Can We Wait for It? Can We Work in Your Lobby?
One of the most common questions we hear at Glenn’s Auto Service is simple: “Can we wait for it? Can we work in your lobby?” The short answer is yes, and you also have options. We’ve built our customer experience around real life in Downey because some people want to stay, work, and be close to their vehicle, while others need to get home, back to the office, or take care of family. That’s why we’re happy to shuttle you home within our local area, and if needed, we can help arrange a Lyft for you. For larger jobs that take more than a day, we also have two loaner cars available with some limitations. Our goal is to make your visit as easy and stress-free as possible, whether you’re here for routine auto repair, diagnostics, or a bigger job that keeps your vehicle with us a little longer.
Waiting at the Shop: Yes, You Can Work in Our Lobby
If your service will be relatively short, you’re absolutely welcome to wait in our lobby and get work done.
Here’s what you can expect when you stay on-site at Glenn’s Auto Service:
Comfortable seating – A clean, welcoming waiting area where you can relax or focus.
Free Wi-Fi – So you can answer emails, jump on a call, or work remotely while your vehicle is being serviced.
Coffee and water – Complimentary refreshments while you wait.
Honest timelines – We’ll give you a realistic estimate of how long your service should take, so you know if waiting makes sense.
If you’re a remote worker, student, or just need a quiet place to sit for a bit, our lobby is set up to make that time as productive and comfortable as possible.
When Waiting Isn’t the Best Option
Some repairs need more in-depth attention, extended diagnostics, parts ordering, or multi-step work. In those cases, we’ll talk honestly with you about timing.
If it looks like the job will take most of the day (or multiple days), waiting in the lobby probably isn’t ideal. Instead, we offer options so you can get on with your day in Downey:
Free local shuttle service – We’ll drive you home or to a nearby location so you don’t have to sit and wait.
Help hiring a Lyft – If shuttle timing doesn’t work or you need extra flexibility, we’ll help coordinate a ride.
Two loaner cars available – For larger jobs that require your vehicle to stay with us, we have limited loaner cars so you can still get around while our technicians complete your auto repair.
We’ll always walk you through these choices so you can pick what works best for your schedule.
How We Decide: Wait, Shuttle, Lyft, or Loaner?
Every visit is a little different, but here’s how we typically guide the conversation:
Quick Service (Like Some Maintenance)
If it’s a relatively short appointment and the schedule is running on time, you’re welcome to wait in the lobby and work while we service your vehicle.
Medium-Length Service
For jobs that may take a few hours, we’ll explain the expected timing upfront. Some people still choose to wait; others prefer the shuttle or Lyft option so they can be more comfortable at home or get other things done.
All-Day or Multi-Day Repair
For big repairs or when we’re waiting on parts, we’ll talk about loaner car availability, our shuttle, or a Lyft. The goal is to keep your life moving, even when your car can’t.
Whatever we recommend, you’ll always be part of the decision. No surprises.
What It’s Like to Drop Off Your Car with Us
When you arrive for your appointment, we’ll check you in and take the time to listen first. You’ll tell us what you’re experiencing, whether it’s noises, warning lights, leaks, or general concerns, and we’ll ask a few questions to understand what’s been happening and when. Then we’ll talk through timing and options, give you our best estimate for how long the inspection or repair should take, and help you decide what works best for your day, whether that’s waiting and working in the lobby, heading home or somewhere nearby, or exploring loaner car options if the job will take longer. As we inspect your vehicle, we’ll keep you updated along the way by calling or texting with our findings, estimates, and next steps so you’re never left guessing, and you’ll approve everything before we move forward. What It’s Like to Drop Off Your Car with Us
No work is done without your approval. We’ll explain what’s urgent, what can wait, and what’s best for long-term reliability.
If you’d like to see the kinds of services we offer before you visit, you can explore our main Services page on Glenn’s Auto Service to get a feel for what we do.
FAQs: Convenience, Comfort & Car Care
Can I really work from your lobby while my car is being serviced?
Yes. Our waiting area has free Wi-Fi, seating, and refreshments, making it a comfortable place to answer emails, attend virtual meetings, or get some work done while your vehicle is in the shop.
What if my repair takes longer than expected?
If it looks like your service will take longer than originally planned, we’ll talk with you right away. We can shuttle you home, help arrange a Lyft, or, if it’s a larger job that requires multiple days, check availability for one of our loaner cars.
Do I have to decide before I arrive if I want to wait or take a shuttle?
Not necessarily. When you arrive, we’ll review the work being done and give you an idea of the timing. Together, we’ll decide if waiting in the lobby, taking a shuttle, using a Lyft, or requesting a loaner is the best fit for your day.
Is this just for big repairs, or also for basic services?
We offer these options whether you’re coming in for diagnostics, regular maintenance, or more involved auto repair work. Our goal is to make the entire experience easier, no matter why you’re visiting.
Ready to Plan Your Visit?
If you’re scheduling an appointment and wondering whether you should wait, work from the lobby, or head back home, just let us know your preferences when you book. We’ll help you plan the visit around your schedule and the type of service your vehicle needs.
You can easilybook online through our Appointments pageon Glenn’s Auto Service, or give us a call and we’ll talk it through with you.