DMC Automotive Repair

Got an engine check light on my 2016 Ford Edge Titanium with a 4-cylinder Eco-boost 2.0 engine and only 100,600 miles. Had no idea the issue but figured it was something minor. How bad could it be? Took it to my mechanic who diagnosed it quickly while I waited and said coolant leaked into cylinder 1, cracked the block, that the engine must be replaced and that it will cost $10k!  I was shocked. I kept it garaged, well-maintained and changed the oil at recommended intervals using only premium synthetic oil. My mechanic doesn’t replace engines so I needed a second opinion. I initially thought it was a transmission check light and was hoping my mechanic was wrong somehow. Maybe a little transmission fluid will do the trick? After all, denial is underrated! So I searched local transmission shop reviews and came across DMC Auto Transmissions in Ventura with hundreds of 5-star ratings. I reached out and Lori responded, warm and welcoming and got me in quickly. They checked it out but I was not so lucky. I didn’t convey what my mechanic had found but they too found the same issue and sent me evidence forming the same conclusion as my mechanic. They said the high heat produced by the turbo warped the aluminum block and head surfaces causing coolant to leak into cylinder 1 just as my mechanic stated. So my choices were do nothing and sell the SUV "as is" for a significant loss and buy another car (replacement SUV’s run $40-50k), replace the ruined engine with similar OED engine with same issue for $8k and hope it lasts, or pay $10k for Ford's redesigned engine capable of handling high turbo heat that comes with a 3-year unlimited mile warranty- engine replacement is covered, labor is not.

I decided the latter was the best option. As it turns out I was lucky after all because DMC Auto Transmissions also performed engine replacements and I had confidence going in with them from the start. So I put down the deposit and Lori and team got to work placing the order for the new engine. At this point I had already received great communications from DMC via text and they were very responsive to calls as well. David shuttled me home. Within a few days DMC Auto Transmissions informed me that the engine is on it’s way and scheduled me in at 8a the following Monday. I dropped off the vehicle on time and was informed if all goes well I’d have my SUV back with the new engine by Thursday or Friday of that week. It was ready late Thursday afternoon so I arranged to pick it up on Friday morning, which I did. It drove like a dream with only one issue which they quickly fixed- a clip holding a vacuum tube to the intake manifold came loose causing an air leak and had to be replaced. Nancy facilitated the process and Luis the master tech resolved the issue and they delivered my car to my house afterwards. All were friendly and professional and by this point I absolutely knew I will be taking my vehicles to DMV Auto Transmissions in the future and I recommend you do too! And yes, writing to Ford Corporate and keeping receipts in hope I will be reimbursed for at least some of the cost. Fred Vela

Nov 21, 2024 · Goodasany1

One of the best automotive repair experiences I have had. From check in to check out I was told exactly when and what needed to be done. Nothing was completed without my approval. Everything I asked to be done or what they recommended was completed. And it was done promptly. I highly recommend DMC for all your automotive repairs. This is a 2012 Ford Edge with 118,000 miles and now runs like new.

Jan 31, 2025 · Stan Slaton

I recently took my car to DMC Automotive Repair, and I couldn't be happier with the service I received! From start to finish, the team was professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely cared about making sure my car was fixed correctly. They were quick to diagnose the issue and explained everything in detail before starting the work. I felt confident knowing that my vehicle was in good hands. They worked efficiently and kept me updated throughout the process, which really put my mind at ease. When I got my car back, it was running like new! The attention to detail and quality of the repair was top-notch. On top of that, the pricing was fair and transparent—no hidden fees or surprises. If you're looking for a reliable, honest, skilled, and friendly auto repair shop, I highly recommend DMC Automotive Repair. They exceeded my expectations, and I will definitely be returning for any future car maintenance needs. Honestly, they deserve more than 5 stars. Thank you, DMC, for a job well done!

Oct 21, 2024 · Bachir Bekkaye

The timing belt failed on my 2013 Ford Focus, and I was having a tough time getting a response from other local shops. Those who did respond gave a wide range of prices and some seemed puzzled by what this specific model needed. The DMC front office folks were very friendly and quick to respond with a fair price. They even put me on the phone with the mechanic doing the repairs who was very informative and patient. My repairs were done quickly and DMC is backing them up with a warranty. What more can you ask for? Its nice to find a trustworthy mechanic.

Dec 24, 2024 · Steve Kennedy

Called DMC because a friend has been getting work done here for some time now and I had a bit of an emergency which is never fun. I called and spoke to Lori (hopefully I spelled that correctly) and she was lovely. She was able to get me an appointment for later that day. The staff seem honest and knowledgeable. After the initial check of my car they shared with me the results via text link to the full report of all perceived issues with the car followed by a text and phone call. They didn’t pressure me to get all of the work done and when I asked what was in need of “immediate” attention they gave me their recommendations and also timeframes for other maintenance issues. I’m really pleased with the service overall. My car has not exhibited any issues since I got the immediate issues taken care of. I will be back and I would recommend them to others. Thank you!

Jan 24, 2025 · Makaela Garcia