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Review Highlights
“When I moved to Marin 7 years ago, I needed to find a place that would love (or at least appreciate) my Audi as much as I do.” in 5 reviews
“The mechanics at Hi-Tec are true mechanics as opposed to those that can only rely on what a computer tells them.” in 19 reviews
“Brad told me it would be done by Wednesday but called me on Monday evening to tell me they completed it earlier.” in 18 reviews
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About the Business
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![Photo of Deven Wailes D.](https://s3-media0.fl.yelpcdn.com/buphoto/hzhVd1bN4e4ewhBPo6JM9w/90s.jpg)
Deven Wailes D.
Hi Tec offers factory recommended scheduled maintenance for Porsche & audi. We can also custom tailor a maintenance schedule based on your needs. We have the factory computers needed for check engine diagnosis, and our technicians, in addition to being ASE certified, have model specific Porsche & Audi training.
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Overall rating
62 reviews
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- Apr 25, 2017
I am German but that is not the reason I drive a Porsche. It was just the best fitting car available. It could have been an xfiniti again or some other nice SUV. But we got the Porsche from sonnen. Also a German owned company.
But the service over there at sonnen sucks at least in our case. Promised call backs where forgotten, things that have been talked about ignored well that kind that brings you away from your car dealer ship. But I am so glad I found these guys. They doing Porsche as it is there's. Always fast and well original parts aren't cheap but they try to be reasonable in labor. So if you have a German car make sure you stop by when you have trouble with your garage. Its worth to stop by and let them have a look. Thanks guysHelpful 1Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0 - Feb 19, 2024
I have been taking my 2015 Boxster here for years. I would never take it anywhere else. The entire crew is knowledgeable, skilled, and professional.
They have both a repair and sales side, so I often poke my head into the sales side to see some amazing beauties.
Doesn't matter if you have a classic 70's Porsche, or something brand new - this is the shop to work with.Helpful 0Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0 - Erik F.Petaluma, CA10022Aug 19, 2024
I used Hi-Tech for a few years to service my '06 911 and had trusted them wholeheartedly. However when I purchased an '83 930 and took it to them for an initial inspection, I was sadly exposed to an entirely different side.
I had made numerous calls for advice to Brad throughout my purchase process from a private owner. The car had not seen service in many years. From my initial test drive of the car it was clear something was not right. It was very hard to drive the clutch, it was super tight. I had also noticed the idle rise about 500 rpm when the clutch was depressed. I am NO mechanic, just an enthusiast and these issues were readily apparent to me. I was also new to Air cooled 911's so did not no what was normal and what was not.
Upon Brad's advice I took the car to them for a 30k service b/c that is what the odometer showed. Our understanding was that a PPI like inspection would be part of that service. Seemed like a perfect plan as I needed to know what was what with the car.
I had an appointment for a Monday but had a work trip that week so I took that car in on the Friday before I left it there for the week I was gone. I met with Brad during drop off but as we talked through some stuff we were interrupted a few times by another customer. I neglected to mention the idle and clutch issues I had noticed. Again they seemed obvious to me and surely the EXPERTS of air cooled Porsche's would certainly notice.
Well the following Monday (day of the appointment) and Tuesday went by and I did not receive a call from Brad. I assumed I would get an assessment call and then need to approve any work items. By mid-day Wednesday I called them. Brad sounded hurried and scattered and said everything was great and they were almost done. He said a few mechanics drove the car and thought it was great to which I took surprise but thought well ok great. . what do I know.
Friday came and called to come get the car. I was told all was great. I asked well what about the idle issue. Brad said "what idle issue". Oy boy . . .
When I arrived a few hours later the entire story changed. Now suddenly I was told the motor needed a rebuild that something was not right with the crank. But here please pay us the $2500 bill for servicing your engine!
These experts had not noticed what was so obvious to me. How is that possible I thought??
