With integrity and your safety at the core of what we do, we are here to get you and your vehicle safely on the road. We offer general automotive services as well custom builds. From brake repairs to engine swaps along with performance upgrades using an in-ground chassis dyno and custom tuning solutions. Whether you need a simple repair or want a complete overhaul of your vehicle, we are your one stop shop in Sarasota.
On 7-31-25 I paid Skips Automotive to do a full diagnostic inspection on my new to me Dodge. At that time it had approx 11,500 miles driven.
This resulted in Rob Wong advising the car needs new front brake pads and rotors. I was charged a job deposit of $1220.00 for front brakes pads and rotors and waited to be told the parts were in.
I haven’t worked in the automotive industry so I view myself as a lay person. In my opinion, brakes are either good or not good.
A few days later I called Rob stating that there was no squeaking, pulling of the steering wheel or pulsing coming from the front and asked his opinion on whether it was safe to continue driving. He stated “it should be safe to drive.”
The next few days I went to 3 other service shops for brake inspection. Most folks wouldnt have the time, money or fortitude to do this.
At 11,544 miles Firestone found 6-7 mm left on the pads and rotors which were said to be 60% of life left.
At 11,624 Tires Plus inspected the brakes. Again 6mm of pad remaining. They determined that service wasnt needed.
The 3rd, Dodge of Sarasota, inspected the brakes at 12,721 and found 60% life left of both pads and rotors and stated “no brake work is needed.”
Needless to say my brakes arent an issue. 3 shops wanted my money but didn’t take it because there was no reason. I told Rob I wasnt doing a brake replacement.
Facts are I can wait another 11,000 miles at the rate of wear.
Rob Wong emailed Sept 31, 25, saying “I am going to charge you a restocking fee, and you will be responsible for return shipping on the cancellation. Return shipping was 141.41, my restocking fee is 10%(so $122), the manufacturer has a $120 restocking fee. So, the initial cost was $1220-122-120-141.41= $836.59 you will be receiving.”
I went to court today. The Wongs wrote a check for $1385. Why more than the $1220 deposit? Apparently they agreed that me having to file a claim and have summons served cost me money. They (Shaila not Rob) willingly paid half court costs, apologized and paid me in full $1220 plus $165. He ate the restock, return shipping etc to the tune of $261.41. And paid me $165 more than he took from me.
The lesson is this. I have a special car…...Dodge Hellcat Redeye. At first I considered myself fortunate to find Skips Automotive. To see an AES certified mechanic shop treat its customers this way burns me and is the reason for the review but has cost them more than this unfortunate review. Had Rob been upfront about the acutal condition of the brakes and not sold them as a performance upgrade thinking I was going to the track and actually had a discussion instead of choosing to do business this way Id have gone back again and again and again.
The other thing is when a shop cant pony up the minor $’s for parts and needs a deposit, RUN. Ask to see the pads/rotors. Educate yourself and have them SHOW you why the service is necessary.
I wonder what he would have done differently had he to do it again. He lost a total of $426.41, a morning away from work, PLUS me as a return customer. His wife graciously apologized for her husband who refused let his ego get out of the way of recognizing the proper way to treat a customer. Too late.
In regard to everything I was generous and more than fair. It cost me $237 not including gas, meter time, and angst more than they paid me back. Is the sting on Skips Automotive/Raw Racing going to last. Buyer beware!
Lastly, he hired an attorney to send a letter stating what Rob told me already. So youve got to know hes willing to do just about anything but go to court to resolve an issue, especially when hes wrong. He used intimidation tactics and then caved at the moment when he knew he was in the wrong. Id add photos and docs but my situation is quite different because the problem didnt relate to work he did for me.
H
,mitchell halperin
Dec 10, 2025
5.0
I had a great experience with Rob at Skips auto. I took my 1969 Corvette to diagnose a leaking carburetor. I left with a new sniper 2 fuel injection system and can't believe the power and response difference. This car is so much fun to drive.
Rob also found a suspension issue from another shop and corrected it.
