My power steering is nearly dead, the motor's making some really nasty noises, I've got to take it in soon. Preferably within the next week and would prefer not to take it to the dealer, b/c they're probably going to bend me over with no vaseline for it. Any suggestions / good experiences with anyone down south?

 

The feedback isn't very current, but in the winter 1968, while I was at sea in the USN, I left my 1962 Mini at Tolley's Foreign Car Service. While in VA, I had replaced the original 850 cc engine with a 1098 cc one from an MG 1100. On the original Minis, the transmission (and differential) was part of the engine, so I ended up with a final drive ratio that was numerically too high for any but city driving. This became very obvious while driving it from VA to CA. Tolley (can't remember his first name - remembered the last because it's my wife's maiden name) put in a Cooper S final drive for a very reasonable price. The car died in the mid-70's, but his work never failed.

 

I have seen great work by Creative Autoworks. Good shop.

 

Here are some suggestions I've copied from various MINI sites (including this one!) on recommended shops in San Diego. I can't speak from personal experience about any of these.

Once my waranty runs out, I'll be visiting them!

Andrew Russell

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San Diego Performance European (formerly Apex Engineering 858-751-0710. Website is www.apexengineering.com.

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La Jolla Independent at 5535 La Jolla Blvd (858-488-1555).


Creative Autoworks have done a few things for me. They have great rates and have been very helpful. Located in Kearney Mesa website: http://creativeautoworks.com/


Soooo... I went to Baron's Foriegn car service on Miramar to have some work done on my 04 Mini, Very knowledgable, very helpful and excellent service. I would reccomend them if you are nearing the end of warranty or want any aftermarket parts installed. Talk to Dave, he (and most of his service crew) owns and drives a mini !

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Lutz Tires 2853 Market St, San Diego, 92102 - (619) 234-3535 was referred to me from another forum member that used to live in San Diego. They did a great job putting on my Eibach springs and Koni sprot struts. Ask for Mike.

Also, I stumbled on a great local place for springs and struts at ASI or www.shox.com. Their warehouse is actually located in El Cajon. I couldn't find any cheaper prices for my parts, including on the internet. They have a great amount of expertise too. Most of their business is via the internet, but they are more than happy to sell to locals as well!

 

Wow, small world.

Dennis Tolley is the man you're thinking of. I am his son. Dennis has been a one-man shop since the mid 60s. He still runs Tolley's Foreign Car in Lemon Grove (you may have gone to his downtown location which was there from 1966-73). I still see some older Minis in his shop fairly regularly.

 

I've used Extreme Motorsports San Deigo and they did a fine job for me.
Extreme Motorsports SD
7926 Raytheon Road
San Diego, CA. 92111
Fax: 858-278-3122
PH 858-278-3988

It's on the mesa and I think highly of them. Although you don't know me from Adam.