The way I can best understand, they did not touch my car until late Thursday or early Friday. Did a quick oil change and valve adjustment without any sort of inspection or analysis. What I wanted as a customer more than anything was the inspection and analysis. What THEY wanted was to sell me a 30k inspection. Essentially a $2500 oil change and valve adjustment.
I am upset with them because even though Brad took responsibility for never actually inspecting the car (in follow up emails) he would not take any fiscal responsibility. All of their work was useless and thrown out and the motor needed a total rebuild.
They are a busy shop, they clearly do mostly very good work. We are all human and make mistakes. It would have been very gratifying if they had given me ANY sort of discount/fiscal acknowledgment and accountability for not doing the work that I as a customer wanted vs what they were focused on. They hurried my job and missed a major issue but wanted full payment anyway.
Brad and I exchanged numerous emails where he acknowledged what I said above but refused ANY sort of fiscal responsibility. I see them as small minded, individuals unable to see past their own desires. It is unfortunate because I liked them very much. I tried very hard to reconcile but was refused.
I do not recommend working with these guys.Helpful 0Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0 - Abraham B.San Diego, CA45362Jan 12, 2024
I took my new to me 2001 boxster for a post-purchase inspection after driving up from LA.
Part of this inspection includes battery, "scan," "hold down," and "cables." See my attached photos for proof.
The next drive after inspection my car was acting funny electronically and stopped completely while at a red light. Complete death. I had to push it aside and wait hours for a jump to pop the frunk.
I was extremely disappointed to find that the only problem was that the battery negative cable terminal had slipped off. Hi Tec did NOT reattach the clamp properly or failed to tighten it during their inspection. This kind of super simple problem could have been prevented with some attention to detail--which is what I thought I was paying for.
I am disappointed by the level of attention to detail they displayed with my P car and I would recommend that others avoid this shop. I hope Hi Tec can do better work in the future for others or make it up to me personally.
Update, in response to the business owner: I think the battery portion which includes scan and check of the cables should have caught this. Part of a battery scan involves looking at/interacting with the terminals and the cable check should include checking the ends of the cables (terminals).Helpful 1Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 1Business owner information
Deven W.
Jan 12, 2024
We are sorry to hear that this happened, Abraham, but we are not liable for a mistake made by whoever originally installed the battery in your car. We didn’t remove or install your battery and had no reason to believe that one of the terminal clamps was not secure.
When we tested the battery (while installed in the vehicle) it was not obvious that the terminal clamp was loose. The battery cables were in good shape without any fraying and corrosion. When we test drove your car the electrical system was operating normally at that time. We did, however, notice that the hold-down bracket and bolt were left lying next to the battery, and we installed those for you. - Richard K.Sausalito, CA05Feb 19, 2024
I had my two porsches, a 911 and a 356 serviced at Hi Tec for many years. Looking for an honest mechanic? There is none better than Deven!
When I had to sell my cars I turned to Greg at Hi Tec Sales. The first thing he asked me was whether I really wanted to sell, as parting with classics can be an emotional experience. He found a buyer for the 911 right off the bat and recommended selling the 356 at auction. He did an outstanding job in the presentation and kept me informed every step of the way. Due to his fastidious attention to detail, the car sold at a very satisfactory price. In my opinion, Greg is a consummate professional and his low key persona made a difficult parting bearable.
Richard K
Muir BeachHelpful 0Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0 - Mike B.San Francisco, CA0157Mar 7, 2023Updated review
Hi Brad,
I read what you wrote, but the car is is only kept inside for 20 years, and ALWAYS ran. I literally drove it there. Never any issues. The motor worked. You did a tune up - Now the motor doesn't work.
-$2100 (1st) with you, and It didn't run when I tried to pick it up (now engine doesn't work), then
- $2800 (2nd) service (read previous review where Owner Deven told me I need to replace drop link (but they just "replaced" it lol)
I picked it up the 3rd time, drove it home, and now the car doesn't run at all. RECAP: $5,000, time there Nov-March, and the car that always ran, now the motor doesn't even run.
