When you need advice on car repair or general auto maintenance, this guide has you covered. Whether it’s a quick fix you’re seeking or solutions to a bigger issue, you’ll find everything you need in this guide. 

The Essential Guide to Car Repairs and Maintenance

ALBANY — One of the first questions you might ask when looking for an auto shop is, “What’s your labor rate?” While this is good information to have, it’s far from the most important question you can ask, and it certainly shouldn’t be the determining factor in your decision. The truth is that a shop’s labor rate means almost nothing—it has little to do with the actual cost of the job and even less to do with the quality of the work. Consider the following example. One mechanic tells you their labor rate is $200 an hour and gives an estimate of $200 for the job. Meanwhile, the mechanic down the street says their labor rate is $50 an hour and quotes the same total cost for the job. Read more

<h1>Dana Meyer: A Caring Career</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
ALBANY — For Dana Meyer, a career in auto repair became just as much about caring for people as it was about caring for cars. “My brother was in the auto repair business, so I kind of followed him into it,” he recounts. “I found early on that I had a mechanical aptitude, so the work came easy to me. I also liked the fact that the results are pretty immediate with auto repair work. After I started doing it professionally, I found a lot of reward in working with customers and seeing the joy it brought them to have their car problems fixed. So, it’s a never-ending series of small rewards.”
Today, as owner of Dana Meyer Auto Care, Dana says his favorite part of his job continues to be taking care of customers. “We almost specialize in people who’ve given up on other shops or received insanely high repair estimates. We’ll have people call us and say, ‘The dealer says I need $8,000 worth of work on my car!’ And we’ll look at it and find it’s actually only one-tenth of that. So, customers really appreciate our honesty and reasonable prices.”
A resident of Albany (where he lives with his wife, June), Dana spends his time outside of work on a variety of pastimes. “I’m very active as a singer and I sing in a local symphony chorus. I previously sang in the Albany Community Chorus and the Brooklyn Broadway Singers. I also enjoy skiing in the winter.”
In regard to a personal and professional philosophy, Dana says he has a heart for service. “I would summarize it as being in service to people’s needs. I’ve always volunteered in the PTA at my sons’ schools and I’ve been president of community organizations. It just seemed like the appropriate way to utilize some of my skills. And, of course, that translates to my career in auto repair. Serving customers is what makes the job so rewarding for me.”
When asked what he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Dana says he would spend more time on the activities he currently enjoys. “I would definitely continue singing, and I’d probably go back to some of the sports I used to enjoy in the past. For example, I used to do ice dancing before I had kids, so it would be fun to get involved in that again.”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: What’s your favorite local restaurant? 
A: Lao-Thai Kitchen in Albany.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go? 
A: Israel.
Q: What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day? 
A: Read a good book.
Q: What kinds of books do you like to read? 
A: For the most part, I read science fiction and historical fiction books.
Q: What was your first car? 
A: A 1951 Rover.

Dana Meyer: A Caring Career By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter ALBANY — For Dana Meyer, a career in auto repair became just as much about caring for people as it was about caring for cars. “My brother was in the auto repair business, so I kind of followed him into it,” he recounts. “I found early on that I had a mechanical aptitude, so the work came easy to me. I also liked the fact that the results are pretty immediate with auto repair work. After I started doing it professionally, I found a lot of reward in working with customers and seeing the joy it brought them to have their car problems fixed. Read more

Dana Meyer is president of Dana Meyer Auto Care, a Diamond Certified company. He can be reached at (510) 221-6300 or by email.

Dana Meyer: A Caring Career

MARTINEZ — If you own an older vehicle (1999 or prior) in California, getting your biennial smog test can be stressful. Even if your vehicle drives fine, long-term buildup in its fuel system can cause increased emissions, which may result in a failure to pass smog. In this case, you typically have two options: pay for costly parts replacement or replace your vehicle entirely. However, there’s another option you may not be aware of. If your vehicle is on the borderline of passing its emissions test, a simple store-bought product can make the difference between passing and failing. CRC Guaranteed to Pass® is a fuel additive with powerful detergents that are designed to remove carbon and varnish deposits from vehicle fuel systems and emission control components. Read more

<h1>Alex Galvan: Car Doctor</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
MARTINEZ — As a young man, Alex Galvan had aspirations to become a medical professional. However, he never thought the patients he’d one day work with would have wheels and mechanical engines. “After graduating early from high school, I decided to work toward becoming a registered nurse,” he recounts. “I enrolled at the local junior college, took care of all my prerequisites and applied for a few nursing programs. However, I had some difficulty getting into a program and ended up on a long waiting list. While I waited, I decided to start working on cars. I had a cousin who was a master mechanic and he taught me a bit about the trade. I’d always had an interest in it—whether medical or automotive, I was fascinated by how things work. Pretty soon, I found myself moving toward a career in automotive work, and in 2013, I started my own business.”
Today, as owner of The Car Doctor, Alex says his favorite part of his job is keeping his customers satisfied. “I like making people happy. I love seeing the joy and relief on a customer’s face when their air conditioning is fixed or they’re able to pass a smog test or just get back on the road. It’s a great feeling and it keeps me going.”
A resident of Concord, Alex spends his time outside of work on a variety of active pastimes. “I’m very athletic and I enjoy playing all types of sports,” he details. “I also love riding motorcycles and spending time with my son, Raiden. We do tons of fun stuff together—we go to the park almost every day, and I even took him snowboarding for the first time last year.”
In regard to a professional philosophy, Alex espouses the value of perspective. “I definitely believe in treating others the way I’d want to be treated,” he affirms. “That’s why I often try to put myself in the customer’s shoes and ask questions like, ‘Was I treated fairly?’ and, ‘Was the job done in a timely manner?’ For the most part, I feel confident that I’d be completely satisfied if I was on the other end of the transaction.”
When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Alex says he’d travel. “I’ve been at this shop six days a week for the past eight years, so it would be nice to get out a bit more. I’ve never been anywhere other than California and the surrounding states, so I’d love to see how people live in other parts of the country and the world.”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: What was your first job? 
A: I was a lifeguard at Raging Waters.
Q: What’s your favorite local restaurant? 
A: Tomatina in Walnut Creek. I’m Italian and I really love Italian food.
Q: Did you play any sports in high school? 
A: I played every sport in high school. That’s probably what I was most known for. I have a closet full of MVP trophies that I won from playing sports.
Q: What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day? 
A: Lay in bed and watch a movie, or hang out with a couple of buddies and play some dominos or cribbage.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go? 
A: I’ve heard a lot of good things about Costa Rica, so I’d probably go there and then do a tour of Central and South America.

Alex Galvan: Car Doctor By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter MARTINEZ — As a young man, Alex Galvan had aspirations to become a medical professional. However, he never thought the patients he’d one day work with would have wheels and mechanical engines. “After graduating early from high school, I decided to work toward becoming a registered nurse,” he recounts. “I enrolled at the local junior college, took care of all my prerequisites and applied for a few nursing programs. However, I had some difficulty getting into a program and ended up on a long waiting list. While I waited, I decided to start working on cars. I had a cousin who was a master mechanic and he taught me a bit about the trade. Read more

Alex Galvan is owner of The Car Doctor, a Diamond Certified company. He can be reached at (925) 968-4723 or by email.

