07/07/2016

Everyone here is amazing. The service is exceptional. It's a small place and a little out of the way from the other autos shops, but if you care about your car you would make the extra couple turns to come here. I came in for a simple oil change and then asked them to check a couple other pieces. They brought them back to me to show me, clearly not trying to sell me things I didn't need yet.
Also, I'd say it's important to note that this is the only review I've ever felt compelled to write.

Jon H.

Source: YELP

01/07/2016

UPDATED REVIEW.....7/1/2016
More than 5 stars are required for Cal West Auto!!! Yesterday our son's car overheated on his way home from his very first interview. He called us a bit rattled....obviously! Hubby drove the car straight to Cal West last night around 5:30 pm. Steve and his darling wife Brandi were ready for them when they arrived with the car. They stopped what they were doing and dove into the hood of our son's car! Their family is so special and so kind, they told us not to worry and that they would find a solution and get our son back on the road ASAP! We left the car knowing that it was in the very best shop around. This morning we got the call that the car was all ready to go! I can't even say how relieved I was that my son would have his car back already!!! We stopped in and visited with their awesome family and were out the door in no time at all! THANK YOU AGAIN CAL WEST AUTO! You are all absolutely AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!
There are not enough stars here! I cannot say enough about how wonderful these people are!!!! After 6 wks, 1 auto repair shop and the Escondido Mitsubishi service dept, and $2000 later, we were left with a car that was overheating and not drivable! We were absolutely furious!!! It's my 17 yr old son's car. Every day he would ask me "is my car ready yet?" And for 6 weeks I had to tell him "no, they are waiting on parts", "no, they don't know what's wrong with it", "I don't know when you'll get it back". My husband drove the overheating car all the way from Poway to San Marcos and it was scary! I was scrambling to find another repair shop quickly. My search lead me to Cal West! My husband showed up with the overheating car at 3:00 yesterday. We didn't know if we should just sell the car for parts or just push it off a cliff!!! Not one of the shops we took it to before could figure out how to fix the issue of it overheating! My husband talked to Steve and my son and I came to the shop to pick my husband up. It had been such a long grueling day. Steve and his fabulous crew said with huge smiles "Don't worry! We'll get your car running!" They were all so upbeat, happy and positive! I suddenly felt a huge sigh of relief. Steve called my husband maybe 30 minutes later and had diagnosed the issue! He said he'd order the parts and get back to us. We know from our experiences everywhere else that ordering parts can take a very very long time. So, we were hoping for the best and that someday our son would get his car back. After about 2 hrs, Steve called. I was afraid it was going to be something crazy and that the car was just worthless. But that's not what happened!!! Steve said the car was fixed and ready to go!!!! I seriously started crying! When we got to the shop I was overwhelmed with gratitude! The whole crew stopped what they were doing on a Friday late afternoon to dive in and fix our son's car! I cannot possibly thank them enough! Because of them, my son was able to drive himself to school today to get extra credit. We will NEVER bring our cars anywhere else!!!! You guys are absolutely amazing! Your family is amazing and I'm so glad we found you! I will recommend you to everyone and anyone from now on! We will be back!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH CAL WEST!!!!!!!!!!!

Samahna S.

Source: YELP

09/06/2016

Here's my deal - I've been to SO many stupid, "all we want is your money" places, than can give two shits about your car. I'm not exaggerating when I say that either. But then, i got referred to this place. I made an appointment the day before for an oil change and the guy was super nice over the phone!
My appointment was at 9am. I came through the door, the super nice guy took down all my info, and even made me coffee while I wait!!!! (if that doesn't scream awesome, then I don't know what to tell ya)
I appreciate how attentive he was to my car and how HONEST he was. Most places aren't nowadays. He personally came inside the waiting area to tell me about certain parts of my car and what his next actions were. I absolutely loved how he was keeping me informed about everything! Cal West Auto Center is well ran by some of the nicest guys I've ever met. I might be moving to vista soon BUT I will for sure make my way down here just to get my car worked on by these guys! They are awesome!

Eva R.