The car always ran. I bring it to you and the only way it will move is with a flatbed tow truck.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/t2bi4lqhywe41w8/Thanks%20.mp4?dl=0
Anyone that cares about their car shouldn't bring it to Hi Tec. That's the point.
You have no integrity. In fact, I have new issues (noise in 1st gear wasn't noted at initial inspection (attached), drop link that was "replaced", needs replaced, and the whole motor not working - I mean, It always worked and you suggested a tune up - now it doesn't.
No one should bring their car there.
ATTACHED:
-"Check Engine" current status non running engine - taken today.
-Initial Inspection - No noise noted -
-Tune up Invoice $2100 - supposedly drop link fixed
-Tune up Invoice $2881 - supposedly tune up
RESULT:
Engine doesn't work and you suggest fix the drop link (supposedly you replaced.
Buyer beware 10xHelpful 2Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0Business owner information
Deven W.
Mar 3, 2023
This is Brad, manager of Hi Tec. I spoke with you during your third visit here. You also spoke to Julian and Deven (the owner, who was only involved at the very end of your time here).
To clarify the details of your review, here is the original list of items that you wanted us to address before bringing the car in (from your first e-mail to us):
• Shifting Tough 1st gear: (the link keeps falling out the bottom?); (Did engine mounts 2022) but transmission 1st gear, etc.
• Need clutch accumulator, OR adjust button under clutch to start car easier?
• Current engine code - probably the o2 sensor AGAIN lol… omg lol
• Right side turbo starting to leak - replace / rebuild w variable turbo: Replace / rebuild w variable turbo (I think I have 2 extra lol)
• Air filter: Evolution Motorsports; Send me link, I can order if prefer; (Not Air Filter: K&N: RU-1036)
• Pinned half of coolant lines, but not the other half; IF we drop engine - do the rest?
• Oil Separator? (…although no smoke last 2-3 years tho) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=trlwekbXbkU
• 996 Sensor Code: https://rennlist.com/forums/996-gt2-gt3-forum/654390-cel-problem-help.html
• Cup holder suggestions: https://www.suncoastparts.com/product/PK9X6CUP.html
• Back light savers: https://rennfix.com/light-savers-ii
• Tires: 5+ Years:
• 997 Rotors / brakes;
• GT3 Rear sway bar?
Since it was your first time here with a vehicle that had not been in our shop before, and because the car is 20 years old, we suggested to start with a basic mechanical inspection. We then discussed the inspection details with you and, based on your approval, replaced the battery, sway bar drop links, clutch accumulator and performed a minor service.
We also confirmed that the tires were in fact old and should be replaced, and that the front brakes were close to the minimum thickness (4mm). There was no further discussion about the other items on your list, and you decided to pick up the car as is.
To clarify what you refer to as “a new $2500 problem that didn’t exist before”.
We locked your car out for pick up Friday evening, and then it proceeded to rain. The car was back here in the parking lot the next Monday for what you described as “the engine does not work”. We asked you about previous major service history to find out when the spark plugs were last replaced. We were not able gather this information, but we discussed possible diagnostic routes, and you agreed to have us remove the ignition coils and spark plugs to check the condition and replace them if needed. After removing and inspecting the coils and spark plugs, we discovered that the ignition coils had cracks in them. The coils, when in good condition, are sealed to prevent water from getting inside of them, but with cracks they can short out from humidity and moisture on the road. With your approval, we proceeded to replace the ignition coils and spark plugs (which were also worn), and then the engine ran normally.Mar 2, 2023Previous reviewDO NOT BRING YOUR CAR HERE.
