Grand Rapids Auto Repair

  When it comes to car repairs, you have a few options. You can take your car to the dealership, or you can go to an independent auto shop near you.   Both of these options have pros and cons, so it can be challenging to decide which is the best choice for you. Here is a breakdown of the pros and cons of taking your car to a dealership or an independent auto shop near you: Dealership Pros: The technicians at the dealership are trained in how to repair cars. The dealership has access to all of the latest parts and technology. You can usually get a loaner car while your vehicle is being repaired. Many dealerships will give you a warranty on repairs or parts. Dealership Cons: The dealership can be more expensive than an independent auto shop near you. Sometimes the service at a dealership can take longer for two reasons: They may only have one technician, and they may want to give their customers the loaner car, which mea ... read more

Hi Again! We've talked about making sure that your vehicle is road trip ready, but how about your family?  Depending on how long the trip is and how old your kids are this can look so different. Road trips definitely changed for us over the years and for the better! Here are some of the tips I have picked up over the years of 12+ hour trips.    We like to make sure the kids are excited about the trip.  We talk about the states we'll go through and the things we'll see.   As the trip we make is one we make yearly, we also talk about landmarks (tunnels in WV and VA are a hit)  and favorite parks to stop at and run!  As our kids have gotten older we keep them involved in where we are, what our driving goals for the day are (we usually stop for one night on the way there and back), walking the dog - because yes, we bring our dog in our prius with us, and telling us when they're done in the car for the day.  O ... read more

Eric was recently interviewed on WZZM 13 here in Grand Rapids about making sure a vehicle is ready for fall and the winter months. https://www.wzzm13.com/article/money/cars/october-is-fall-car-care-month-experts-offer-tips-to-keep-you-on-the-road/69-483076568 Main points of the interview: Get your vehicle a safety inspection ASAP. The reason Eric urges you to do this right away is in case there is a list of safety items that needs to be addressed. We can help you prioritize the repairs needed and by the time snow starts falling you can be ready to go! Tires. They are the number one item to keep your car or truck on the road. Reliable tires are necessary to make sure you can safely stop, especially in inclement weather. Check the coolant (along with other fluids). Certainly we don’t want any engine to ever freeze. It is ... read more

WYOMING, Michigan – June 28, 2017 — Eric Carlson, owner of Ervine's Auto Repair and Grand Rapids Hybrid, has been named the NAPA/ASE Technician of the Year for 2017. Eric was selected from more than 300 NAPA Auto Care centers in the West Michigan region for the 5th time (2010, 2011, 2013, 2016, 2017). The Technician of the Year award is presented annually by NAPA Auto Parts and ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) to an individual in the automotive repair and maintenance industry who meets a list of detailed requirements. Carlson was selected for demonstrating superior technical skills and business practices, showing a commitment to customer service and training, supporting his business' community and demonstrating outstanding service to the industry. About Eric Carlson Carlson has 40 years of experience in the automotive repair and maintenance industry, all of which have been spent in the Grand Rapids area. He and his wife, Jami ... read more