Source: YELP

16/07/2016

Definitely one of the best car repair experiences I've ever had. Let's face it, nobody likes to get their car repaired... it's a hassle, costs a lot of money and unless you're a car person it's hard to tell if you're getting ripped off or not. Well, the guys at Cal West are as honest at it comes. I had the pleasure of working with Steve to get my power brake booster replaced and he was awesome. He came out, inspected the car with me and told me exactly what was wrong and what needed to be fixed. No BS up sells on stuff I didn't need.. (none of the "your air filter is dirty but we can replace it for $40" tricks like the oil change places) On top of that, their labor prices are cheaper than most in the area. I will be coming back and would recommend them to anyone in the area who needs an HONEST mechanic.

Todd G.

Source: YELP

20/06/2016

I am so relieved to have discovered Cal West! I found them by referral from a friend of mine, which is always good. So I decided to get my oil changed and new brake pads put on my car. Steve was awesome, the price he quoted me was exactly what I paid out the door. And it was very reasonable!! He was able to get all the work done in no time! I am so relieved to have a reliable mechanic that cares more about the safety of his customers than making money.
Steve got done in 2 hours what took Honda over 8 hours on my car last time. AND his price was about $400 less than Honda AND he used better quality products.

Hope F.

Source: YELP

16/06/2016

We needed and oil change and brake light fixed before a big trip this weekend and with work time is tight. I went to a place recommended to me at 4:20 and they rudely told me NO because they close at 5 so I hopped on YELP and found these guys were open till 6.
They were so nice and didn't complain about my crazy kid scoping out the fish tank, water cooler, and magazines or my toddler trying to jump on the couches. They even let my son make hot chocolate for a snack. Later he said, "That guy was great, Mom. And that was yummy."
The guys were quick and efficient with a great price. We obviously didn't have an appointment, but we still felt welcomed. The waiting area is spacious with two leather couches and a chair. We liked the old cans decorating the ceiling. It was a clean area as well and no smells like at other shops.
Oil change price for 5.5 was about $80
Brake light on an SUV was about $50

Megan N.

Source: YELP

08/02/2016

Customer Service is Fantastic. Steve was able to diagnose everything that was wrong with the truck. He took the time to explain and show me what needed to be done and why. He gave me a great price for all the work and I am very happy. I highly recommend them and for the first time in a long time I can actually say that I can trust the diagnosis and the quality of work. He has a customer for life.
Great job Steve at Cal West Auto Center.

Johnny J.

Source: YELP

13/02/2016

I just recently moved to the area and needed an oil change I looked on Yelp and I decided to go here due to the good reviews. I am very happy I went here everyone is so nice and did a great job! I highly recommend going here with your vehicle!

Elizabeth P.

Source: YELP

06/07/2015

We were in the area and spontaneously decided to get an oil change, since we were due for one. I can honestly say that this was an amazing experience to say the least. The customer service was superb. The owner explained to us the different benefits of oils, and even showed us that there was plastic in our engine! They had a lovely daughter that was very friendly and talked to us through our wait. The prices are great, and they even offer a 10% military discount. This business is very friendly, family oriented, and extremely professional. Will be returning.

Nathalie O.

Source: YELP

27/02/2016

If you're looking for a new forever auto repair shop who can handle any job including oil changes and brakes, Cal West Auto is it! Just switched over to them from an auto repair place in Encinitas where I became dissatisfied with their work and integrity. My only regret is I wish I would have switched over sooner. Steve and Andrew at Cal West are extremely knowledgeable and thorough, and most importantly honest. You hear it in their voice and see it in their eyes; they take pride in their work and make sure you leave there with the highest level of service. They are efficient in diagnosing the issue and providing a solution, and take the time to explain everything in the most practical way. Best of all their prices are extremely reasonable. You're greeted and checked in & out by Brandi, who handles the business aspect and is so friendly and welcoming. Convenient hours and they're open on Saturdays! So refreshing to find these guys who run an auto repair business like it should be run. My first visit here a week ago was for a radiator job- they did fantastic and I was extremely satisfied with their quality of work and overall experience... they are now my go-to for all my auto repair needs. I highly recommend them. Cal West Auto, you are a rare gem... Thank you!!!

Teresa R.

