UPDATE: Six years later, this car, which Natalie kindly helped me pick out, has never had a problem (well, except when I ran over a nail, but obviously, that's not germane). I always bring it to Oceanworks for maintenance and they do a great job. Oceanworks ROCKS! read more

TL;DR: Used to be a great shop, recent business changes have upgraded the space and downgraded the service. Now they're as bad as the stealership. This isn't the Ocean Works I grew up with and I'll never go back. I've been going to Ocean Works II (they've since combined with Ocean Works) ever since I first learned to drive. They used to be a wonderful shop - encouraged me to do my own routine maintenance, gave me sound advice, and were always very considerate of my poor college student budget. My family has been taking our cars to Ocean Works and Ocean Works II for decades and always liked both shops well. This year, they merged, and the new Ocean Works might look like the old, but they have completely changed. The person running the phones now has no idea who the longtime clients are, or anything about their cars. They try to get you to agree to additional work without determining whether that work is even necessary before they try to sell you on it. Rather than encouraging clients to do their own routine maintenance, they 'volunteer' to do it for you and charge through the nose for every little thing. The final insult was that I wasn't given the bill to review before I was required to pay, so I had no opportunity to dispute over charges. My latest experience completely blind-sided me. I expect this kind of behavior from dealerships, I'm ready for it. But I never expected it from a mechanic I've known and trusted for my entire driving life. Used to be when I called Ocean Works, I got someone on the phone who knew me and my car (and my family's cars). Not anymore. The guy manning the phones now, Johnson, is clueless. But I made an appointment anyway because the check engine light was on. It was a bad wiring harness, which I agreed to have replaced. They also said I needed to replace my drive belt assembly, and it wasn't going to be cheap. But I trusted them, so I agreed. Then, when the work was done, I was told my car needed another $1500-$2000 in work. I asked how severe the issue was and Chris had no idea. My car's nearing 20 years and is over 200K, and it's just not worth it to fix every little thing. The last time I was driving an older, high mileage car, Chris was great about sorting out the 'you need to have this fixed immediately' from 'this doesn't hurt your road safety, so don't worry about it'. This time, I was pressured to agree to additional repairs without any indication of its necessity or immediacy. Felt like I was at the dealership, being pressured to get my car in pristine condition. I don't need my car pristine, I need to know what things to watch for as it ages so that I can drive it safely from A to B. Turns out one of the suggested repairs wasn't necessary, the other wasn't immediate. The final insult was that they charged me $150 for diagnostics, even though I had agreed to over $1000 in repairs. Most shops waive the diagnostic fee when you agree to pay for the work. I would think me being a longtime customer would be worth them seeing that I wasn't overcharged. That extra $150 has cost Ocean Works all my future business. read more

I just called on the phone to ask for some advice and Natalie was super helpful, patient and compassionate. I called on the recommendation of my friend Nikki, and tho they weren't able to help me in the way i wanted, I'll definitely hit them up again! And she took my number if she's able to help me in a different way sooner read more

Friendly and honest. He gave me a list of things that they could fix, and didn't pressure me to fix more than necessary now.

First off this was 5 years ago. I take my 1993 Truck in for a terrible intermittent whining noise. They say it's the alternator. I leave it, pick it up two days later and as I am driving away the whine begins again. I turn around. I leave the truck. This time they say it's the starter. I doubt this, but what do I know? I return, pick it up, and as I'm driving away it begins again. I turn around. They are frustrated. They apparently want some high end Prius or SUV to work on. They say they don't know what it is. I reply, well, I've just dropped $800.00 for repairs I didn't need and the owner gets snarky and replies, well do you want us to put the old parts back? One can imagine how I felt. So, the whine stopped on the drive home. The following day I'm leaving Berkeley Community College and the whine begins again. It is SOOOO loud everyone on the street is looking at me wondering WTH? I'm frustrated and figure I am close to the Toyota dealer/repair shop, what the heck. I NEVER go to a dealer to have my truck worked on but I was desperate. They hear it, all the mechanics come over to check out the engine. I tell them about my experience at Oceanworks. They are flummoxed. The whine stops.They suggest I leave it overnight and they will run it until the whine begins again. They call the next day and tell me it's the water pump. They replace it. I haven't had a problem since. So you may be thinking, 5 years? Let it go. I have, and have a great mechanic now, but one doesn't forget businesses that #@!*& you. Caveat emptor. read more

