Lawler & Balthasar Auto Repair Company

I’ve used this shop for many years since they are near my work and so convenient. They adhere to the highest level of professionalism and are always careful to pinpoint the real problem in order to be sure they get to the root cause. A recent example was when the check engine light went on and the problem was the EGR valve. Rather than simply replace the valve, they found that the problem was due to a clogged hose instead. Total repair cost was much less. Had they just replaced the valve, I would have paid more and the problem would not have been fixed.

After reading previous reviews, I called in to see if it was a good time to take my car in the shop. On the phone I explained what was the problem. I knew it wasn’t a catastrophic issue with the engine, so I was cautioned in case he (like other auto repairs might do) tried to do more to up the cost. This was not the case, not even one bit! They were very cordial and helpful on the phone before I even planned on taking it in.
He was so helpful that he explained how to do it over the phone so I didn’t even have to take it in! It saved me a lot of headache and speaks of the honesty of the people working there. Next time I need any work done, I am coming here first so I can help them like they helped me!

This is the kind of long-​standing local business that deserves our support. In business since the 1920s, in current location since the 1940s. Most anything can be done here, and it is done professionally, quickly, and in a clean shop and waiting room. The extensive website allows you to schedule appointments, and they will drop you off within a 5-​mile radius, whcih takes in a wide swatch of St. Louis from their Midtown location. These folks are great!

Went here on a whim thanks to another Unilocal review, and LOVED the place. Everyone was super nice and helpful, great attitudes, and I got my car in right away for an inspection without even needing an appointment.
Another great thing was they fixed a burnt out tail light bulb for me & didn’t even charge me! It’s a small place, very cozy but I will definitely be coming back. Plus, as previous Unilocaler mention, they didn’t try to up sell me on a bunch of random things since I was a female & there by myself.
Great experience and I like to support small business when possible.
Side Note: They don’t make appointments… make sure you come in early in the day, or at a time they aren’t busy. Can be an awesome way to get in quick if you can go in at the right time instead of waiting a week like most places.

How has no one reviewed this place yet? If you want honest mechanics who work quickly and do a great job (for a decent price), go here.
I’ve been looking for a mechanic ever since Dutch retired from his little garage on Macklind in like 2003. Being a girl with a car can be… extremely difficult when it comes to auto repair services.
I think there is a secret «let’s try to rip women off» mechanic society. I’m not going to tell you how many 30 $ oil changes I’ve gotten… it’s really quite humiliating.
Anyway, I discovered these fine people on Locust when I got a new job in Midtown and my boss recommended them. They are great. I’ve had them do everything — oil changes, new tires, fix things I break, discover noises that have been plaguing me for years, fix said noises, etc etc. They are also very hassle free when it comes to safety/​emissions inspections. Every single time I’ve needed them, they’ve been there, and always taken care of everything within the same day. Every other mechanic I’ve used has tried to upsell me on something. Here, you need 8 new filters, etc etc. Not these guys.
I’ve sent some friends to Lawler and Balthasar, and they won’t use anyone else now.
If you are in need of some honest mechanics in the city, you should definitely consider going here. They have a super convenient location (close to downtown without having to get caught up in the traffic of downtown), are really nice, do great work, and will not try to take every penny you have. That’s a rarity.