Alex Galvan: Car Doctor

FREMONT — Most vehicle owners know (or are at least somewhat aware) that engine oil changes are important, but few understand the actual extent of their importance. Many people think it’s just something you’re supposed to do, but they don’t really know why—which might explain why they don’t take it seriously. The reality is that oil change appointments are important, but their importance goes beyond the basics of the job. First of all, oil changes are crucial for the healthy functioning of a vehicle’s engine. That’s because engines depend on oil to lubricate their many moving parts. Over time, engine oil gets dirty, which makes it less effective at its job. Furthermore, oil can start to run low if it’s not changed and refilled. Read more

<h1>Ron McLeod: Mechanical Aptitude</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
FREMONT — Ron McLeod first discovered his mechanical abilities while working on bicycles as a kid, and it wasn’t long before he took things to a whole other level. “When I was 10 years old, I started fixing the neighborhood kids’ bikes and building my own from scratch,” he remembers. “I also began helping my dad and older brother with their automotive projects. Working on cars just came easy to me—I can remember a few times when my dad had a problem he couldn’t figure out, and I went over and fixed it in two seconds. That would really tick him off!”
Following high school, Ron attended Arizona Automotive Institute before entering the workforce, where he quickly earned a reputation for excellence. “I ended up being the top mechanic at every place I worked, even when it was a chain with multiple stores,” he says. Despite his success, Ron wasn’t satisfied with working for someone else. “Even when I was 14 years old, my goal was to work for myself—it was just matter of finding the right time and place.” In 1994, he realized his lifelong dream and opened his own shop.
Today, as owner of ASAP Automotive, Inc., Ron says he has yet to lose any enthusiasm for his longtime career. “I still have a passion for working on cars, and I also enjoy interacting with my customers and making them happy with our work. I especially like it when we get the opportunity to work on hot rods.”
In keeping with his automotive passion, Ron’s involvement with cars extends beyond his work at the shop. “I’ve always been involved with drag racing, and I do it on occasion,” he says. “My youngest son, Kyle, and I go to Hollister and Pismo Beach fairly often to attend various car shows and drag races.” When he’s not out at the race track or a car show, Ron enjoys watching movies and keeping up with his three other grown children: Andy, Matt and Brittany.
In regard to his professional career, Ron says true success in business starts with the right motivation. “A lot of people go into business thinking they’re going to get rich, but I never went about it that way. For me, simply having the opportunity to make a living doing what I love is as good as it gets.”
When asked what his life would look like if he were to retire tomorrow, Ron says he’d continue to pursue his automotive passion. “I’d love to open a little shop somewhere and build hot rods. I would enjoy each one for a while before selling it and building another!”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: What was your first car? 
A: A 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle.
Q: If you could drive any car, what would you choose? 
A: A Lamborghini.
Q: What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day? 
A: Either relax and watch a movie or tinker on one of my project cars in the garage.
Q: What were you most known for in high school? 
A: I was the class clown—people used to call me McClown.
Q: Music or talk radio? 
A: Music. I mostly listen to classic rock.
Q: Who was the best James Bond? 
A: Roger Moore.

Owner

Ron McLeod: Mechanical Aptitude By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter FREMONT — Ron McLeod first discovered his mechanical abilities while working on bicycles as a kid, and it wasn’t long before he took things to a whole other level. “When I was 10 years old, I started fixing the neighborhood kids’ bikes and building my own from scratch,” he remembers. “I also began helping my dad and older brother with their automotive projects. Working on cars just came easy to me—I can remember a few times when my dad had a problem he couldn’t figure out, and I went over and fixed it in two seconds. That would really tick him off!” Following high school, Read more

Ron McLeod is owner of <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/report/asap-automotive-inc">ASAP Automo</a>t<a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/report/asap-automotive-inc">ive, Inc.</a>, a Diamond Certified company since 2014. He can be reached at (510) 398-0718 or by email.

Ron McLeod: Mechanical Aptitude

SAN FRANCISCO — A car’s tires may be “where the rubber meets the road,” but another important aspect of a vehicle’s traction is its shocks. Unfortunately, unlike tires, shocks tend to be overlooked, which is why the first time you typically hear about them is when they’re leaking, at which point they’re already well beyond their useful lifespan. However, due to the critical part they play in vehicle operation, it’s important to be proactive about inspection and replacement. Most people think shocks are primarily there to make driving more comfortable, but in reality, they have a far more versatile function. For example, shocks’ role in controlling vehicle body movement also translates to safety and stability while driving, Read more

<h1>Walee Gon: The Gift</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
SAN FRANCISCO – Looking back on his life and career, Walee Gon attributes much of his success to the wisdom and inspiration he’s drawn from others, both in person and in print. The sum of these positive influences amounts to what he considers the greatest gift he’s ever received: self-actualization. “This gift has helped me realize my full potential,” says Walee. “It wasn’t given to me by just one person, but rather by several inspiring individuals, including friends, mentors, teachers and authors. I think it’s the best gift I’ve ever received because it showed me what I was capable of and empowered me to achieve it.”
While Walee’s career achievement was bolstered by inspirational influences, his gravitation toward auto repair initially sprang from a simple boyhood fascination. “As a child, I looked at cars as the ultimate toys,” he remembers. “To this day, I consider myself a lover of the automobile.” It’s no surprise that Walee’s first foray into the industry held more than mere financial motivation. “I got my first part-time job while in high school, working at an auto parts store,” he recalls. “In addition to making some extra money, it gave me an opportunity to learn about cars and the industry.”
Just a couple years later, Walee took the knowledge and experience he’d acquired and struck out on his own. “I started an automotive accessories and performance business in 1993, which I ran until 2005,” he explains. “It was at that point I decided to go in another direction and expand to the servicing side of the business. I purchased Faxon Garage, and that’s where I am today.”
A first-generation Chinese immigrant, Walee came to the United States at a young age and was raised in San Francisco, where he still lives with his wife, Betty, and their children, Kenneth and Olivia. “We’re a very classic American family,” he says. As busy as his work keeps him, Walee says family remains his top priority. “I try to take every opportunity I have to spend time with my kids. I even play racing video games with my son, though I’ll often slip in some educational points about the automotive industry.”
Following from his gratitude for the positive influences in his life, Walee says one of the things he enjoys most is sharing the gift with others. “I really enjoy working with people and seeing them develop and realize their potential. Every chance I get, I try to find ways to invest in my fellow teammates at the shop.” Walee’s penchant for empowering others also informs his thoughts about future retirement. “People have different definitions of retirement, and in my case, it doesn’t mean going off somewhere to relax and do nothing for the rest of my life,” he says. “Rather, I would invest more time into supporting the people in my life and being there to offer a helping hand.”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: What was your first car? 
A: A 1978 Ford Fairmont.
Q: If you could drive any car, what would it be? 
A: I would like to drive a car that’s more comfortable than fancy, like a Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Q: If you had a theme song, what would it be? 
A: “One Moment in Time” by Whitney Houston.
Q: What’s your favorite season and why? 
A: Either spring or fall, because I like the temperature.
Q: Who do you think is the best James Bond? 
A: Sean Connery, although Pierce Brosnan is a close second.
Q: What&#8217;s your favorite book? 
A: It&#8217;s a three-way tie between The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Steven R. Covey, How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie, and You Can Sell Anything by Gary Goodman.

President

Walee Gon: The Gift By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter SAN FRANCISCO – Looking back on his life and career, Walee Gon attributes much of his success to the wisdom and inspiration he’s drawn from others, both in person and in print. The sum of these positive influences amounts to what he considers the greatest gift he’s ever received: self-actualization. “This gift has helped me realize my full potential,” says Walee. “It wasn’t given to me by just one person, but rather by several inspiring individuals, including friends, mentors, teachers and authors. I think it’s the best gift I’ve ever received because it showed me what I was capable of and empowered me to achieve it.” While Walee’s career achievement was bolstered by inspirational influences, Read more

Walee Gon is a 27-year veteran of the automotive industry and president of <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/report/faxon-garage">Faxon Garage</a>, a Diamond Certified company. He can be reached at (415) 830-8930 or by <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/contact/faxon-garage">email</a>.

