Business Details
46 Years
experience
Your Trusted Auto Repair Partner in Solana Beach
At DRIVE AutoCare, we have been exceeding community expectations with trustworthy advice and legendary service since 1980. Our ASE-certified master mechanics utilize factory scanners and digital diagnostics to provide expert repairs for domestic, foreign, and exotic vehicles. With a 2-year/24,000-mile warranty on all repairs, we prioritize customer convenience through complimentary shuttle service, after-hours drop-off, and discounted rental cars. Our team maintains deep expertise in smog inspections, brake systems, wheel alignment, and hybrid vehicle maintenance. We combine cutting-edge technology with personalized service to ensure vehicle safety, longevity, and performance.As North County San Diego's trusted automotive partner, we deliver transparent pricing, timely service, and comprehensive 35-point inspections. Our commitment to quality extends to using premium products for oil changes, air conditioning repairs, and preventative maintenance. We maintain open communication throughout every service process while offering flexible concierge options for vehicle pick-up and return. With over four decades of local experience, we combine technical proficiency with ethical business practices to build lasting customer relationships. Our facility supports both individual vehicle owners and commercial fleet operators with equal dedication to excellence.
Services
Smog Check
Brake Repair
Wheel Alignment
Oil Change
Check Engine Light Diagnostics
Air Conditioning Service
Tune-Ups
Hybrid Vehicle Maintenance
Tire Replacement
Electrical Diagnosis
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- 44 years of automotive repair expertise since 1980
- ASE-certified master mechanics with factory diagnostic tools
- Complimentary digital vehicle inspections with every service
- Free shuttle service and after-hours vehicle drop-off available
- 2-year/24,000-mile warranty on all repair services
Associations and certifications
- ASE-certified
- Star Certified Smog Check Station
What people say
Excellent service
Friendly and knowledgeable
Quick and efficient
Complimentary rental car
Trusted partner
Services
Smog Check
DRIVE AutoCare provides California-compliant smog inspections with STAR-certified technicians. Our state-of-the-art equipment completes tests in 20 minutes or less. We handle all vehicle types including motorhomes, vans, and diesel vehicles. Services include test-only inspections, repair diagnostics, and check engine light analysis. Our 44 years of experience ensures accurate diagnostics and compliance with current emissions standards.
Brake Repair
Our brake specialists diagnose and repair all braking system components using factory tools. Services include pad/rotor replacement, caliper repair, and hydraulic system diagnostics. We address vibrations, squealing, and grinding issues while maintaining proper stopping distance. ASE-certified technicians perform comprehensive inspections to determine necessary repairs with transparent pricing and quality parts.
Wheel Alignment
Computerized alignment services optimize tire performance and vehicle handling. Our technicians adjust caster, camber, and toe angles to manufacturer specifications. Services include 4-wheel alignment, tire rotation, and suspension component inspection. Proper alignment extends tire life, improves fuel efficiency, and enhances driving safety through precise steering control.
Oil Change
Synthetic and conventional oil change services with tire pressure check and oil filter replacement. Every service includes a 35-point digital inspection covering fluid levels, brake wear, and safety components. Our technicians use Valvoline products and follow factory maintenance schedules to preserve engine longevity and performance.
Hybrid Vehicle Maintenance
Specialized service for hybrid vehicles including battery diagnostics, regenerative braking systems, and high-voltage component maintenance. Our certified technicians use factory-level diagnostic tools to service electric drive systems, battery management, and hybrid-specific components while maintaining factory warranties through proper service protocols.
People
Mike Gilmore
President
With over 40 years in automotive service, Mike leads DRIVE AutoCare's commitment to excellence. He oversees operations at the Solana Beach location, ensuring adherence to highest industry standards while maintaining personalized customer service.
Paul Collins
Chief Operating Officer
Paul manages daily operations across DRIVE AutoCare locations. With extensive automotive industry experience, he focuses on optimizing service efficiency and maintaining ASE-certified technician training programs.
Jose Real
Service Manager
As service manager, Jose coordinates repair operations and customer service initiatives. He brings 25+ years of automotive repair expertise to ensure quality control and timely service delivery.
