Oceanworks Berkeley

Ben Petrofsky

a month ago · ★ 2

Oceanworks traced an oil leak in my 2013 Toyota Corolla to the timing-cover area and presented resealing it as the solution: about $2,700, or roughly $3,500–$4,000 if the timing chain and tensioners were replaced at the same time. Only after I asked how serious the leak was and whether they would drive the car themselves was I told that it was “not super bad,” the car was safe to drive, and I could monitor the oil and return if the leak became much worse. I then took the car to an experienced independent mechanic for a second opinion. After inspecting it, he said the leak was extremely minor and recommended monitoring it rather than repairing it. He estimated that the soonest it might need attention would be about five years and that it might never require repair. That matches what I observe at home: there is no oil on the ground where I park every day. I appreciated Oceanworks’ diagnostic work and do not dispute where they located the leak. My concern is how the recommendation was presented. I was given a multi-thousand-dollar repair as the solution before the leak’s limited severity and the option of monitoring it were explained. I left believing I might eventually need work that, according to the independent mechanic, may never be necessary.

Lowell Harrison

5 months ago · ★ 5

I've brought two of my cars here over the years. Last year, my SUV needed timing belt, coolant hoses, alternator, leaking oil seal - all at once. The techs walked me through each item and explained to me why each was important for the basic drivability of the car. One year later, I've been driving the car a couple days per week and it's still running as well as the day it left Ocean Works. They treated me great and the service was professional. Thanks Ocean Works!

Bryce Hathaway

6 months ago · ★ 2

I've been a customer for 16 years, but after the change in ownership and management it just isn't the same place anymore. The current management are inexperienced and need to fully consult vehicle histories before recommending work. It's probably still a great place for small jobs and normal maintenance.

Kate Smith

7 months ago · ★ 5

This is a fabulous garage! I have been going here for about 10 yrs and the service is always top notch! It's easy to get an appointment and they do very high quality work for a reasonable cost. And ...they are dog lovers!! Highly recommend.

Taylor Smith

4 months ago · ★ 5

Really impressed. needed brake booster replaced, they got it done in a single day and at a price no one can complain about. really happy a good shop like this exists. Shelby is awesome.