Certified AC Auto Specialists

(9 reviews)

Auto Repair StationsFloridaHillsborough CountyBrandonSouth Montclair Avenue

Hillsborough County . Florida

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Operating Hours

Monday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday Closed

Certified AC Auto Specialists Introduce

Certified AC Auto Specialists, located at 118 S Montclair Ave, Brandon, FL 33511, USA, positions itself within the "Auto Repair Stations" category, offering a range of automotive services with a particular emphasis, as their name suggests, on air conditioning systems. This auto repair center aims to provide the local community with reliable and affordable car maintenance and repair, though customer experiences suggest a varied reception, particularly concerning communication and diagnostic processes versus the quality of the repair itself.

Environment and Facility

As an auto repair station, Certified AC Auto Specialists would typically operate from a facility equipped for vehicle diagnostics and repair. The physical environment is likely functional, with service bays for performing work on vehicles and a customer reception area. While specific details about the aesthetics or amenities of their waiting area are not provided, the nature of a specialized repair shop often means the focus is on the technical aspects of the service rather than extensive customer luxuries. The address on S Montclair Ave places them in a commercial or industrial zone in Brandon, a common setting for auto repair businesses, suggesting accessibility for customers within the local area.

Services Offered

While the name "Certified AC Auto Specialists" points to a strong focus on air conditioning, the reviews suggest they also handle broader automotive repairs. Their services are expected to include:

  • Automotive Air Conditioning (AC) Diagnostics & Repair: This would be their core specialization, encompassing refrigerant recharges, leak detection and repair, compressor replacement, condenser repair, and addressing electrical issues within the AC system. Given their name, customers would likely seek them out specifically for AC-related problems.
  • General Auto Repair & Maintenance: The second customer review indicates that they are trusted for general repairs on an "old car," suggesting they offer services beyond just AC. These would typically include:
    • Routine maintenance such as oil changes, fluid checks, and filter replacements.
    • Brake inspections and repairs.
    • Engine diagnostics for "check engine" lights and performance issues.
    • Basic electrical system diagnostics and repair.
    • Suspension and steering component checks.
  • Diagnostic Services: Both reviews mention diagnostics. While one experience highlights communication issues regarding the time needed for diagnostics, the service itself is fundamental to identifying vehicle problems accurately.

The scope of their general repair services is not as detailed as their implied AC specialization, but it's evident from customer feedback that they are considered a comprehensive repair shop for trusted general maintenance, particularly for older vehicles.

Key Features and Strengths

Based on the provided customer feedback, Certified AC Auto Specialists exhibits a mix of strengths and potential areas for improvement. Their key strengths appear to be:

  • Specialized AC Expertise: Their name explicitly states "AC Specialists," indicating a deep knowledge base and dedicated equipment for diagnosing and repairing automotive air conditioning systems. This specialization can be a significant draw for customers specifically experiencing AC issues.
  • Honesty and Trustworthiness: The second customer review strongly emphasizes their honesty, stating the "mechanic knows cars inside out and backwards and won't sell you anything you don't need." This is a critical factor for building long-term customer relationships in the auto repair industry, as it addresses a common concern among vehicle owners about unnecessary repairs.
  • Affordable Pricing: The review mentions "Prices are affordable," which is a considerable advantage for customers seeking cost-effective repair solutions, especially for maintaining older vehicles.
  • Prompt Service (for specific customers): While one review details issues with scheduling and diagnostic time, the other states "service is prompt," suggesting that once a vehicle is in the shop, the work is completed efficiently, at least for some types of repairs or for established customers.
  • Commitment to Customer Needs: The positive review highlights that they "go out of their way to do anything you need," indicating a willingness to provide comprehensive support and personalized service for their loyal clientele.
Customer Feedback and Considerations

The two customer reviews present a stark contrast, offering a balanced, albeit mixed, perspective on Certified AC Auto Specialists:

  • The Negative Experience: The first review outlines significant issues with communication and scheduling during the diagnostic phase. The customer experienced confusion regarding the required diagnostic time (initially "a few hours" then "a few days"), and frustration with the receptionist's perceived lack of clarity and understanding of their needs. This suggests a potential area for improvement in customer service training and transparency regarding diagnostic timelines, especially for new inquiries. Such an experience can deter potential new customers who prioritize clear communication and timely service.
  • The Positive Experience: Conversely, the second review paints a picture of a highly trusted and reliable mechanic for an "old car." This customer values the mechanic's deep knowledge ("knows cars inside out and backwards"), honesty ("won't sell you anything you don't need"), affordability, and prompt service. This review highlights the long-term relationship built on trust and consistent positive experiences, suggesting that once customers establish a relationship, they find the service exceptional.