Joseph Tsvirinko
Service Manager
Joseph oversees technical staff and service scheduling. His automotive career spans three decades with specialization in diagnostic systems and complex repair coordination for domestic and foreign vehicles.
Art Beltran
Customer Service
Art serves as primary customer contact, coordinating service appointments and concierge vehicle logistics. With 15 years at DRIVE AutoCare, he ensures seamless communication between clients and technicians.
Questions
What vehicles require smog inspections in California?
Gas-powered vehicles from 1976 or newer need bi-annual smog checks. Vehicles under six years old are exempt if owned by original purchaser.
Do you service hybrid vehicles?
Yes, we have specialized equipment and certified technicians for hybrid vehicle diagnostics, battery systems, and regenerative braking maintenance.
What happens if my check engine light is on during smog test?
The vehicle will automatically fail. Our technicians can diagnose and repair the specific issue causing the check engine light to illuminate.
Do you offer after-hours vehicle drop-off?
Yes, our secure key-drop box allows weekend and after-hours vehicle drop-off with service initiation the next business day.
What warranty do you provide on repairs?
We offer a 2-year/24,000-mile warranty on all repair services, covering both parts and labor at any DRIVE AutoCare location.
Can I schedule service online?
Yes, our website provides online appointment scheduling with real-time availability for all service types including smog checks and maintenance.
Reviews (7)
Carrie Masook
Jun 05, 2022
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My Audi was showing problems with brake pads so I needed to find a decent place urgently. I found them on Google, it was close & got great reviews so thought I would give them a try. They were efficient, took my car in within one day over Memorial Day W.end & v quickly had valet service to take me home as well as a free quote and were quick to update me with estimate and patient in explaining the pricing.
My husband said their price range was fair. Work was fast & also they gave us a small discount which was sweet since we were 1st time customers. So far all is going well a week later so I'm happy to recommend very good report & good things all round! Thank you guys
My husband said their price range was fair. Work was fast & also they gave us a small discount which was sweet since we were 1st time customers. So far all is going well a week later so I'm happy to recommend very good report & good things all round! Thank you guys
Kristopher Craib
May 14, 2022
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The guys at DRIVE AutoCare are top notch. Just dropped my car off after a nail punctured my tire. They patched it really quickly. 100% would recommend any day.
Santosh Vetticaden
Apr 25, 2022
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They are very competent and do a great job. They are now my go to service center for my cars. Initially, while they did a great job on the repair, I had an issue with returning follow-up calls after I picked up the car and so mentioned this an early review. The manager called me immediately and was very apologetic that they had dropped the ball on returning my call since they pride themselves on their work and customer service. The prompt follow-up was impressive, and it was clear that they strive to deliver excellent customer service. I
Glen Massimino
Apr 23, 2022
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I needed an oil change and a tire rotation. I mentioned there was a slow leak in my right rear tire. Troy took the extra time and effort to remove the tire, identify the leak and patch it. Highly recommend!
Patrick O'Halloran
Apr 18, 2022
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Very great service. I initially went in just for a tire rotation and then asked them to check if anything else was wrong in general. They did a thorough check through and they sorted the results to me as urgent, recommended, passed. For each item it gave a recommended frequency to check (even on the passed items). For the recommended and urgent items they gave me a detailed reason why. This is why I'm giving them 5 stars. The transparency makes me feel like I can trust them, instead of just telling me a blanket statement like you need to do X. I'd recommend this place for sure. Awesome customer service.
Kristi Salerno
Feb 26, 2022
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Everyone was so friendly, accommodating and easy to work with here. I got my smog check done here and it took exactly the amount of time they gave (30min)- easy in, easy out! I will certainly be back again!
Eric Scotchandtime
Feb 16, 2022
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Went for a smog inspection and a rattling problem and honestly did it because they were the closest to my home. Saw all these awards for good customer service but you know I see these all the time. This time the awards were deserved. Friendly, professional and still the home town small guy feel. Will come back for all my needs going forward. Just moved to California and I've found my shop.
