Automotive Services Market Overview
The automotive service infrastructure in Montenegro is unevenly developed. The highest concentration of service centers and spare parts stores is observed in Podgorica and coastal cities (Budva, Bar, Tivat, Kotor). In inland areas (Nikšić, Berane), the selection is more modest, but basic repairs are available everywhere.
A key feature of the local market is the presence of numerous "garage" mechanics and services oriented toward expats. Thanks to the large Russian-speaking diaspora, finding a mechanic who speaks Russian is not difficult, especially in Bar and the Bay of Kotor.
Where to Buy Auto Parts
The spare parts market relies on imports. Parts are delivered from EU countries, Serbia, and Croatia. The waiting time for ordered items ranges from 1 to 7 days.
Large Chains and Stores
- Monte Parts: The largest chain in the country with branches in Podgorica, Budva, Bar, Nikšić, Berane, and other cities. They offer a wide range of oils, filters, and spare parts (both original and aftermarket).
- Trend Auto (Podgorica): Specializes in parts for all passenger car brands. Provides free delivery across the country. Working hours: 07:00–20:00 (Mon–Sat).
- Castellana: Another large chain specializing in tires, batteries, and car care products.
Russian-Speaking Auto Services
For tourists and expats who do not speak Serbian/Montenegrin, the following trusted services are recommended:
- Diesel Garage (Radanovići/Kotor): Staff speak Russian, Ukrainian, and English. Specialization: diesel and gasoline engines, auto electrics, diagnostics, spare parts search by VIN.
- MOST + AleksTeh (Bar): A popular service among Russian speakers in Bar. Provides diagnostics, tire service, and spare parts sales.
- Autodok.me: Focused on engine and gearbox repairs.
- Auto-club.me: Offers scheduled maintenance, painting, and body repairs.
Services by Region
The choice of workshop depends on your location and the type of breakdown. The capital offers more options, while on the coast minor issues are resolved faster.
Podgorica
As the administrative center, the city offers the most professional equipment.
- Auto Service Montenegro: A full range of services from computer diagnostics to air conditioning and electrical repairs. Open until 18:00 on weekdays.
- Vujacic Company: Leaders in suspension and tires.
Budva Riviera and Kotor
Services here are often overloaded during the season but operate efficiently.
- TT Auto Service: Serves Budva, Tivat, and Kotor. Specialization: bodywork, painting, wrapping, mechanics.
- Lazi Auto Servis (Budva): Suspension, engine, and gearbox repairs, as well as washing and detailing.
- Titan Tim Car (Kotor): General maintenance.
Bar and Ulcinj
- Auto Centar KRALJ (Bar): Technical maintenance, automatic transmission, engine, and suspension repairs.
- Carservice (Bar): "Store + service" format, convenient for quick replacement of consumables.
- VN Motors (Bar): Preventive maintenance and repairs.
Prices and Seasonality
The hourly labor rate in Montenegro is lower than in Western Europe but may vary.
- Computer diagnostics: €20–50.
- Oil and filter change (labor): €10–20.
- Spare parts: Prices are comparable to European ones; delivery of used parts is possible but takes time.
Operating Tips
- If you have a rare car model (American or Japanese assembly), order consumables in advance. Stock usually includes parts only for popular European brands (VW, Audi, BMW, Renault).
- For diesel fuel system repairs, choose specialized services (e.g., Diesel Garage), as fuel quality at gas stations can sometimes lead to clogged injectors.
- Beware of counterfeit oils in small shops. Purchase technical fluids from large chains (Monte Parts, Castellana).