our story

Since 2019, Mike and Jessica Morgan have proudly continued the legacy of Dave’s Auto Repair, a name that Sarasota drivers have trusted for over 40 years. Originally founded by Dave Liddle, the shop earned its reputation through decades of honest, high-quality repairs and a genuine commitment to customer care. When Mike and Jessica stepped into this legacy, they recognized that running Dave’s Auto Repair was more than managing a business; it was about upholding a tradition of excellence for the Sarasota community.

Dedicated and Trustworthy Auto Repair in Sarasota, FL

Jessica Morgan brings over 25 years of automotive service experience, having worked with high-end brands like Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz. Her extensive technical knowledge and attention to detail ensure that every vehicle is diagnosed and repaired with precision. Mike Morgan shares Jessica’s dedication to transparency and customer care, focusing on creating a shop environment built on trust and integrity. Together, they lead a team committed not just to fixing cars, but to building long-lasting relationships with every customer who walks through the door.

At Dave’s Auto Repair, our mission is simple: provide expert automotive repairs in Sarasota at fair, affordable prices. Mike and Jessica believe that quality vehicle maintenance shouldn’t break the bank. Our team provides clear, honest assessments, giving customers a complete understanding of their vehicle’s needs and empowering them to make informed decisions. Every repair follows the highest standards of workmanship, ensuring reliability, safety, and peace of mind.

Our technicians are highly skilled and work on all major domestic and foreign brands using advanced diagnostic tools and the latest repair techniques to fix the most challenging and current issues. Over the years, Dave’s Auto Repair has built a strong reputation among local repair shops as the go-to experts for difficult diagnostics. Many shops refer challenging cases to us because of our expertise. Every vehicle receives a comprehensive inspection of all major systems, accompanied by a detailed report, so customers know exactly what their car needs without feeling pressured.

Welcoming out Newest Technician: Steve Idle

Steve Idle is an ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician with more than three decades of hands-on automotive experience and an impressive 21 consecutive years of maintaining ASE Master Technician certification. A Sarasota native, Steve developed a passion for mechanics at an early age and has spent his life mastering the art of diagnosing, repairing, and building mechanical systems.

Already driven by an entrepreneurial spirit and a natural talent for working with engines, between the ages of 12 and 15, Steve bought secondhand motorcycles, repaired them himself, and sold them for profit — an early sign of the mechanical skill and work ethic that would later define his career.

His professional automotive career began in Sarasota in the late 1980s and includes experience with independent repair facilities as well as major dealerships including Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, and Nissan. Steve also served as Lead Technician at Sarasota’s Swift Auto Repair for 15 years before the business closed following the sale of the property.

In 2026, Steve joined the team at Dave’s Auto Repair, where he continues to provide expert diagnostics, repairs, and customer service while accepting new customers. Known for his exceptional technical ability, attention to detail, and honest approach, Steve has earned a reputation as one of the area’s most gifted and respected automotive technicians.

Outside the shop, Steve is also an accomplished musician and avid guitarist. Combining craftsmanship with creativity, he has personally built several acoustic guitars entirely from scratch — including every component — without using any pre-manufactured parts. Those handcrafted instruments are still played by Steve today and reflect the same precision, patience, and passion he brings to automotive repair every day.

Auto Repair Shop Near Me

Whether you’re a long-time customer or visiting us for the first time, you can trust Dave’s Auto Repair in Sarasota, FL, for honest service, expert repairs, and dependable care. From routine maintenance to complete engine diagnostics and replacements, we are committed to keeping your vehicle running safely and efficiently. 

Choose Dave’s Auto Repair

•  Uber Rides
•  Parts and Labor Warranty on All Qualified Services
•  Discounts for First Responders and Educators
•  Woman-Owned Business
•  Clean and Organized Shop at the Same Location Since 1978!

We welcome you to give us a call or conveniently request your appointment online today.