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Auto repair shop - Oceanside Automotive - in Oceanside

47 reviews

Location: 499 College Blvd Ste B, Oceanside, CA 92057

Office phone

+1 (760) 414-9850

4.4

47 total

(5)

(0)

(1)

(5)

(35)

22/07/2016

Recently move to Oceanside and was fortunate enough to stumble across this place. Always honest, good advice and reasonably priced. My official go to mechanic!

Dalia U.

Source: YELP

09/09/2015

Very upset! My car started to make a weird noise when I started it. Two weeks later it stopped starting. I took it here and they said it was the started. Paid $600 to fix it. I get it back and two days later it stops starting again. I took it back they said they would keep working on it till they figured out the problem. Two days later they give me back my car and said they didn't find anything. It still wasn't starting, I take it to auto zone and found out it was the relay. An easy fix. Just bought a $35 relay and replaced it. But no I paid $600 for a starter I didn't need and they still never found out the problem. Did it myself

Veronica L.

Source: YELP

18/03/2016

I must say... A perfect experience! My truck is my lifeline and is used in the course of my business. What I thought was the water pump turned out to be something simple. Extremely honest business ethics. Highly recommended!

Brad H.

Source: YELP

06/08/2015

Dropped in to have my rotors and brakes looked at. These guys took great care of me. Needed new everything pretty much. It had been years since I'd had any work done on my Dodge Nitro. Thanks for everything guys. Great prices and awesome service!!!!!

Jeffrey N.

Source: YELP

13/07/2015

This place is great. The owner Mac, is honest and the work is done quickly and cleanly. The prices are reasonable and I trust that the work is done right and my best interests are always taken into consideration. For example, he found a leak and called the dealership to find out if my car was still under factory warranty. He told me where to take it and who to ask for.

Therese M.

Source: YELP

23/07/2015

I just moved to Oceanside and needed an oil change after a long drive. I looked at the reviews on Yelp for a mechanic shop and really liked the reviews for Oceanside Automotive. I called and spoke with Mac about an oil change and he quoted me a price which I thought was fair. I was able to get my truck in the shop the next morning and was able to get an oil change and tire rotation in a little over an hour. They even fixed my squeaking clutch which had been annoying me for quite some time, for no extra charge! While I waited Mac and I had a friendly conversation about living here and it was nice to talk with a local for a bit as I'm new to the area. I would definitely recommend this shop!

Christopher B.

Source: YELP

20/01/2015

I give it a no star for the crappy customer services! I paid $52 for a smog and he didn't clarify what smog I was getting and now I have to redo my smog and waste $52!

Lemwannde L.

Source: YELP

17/06/2015

Took my 1994 Lexus LS400 in for a routine service and check-up. I was tired of paying my old foreign auto repair shop hundreds - even thousands - of dollars for routine services. They performed a complete inspection and made simple, clear recommendations on what they were seeing. We decided together to fix the important problems and the repairs came in under quote. Mac and his staff (AB) were honest, sincere and very professional. I never felt pressured and the work was completed without delay. They have earned my future business for my other two family vehicles. Thanks for a the first great auto repair experience in a LONG time!

Thomas F.

Source: YELP

09/08/2014

My AC went out in my car about 6-8 months ago, and I delayed getting it fixed because I was worried about the astronomical costs I was sure I would acquire to fix it. I finally caved in one day and decided to get an estimate at Oceanside Automotive since they are so close to my home. From the moment I walked in I felt like I was being treated like family, not only with fairness but with respect as well. Their customer service is outstanding! I instantly felt comfortable and I knew they would not rip me off, like I have been SO many other times at different auto shops. Within a few hours they fixed my AC as well as a headlight issue I was having, all for a very fair price. From now on I will only let Mac and the guys at oceanside automotive touch my car, I wouldn't trust anyone else!

Candice P.