Walee Gon: The Gift

FREMONT — Whether you drive an older or newer car, whether it’s a foreign or domestic model, there’s one thing you shouldn’t waste your money on: resurfacing your brake rotors. Resurfacing is a method for restoring and extending the operating lifespan of rotors that are still in reasonably good condition at the time of brake pad replacement. While this may sound like a good idea, it’s usually more trouble than it’s worth. It’s not uncommon for problems to arise with resurfaced rotors. For example, within six months of having your brake pads replaced and the rotors resurfaced, you may start to have pulsation issues when coming to a stop. You shouldn’t have to deal with this kind of issue so soon after having your brake pads replaced. Read more

<h1>Eduardo Porta: Living the Dream</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Program Reporter</h6>
FREMONT — When asked how he got started in the auto repair industry, Eduardo Porta says it runs in his family. “There are a lot of mechanics in my family, including my grandfather, father and four uncles, so it was natural for me to get involved with cars. That’s why I thought it was funny when my dad told me he wanted me to be a lawyer when I was a teenager. I wasn’t interested in going to school; the only thing I cared about was working on cars.”
Born and raised in Brazil, Eduardo came to the United States as a young man in pursuit of the American Dream. “In Brazil, labor isn’t well-recognized, so mechanics don’t make much money,” he explains. “I knew if I came to the U.S., I’d have a better chance at achieving success. So, at the age of 23, I arrived in Los Angeles with $8 in my pocket and no contacts.”
Despite his humble arrival, Eduardo was determined to fulfill his dreams of prosperity. Through a series of auspicious events, he found a place to stay and started working at an auto repair shop in Colma. Eventually, Eduardo obtained his green card, got married, started a family and became owner of his own repair shop.
Today, as owner of Fremont Foreign Auto, Eduardo says he enjoys dual aspects of his long-time career. “First of all, I love working on cars. The second thing I really like is interacting with customers. If you talk to a lot of mechanics, they’ll say dealing with customers is their least favorite part, but I love it. I guess I’m just a people person.”
A resident of Fremont (where he lives with his wife, Karla Miranda, and their children, Ariel and Izabela), Eduardo expresses his appreciation for his adopted hometown. “I love living in Fremont,” he says. “I like the people, the weather is great, the schools are excellent and it has been a great place to raise our children. There are also plenty of places to go motorcycling on the weekends.”
Outside of work, Eduardo engages in a variety of active pastimes. “I love to travel and I’m nuts about motorcycles—I own 12 of them!” he says. “I also love gardening at home, going to the movies and going dancing with my wife. I usually drag my daughter along, too, because my wife can’t keep up with me!”
In his life and career, Eduardo espouses the importance of honesty. “My father always told me the most important part of being successful in business is honesty,” he says. “If a customer comes in with a problem you can’t fix, be honest and tell them you can’t fix it. Of course, I’ve yet to find myself in that situation—I’ve never had a car come in that I couldn’t fix—but if I ever do, I won’t be ashamed to be honest about it.”
When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Eduardo says he’d go for his longest motorcycle ride yet. “I’d jump on my bike and go around the world. That’s something I’m actually working up to. Last November, I rode down to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, and next year I’m planning to ride all the way to Brazil.”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: What’s the most death-defying feat you’ve ever attempted? 
A: I’ve done everything from skydiving to scuba diving, but the most dangerous thing I’ve ever done is take my Ducati up to 185 miles per hour.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go? 
A: Australia—there are a lot of beautiful areas to go motorcycling.
Q: What was your first car? 
A: A 1967 Ford Corcel, which is a model that’s made in Brazil.
Q: What’s your favorite local restaurant? 
A: Papillon Restaurant in Fremont.
Q: Are you an early bird or a night owl? 
A: An early bird. I’m in bed by 9pm because I wake up at 4:30 every morning.

Eduardo Porta: Living the Dream By James Florence, Diamond Certified Program Reporter FREMONT — When asked how he got started in the auto repair industry, Eduardo Porta says it runs in his family. “There are a lot of mechanics in my family, including my grandfather, father and four uncles, so it was natural for me to get involved with cars. That’s why I thought it was funny when my dad told me he wanted me to be a lawyer when I was a teenager. I wasn’t interested in going to school; the only thing I cared about was working on cars.” Born and raised in Brazil, Eduardo came to the United States as a young man in pursuit of the American Dream. Read more

Eduardo Porta is a lifetime veteran of the auto repair industry and owner of <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/report/fremont-foreign-auto">Fremont Foreign Auto</a>, a Diamond Certified company since 2005. He can be reached at (510) 394-4979 or by <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/contact/fremont-foreign-auto">email</a>.

Eduardo Porta: Living the Dream

PINOLE — When it comes to maintaining your vehicle, make sure you don’t overlook lesser-known yet equally important services. Here are two such services to remember: Brake fluid check Brake fluid absorbs moisture from the atmosphere, and over time, water can build up inside the brake lines. This buildup can cause lots of problems, including corrosion of the wheel cylinders and brake calipers, which can eventually result in a fluid leak. To prevent this, have your brake fluid inspected every time you get an oil change. Transmission service Most vehicle owners are diligent about getting regular oil changes, but a similar maintenance step that sometimes gets overlooked is transmission service. Read more

<h1>Sergio Garcia: A Silver Lining</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
PINOLE — As a young man living in Mexico, Sergio Garcia never planned to become an auto mechanic. However, when he found himself in a position to learn the trade, he took to it like tires to the road. “In my early 20s, I worked as a taxi driver,” he remembers. “My father knew how to fix cars, so whenever my taxicab broke down, I always brought it to him. After a while, I realized I needed to learn how to do my own repair work, so I jumped in and started learning the trade. That’s pretty much where it all started.”
If Sergio’s involvement with automotive work was sparked by necessity, his eventual career was precipitated by fate—a silver lining to an otherwise unfortunate incident. “After I came to the U.S., I got a job working in a warehouse,” he recounts. “One day, while lifting a heavy box, I fell and broke my back. I wound up being on disability for the next two and a half years. During this time, I enrolled in automotive classes at College of Alameda. Later, when I got my insurance settlement, I used the money to open my own auto repair business. That was in 1997 and I’ve been doing it ever since. My son, Caesar, now works with me at the shop, so it has been neat to pass on the trade to the next generation.”
Today, as owner of S G Auto Repair, Sergio says his favorite part of his job is the satisfaction of making customers happy. “It feels good to repair a customer’s car and see the relief on their face when it’s returned to them. I enjoy reading some of the feedback we get from customers online. When someone goes out of their way to express their appreciation for your work, that’s a great feeling.”
A resident of Contra Costa County, Sergio spends his time outside of work on a variety of active pastimes. “I love being outside, whether hiking or going to the beach. My wife and I also like to go on road trips to different parts of California. Some of our favorite spots to visit are Pismo Beach and Lake Tahoe.”
Regarding a professional philosophy, Sergio espouses the importance of honesty. “We’re always honest, even when the customer isn’t watching,” he affirms. “If something isn’t done correctly, they’re going to find out, and that’s not the way we do business. Honesty isn’t something we brag about—it’s something we show by how we act.”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: Are you an early bird or a night owl? 
A: I’m an early bird.
Q: What’s your favorite type of food? 
A: Mexican food.
Q: What’s your favorite sport? 
A: Boxing.
Q: What was your first car? 
A: A yellow 1972 Volkswagen with 500,000 miles on it. The first time I took my wife out for dinner, we drove to a nearby city and the car broke down at least three times during the trip.

Sergio Garcia: A Silver Lining By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter PINOLE — As a young man living in Mexico, Sergio Garcia never planned to become an auto mechanic. However, when he found himself in a position to learn the trade, he took to it like tires to the road. “In my early 20s, I worked as a taxi driver,” he remembers. “My father knew how to fix cars, so whenever my taxicab broke down, I always brought it to him. After a while, I realized I needed to learn how to do my own repair work, so I jumped in and started learning the trade. That’s pretty much where it all started.” If Sergio’s involvement with automotive work was sparked by necessity, Read more

Sergio Garcia owner of S G Auto Repair, a Diamond Certified company. He can be reached at (925) 350-6448 or by email.

