Carmel Valley Shell

I really wanted to like this place especially since they were able to squeeze me in last minute for a smog a few months ago. But that was a few months ago… so as those months passed and I patiently waited for my registration sticker I got nothing in the mail. Well 2 tickets later for not having an up to date registration sticker, I finally went to the dmv to figure out why they haven’t sent it to me yet. And guess what… my smog certificate was never sent in even though it clearly stated that they would send it. So yay, thanks for that. I think that in itself explain my 1 star review.

I took my car here for a heating/​cooling issue and Bentley figured out the problem on the spot. He’s a great mechanic and is always willing to go the extra mile for his customers. If you have an issue with your vehicle, don’t hesitate to call Carmel Valley Shell. They provide excellent customer service and charge cheaper rates than car dealerships. Overall, I was very pleased with my experience and would recommend this establishment to anyone that needs their car serviced.

Arghh! I hate having to go do a smog but I got the dreaded dmv letter requiring it. But the good thing it that these guys are around and made it super easy. I called and made an appointment and got it within two hours. I showed up and in 20 minutes I was on my way with no games no up sells just a lightning fast smog certificate (they even gave me the AAA discount). Thank you John. I will definitely be back next time.

I was late in getting my car smog checked so I started calling around to see which places could get me in before the DMV deadline. This station was able to get me a same day appointment (on a Friday). They had me in & out in 15 minutes! The last time I smogged a car took an hour?! It cost $ 57 which seemed in line with other places I called.
On a side note, the couple that run the service area are very sweet. It feels more like a Mom & Pop garage than a corporate Shell station.

Regarding the auto section: The woman who sets up appointments had been very rude and not at all helpful. They said they fixed my car then I went to start out the next day and same exact issue, brought it back to them and they didn’t touch my car for hours with no updates so last minute I had to get car rental. And they are expensive. Do NOT use them.

Service section: Super friendly, very helpful! Scheduled a smog check and was in and out in no time, plus easy access at the stoplight.

This shell is always crowded, but because there are so many pumps I always know to come here. You aren’t solicited by people at the gas station and it’s easy as pull up and drive away. Everyone sticks to themselves and you don’t get hassled

Tish very friendly lady. Quick service for my smog check. appointment essential, no waiting maybe it’s Monday morning. Bit costly smog check than the Bay Area Overall excellent experience

This review is specifically for the service section — Tish is the best and the service is always exactly what is needed, nothing more, no add ons, and reasonable prices. I’ve brought two different cars in needing new water pumps and they were both done within 4 hours. Oil changes, smog checks, basic fluid top offs — all done quickly. Seriously this is my go to mechanic and has been for close to 9 years now. And the person who recommended it to me has been going there since the early 90s.

Very easy location. They have their own traffic light. Friendly employees. Coffee is great, and no little creamer packets to open! Seriously no powdered creamer non sense here. They sell gasoline by the gallon (I try to point out the obvious to see if you are paying attention). Snacks galore can be found in the store (look I am a poet now).

Right off the freeway so it’s definitely a perfect location for someone who is traveling and just want to get gas and continue

Always come to this Shell because it’s right off the freeway and on the same exit I take for work.
I passed by a Chevron in Mission Valley on my way to LA and regular gas was $ 3.99!!! Came to this Shell and gas was only $ 3.59. What a price difference. It’s a nice location, well kept, and clean.

A rare find! Tish and her staff seem to always go the extra and are as fair and honest as it comes.

Very helpful and accommodating, we were new to California and they helped us with our smog check and even did a little service for free. Nice gas station to have close by!

Why the heck am I writing a review of a gas station? Because I’m super picky and when I go to get gas I do not want to be bombarded by ads they play loudly on screens above the pumps. I just want to get my gas in peace and quiet and go along my way. Well, this station does NOT use those annoying ads so in my book tube earned five stars!

300^th review and it is appropriate that it should be some random gas station.
It is a really a nice gas station though. It is clean and has enough space so you don’t feel like your taking your life into your hands to fuel up your car. I like the credit card system here because the print is easy to see and the buttons are easy to use. My receipt printed like it was supposed to, which is a plus for me because I hate going in to get it.
On the receipt I saw there was a survey and one could win free fuel for oneself and 5 friends. I sat back and imagined the power of picking out 5 friends to win such a great prize. I could run a contest of my own! When I went to the website it wasn’t running. Lies! That is not this Shells fault I just wanted to share my broken dreams with you.

I read reviews for the automotive service section of the SHELL … I was prepared to leave my truck to get diagnosed for a loud groan and winding noise (really loud and scary). I was in and out in less than 10 mins!!! This is an old school automotive service where you leave with relief and a smile!!! A place to trust!

I am taking my RV out on a road trip so I stopped by to make sure all the fluids, tires, belts, etc. were in check. I have not seen such good customer service in a very long time. The lady that owns it didn’t want to charge me for just doing an inspection, instead she suggested I give her technician a good tip for his work.
I would highly recommend you bring your car here and will definitely return.

Called up at 3:50pm asking about getting my car smogged and was told theyhad a 4pm slot open. I go there by 4:05 pm and the car was smogged, finished and handed back within about 15 minutes — amazing!
Added to the above, the tech (John I think…) was friendly and pleasant — hard to find at any service station.
I would highly recommend for their speedy service and great attitude.

Carmel Valley Shell is hands down the best auto repair center in San Diego.
For the past four days my car’s check engine light has intermittently flashed on and off, so this morning before work I decided to take my car to Carmel Valley Shell to investigate the issue (read: get rid of the car gremlins). In the past I’ve taken my car to Carmel Valley Shell whenever it was in need of a smog check. This was the first time I took my car to Shell for reasons other than a smog check.
The mechanic performed a through (and free) diagnostic test on my car. Afterwards he informed me that the light came on due to a knock sensor failure. The mechanic then reset the light and told me to return to the shop should the light come back on.
Honest. Professional. Reliable. Superior Service.
Note: Do not confuse the awesome Carmel Valley Shell Station with the not-​so-​awesome Shell Station located on Valley Centre Drive.