I had Oceanworks do work on my car years ago when I lived in Berkeley and had a Honda (I'm a Subaru-in-Oakland guy these days), and it was all done well, competently, and reasonably. I just now had to get more information about smogging an out-of-state Honda, and Oceanworks picked up the phone and gave good, reasonable, free advice, which possibly might allow me to avoid doing some work or testing done on the car (edit: it passed smog! the shop that smogged it wanted to do some more tests; Oceanworks said to just drive it around for a week and try again, which worked). The least I could do is give some yelpy stars in return. Oceanworks will always be on my list of Bay Area Honda fixers when I need one. read more

I never ever write reviews but the service I got at Oceanworks was so great, I had to give them 5 stars. Billy went above and beyond to make sure we were taken care of and was always acting in our best interest. My family has been going to Oceanworks for years and that isn't going to change anytime soon. They are the absolute best! read more

Honestly reviewed a car I had for sale. Unlike the other buyers mechanic who came up with a whole list of bulls**t problems these folks clearly knew what they were doing: honest suggestions and great prices to fix what was wrong. Five stars easy. read more

I have been taking my cars to Oceanworks for years both Natalie and Angus have always been extremely helpful. The service has been superb.

Oceanworks is a wonderful and reliable mechanic shop. I've been coming here for years and will only change mechanics if I move away. They are efficient, price is reasonable, and and they communicate well by text or phone call. I highly recommend them. read more

If your looking for a mechanic in the East Bast bay, this is your place. I know nothing about cars, especially the driving part :), so I need an honest mechanic and these guys are it. I had a automatic window problem and they found a way to fix it without having to charge me for a new motor--I could have easily been sold on a few parts for this and my bill was like 5 dollars. I almost felt like I should break something on my car so they could fix it, I was that impressed. read more

I guess I'm part of a trend here: long time loyal customer who will never frequent this shop again. Have been using Oceanworks for more than 20 years, but the last "almost" repair was enough for me. My problem was misdiagnosed twice (one time over the phone without looking at the car), I had to prepay for a part that wasn't needed, when the repair was made the problem remained unsolved and they said I would have to return the car and basically pay a second time for the same labor. The worst was the utter lack of empathy or concern for a long time customer. My dissatisfaction was greeted with immediate defensiveness ("We can't control that" "That's not our fault") and absolutely no effort to make it right. Never again. read more

We moved from Berkeley to Mountain View, and when my car failed smog, I set about finding a new mechanic. After going to two different places, I gave up and drove back to Oceanworks. They specialize in Toyota and Honda repair, and my Honda had been taken there by the previous owner, so everything was on record. I was at 220,000 miles. Though some idiot in Mountain View told me I needed a new catalytic converter, Angus of Oceanworks found the faulty part (a small, cheap, plastic part that had recently been replaced), adjusted the idle speed, and had my car purring. No problems when I retested for smog. The rates are great. read more

They sell Xootr scooters here, but they won't help you repair the scooer if it's gets beat up riding the Berkeley roads. A better buy is Razor A5 Lux(Amazon.com) and water resistant grease(any hardware store). It's a $100 better buy. I still have a Xootr, but they didn't feel like fixing it. the broken part is the steering column, and its been waiting to give out like cheap aluminum foil. read more

Angus and the gang at Oceanworks are the best. They started servicing my Tacoma 4x4 at 90k and now I have reached 250k. Angus by the far the most honest and technically inclined mechanic I have met, and his staff is top notch. They are definitely cheaper than stealerships and provide much better service. I live in San Francisco and it is worth it for me to get my car serviced at Oceanworks in Berkeley. read more

