The Best Subaru Repair in Great Lakes, IL

Compare the highest-rated subaru repair mechanics in Great Lakes, Illinois. All shops are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.

#1

Six Star Service Inc.

4.8
(280 reviews)
Verified

Widely regarded as the premier Subaru-only specialist in the Chicagoland area. Six Star was founded by former Subaru master technicians with a singular focus on the brand. They are the go-to for complex repairs, performance upgrades, and factory-level diagnostics, offering a dealer-level of expertise without the dealership price.

1275 Rand Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60016

Specialties & Features

Boxer engine rebuilds
STI/WRX performance tuning
Head gasket replacement

Business Information

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

GRD Performance (Gorilla Race Development)

4.7
(150 reviews)
Verified

While known for building championship-winning race cars, GRD has a full-service shop dedicated to both high-performance and daily-driven Subarus. Their technicians have an intimate, engineering-level understanding of the Boxer engine, AWD systems, and turbocharging, making them ideal for enthusiasts and complex mechanical issues.

1910 S. Wolf Rd, Wheeling, IL 60090

Specialties & Features

Turbo system service
AWD diagnostics
Performance maintenance

Business Information

Years in Business:18 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#3

SGS Automotive

4.6
(90 reviews)
Verified

A highly trusted independent shop with a strong reputation for honest service and expertise in Japanese imports, particularly Subaru. SGS is an excellent choice for routine maintenance, CVT services, and common repairs like head gaskets. They are known for their personalized service and building long-term relationships with clients.

208 S. Vermont St, Palatine, IL 60067

Specialties & Features

CVT maintenance
Head gasket replacement
EyeSight calibration

Business Information

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

Why These Are the Top Subaru Repair Auto Repair Shops in Great Lakes

** The Subaru repair market in the Greater Great Lakes/North Chicagoland area is robust and competitive, characterized by a clear distinction between dealerships and independent specialists. The average quality of general repair shops is moderate; while many can handle basic maintenance, the unique engineering of Subaru's Boxer engine, AWD system, and advanced electronics like EyeSight necessitates specialized training and tools. **Competition Level:** High. Customers have the choice of dealerships (convenient but costly) and a saturated market of independent mechanics. However, true *specialists* with proven expertise in all the requested areas are rare and command a premium. The top shops distinguish themselves through certifications (ASE Master Tech, Subaru-specific training), investment in proprietary scan tools, and a focus on the brand. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is generally 20-40% lower than dealership rates for labor. However, for specialized services like EyeSight calibration, which requires specific targets and alignment racks, pricing is standardized and competitive among specialists. A complex job like a head gasket replacement on a non-turbo engine typically ranges from $2,800 - $3,800 at a specialist, compared to $3,500 - $4,800+ at a dealership. The presence of high-caliber shops like Six Star and GRD creates a "center of gravity" for Subaru owners, ensuring that the market standard for quality remains high.

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 Great Lakes regulations and climate