Source: YELP

25/06/2015

Great local service at a reasonable cost. Bruno was very accommodating and did an excellent job!! I will return to have my regular service maintenance done vice going to a dealer. Family owned business who treat customers like an extended member of their family .

Isaac H.

Source: YELP

14/09/2015

My elderly Aunt took her automobile to the local Hyundai Dealer for an oil change. When she picked the car up the service writer told her she needed a lot of work done to her car - engine gaskets replaced, spark plugs replaced, struts replaced etc etc.and he could have all of this done for her for only $4000.00. My Aunt called me and we took her car to Cal West who inspected the car and said what they found would only cost 1/3 of the estimate that the Hyundai service writer had quoted. Obviously we had Cal West repair the items they found and my Aunt is completely satisfied with the car and will continue to use Cal West for all of her automobile repair needs. We highly recommend Cal West for all of your repairs.

Ken H.

Source: YELP

20/11/2014

I always enjoy coming here. Every one is very accommodating and friendly. Amazing customer service! I have never had such an awesome experience at any other shop. Also the prices are fair and they even some complimentary lattes!
The first time I came here I had a little trouble finding the location but if you drive around the back you will find it.

Cesar Á.

Source: YELP

01/04/2015

I really like this place! It is a no nonsense type of Auto center. For my Honda Accord they charged me a very reasonable price for an oil change. Waaay better then the other place called Brake Stop! Everything was great with them except one thing... They close at 5 30 pm, and one time I came in at 5 o'clock, they would not take my car. So I would suggest you get there early in the day or call ahead.

Wendy M.

Source: YELP

04/09/2015

Great place to have an oil change. Had an oil change on my camaro. Everything is just right about the place. Friendly and professional. They treat you like friend and try to give you the best service at the lowest price possible. They don't try to take your money like others auto shop. If you want to get car service or check up your car just go there, it will be worth your time and money. People at the shop can be trusted.

Koedchai S.

Source: YELP

19/09/2015

Bruno is amazing. I had him work on my 1995 Tahoe and Bruno saved me hundreds of dollars in repair costs. Bruno was able to repair parts that would have costs me a fortune to replace. Bruno and his wife are super friendly.

Michel U.

Source: YELP

06/07/2015

The service here is outstanding and prices are fair. Bruno and Jay went out of their way to explain the problem my car was having and they were very thorough making sure they found all possible problems. I feel so lucky to have found them and not only will this be the only place my car ever has any work done,. I am spreading the word to my friends and family.

Carmen O.

Source: YELP

19/09/2015

Cal West Auto Center is awesome! I know the basics when it comes to cars, and trying to find a shop that will not charge you an arm and a leg for something that I cant do myself, is difficult. i stumbled upon CWAC on yelp and the reviews were outstanding. I came to cal west because of break problems. Extremely fair prices, customer service is amazing. Bruno and Jay really took care of me. They are very knowledgable. I explained to them my situation and told them I was on a really tight budget and they were able to finance me and get me back out on the road the same day! I will definitely recommend this place to anyone that needs repairs done to their car right the first time, wether big or small. Thanks Cal West! will definitely be returning.

Kevin C.

Source: YELP

29/10/2014

I take my car to Cal West Auto for all my work. It is a Mercedes E550. I used to go to the dealership but Ray and his guys do way better work and at a much better price. Highly recommend.

Chris B.

Source: YELP

08/11/2014

Great work! Fast and fair pricing for my Volkswagen Passat....oil change $65 for synthetic :)

Frida a.

Source: YELP

03/11/2014

Fair prices, great customer service!!!

Meagan W.

Source: YELP

09/08/2013

I needed to get my coolant changed but everywhere I called wanted me to pay about $100... NOT THIS PLACE! they only charged me $60 even, no joke.
Ray and Tom were the guys working that day and they were very social, friendly and helpful and they got the job done in about 45 minutes! My hood is also broken and Tom (the technician) said he could fix that for me at a low cost, so Ray went ahead and started inquiring with local junkyards to try and get me the small parts I needed to get this thing fixed and told me to call back when I was ready and he would provide me with a quote.
This a great experience and was more than I expected. I recommend this place everyone!

Tim S.

