Steve Smiths Bavarian Motors

We have a 2009 VW Passat Wagon that is our daily drive vehicle. About 2 months ago it started having engine problems, shuddering and skipping every time we drove it. We took it to three mechanics and none of them could figure out what was going on. And one even specialized in VW’s. After spending over $ 500 and not having the problem solved, we were referred to Steve by our regular mechanic. Steve worked his magic, stuck with the problem and was able to fix our car! Steve is extremely knowledgeable and had an idea what the problem could be even before he started his diagnostics. He asked lots of questions and communicated with us along the whole process of repairs, even texting us pictures of the gunked up part. Steve knows his stuff, that is for sure. He even called us after we had driven the car for a few days, just to be sure the problem was solved. Who does that??? Well Steve does and we really appreciate his attention to detail and his dedication. We will stick with him for future repairs and we highly recommend his services.

I have a vintage GMC Motorhome — not exactly a German vehicle — but I have used many auto services in the Santa Cruz area. It’s challenging working on an old custom vehicle and I was never satisfied with the quality of work from other auto repair shops on my GMC so I took it to Steve. Steve helped me install a Holley fuel injection system including re-​plumbing the tanks, and fixed some really tricky electrical issues. He also helped repair some shoddy work done by other local mechanics.
The most important thing that struck me about Steve is his approach to problem solving. He goes back to the basics and ensures that the core functionality is sound. He approaches auto repair like an Engineer. Too many mechanics use «folklore» to diagnose a problem.
Secondly, Steve is a continual learner. He’s never installed the Holley EFI system before but he did a lot of research to figure it out. If he doesn’t know how to address an issue then he thoroughly researches a topic and speaks with experts. Pretty soon he absorbs this knowledge and becomes an expert himself.
Finally, Steve is extremely detail oriented. For example, when he makes an electrical connection he ensures that the join is solid and protected. He looks for the correct fastener to hold something and he ensures that the engine compartment and the chassis work is tidy and clean and free from rubbing. He explained to me that when he fixes something he wants it to stay fixed. He doesn’t want to see it come back. He takes the extra time to ensure quality work.
I don’t hesitate to recommend Steve for maintaining or fixing your vehicle. I’ve worked with a lot of mechanics and Steve is definitely top notch. He’s a great engineer/​problem solver and does high quality work with extraordinary attention to detail. When he fixes something it stays fixed.

When I moved to the Bay Area 5 years ago, I knew who I wanted maintaining my vehicle — Steve Smith, a personal friend for 2 decades! Steve is caring, timely, professional, a straight shooter with on target prices! He has always returned my calls even during off hours when I’ve had an emergency or question! Luckily for me, I’m in Scotts Valley once a week so Steve can still be my go to guy!

We’ve been bringing our cars to Steve for over 10 years, and always the best care. Takes time to talk to you about what needs fixing right away and what can wait for a while. Now that he’s moved to Scotts Valley, we’ll follow him over the hill!
I recently had the rear brakes replaced on my 2011 Audi A3, and I’ll be back when the front ones wear out too.

I drive 30k hard miles per year for work and I’m always confident that the repair or maintenance that Steve has preformed will keep me safely on the road. Because he’s so thorough I also trust him with my family’s personal vehicles as well. If your looking for an automotive professional with fair pricing who gets it done right the first time, go to Bovarian Motors in Scotts Valley.