The only licensed auto-recycler in the Boston area, Nissenbaum's has been offering a full range of new and used auto parts since 1910. After a century of business this shop is still in family hands, the fifth and sixth generation of Nissenbaum can be found sleeves rolled up and greasy handed going about business. Inside, stacks of tires, used engines on blocks and boxes of auto parts line every wall. The helpful employees behind the counter will scrounge up even the most esoteric part for your vehicle.
Since 1980 owner George Mihos has been fixing dents, setting frames straight and remedying cases of automotive destruction. Utilitarian in design, Tech has only a small office and a single bay, but a steadily moving line of cars make their way into Mihos' restorative grasp. Be aware though, this body shop is set back from Somerville Ave and the sign is not visible until after passing the turn for the shop.
Ge's was purchased by its current owners in 1992. It is a full-service auto repair garage, but the business has gradually become known for its constantly rotating stock of used vehicles for sale.
Though it is tucked away on Joy Street in Somerville among warehouses and other garages, the unmistakable yellow door of Gene Automotive stands out. Offering a wide range of automotive repairs, from brakes, mufflers, front-end work, shocks, struts and tires, the shop specializes in both foreign and domestic cars and trucks. Easily accessible and open six days a week, Gene Automotive is a full-service garage offering service with a smile.
Named after the owner, Shakes, and his uncle, Chicken, this is indeed an auto shop and not a restaurant. Performing a full range of repairs since 1988, this Chicken and Shakes also does body work, an impressive feat for a small privately owned shop. If you stop by you can usually catch Shake bent over a Lincoln enthusiastically teaching his young son the family business.
Specializing in body work, A+ has a cavernous garage and an army of mechanics to take on the masses of vehicles waiting for repair. The management is dedicated to swift and efficient service and the line of customers is always moving briskly. The office is refreshingly comfortable with wood floors, comfortable seating, a TV and a lack of automotive aromas.
Franny's is a full-service auto body shop located on Prospect Street near the corner of Somerville Avenue. It specializes in frame-straightening work and paint restoration.
Aris Auto is part Petrola gas station, part service garage. The garage is a family-owned, full-service repair and preventive maintenance center (not a body shop) that's able to work on any foreign or domestic vehicle. Aris has been in business since 1981, and has an impressive website that explains all available services in more detail; poke around on the site for some coupons. The gentlemen of Aris speak several different languages, will always wash your windshield and have been known to burst into impromptu fits of song. You can also find them on Facebook. Note: American Express is only accepted for garage services, not for gas purchases or state inspections.
A full-service gas station that uniquely doesn't charge for such convenience, Good Gas has been open since 2000. In addition to fuel, this shop also has several lifts and provides a fair amount of mechanical work, including inspections. Good Gas is run by a very sociable staff, English is spoken fluently here, and a conversation is sure to be started if you find yourself waiting for a repair.
This local shop offers extensive repair service to any car including both domestic and foreign vehicles. Four Wheels Auto Repair repairs brakes, air-conditioning, tires and electrical systems. It also sells used cars and offers basic tune-ups.
IDEAL Automotive Services has been family owned and operated since its establishment in 1961. The staff of factory-trained and certified technicians can replace anything from windshield wipers to engines, and can even help customers get a rental car while repairs are being completed. Vehicles can be towed to the on-site garage, and Ideal will accept emergency repair situations without needing an appointment. The office is decorated with letters sent from satisfied customers, including one who admits she learned a life lesson to "not forget to change my oil." Other tips for car maintenance are available on the company's website.
