AAMCO Transmissions & Total Car Care

Reviews

Reviews are sorted by relevance, with the most helpful and insightful feedback listed first for easy reference.

  Ed C.
5 months ago
I had the best experience at AAMCO Chula Vista. My vehicle had a transmission cooler line leak and figured it would be down for a couple of weeks. They got me in and out in just half a day and at a great price! I was amazed. I want to give a shout out to Memo. He took care of me like I was family. His honesty, communication, and customer service is 2nd to none. He was clear explaining the diagnosis and recommended repair. I travel back and forth to San Diego regularly and depend on a reliable vehicle when I'm there. I will be taking my vehicle to AAMCO for all servicing. If you are looking for a reliable shop give these guys a call. They will take care of you. Also, ask for Memo!Thanks, EdService: Transmission

  Rusty Ch
2 weeks ago
This particular AAMCO was the cleanest and most organized I ve been to. With a AAMCO lifetime warranty on my car since 1988, the warranty requires a free inspection each year to remain valid so I ve been to many all over the country in the following years getting this requirement done wherever I was. They have a neat very clean waiting area with coffee. Restroom is likewise spotless which really helps. Service was very friendly.

  Memo Ramirez
a month ago
Everything went amazing. Memo helped me out from beginning to end and made sure everything was communicated. I am glad I went to this shop and will continue to do so .

  ARCHANGEL ARIEL 17 THE ETERNAL
2 months ago
Good morning Ron, I just left the shop a few minutes ago. I just have to tell you that I don't plan on returning. I made the effort to bring in the van 2 days in a row to find out about the noise it's making on a cold start. Yesterday i came in at opening, 8 am and because i had to drive it there the noise had gone away because of the motor being warm. I tried to let them hear recordings of it but that didn't help. So then I asked if I could bring it in today and Memo said yes. So I got off work last night and drove the van to the shop and stayed in it overnight so that they could finally listen to the problem in person and get a good idea of what's going on. So he tells one guy to go out and listen and I asked if one other guy ( the guy who tried to listen to it yesterday) could also come so that at least 2 instead of 1 guy can hear the noise. I started the engine and they heard it for themselves. They put the van on the lift and still could not even try to determine what it is. 1 guy was saying that it needs to be continuous and that they can't do anything if isnt continuous. Bottom line, I made the effort for them to finally hear the problem in person and it seems as if my business isn't important to them. While they were in the process of having the van on the lift another customer comes in and Memo told him that there's 1 car ahead of him but that it wouldn't be long before even getting word of anything from his guys concerning my van. It's as if he already had it in his mind that he wasn't planning on helping me to begin. To make matters worse, after they brought the van down from the lift and parked it in front, I go back in the office to see what we should do from there and immediately he steps into the work area and goes and chats and laughs with the workers for at least 5 minutes while I'm just standing there! I just don't think that is how you treat a customer that just had almost $1,500 with of work done and all he's doing to us trying to find and do business with a trustworthy auto repair shop. I just felt like my business isn't important to them and embarrassed when I left. I guess I will have to find a new repair shop that takes returning customers seriously because I really feel like Memo and his crew did not do that with me.

  Johnny Helton
3 months ago
Memo was super communicative and honest. I originally came in for some weird feelings in my second gear. Memo told me he had a few techs test the car and said it was most likely just due to my transmission fluids combined with the cold weather and that other than that my transmission was in great shape. I was super happy with the experience and honesty!

  Raymond Ball
a year ago
Held my vehicle for a week plus without ordering a part or attempting to fixing the actual problem. They were supposed to call Silver Rock (policy agency) and file a claim to get my repair done. I contacted the repair man nearly everyday asking if he had filed the claim and was told yes and that he was waiting on Silver Rock to approve it.I then contacted Silver Rock on three separate occasions to see if the claim had been filed with them and it hadn t.Finally, I arranged a three way phone call with Silver Rock and the AAMCO Manager, during which, Silver Rock informed the AAMCO Manager that no claim had been filed at all. The AAMCO manager persistently maintained that he filed the claim but had no claim number to show for it. I had to stay on the three way call for an hour plus to make sure the AAMCO manager properly filed the claim with Silver Rock and could order the part I needed and commence the repair. After the repair was completed, the original noise in the engine that brought me to the repair shop was still there. They didn t even fix my issue.They then told me after the fact that they found a service bulletin that applied to my vehicle and that was the reason my vehicle was making the loud noise. However, upon inspection of the service bulletin I found that it did not even apply to my make and model, they merely provided it to get me out of the way.This was the worst car repair experience I ve ever had in my entire life. I have been turned off from all AAMCOs in the future, never again.Update 04Oct2022: Just had a certified Honda dealership take a look at my vehicle the week after AAMCO said that they replaced the muffler and Honda is reporting that the muffler was not changed at all. Something bad is going on here