Sergio Garcia: A Silver Lining

SANTA ROSA — Most drivers know to be concerned when their vehicle’s “check engine” light comes on, but few are aware of the potential complexity of the situation. Here are a few tips to help you better understand your “check engine” light: 1) While the purpose of a “check engine” light is to alert the driver of a problem sensed by the vehicle’s onboard computer system, there are several things that can cause it to come on, from an issue with the emissions system to something as simple as a loose gas cap. Though it’s a good idea to get an illuminated “check engine” light diagnosed, you may save yourself a trip to the mechanic by checking to see if your gas cap is screwed on tightly. Read more

<h1>Dave Proffer: Going Ashore</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
SANTA ROSA &mdash; Dreaming of a life at sea, a young Dave Proffer enrolled at the California Maritime Academy to pursue a career in nautical industrial transportation. However, it didn’t take long for him to discover he preferred the comforts of dry land. “You don’t really appreciate land until you don’t see it for five days at a time,” he laughs. “In the end, I decided being out at sea just wasn’t for me.” Fortunately, Dave’s prior experience in auto repair gave him something to fall back on when he returned to shore. “I took auto shop in high school and spent a lot of time fixing cars, so I decided to get back into it on a professional level, and I’ve being enjoying it ever since.”
Today, as owner of Empire Auto Repair &#038; Smog, Dave says one of his favorite parts of the job is surprising customers by radically transforming their vehicles. “I enjoy watching a customer’s reaction when they see their vehicle go from the ‘before’ stage to the ‘after’ stage. Every so often, a car comes in that the owner is ready to give up on, which gives me an opportunity to ‘wow’ them when they return to pick it up.”
Dave currently resides in Santa Rosa, the same town in which he was born and raised. “Having grown up here, I know a lot of people in the area, which is probably my favorite thing about living and working here,” he says. “Not only do I have a lot of longtime friends and customers, my local longevity also helps me get a lot of word-of-mouth referrals.”
Outside of work, Dave spends much of his time in the company of his two teenage sons, Justin and Cody. “We enjoy outdoor activities like camping, riding dirt bikes in the Indian Valley and water skiing at Lake Sonoma. The boys are also involved in martial arts and kickboxing, but I’m getting a little too old for that,” he laughs. At home, Dave can often be found absorbed in his labor of love: restoring a 1968 Pontiac Firebird convertible.
In his life and career, Dave espouses the importance of living life to the fullest. “You’re only here for a short time, so you might as well make the most of it,” he says. “Whatever you’re doing, whether in your professional or personal life, do it to the best of your ability, and don’t do anything halfway.”
When asked the first thing he’d do if he could retire tomorrow, Dave says he’d get to work on completing his Firebird restoration. “It’s been a slow process because I don’t find a lot of time to work on it, so if I retired tomorrow, I’d commit myself to finishing that car.”
<h8>Ask Me Anything!<h8>
Q: What was your first car? 
A: A ’68 Chevy Camaro.
Q: If you could drive any car, what would you drive? 
A: A Nissan GT-R.
Q: Who’s your favorite actor? 
A: Jack Nicholson.
Q: What’s one website you visit on a daily basis? 
A: There are actually a few, including Craigslist, Facebook and auto repair forums like Identifix.
Q: Music or talk radio? 
A: Music.
Q: What’s your favorite fruit? 
A: Watermelon.

Dave Proffer is owner of <a href=http://www.diamondcertified.org/report/empire-auto-repair-smog>Empire Auto Repair &amp; Smog</a>, a Diamond Certified company. He can be reached at (707) 219-8325 or by <a href=http://www.diamondcertified.org/contact/empire-auto-repair-smog>email</a>.

Dave Proffer: Going Ashore

ROHNERT PARK — You’re probably aware that your home’s furnace has a filter that keeps your indoor air relatively clean. But did you know there’s a similar situation in your car? In fact, your vehicle likely has not one but two types of air filters. First, there’s the cabin filter. Just as a furnace filter provides clean air for the home’s inhabitants, a cabin filter provides clean air for the vehicle’s driver and passengers to breathe. Since the air on the roads and freeways can be saturated with smog and other noxious elements, a cabin filter is a valuable asset for driver and passenger health. Cabin filters are typically located at the front of the vehicle interior (below the dashboard or behind the glove compartment) and can be removed and replaced as needed. Read more

<h1>Will Trbovich: Spirit of Sustainability</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
ROHNERT PARK – Most people don’t associate auto repair with environmental consciousness, but for Will Trbovich, owner of Acurit Auto Repair in Rohnert Park, a passion for sustaining the planet goes hand in hand with his overall business philosophy. “As a Green business, we believe in repairing and maintaining things rather than throwing them away,” he explains. “By servicing each vehicle with a mind to maximize its lifespan, we do our part to prevent waste.” Will’s environmental awareness also includes specializing in hybrid vehicles and taking part in AAA’s battery recycling program, but when he first became interested in auto repair at the age of 16, he was less concerned about his carbon footprint than about getting behind the wheel of his dream car.
Many mechanics have stories about their first loves, and Will’s is a classic rendition of “the one that got away.” “It was a ’49 Oldsmobile Coupe with a beautiful yellow paint job and a green top,” he remembers. “I had just bought it and was driving it to show off to my friends when it just stopped running.” After taking the bus home, Will immediately resold the car to his friend who was a mechanic. What happened next would alter the course of his life. “I brought my buddy to where the car was parked. He lifted the hood, told me to turn it over, popped off the distributor cap, made a quick adjustment and it started right up. As I watched him drive away with my car, I remember thinking to myself, ‘That’s what I want to do.’”
Will immediately set to pursuing his newfound goal in the most direct way he could—by seeking employment opportunities that would immerse him in the field. “I would take a job at any place that would teach me auto mechanics, even if it was just a gas station,” he says. “I told the owners upfront, ‘I’ll work for you, but you have to teach me how to repair cars or send me to school, because that’s what I want to do.’” Over the next several years, Will would receive a thorough industry education between the shop and the classroom before eventually opening Acurit Auto Repair in 1996.
Having spent the bulk of his life in an urban setting, Will says he has a special appreciation for the natural beauty, temperate weather and slower pace of Sonoma County. His love of the outdoors is evident in the way he spends his time outside of the shop. “My main hobby is golf—I play three or four times a week. I’m a private pilot as well, so I do a little flying on the weekends with friends and family.” Will also volunteers at the Bouverie Preserve in Glen Ellen, where he facilitates nature hikes for elementary school classes. “I love being out in nature and I love kids, so it’s a really good fit for me. We take them on three-hour hikes through the preserve and show them what things were like before humans moved in and paved everything.”
Will’s dedication to educating the younger generation is yet another offshoot of the emphasis on sustainability and environmental stewardship that marks his business practices. “There’s a quote from an old Indian chief that I read to the kids during the hikes which says, ‘We are the ones we have been waiting for,’” he shares. “It basically means it’s up to each of us as individuals to protect the environment. I think that really speaks to the way I try to live my life and run my business.”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: If you could time-travel, would you go to the past or the future? 
A: The future. I like the direction we’re going with technology, so I’d love to be able to travel more quickly and beam from one place to another—like, “Beam me up, Scottie,” you know?
Q: If you could drive any car, what would it be? 
A: I would love to drive an Acura NSX. I have a bit of a heavy foot, so I’ve learned to stay away from those fast sports cars, but maybe now I’m mature enough to not put the pedal to the metal.
Q: Ever read a book more than once? 
A: I think I&#8217;ve read Siddartha by Hermann Hesse four times. I&#8217;ve also read The Greatest Game Ever Played a couple of times.
Q: What’s your favorite winery? 
A: Either St. Francis or Kenwood Vineyards, because they both make good wines for affordable prices. I’m not into wines that are $65 a bottle.
Q: Who’s your favorite musician? 
A: Van Morrison.
Q: What’s your favorite smell? 
A: A bakery.

A glimpse into the life and career of Will Trbovich, owner of Acurit Auto Repair in Rohnert Park.

Will Trbovich is a 50-year veteran of the auto repair industry and the owner of Acurit Auto Repair, a Diamond Certified company since 2003. Contact Will at(707) 722-7934or by email.

Will Trbovich: Spirit of Sustainability

SUNNYVALE — Brakes are one of the most important components of any vehicle, which is why it’s vital to proactively maintain them. A crucial part of brake maintenance is being able to tell when they need to be replaced altogether. To take the guesswork out of brake replacement, some modern cars are equipped with brake pad wear sensors. Mounted on the brake pad and routed through the caliper, this sensor warns drivers if the pad is becoming excessively worn and needs to be replaced, usually by triggering a warning light on the vehicle’s dash. However, not all vehicles are equipped with such warning devices, which is why you should have your brakes inspected on a routine basis. Read more

