Independent European & Import Specialist - Richmond, BC
The Right Diagnosis
for Your Vehicle.
For more than four decades, Ara has specialized in diagnosing, maintaining, and repairing European and premium import vehicles, including Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volkswagen, Acura, Infiniti, and Lexus.
The Best Options
for You.
Every recommendation begins with seeing your vehicle. Once Ara has assessed its condition, he'll explain what he found, discuss the available service and/or repair options, and recommend parts that provide the best balance of quality, reliability, and value—so you can choose what's right for your vehicle, your priorities, and your budget.
More About Ara
Ara began working in automotive repair at just 11 years old in his uncle's shop. He later joined Top Technique in Lebanon, where he serviced vehicles for government officials and other high-profile clients, before moving on to a BMW and Alfa Romeo dealership.After immigrating to Canada in 1991, Ara continued building his expertise with respected European automotive specialists in Vancouver. In 2013, he purchased the business that would become AVS Auto Repair Ltd., continuing its tradition of honest service, careful workmanship, and long-term customer relationships.When he's not working on customer vehicles, you'll often find him driving or maintaining one of his Porsche 944s — a reflection of a lifelong passion for the cars he services every day.
Independent European & Import Specialist - Richmond, BC
What We Do
AVS specializes in the diagnosis, maintenance, and repair of European and premium import vehicles, including Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volkswagen, Acura, Infiniti, and Lexus.Whether your vehicle needs scheduled maintenance, a specific repair, or help tracking down a difficult problem, Ara takes the time to identify the root cause before recommending the appropriate repair.Services include:
Diagnostic testing and warning light troubleshooting
Scheduled maintenance and factory service
Engine performance and drivability concerns
Brake service and repair
Suspension and steering repair
Cooling system and overheating repairs
Pre-purchase inspections
Considering buying a used European or import vehicle?A pre-purchase inspection can help identify existing issues before you buy. With more than 44 years of experience working on European and import vehicles, Ara provides a thorough independent assessment to help you make an informed decision.➜ Learn more about our Pre-Purchase Inspection service
Independent European & Import Specialist - Richmond, BC
Shop Policies
At AVS Auto Repair, Ara focuses on accurate diagnosis, quality repairs, and clear communication. To provide the best service possible, there are a few things we do differently than some repair shops.Can you provide an estimate before I bring my vehicle in?Sometimes.For routine maintenance and manufacturer-recommended services, we can often provide an estimate based on the vehicle information and service requirements.For warning lights, drivability concerns, unusual noises, or unknown problems, Ara will typically need to inspect the vehicle before an accurate estimate can be provided. Proper diagnosis helps prevent unnecessary repairs and unexpected costs.Do you replace parts without diagnosing the problem first?No.Many vehicle symptoms can have multiple possible causes. Rather than guessing or replacing parts at random, Ara takes the time to diagnose the issue correctly before recommending repairs.Do you install customer-supplied parts?No.AVS supplies the parts used in repairs to help ensure proper fit, quality, reliability, and warranty coverage. This also allows Ara to stand behind the repairs performed.Do you offer loaner vehicles?No.As a small independent shop, AVS does not offer loaner vehicles. Repairs are scheduled and completed as efficiently as possible to minimize downtime.When is payment due?Payment is due when the vehicle is picked up.Have questions about a repair recommendation?Ara believes customers should understand what is being repaired and why. If you have questions about your vehicle, diagnosis, or recommended repairs, he will always take the time to explain the issue and discuss the best path forward.
