Unsolicited rebuttal to Steve L's negative review dated 07/29/12: Summit Transmissions is a NO pressure repair shop - plain and simple. Jerry was offering you an entry level price to remove and disassemble your transmission in a way that was compliant with California Bureau of Automotive Repair rules. Despite what you may believe, there is no other way to accurately diagnose and quote repairs to internal components of a transmission. Other shops may give you a 1 size fits all quote to get your business, but that price will escalate quickly upon disassembly and inspection. You also neglected to mention that the entire initial charge of $695 would be credited to the final price of repairs. Shop with confidence at Summit Transmissions fellow Yelpers! Jerry is an upstanding member of our community, one of the last remaining honest shop owners and is skilled in his trade! Kudos to Summit Transmissions 10/08/12: Being raised in the Automotive business, trained in Automatic Transmission repair, and the kind of person that does all of his own work, I was hesitant to let any shop touch my family vehicle. When the factory transmission failed (at 88k miles!) and left my loved ones stranded on the 94/5 merge during rush hour traffic, I immediately wanted to fix only the components that failed and trade in the 2006 Tahoe for a new vehicle. I simply had lost faith and trust in the carriage that transports my family. Upon contacting Summit Transmissions, Jerry immediately calmed my nerves and shot me the straight facts about my particular situation. He listened to my needs and "talked the talk" at my level. I too, was given the option for $695 to pull the transmission and inspect the damage, and was offered to just repair the damaged 3-4 clutch pack. Knowing full well that this price would be credited to the final bill! Jerry went above and beyond any other Transmission Repair Shop by evaluating the condition of my ENTIRE vehicle and even went so far as to run the book values for me. He took the time to listen to my needs and helped me make a FULLY informed decision with regard to the repair of my vehicle, if it made financial sense to fix only what needed to be repaired and if trading in our car was a viable option. I dare anyone to name another Transmission Shop that would go this distance for their customers! In the end, Jerry and I decided to perform a full rebuild on the Transmission and repair/replace only what was necessary in the Transfer Case. I now have a custom built Transmission that performs better than the factory unit, and paid the same price (actually less!) than what was quoted at 2 other shops for a stock rebuild! Our vehicle performs flawlessly and all of the factory deficiencies have been alleviated. Furthermore, Jerry and his excellent staff at Summit Transmissions have restored the faith and trust I had previously lost in our vehicle. Just try and put a price tag on that!!! Sincerely your satisfied customer, Mike Paschalydis read more

My check engine light came on and my oil change guy said "uh oh, that's a transmission problem". I hadn't had any signs of transmission failure (95k miles on an '04 Jeep Cherokee) and was very scared to hear that I needed a $3500 new transmission on my car only worth $5K. As a female, the most worrisome thing is wondering if a mechanic is scamming me or not. My car then locked into second gear and wouldn't come out. Ugh...now I needed help ASAP. I took my Jeep to Jerry at Summit after finding them on Yelp. They weren't the closest, but I liked their reviews. I drove 30mph in second gear for 8 miles to get to them and of course needed it repaired like yesterday as I was leaving on a trip soon. They were so gracious and helpful even though I was stressed and hurried. Not only did they fit it in the same day I called, they gave me a rental car for $25/day, and had my car fixed in 24 hrs. It was only a few sensors totaling under $600 (including rental car). I've never been so happy for a $600 repair bill, ha! I was so thankful that it wasn't a super major repair, and that Jerry was honest about it. He took the time to explain everything to me and even came out to shake my hand when I picked up my car. It's so nice to have not only a good and honest mechanic, but a good and honest person when you are in a stressful situation like that. I'm thankful for the quality of work, but also for how they handled me as a human. I'd highly recommend them to anyone for any work. I'm going to start going just for an oil change! Thanks Summit! read more