<h1>Cliff Do: A Dynamic Development</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
SUNNYVALE – Cliff Do’s career as an auto repair professional started small, but it developed gradually as he worked his way up from the basics to the big leagues. “I’ve loved auto repair since I was a kid,” he says. “As a teenager, I worked on motorcycles and scooter bikes, and from there I moved to diesel and gasoline engines. I was never satisfied doing just one thing; rather, I wanted to learn how to work on all types of cars, from domestic to European and Japanese. So, that’s what I did!” To increase his knowledge and achieve his occupational goals, Cliff attended Skyline College in San Bruno and earned his ASE Master Certification. In 2000, he established A1 Performance Auto Repair in Sunnyvale, where customers continue to benefit from his extensive automotive expertise.
Originally from Vietnam, Cliff came to the San Francisco area in 1990, where he still lives today with his wife, Jennifer, and their children, Stephen and Tristan. Cliff loves living and working in the Bay Area, not least because certain aspects of it remind him of his home country. “The weather here is similar to where I’m from,” he says. “There’s also a great community—a real melting pot. The people are very friendly and there are great schools and other community resources.”
As a business owner and family man, Cliff’s daily schedule is usually packed, but he says he doesn’t mind too much. “Most of my time is spent running my shop and being with my family, but since I love what I do and I love my family, that’s not such a bad thing.” When Cliff does get some free time, he likes to take advantage of the lush Bay Area surroundings by fishing in the bay and hiking along the San Francisco skyline.
Looking back on his life and career, Cliff cites hard work and determination as essential ingredients of his success. “In order to better yourself and accomplish your goals, you have to work hard,” he says. “Coming from a very poor family, I had to take things into my own hands and apply myself in order to get where I am today.” However, while Cliff’s resolute mentality was instrumental in achieving his accomplishments, he also acknowledges the shaping influence of the people in his life, which is why he says after retirement he’d like to give back to his community. “I would get involved with doing some volunteer work and just help people in need. I would also take care of any needs that my own family may have.”
<h8>Ask Me Anything!<h8>
Q: What was your first car? 
A: A 1978 Toyota Celica. I bought it for $300 and it lasted four years.
Q: What’s your favorite movie genre? 
A: I like kung fu movies.
Q: What were you most known for in high school? 
A: Being a leader. I’m good at running things, organizing people and counseling them.
Q: Q: If you could drive any car, what would you drive? 
A: I like German cars, so any kind of BMW or Porsche would be nice.
Q: If you could live in the city or the country, which would you choose? 
A: I don’t want to live in the city, but I like being near it, so if I could live in the country about 5 or 10 miles outside of the city, that would be ideal.
Q: What’s your favorite season and why? 
A: Spring, because the weather is so fresh and clear and the flowers are in bloom.

Cliff Do: A Dynamic Development By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter SUNNYVALE – Cliff Do’s career as an auto repair professional started small, but it developed gradually as he worked his way up from the basics to the big leagues. “I’ve loved auto repair since I was a kid,” he says. “As a teenager, I worked on motorcycles and scooter bikes, and from there I moved to diesel and gasoline engines. I was never satisfied doing just one thing; rather, I wanted to learn how to work on all types of cars, from domestic to European and Japanese. So, that’s what I did!” To increase his knowledge and achieve his occupational goals, Read more

Cliff Do is a 26-year veteran of the auto repair industry and owner of <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/report/a1-performance-auto-repair">A1 Performance Auto Repair</a>, a Diamond Certified company since 2004. He can be reached at (408) 827-8949 or by <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/contact/a1-performance-auto-repair">email</a>.

Cliff Do: A Dynamic Development

MONTEREY — Even if you have no prior knowledge of auto maintenance, the first step to becoming acquainted with the inner workings of your vehicle is to simply lift the hood. You’ll be surprised how much you can learn by taking some time to examine the various fluids and filters found inside. Fluids To maintain ongoing functionality, your vehicle requires several different kinds of fluids. Some of the most important fluids include coolant (also known as antifreeze), which helps maintain the temperature of the water in the radiator and engine; transmission fluid, which lubricates the transmission’s moving parts; and engine oil, which lubricates the engine’s moving parts. Other important fluids to know are brake, Read more

<h1>Thuan Le: Automotive Autonomy</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
MONTEREY &mdash; Like many auto repair professionals, Thuan Le regards his chosen trade as a lifelong passion. “I’ve been working on cars since I was a teenager,” he says. “Everyone in my family works on cars, so it’s something I’ve always been around and naturally grew to love.” Thuan founded T &#038; T Auto Repair in 2008, and he says that while being a business owner has its challenges, the professional autonomy it offers is well worth it. “Prior to opening my business, I’d been working for someone else since the day I finished college. After a while, I got tired of that and decided it was time to do my own thing. Now that I have my own shop, I may be working a lot more, but I’m happy to be working for myself.”
Originally from Vietnam, Thuan immigrated to the United States in 1994, where he put down roots in the Bay Area. After 20 years in Monterey, where he resides today with his wife and two children, he considers the North Bay his adopted home. “Not only is it a beautiful place with great weather, the people who live around here are very nice as well,” he says.
Outside of work, Thuan enjoys activities such as flying remote-controlled airplanes, playing basketball with his son and going to the movies with his family. Often, however, he just likes to kick back and relax. “I work six days a week, so with only one day off, I have to be sure I take some time to recuperate,” he laughs.
When asked the first thing he’d do if he could retire tomorrow, Thuan says he’d do some long-deferred traveling. “I’d probably get an RV and go see the rest of the United States. After two decades in this country, I still haven’t been anywhere—I’ve been too busy working!”
<h8>Ask Me Anything!<h8>
Q: What was your first car? 
A: A 1987 Honda CR-X.
Q: What’s your favorite season? 
A: Summer, because I can go outside and fly my remote-controlled airplanes.
Q: If you could visit any city in the world, which would you choose? 
A: I’ve always wanted to visit Paris.
Q: What’s your favorite holiday? 
A: I love the whole holiday season, from Thanksgiving to New Year’s.
Q: What’s your favorite food? 
A: Steak.

Thuan Le: Automotive Autonomy By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter MONTEREY &mdash; Like many auto repair professionals, Thuan Le regards his chosen trade as a lifelong passion. “I’ve been working on cars since I was a teenager,” he says. “Everyone in my family works on cars, so it’s something I’ve always been around and naturally grew to love.” Thuan founded T &#038; T Auto Repair in 2008, and he says that while being a business owner has its challenges, the professional autonomy it offers is well worth it. “Prior to opening my business, I’d been working for someone else since the day I finished college. After a while, I got tired of that and decided it was time to do my own thing. Read more

Thuan Le is an 22-year veteran of the auto repair industry and owner of <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/report/t-t-auto-repair">T &amp; T Auto Repair</a>, a Diamond Certified company. He can be reached at (831) 498-9133 or by <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/contact/t-t-auto-repair">email</a>.

Thuan Le: Automotive Autonomy

ORINDA — One simple step you can take to maintain your vehicle is to check your tire pressure on a regular basis. Maintaining proper tire inflation will maximize your vehicle’s fuel economy and driving performance, as well as the lifespan of the tires themselves. Few vehicle owners realize that it’s common for a tire to lose as much as one pound of pressure per month. Changes in temperature can also affect tire pressure: For every 10 degrees of ambient temperature change, you may see up to one pound of difference in your tire pressure. That’s why it’s important to regularly check your tires and reinflate them as needed. Fortunately, modern technology makes it easy to keep tabs on your tire pressure. Read more

<h1>Ray Kunz: Back in Action</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
ORINDA — After a lengthy stint in the automotive industry, Ray Kunz switched gears and started his own business coaching agency. Years later, he found himself drawn back into the field where he made his start. “I’ve been in the auto industry all of my life,” he affirms. “I started as a technician when I was 17 and gradually climbed the ranks to service advisor, manager, and general manager. In 2001, I left the industry and started a business coaching company. One of my clients was Allen Pennebaker, the owner of Orinda Motors. After working with Allen for 15 years, he asked me to come work for him at Orinda Motors as his general manager. I didn’t want to quit my coaching business, but I did like the idea of getting back into automotive work. So, I hired a couple of coaches to take on the bulk of my clients and went to work for Allen four days a week. I’ve been doing that for the last few years. It’s a lot to juggle, but I enjoy both livelihoods very much.”
When asked about his favorite part of his job, Ray gives a twofold answer. “One thing I enjoy is the variety. Every day, there are new people to work with and new challenges to take on. The other thing I enjoy is customer satisfaction—I love the challenge of keeping our customers happy. It’s hard to make everybody happy all the time, but that’s something we really strive for at Orinda Motors.”
A resident of Elk Grove (where he lives with his wife, Jeanie), Ray says his favorite activity outside of work is camping. “Or ‘glamping,’ as my wife likes to call it,” he laughs. “We have a 40-foot travel trailer that gives us all the amenities of home on wheels. That’s probably the most fun we have, especially when we take the kids and grandkids with us.”
In regard to a professional philosophy, Ray says it’s all about having the right priorities. “I think it’s important to put customer happiness before money. That’s a rule I’ve lived by since I got into the managing side of the business. Too many companies put money ahead of everything else, but that’s not the way to be successful in business. Instead, you should focus on making sure the customers are taken care of. If you do that well, money will follow.”
When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Ray says he’d go on an epic road trip. “I would hook the trailer and go see the country. I’m not sure if my wife would be on board—she loves the home and our life here—but that’s something I’ve always wanted to do.”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: Are you an early bird or a night owl? 
A: An early bird.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go? 
A: Maldives.
Q: What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day? 
A: Stay inside and watch a movie.
Q: What kinds of movies do you like? 
A: I watch pretty much everything, but mostly horror and action movies.
Q: If you could time travel, would you go to the past or the future? 
A: Probably the future, just to see how everything turns out.

