When Mike S. walked in to see us at Donovan’s Auto & Tire Center with concerns about his 2017 Mazda CX-5, he wasn’t looking for the cheapest option; he was looking for the truth.
A Return Customer Seeking Honest Help
Mike first discovered Donovan’s back in 2023 when he needed a quick flat tire repair in Cincinnati. We took care of him, but it was a quick and simple job. That positive experience stuck with him, but he’d been taking his Mazda to another auto repair shop for regular maintenance.
During a recent inspection at his usual shop, Mike was notified during an inspection that his vehicle needed an alignment, sway bar links, and new ball joints. The repair estimate was significant, and something didn’t sit right with him.
That’s when Mike remembered the “free second opinion” coupon he’d received from our Donovan’s Auto & Tire Center mailers.
What Our Cincinnati Mechanics Actually Found
When Mike brought his Mazda CX-5 to our Blue Ash location, our experienced technicians performed a comprehensive inspection. Here’s what we discovered:
What Actually Needed Repair:
- Front struts were blown and were producing noises – a legitimate safety concern
- Sway bar links required replacement – confirmed as necessary
- Lower ball joint boots were split – but critically, there was no play in the ball joints themselves yet
What Didn’t Need Immediate Attention:
- The ball joints, while needing monitoring, didn’t require immediate replacement
Transparency Through Technology
We didn’t just tell Mike what we found…we showed him. Using our digital inspection system, we provided detailed photos highlighting exactly what was wrong with his vehicle and why we recommended specific repairs.
This wasn’t about trying to upsell or undersell. This was about giving Mike the complete picture so he could make an informed decision about his car maintenance.
The Honest Choice for Auto Repair
Did we save Mike thousands of dollars? No, and we won’t claim we did. Mike’s safety was our first priority, and his Mazda genuinely needed repairs. The blown struts and worn sway bar links were real issues that affected his vehicle’s handling and safety.
But here’s what we did do: We gave Mike accurate information, showed him exactly what was happening with his vehicle, and helped him prioritize the repairs that truly mattered. No guesswork. No unnecessary work. Just honest, expert advice since our opening in 1958.
Why Second Opinions Matter
At Donovan’s Auto & Tire Center, we’ve been serving Cincinnati families since 1958 because we believe in one simple principle: you deserve to know the truth about your vehicle.
That’s why we offer free second opinions. Everyone deserves an honest assessment of their car’s health and needs. Whether you’re in Pleasant Ridge, Norwood, Blue Ash, or anywhere in the Cincinnati area, you shouldn’t have to guess at what work is truly necessary.
What Makes Our Approach Different
- Experienced Technicians with over 60 years of combined experience
- Two-Year, 24,000-Mile Warranty on every repair
- Digital Inspections with photos showing exactly what’s wrong
- Free Shuttles or Even Loaner Cars Available while your vehicle is being serviced
- Honest, Upfront Communication about your vehicle’s needs
Your Vehicle Deserves Honest Care
Mike chose our team at Donovan’s for his repairs because he felt confident he was doing the right thing. He knew exactly what was wrong, why it needed fixing, and what could wait. That’s the peace of mind that comes from working with a mechanic in Cincinnati who prioritizes integrity over profits.
Have concerns about a repair recommendation? Visit any of our 3 Donovan’s Auto & Tire Center locations for a free second opinion. Let our certified technicians give you the honest answers you deserve.
Ready for Honest Auto Repair in Cincinnati?
Visit us in Pleasant Ridge or Kenwood
Call today to schedule your free second opinion
Experience the difference that 60+ years of trusted service makes
Donovan’s Auto & Tire Center. The Honest Choice for Auto Repair since 1958.