Central Automotive & Radiator

(47 reviews)

Auto Repair StationsOhioErie CountySanduskyCentral Avenue

Erie County . Ohio

Close Now

  • Overview
  • Intro
  • Photos
  • Location
  • Reviews

Operating Hours

Monday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Central Automotive & Radiator Introduce

For vehicle owners in Sandusky, OH, seeking automotive repair and maintenance services, Central Automotive & Radiator is an establishment operating within the Auto Repair Stations category. Located at 1621 Central Ave, Sandusky, OH 44870, USA, this business offers a range of services designed to address various vehicle issues. They can be contacted via phone at (419) 621-0017, which also serves as their mobile number, facilitating direct communication for inquiries and service scheduling.

Central Automotive & Radiator, as implied by its name, offers specialized services in radiator repair, which encompasses diagnostics, repair, and replacement of cooling system components. This is a critical area of vehicle maintenance, particularly for preventing overheating and ensuring engine longevity. Beyond their radiator specialization, the "Auto Service" portion of their name indicates they provide more general automotive repairs. This likely includes services such as muffler repair, as noted in the customer feedback, which involved fixing bolts on a muffler. They also appear to perform diagnostic services for various vehicle systems, such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) light issues, and assess other critical components like brakes. Their offerings would typically cover a range of common mechanical repairs that an "Auto Repair Station" would handle, including fluid changes, belt replacements, and general vehicle inspections. While the specific breadth of their general auto services isn't fully detailed, their reported ability to diagnose and quote repairs for issues like ABS and brakes suggests they cater to a broader spectrum of mechanical problems beyond just cooling systems.

The environment at Central Automotive & Radiator, as a typical auto repair station, would be equipped to handle various vehicle repair tasks. While detailed descriptions of their facility are not provided, it's reasonable to expect a functional garage space with vehicle lifts, tools, and equipment necessary for diagnosing and repairing automotive systems. A professional repair shop generally maintains an organized workspace to ensure efficiency and safety for both technicians and vehicles. There would typically be a reception or waiting area for customers to consult with staff, discuss their vehicle's issues, and handle payments. The operational environment prioritizes the technical aspects of car repair. However, the customer reviews provide critical insight into the perceived professional conduct within this environment. The customer's experience suggests that transparency in diagnostics and recommendations is a key concern for visitors, implying that the interaction within the service environment, particularly regarding advice given, heavily influences customer perception of the shop's integrity.

The features of Central Automotive & Radiator, based on the provided information, include their specialization in radiator and cooling system services, their capability for general auto repair, and their diagnostic services for issues like ABS and brakes. They are equipped to perform muffler repairs, as evidenced by the quick fix of muffler bolts. The shop offers diagnostic services to identify the root cause of vehicle problems, such as an illuminated ABS light. A notable feature is their ability to provide quotes for parts and labor after diagnosis. However, the customer feedback raises significant concerns regarding the reliability and trustworthiness of their diagnostic recommendations. The identical reviews from a single customer specifically highlight an instance where a diagnosis for "nearly gone" brake pads was contradicted by another mechanic who found "about 80% of pad left." This directly impacts the perceived feature of honest and accurate diagnostics. For an auto repair station, trust and integrity in recommendations are paramount features, and the discrepancy noted by the customer could lead to a diminished perception of their honesty. While they provide essential services, the consistency and accuracy of their assessments, especially for less visible components like brake pads, appear to be a point of contention.

Regarding promotional information, specific details about current offers or advertising campaigns for Central Automotive & Radiator are not provided. Like many auto repair stations, their promotion would typically involve relying on local reputation, customer referrals, and potentially online presence through business listings. For a shop that handles a mix of specialized radiator work and general auto service, they might aim to attract customers through their dual expertise. However, the highly negative customer feedback, particularly concerning what was perceived as an unnecessary repair recommendation, could significantly impact their promotional efforts and public image. In the auto repair industry, trust is a crucial factor, and reviews that question a shop's integrity can deter potential customers more effectively than any positive advertisement. A business facing such criticism would typically need to address these concerns head-on to rebuild trust, perhaps through transparent communication about their diagnostic processes, offering clear explanations, and providing opportunities for second opinions. Without specific details on their current promotional strategies, it is difficult to elaborate further, but the impact of public reviews on a business's reputation and ability to attract new clients cannot be overstated. Customers considering Central Automotive & Radiator would be advised to factor in the provided feedback regarding diagnostic practices when making their decision.

