Santo’s Italian Car Service

I was very impressed by Santo. I thought I had a bit of a running issue with my Spider. Left it with Santo. He adjusted the carbs, checked over the fuel system and did lots of test driving — all at NO CHARGE. I respect that because I work in the auto repair business, but in the area of body and paint.
As for negative comment from SaraB — no one is perfect in this world and perhaps some of our expectations are met at the first attempt. We are all human though. It may take more than one attempt at getting it right. It’s the dedication that counts.
BTW, if you ever wanted to go to an Alfa museum in Italy but are bit short on time and money, stop by Santo’s place. I now remember how it used to feel walking into a candy store)).

I have previously posted a 5 star review of Santos’ shop and have used their service several times since. They continue to do excellent, reliable work at very reasonable prices. They are friendly and take the time to speak to you. I found Sara B’s comments to be, quite frankly, unbelievable. I bought an 82 Spider about three years ago and it was in fair shape, in need of a lot of work. I initially spent around $ 3000 (the car only cost $ 1500) on repairs at Santos’ shop and it worked well. Still, there were several other issues (come on, it’s an old car that was not maintained). Over time Santos patiently fixed everything and for the past two years the car has been a dream to drive and I use it as a regular driver. This is all due to the work of Santo and his people. As you can read, Sara B’s review is the only negative one. If you have an old Alfa in need of work, I highly recommend Santo. His shop is the best. Santo and his son Anthony are good, honest, hard working people who explain things carefully and don’t take advantage of neophytes, such as myself.

First off — Santos and his crew are very likable and friendly people.
Unfortunately though, my experience was very negative. The level of work is mediocre at best;
I had major work (about $ 8000) done and about everything was put together half-​heartedly. A few issues were apparent immediately and I had to go back multiple times others developed within a time period too short for that particular part.
I am aware of their good reputation. But I also talked to quite a few people who had work done and will not go back there. I’d say, there is a chance that you get lucky at their place, but you need to be totally on top of it, and willing to go back multiple times if you get a major repair or rebuild done.

If you drive or race a classic Italian car in live anywhere in SoCal, you need to be working with the Rimicci’s. Santo and Anthony have years of experience which shows in their street and track cars. My family has been friends and customers for 20+ years and would never think of going anywhere else. My families Alfa’s would never be found anywhere but at this shop.
The best proof for your business is the tour of the shop which includes a number of rare and unique cars, many with track pedigree. If you happen to be at a SoCal vintage race you will probably see a slew of Alfa’s out front adorned with Santo’s windshield decals. Santo and son know the work and their work is top notch.

This is the place for your vintage alfa-romeo…period. Santo and his son Anthony have been restoring, half a dozen or so… of my endless passion to this mark of fantastic hand built cars… they are extreemly fair, superbly talanted and honest in everything that i have thrown at them,
i have always reccomended all my friends to this facility… who are as happy as i am… all the best…,
Haig

If you want straight forward, knowledgeable, honest, friendly Italian car mechanic that specializes on Alfa Romeos, Santo is it. Pleasant and very knowledgeable. Will not do anything half ass

The guys on the
web forum recommend this place highly if you live in SoCal and need service on your Alfa. The other two are John’s Alfa Romance and Alfa West in Long Beach. Good luck!