Kracken Performance Tuning

Situated at 18558 NW Frontage Rd, Joliet, IL 60404, USA, Kracken Performance Tuning operates as an "Auto Repair Station" that aims to serve the automotive needs of local users in Joliet and the surrounding areas. Unlike many general repair shops, Kracken Performance Tuning appears to specialize in advanced automotive modifications and performance enhancements, alongside offering more standard vehicle maintenance and diagnostic services.

The information available online, particularly through reviews, gives a mixed but insightful picture of the environment at Kracken Performance Tuning. One review describes the shop as "never crowded with cars," which could imply efficient operations and quick turnaround times, or perhaps a niche clientele. The general atmosphere, as depicted by a positive customer, is one of professionalism and good customer service. The implied presence of "Ross" as a key figure or owner suggests a direct, possibly hands-on approach to customer interactions. For a shop specializing in performance tuning, the environment would typically include dedicated bays for intricate work, specialized tools for engine diagnostics and tuning, and potentially a clean, organized space to work on high-value or highly modified vehicles. Given its performance focus, it's likely they have specialized equipment for tasks like dyno tuning, although this is mentioned as "coming soon" on one service list, suggesting ongoing development of capabilities.

Kracken Performance Tuning positions itself as more than just a repair shop; it delves deep into automotive performance. Their range of services, gleaned from online sources, is extensive and caters to both everyday vehicle needs and high-performance modifications:

• Performance Upgrades: This is a key area of their expertise. They offer custom turbo setups, custom fuel and intercooler systems, suspension upgrades, upgraded brakes, and big brake kits. They also perform corner balancing and track setups, indicating a focus on optimizing vehicles for enhanced driving dynamics.
• Engine & Transmission Services: Their capabilities include comprehensive engine builds and swaps, engine diagnostics, and cylinder head service. They also handle transmission builds and swaps, clutch replacements, and work on shifters and bushings. This suggests a deep mechanical understanding of a vehicle's powertrain.
• Customization & Fabrication: Beyond bolt-on parts, Kracken Performance Tuning offers fabrication services, powder coating, custom wiring, and engine electronics installations. They also deal with the sales and installation of various aftermarket parts like front lips, hoods, side skirts, spoilers, wings, and diffusers, as well as interior upgrades.
• Maintenance & General Repair: While specializing in performance, they also provide essential general automotive services. These include 30K/60K/90K maintenance, A/C repair and service, EVAP/boost leak testing, compression/leak down testing, brake service, alignments (including performance alignments), tire mounting/balancing, oil changes/fluid replacements, timing belts, and walnut blasting. This makes them a potentially versatile choice for both routine and advanced care.
• Tuning and Diagnostics: They offer OBD/CAN diagnostics, base tune files, and power management tuning. Dyno tuning is also mentioned as a future offering or service in development, which is crucial for precise performance calibration.
• Additional Services: Other services listed include build planning and consultation, window tinting, detailing/ceramic coating, and wheel/tire sales and installation.

The features of Kracken Performance Tuning are reflected in the contrasting customer experiences available. One positive review highlights "very reasonable prices," "great turn around time," and "very professional and great customer service." This suggests that for some clients, the shop delivers on its promises of efficiency, professionalism, and affordability, leading to a desire for repeat business. This positive feedback points to a shop that, at its best, is focused on providing quality service and building client relationships. The phrase "shop never crowded with cars" might be seen as a feature in itself, implying that appointments are managed well and vehicles aren't left waiting for extended periods, potentially leading to faster service delivery.

However, an objective introduction necessitates acknowledging significant negative feedback. A highly critical review paints a very different picture, alleging major issues with communication, honesty, and service quality. This customer claims to have been told a price for truck work, only to be informed the next day that it "wasn't worth his time" by "Ross." Further accusations include being "lied to" about accepting payment or warranty methods, having the car held for a week without repair due to these issues, and refusal to address a reported coolant leak while attempting to "sell on repairing an oil leak." The review also states that a "knocking sound" was not fixed, a wheel alignment was done "3x and steering wheel is still crooked," and a tie rod repair made the car "sound worse now than it did before." The customer concludes by accusing the shop of refusing "to take any responsibility for poor customer service, misinformation, wasting my time and money."

These contradictory reviews indicate that customer experiences at Kracken Performance Tuning can vary significantly. While some find "professional and great customer service" and "reasonable prices," others report serious dissatisfaction related to communication, follow-through, and the quality of repairs, particularly from the individual identified as "Ross." This suggests that prospective clients should approach with caution and perhaps engage in thorough communication to clarify expectations, pricing, and capabilities before committing to services, especially for complex or specialized work.

Direct promotional offers or deals are not explicitly provided in the given information. For a performance tuning shop, promotions often involve showcasing successful builds, dyno results, or offering discounts on specific performance packages (e.g., turbo kits, engine swaps) or tuning sessions. The positive review mentions "very reasonable prices," which can act as a form of inherent promotion, suggesting cost-effectiveness. However, the severe negative feedback regarding being "costed... good money to fix his mess" directly contradicts this, indicating that pricing perception and value for money are highly dependent on the individual experience. The strongest "promotion" for a specialized shop like this would typically be its reputation for quality work and positive word-of-mouth within the enthusiast community. The highly divergent reviews suggest that this word-of-mouth is equally divided between strong endorsements and strong warnings.

In summary, Kracken Performance Tuning, located at 18558 NW Frontage Rd, Joliet, IL, is an "Auto Repair Station" that aims to provide both general automotive maintenance and specialized high-performance tuning services. While some customers praise its professional service, reasonable prices, and quick turnaround, others express significant dissatisfaction, citing issues with communication, accountability, and the quality of repairs. Potential customers should weigh these diverse experiences and consider clear, upfront discussions about their specific needs and the shop's capabilities.