Central Automotive & Radiator Location

Central Automotive & Radiator Customer Reviews

Took my elderly mom's car in to have a couple of bolts fixed on the muffler and find out why the ABS light was on. They fixed the muffler, diagnosed the ABS issue, and said the car needed new brakes as pads were nearly gone (almost metal to metal). Parts needed to be ordered for ABS/brakes, but I couldn't wait for them to arrive as we were leaving town. Cost $140 for ABS/brake diagnosis and a $6 muffler part. Took the car to a different mechanic in my home town who said that the brakes still had about 80% of pad left. Makes me wonder how many times my mom paid them for unnecessary repairs on previous visits there.

May 02, 2025 · Crista Mondt

Took my elderly mom's car in to have a couple of bolts fixed on the muffler and find out why the ABS light was on. They fixed the muffler, diagnosed the ABS issue, and said the car needed new brakes as pads were nearly gone (almost metal to metal). Parts needed to be ordered for ABS/brakes, but I couldn't wait for them to arrive as we were leaving town. Cost $140 for ABS/brake diagnosis and a $6 muffler part. Took the car to a different mechanic in my home town who said that the brakes still had about 80% of pad left. Makes me wonder how many times my mom paid them for unnecessary repairs on previous visits there.

May 02, 2025 · Crista Mondt

Beware of racist staff! Have seen a bigger white male with a large beard come out yelling racial slurs and getting into shouting fights with customers. In fact, there is a video circulating local Facebook groups of this man getting led off in handcuffs, with citizens honking at him and clapping. Man doesn't deserve a family to spend Christmas with!

Dec 24, 2024 · Jacob Bacci

Beware of racist staff! Have seen a bigger white male with a large beard come out yelling racial slurs and getting into shouting fights with customers. In fact, there is a video circulating local Facebook groups of this man getting led off in handcuffs, with citizens honking at him and clapping. Man doesn't deserve a family to spend Christmas with!

Dec 24, 2024 · Jacob Bacci

Every time I bring my car to them to fix a problem at least one new problem is created. I get my plate light fixed, my automatic trunk opener gets broken. I get my passenger side mirror replaced, my door panel gets broken. And in every case they deny having caused the problem and offer no helpful solution. Highly considering reporting them to BBB.

May 15, 2024 · Samhain

Very discourteous and unprofessional. Decided to call and check if this place were good business worth having and within the 30 second encounter I was given, let’s just say it wasn’t what I was expecting. First the guy was very rude from the start, then he decided to hang the phone up after absolutely no consultation and before I could even ask for the information I was looking for. This has never happened to me at any professional place of work before. Not sure if I actually called someone’s personal line from their backyard garage or a business line but that just does not look good for business and was highly disrespectful.

Jun 19, 2023 · Javez Alexander

Very discourteous and unprofessional. Decided to call and check if this place were good business worth having and within the 30 second encounter I was given, let’s just say it wasn’t what I was expecting. First the guy was very rude from the start, then he decided to hang the phone up after absolutely no consultation and before I could even ask for the information I was looking for. This has never happened to me at any professional place of work before. Not sure if I actually called someone’s personal line from their backyard garage or a business line but that just does not look good for business and was highly disrespectful.

Jun 19, 2023 · Javez Alexander

Only place I take my cars. Tom has been in this business for a very long time. I'm always satisfied with the job.

Jul 17, 2024 · Sharon Geffert

Only place I take my cars. Tom has been in this business for a very long time. I'm always satisfied with the job.

Jul 17, 2024 · Sharon Geffert