guys were just getting everything going, but didn't blink an eye when I walked through the door. After being complimented because I knew the mileage on my car without looking (it's a weird German thing), the guys drove me home with the promise to call as soon as they knew what was going on. They warned me of the $99 diagnostic fee for the door, which I was appreciative of the heads-up. Sure enough, they called at around 2pm and gave me the low-down - I also gave the go-ahead to rotate the tires and change a few lightbulbs while they were at it. Hey, the window motor part itself was $200, what's another $50 in little stuff? All told, I forked over $560 to Hollywood the next day - as I was going over the itemization with the guys, I noted all the comped services - labor for the bulbs (which doesn't sound like a big deal, but on a VW Beetle it totally is!), battery check, diagnostic, etc. They washed my car, gave me a coupon for a $19.95 oil change, and...here's the ultimate kicker...left a thank-you note on the steering column with a bag of Hershey Kisses stapled to it!!!! Now there's a shop that knows how to keep a lady's business :) We'll see how our future goes, but Hollywood and I are off to a great start!

Daisy C. 06/23/10 • Took my old 1987 VW camper vanagon here for a check-up while on a cross country trip from DE to CA. They changed the oil, checked the belts and brakes, and took extra time when I got back to help troubleshoot some weird noise (turned out being some rust!) even though it was right as they were closing. Super helpful and friendly, right next to the train station, so an easy ride in/out of the city, and esp know their older VWs! Thanks guys (from the real Hollywood!)

Diane M. 12/18/11 • Easy as pie! I live southwest and used yelp to find this place to get an alignment. They took my car in right away. I was able to drop if off in the morning, grabbed the Metra to work and back, and they were there waiting for me at 6:05 (they stayed a few minutes late to meet me). They called me during the day and recommended that I get an oil change (I was overdue) and then told me that they had other recommendations for what service was due for my car but that they would just write that down for me to review. I liked that they did not do a hard sell, instead they sent me home with a list for me to think about. Their prices were very reasonable and they are polite, friendly and are willing to make the time to answer any and all questions. We will be going back there again to check out their other services.

Keith S. 11/28/12 The guys at Hollywood Motors are what everyone looks for in a auto repair shop. Honest, clean, professional, and dependable. I got so tired of the up-sell on repairs from the new car dealer -- the last time I went there it was horrible how dishonest the dealer was. Vowed not to go back. At Hollywood Motors I know I can trust when they say something needs to be repaired, it ACTUALLY needs to be repaired. They keep my car dependable, they are convenient and always timely. They wash your car and they follow-up to make sure you are satisfied with their work. Great group, great service, professional. Can't say enough good about them. Thanks to Jeff, Josh, Don and the whole Hollywood Motors gang!

Tim R 11/15/12 These guys rock! I've just moved in this area and I needed to take care quick of the oil change and tires. They are quick, efficient, honest. Don't have anything original to add. Just another satisfied customer!

Dennis D. 11/19/12 Customer service, competitive prices and quality work. That's what I look for. Don and the team nailed all these requirements for me. Couldn't really ask for much more. The guys were very professional. They did solid clean work. They made sure I was clear on all aspects of the repairs as we went through the process. I'm glad I have found a reliable garage so close to my house.

Charles Z. 10/30/12 I have been using this business for my two cars for about 3 years. Initially, because of location and AAA recommended. I have found them to be very clean, prompt, professional, courteous and work with me to get a good fix as cheaply as possible. Since my dealer warranties have run out, I now use Hollywood Motors exclusively when not in Florida. Great work, good prices (beat any other quotes I have gotten). I've had some bad experiences with some dealers so I'm very happy to write a good recommendation here!