Ocean Works was referred to me as a team of high professionals. I never had problems with my car as I hardly drive and the car has low mileage (besides just being reliable) but I wanted real experts to take care of my car and perform regular maintenance. I was not a frequent customer at Ocean Works but I trusted them and paid extra for the expertise. Here is what made me loose all confidence in Ocean Works. I brought my car in because the "Maintenance light" would not go off and asked to reset the light. Two hours later I picked up my car and was told that the oil was changed and the light was reset. It would turn back on after approximately 4000 miles of driving." I left the shop, got into my car, turned on the engine and the "Maintenance Required" light was ON. I came back into the office and asked about it. The answer was: "Oh, we forgot to mention that your light is defective and does not respond to the reset test." Then it was followed by a tirade of technical terms and explanations of how hard the computer diagnostics is; how this problem with the light is particularly rare, how it would need an extensive research as it is not trivial to find the reason for this failure etc etc etc ... I scheduled another appointment with Ocean Works but since I already lost half of the day at the repair shop I drove by Honda dealership on 1500 San Pablo (just couple of blocks away). I explained at Honda Dealership that apparently I have a very rare failure of the system and an experienced professional does not know how to fix it and I really worry that the computer system in my car is malfunctioning. The technician turned on the engine, pushed down the black button next to the Maintenance icon, held it for 3 seconds and the light turned itself off. That was it.!!!!!!! I called Oceanworks to cancel my appointment and had a conversation with the owner which showed that the company is not only lacking technical expertise but also courtesy in admitting their mistakes and apologizing for them. It is a big disappointment since on the surface everything looks and seems so good about Oceanworks. I will not be going back there and would not advise anyone to use their services especially if you do not know much about cars. read more

Oceanworks is the best. After moving to SF, I tried to "fire" them and get an in-town mechanic. I checked out a few places and they all sucked, so back to Berkeley my Honda goes for TLC. Same thing happened to a friend of mine who moved down the Penin...her car still commutes for care to Oceanworks. read more

Oceanworks is amazing. Our 96 Corolla wouldn't start. We coaxed it into starting again, but it finally died. In Hayward. We actually persuaded our insurance company (21st Century) to tow it to Berkeley with no extra cost to us. Why not just take it to Hayward Toyota? Well, why not just take it straight to hell? Yep, the dealership is so shady-- $120 just to be seen, before any diagnosis is made. Service sucks there. But why Oceanworks? A friend who also had Corolla starter problems took her car to Oceanworks and fortunately had just told me about it. I called them and talked to a very knowledgeable woman who asked a few questions (clicks when you turn the key? one click or two? etc.) and said, "If it is the starter, we'll just replace the worn copper parts inside. Likely won't be more than $180." That was Friday. We picked it up Monday and paid $170 -- $10 for parts, $160 for labor. She had an example of the part up at the counter, and showed us how by replacing just the little copper parts inside the starter, they saved money and reduced waste. And they even recycled the old copper. Our car has more than 120K miles on it, and she talked like they could keep the thing running for another 120K. She made me feel proud to have an old car! Because it may be old, but thanks to Oceanworks, it runs beautifully. To top it off, she encouraged us to pick some fresh blackberries from the wild bushes in their parking lot. Seriously! What kind of car repair nirvana is this? And those berries were so good. Probably like $6 worth of blackberries right there. I'm never taking my car elsewhere. read more

What I want in a car repair shop I get from Oceanworks - Able to explain repairs without making me feel stupid - Always friendly - Will tell you what "Must" be done vs. what "could" be done - Not afraid to tell the truth ("ooooh, don't waste your money fixing THIS") - Deliver on time. I can't speak to the prices for things, because I'm not a car expert, but I feel like I'm being treated fairly and respectfully. The staff is funny, professional, and down-to-earth. 5 stars all the way. read more

Never again! Over $1000 in repairs and my car is not fixed. They made me prepay for parts as they assured me they knew what the problem was based on previous notes and not actually seeing the car. My car is running and acting up exactly the same as it was before they touched it, plus they broke mounts on my radiator and fan shroud. Never offered me a refund or to fix it for free after. Very difficult to get an appointment as they are so booked up and hours are not convenient for those who work. read more

