Azmordean

Hey all --

My new C7 Z51 is arriving next week, and I'm starting to think about where to take it for maintenance. I know of Rich @ Abel's reputation, and fully intend to use them for any significant work.

That said, I can't see going that far for simple stuff like oil changes. I'd actually consider it if they were open Saturdays but since they are not, taking my car to them will throw a major wrench into my work schedule, so I'd prefer to save them for the significant stuff.

I've heard some horror stories on this forum about some dealers somehow messing up oil changes, particularly with the dry sump system, so I wanted to check with the sage folks here if there's one that's relatively competent? The closest options to me are Momentum, Boardwalk, Fremont, and Capitol. I'm also willing to consider a non-dealer service shop if that's truly preferable.

Boomer111

I too use Abel and most likely will when warranted, it is a 180 mile drive loop so the car would need to be fixed the same day.

I did use this shop, https://www.yelp.com/biz/valaya-racing-san-jose-3, for a brake fluid change after researching if it was needed. BTW Abel told be it wasn't needed. I later did the research.

I have heard good things from other Vette and Viper owners over the last 10 years. I meet a Santa Clara Corvette club member there as he was wearing his member shirt.

Ted has reasonable prices too.

383vett

A jack, 4 jackstands, a 15mm wrench and an oil pan. You'll know it's done right.

Keith Richards

^^^This, might be able to substitute low profile ramps for jack & stands.

BTW , I am so spoiled ......

Azmordean

Great option, but doesn't work when you live in a condo and automotive work is expressly prohibited .

wonka12_98

Yeah, I always laugh when people think that doing it yourself is the ONLY option. Many people can't change their own oil for various reasons! It's not practical for everyone and some of us aren't youngsters any more.

Kenny94945

There was/is an independent shop in Fremont that is known for tuning and a Calif smog cam.

Their business name escapes me (Rick?) yet he does/ did post in this locale forum.

In the past I had good experiences with him.

Others in your area may be able to offer experiences with the dealers you listed.

Good luck.

DAWS C5

I use North Star Automotive at Calderon and Villa in MV. Have done all my work on 3 corvettes since 2000. I would take my cars no where else! Corvette specialists. http://www.northstarauto.com/

Azmordean

This is very tempting, it is less than a mile from where I live! This may be my go-to for standard work not requiring a dealer (e.g. non-warranty stuff). Do you know if they use OEM parts?

Sunnyvale Dave

It is difficult to recommend a local dealership because they are inconsistent. I have taken my Corvette to Momentum and been completely satisfied with their work, but Momentum doesn't seem to be able to do things right consistently. On one of my last visits, I had to go to the general manager with my concerns.

I now go to Abel.

I believe Capitol Chevrolet recently went through a major shake up in the service department.

I may give Race Street Rally a try for my next oil change.

I like Rich and the people at Abel, but sometimes I don't feel like driving that far for a simple maintenance item.

The Admiralty

I've had my oil change done at Boardwalk, and they did a good job. The service manager allayed all my fears, had the right answers for all my questions. But then again, not surprising considering they're the highest volume Corvette dealer on the West Coast (or at least were, now that Tim Boone is gone haha).

EDIT: My experience is probably outdated at this point. Multiple sources say Boardwalk sucks now!

DAWS C5

Pretty sure the answer is yes to OEM. Further they can do warranty work. Give Dave Bonar the owner a call.

97C5driver

Boardwalk has terrible service, in every department. Nothing but morons.

Dublin or Fremont Chevy you run the risk of your car being stolen while its in for service.

Abel is the way to go. When you show up for service and see 70% of the vehicles in their shop are corvettes, you know you've come to the right place.

ptroxx

And you can always see some great street/race cars.

Place is always packed though so call ahead. Lol

LS WON

LS WON

The drive through the Delta is nice

the kid C6

It's not only Chevrolet, it's the industry. Dodge is inconsistent, too. Shake ups and employee turnover everywhere. Each time I went to Momentum, there were different service advisors.

It seems like the best technicians don't want to work for dealerships. I've met service techs who have worked for dealerships and swear up and down they'll never go back, that private shops are vastly better places to work.

I was almost relieved when my warranty expired.

LS WON

If you read Consumer Reports Dodge is the WORST same as Fiat, Chrysler. Used to be Consumers would dog the Corvette but nobody has scored worse than FCA / Dodge

LT4_CE

That's odd, because they didn't use Mobile 1 on my GS, and they wouldn't return my emails or calls about the matter. It might have something to do with the incredibly poor service I received from the sales department. Ultimately, I blame myself for assuming that as self-described Corvette experts, I would not have to hold their hand through a simple matter like an oil change.

So Tim is gone? What about Ali? I checked their web site just today, and I didn't see either of their names.

This is exactly my experience with Boardwalk! I wish it was convenient to go to Abel. I'm just so far away.

The Admiralty

Holy ****!!! They used Mobil 1 on my Z51 last fall, but then again, Tim was still there (if that had anything to do with it), and Mike (?) the service manager at the time was courteous, professional, and accessible.

Wow, I guess things have REALLY changed there in the past year. I guess I better rescind my recommendation as it's outdated now.

And I better make the drive to Abel for my next oil change!

P.S. Indeed, looks like Ali is gone too.