Elizabeth C 10/09/12 My Hyundai is 3 years old and I had been looking for a mechanic so I could stop going to the dealer for maintenance (their idea of inspect is to automatically replace). My daughter lives in Riverside and told me about Hollywood Motors. I gave them a try and really liked their service. They inspected my car, called to advise what needed replacing and had my vehicle ready when I arrived after work. They gave me a ride to Enterprise rentals in the morning so I could pick up a car for the day and were very friendly. Their waiting room is nice and comfortable. And they gave me m&m candy as a thank you gift! I have found my new mechanic. Plus, if I refer a friend, I get a discount on my next oil change! (Which are very reasonably priced!)

Roger C. 05/04/12 I love this place! I have brought my car here twice. I have a Saab Viggen which I am quite particular about. Both times I was impressed with the level of professionalism and courtesy. They gave me information regarding needed maintenance after they serviced my car, without any pressure, or up-sell. Both times they washed my car (no charge), and when I had new tires installed, they even washed the wheels so that they looked brand new. The cost was reasonable and straight forward. I am bargain oriented, and pay attention to the invoice. I have been impressed, and recommend Hollywood to my friends.

Mike M. 04/25/12 I usually go to the dealership for car work but two days ago I got a flat. I used liquid filler to get home but had Jury duty the next day so two days after the flat the foam had worn off and I had a flat again. Since it was the closest place (two blocks away) and I didn't want to drive far on a flat I took it to Hollywood Motors, within an hour they called me and told me what the issue was and the price (19.95 to patch it up super well) and ten mins. later they called and said it was ready. When I got there to pick up my car they handed me a list of things that needed to be worked on with my car, saying I should just keep track of it (where as most places try to up their profit by trying to hard sell you at that time.) when i got in my car there was a note thanking me for my business with a bag of candy attached to it, I know that's not a huge thing but it's a nice personal touch that dealerships just don't provide. Basically, I had an amazing experience with Hollywood motors and I plan on replacing my dealership with them from now on for any car related issues I may have. EDIT: about half an hour after this was posted they called me to thank me for the review, that's some really amazing and personal customer service that can't be beat.

Claire E. 02/23/12 Whats on my mind you ask!!?? Beware of car dealers!! I had a knocking sound in trunk area, Honda dealer told me I needed new shocks for $550...I decided to get a 2nd opinion from HOLLYWOOD MOTORS IN BROOKFIELD...guess what Honda, it was a loose bolt that HOLLYWOOD tightened, test drove and fixed...when I asked how much? Josh at Hollywood says NO CHARGE!! .WAY TO GO HOLLYWOOD MOTORS!! YOU WILL BE GETTING MY BUSINESS FROM NOW ON...OIL CHANGES FOR 20 BUX....THIS IS WHAT IM TALKING ABOUT...PAYING IT FORWARD....ps. i rated 4 stars since this was my very first encounter at Hollywood...I have heard good things about this place and intend to bring my business back with more success stories and hopefully an upgrade to 5 stars!!! Safe Driving to all!!

Brendan G 12/26/11 Hollywood Motors was extremely helpful and friendly during my first visit. They helped me out when I needed a quick fix and I will definitely be going back to Hollywood when I need my next repair or oil change. The whole staff was great and their waiting room was great! Thanks again Hollywood!

Candi S. 11/07/11 Hollywood Motors is exceptional! i had a walk-in experience and have continued to come back over and over for all my automotive problems. all their prices are very fair for the work that is done on the car. they do A LOT more than the other car repair shops at such a low price! the man there are very trustworthy and show a great passion for their careers, u can see it in their work. all the employees are very kind and so helpful and knowledgeable! this place is my go-to no matter what; totally no a rip off like all the other places ive been to.

Matt R. 09/15/11 Every time that I bring my car to Hollywood I am impressed. The quality of the workmanship and the willingness to help is exactly what I'm looking for when it comes to getting my car worked on. I've been to pretty much all of the little "lube shops" and "total car care places" and they fail in comparison to the comprehensive knowledge that is offered at Hollywood. Especially since I care about my car and need to make sure it is properly maintained. (Turbocharged) I can actually ask questions and get them answered. Highly Recommend!

