Engine & Transmission Repair in Oxnard, CA
Oil leaks, overheating, a rough-running engine or a transmission that slips and shifts hard — our ASE-certified technicians diagnose the cause first, then explain your repair options in plain English before any work begins.
Mon–Fri 8am–5pm · Sat 9am–1pm · 2681 Ventura Blvd, Oxnard · Loaners & shuttle available
Engine and transmission problems, diagnosed before they get worse
Your engine and transmission are the most expensive parts of your vehicle, and small problems rarely stay small. A minor oil leak can soak a rear main seal or ruin an engine mount. A coolant leak can turn into overheating and a blown head gasket. A transmission that starts to slip usually gets worse the longer it's driven. Summer heat on the Oxnard Plain and stop-and-go traffic are especially hard on cooling systems and transmission fluid. Catching problems early is almost always cheaper.
We start with an accurate diagnosis: scan-tool data, pressure and leak testing, compression or leak-down tests on engines, and transmission adaptation and fault data where the vehicle supports it. European engines have well-known weak points — valve cover and oil filter housing gaskets on BMWs, oil leaks and timing components on Mercedes-Benz, cooling system parts on many models — and we know where to look. We work on gas and diesel engines, cars, pickups, vans and motorhomes.
Then we lay out your options honestly — repair, replace a component, or in some cases whether the vehicle is worth fixing at all. Many drivability issues start with a check engine light diagnosis, and regular oil and transmission fluid service is the best way to avoid major repairs. Work trucks and vans can also be handled through our fleet program. If the car needs to stay a few days, ask about a loaner or our local shuttle.
Engine & transmission services
From a leaking gasket to a transmission that won't shift, we diagnose the whole drivetrain and fix what's actually wrong.
Engine Diagnostics
Misfires, low power, knocking, smoke and check engine codes traced with scan data, compression and leak-down testing.
Oil & Coolant Leaks
Valve cover, oil pan, oil filter housing, rear main and timing cover gaskets and seals, plus water pumps and hoses.
Overheating & Cooling
Radiators, thermostats, water pumps, expansion tanks and head gasket testing before a hot day turns into engine damage.
Timing Chains & Belts
Timing belt replacement on schedule and timing chain, guide and tensioner repair when you hear rattle on startup.
Transmission Repair
Slipping, harsh or delayed shifts, shudder and transmission warning lights on automatic, CVT and dual-clutch transmissions.
Transmission & Driveline Service
Fluid and filter service, clutch replacement, differentials, transfer cases, CV axles, driveshafts and mounts.
Signs of engine or transmission trouble
- Check engine light, misfires or rough running
- Oil spots under the car or burning-oil smell
- Temperature gauge rising or coolant loss
- Rattle on startup or knocking under load
- Transmission slips, flares or shifts hard
- Shudder, delayed engagement or limp mode
Why Oxnard trusts us with major repairs
- Diagnosis before parts We confirm the cause first, so you don't pay for a transmission when the problem was a sensor.
- Honest options We explain repair versus replacement and tell you straight if a repair isn't worth it.
- European know-how Decades on Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Porsche and Volvo engines and transmissions, plus a deep parts inventory.
- Since 1972 Family-owned on Ventura Blvd, with ASE-certified technicians and repairs backed by warranty.
Based on online reviews from Ventura County drivers — many with us for decades.
“After trying several other shops, I relaxed when I found Dieter's. Now I have a Mercedes, I'm heading back.”
“Been coming to Dieter's for over 15 years and they are the best — always straight shooters who go above and beyond with exemplary service.”
“Always a pleasure seeing Lothar and Linda. They only do what is needed and don't rob your pocketbook!”
How much does engine repair cost in Oxnard?
It ranges widely. Replacing a leaking valve cover gasket or thermostat is a modest repair, while a head gasket, timing chain or internal engine repair is a major job. The vehicle, engine layout and parts all affect the price. We diagnose first and give you a written estimate before any work starts, with free estimates on most cars. Call (805) 485-1575.
What are the signs my transmission is going bad?
Common signs include slipping or engine revs flaring between gears, harsh or delayed shifts, a shudder at low speed, a delay when shifting into drive or reverse, a burning smell, red fluid leaking under the car, or a transmission warning light or limp mode. Some of these are caused by low fluid, software or a faulty sensor, so diagnosis comes first.
Should I repair or replace my transmission?
It depends on what failed. Sensors, solenoids, valve bodies, wiring and fluid problems can often be repaired without replacing the whole unit. Internal mechanical damage usually means a rebuilt or replacement transmission. We explain the options, costs and trade-offs for your vehicle, including whether the repair makes sense for its age and value.
Is it safe to drive with my car overheating?
No. If the temperature gauge is climbing into the red or you see a coolant warning, pull over safely and shut the engine off. Driving an overheating engine can warp the cylinder head, blow the head gasket and cause damage that costs far more than the original leak. Let it cool, and call us to arrange getting it to the shop.
Do you change transmission fluid on cars that say it's lifetime fluid?
Many manufacturers call transmission fluid lifetime, but heat, towing and stop-and-go driving break it down. On many vehicles, changing the fluid and filter at regular intervals helps protect the transmission. We use the correct fluid specification for your transmission and follow the proper fill and level-check procedure, which is critical on European cars.
Do you repair diesel engines and work truck transmissions?
Yes. We repair gas and diesel engines and transmissions in pickups, work trucks, vans including Mercedes Sprinter and Metris, box trucks and motorhomes. Fleet accounts get a reduced labor rate and priority scheduling. Call (805) 485-1575 and ask for Joel about fleet pricing.
Visit Dieter's Motors in Oxnard
Dieter's Motors2681 Ventura BlvdOxnard, CA 93036
Phone: (805) 485-1575
Free estimates on most cars.
Local shuttle service and loaner vehicles available while your car is in the shop. Serving Oxnard, Camarillo, Ventura, Port Hueneme, El Rio, Saticoy and all of Ventura County.
- Monday8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- SundayClosed