The Best Kia Repair in Chesterton, IN

Compare the highest-rated kia repair mechanics in Chesterton, Indiana. All shops are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.

#1

St. John Auto Service

4.8
(240 reviews)
Verified

A highly reputable, family-owned auto repair shop known for its technical expertise with modern engines and transmissions. They are not a Kia dealership but have invested significantly in training and equipment to handle complex Kia systems, particularly GDI/turbo engines and DCT diagnostics. They are a top choice for customers seeking an alternative to the dealership without sacrificing expertise.

8075 W 93rd Ave, St. John, IN 46373

Specialties & Features

GDI and turbo engine service
DCT transmission diagnostics
Engine carbon cleaning

Business Information

Years in Business:15 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#2

Kia of Merrillville

4.3
(180 reviews)
Verified

As the authorized Kia dealership for the region, this is the definitive source for all warranty-compliant repairs, recalls, and factory-specified maintenance. Their technicians are directly certified by Kia and have exclusive access to Kia technical service bulletins, software, and original parts. This is the only provider that can officially handle Theta engine warranty claims and has specific training for Kia EVs and the Drive Wise system.

7777 Broadway, Merrillville, IN 46410

Specialties & Features

Theta engine warranty and maintenance
EV service (EV6
Niro EV)
Advanced safety features (Drive Wise)

Business Information

Years in Business:20 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#3

Pete's Auto Repair & Service Center

4.6
(90 reviews)
Verified

A well-established local shop in nearby Valparaiso with a strong reputation for honest diagnostics and quality workmanship. While they are a general repair shop, they have developed a significant niche in servicing Korean brands, including Kia. Customer reviews frequently highlight their successful repairs on problematic Kia engines and transmissions, making them a trusted independent option.

205 W Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN 46383

Specialties & Features

GDI engine service
Engine carbon cleaning
General Kia maintenance and repair

Business Information

Years in Business:12 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes

Why These Are the Top Kia Repair Auto Repair Shops in Chesterton

** The Kia repair market in the Chesterton area is characterized by a clear bifurcation. For warranty work, software updates, and highly specialized EV/ADAS services, residents are typically directed to the **Kia of Merrillville** dealership, which holds a monopoly on factory-authorized procedures. For out-of-warranty repairs, performance modifications, or routine maintenance, a competitive landscape of independent shops exists. The quality of these independents is generally high, with several shops, like St. John Auto Service, positioning themselves as European and Asian import specialists to differentiate from general mechanics. Pricing is tiered: dealership labor rates are the highest, followed by the specialized independents, with general repair shops being the most cost-effective for basic services. There is a noted demand for expertise in Kia's specific problem areas (Theta engines, DCT reliability), and the shops that have proactively trained in these areas have built strong, loyal customer bases. Consumers in this market are well-informed and often choose between the convenience and warranty security of the dealership and the personalized service and often lower costs of a reputable independent.

High Ratings

4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews

Fully Licensed

All shops are properly licensed and insured

Proven Experience

10+ years average experience in the industry

Local Experts

Familiar with Chesterton regulations and climate