Dawn L. 08/10/11 Last Saturday, I took my 2004 Mitsubishi Diamante VR-X in for an oil change and quick check of some stuff. The minute I walked in, I felt like I was home!!! I've lived in Brookfield for 10 years, now and for one reason or another, I had no idea that this place existed. I'm so happy I looked this place up and to know that it's AAA approved is a bonus!!! Staff was wonderful (treating me like a person and not just a number) and their waiting room is pristine - nice, comfy couches and a nice TV!!! I watched Lord of the Rings, while I waited for my car to be serviced. 30-45 minutes later, I was all set. They left a thank you note on my dash with a little bag of skittles. Also, a few days later, I received a letter in the mail, thanking me for my business. NICE TOUCH!!! I live about a mile from Hollywood Motors Inc. Quite convenient for me. I will definitely be bringing my car back here again. -Dawn :)

Brett R. 07/13/11 Simply put, these guys are the best - honest, fast, super-knowledgeable and very customer-oriented. I've been a customer of Brookfield Motors since moving to Riverside (neighboring town) in 2007, both with my 2003 Ford Mustang v6 and now with my 99 Cadillac DeVille. This shop couldn't be more knowledgeable or customer-oriented. The staff can find even the most obscure causes to problems, is happy to take their time to answer questions, and they treat you like their neighbor - including a lift home if you're in dire straits. In terms of reliability, I've never had a problem. All repairs have been done with excellence, and I've never had a recurrence of issues. Looking forward to another 100k with Brookfield Motors.

Nathan E. 07/07/11 I've been taking my car here for a couple of years now. They've always done right by me fixing what needs fixed and giving suggestions for whatever else needs done on my dying VW, without any pressure.

Squeo M. 06/28/11 I can't really say enough good things about this place. we first went to them because we had out of town guest who needed some new tires and the shop is right down the street. we got a great price and it was done in time for our guests when they needed to leave. Then my husband put new tires on his car and i started doing regular oil changes with my car. The staff they have are amazing! I really feel like every time we need to take a vehicle in, the job is being done by professionals and people that know what they are doing.

Scott S. 06/06/11 Definitely exceeded my expectations as a first time customer; the guys were much more welcoming and friendly than the local Toyota dealer. Oil change, tire rotation, basic inspection, and some additional work as a result of that inspection were all explained to me and done on time. I will definitely be back for the next service I need but they may be in trouble since they set the bar pretty high...

Dawn S. 04/16/11 I've been going to Hollywood Motors for several years now, and have always felt confident in the work that they do. They answer all my questions, explain things to me in detail, and are always very professional. I don't have to worry about being "ripped off". I had an issue once where my car was about to die and I barely made it to Hollywood Motors. I made it there to find out there was a computer problem. I sat in there very nice waiting room while they diagnosed my car issue. Since they needed to keep my car, they were nice enough to loan me a rental so I could continue with my day. Great Service!! :)

Dawn T. 04/02/11 Hollywood Motors is different then your big chain business. The "up-sell" is not part of their vocabulary. They let you know what is wrong with your vehicle and correct the issue for a fair price. They are friendly, courteous and conveniently located close to the train, offering drop-off service when necessary. I never feel like I have to be concerned what I am going to find out when I leave my car and know the job will get done correctly. If you want to go back to how customer service used to be - instead of just being a number - this is the place to go. They will have my business for a very long time.

Mike L. 01/29/11 I've had a few oil changes and some minor body work done here, and I've been very satisfied with the customer service, the work done on the car and the prices. Unlike Jiffy Lube, they actually check all the things they say they check, and I always feel confident that my car is in good working order when I drive it out. They also have snacks and comfy couches in the waiting area... which is a far cry better than the lobby at the dealership. I highly recommend these guys!