Source: YELP

22/10/2014

First off, Mac and his crew are awesome people. Second, they do amazing work. Third, they do quality work for a fair price. With those things out of the way I should say that Mac is extremely knowledgeable about cars, trucks and anything else he repairs. I have had all my vehicles work on at his shop, from brakes, smog, ignition work and he has nailed the problem the first time, every time. His pricing estimates are usually in point, unless he finds another issue but he calls you and makes you aware of said issue before just charging you. If you want quick, quality, professional work, then this is the place to go.

David B.

Source: YELP

15/08/2013

I have had both my cars serviced at this place. The workers are honest and will offer you a decent price. The owner (Mac) is very humble, I have worked with him several times. Given my busy schedule he was flexible and more than willing to work with me. I have no problem leaving my car with Oceanside Automotive, they are very trustworthy.
Toni B: The only reason why there would be any type of delay or wait is because they are very loyal and committed to their customers.

Eunice A.

Source: YELP

28/09/2014

Mac is the man. He gets the job done right and I can count on it. Prices are pretty decent. Especially on bigger builds he can work with you on price. I drive a 99 jeep wrangled TJ. When I'm too busy and can't work on it myself or it's outside my skill level he's the man I go to. I've gone to other places but the product is so much more reliable by going to Mac. He's done everything for me from ordering new wheels and tires to dropping a whole new motor in it . Trust worthy group of guys he's got working there.

Spencer B.

Source: YELP

01/08/2014

Unlike most other car centers, Mac and his staff treat you well. They give personal attention to what you need and are honest and dependable. You are not just someone they can bill when they are done working on your car. They treat you like family (the good kind) so I will definitely keep coming back if I need anything done.

Candy H.

Source: YELP

08/12/2014

Nice guys, do good work, pretty pricey but you get what you play for, did good work on my car quick with new ordered parts but once again a expensive place.

Jake M.

Source: YELP

13/11/2014

Love this place and the people who work there. Mac is very thorough at explaining what is needed and there's no pressure to have it all done, just suggesting things that will be coming up for servicing. I brought my truck there for an oil change and mentioned a blinker problem I was having (for over 3 years the bulbs just kept going but it wasn't the bulb but rather something with the socket). When I came to pick up the truck from the LOF the blinker socket was fixed at no charge. Been going here since we moved to Oceanside last December and will continue to take my truck here for whatever repairs are needed.

Karen B.

Source: YELP

09/06/2012

I am using my wife's Yelp account because I don't get online to rate businesses very often at all, but after reading the 10 reviews that Oceanside Automotive (OA) received, I had to write my own. 2-Stars from Sunny S. because you called around and other shops had other advice to try and lure you over to them, c'mon. 3-Stars from Cheeky R. for having to return because of minor mistakes, understandable. 1-Star from Toni-B because you walked into a busy auto shop and expected to be served right there and then...you should remove your review. Any reliable and trustworthy shop is usually always busy and MOST people know before bringing their car in they should call first. 1-Star from Jamie M...your story is very hard to believe.
I have been taking my two Civics here for about three years now and Mac (owner) has done nothing but great quality work to both my cars. I have had brake jobs, A/C fixes, basic issues like my alarm and automatic windows, routine maintenance including oil changes and transmission/coolant flushes, and most recently an expensive transmission/clutch and radiator job. Both cars are driving perfectly as of now and it should definitely be expected. OA is not the cheapest place to get your car fixed, but Mac has been in the business for 35 years and is a very trustworthy business owner who's first priority is to serve his customers, not make a profit. I personally trust his judgment and if you are looking for an auto repair shop you can trust to fix your car the right way instead of quoting you the cheapest estimate around, OA is the place. Mac and his crew are great, bottom line.

Dani J.

Source: YELP

06/01/2014

Just moved to California two weeks ago. Took my car here to get serviced from the cross country trip we just made. Walked in and the workers immediately struck up conversation. They were helpful in all way. Had to wait about an hour for the car but it was okay. Came back, to my car oil changed...fluids checked...and tires rotated without even asking me. Price was fantastic. Will not be taking my cars anywhere else around here! Great place.

Sarah M.

