Lexington, KY - Word of mouth is an important ally in the world of family-owned and -operated companies — especially for those in the auto repair business, like Lexington’s Bluegrass Precision Auto, LLC.
Owned and operated by Mike Black and his team of mechanics, this auto care company provides a wide variety of auto services for both foreign and domestic vehicles. Located just off of Winchester Road at 707 National Ave., Bluegrass Precision Auto has been operating comfortably just out of sight to many for more than four years. However, those who choose it for their auto care needs know it well.
“While we often get new customers, we strive [to have] a majority of repeat customers,” Black said. “Ninety percent of our customer base is return business.”
James Davis is one of those repeat customers. He was originally directed to Bluegrass Precision upon the recommendation of a friend who had transmission work performed at the shop.
“Mike is an excellent mechanic. His shop does quality work in a reasonable of amount time and at an affordable price,” Davis said. “His approach is professional, as well as his attention to detail.”
Another aspect of the business that Black emphasizes is the reliability of the company’s estimates, which he described as “written in stone.” Black said his repeat clients are looking for both adherence to estimated costs and quality work completed in a timely manner.
With upward of 26 years’ experience in auto care, Bluegrass Precision Auto maintains ASE Certification, and the business is a highly rated member of the Better Business Bureau, boasting an “A” on their grading scale. Black comes from a background as mechanic, originally working at First Stop Auto Care. He has since integrated the experience he gained there into the creation of his own successful enterprise.
Truly a one-stop shop, Precision Auto offers auto services that encompass most any customer’s needs. Regular services include heat and air-conditioning repair, brake work, general tune-ups, oil changes, engine/transmission replacement services and the installation of new and used tires. Towing is offered, and all existing vehicle warranties are honored.
For the convenience of his customers, Black also offers many special packages, such as road trip specials, free brake inspection and free vehicle check-up when a check engine light appears. Precision Auto also conducts pre-buy inspections that can allow customers to gauge the quality of upcoming vehicle purchases.
Black doesn’t see the smaller size of his shop as an obstacle for his business.
“The service here is as good as anywhere,” Black said. “Our overhead is low, and because of that, we are able to offer service that is just as good as any of the bigger auto shops.”
The approach at Bluegrass Precision Auto is a meat-and-potatoes methodology with less dependence on advertising and detailed marketing and more focus on customer satisfaction, according to Black. Aside from banners hanging on the shop, there is nothing fancy to color the surroundings. No bells and whistles are required here, just an old-fashioned approach to getting the job done and leaving customers satisfied — and hopefully, willing to come back.