Chuck And Larry's Transmission

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  • +1 515-266-7256
  • www.chuckandlarrys.com
  • 1511 E Madison Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313, USA

Operating Hours

Monday 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Chuck And Larry's Transmission Introduce

Chuck And Larry's Transmission is an established and highly reputable "Auto Repair Station" located at 1511 E Madison Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313. As a second-generation family-owned and operated business since 1976, they have built a strong legacy of trust and integrity within the Des Moines community. While the exact phone number was not provided in the initial prompt, public information indicates they can be reached for inquiries and appointments, demonstrating their commitment to accessibility for local users.

As an "Auto Repair Station" within the platform category, Chuck And Larry's Transmission specializes in providing comprehensive services and goods primarily focused on vehicle drivetrain components. Their core expertise lies in **transmission, differential, and transfer case repairs**. This specialization means they possess in-depth knowledge and advanced equipment to handle the intricate workings of these critical automotive systems. Beyond their specialized services, they also offer a wide variety of **general automotive repairs**, indicating a capability to address broader vehicle maintenance needs. This dual focus allows them to cater to complex, specialized issues while also serving as a reliable option for common car troubles. Their extensive experience in the field, spanning decades, reinforces their capability as a go-to service provider for challenging automotive problems.

Regarding the environment at Chuck And Larry's Transmission, while detailed descriptive information about the physical layout is not explicitly provided in the reviews, the overwhelmingly positive customer feedback offers strong inferences. Customers consistently praise the staff for being "honest," "competent," and "very willing to explain, and show me, what was wrong." This suggests an environment where transparency and clear communication are paramount. The ability to "take the time to explain the problems and necessary repairs" implies a welcoming and patient atmosphere, rather than a rushed or intimidating one. Furthermore, the anecdote about college kids stranded in sub-zero weather highlights a compassionate and accommodating approach, indicating a friendly and understanding environment where customer well-being is considered. The mention of the shop being "clean and tidy" by one reviewer also points to a professional and organized workspace, which typically translates to efficient operations and a focus on quality. This overall atmosphere fosters trust and makes customers feel "in good hands."

The services offered by Chuck And Larry's Transmission are extensive, with a strong emphasis on their namesake specialization. Their primary services include:

  • **Transmission Services:** This is their core expertise. They are equipped to handle all types of transmissions, including diagnostics, repairs, and custom rebuilt transmissions. Their certified team is trained to address issues such as slipping gears, hard shifting, leaks, and complete transmission overhauls.
  • **Differential Repair:** Another specialized service, focusing on the vehicle's differential, which is crucial for power distribution to the wheels.
  • **Transfer Case Repair:** Essential for four-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive vehicles, addressing issues with the transfer case that distributes power between axles.
  • **General Automotive Services:** Beyond their specializations, they offer a wide variety of general repairs, making them a comprehensive auto repair solution. This could include, but is not limited to, brake services, engine diagnostics, fluid leaks (as shown in a review regarding leaking seals), and other common mechanical issues.
  • **Diagnostic Services:** Their ability to accurately diagnose problems, even when initially misidentified by customers (e.g., an EGR valve instead of a transmission), showcases their strong diagnostic capabilities.
  • **Vehicle Inspections:** Customers mention that the shop often provides a "small list of other trouble areas they notice on the vehicle," demonstrating a thorough inspection process that goes beyond the immediate repair request, like noticing missing lug nuts on a customer's newly installed tires.
These services are backed by a strong commitment to quality, ensuring that they "will never cut corners when it comes to quality."

Several key features define Chuck And Larry's Transmission, contributing to their outstanding reputation. The most prominent feature is their **unwavering honesty and integrity**. This is consistently lauded by customers, who describe them as "always honest" and appreciate that they "will never install parts on your vehicle if it's not needed!" The story of recommending a $200 seal replacement instead of a $2000 transmission replacement perfectly exemplifies this ethical approach. Coupled with honesty is **competence and expertise**. Customers attest to their ability to "fix the problem the first time" and commend their knowledgeable staff, including Tim, who is described as having "spent years in the business and knows the ins and outs of tranny repair." Their **fair and reasonable pricing** is another significant feature, with customers noting that quotes are "much lower than we'd paid for the last transmission job" and that prices are "reasonable." Furthermore, their **excellent communication** stands out; they are "very willing to explain, and show me, what was wrong" and make "the effort to explain and back up their work." The fact that they "respond well when they screw something up" (though rarely needed, based on reviews) speaks to their accountability. As a **family-run business**, they are perceived as taking "pride in their work" and paying "high attention to detail." They also offer convenient features such as **after-hours drop-off** and a **nationwide warranty** on major repairs, enhancing customer convenience and peace of mind.