Source: YELP

05/08/2013

I made an appointment & took my car in today for an oil change & tire rotation. Luis at the front counter was so professional, knowledgeable & nice. He took the time to explain things to me & so nice I feel like I made a new friend! Excellent service. I will definitely be bringing in our truck for service, also. Highly recommend this place.

S. B.

Source: YELP

12/07/2013

My mom and I come here for all our car troubles. All the staff is great Mac, the owner is a sweety. They will do whatever they can to get you back on the road (or stay on the road) for the lowest price. Great customer service, great people! My mom and I love them so much we will bring them baked goods! I recommend them to you!

Rachael H.

Source: YELP

06/09/2012

I came here after finding this place on Yelp and reading the reviews. I am very satisfied with the quality of service and treatment I received. Mac treated me like a person, not a customer. We chit chatted for a bit while one of his technicians worked on my car. I didn't feel taken advantage of nor did I feel he was trying to upsale me on any other services. I will definitely come back for any other services my car may need. I've already referred his shop to some close friends.

Lisseth S.

Source: YELP

05/12/2011

I recently got an oil change here. I was satisfied with the service although there was a bit of a wait (~1 hour). It was Saturday morning, so that was to be expected though. I was satisfied with the staff, service and price for my oil change and will most likely be back since its right near my house.

Natalee B.

Source: YELP

16/09/2011

We recently relocated to Oceanside and needed smog tests for our 2 vehicles. Mac was extremely friendly, and the service was fast and affordable. I have yet to return for any other services but will give them a try.
Can't believe toni b. here gave this shop 1 star without actually having a service provided, which unfairly drags down their rating (Yelp should filter out this review). I respect them for being honest and giving priority to the customers that had already dropped off their cars for service...I wouldn't want them delaying my repairs for an extra day just to do a smog test for someone arriving at 4pm without an appointment.

Kevin B.

Source: YELP

07/09/2011

Went in and left all in 2 minutes!!! It was 345 and needed a smog test... Came in and the guy said O we are busy fixing a car that has been long over due so we cant do any other services right now. Then he said but you can come back tomorrow or Friday yada-yada-yada!!! I am thinking that's not much help! Wow should of called before I driven down here... guess its my fault too

Toni B.

Source: YELP

01/09/2010

I hate looking for a new mechanic, as I moved I had to. Bang on the owner was very informative and helpful. Service was efficient and they did more than they had to. Owner matched a competitors coupon for service. Staff was very attentive and made me feel like I hit the jackpot finding them. Sending recomendations out to all my neighbors. Being a chick, most places try to "invent" services that need to be done. Especially as I drive a '95 pathfinder. They checked all and reported everything was excellent.

Georgina M.

Source: YELP

29/08/2008

Oceanside Automotive offers full service care for most makes of cars.
The always seem to run an ad in the Pennysaver or Clipper magazine for a decent price on an oil change and tire rotation. They also offer competitive prices on scheduled maintenance services.
As a woman, I always feel as though I'm being taken advantage of when it comes to work on my car. At Oceanside Automotive, only the necessary work is recommended. They explain everything, why it's needed and they will also show you the part that needs to be replaced/repaired. I have never felt pressured to do any of the work and I have never felt as though I was being talked down to.
I gave then three stars because, although I have never had a problem, every time my husband has used their services he has had to return for something minor to be fixed. First time, they didn't tighten the oil cap (good thing we have a cat..that kitty litter really does work to soak up oil!), second time, they forgot to top off all of the fluids they said they would top off, third time (he was ready to find someone else but I encouraged him to return) the check engine light came on right after paying a lot of money for the 60k mile check.
Everything was fixed and put right but he didn't like the idea of having to return...who would?
All in all, I would recommend Oceanside Automotive if asked by a friend.

Pamela R.