Jerry and Sandy's service was highly recommended to me by close friends who have been loyal customers for years, through several vehicles:) When I came in, I already knew that my third and fourth gears were out. I also knew that I would not be able to get my car out of the shop immediately (it would probably take a few paychecks). Jerry actually worked with me on payment solutions. I was impressed that he would go this far to help a single working mom. He gave me various options to have my transmission repaired, including the pros and cons of each option. I felt I was involved in the process of selecting an option, instead of being strong-armed into having no choice but one. Please note if you will - as a single working parent, I am very wary regarding automotive repairs and initial estimates, but Jerry and Sandy were true to their words. They absolutely went above and beyond their expected obligations to me. I dropped my vehicle off and was given a ride to the trolley station to get to work, which made me feel more like a friend than a customer. They did not provide me with an estimate and leave me in the cold. They discussed my options and allowed me to comfortably decide on my own how I wished to proceed. In summary, Summit Transmissions is a business I would recomment for any single mom who has car problems (they do more than transmissions). They are God-sent people:) I would personally drive you down there myself - that's how much I believe in them after only one repair. read more

My 11 year old minivan (135,000 miles) was running really bad and shifting strangely. My mechanic checked it out and said the only problems he found were a catalytic converter code that had been there for years and dark transmission fluid (it had been clean 6 months earlier). He thought my transmission was going out and recommended Summit Transmissions. Jerry told me they did a free transmission check, but said they could also do a high tech diagnostic on the engine and transmission for a little extra $$$. I was thinking if I have to decide whether to replace the transmission, knowing if the engine was also about to go would be useful, so I OK'd the extra expense. He did a thorough check and discovered that the engine and transmission were both in pristine condition. He thought the problem was a clogged catalytic converter. He serviced the transmission (changing the burned fluid for fresh) and sent me on my way. I am really glad he did a thorough check. I know the equipment he used is expensive, but because he offered it and I chose to pay extra for him to use it on my van, he was able to determine that there was nothing wrong with my transmission. If I had gone somewhere else, I might have paid to replace a perfectly good transmission only to discover that the problem was not fixed. Jerry was right, it did turn out to be a clogged catalytic converter. He really saved me a lot of money with his thorough diagnostic process. read more

I initially brought my 1992 Isuzu Rodeo to the shop (after being recommended by a Firestone technician) when I felt my clutch beginning to slip & I was prepared to simply replace the entire clutch assembly. After leaving my vehicle with them, Jerry called me the next day to give me his diagnosis of the issue I was having. He was able to feel the slipping & it was not due to the clutch but instead it was low pressure in the master & slave cylinders. He replaced both cylinders for half of what a new clutch would have cost me & he also brought to light a small list of other issues that could have been detrimental to my little SUV. The rear seal on my transmission was leaking, causing the transmission to run almost completely dry before Jerry was able to replace the seal. My transmission mount was also collapsed & Jerry spotted it right away. Isuzu parts are hard to come by & with my Rodeo being 25 years old, most of its parts are no longer manufactured, as was the case with the transmission mount. Jerry was able to modify a similar mount in order for everything to fit properly & his modification came at no cost to me. I am glad he was very adamant about getting it fixed because when he showed me the old mount, the rubber was rotten & breaking apart. I appreciate the thoroughness of Jerry & his mechanics, & I would recommend this trusted shop to anyone having issues with their vehicle. read more

Summary: Summit fixed another shop's work under warranty. Excellent patience and service even for a customer that didn't pay them a dime. Eight months later, still running strong! Full Review: While traveling in Utah, we had transmission trouble on our Ford F150. We found a reputable local shop and they rebuilt the transmission. The shop offered a nationwide warranty, which was important to us because we live in San Diego. Shortly after coming back, the transmission began having trouble. We asked for referrals from our trusted shop and friends and they recommended Summit. Summit diagnosed the problem and repaired it under warranty, even though it required significant parts and labor. They were excellent in their communication and honest as can be. The repair took a bit longer than I expected, but they are a very busy shop so that can be expected. Several weeks later, an unrelated problem again broke the transmission. We again went to Summit, where they again rebuilt the transmission under warranty quickly and efficiently. I was worried that the warranty would not cover this additional problem, but they fixed it no questions asked. Summit's service and warranty really gave us confidence. My wife puts a lot of miles on her truck traveling interstate and I am glad that Summit has a nationwide warranty that will cover her. Thanks again, Summit! read more