Source: YELP

19/11/2014

Came into this shop for a very overdue oil change. Ray was very friendly and helpful talking to me about my car. I appreciated his kindness. Good price Good shop

Ray C.

Source: YELP

10/07/2014

Ray was friendly on the phone and let me know the best time to bring in my car for an oil change. He didn't try to sell me anything extra and let me know about one thing they found in my inspection that's not urgent, but I should keep an eye on. I would definitely recommend this shop to friends: clean, friendly, and honest!

Karen H.

Source: YELP

26/08/2014

Always a great experience here. I never leave feeling cheated, as I have in the past by other shops. I left my truck over night and they didn't charge an overnight fee. When I picked it up I took a latte to go. This is my go to place

Tony N.

Source: YELP

23/03/2015

This place is by far the best auto place I've ever been to! Ray, the guy who owns this place is awesome. The first car I bought, I brought here for service and these guys just did an amazing job! They're so nice and kind and on top of that, they really take care of you! The prices here are so much better than other places and they definitely tell you what is urgent and what isn't. Other places will tell you what things your car will need and pressure you do it then and there, but not here. They let you know what you should keep an eye on and things they would recommend and actually explain why certain things happen the way they do. But overall, this is my to go place and It will be as long as I live in Cali! I already brought my second vehicle over here and again, did an awesome job! I strongly recommend this place to anyone who is looking for really good, honest, and awesome service for their vehicle.

Michael G.

Source: YELP

19/05/2014

I had quite a lot of trouble with my Mini Cooper, the thing was literally falling apart. These guys put that thing back together again and it's been running fine ever since.
Ray was great - he explained the issues very well and was always very frank and upfront about everything. I live near downtown, which makes it a bit of a trip up there, but these guys make it worth the trip.

James J.

Source: YELP

05/09/2012

These guys have worked on 3 of my cars. The are very fair on pricing and I didn't feel like they were "Looking" for random stuff to fix. They know a lot about German cars too.

Steve G.

Source: YELP

21/09/2013

This has to be the best experience I have ever had with a mechanic. Ray was honest and very straight up I usually never take a mechanics word because I feel like I'm getting hustled when I walk threw the door but not in this case. Most importantly if your about getting a bang for your buck this is the place 2 go.

Chris J.

Source: YELP

21/01/2014

I have used Ray (the guy on the right) and his crew at Cal West for all different kinds of challenges - brakes, repair bumper when it caught on a concrete stop (two different cars) and HONEST is the best thing I can say about them. Those 3 repairs cost me $42.50 each when I was expecting a lot more. He gets all of my business now!
John

John N.

Source: YELP

13/08/2013

Friendly & sincere staff with prices you can't beat! They truly care about you as an individual and will work with you whether if its taking you in after hours or if it's giving you great auto advice without taking advantage of you. I'm definitely returning for other fixes...my new go to service place!

Hana L.

Source: YELP

06/03/2013

Came in thinking I Had a wheel bearing issue on my audi a5. Ray told me to come on in for a free inspection. Found it to be that the tire shop that installed my tires cross threaded bolts on my driver side causing the rim to shake and make noise. Ray was very helpful and his staff is very knowledgeable. Wouldn't mind taking my car back here for any service or maintenance work (really good rates). Hard to find a shop like this!

Orlando C.

Source: YELP

10/09/2013

I came into this shop and told Ray that I was hearing a thumping sound by the belts in my 2007 Camry. I was getting ready to go on a trip and wanted to be sure this was nothing to be concerned with. They did a quick inspection and found right away that the bearing in the alternator was going out. I therefore had to have the alternator replaced and there is no longer that thumping noise.
Ray was polite, helpful and friendly. Since he and the other mechanic knew I was going on a trip they checked out my car and topped off my coolant and added a quart of oil without any extra charge. Even added air to the tires which I knew I had to do before I left.
As a woman going into a auto repair business with "a noise" you appreciate it when you don't feel like you are being ripped off. I would difinately recommend this business.

Gail R.

Source: YELP

25/06/2013

This shop is very honest and they do a great job. Would highly recommend. I have taken my car there multiple times and will be taking it there for the foreseeable future.

B A.