The divergence in reviews might imply that while the technical expertise and honesty of the mechanics are highly regarded, the initial customer interaction and scheduling process could be inconsistent. Potential customers should be prepared to clarify expectations regarding diagnostic time and communication when booking an appointment.

Promotional Information

Given the nature of the business and the customer reviews, Certified AC Auto Specialists' primary promotional assets are likely their reputation for honesty, affordable pricing, and specialized AC expertise. Specific, ongoing promotional offers would typically need to be confirmed directly with the shop. However, general promotional strategies that an auto repair station of this type might employ include:

  • Word-of-Mouth Referrals: Based on the strong positive review, satisfied long-term customers are likely a key source of new business.
  • Affordable Pricing: Continuously offering competitive pricing for both AC and general repairs.
  • Specialized Service Advertising: Promoting their "AC Specialist" designation to attract customers specifically looking for cooling system expertise, particularly in a hot climate like Florida.
  • Transparency in Estimates: Offering clear and honest repair estimates, aligning with their reputation for not selling unnecessary services.
  • Customer Loyalty Programs: While not explicitly mentioned, some shops offer incentives for repeat business, which would align with their strong existing customer relationships.

For current information on services, specific pricing, and to discuss your vehicle's needs, local users are encouraged to contact Certified AC Auto Specialists directly at (813) 409-2020 or +1 813-409-2020. You can also visit their location at 118 S Montclair Ave, Brandon, FL 33511, USA. It is advisable to communicate clearly your expectations regarding diagnostic timelines, especially for initial visits.

Certified AC Auto Specialists Location

Certified AC Auto Specialists Customer Reviews

Called and asked to set an appointment for a diagnostic on my ac system Short story: prepare to not have a vehicle for several days just to diagnose your problem. Go literally anywhere else I’d give less stars if possible Long story: The lady said you need a recharge ? I said no I think maybe I need a new compressor Her: oh first you have to do a diagnostic Me: uhh I know Her: okay can you drop it off Tuesday ? We will need it for a few hours Me : sorry can’t do Tuesday, I’m getting an alignment Her: you need an alignment? Me: no I have an appointment elsewhere already for one I need AC repair, what day beside Tuesday can you do Her : oh okay Wednesday ? Me: yes I can leave it from 10-4 Wednesday Her: wellllll we will need it for a few days Me: days? You said a few hours? Her: uhhhhh welllll I can’t fix the problem. Let me check my schedule and call you back Me : no thanks I’ll go to a better shop

May 20, 2023 · Tanner Alford

I have an old car that I love very much and intend to never give up. This is the only mechanic shop that I trust to do repairs on my car. The mechanic knows cars inside out and backwards and won't sell you anything you don't need. Prices are affordable, service is prompt, and they'll go out of their way to do anything you need.

Jul 03, 2012 · Kaitlin Kino

I have an old car that I love very much and intend to never give up. This is the only mechanic shop that I trust to do repairs on my car. The mechanic knows cars inside out and backwards and won't sell you anything you don't need. Prices are affordable, service is prompt, and they'll go out of their way to do anything you need.

Jul 03, 2012 · Kaitlin Kino

Hours state 9 a.m. Had an appointment, that i made a week prior, for 9:00 a.m. but nobody was there. Waited 15 minutes before leaving. Also, it is unclear if this business is a mechanic or a car sales lot. I would be weary of this location.

Jun 04, 2020 · Derrick Morse

Hours state 9 a.m. Had an appointment, that i made a week prior, for 9:00 a.m. but nobody was there. Waited 15 minutes before leaving. Also, it is unclear if this business is a mechanic or a car sales lot. I would be weary of this location.

Jun 04, 2020 · Derrick Morse

The lady said could drop my car off and leave the keys in it if we are still there she said lol

Apr 07, 2022 · Jordan Visage

The lady said could drop my car off and leave the keys in it if we are still there she said lol

Apr 07, 2022 · Jordan Visage

Site said they were open Saturdays. They are not.

Feb 03, 2018 · John McIntosh

Site said they were open Saturdays. They are not.

Feb 03, 2018 · John McIntosh