Source: YELP

18/04/2012

This place is awesome. I came into Firestone on base in Camp Pendleton to fix a possible brake problem. After the inspection which took 4 hours, they contacted me and suggested that I needed a full brake job, new rotors, flush, etc. Total estimate: $650!!! Since I didn't have time to stick around all day, I decided to hold off and get a second opinion from Oceanside Automotive, which is literally a 2 minute walk from my house. Dropped it off at 10am and was contacted within an hour. Turns out that I did not need a full break job and that the only thing I needed was to replace the rear shock (which I had previously known). Only tying needed to be done as far as the brakes was to resurface the rotors! Total estimate: $350! I highly recommend this place to anyone needing auto repair IR maintenance. The staff were professional and best of all, HONEST!!! Its tough to find places like these nowadays. I've been a loyal Firestone customer for years, and although at times I felt that I was being ripped off, I stuck around just for the sake of the company name. After this experience, I don't think ill ever take my vehicles anywhere else! Thank you Oceanside Automotive! You just gained a very loyal customer! Bravo Zulu!

Mark N.

Source: YELP

30/09/2012

It is very difficult to find a trustworthy and honest automotive technician, but rest assured, you have found one in Mac, and Oceanside Automotive is the place to be. My husband was an automotive technician for 40 years and of course he always took care of our vehicles, but before he passed away he told me to take our cars to Mac at Oceanside Automotive because he knew Mac to be a good technician and "you can trust him" he said. That was three years ago, and I have found Mac to be everything my husband said he was--an excellent technician, knowledgeable and straightforward. Service is always prompt, and friendly, and prices are very reasonable. I rely on Mac now, and highly recommend Oceanside Automotive to you, as well.

Mary Beth R.

Source: YELP

22/05/2010

Informative staff, friendly services, honest, and great prices.

Joseph M.

Source: YELP

07/02/2012

This place is horrible! Took our car there to try and figure out why the battery kept dying and a routine fluid check and also a oil change. It took them 5 days to do that, then my husbands car was not fixed. It started over heating and acting different. We were going to take it to another shop to see what is wrong with it and the motor blew up after OCEANSIDE AUTOMOTIVE had worked on it! THEY DID NOT put OIL back into our car. They DID NOT put the oil filter on correctly. There was holes for the antifreeze that's why it suddenly started overheating. We had just got this car in May 2011. This should not have happened!!! They pretty much drained all fluids and did not put any back in. Would not recommend this place to anyone!! This place did not desserve a star but I had to put one to post review.

Jamie M.

Source: YELP

04/10/2013

i have been having my trucks and jeeps worked on here for three years as needed. mac is the owner of the business. he is honest and hard working. he sticks to his word and makes sure he does what it takes to get your vehicle to you when you need it. his staff is outstanding. the are hard working, honest and very polite. mac will go out of his way to help you including to give you the best price possible. i recommend this place 110% especially to military because mac will not steer you wrong. mac and his staff go out of their way to help you in anyway they can. this place is wonderful!!!!!

Jessica P.

Source: YELP

28/03/2009

I needed a smog certificate and on an early Saturday morning went to my regular guy who owns a small single-employee test shop. I've never had a problem with him before and he's very honest, however for some strange reason he was closed that day.
I saw an ad in the Pennysaver for Oceanside Automotive with a coupon for a 28:95 smog check. I historically have had horrible luck hiring anybody that advertises in the Pennysaver, so I was skeptical. Since my regular place was closed and the price was right I gave it a chance, mainly because I knew the condition of the car and that it should pass.
The guy was friendy, had a nice shop, and seemed honest. Nevertheless, I was just waiting for them to invent some reason for the car not to pass so they could charge me to "fix it". Shops can do a lot of things to keep a car from passing; some outright dishonest, and others just due to lack of effort, such as warming-up the engine first.
Later-on, as I was impatiently waiting for the sure to be coming bad news, to my pleasant surprize, the owner called me to the counter and said that I just passed one of the most difficult tests of my life.
Everything said, it all went well and was a good, if not great experience. I'm still skeptical, because it's the Pennysaver and an auto-service buisiness; but until I find out differently would have to give these guys at least a 4 star rating.

DaMan H.