While specific promotional information like seasonal sales is not explicitly detailed, Chuck And Larry's Transmission leverages its strong reputation and customer-centric approach as its most powerful promotional tool. The consistently stellar reviews, which frequently express sentiments like "Highly recommended" and "I would use this mechanic again," generate robust word-of-mouth advertising. Their motto, "Honest Price for a Job Done Right," encapsulates their promotional message – a commitment to ethical service and quality workmanship. The fact that they are BBB accredited with a five-star rating and have been nominated for industry awards like the "Integrity Award" further enhances their credibility and acts as a strong endorsement. Offering a **nationwide warranty** and **financing options** (upon approved credit) are practical promotional benefits that provide added value and attract customers. They also offer **free local towing with major repair**, which is a significant incentive for customers facing serious vehicle issues. Furthermore, their **military, veteran, and senior discounts** demonstrate a commitment to community support, which also serves as a positive promotional aspect. By focusing on exceptional service, transparency, and customer satisfaction, Chuck And Larry's Transmission fosters loyalty and organic growth, making their satisfied customers their most effective advertisers.

In conclusion, Chuck And Larry's Transmission in Des Moines, IA, is a highly respected "Auto Repair Station" with a specialized focus on transmissions, differentials, and transfer cases, complemented by general automotive repair capabilities. As a second-generation family business established in 1976, they are distinguished by their unparalleled honesty, expertise, fair pricing, and exceptional customer service, including clear explanations and thorough inspections. Their commitment to quality, backed by a nationwide warranty and convenient services like after-hours drop-off and free towing for major repairs, reinforces their position as a trusted and reliable automotive service provider. Their strong reputation and positive customer testimonials serve as their most effective promotional strategy, attracting and retaining a loyal customer base in the Des Moines area.

Chuck And Larry's Transmission Photos

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Chuck And Larry's Transmission 1

Chuck And Larry's Transmission Location

Chuck And Larry's Transmission Customer Reviews

I bought a used Chevy Traverse 2016 with 100k on it. After about 6 months the car was accelerating sluggishly and I noticed a shudder at various times during acceleration and when maintaining highway speeds. There were no codes indicating a problem. My normal mechanic replaced the transmission fluid and thought that might help. It didn't help and things got worse including a couple hard shifts if I wasn't gentle with it. My mechanic quoted me $5800 (ouch!) for a new transmission and torque converter however they recommended I take it to Chuck and Larry's since they are specialists. It was the best recommendation they could have given. Chuck and Larry's staff were incredibly knowledgeable. They spent several hours diagnosing the problem (having the transmission fluid changed by my mechanic didn't help). They determined that likely all I needed was a new torque converter. They also mentioned that while they had the car apart they could fix an oil leak that was giving me problems. All said and done it was a couple days and $2700 for the torque converter and oil leak fix. It's been 2 months and the car drives like a whole new vehicle. I saved $3000 and I don't have to top off the oil every week.

May 31, 2024 · Paul Vincent

Unexpectedly had a transmission failure, I wasn’t sure where to call as I was not familiar with any repair shop. I talked to Tim. He told me he wasn’t sure about time. However I was not in a hurry and had read many good reviews. So I had it towed to him late afternoon. I honestly expected needing a new transmission on my 2008 Buick Envoy. Unexpectedly I received a phone call from Tim. He said they looked at it and it might be a reasonable replacement of the drive shaft but he didn’t promise me and explained other possibilities. I had them fix it and he called the very next day and said my car was ready. He explained what he did and other issues that could possibly happen in the future. He was definitely knowledgeable and very honest with me. I would highly recommend his shop. Excellent service!!

Apr 03, 2024 · Jan Paradise

They are friendly, kind, professional, and even though I am not getting my car worked on by them, they put me at ease with my predicament. Just call them.

Nov 21, 2024 · Jonathan Olsgaard

Fair pricing, knowledgeable staff, quick availability. Had my transmission removed, rebuilt, and reinstalled. They also did a couple of other repairs that could only be done with the transmission removed after asking me first. I appreciate their expertise and professionalism.

Sep 15, 2022 · Brian Thompson

My son is a first year student at DMU. We are not familiar with DesMoines so when his truck broke down, I was looking for a local honest shop for the repair. The owner of Chuck and Larry's , Tim, was a tremendous help and quickly analyzed my problem, fixed it and charged a fair price. That kind of service and help for someone from out of state should tell all you need to know about using them for any automotive repair. I highly recommend Tim and his crew. They are good people and top notch mechanics.

Sep 07, 2016 · Terry Wilson