  Jose Aguayo
2 months ago
Long story short, they screwed up on so many levels, I can't believe they can get away with this. I got my car back in worse condition than when I brought it to them. They can't even put a tire on correctly.I first brought my car in due to noises and acceleration issues it made when the transmission was engaging or shifting gears.� They did a "full inspection" and told me the noises and acceleration issues are from worn u-joints and support bearings that needed to be replaced, and that they couldn't find anything else wrong. I was quoted with a $1300 repair that would only take a day.I agreed to it, and somehow it took over a week. I called every couple days and each time, the excuse was that their parts supplier kept bringing wrong or defective parts...� When it was finally done over a week later, I went to pick it up and there was a puddle of fluid under my car in the parking lot. I assumed it was from some other car that might have been parked there before... I also noticed one of the plastic panels from under my car was sticking out a bit, but I figured theres no need to bring up a small issue like that...I pay and get in my car to leave and notice that the clock was way off and my radio station presests were all gone (that means they disconnected the battery at some point, and didn't bother to set anything back).Right when I leave and get into the street, the car starts making a weird whining noise. But because it was a busy street, I had to turn and go elsewhere to make sure the sound wasn't from one of the other cars around me. It WAS coming from my car, but it went away after a couple minutes. Also, they were closing so I couldn't go back to get it checked that day, plus, i had to catch up on a lot of errands.While running errands, the plastic panel that they didn't properly screw back under my car partially came off and started scraping loudly on the road. I had to stop somewhere to get zip ties and temporarily put it back and away from the ground (so now the panel is ripped, scraped up, and zip tied in a weird position).While zip tying the panel underneath the bumper, I noticed another puddle that looked like oil. It turned out to be transfer case fluid, you can tell because it smells like rotten eggs.I brought it back the next morning, and they tell me they'd have to keep it for a day to look into the leak and that new odd whining noise coming from my car.They determined the problems have nothing to do with the work they did. They said the new noise and leak is coming from the transfer case, which just happens to connect directly to the parts they replaced... They said they didn't touch it, yet somehow inspected it the first time without touching it, and there was nothing wrong with it... they later admitted to opening it up to top off the fluid, but still claim nothing they did caused it to start leaking or making new noises...So, they have a shitty supplier of parts... But also, they can't diagnose the problem on inspection, they just throw parts at the problem (guess who pays for that?). Then, they refuse to take responsibility or even acknowledge when the work they fucked up on creates more problems... And that's not even the end of it.I get home and discover later the next day that one of the lug nuts on my front right tire was so loose, it came off with 3 turns by hand, no tools. WTF!?!Also, the initial issues that I brought it in for� never went away. Also, theres grease stains on the edge of the carpet and doorsill (I just had my carpet cleaned and shampooed less than 2 weeks 2 before taking it to them).

  Shane Thompson
5 months ago
Memo and team helped me out of a pickle when no one else would.I recently had my transmission rebuilt by a different AAMCO in another state. I paid quite a lot of money and bought the full warranty. The experience was very poor and I wasn t happy with the results, but I didn t have much I could do.After moving to CA shortly after, the transmission began developing problems. I needed to get the vehicle serviced, but other AAMCO s by me weren t interested in servicing another shop s warranty. They didn t flat out say no but no one would take it..Memo in CV however, took on my case. It took a while to get to the cause of my issue (it was a bad low gear sprag that caused the vehicle to dangerously lose its drive function at low speeds, like when crossing an intersection). And while the other shop should have provided the parts necessary when asked during Memo s warranty work, they didn t, but Memo carried on and eventually got me back up and running so I could take my family to school again.The work was significant. The warranty covered me 100% and though it took some time to sort out, I didn t have to pay a dime out of pocket which was important to me at the time.I really appreciate what Memo and team were able to do for me. So far the trans has been running well, and I have peace of mind that my car will continue to be covered for the remainder of my warranty.