Ray Kunz: Back in Action By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter ORINDA — After a lengthy stint in the automotive industry, Ray Kunz switched gears and started his own business coaching agency. Years later, he found himself drawn back into the field where he made his start. “I’ve been in the auto industry all of my life,” he affirms. “I started as a technician when I was 17 and gradually climbed the ranks to service advisor, manager, and general manager. In 2001, I left the industry and started a business coaching company. One of my clients was Allen Pennebaker, the owner of Orinda Motors. After working with Allen for 15 years, Read more

Ray Kunz is general manager of Orinda Motors, Inc., a Diamond Certified company. He can be reached at (925) 709-4934 or by email.

Ray Kunz: Back in Action

CAMPBELL — Many aspects of auto maintenance are best left to a professional, but there are some things you can easily do yourself. Here are two do-it-yourself measures you can take to improve your driving experience: Tire pressure maintenance While regulating tire pressure is important for safety, performance and tire longevity, many drivers don’t know that it can also affect fuel economy. While vehicle manufacturers set recommended tire pressure at a minimum specification, raising the pressure slightly above this number can actually improve your car’s gas mileage. To maintain the air pressure in your tires, you’ll need a tire pressure gauge. Pocket gauges are simple and inexpensive, but a digital gauge offers improved reading accuracy. Read more

<h1>Bill Faulconer: A Foundation of Integrity</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
CAMPBELL – According to Bill Faulconer, his lengthy career in the automotive repair industry reflects a twofold passion. “My initial experience with auto repair was working on a Mustang with my father in our driveway, during which I discovered a fondness for working with my hands,” he remembers. “Later, when I became professionally involved with the industry, I developed a love for customer service. To this day, I’m not sure what I enjoy more: working on cars or helping people.”
After 30 years with Renson Automotive, Inc., Bill says he appreciates the long-term relationships he’s developed with his customers. “In addition to working on their vehicles, I enjoy getting to know my customers on a deeper level. There are some whose cars I’ve been servicing since I started here in 1985, and I’m even servicing some of their children’s cars, which is a really neat thing.”
Originally born in Roseville, Bill eventually settled in the Bay Area, where he says he has a great appreciation for the local versatility. “We have everything here. From the weather to the people to the natural beauty, there’s nothing that California doesn’t offer, and the Bay Area exhibits the heart of that.”
Outside of work, Bill spends a substantial portion of his time with family. “My wife and I have two grown children and four grandchildren—this June, we’re expecting our fifth,” he says. “We’re fortunate to have them all living in close proximity, which enables us to be a big part of their lives.” Bill also enjoys traveling and has recently picked up photography as a hobby. “My daughter is a professional photographer, so I try to keep up with her.”
In addition to family and hobbies, Bill makes it a point to stay actively involved in his local community. “I enjoy volunteering at local outreach centers,” he says, “and I also meet weekly with a group of people who are focused on helping the less fortunate.”
In both his professional and personal life, Bill emphasizes the importance of integrity. “There are a lot of auto shops that know how to repair cars, but what distinguishes mine is the fact that my integrity has never come into question,” he says. “Integrity is everything—it’s what my whole reputation and life is based upon.”
When asked what his future retirement might look like, Bill says he’d spend more time with his children, both at home and abroad. “My wife and I sponsor a couple of kids in Uganda, so in addition to spending more time with my grandchildren here, we’d love to have the opportunity to meet them.”
<h8>Ask Me Anything!<h8>
Q: Are you a dog person or a cat person? 
A: Definitely a dog person—we have two golden retrievers.
Q: What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day? 
A: Sit in front of a real wood-burning fire.
Q: Do you have any nicknames? 
A: When I was a child, my nickname was Bill-Bill. Since my dad and I share the same name, Mom got tired of calling one Bill and having us both answer.
Q: What’s your favorite holiday? 
A: Easter, because of my faith.
Q: If you could time-travel, would you go to the past or the future? 
A: The past. There were a lot of quality people who came before us, and I think we could gain a lot of insight from them.

Bill Faulconer: A Foundation of Integrity By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter CAMPBELL – According to Bill Faulconer, his lengthy career in the automotive repair industry reflects a twofold passion. “My initial experience with auto repair was working on a Mustang with my father in our driveway, during which I discovered a fondness for working with my hands,” he remembers. “Later, when I became professionally involved with the industry, I developed a love for customer service. To this day, I’m not sure what I enjoy more: working on cars or helping people.” After 30 years with Renson Automotive, Inc., Bill says he appreciates the long-term relationships he’s developed with his customers. Read more

Bill Faulconer is a 39-year veteran of the automotive industry and president of <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/report/renson-automotive-inc">Renson Automotive, Inc.</a>, a Diamond Certified company since 2002. He can be reached at (408) 840-3977 or by <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/contact/renson-automotive-inc">email</a>.

Bill Faulconer: A Foundation of Integrity

The “check engine” light may be the most commonly known dashboard warning light, but it’s also the most misunderstood, and for good reason: Not only can any number of issues cause it to come on, it can also signify anything from a minor issue to a major emergency. The most important thing to know about your “check engine” light is how to tell the difference between a minor concern and a major one. Fortunately, this is easy to do. If the light stays on steady, the issue isn’t an emergency; you can continue to drive your vehicle until you get a chance to bring it to a repair shop. If, on the other hand, Read more

<h1>Yann d&#8217;Argence: An Inquisitive Inspiration</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
SAN ANSELMO — When asked what led him to a career in auto repair, Yann d’Argence says it all stemmed from a youthful curiosity…one that got him in trouble on occasion. “As a kid, I had an obsession with taking things apart and seeing how they worked,” he remembers. “As I got older, this became concentrated on the family car. One time, while I was messing with the engine, I accidentally dropped a washer down the carburetor and damaged the valve. My mom said, ‘You broke it, you fix it,’ so I ended up doing a valve job. At 15, I had no idea what I was doing—all I had was a manual. I was basically flying by the seat of my pants, but I got it done!”
Not long after, Yann got his first job working at an auto shop in his hometown of Mill Valley. Following high school, he earned his AA in Automotive Technology from College of Marin and landed a job at a large auto repair facility. Over the next 13 years, Yann would increase his skills not only on the service floor, but also at the front desk and in the office. “Working on cars came naturally to me, but the nuances of running a business did not,” he explains. “Working for that big shop gave me valuable experience with managing a business and working with customers, which came in handy when I opened my own facility years later.”
Today, 20 years after founding All Autos, Inc., Yann says his favorite part of his job is helping customers get back on the road. “It feels good to take care of a customer’s needs, especially when they’re under a lot of pressure. I have a really loyal customer base, so it’s very rewarding to be there for them when they need me.”
A lifetime resident of Marin County, Yann spends the bulk of his free time outdoors. “I’m an avid mountain biker, and I also enjoy water skiing, snow skiing and range shooting.” Additionally, Yann likes hanging out with his son, Max, who works as a technician at All Autos, and his daughter, Alexa, who works as an interior designer.
In regard to his professional career, Yann espouses the importance of providing solutions for his customers’ problems. “In addition to resolving issues in a timely and cost-effective manner, we aim to fix them correctly the first time,” he affirms. “If it’s not done right the first time, we bend over backward to get it right the second time. At the end of the day, it’s all about getting our customers back on the road and making them happy with our service.”
When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Yann says he’d hit the road. “I’ve traveled in Europe a lot, but I haven’t seen that much of the United States. I’d love to rent an RV and drive across the country. I’d see it all: The Grand Canyon, the Great Lakes, the Teton Range—you name it.”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: What was your first car? 
A: A Fiat 128 sedan—the one I had to fix when I was 15.
Q: What’s your dream car? 
A: One of the new Teslas. They’re fast, they look great and they’re basically maintenance-free.
Q: What’s your favorite dessert? 
A: Crème brûlée.
Q: What were you most known for in high school? 
A: Standing up for the underdog. I was pretty much full-grown by the time I was 15, so I would protect the geeks from the bullies in exchange for help with my homework. It got me through high school!
Q: What’s your favorite style of music? 
A: ’60s and ’70s rock.
Q: If you could time travel, would you go to the past or the future? 
A: The past. I’d love to go back to the turn of the 20th century, when cars were first being built.