Skips knowledge and attention to detail is outstanding.
LN
Linda Nicole
Nov 13, 2025
5.0
Efficient! Good peeps. Good Work !
PM
Prestige Marine
Nov 12, 2025
5.0
brought my rare, mint-condition Cadillac ATS-V ,from Miami to Skip’s Automotive for a full setup.. high-pressure fuel pump, auxiliary low-pressure pump, transmission fluid, rear diff, and oil change. These guys went above and beyond.
We had a little confusion with the auxiliary pump install info, but Skip and his team were awesome about it , professional, and even worked Saturday and Sunday to make sure everything was done right. That kind of dedication is hard to find. Huge shout out to Tony for his dedication , knowledge and time..
The car runs perfect now, and after the final tune we pulled around 650 horsepower to the wheels. Couldn’t be happier with the results. Honest, knowledgeable, and stand-up people..otally worth the drive from Miami. I’ll definitely be back.
RR
Ronald Rock
Oct 25, 2025
5.0
I've had trouble finding a good, honest and reliable shop to work on my 64 Ranchero. It has a 289 built up with, cam, 4 barrel, intake, headers, shift kit etc... I wanted the carburetor looked as the car had a hesitation and some spark knock. I talked to Rob and explained what was going on. He called the first day and let me know that there were some issues with the carburetor and explained them all to me along with other diagnosis for my issues. He said the carburetor was made for racing and we might have to change it to a more street friendly carb. He called the second day and told me they had dialed in the carburetor, and it was running great. He recommended a fuel pressure regulator for best results. I told him by all means order and install the regulator. While the car was there, I asked him to look at the suspension as it drove like a 65 Ranchero...lol. Rob called and found a few things while checking out the suspension and called with them. Possible leaking rack and pinion and rear brake cylinder leaking. They cleaned up the rack and pinion, no leak and I had him repair the brake cylinder. I picked the car up and it had great throttle response, best it's ever had. When getting home I noticed I lost AC in the car. I called Rob and he said bring it in tomorrow and we'll look at. It ended up having a split hose. Rob ordered a new one and I had the car back the following day. I love that I was called with updates daily by Rob and he took time to explain everything. I have finally found a shop that I can trust to work on my Ranchero and not have to worry about being cheated. Rob and his staff are very professional and honest. I would recommend them to anyone looking to work done on their vehicles. Oh I will be going back to Rob to have them install a complete coil over system on the Ranchero.
Frequently Asked Questions About Skip's Automotive
What types of automotive services does Skip's Automotive offer?
Skip's Automotive offers general automotive services including brake repairs, engine swaps, performance upgrades, custom builds, and vehicle tuning using an in-ground chassis dyno.
Where is Skip's Automotive located?
Skip's Automotive is located at 721 Apricot Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34237, USA.
What are the business hours for Skip's Automotive?
Skip's Automotive is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
Which payment methods are accepted at Skip's Automotive?
They accept American Express, Android Pay, Apple Pay, Cash, Check, Discover, Mastercard, Samsung Pay, and Visa.
How can I contact Skip's Automotive for more information or to schedule a service?
You can contact them by phone at +1 941-955-4306 or email at info@skipsautomotive.com.
Does Skip's Automotive offer any online resources or social media for customers?
Yes, they have a website at http://www.skipsautomotive.com, a Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/126283190759824, and an Instagram handle @skipsautomotivesrq.
Which areas does Skip's Automotive primarily serve?
Skip's Automotive serves customers in Sarasota, FL and Bradenton, FL areas.
What nearby automotive services can I find close to Skip's Automotive?
Nearby automotive service includes Raw Racing, another local automotive repair business close to Skip's Automotive.
Are there any art galleries near Skip's Automotive that I can visit?
Yes, Unique by Margit and The Makery SRQ are two nearby art galleries you can visit before or after your service appointment.
What dining options are available near Skip's Automotive?
Hamlet's Eatery, an American restaurant and food truck, is located nearby and is a good option for a meal when visiting the area.