Source: YELP

29/01/2014

This place is hands down the best mechanic shop anywhere. The owner, Ray, is so trustworthy, honest, and upfront. Not only can you trust this place but they have the best prices in town and tell you what your paying ahead of time so there are no surprises. I recommend everyone to use this place for any of their needs!

Amanda S.

Source: YELP

07/02/2013

i have been to several auto repair shops in north county and this place was by far highly recommended and I'm glad that I came. I received a quote for a repair that I didn't need. Ray was very honest and peofessional - he went out if his way to order my parts and gave me a very reasonable quote. He even offered to give me a ride back to work if I needed it. Waiting area and shop was very nice and clean. He even referred me to another shop to assist with my stereo for free. Ray has made my experience very easy and fast. I would recommend this shop for all your auto repair needs. I appreciate honest and reliable service - this place is definitely worth it. Thanks Ray and staff - sallie

Sallie G.

Source: YELP

20/10/2012

These guys are great! Service was first class! Great experience and recommend to everyone.

Tim O.

Source: YELP

09/10/2012

These guys know what they are doing, prices are great, and the quality of the work is hard to match. Sam (owner) is a car guy himself, and very knowledgable. I have had my BMW serviced here for quite a few things, and they always do an amazing job.

Vlad G.

Source: YELP

29/06/2016

I just got my truck back after new shocks and struts... I'm very happy.

David Kaplar

Source: FBOOK

04/10/2015

The Owners of this shop are car lovers. They Know and care about the cars they work on. If you want impeccable service done right the FIRST time then you should take your vehicle here. They work on everything from classic show cars, Import Vehicles, to everyday driver American cars. If it has a motor they can fix it!!! You can trust this shop!!

Rob Martinez

Source: FBOOK

15/07/2014

Cal West Auto is all about efficiency and customer service. They care about the car and the customer. Thats what makes them the best in my eyes...

Omaha Strangler

Source: FBOOK

29/11/2015

CAL WEST AUTO CENTER is the best " Family's owned shop" that you can find In the SD North County area..! For your domestic, classic or European !

Bruno Groupierre

Source: FBOOK

20/10/2014

Great service

Jay Lee

Source: FBOOK

30/07/2014

Dirk Vandeman

Source: FBOOK

15/07/2014

John Seals III

Source: FBOOK

15/07/2014

Tanya Rivera Faust

Source: FBOOK

05/10/2013

Molly Bentzen

Source: FBOOK

13/09/2013

Art Piñon

Source: FBOOK

20/08/2013

Pedro Sánchez

Source: FBOOK

20/06/2013

Azy Hojatpanah

Source: FBOOK

20/06/2016

I am so relieved to have discovered Cal West! I found them by referral from a friend of mine, which is always good. So I decided to get my oil changed and new brake pads put on my car. Steve was awesome, the price he quoted me was exactly what I paid out the door. And it was very reasonable!! He was able to get all the work done in no time! I am so relieved to have a reliable mechanic that cares more about the safety of his customers than making money. Steve got done in 2 hours what took Honda over 8 hours on my car last time. AND his price was about $400 less than Honda AND he used better quality products.

Hope Fitting

Source: GPLAC

04/09/2015

Awesome and honest place to take your vehicle, the owners are down to earth and trustworthy. They have a great military discount and treat you like family.

Daniel Dumas

Source: GPLAC

09/04/2014

Hand down the best overall experience when it comes to anything auto. It's a hidden gem! Ray and Tom spoke candidly and professionally when it came to my Audi. There was never a moment when I felt like being hustled or needed to haggle on the repair/inspection costs. Their pricing took me by complete surprise! They are very low and fair. Their friendly, professional approach to servicing my car saved me a lot on my wallet as well as stress. For those who are reluctant to switch auto care centers, I'd recommend going to Cal West Auto Center at least once and you will get hooked with the entire experience. Plus, their coffee machine is amazing!

Shimon Hasegawa

Source: GPLAC

05/09/2012

If you're looking for an honest group of people, this is your place! They know EVERYTHING about cars and they are very reasonable on the pricing. Highly recommended.

Steve George

Source: GPLAC

27/03/2012

Very nice guys! Ask for Sam, he is very knowledgeable.

Mauricio Martinez

Source: GPLAC