They fit me in at the last minute for a pre-purchase inspection *****. They stopped the inspection about 1/2 way through after finding evidence of accident damage and body work *****, and only charged me $60 *****. I will be going back again *****! How many total stars is that? read more

It's not easy to find honest, reliable, caring mechanics. You can be sure you've found them at Oceanworks. Angus, Natalie and all the people that work there are 5-star all the way. I have had almost all the work on my 1991 Toyota Celica done here since its dealer warranty ended. I consider them "my mechanics" and have had them regularly maintain my car. Even if Angus--perhaps acting like a curmudgeonly dental hygienist--scolds me for not being diligent enough, he always has my back. Like when I last showed up without an appointment because my brake lights weren't working, he fixed them that same day so I wouldn't be driving around in an unsafe condition. I can't thank Angus enough for that. And I appreciate Natalie for her courteous, friendly service and patient technical explanations (and for being more forgiving!) As an artist always concerned with my budget, I can count on them to come up with an affordable solution to what needs to be done. I trust them to unfailingly recommend fixing only what is necessary. This car's about to hit 200,000 miles and when I get a new one, I will bring that to them to be looked after as well. read more

They treat me right. Totally trustworthy, try to get you in and out as quick as possible, honest decent prices. Not much more I could ask for. I've gone there for several oil changes on my Toyota Corolla, as well as a 15k service a couple times, and once had the brakes resurfaced. That last one cost a bit, but I'm totally happy with the result, and he warned me at the previous oil change that it might need to be done coming up at the next oil change, so I was prepared. Usually they can get me in and out in 3 or 4 hours time. Usually can fit me in their appointment book within a week and a half to two weeks. The only complaint is that sometimes Angus can be overly chatty with customers ahead of me while I'm waiting to pick up my car and pay my bill and that can be more of a delay than the actual service. read more

Oceanworks has been our mechanic of choice for over 8 years. Angus and Natalie are highly ethical and their team has superior knowledge over any other Japanese auto mechanic I have encountered. They have never recommended work that is unnecessary and they always tell the factual circumstances. Their rates are competitive and fair. I have never had any quality isues with their work. If they make a mistake, they admit it, and fix it, although this has been extremey rare over the many years of fantastic service. Both of my vehicles have about 150K of milage, and thanks to routine maintenance and Oceanwork's quality work and advise, I hope to exceed over 200K before investing in another Japanese car! read more

Angus and Natalie are the best. I've been with them for years and trust them wholeheartedly. I admit, I strayed a couple times because a local shop was recommended to me. Well this local shop couldn't fix some issues and I came back and have stayed w/ Oceanworks. I am a satisfied customer and recommend them to everyone that I know. read more

After moving to the Berkeley area, I needed to find a local mechanic that I could trust. A friend recommended Oceanworks, and I'm grateful she did. Natalie and Angus are great. Both times I have had to use their services, they took the time to explain what needed to be done and made sure that I was comfortable going forward. As a woman without much car expertise, I often feel that I am at a disadvantage when dealing with repair shops. Oceanworks puts me ease. read more

Yelp needs an extra 5 stars for Oceanworks. We've taken all of our cars exclusively to Oceanworks for over 20 years. Angus & Natalie are the absolute best and Oceanworks is THE best small business I know of on top of being the best place to take your Japanese car for absolutely anything. Their knowledge of Japanese cars is deep beyond belief, plus they're friendly, patient, clear, thorough, more helpful & less expensive than you'd expect or hope for even after going to them for years. We love Oceanworks and you will too. read more

Oceanworks is the only shop I'll take my car to. I've probably been going there 10 years at this point. Angus and Natalie are about the greatest people you could ever meet. They're funny, competent and thorough and have enough perspective on things to smooth out what can be a pretty bumpy experience (car repair in general). They do great work at a good price. They won't try to sell you service you don't need, and they'll tell you when you need to take care of something now or when it can wait a while and what to keep an eye on so you know when you actually do need to take care of it. They do my oil changes and routine stuff (I don't drive a lot, so twice a year or so?) and major service like tune-ups, timing belts, water pumps, alignments, etc. They always have the work done when they say they will, they're pretty flexible about when I can bring in my car (esp. if I can leave it for a bit) and they're super convenient to pretty much anywhere in the East Bay. Just can't say enough good things about them. I just hope Angus never plans on retiring. I'll never find a mechanic as good! read more