Independent European & Import Specialist - Richmond, BC
Read What Our Clients Say About Us:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Afif Mirzad Jun. 2026
If you own a Euro car, save yourself the hassle and take it to Ara. I initially got an inflated quote from another mechanic, but Ara was a refreshing change. He quickly diagnosed the problem and explained everything clearly, without trying to upsell me on unnecessary services. It’s rare to find a mechanic who’s this honest, knowledgeable, and fair with pricing. I feel completely at ease leaving my car here. I won’t be going anywhere else!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Jonathan Shen Jun. 2026
Lisa at the front made everything so understandable for me. My experience was ten times better thanks to AVS Auro repair. Best shop in the lower mainland for your high end European car.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Alp Atilgan May 2026
Super honest and knowledgeable guy. Been taking my C350 and GLK Diesel here and he has replaced my ESL, resealed my timing covers and even washed the engine bay after. Superb quality of work. Recommended for anyone that loves their car.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Astro! Jan. 2026
11/10 service, brought my Audi in a while back after some friends recommended me, Ara took more care of my that any dealership. He diagnosed my car briefly at no charge and was able to give me recommendations on how I should be driving the vehicle till the problem was resolved. I ended up bringing it back when I was ready and the car hasn’t given me any trouble since. If your looking for experience and trustworthy help these are the guys!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amrit Dutta Sep. 2025
Just took my high end vehicle to AVS and it’s safe to say; if you have a new and expensive vehicle , AVS is the place to maintain and get it fixed. For those who care about their cars. You worry about what going to happen and how your car will be treated. I had a dashcam and a tracker on my vehicle when I dropped it off to AVS, worried it’ll be treated poorly like all the other car repair shops. AVS did the exact opposite, they only pulled the car in and out of the shop and went around the block for a test drive. Amazing experience at AVS, their treatment for customer cars is unmatched, not to mention their fair and reasonable price
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Action Z Jul. 2025
Been taking my cars to Ara for over 2 decades pre- Google review era. He is honest, extremely knowledgeable, and very reasonably priced. Aside from repairs and maintenance on my Mercedes and Lexus, he worked his magic and got my straight piped catless 1978 Datsun past aircare every year when aircare was still a thin. That in itself is a miracle. Highly recommended.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Hanhan Nguyen Feb. 2025
My Audi Q5 had a drive system malfunction which I had taken to the dealership for further inspection. They quoted me over $6k for a turbo replacement which I thought was strange as my car was under 5 years old. Thankfully, my cousin recommended Ara to me and he recommended an adjustment and seeing how things go from there. My car has been great ever since and I'm so happy with Ara’s assistance! I will definitely come back for any further issues. Thanks again Ara!!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Jun Kang February 2024
The technician was very knowledgeable in fixing engine issues that I couldn't fix at other garages. My car is a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 van vehicle. The repair price is reasonable and no arbitrary charges will be made
Independent European & Import Specialist - Richmond, BC
Common Questions
What is your warranty policy?AVS Auto Repair Ltd. provides a three-month warranty on labour and a twelve-month warranty on parts from the date of service, unless otherwise specified on the written estimate.Do you provide estimates over the phone?In many cases, yes.For routine maintenance and manufacturer-recommended services, we can often provide an estimate based on the vehicle information and service requirements. For diagnostic concerns, drivability issues, warning lights, or unknown problems, Ara will typically need to inspect the vehicle before an accurate estimate can be provided.Why should I choose AVS Auto Repair instead of a dealership?AVS Auto Repair offers dealership-level diagnostic and repair expertise without the overhead and complexity of a large dealership environment. Customers work directly with Ara, who has more than 44 years of experience specializing in European and import vehicles. Our focus is accurate diagnosis, honest recommendations, and repairing what the vehicle actually needs.Do you work on non-European vehicles?Yes. While AVS Auto Repair specializes in European vehicles, Ara also services many premium import vehicles including Acura, Infiniti, and Lexus, as well as select Japanese and Korean models.Do you perform pre-purchase inspections?Yes. AVS performs pre-purchase inspections for European and premium import vehicles. A professional inspection can help identify existing issues and provide peace of mind before purchasing a used vehicle.What forms of payment do you accept?We accept Visa, MasterCard, Interac Debit, Interac e-Transfer, and cash (Canadian currency).Can I wait while my car is serviced?Yes. Our waiting area is stocked with coffee and snacks, and homemade treats are often available. Complimentary Wi-Fi is also available.Are you approved with any third-party warranty programs?Yes. AVS Auto Repair Ltd. is approved to complete repairs under Global Warranty programs.Still have a question?Please give us a call, send an email, or reach out via WhatsApp using the links below.
Independent European & Import Specialist - Richmond, BC
Active In The Community
AVS Auto actively supports youth sport in Richmond.As former hockey parents, Ara and his wife Lisa have three boys who each played organized ice hockey and while the cost to play continues to go up, sponsoring teams is their way to give back for all that ice hockey did for their boys.Go Jets Go!
Independent European & Import Specialist - Richmond, BC
Buying a pre-owned European or premium import vehicle?
Get it checked before you commit.
Work directly with Ara — 44+ years of European & Import experience
Same-day or next-day inspections available
How It Works (Before You Buy):❶ Bring the car same day or next day❷ Ara inspects the car cold and warm, including a hoist inspection and computer scan & advanced diagnostics to uncover hidden issues, fault codes and data inconsistencies❸ You get a clear recommendation before you buy
What Does It Cost?
$259 + tax Pre-Purchase Inspection
Per vehicleHow Do I Pay?
Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Interac Debit, e-Transfer, or Cash (CAD)
Why Trust Ara?✅ Former Dealer Technician✅ 44+ Years Experience with Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz✅ Celebrating his 14th Year serving the Vancouver area✅ 80+ client reviews with a 4.9 Star Rating across Google, Facebook & YelpSome sellers clear codes or hide issues — Ara knows where to look.