Welcome to Air Cooled Engineering. We take pride in looking after both your car and your pocket.
We specialise in the servicing and repair of French and German vehicles, but we carry out repairs on all makes and models to the highest standard. Established in 1974, we have been trading for over 50 years, working on everything from classic cars to the latest high-tech vehicles – so your car is always in safe hands.
About Us
Our team consists of nine highly experienced motor engineers, with over 100 years of hands-on experience between them. The team consists of 9 fully trained technicians, all committed to delivering a first-class service. We understand that what you want most is a safe, reliable repair or service at a fair price, and that principle underpins everything we do and will always do so.
Air Cooled Engineering was founded by Roger Sullivan-Webb on the Horspath Industrial Estate in the mid-1970s after leaving the former Salters Citroën dealership. Initially specialising in French and German vehicles, Roger was soon joined by his friend Chris Burbidge, who had previously worked within a VW/Audi franchise.
From the outset, customers recognised that Air Cooled Engineering was different. Rather than being treated as just another job, they were looked after by people who genuinely loved the mechanical side of the trade and only ever advised work that was truly necessary. As a result, the customer base grew rapidly, and Chris later went on to establish his own successful garage, Autotecnics.
In 1990, Roger’s son, Dale, joined the business straight out of school. Alongside learning the mechanical aspects of the trade, Dale also adopted the company’s core values — treating customers as friends and taking genuine pride in every job. After four years at college and gaining extensive experience working on all types of vehicles, Dale became instrumental in supporting the growing business and caring for an increasingly loyal customer base.
As the business continued to expand, Roger retired in 2003, confident that his customers would continue to receive the same honesty, respect, and quality of service that the company had always stood for. Investment in a dedicated MOT bay, the latest diagnostic equipment, and continued staff development ensured Air Cooled Engineering could service and repair all modern vehicles while maintaining its traditional standards.
Today, Air Cooled Engineering operates from two fully equipped workshops on the Horspath Industrial Estate, carrying out Class 4 and Class 7 MOT testing, as well as servicing, general repairs, cambelts and clutch replacements on all makes and models.
Many of our customers are still those who first trusted us decades ago — along with their children, family members, and friends — a loyalty we are immensely proud of.
Why Choose Air Cooled Engineering?
Established in 1974 – over 50 years of experience you can trust
Fully trained technicians with the knowledge and experience to work on modern and older vehicles
Class 4 and Class 7 MOT tests carried out using the latest MOT testing equipment
Honest advice and clear explanations – no unnecessary work or surprises
Two fully equipped workshops on the Horspath Industrial Estate
Repairs and servicing for all makes and models, carried out to the highest standard
At Air Cooled Engineering we provide you with comprehensive car repairs, car servicing and maintenance of your vehicle. Our diagnostic tools are able to scan all makes and models, and we work to the highest standards with up-to-date machinery. We aim to deliver our customers the best possible solution for their vehicles.
Why Choose Air Cooled Engineering for Your MOT in Oxford & Horspath?
Two fully equipped MOT workshops for flexibility and short-notice appointments. Class 4 & Class 7 MOT testing for cars, vans, minibuses, and commercial vehicles. Largest Class 7 ramp in the area, accommodating long vehicles. Experienced technicians ensuring professional, reliable testing
with on-site repairs and servicing if your vehicle does not pass.
Wet Belt (Belt-in-Oil) Replacement Specialists
At Air Cooled Engineering, we specialise in the replacement of wet timing belts (belt-in-oil systems) — a complex job that many garages will not undertake.
Wet belts run inside the engine oil and are designed to be quieter and more efficient. However, in real-world use they are prone to premature wear and degradation, particularly if oil quality, service history or driving conditions are not ideal. When wet belts fail, the consequences are often catastrophic engine damage.
Why Choose Air Cooled Engineering for Your Fleet?
Over 50 years of experience (established 1974)
Two fully equipped workshops on the Horspath Industrial Estate for fast service
Experienced in all makes and models
Flexible and responsive – we understand fleet vehicles are crucial to your business
Trusted by multiple local Oxfordshire businesses.
Air Conditioning Service and Repair
There is nothing more important than a properly functioning A/C System in your vehicle during those hot days of summer.
If you have a problem, let Air Cooled Engineering‘s experienced mechanics help you diagnose and get your auto A/C System working properly.
DPF Cleaning – Unblock your filter and get to the heart of the problem, so your engine stays healthy and efficient. We clear blocked DPFs and find the cause, helping prevent repeat issues and keeping your vehicle performing at its best. Blocked DPF? We can clean it and uncover why it happened, saving you time, money, and future headaches.
Timing Belt Replacements – We carry out expert belt replacements to keep your vehicle performing at its best.
Keep your engine safe with our professional cam timing belt replacement services to ensure your car runs smoothly and does not let you down.
For our customers leaving their vehicles with us for service or repairs we can provide a *FREE Courtesy car in many situations. (Subject to availability)
*Not available for MOT’s