Yann d&#8217;Argence: An Inquisitive Inspiration By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter SAN ANSELMO — When asked what led him to a career in auto repair, Yann d’Argence says it all stemmed from a youthful curiosity…one that got him in trouble on occasion. “As a kid, I had an obsession with taking things apart and seeing how they worked,” he remembers. “As I got older, this became concentrated on the family car. One time, while I was messing with the engine, I accidentally dropped a washer down the carburetor and damaged the valve. My mom said, ‘You broke it, you fix it,’ so I ended up doing a valve job. At 15, Read more

Yann d'Argence is a 30-year veteran of the auto repair industry and owner of <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/report/all-autos-inc">All Autos, Inc.</a>, a Diamond Certified company since 2003. He can be reached at (415) 493-8926 or by <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/contact/all-autos-inc">email</a>.

Yann d&#8217;Argence: An Inquisitive Inspiration

DANVILLE — If your car’s air conditioning system has stopped working, you may have considered fixing it yourself. All you need to do is add some more refrigerant, right? The truth is, A/C system maintenance is more complex than you might realize, and by attempting it on your own, you could create bigger problems. First of all, most people don’t realize that refrigerant essentially lasts forever—it doesn’t go bad and it doesn’t dissipate over time. The only reason refrigerant would need to be recharged is if the A/C system has a leak that caused it to evaporate. Furthermore, a lack of refrigerant isn’t the only thing that can cause an A/C system to stop working. Read more

<h1>Kacey Copeland: Taking the Next Step</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
DANVILLE — For Kacey Copeland, starting an auto repair business was simply the logical next step in his professional career. “After several years in the automotive industry, I was considering what my next move would be,” he remembers. “By that point, I felt like I’d become an expert in my field and was just treading water, unsure what direction I should go in. Around that time, the owner of the shop I worked at had another location come available. He didn’t think anyone wanted to buy it, so he was just going to sell the property. To me, it was a sign that this was my next step—to have my own business. Not long after, I was the new owner of autoTech Blackhawk.”
As Kacey recounts, the seeds for his automotive career were planted two generations prior. “My grandfather started a Phillips 66 Service Station in 1966, just outside of Denver, Colorado, where I’m from. My dad started working there after he graduated high school, and I started when I was eight years old. It was a full-service gas station, so when a customer drove up, I’d walk out, pump their gas, check their tires and oil, and wash the windows. Learning how to interact with customers at a young age was definitely beneficial for the development of my social skills, which is something I appreciate looking back.” Following high school, Kacey attended Universal Technical Institute in Phoenix, Arizona, where he earned his professional certification. A few years later, he relocated to California.
Today, Kacey says his favorite part of his job is the customer interaction. “When a customer comes in to my shop, it’s usually on the worst day of their year—their radiator just popped, they have a car full of kids and they need to be somewhere 10 minutes ago. I enjoy putting out the fire and reassuring them that everything will be taken care of. If they need to be somewhere, I’ll often give them a ride. Basically, I try to take someone’s worst day and turn it around into something positive.”
A resident of Contra Costa County (where he lives with his wife, Catherine), Kacey spends his time outside of work on a variety of pastimes. “Catherine and I enjoy going hiking and backpacking at places like Yosemite National Park,” he details. “We also love world travel—in recent years, we’ve been to Belize, New Zealand and Canada.” Additionally, Kacey enjoys working with wood and doing small home remodeling projects.
In regard to a professional philosophy, Kacey espouses the importance of honesty. “I like to sleep, and in order to sleep, I need to do everything with honesty and integrity,” he explains. “Often, the news I have to give my customers isn’t easy for them to receive. Believe me, it’s no fun to watch someone’s face when they realize their car needs X amount of dollars of repair work. Nevertheless, I give them the information because they need to know the reality of the situation.”
When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Kacey says he’d head to the hills. “I would probably move back to Colorado and live in the mountains. Right now, Catherine and I live in a tiny house, so it would be pretty easy to relocate.”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: What’s your favorite local restaurant? 
A: Burma! Burma! in Dublin.
Q: What’s your favorite TV show?
A: “Suits.”
Q: What were you most known for in high school?
A: I was the kid with the big, white Jeep.
Q: Do you collect anything?
A: I used to collect shot glasses from around the world, but when we moved into a tiny house, I whittled down my collection from about 50 to four.
Q: What kinds of music do you like?
A: I like Mexican and Indian music.

A glimpse into the life and career of Kacey Copeland, owner of autoTech Blackhawk.

Kacey Copeland is owner of autoTech Blackhawk, a Diamond Certified company. He can be reached at (925) 388-6924 or by email.

Kacey Copeland: Taking the Next Step

ANTIOCH —As automotive technology continues to evolve, vehicle maintenance needs are changing as well. One of the biggest examples of this is oil change intervals. For many years, the standard oil change interval was 3,000 miles, but the past decade has seen this interval stretch to as many as 10,000 miles for newer vehicles. This is largely due to advancements in synthetic oil technology, as well as the integration of onboard monitoring that allows car owners to keep tabs on their oil levels and quality without opening the hood. While vehicle owners will be happy to know they don’t need to change their oil as often, this extended interval brings an unintended consequence. Read more

<h1>Eric Zugnoni: A Student of the Industry</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
ANTIOCH — Most auto mechanics attend ongoing educational courses, but few can be classified as true students of the industry. Eric Zugnoni falls into this classification, and his educational enthusiasm is a big part of what propelled him to professional success. “During my early years as a technician, I attended a lot of industry-related classes,” he says. “I heard about a teacher in Concord who was highly recommended, so I started attending his classes on topics like advanced drivability and emissions. He became a mentor to me, and when I was laid off by Bank of America, he hired me to help him teach, which I did for about 10 years. Eventually, I decided it was time to have my own auto repair shop. I started out in a little gas station shop on 8th Street in Antioch, and I’ve since moved to our current location at NAPA Auto Parts in Antioch.”
Today, as owner of Antioch Napa Auto Care, Eric says his favorite parts of his job are diagnosing problems and interacting with customers. “After all these years, I still enjoy working on cars, although I don’t get to do it as often as I used to. I’m especially interested in diagnostics, so whenever I get a chance to flex that muscle, I’m a happy guy. My other favorite thing is dealing with customers. I really enjoy building and fostering relationships with customers and making them feel good about bringing their vehicles here.”
A resident of Antioch (where he lives with his wife and business partner, Jodi), Eric spends his time outside of work on a variety of pastimes. “I’m an avid fisherman, so I enjoy going kayak fishing at local lakes and deep sea fishing in my boat. I’m also a knife collector and master sharpener, and I like doing auto detailing in my spare time.” When he’s not engaged in one of his hobbies, Eric likes spending time with his and Jodi’s two adult children and one grandchild.
In regard to a professional philosophy, Eric espouses the value of communication. “I often get complimented by customers for my honesty and communication,” he says. “They really appreciate getting an explanation for why certain work needs to be done on their vehicles. A lot of auto shops don’t do this, which can leave customers wondering if the work was really necessary. So, we like to put their minds at ease by explaining what needs to be done and why.”
When asked what his life might look like if he were to retire tomorrow, Eric says he’d spend more time enjoying his hobbies and family. “I’d definitely go fishing more often. Jodi and I both love boating and fishing, so we’re hoping to retire in an area that’s near water. I’d also be interested in starting a small car detailing business, and of course, I would spend more time with family.”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: What’s your favorite sports team?
A: The San Francisco Giants.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
A: New Zealand.
Q: Coffee or tea?
A: Coffee.
Q: What’s your favorite snack?
A: Peanut butter cookies.
Q: What were you most known for in high school?
A: I was voted the nicest guy in my class.