* Definitely a place you recommend to someone you don't like. *
Dropped of the car, and the 1st time I picked up the car from them, the engine didn't even work. Literally couldn't drive it, so had to leave it there. For a another $2,500 they can fix a "new" issue that didn't exist before. You can drive your car there, but you can't drive it back home. Literally the car engine worked when I dropped it off to them -
Drop-link was replaced and "fixed" by them, and the 3rd time bringing it back, the Owner Deven said I needed to fix the drop link. Owner is literally recommending I fix something, they already supposedly fixed! It's still broken -
You bring an itemized list of things to fix... but brought car there 3X, and worse off. Not even half the stuff done, and more stuff is broken than fixed. Really great at receiving $, fixing 1/2 the stuff and creating new and improved issues. Absolute slop.
This is a legitimate review, Hi Tec: 779 Anderson Dr. San Rafael. Agree with Fenasi's experience 100% - not good, or honest people. Also Sean's Review... EXACTLY: Fixed a LIGHT 2x, but light still goes out. Your lucky it was just a light.
WALK AWAY. - Fenasi K.Tiburon, CA4145110May 26, 2021Updated review
Dear Deven,
Unfortunately it is not a fictitious review. My car did come there and you are the only person who helped me. The only Hi-Tec Auto I have been to is the one located at 779 Anderson Dr in San Rafael, where you are located.
Instead of being honest and talking about how to solve the problem you decided to milk me and my insurance company.
I highly recommend getting a NAS and having records at two different addresses (they talk to each other). Obviously you are not good at keeping records.
Also, you could contact me through Yelp, it is not off. Why lying? Not that I am saying you should....
There is nothing else to clarify other than what's written here. Everything written here are the facts and truth and I approve this message.
I feel I need to point this out publicly that you are not a good an honest mechanic.Helpful 2Thanks 0Love this 2Oh no 1Mar 17, 2021Previous reviewI hit the rear end bottom of my 911 and cracked the oil pan. Instead of stopping I kept driving,oil leaked and the engine seized. It wouldn't crank, nothing... Completely dead! I brought the car to Hi-tech. What would an honest mechanic with years of experience do? Tell you to get a new engine or have the engine rebuilt right? Not here, he changed the oil pan. And called me to say he changed it but nothing happened. Didn't you know? Then he wanted to rebuild the engine. I declined and totalled the car.
If he was honest in the beginning I would have let him rebuild the engine probably instead he charged $1400 for nothing (cracked pan changeand refill oil) and $75 a day parking fee...
After this incident I bought 2 more Porsche's but not going there ever again. - Sean A.Sausalito, CA106243Jun 30, 2021
meh. I took my car in for a basic service and to fix the rear light indicator warning that would come on randomly, despite the lights working fine.
They replaced the lights anyway and gave the car back. The warning indicator lit up on the drive home, so I guess they didn't check to see if the repair worked. No big deal.
I bring it back, they said they fixed it. On the drive home the lights came on again.
I bring it back, they said they fixed it. Indicator lights turn on after driving for 5 minutes.
They also didn't put the car back together properly, one of the panels was hanging off.
At this point I gave up. I wish they would actually check to see if the repair worked before giving the car back. Huge waste of time.Helpful 3Thanks 0Love this 1Oh no 0 - Sibylle C.San Francisco, CA01May 24, 2023
Rudest ever - do not go there. The worst experience just walking in the door: Shockingly bad. They should be embarrassed.
Helpful 2Thanks 1Love this 1Oh no 0 - Nick M.San Carlos, CA09Feb 6, 2023
Coolant leak on a Porsche I just purchased from a private party. Took me in right away and were extremely professional. Explained diagnosis right away and gave an accurate time estimate. Awesome shop.
Helpful 0Thanks 0Love this 0Oh no 0 - Jeff L.San Francisco, CA022Nov 10, 2022
The staff at Hi-Tec are highly experienced, professional and very friendly. You can't find a better car repair/maintenance service anywhere, particularly for Porsche, Audi, BMW etc. They recently let me come by for a last minute repair which was a life-saver. Hi-Tec...Yes!! Thank you so much!!
Helpful 0Thanks 0Love this 1Oh no 0
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