Finding a mechanic you actually trust is kinda like finding a needle in a haystack, except the haystack is on fire and the needle is potentially going to charge you five hundred bucks for an "air filter diagnostic." If you live in the Waukegan area, or if you've been searching for a shop that doesn't treat you like a walking wallet, you’ve probably heard the name Roberto's Auto Service Inc thrown around in local circles.
But here’s the thing. There are a dozen shops with similar names across the country—from San Diego to North Hollywood—and people constantly mix them up.
Honestly, the "real" Roberto's Auto Service Inc located on Washington Street in Waukegan, Illinois, has been a neighborhood fixture for over 45 years. That’s not a typo. They’ve been under the same corporate umbrella since the late 70s, which is basically an eternity in the automotive world. While other shops pop up and disappear within a few years, this place has become a pillar of reliability.
The Mystery of the Two Robertos (And Why it Matters)
Let’s clear something up right now because it confuses everyone. If you search for this business, you’ll likely see a massive service center in San Diego called Robert’s Auto Service. They are great, but they aren't the same.
Roberto's Auto Service Inc (the one with the "o" at the end of Roberto and the "Inc" at the end of the name) is the Illinois powerhouse.
Why does this matter? Because the Waukegan shop operates differently. It’s a combined force of auto repair, towing services, and bodywork. Most shops specialize in one thing. You’re either a "grease monkey" mechanic or a "paint and frame" body shop guy. Roberto's basically says, "Why not both?"
They handle:
- Major Engine Diagnostics: The scary stuff where your dashboard looks like a Christmas tree.
- Transmission Maintenance: Because nobody wants to buy a new car in this economy.
- Full Body and Frame Repair: This is rare. Most mechanical shops won't touch a dented fender.
- Towing and Roadside: They are one of the few places that will actually come get you when your car dies on the side of the road at 6:00 PM on a Tuesday.
What the 45-Year Legacy Actually Means for Your Car
When a business has been around since 1981 (and started even earlier in 1976), they aren't guessing. They’ve seen the evolution from carburetors to complex EV sensors.
According to BBB filings, Roberto's Auto Service Inc has maintained an active presence in Lake County for decades. This longevity breeds a specific type of expertise. They aren't just reading codes off a scanner; they understand the mechanical "why" behind the failure.
It’s about the parts, too. One of the biggest complaints in the industry right now is the use of "white-label" or generic parts that fail six months later. Real talk: Roberto's has a reputation for using recognized market parts. They know that if they put a junk alternator in your truck, you’re just going to be back in a week, and they’d rather spend that time fixing a new problem than redo-ing old work.
The "Hidden" Costs of Cheap Repairs
We’ve all been there. You get a quote for $1,200 and think, "I can find a guy on Craigslist who will do it for $400."
Don't do it.
The value in a place like Roberto's Auto Service Inc isn't just the wrench-turning. It's the transparency. One thing that stands out in customer experiences is the upfront explanation. They’ll tell you, "Look, your brake pads are at 4mm. You don't need them today, but you will in three months." That kind of honesty is what keeps a business open for 40+ years.
They also handle fleet services. When local businesses trust a shop with their delivery vans, you know the turnaround time is legit. If a van isn't on the road, that business is losing money. Roberto's applies that same "get it done" urgency to your personal sedan.
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The Nitty-Gritty: Hours and Accessibility
If you're planning a visit, don't just show up on a Sunday. They are old-school.
- Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM to 7:30 PM (Great for drop-offs after work).
- Saturday: 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM.
- Sunday: Closed.
They are located at 1608 Washington St, Waukegan, IL. It’s a busy stretch, and the shop is usually hopping. If you’re coming in for something like an oil change or a tire rotation, you’re usually in and out fast. But for those "my engine is making a sound like a blender full of marbles" issues, you'll want to call ahead.
Why This Shop Still Matters in 2026
In a world of corporate chains where the mechanic is just a kid following a computer prompt, Roberto's feels human. It’s a family-run vibe with corporate-level equipment.
They’ve adapted. They handle diesel repair. They handle foreign imports. They even do auto wrecking and used parts, which is a lifesaver if you're trying to keep an older car running on a budget.
Actionable Next Steps for Your Car:
- Check your fluids first: Before you assume your transmission is shot, check the levels. Roberto's often finds that "major" problems are just low fluid issues.
- Get a Second Quote: If a dealership told you that you need $3,000 in work, take that itemized list to Roberto's. There’s a high chance the "urgent" items aren't actually urgent.
- Call (847) 623-0808: If you’re in Lake County and stranded, keep their number in your phone. It beats waiting for a random tow truck that might take three hours to show up.
- Plan your maintenance: Don't wait for the breakdown. A simple $50-100 inspection at a high-rated shop like this can save you $2,000 in engine repairs down the line.
The reality is that Roberto's Auto Service Inc has survived every economic downturn since the 70s for a reason. They fix cars, they don't overcharge, and they actually show up when you call. In this industry, that's a winning trifecta.