WOW, Is they only way to start off this review. First I am a military wife with a husband that has been deployed for almost a year. The truck needed an over haul and not knowing much about this I needed someone to turn to. Well I found him. Jerry the owner at Summit Transmissions is one of the most honest,hard working guy out there. He knew I was in deep and was very patient with me, explaining everything every step of the way. Not only did I get awesome service but exceptional pricing on parts and labor. I have a 1997 Dodge diesel 2500 that had to have a transmission, brake job,tires,glass repair,a/c repair, coolant repair, basically everything under the hood. I travel a lot for a living so I didnt have time to fool around trying to find shops that could help in all areas. Jerry not only did an awesome job on the transmission and other parts but also made sure the truck was taken back and forth to get everything completely fixed so I wouldn't have to worry. I am so happy that I took a chance on Summit Transmissions. I will recommend all of my friends take there vehicles here, and service mine as well in the future here. Thank you so much Jerry for being an honest shop, compassionate towards my needs, and for making sure everything was perfect! read more

I called the shop and spoke with mike on the phone he gave me a blind estimate with out looking at my car he made me feel very comfortable and confident in the shop that I was making a good choice after reading such amazing reviews on them that are all true!! I made an appointment and took my car in today I dropped it off at 9 and got it back around 2 and they were pretty busy when I went to drop my car off I met jerry who was so polite and understanding I explained to him a problem I had with the last shop I went to and he assured me that I had nothing to worry about with them!! He was honest and very insightful he truly cares about the customs not the money through out the service there were a few things they were concerned about and asked me to make sure we were on the same page with everything and kept me completely up to date on everything going on the price was even a little less then what I was originally quoted I am so happy that I came to summit my car is absolutely perfect now thank you mike and jerry this shop is amazing fair and honest I would reccomend everyone going here with all your car problems you won't be disappointed I have my shop for life now thank you guys for being so amazing !!!!!!! read more

My husband went to Summit Transmissions on a recommendation from an auto repair business that did not specialize in transmission repair but highly recommended Summit. He was very happy and totally satisfied with the work done and the fact that Jerry stands behind that work with one of the best waranties in town. I recently had a problem with oil leaking from my car and thought it was transmission fluid. Upon inspection Jerry discovered it was power steering fluid from a leak in the line. Though this is generally not the area he deals with he opted to repair it and also repaired a collapsed motor mount. He is so conscientious that he tries to keep the cost down by using after market parts but will also tell you if you are better off with a new part. He makes all recommendations before any work but ultimately leaves the decision up to you before proceeding. After 46 yrs. as a fllight attendant I consider myself to be pretty good at intuiting a situation and find Jerry and Sandy to be honest, forthwright and caring that their customers are satisified and return. They will always have my recommendation and my return business. read more

I have been taking my vehicle to Summit for two years now and couldnt be more pleased. Jerry is an honest broker and will not only give you all the info you need to make an informed decision, but will go the extra mile ensure that all services are done to the highest standard. I recently brought my vehicle in to do a oil change. After the service Jerry walked me out to do a final check on the transmission fluid. It was a little dirty but plenty fine to drive off with. I was in a rush and left right after. About an hour later Jerry gave me a call and explained to me that the service done that day was not up to his standard. He then told me that whenever was convenient for me, I could come in to get a FREE transmission fluid flush. I was blown away, especially since I was more than satisfied with the service prior to his phone call. Jerry really impressed me with his character that day. The 20 min drive to his shop is more than worth the customer service and product you get. Thanks again Jerry! read more

Just got my car back from them and .. well.. OMG!! It runs like it's brand new!! I was having a lot of noise coming from a bad input bearing and I also had an oil leak. The part took a while to come in, but once I got my car back, it was totally worth the wait!! Jerry was honest about what was up with my car and although I couldn't fix everything I wanted to, the valuable information he gave me about the rest of my car will enable me to prioritize future repairs. As a former mechanic, I had a pretty good idea what was wrong just by the sound I was getting and sure enough, that was it. He didn't try to sell me any additional repairs, he just gave an honest assessment of my car's overall health and worked with me to get the most critical things done making the most out of the limited budget I had. Having been in this business before, I am well aware of what transmission repair costs run and this place is very reasonable. I'm definitely going to come here for future repairs. He did an awesome job! read more

