In the event of late-night munchie attacks or zombie outbreaks, your car proves a much better transportation option than a coal-burning go-kart or ill-tempered camel. Maintain your mighty mobile with today’s side deal. For $45, you get one hour of electrical and drivability diagnostics on your vehicle ($98 value) at Clintonville Automotive Repair Service, which has two Columbus area locations.

Owner Ron Stein’s business has been trucking along for 48 years now, and his gear-centric crew of ASE-certified mechanics regularly tackle any automotive problem you can shake a shifter at. C.A.R.S. can also handle all makes and models, so don’t be shy about bringing in your puttering 1959 El Camino. During your diagnostics, Ron and Co. will check your engine lights and test for any driving or electrical problems. Once your vehicle is thoroughly diagnosed, the car-care gurus will concisely explain its condition while remaining honest, professional, and avoiding confusing terms such as “16-cylinder dual overhead patty pudding charger.” Any repairs you have done at C.A.R.S. will come with a minimum 12-month or 12,000-mile nationwide warranty.

A reliable car—like a good dog—eventually becomes a de facto member of the family. While that doesn’t make it normal to call your car “Daddy,” it is a good reason to take your car to a family-owned establishment where the employees treat you like one of their own. Ron and Co. will help make sure that your ride runs smoothly throughout an entire year of hectic commutes, family vacations, and "gah-zoline" raids from marauding gangs of mutant Australians.

Reviews

Along with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, two Judy's Book reviewers give Clintonville Auto Repair four stars, while five Insider Pagers give it a solid three:

• The people are very friendly and even call you to be sure the work was done ok. – chip s., Insider Pages
• I didn't feel like they tried to rip me off by selling some of the "extras" along with their service. I also took my car in before purchasing it to have it looked over, and they gave me an honest evaluation of any problems it had, and how much they would cost to repair. – David A., Insider Pages
• They are hardworking, honest people who don't overcharge, and always make sure you understand what needed reapirs [sic] are necessary. – Meghan A., Judy's Book