Source: YELP

16/07/2016

Mac hooked it up! Such a great shop and run by the best! Very genuine employees. Took my Mini Cooper in for a check engine light and they gave me the best deal in town. Charged 50% + less than the dealership. Amazing!

Bridget Brown

Source: FBOOK

09/01/2016

Mac is the man! I have taken a few of my vehicles to Oceanside Automotive over the years and everytime I have, he has been straight-up with me and let me know if there was something I could do to fix it easily and never tried to shake me down for a bunch of cash. Only shop I have ever recommended to my friends and clients.

Gregory Ryan Bacon

Source: FBOOK

19/12/2015

The owner Mac is truly a blessing!!!! He not only get your car right but he also encourages you while you're there. He has been a blessing to me and I would recommend him to anyone who needs their car fixed or needs some encouragement. God bless his shop and his mechanics.

Chanelle Wright

Source: FBOOK

01/07/2016

Honesty and integrity Professional and courteous service

Carrie McCracken

Source: FBOOK

21/11/2014

love this place

Mac McCracken

Source: FBOOK

24/06/2016

Wilmer Ventura

Source: FBOOK

23/04/2016

Nick Fiore

Source: FBOOK

30/06/2015

Linda FitzGibbon

Source: FBOOK

05/08/2013

Very friendly, knowledgable shop. Came in for an oil change & tire rotation. Excellent service. Will definitely be back!

Sandee Beare

Source: FSQR

09/07/2016

My A/C went out in the middle of July. I was visiting a relative and had to get back home to Oregon. Mac agreed to have his team make fix the same day. I couldn't be happier.

Bob Yoshida

Source: GPLAC

14/05/2016

Once again! Mac and his team did an awesome job on taking care of my car at a good price! Highly recommend this shop to everyone!

Nick Fiore

Source: GPLAC

17/06/2016

Mac and his team have always been professional, done excellent work, and clearly explained the options and priorities.

James Deasy

Source: GPLAC

22/09/2015

I've been using Mac's place for a few years. Smogged a few cars and did some repair work. Did a good job. My Dodge truck broke down yesterday on the way to work and while I was waiting for the tow truck to take me to a place they recommended, that I never heard of, I decided to take it to Oceanside Automotive. Mac told me once that he worked for a Dodge dealer, and the fact that he drives a Dodge truck was enough to convince me to have the tow truck driver tow it Oceanside Automotive. It's in the shop being worked on, but I'm very confident his crew will do a great job on it. I have no worries.

Ralph Weller

Source: GPLAC

13/05/2015

They were some of the most helpful Mechanics I have met. They cared about my problem and made sure that I was ready to get back on the road. I highly recommend them if you are in need of repair!

andrew hegge

Source: GPLAC

06/05/2009

Superior Service

I took my car to Oceanside Automotive for a lube, oil and filter change. The price was right, less than $30.00 and they used the best quality oil. They inspected my car and rotated my tires all for this amazing price. I was in and out. …

Ellen R

Source: INPAG

30/12/2014

Oceanside Automotive

I took my car in to be serviced at Oceanside Automotive for an oil and filter change and for a 22 point inspection which included having (my transmission fluid, brake fluid, belts, set the tire pressure on all four tires, and brakes…

Frances D

Source: INPAG

We work with these brands

Acura
BMW
Chevrolet
Chrysler
GMC
Genesis
Infiniti
Jeep
Land Rover
Lexus
MINI
Mazda
Mitsubishi
RAM

We perform these services

Diagnostics

  • Computerized vehicle diagnostics
  • Troubleshooting and repair of warning lights

Electrical Systems

  • Battery testing and replacement
  • Alternator repair
  • Starter repair and replacement
  • Electrical diagnostics and repairs

Engine Services

  • Engine repair and rebuilds
  • Cooling system service and repair
  • Exhaust system repair

HVAC Services

  • Air conditioning repair and recharge
  • Heating system repair
  • Cabin air filter replacement

Oil Changes

  • Standard and synthetic oil changes
  • Oil filter replacement
  • Fluid level checks and top-ups