  Vickie Rodriguez
3 months ago
I went in for a checkup on my transmission to AAMCO in Chula Vista and it was free to check car to make sure it had fluid. Me being a senior citizen and a woman by herself I was treated with respect and kindness and Memo explained everything to me where I could understand completely what to do next checkup which I appreciate that AAMCO has been a company that has been around for years that should tell you their company name speaks for itself. Thank you Vickie R. 1/8/2024

  mary
3 months ago
Service here was great. They were honest, kind, and communicative. They searched for what could be wrong with my car and made suggestions that were valid and in my best interest. Thanks to the team at AAMCO.

  John Wojcik
2 months ago
Great service and they stand behind their warranty. Abot 1 year after replacing my transmission, it failed again (car model prone to transmission failure) and was promptly repaired by AAMCO.

  Art Barajas
5 months ago
The service was top tier! Memo was incredibly professional, super helpful, knowledgeable and dedicated to helping customers. We were taken care of quickly, informed throughout the whole process and have outright become lifelong customers. We were able to use our SecureOne insurance coverage there which saved us thousands (literally). Everyone at AAMCO should be proud of their shop and the workers and technicians running it. When we run into any repairs in the future, they will be our first call.

  Todd Arnold
8 months ago
First Class facility! I have called this shop 6-8 times and the manager, Memo, has always been amazing with discussing potential problems, scheduling a free estimate, and following through with a breakdown of issues and costs. I was advised against doing a service to focus on a bigger issue BUT will for sure go back even if it s at a higher price to get a better service with people I like! Also, you will be hard pressed to find a cleaner automotive shop anywhere in San Diego. Keep up the good work my friends

  Anthony Chaney
5 months ago
Discussed the issues with my Toyota truck. Thought it would cost more than what was priced. Truck drives great. Just have to break in the new clutch.Services: Transmission, Air & cabin filter replacement, Exhaust, Steering & suspension repair, General repairs & maintenance, Engine repair, Oil changeServices: Transmission, Air & cabin filter replacement, Exhaust, Steering & suspension repair, General repairs & maintenance, Engine repair, Oil change

  K James
10 months ago
This shop is a great place to bring any vehicle, old or new.Their work is thorough, and service time was efficient.It was a huge weight lifted off my shoulders to find a place like this. I do not like dealership maintenance departments.This is the kind of place you can rely on to fix your vehicle problems, or just get a service like an oil change for reasonable prices.Service: Transmission

  Jose Contreras
3 months ago
I had recently had problems w my Honda Ridgeline truck & went to my usual mechanic who recommended replacement of the transmission for $3K used or $7k new! I looked online for causes of my issue (Blinking Drive light) and slipping. I decided to have AAMCO diagnose & they were able to replace a gear sensor for less than $700! Talk about a savings. The manager "Memo" even gave me an additional military discount & my truck runs great!

  Juan Gonzalez
6 months ago
The Team at AAMCO in Chula Vista got my car expertly serviced in a fraction of the time most shops usually do these days and now I m enjoying my main daily driver once again worry free.Thanks fellasService: TransmissionService: Transmission

  Ken Hardy
5 months ago
Memo was helpful and knowledgeable. Inspected my ride thoroughly and most importantly were honest. Didn t try to charge me for stuff I didn t need.Service: TransmissionService: Transmission

  Kelley Steele
2 years ago
I just want to correct the confusion of leaving my car with AAMCO. My car was damaged in the parking lot overnight and after a little investigating by the owner Ron we found that is what happened . I m here to say he really stepped up and took responsibility. Thank you Ron . Please let Joe know this lady ain t stupid neither this shop is alrightServices: Transmission, Electrical repair

  Deon Floydd
9 months ago
I dropped my car off on a Thursday morning for minor inconsistent grinding noise. I was told it'd be ready for pick up that afternoon. I did not receive a call or an email saying the shop was busy and would not be able to tend to my car that day. I called Friday morning to ask what was up with my car. They said that were busy, that's understandable, Friday around closing time still no follow up from AAMCO about the status of my vehicle. They are closed on weekends. I had to wait until Monday to see whats the status. They called and emailed me an outrageous price for parts, more than double retail from any auto parts store. It was in total for just parts around $1200. I bought the parts on my own for under $500. Again, I took my car in for a minor inconsistent grinding noise, nothing else. Upon picking up my car and barely getting down the street it began overheating, which it has never done. I park and get out to check it and it is leaking antifreeze, and not just drops here and there, it's a full stream. I have an older car and I keep a close eye on anything like that. My car did not have a leak prior to being at AAMCO for nearly 5 days. When I explained this to them they said the leak was there when it came in and that's how a water pump goes out. I took it to 2 mechanics, they both said it would not be a constant stream like that and that that's weird that it happened after a weekend. I also guess they forget that if a door is open sound can still travel through it. I heard the desk guy, Memo tell a mech, this guy doesn't know anything about cars show him the water pump. Don't let the smiles at the front door entice you. Also I just detailed my interior and there are some black stains on the interior of the roof of my car. I do not work anywhere near any dusty or dirty things that could stain my upholstery, also there's some weird film on my windshield now from I don't know where. So not only do they not respect the customer, they do not respect the vehicle as well. Save your time and money and go somewhere else. If I could give 0 stars I would. One of my worst experiences with a mechanic ever. Again, do not let the good customer service fool you. Anyone can smile for 5 minutes while charging you $3000.Update: My car was fixed at another shop for less than half the price. Apparently my timing belt miraculously slipped over the course of a weekend at AAMCO. Please go to any other shop for your repairs.