Tony R. 12/08/10 I want to give this place 1,000 stars.... not just 5. I took my 2004 VW Touareg as I suspected that the flex pipe near the catalytic converter was leaking. My T-Reg only has 69,000 miles but the mileage put me in a catch - 22 because my warranty had expired. This is an expensive part and the labor is expensive as well, in short, the cost for this was going to run me over $2,000.00. This is where Josh Wahl, the manager and owner came in. We had talked it over about his guys inspecting my vehicle and also performing an oil change (as it needed it anyways) and he would advise me as to next steps after the oil change. I took advantage of their clean waiting room, used their wifi, and did some sales calls and had meetings. When the oil was changed, he gave me the bad news. The flex pipe in fact was leaking and I would have to pay to get this fixed. He promised me, however, that he would make some calls and see if he could get it done for free as a flex pipe should not be broken on VW Touareg for those many miles. No sooner did I get home than Josh called me and told me that he had convinced one of the dealers to do this for free! Josh just saved me $2,000!!!!! He gave me the number to call and I have made all of the arrangements...just waiting for the part to come in. Josh EASILY could not have made that call and easily could have helped his monthly revenue. This is a tough economy and small businesses are suffering just like everybody else....Josh chose to do the right thing. God Bless him! This is why I am giving him all of my business from now on. If you are in the near West suburbs I WHOLEHEARTEDLY and WITHOUT HESITATION recommend you go to Hollywood Motors. A plus is that they also know what they are doing with VW's and have the proprietary VW machine to target pesky electronic/computer issues. A final plus is that they are family owned. TR

Kathy P. 11/14/10 I walked into Hollywood Motors on a Saturday afternoon because I had a slow leak in a tire, even though I didn't know that they were closing in five minutes. Josh checked with one of his service workers, and the gentleman said he was happy to stay after closing to help me. I couldn't believe it! Consumers rarely find service like that in today's world. Within a few minutes, the tire was repaired and I was on my way. I told Josh that he had all of my business from that day forward. I went to Hollywood Motors a few weeks ago for a routine oil change. Just as I expected, the service I received was amazing, and I was charged less than half of what I paid for years at those other retailers with bad service and incredibly high prices. If you are looking for a reliable establishment to service your vehicle, Hollywood Motors is the only smart choice.

David M. 04/16/10 Great shop! i brought my 72 westy at this garage without an appointment and they worked on my car the same day. the price is good the owner is a great and friendly guy the shop is clean and the service is great don't be afraid to bring your VW there they work on bikes, old cars, tuned cars and a bunch of stuff, when i went into the garage i saw a cobra so don't be afraid to bring your recent or early days car they will work on it

Gonzo S. 12/31/09 I've been a Hollywood Motors customer for at least four years. We have a Dodge Grand Caravan and a Volkswagen Golf, both of which they've repaired and serviced with oil changes and tires. Jeff and Josh are great, send reminders for regular service and stand behind their work. They have a great local business. About two years ago my van battery died (my kids left an interior light on) and Steve came to my house to restart it -- and they didn't charge me. Today, they resealed my snow blower tire for free. It's little stuff, but it makes a difference. And they're right by a Metra stop, so I can drop off/pick up and still get to work on time. I'll be bringing my cars there for a while.

Mark K. 12/16/09 I have been bringing my vehicles to Hollywood Motors for over ten years. Actually most of my family members do to. I like it because it's convienent to get to and I can take the train to work. One of my vehicle's was a VW Toureg and they save me a ton of money over the dealer. The shop is extremely clean and in my opinion and past experience have done excellant work and very fair pricing. Nice to know I can take my vehicle there instead of going back to my dealer. Gives me great comfort!! Thanks Guy's !!! I read Mark's reviews and find it hard to believe that he had such a negitive comment. One thing in the ten years I have not experienced was not getting called promptly or not getting my car done on time.

Adam M. 10/17/09 I went here for some simple Welding work on my exhaust. A weld had cracked loose on one of the exhaust hangers and needed to be repaired. I normally will not take my car anywhere but stainless steel welding is not something I can do. Spoke to Josh the front desk fella and brought my car in the next morning Saturday. He got me all set by the afternoon and charged me a much lower price than I was expecting. Their work looked good and has held up since.