I bring all my cars and trucks here and recommend them frequently. One of my customers initially recommended them to me. Cars cost money to maintain so if you don't want to spend any money go buy auto care for dummies or whatever. read more

Oceanworks is due a 5-star review, but it's the same feeling I always have when recommending a favorite spot--you don't want everyone to find out about it and then there's no space on the schedule for you! We and our extended family have been taking our Hondas and Toyotas to Oceanworks for many years. Angus and his team always deliver. They fix the problem fast and you have confidence in the work. Also they are upfront about costs and especially honest about whether you actually need to get something done. Recently we had our Prius in for an oil change and the mechanic dented our hood. Angus disclosed the damage immediately and fully covered the cost of the repair at a top body shop including a rental loaner in the interim. An even greater sign of Angus's integrity is that he doesn't want you to drive a car at all-- he'll try to sell you one of the bikes that he keeps stocked onsite. (That's where I bought my Xootr Swift, a folding bike I've had for 7+ years.) He'll give you advice on your bike for free. Five stars for competence, value, and customer service. read more

Angus and all of the folks here are amazing. I recently bought my first car but before I dished out all of my moola for a car I found on craigslist I took it to Oceanworks to get it checked out. They went over every inch of the car and walked me through every ding and dent. I have never owned a car before and I have only driven a handful of times since I got my license 8 years ago, so I'm sure my questions were quite remedial but they answered all of them and then some. They were friendly and helpful. I would definitely go back there again with my new car! read more

i trust my '07 Honda Element to Oceanworks. I trust their advice and never feel as though I need to worry about being taken advantage of. Angus and Natalie are friendly, knowledgeable, and fair. I look forward to many years of service here. read more

WONDERFUL AUTO WORK. My brake switch needed to be replaced and they got me in and out in just about an hour, even though they didn't have the part when I came in. The service is excellent and what they billed me actually ended up being less than they had initially quoted. I paid half of what i would've had to pay at the dealer. I definitely recommend this place. read more

They let me order my own part and have it delivered to them ( a reconditioned Shaft) They were also very helpful over email and the phone. They didn't charge over the bid although the time on project went over. read more

I came in for routine work (new brake pads) on my 2002 Honda Civic, but they had to replace my calipers - an operation they do rarely (because they don't often get cars that sit in the snow like mine did in a previous life). They helped me understand the problem, and provided excellent time/cost estimates and service. I'll be back! I'm glad to have this shop in Berkeley. read more

Thanks to Natalie and Angus, I will be driving my Prius for at least another decade. Hands down the best mechanics in the world!

Got my brakes/rotors done here for the first time. They were really nice and explained to me how the rotors were worn on my car and were able to accommodate me the day I called, I came in right away. I've had negative experiences before with mechanics on the East Coast, so I'm very happy my boyfriend recommended that I get my car serviced here. I'll definitely be back! :) read more

They spent a lot of time and love on our 97 ford diesel truck. AND, didn't charge us for all their hours. And, so far, the truck still runs. Thank you Chris!!! Adam read more

Angus and Natalie were very friendly and helpful. I called ahead for a drop-in and I dropped it off at 1030 and had it back by 3. It's definitely not the cheapest place but the service was great. Time will tell if all the problems were fixed. What stood out was how Angus talked to me for at least 20 minutes on the phone and in person to show me the problem, and how to avoid it in the future. read more

Hands down the single best place to get your car worked on in the Bay Area...competent, professional, high-integrity and just plain nice, Angus and Natalie will never steer you wrong and you will feel like you're talking to family members rather than businesspeople out to get what they can from the unavoidable repairs and regular attention required to keep a car on the road. They also sell incomparable bikes imported from Europe...how many mechanics do you know who'll help you ditch your car when they're done working on it? It's well known that mechanics you trust are an important component of a happy life...when you commit to Oceanworks you can check that box 'done'. read more