  Raul Ayala
6 months ago
After bringing in my first car I decided to have them check out the 2nd. Always got provided everything in perfect details for us non mechanics to understand. Honesty and details. You can't beat that!

  Patricia Harty
a year ago
Hi Ron-My experience with your AAMCO was A++++From the phone call I made & spoke to Memo, to explain my car situation, was just amazing. He was very kind & re- assuring. I researched a-lot of transmission places & all of your reviews were"awesome"!So I chose your business.I got there on time, Memo greeted me, & I waited in your very clean & nice waiting area, supplied with fresh cold water & coffees.Within the hour, Memo told me what the problem was & I was shocked - I did not need a new transmission, it was something extremely minor. Wow!I told Memo I would be back & would refer anyone who asked me about car repair to go to your AAMCO.Memo is also very good over the phones with customers, as I heard him speak to quite a few clients.He is 5 star with clients on the phone or in person!I come from a 4 generation family business, so I appreciate local businesses.Thank you for making me feel secure about car repairs, as I am a single 73 yr old woman & I was concerned about a place overcharging me.I will be back.Patricia HartyService: Transmission

  Annabella Updegrave
a year ago
Hello! I had a great experience, Memmel was extremely helpful and kept us in the loop with everything before he went forward with any changes. To be honest, this is the only shop around here that I've trusted enough to bring my vehicle back multiple times for repairs. The technicians and customer service has done a wonderful job with my Hummer's lift and suspension this week!Services: Transmission, Exhaust, Steering & suspension repair, General repairs & maintenance, Electrical, Auto engine diagnostic, Engine repair, Oil change

  THUNDERCAT
a year ago
I went in for a transmission inspection and your front desk employee Memo was fantastic. Memo was friendly and helpful explaining the process to me and pointed all the 3rd party credit companies that I can qualify for if I need help paying for repairs. All in all I was impressed and look forward to my next visit.Thank you for reaching out for feedback.Service: Transmission

  Bernice Murphy
9 months ago
Great service! Took care of all my cars problems, got it right the first time. No need to go back and forth like other auto mechanic shops. If you want good auto shop, I definitely recommend this one.Services: Transmission, Auto engine diagnostic, Oil changeServices: Transmission, Auto engine diagnostic, Oil change

  Saul Gonzalez
a year ago
Great service here, I had some transmission issues that no other shop would even dare take a look at as I was told I'd be better off buying another car. I was about to go that route but I brought it to AAMCO and they inspected it and let me know what was wrong completely free of charge. They then communicated with me exactly what the issue was and ended up just needing to get a small part replaced all for around $140 total! Really honest and helpful staff!Service: Transmission

  Michelle Iwanski
4 months ago
Memo was easy and fun to talk with. I would recommend this business to anyone who wants an honest quote.

  Emmet Hance
7 months ago
Very pleased, I had ongoing problems with a leaking transmission and coolant. No more leaks the best auto repair shop I've found. Honest and prompt.Services: Transmission, General repairs & maintenanceServices: Transmission, General repairs & maintenance

  BeRNiE
11 months ago
Had my compressor replaced and AC charged in a timely manner at a very reasonable price. Also, great customer service provided by Memo. I recommend getting a quote from this place first.Service: A/C installation & repairService: A/C installation & repair

  Sarah DuCoeur
2 years ago
I called to see about getting my transmission looked at and financing. Joe was extremely helpful and gave me all my options. I made an appointment and they even covered my tow down there as long as I had my work done there. It was very easy and fast. Unfortunately for me, my transmission was shot. Joe was very helpful with explaining everything to me and helped me finance a rebuilt transmission, and it was done in 2 days. I m happy to have my car back and running great.Service: Transmission