The victim drove to the parking lot of Carmen Plaza and got out of her vehicle to check the flat tire.
She realized there was no flat tire and quickly got back into her car. At the same time the suspect jumped into her car on the passenger side.
Police say he began grabbing the woman. The woman ordered him out of her car, they struggled and she called for help.
The man got out of her vehicle, got into his own car and raced away.
The suspect is described as a white male, approximately 50 years old. His vehicle was described as a dark colored Chevrolet four-door sedan.
Investigators are asking anyone with information to contact the Camarillo Police Department at (805) 388-5100.