Eric Zugnoni: A Student of the Industry By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter ANTIOCH — Most auto mechanics attend ongoing educational courses, but few can be classified as true students of the industry. Eric Zugnoni falls into this classification, and his educational enthusiasm is a big part of what propelled him to professional success. “During my early years as a technician, I attended a lot of industry-related classes,” he says. “I heard about a teacher in Concord who was highly recommended, so I started attending his classes on topics like advanced drivability and emissions. He became a mentor to me, and when I was laid off by Bank of America, Read more

Eric Zugnoni is owner of Antioch Napa Auto Care, a Diamond Certified company. He can be reached at (925) 257-4631 or by email.

Eric Zugnoni: A Student of the Industry

ANTIOCH — Much like a “quick stop” oil change, a transmission flush provides a fast and affordable means of maintaining a vital vehicle component. However, upon closer inspection, this convenient service may not be as good an idea as it appears. The problem with a transmission flush is it only addresses the fluid itself, which means components like the filter and gasket are ignored. While the fluid gets changed, any debris buildup inside the transmission case gets left behind, most of which becomes trapped in the filter. Over time, if the filter becomes plugged up with debris, it can result in a worse issue with the transmission than existed previously. For this reason, Read more

<h1>Chester Kniss: A Mechanical Mind</h1>
<h6>By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter</h6>
ANTIOCH — When asked how he got involved in the auto repair field, Chester Kniss simply replies that he’s always been mechanically minded. “I’ve been interested in cars since I was a little boy, so I picked things up pretty naturally,” he says. “At 10 years old, I was able to accurately diagnose car problems, and by age 15, I’d built my first transmission.” After high school, Chester went directly into the automotive industry, where he started out working on diesel trucks. In 1994, he was hired at Delta Transmission, and 12 years later, he purchased the business from the owner.
Today, Chester says he still finds satisfaction in pursuing his lifelong livelihood. “I just enjoy working on cars. At this point, almost every aspect of my life involves cars, so I guess it’s become a part of who I am.”
A lifetime resident of the East Bay, Chester resides in Oakley with his wife, Beverly, and their two children. Outside of work, he engages in a variety of automotive-centered activities. “I’ve been dirt track racing competitively since 1994 and continue to do that today,” he says. “My wife grew up around racing, so we both love it, and now our son races as well.” When asked what he does to relax in between races, his response is hardly surprising: “Work on cars.”
In regard to a professional philosophy, Chester espouses the importance of honesty. “Besides understanding how to do the job itself, the most important part of running a business is being honest with your customers,” he affirms. “When you’re honest and fair, customers will return, which is the lifeblood of any business—especially one like ours, where all the advertising is word-of-mouth.”
When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Chester says he’d head back to the track. “I’d probably go racing. Right now, all the top-notch guys in my racing class are at the Super Nationals in Boone, Iowa, so I’d head up and watch that. Other than racing, I wouldn’t mind taking a trip to Hawaii.”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: What was your first car? 
A: A 1972 Dodge Charger.
Q: What’s your dream car? 
A: Pretty much any ’60s Ford or Dodge.
Q: Do you collect anything? 
A: Cars and car parts.
Q: What kinds of movies do you like? 
A: I like “The Fast and the Furious” series.
Q: Are you an early bird or a night owl? 
A: Both. I’m up early and I go to bed late.

Chester Kniss: A Mechanical Mind By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter ANTIOCH — When asked how he got involved in the auto repair field, Chester Kniss simply replies that he’s always been mechanically minded. “I’ve been interested in cars since I was a little boy, so I picked things up pretty naturally,” he says. “At 10 years old, I was able to accurately diagnose car problems, and by age 15, I’d built my first transmission.” After high school, Chester went directly into the automotive industry, where he started out working on diesel trucks. In 1994, he was hired at Delta Transmission, and 12 years later, he purchased the business from the owner. Read more

Chester Kniss is a lifetime veteran of the automotive industry and owner of <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/report/delta-transmission">Delta Transmission</a>, a Diamond Certified company since 2007. He can be reached at (925) 709-4984 or by <a href="http://www.diamondcertified.org/contact/delta-transmission">email</a>.

Chester Kniss: A Mechanical Mind

When you need advice on car repair or general auto maintenance, this guide has you covered.

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Upon receiving an unexpected car repair bill, you might start wondering if it’s time to replace your current vehicle for something newer that requires less maintenance. However, while it’s natural to react this way to an unforeseen financial burden, it’s important to make such a decision based on information, not emotion.
The tricky thing about car maintenance costs is the irregularity with which they occur. You can go a year without paying for anything other than oil changes, and then out of the blue, you’re hit with an $800 repair bill. The problem is, this doesn’t provide an accurate “big picture” of what vehicle maintenance is actually costing you over the long term. In all likelihood, it’s probably a lot less than what it seems at the moment when you receive that $800 bill.
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<h2>Calculating the True Cost of Car Maintenance</h2>
To figure out the actual long-term cost of maintaining your car, you’ll need to do some calculation. First, look over your maintenance and repair invoices for the last five to 10 years and tally up how much you’ve spent. Of course, unless you keep a file of such records, you may not have access to all this information. If you’ve been going to the same mechanic for the past five to 10 years, you can ask them to help you track down past invoices and figure out the total you’ve spent over that time period. Otherwise, you’ll have to go from memory.
Once you’ve figured out the total you’ve spent on repairs and maintenance, break this figure down into an average monthly cost. You may be surprised to find that your maintenance expenses weren’t as high as you thought. On the other hand, expectations about what constitutes “high” or “low” expenses can vary from person to person. That’s why it’s worth going a bit further to compare the cost of buying a new vehicle to that of maintaining an older one.
Let’s simulate a side-by-side comparison of two scenarios: buying a new car every 10 years versus keeping the same car for 20 years. In this comparison, we’ll assume that no major maintenance-related repairs will be needed during each car’s first five years and the monthly cost of maintenance during the subsequent years averages out to $100 per month.
&nbsp;
<h3>Buy a new car every 10 years</h3>
Two $25,000 cars: $50,000 
Interest (estimated): $4,000 
Repairs (5 years per car = 10 years @ $100/mo): $10,000 
Total: $64,000
<h3>Keep your car for 20 years</h3>
One $25,000 car: $25,000 
Interest (estimated): $2,000 
Repairs (15 years @ $100/mo): $15,000 
Total: $42,000
According to this model, by keeping the same car for an additional 10 years, you would save approximately $22,000! Of course, while simulations are helpful, reality is often another story, so this model should be taken with a grain of salt. Additionally, maintenance costs tend to vary among different car makes and models. For example, maintaining a 15-year-old Japanese car typically breaks down to $75 to $125 per month, versus $150 to $200 per month for a similarly aged Audi or Mercedes-Benz. Remember, this cost difference aligns with the difference in purchase price: whereas a new Toyota Camry costs about $25,000, a new Audi A4 is priced at just below $40,000.
If you still think the price of maintaining your vehicle seems high, consider that the average cost of owning a new vehicle is around $300 a month when you factor in payments. Plus, when you buy a new vehicle, you’ll have to pay sales tax, and your insurance and registration fees will usually increase. In contrast, as long as your current vehicle’s engine is OK and you have a good mechanic, you probably won’t overspend on maintenance.
<a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/bay-area-auto-repair/>Find a Diamond Certified auto repair shop in your area</a>

Fed up with car repair bills? Before investing in a replacement vehicle, find out how much it's actually costing to maintain your current one over time. Photo: Automotive Excellence ©2020

James Florence

Upon receiving an unexpected car repair bill, you might start wondering if it’s time to replace your current vehicle for something newer that requires less maintenance. However, while it’s natural to react this way to an unforeseen financial burden, it’s important to make such a decision based on information, not emotion.The tricky thing about car maintenance costs is the irregularity with which they occur. You can go a year without paying for anything other than oil changes, and then out of the

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