Best Oil Service/Repair: Poway Transmissions

For more than 30 years, has ensured our cars run smoothly.

And since 2000, it has been owned by Karen and Eldon Dunn. Although they’ve owned the business for a third of the time it has existed, their history in auto repair is deep.

“Eldon’s grandfather owned a repair garage in Missouri, so Eldon has been working on cars since he could walk,” said wife Karen. “He specialized in transmissions and became a troubleshooter for a nationwide chain. After traveling around the country he decided if an opportunity opened up in San Diego he would take it.”

Despite its success, Karen said it has been a challenge to operate during a recession.

“It’s a tough time to be in business. Things are very tight, people are hurting and they need their vehicle to survive. So you have to give them options that will fit their budget,” she said. “We give them more information than they ever wanted to know about transmissions, from our website to our brochures to over the phone, we give them their choices. We have always checked out cars for free, which is hard for people to believe sometimes. The free check out allows us to tell our customers exactly what is happening to the vehicle, how long it will take to repair it and how much it’s going to cost.”

The longtime business owner also offered tips for others looking to get into the industry: 

• You need to have a passion for what you do. 
• Find employees that want to grow and learn.
• Understand customer service and work as a team. 
• Set high standards.
• Join organizations that will help you with education, awareness and networking.
• You are only as good as your word—so make it count.