My 1996 Mercury Sable GS developed transmission slipping at about 120,000 miles, this after regular fluid changes and a partial overhaul elsewhere at about 60,000 miles. Following inspection, Jerry, the owner, advised me regarding various overhaul or replacement options, and even located some used replacements. I knew major transmission work combined with looming major suspension and brake work would far exceed the car's value, and Jerry did not vigorously argue against my plan to "drive it 'til it drops", as I've sometimes run into with other shops over the years. They seem competent, honest, and don't do a "hard sell." He could have done like some shops and then tried to push another transmission fluid change on the premise that it might help, but did not do so. I've also used them on my 1997 Roadtrek Class "B" motorhome (Dodge Ram Van 2500), and will continue to do so. Another plus is that they're on a major street with fairly frequent bus service, and the bus stops are only yards away. read more

I took my 2004 Chrysler minivan to Summit for a routine transmission service. This was completed quickly. Thinking that Summit only worked on transmissions, I asked Jerry if they could take a look at some steering and suspension problems that several other shops had been unable to diagnose. The answer from Jerry was "yes". (It occurred to me that if they could repair transmissions, one of the most complex mechanical systems in an auto, they might be pros with other systems as well). After a complete diagnosis, Jerry showed me each problem (while the van was up on the hoist), and explained how each worn out part would effect the drivability (one was a safety issue). After obtaining an estimate, I did some homework and found that Summit's quote was competitive, then gave the go ahead. Following the repairs, the van drives like a new car. Five stars for Summit's diagnostic and repair expertise, explaining everything to the customer in detail, and honesty. read more

I was recently referred to Summit Transmissions and Jerry Kubitsky by my regular auto repair shop. They were not able to determine a problem with the transmission in my 2001 jeep. They said Summit is the best in San Diego so I took the jeep to Jerry. I was expecting good service and a good repair, but was amazed at all he did for me. I have little experience with transmission repairs and Jerry went out of his way to explain every detail of the research that went into finding the problem. He continued to search for the true cause of the problem even though others might have been satisfied with the superficial fix. At his own expense, without telling me, he replaced other parts as a preventative measure. I suspect he spent 10 hours of extra time and another $300 in added parts that he didn't even charge for. I am so pleased and highly recommend him. I am grateful that I was referred to him and know that the praises were definitely warranted. read more

Upon a recommendation from my carburetor guy, I brought in my 1964 Cutlass with a real "clunky" shift into low. He drove it, looked at it, drove it some more, did some research and then called and was completely upfront and honest... "I'm not full confident that we can tackle this problem on this particular car with this kind of transmission," said Jerry on the phone. "I'd like to recommend you to someone who specializes in these." He then not only recommended an old car expert, he also volunteered to drive my car over there, and remembered to tell them the other problem beside the bad shifting into low; the car also needed some adjustment when going into Park so it wouldn't pop out. Totally pleased I asked how much for this incredible service and he said 'Nothing!" Wow! I'm bringing my wife's Explorer in today and I am fully confident in a great job at a fair price. read more

Ive come to Summit Transit a few times to have work on my mothers car before but this was the first time I have come in for work on my own car. He pointed out a lot of things that happened to be wrong with my car and made sure I understood what was going on with each part. He told me about the priority of each thing and made sure my safety was taken care of first. I have always been a big fan of Jerry and all of his employees and love that he cares so much about his customers. I'm a 19 year old female and the few other places I went definitely tried to use that to their advantage by telling me it was going to cost wayyy more than what Jerry said and continuously tried to have me replace it all at once saying if I didn't my whole car would fall apart. Love the staff and the work...and the price. I would highly recommend read more

These guys are amazing! After reading what looks like only amazing reviews I decided to make a call regarding some transmission issues I may have. The phone call and the way my questions were answered is what drew me like a magnet to this shop! I wasn't lured with false promises or hopes. I was educated about the potential problems and fixes of what I knew little about. I can go on and on but what you need to hear is these guys know their stuff like no other, they've serviced SAN Diego for many many years, they care about servicing your needs and your car like that of a doctor and his/her patient. I really felt that way. I will definitely be going back and feel like I have that "find" that you look for and sometimes never in a lifetime encounter. Thank you Jerry and staff. read more