About Us

Steve Beck - Check Point Automotive

Steve Beck
Owner/Mechanic

Steve is known by his friends in the car world as a master mechanic and vintage car expert. If he is not working on cars, he is at a racetrack, car show or swap meet. Born and raised in Santa Monica, he worked mostly on British cars in his youth. He went on to work for GT International Motors, BMW specialists in Santa Monica, then Reuman (now Century) BMW in North Hollywood where he was certified as a BMW technician. Steve and Chris Toppenberg started Check Point Automotive in 1994 and they have been servicing their clients’ BMWs ever since. Called upon for his extensive knowledge, Steve regularly judges classic car shows including the Palos Verdes, Dana Point, and Santa Barbara Concourses. He is a docent at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in Monterey. He is also a founding member of Shelby Club Los Angeles Chapter.

David Barr - Check Point Automotive Mechanic

David Barr
Mechanic

David is a native Angelino and remembers working with his dad on his Jaguar XK 150 when he was a toddler. He believes he was born a mechanic. In his youth, he fixed his and his friends’ bicycles. He went on to work as a head mechanic for Off Road Warehouse in San Diego specializing in VW off road race cars. He also worked for GT International Motors in Santa Monica. Then he started his own company, Summit Automotive specializing in BMWs and Italian cars, and successfully operated it for 33 years. David came to join Check Point with his well-established clientele and expertise in modern and classic BMWs.

Vicente "Vinnie" Zelaya, Checkpoint Automotive BMW Mechanic

Vicente Zelaya
Mechanic

Originally from Memphis, Tennessee, Vinnie was always interested in fixing anything mechanical since his childhood. He repaired cars for his friends and family in high school. He attended the Los Angeles Trade Technical College where he majored in Auto Repair and Related Technology. Vinnie thinks it is a blessing to be able to work on cars as his profession. If he is not working on cars, he is fixing anything on wheels including skateboards and bicycles.

Tom Cleave Check Point Automotive

Tom Cleave
Admin

Originally from Chicago, Tom moved to Los Angeles in 1967. He was formally trained as a classical cellist. He regularly plays bass with various Rock & Roll bands in the LA area. His love for cars started in college and he built and raced his F Production Sprite in SCCA from the ’70s through the ’90s. He started his own company, Autobahn BMW, in the early ’80s, Rensport Racing in the early ’90s and was in business for more than 30 years. He is often called upon by vintage racing teams to be their consultant and mechanic. Tom joined Check Point with his skills in repairing BMWs from all periods.

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Check Point Automotive

The Check Point
Advantage

Auto servicing your car is an essential task that should not be ignored or forgotten.

Straightforward Communication

Each member of our team is a straightforward person whom you will find easy to communicate with.

Straightforward Pricing

We've been in the business a LONG time and know how to accurately estimate work so there are no surprises.

Genuine and OEM Parts

We only use the proven fit and quality of Genuine Parts to maintain and repair vehicle.

Schedule

Need an Appointment? Call Us Now

(310) 391-9774