I brought my car in for what I thought was electrical repair only to find out that it wasn't as bad as I had thought. Great job!
WL
William Leonard
Aug 26, 2025
5.0
I love may older vehicle but things do go wrong. Had apoorly running motor and my mileage per gallon had gone up as well as a rough ideal. Took it to Tripp at Tidewater Automotive Electrical of Chesapeake. I really don't want a new car payment! I did call and schedule a appointment and they were all welcoming and first class people. Left my car and they diagnosed to see what was going on. They called me and said I had a bad O2 sensor and a bad sensor that helped control idle. Also found 2 bad and leaking fuel injectors. They explained in layman's terms that between these three parts that was the cause of my problem. Went over repair cost and I agreed they should fix them. They told me how they guarantee their work. I picked car up next day and I have to say it runs as if it were new. I'm so pleased since another repair shop wanted to rebuild the engine. Thank you all at Tidewater Automotive Electric of Chesapeake. Now I have my happy face back and loving my car.ir
EV
Elite Laundry VA
Aug 18, 2025
5.0
Tidewater Auto Electric was fantastic from start to finish. They worked with us to get our only work van in and John was absolutely incredible! Super communicative, kind, and professional every step of the way.
Once the van came in on Wednesday, the team quickly diagnosed the issue, got it fixed, then ran another diagnostic to make sure everything was right. When a new problem showed up, they went above and beyond to source a part from Chevy the same day and got us back on the road.
We felt completely taken care of and in great hands the entire time. Their professionalism, honesty, and dedication truly set them apart. We are so grateful for Tidewater Auto Electric and highly recommend them!
MH
Mark Hammond
Jul 20, 2025
4.0
Propt and efficient, got the the job done quickly
DD
D
Jul 5, 2025
1.0
I strongly urge that everyone avoid this shop whatever it takes. They call themselves an 'Auto Repair/Auto Electric Shop' but the reality is they don't know what they are doing and just want to charge people so they can experiment.
I have been having some problems with the air conditioning system and the turn signals in my car and a few people had suggested them so I took a chance and have done nothing but regret it. I dropped my car off in the morning and talked with their service writer Chris Oswald. I told him what was going on and he said they will take a look and let me know. A few hours later he called me with a $1,500 list of repairs that he wanted to 'try and see if that fixes your problem'. He also commented: 'We don't know if it will fix it but it's a start'. That to me was a very bad sign and I kept thinking 'A start to what, you draining my bank account and filling yours??' It turned out that his suggested 'repairs' didn't fix the problem and only made the financial jam I was in even worse and I told Chris this. In fact I told him I had very limited funds several times in our conversations and he didn't seem to care. After all that and the problems not being fixed I told Chris that I was done. I couldn't continue to dump money into the car if they couldn't find and fix the problem and I just wanted for us to walk away and he said 'OK'. I also told him that since he clearly didn't know what he was doing and couldn't fix my car I wanted the $125 'diagnostic' fee refunded to my credit card and he said he would see to it.
A month later and I still don't have my money back and every time I call Chris he has yet another excuse or another runaround. I even offered to go out to the shop and pick up cash or a check and he told me 'Oh you don't need to do that, I'll take care of it' and he just doesn't. I told Chris that I was tired of his lying to me and playing games and it had to stop. I am now at the point where I am going to be taking Chris and Tidewater Auto Electric to court and I will not just be asking for the $125, I'll be asking for all of the money I spent on the problems that did absolutely no good. I also found out that they use Napa parts and that is not a good thing at all. Napa parts are 3rd rate at best and they have the worst reputation in the industry. I will never knowingly put anything Napa into my car, ever. It's safe to say that I'm never going back to these people and I suggest that others avoid them as well. I wish it hadn't come to this but when someone makes a promise to me I expect them to keep it and Tidewater Auto Electric Chesapeake did not.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tidewater Auto Electric of Chesapeake
How long will the diagnostic service take?
The duration of our diagnostic service can vary, potentially taking up to 5 business days. This timeframe is largely dependent on the availability of necessary parts.
What hours do you operate?
Our services are provided by appointment only, and we don't offer weekend availability. However, we strive to be accommodating. If you have special circumstances, please don't hesitate to contact us to discuss potential arrangements.
How much are your diagnostic services?
Our diagnostic services begin at $209, while our draw test services start at $416. These prices represent our base rates for these services.
Do you work on European vehicles?
At present, we do not service European vehicles. Our expertise is focused on domestic and Asian brand automobiles, including both cars and trucks.
What types of vehicles does Tidewater Auto Electric of Chesapeake service?
We specialize in servicing domestic and Asian brand automobiles, including cars and trucks. Currently, we do not service European vehicles.
How long does the diagnostic service usually take?
Diagnostic services can take up to 5 business days, depending largely on part availability.
What are the operating hours of Tidewater Auto Electric of Chesapeake?
We operate Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM by appointment only and are closed on weekends.
Are pickup and delivery services available?
No, we do not offer pickup or delivery services.
What forms of payment are accepted?
We accept American Express, Android Pay, Apple Pay, cash, check, Discover, financing options, invoices, Mastercard, and Visa.
Do I need to make an appointment to get service?
Yes, all services are available by appointment only to better accommodate our customers.
Is Tidewater Auto Electric of Chesapeake wheelchair accessible?
Yes, our location includes wheelchair accessible entrances, parking, seating, and restrooms.
Can you tell me about nearby businesses I might visit around Chesapeake?
Nearby you can find Ballance L E Electrical Service for building supplies, and Region Rents and Region Rents Sales & Service for industrial equipment and rentals. These could be useful stops depending on your needs when visiting our area.
What automotive services are available nearby other than Tidewater Auto Electric?
Nearby automotive services include White's Automotive Repair, Alliance Material Handling for automotive repairs and dealer services, and JandL Oil Separator Co for automotive parts and accessories.
Are there recreational or fitness facilities near Tidewater Auto Electric of Chesapeake?
Yes, you can visit CrossFit Unrivaled, a local gym and sports venue, and the YMCA of South Hampton Roads for community services and fitness activities to enjoy before or after your appointment.