Three red coilover shock absorbers on a black surface, arranged side by side.

A smooth, safer ride.

Your suspension keeps the tires pressed to the road. When it wears out, the car bounces, dives under braking, leans in turns and takes longer to stop. Because it wears slowly, most drivers do not notice until it is well past due.


Signs of worn suspension

Listen for clunks or knocks over bumps and feel for a floaty or bouncy ride. Watch for the nose dipping hard when you brake, the car drifting on the highway, cupped or uneven tire wear, or oil leaking from a shock or strut. Peninsula potholes and steep driveways speed all of this up.


What we repair

We replace shocks, struts and strut mounts, control arms, ball joints, bushings, sway bar links and coil springs. We inspect the whole system first, so you replace what is actually worn instead of guessing from a noise. After any suspension work that changes the wheel angles, we finish with an alignment. That protects your tires and keeps the car tracking straight.

Why people love A+ Auto Repair
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Free vehicle pick-up and dropoff*

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Loaner vehicles available

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Free shuttle services**

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Earn 3% loyalty rewards

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Best-in-class 3 year / 36,000 mile warranty

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Family owned since 1997

Frequently asked questions

  • How long do shocks and struts last?

    Many last 50,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on roads and driving. Since they wear gradually, we check them at every inspection and let you know when they are getting weak.

  • Should shocks and struts be replaced in pairs?

    Yes. Replacing both on the same axle keeps the car balanced and handling evenly side to side.

  • Do I need an alignment after suspension work?

    Usually yes. Replacing struts, control arms or other parts changes your wheel angles. An alignment afterward keeps the car tracking straight and protects your tires.

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ASE-CERTIFIED TECHNICIANS

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AAA APPROVED

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3 YEAR / 36,000 MILE WARRANTY

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FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1997

REVIEWS

What your neighbors say

We're grateful to have over 2,000 positive reviews from the community.

A+ has been my auto repair shop for the last 5 years. They have an outstanding crew that are always very professional and thorough in assessing the car, identifying issues, and fixing them right the first time. If you have japanese car this is the #1 shop.

Rob M.

This is my first time going to A+ Japanese Auto Repair and I plan to return for other car repair/maintenance services. I appreciate the total transparency and honesty. The complementary ride to and from the shop is extremely helpful. As a bonus they have loyal rewards program and all work is backed by a warranty which they explain what it is. The staff is friendly and answer questions that you have.

Cathy K.

Took my 19 year old Tacoma to A+ Japanese Auto based on the reviews. I knew it needed a 150K service, and they suggested an inspection along with an oil change so they could determine what services were needed. The front office staff was exceptional from the time I made my appointment, arrived to the shop, and discussed the recommended repairs. The technicians took detailed photos shown me by my service provider. She explained all of the details regarding the repairs necessay and helped categorize the repairs based on safety. I was very impressed with this level of service, and highly recommend this business.

Adrienne F.

OUR STORY

Family owned since 1997

The founder of A+ came to the United States from Turkey and started out as a bicycle mechanic, then spent years as a head technician at a dealership. In 1997, in his mid-40s, he opened A+ Japanese Auto Repair in San Carlos. It was a family affair from the first day.

BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY

Ready for honest, expert auto repair?

Book online in under a minute, or call the shop (650) 946-1856. Free vehicle pickup and drop-off, shuttle service, and same-day repairs available.