Where to find auto repair on Sunday
Most independent repair shops close on Sunday, but several types of businesses stay open: chain repair centers (Firestone, Midas, Pep Boys), dealerships, and some independent shops in urban areas. Your best options depend on what you need fixed and how urgently. A transmission rebuild will not happen Sunday; an oil change or tire repair often will.
The fastest way to find what is open near you is to search "auto repair open Sunday" plus your city name in Google Maps. The results show hours, phone numbers, and customer reviews. Call ahead before driving over — Sunday staffing is often lighter, and some locations close early or handle walk-ins only.
If nothing nearby is open, roadside information programs (AAA, your insurance company, or your car manufacturer's roadside service) can tow you to a shop that is open or help you reach a Monday appointment. Some dealerships offer Sunday hours in major metropolitan areas, though their rates are typically higher than independent shops.
Key Takeaways
- Chain repair centers like Firestone, Midas, and Pep Boys operate on Sunday in most locations, though hours vary by store.
- Dealerships sometimes open on Sunday but charge more than independent shops for the same work.
- Google Maps search with your location shows real-time hours and lets you call ahead to confirm availability.
- Many Sunday repair shops handle routine work (oil changes, tire service, batteries) but not major repairs that require multiple days.
- If your car breaks down on Sunday and nothing is open, roadside information can tow you to a Monday appointment or an open facility.
Chain repair centers and their Sunday hours
Firestone, Midas, Pep Boys, and Goodyear shops operate on Sunday at most locations, though hours are usually shorter than weekday hours. Firestone locations typically open at 8 a.m. or 9 a.m. and close between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Sunday. Midas and Pep Boys follow similar patterns, but individual stores vary. Check the specific location's hours before you go.
These chains handle tire service, oil changes, batteries, brakes, and basic suspension work. They do not typically do engine rebuilds, transmission work, or major body repairs on Sunday. Wait times can be longer on Sunday because staffing is reduced, so call ahead and ask how long the wait is. Some locations take walk-ins only; others let you schedule online or by phone.
Pricing at chains is usually mid-range — more than a local independent shop but less than a dealership. If you are a member of AAA or have a manufacturer loyalty program, ask whether discounts explore on Sunday.
Dealership service departments on Sunday
Some dealerships open their service departments on Sunday, especially in larger cities and suburbs. Dealership hours vary widely by brand and location. Lexus, BMW, and luxury brands are more likely to offer Sunday service than mainstream brands. Call your dealership's service line to ask whether they are open and whether you can schedule a Sunday appointment.
Dealership service is more expensive than independent shops or chains for the same work. You pay for the brand name, the warranty coverage on parts, and the fact that technicians are factory-trained on your specific vehicle. If your car is still under warranty, dealership service may be required to keep the warranty valid — check your owner's manual or warranty documents.
Dealerships usually handle complex diagnostics and repairs that independent shops cannot. If you need work done that only the dealership can do and you cannot wait until Monday, Sunday service is worth the higher cost.
Independent repair shops with Sunday hours
Some independent mechanics and small repair shops stay open on Sunday, particularly in dense urban areas where demand is high. These shops are harder to find because they do not have the brand recognition of chains. Search Google Maps for "auto repair open Sunday" in your area, or ask friends and family for recommendations.
Independent shops usually charge less than chains or dealerships for the same work. The quality varies widely depending on the shop's reputation and the individual mechanic's skill. Read online reviews carefully — look for comments about honesty, timeliness, and whether the shop stands behind its work.
Call before you go. Many independent shops that are technically open on Sunday have limited staff and may not be able to take your car same-day. Some operate by appointment only, even on weekends.
What repairs you can actually get done on Sunday
Sunday repair availability depends on the type of work. Routine maintenance and emergency fixes are possible; major work is not. Oil changes, tire rotations, tire repairs, battery replacement, and brake pad replacement happen on Sunday at most open shops. Windshield wipers, air filters, and fluid top-offs take 30 minutes or less.
Brake service, suspension work, and electrical diagnostics can happen on Sunday at well-equipped shops, though they may take longer because of reduced staffing. Engine diagnostics — reading your check engine light — is usually possible if the shop has a diagnostic computer.
Transmission rebuilds, engine rebuilds, major body work, and anything requiring parts to be ordered will not happen on Sunday. If your car needs work that takes multiple days, you will wait until Monday or later in the week. If you are stranded and need a temporary fix to get home, Sunday shops can often help with that.
Using roadside information if nothing is open
If your car breaks down on Sunday and you cannot find an open shop, roadside information can tow you to a facility that is open or to a Monday appointment. AAA membership includes towing (distance varies by membership level). Your auto insurance policy may include roadside information — check your policy documents or call your insurer to confirm.
Many car manufacturers include roadside information in the warranty or as a complimentary service for the first few years of ownership. Check your owner's manual or call the manufacturer's customer service line. Some credit cards offer roadside information as a cardholder benefit.
When you call for a tow, tell the dispatcher where you want to go — an open shop, a dealership, or a specific repair facility. The tow truck will take you there. If you do not have a destination in mind, the dispatcher can suggest nearby shops or facilities.
Planning ahead to avoid Sunday emergencies
The best way to handle Sunday car trouble is to prevent it. Schedule maintenance during the week when all shops are open and you have more options. If your check engine light comes on, get it diagnosed on a weekday rather than waiting until the weekend.
Keep your car's maintenance schedule current. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections catch problems before they become emergencies. If you know you need work done, schedule it for a weekday when you have more choices and shorter wait times.
If you drive frequently on weekends or travel long distances, consider joining AAA or confirming that your insurance includes roadside information. Knowing you have a backup plan reduces stress if something goes wrong on Sunday.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all Firestone and Midas locations open on Sunday?
No. Hours vary by location. Some Firestone and Midas shops are closed on Sunday, while others open at 8 a.m. or 9 a.m. and close in the afternoon. Search the specific location on Google Maps or call the shop directly to confirm hours before you drive there.
Can I get my car fixed on Sunday if it is still under warranty?
It depends on your warranty terms. Some warranties require service at a dealership to remain valid. Check your owner's manual or warranty documents. If you are unsure, call the dealership's service department and ask whether a non-dealership repair on Sunday will void your coverage.
How much longer will a repair take on Sunday?
Sunday shops typically have fewer technicians, so wait times are longer. A 30-minute oil change might take an hour. Call ahead and ask the shop how long the wait is and whether they can fit you in. Some shops take appointments on Sunday; others handle walk-ins only.
What should I do if my car breaks down on Sunday and nothing is open?
Call roadside information (AAA, your insurance company, or your car manufacturer). They will tow you to an open facility or to a repair shop for a Monday appointment. If you do not have roadside information, call a local towing company and ask them to take you to the nearest open shop or to a safe location.
Do dealerships charge more for Sunday service?
Dealerships typically charge more than independent shops for the same work, whether it is Sunday or a weekday. The higher cost reflects factory training, brand-name parts, and warranty coverage. If you need work that only a dealership can do, the extra cost may be worth it.