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Neal's Garage
Your trusted Durham auto repair shop—honest service, quality parts, and reliable fixes since 1978.
3.4(5 reviews)
$$
auto-repair
auto-repair
auto-parts-and-supplies
Comprehensive engine diagnostics and repair services to fix check engine lights and other issues.
Official NC state vehicle inspections to ensure your car meets safety and emissions standards.
Inspection, repair, and replacement of brake pads, rotors, and calipers for safe stopping.
Diagnosis and repair of air conditioning issues, including coolant refills and condenser replacements.
Routine oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks to keep your car running smoothly.
Quality auto parts available for purchase with professional installation services.
Your trusted Durham auto repair shop—honest service, quality parts, and reliable fixes since 1978.
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Neal's Garage is a full-service auto repair and parts shop in Durham, NC, dedicated to keeping your vehicle running safely and efficiently. With decades of experience, we specialize in diagnostics, state inspections, brake repairs, AC service, oil changes, and more. Our team prioritizes transparent communication and fair pricing, whether you drive a classic beater or a modern Tesla. We offer loaner cars for convenience and focus on building long-term trust with every customer. Visit us for honest advice and reliable auto care.
I went in because of vibration when braking my 2027 Tesla Model S. It has never had brake work, so I was braced for a hefty repair bill. They told me that the rotors were a little warped, but unless it really bothered me, there was no need for a repair. When was the last time the garage told you to save your money? They earned customer for life today.
My husband and I decided to go to Neal's after our more local mechanic downtown moved farther out. Initially just oil changes and inspections. Then my husband's car had issues. They milked that issue into 3 different repairs - totaling $2200. Finally, before the last repair, my son-in-law took a look at the car and identified the issue (as it turns out, correctly). So when I took it in to get that fixed, we had success. I probably should have stopped there, but I went back for oil changes as it was just easier. Two 'appointments' in a row we just blown through as 'oops'. I walked around for an hour, killing time on 9th street in the cold and rain, only to find out they hadn't gotten to it. Ok, shit happens. But then they did it the second time - on the return appointment. The ultimate audacity was they were a bit puzzled that I was unhappy. So no - I'm done with Neal's. Cause it's one thing to get a diagnosis wrong, but basic service and respecting customer's time - that's totally 'fixable'.
So state inspection time was coming up and my car had been showing me the check engine like (aka “you shall not pass”). Donnie and the team at Neal’s have been amazing! Navigating the multiple repairs, diagnostics, and DMV was extremely painful, but I can’t say how much I want to thank Donnie for putting in the countless hours they did to keep my beater car up and running (for a relatively little amount of money).
I took my car to Neal's in April 2025 because the air conditioning on my car was not working. They drained, refilled and pressurized the coolant system, which got the AC working again, but did not tell me that the underlying problem was a leaking condenser. Based on the information they provided, I assumed that the issue was fixed. Then, four months later, the AC failed again. I had to go to another mechanic to find out that the condenser needed to be replaced. This was after Neal's charged me almost double what I usually pay for a routine oil change and tire rotation. Lesson learned - I won't be back!
After being in Durham going on 3 years now, I finally found the right auto mechanic. If I could give these guys six stars I would, and after the last experience I had where I took my car to carmedix only for them to not have fixed my car after literally 8 visits and about 2500 dollars (check out my Carmedix review if you're in the mood for a good horror story) But I digress... Everyone at Neal's was courteous, professional, kind, and polite and they gave me a loaner car for a few days while they waited for an OEM part I had specified to come in from the manufacturer. Thank you very much!! Awesome all around.
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