West Automotive Group in Oceanside, CA, can assist you with auto repairs and maintenance to keep your car in good condition for optimal performance and longevity. Regular auto repair and maintenance services can help identify potential issues early on, saving you from costly repairs. While several repair shops are in the San Diego area, West Automotive Group in Oceanside, CA, can assist you with auto repairs and maintenance to keep your car in good condition for optimal performance and longevity. Regular auto repair and maintenance services can help identify potential issues early on, saving you from costly repairs. While several repair shops are in the San Diego area, finding one that meets all your needs can be challenging. We offer a range of auto repair services, and that’s why we are a top choice for vehicle owners in the area. Our Oceanside location is one of 5 locations in the greater San Diego area. West Automotive Group offers a comprehensive range of services, including transmission services for all types of vehicles, brake repairs, diagnostics, smog checks, suspension repair, wheel alignment, and maintenance services. We also conduct regular inspections to identify any potential issues and prevent breakdowns. With over 30 years of experience, we have built a reputation for offering top-notch services at competitive rates. ...more
Verified CustomerHi Jett,
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We understand your frustration, and we want to clarify what was done and what we observed throughout your visits.
When your Kia first came in, we confirmed a transmission fluid leak in the transfer case-to-transmission area and found the transmission approximately one quart low. We recommended correcting the fluid level and addressing the leak, noting that continued operation with low fluid could lead to internal transmission damage. At that time, you approved the transmission service but declined the leak repair.
The transmission service was completed on April 1, 2026, strictly following manufacturer procedures, including temperature-specific checks and fluid level verification. These steps are critical and were performed exactly as required.
When you returned about four weeks later with shifting concerns, we rechecked the system. The fluid level was verified as correct using the proper OEM procedure. At that time, we also reset the transmission adaptive values. This process allows the vehicle to relearn shift patterns and can temporarily change how the transmission feels as it readjusts. In cases where there may be internal wear, the system may initially feel different and then adapt over time.
We also want to clarify that during both visits, there were no fault codes stored and no signs of excessive debris in the fluid. The service performed was intended as maintenance and inspection, not a guaranteed repair for shifting concerns, which was communicated at the time.
Regarding the evaluation fee, this was disclosed as part of our diagnostic process. Our policy is to charge for the time and expertise required to properly assess modern transmissions, regardless of whether repairs are ultimately performed. We understand that not all shops operate the same way, but we do make every effort to explain this upfront.
As for your final outcome, we’re glad to hear the vehicle is currently shifting normally. Based on our testing and procedures, we did not identify or perform any additional repairs during the second visit that would have altered the condition beyond the adaptive reset and verification process.
We always aim to be transparent and thorough in both our diagnostics and communication. We regret that your experience did not meet expectations and will use your feedback to continue improving how we explain our processes and policies.
If you’d like to discuss this further, we’re always open to continuing the conversation.
– West Automotive
Hidden Evaluation Fee: I was not informed upfront that the “Certi-Care Transmission Evaluation” fee would not be credited toward the cost of the service I was having performed. In my experience across many shops over two decades, evaluation fees are routinely credited when work is done. This was not disclosed before I approved the service — I only found out at pickup. I’ve since seen other reviewers here report the exact same surprise.
Post-Service Performance Got Worse: After the drain and fill, the car shifted significantly rougher across all gears — worse than when I brought it in. Before the service, the concern was isolated to shifts between 3rd and 4th. This is an objective, verifiable change in vehicle behavior following their work.
Fluid Level Check Procedure: The 2021 Kia Telluride has a specific OEM procedure for verifying transmission fluid level — it requires the fluid to be checked at a precise operating temperature range with the fill plug removed to confirm proper flow. This is not a standard check. When I raised concerns about whether this procedure was followed correctly, the shop said levels were fine, but agreed to re-inspect — only after informing me I would be charged another $160 evaluation fee if “nothing was wrong.” That approach puts the financial risk entirely on the customer when the issue may have been caused by the service itself.
Outcome After Second Visit: After the re-inspection, the car drove completely normally. Smooth shifts across all gears. The issue resolved itself after the second visit — strongly suggesting something was corrected, even if the shop didn’t acknowledge it.
Upsell Concerns: During the inspection they flagged my transmission as needing replacement — offering a $5,000 used option or a $9,000 remanufactured option. The transmission is now shifting smoothly with no intervention beyond their second look.
Service Advisor Response: When I called Josh afterward to express my frustration, he acknowledged my concerns but took no action to make it right.
I don’t write reviews lightly. I’m not disputing that their team is technically capable or that the inspection was thorough. But transparency, communication, and standing behind your work matter — and on all three counts, this experience fell short