(4/3/07) If you're used to mechanics' waiting areas that look and feel like extensions of the garage areas, you're in for a surprise.
The new Auto Express on South East Street – at the corner of Route 9 – has the sort of waiting room you might expect at a really nice hair salon, with tile floors, light wood, fancy chairs, a big flat screen TV and wireless internet. Not your typical oil change joint.
And that's no accident. Amir Mikhchi, who opened the business two weeks ago, said “We're trying to offer something people haven't experienced before – first class service.”
That service includes full-service oil changes with premium synthetic blend motor oil for $29.95, a price he said is lower than is typically charged for the synthetic blends.
Auto Express will also do light automotive service such as changing serpentine belts, batteries, wiper blades and antifreeze. And Manager Kelly Hughes said that in a few months, they plan to expand their service offerings to include tune-ups and brake work.
Their other main focus is State inspections, which will begin at the end of this week, with the benefit of Auto Express' extended service hours. The shop is open seven days a week: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; Tuesdays and Thursdays 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.; Saturdays 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; and Sundays 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. According to Mikhchi and Hughes, there hasn't been any place in Amherst providing inspections during extended hours.
Hughes said the shop also provides CHECKPOINT service, which is an exterior inspection with a photograph, required by some insurance companies.
Mikhchi, who also owns the nearby Reliance Auto used car business, said the shop will provide fast, reliable, friendly service. “We want people to feel comfortable,” he said, “not feel pressured.”
Auto Express has six service bays, two for inspections and four for oil changes. No appointments are necessary. The entrance to Auto Express is on South East Street, and it does not connect to the Cumberland Farms parking lot. For more information, call 253-0056.
-- Stephanie O'Keeffe
Comments
Oh my God! Economic development in the Peoples Republic. what's next: A hardware store replacing a book store or bank?
Posted by: Larry Kelley | April 3, 2007 11:21 PM
Is this a national chain franchise or completely local? While I support Economic Development, my preference is for locals whenever possible, and I worry about the potential impact on the folks we've been dealing with for years (e.g., Amherst Tire, Pelham Auto, Ren's, etc.)
Posted by: Jeff | April 4, 2007 09:00 AM
Auto Express is not a chain; it is an independent local business.
Posted by: Stephanie O'Keeffe | April 4, 2007 09:28 AM
I brought my car in for an oil change, and thier service was outstanding. The atmoshpere inside is very welcoming, and they were very professional with my vehicle. Since I knew they were not out to get my car done as fast as possible, I knew no mistakes were going to be made. In the past I have had problems with places like Jiffy Lube, ie, loose oil filter. Overall I was very impressed with the service and quality they provide.
Posted by: Andrew | April 4, 2007 09:54 AM
Aww, we just went to Jiffy Lube the other day! Wish I'd known about this then.
Posted by: Lady Martha | April 4, 2007 02:13 PM
well we hope that u will consider us in the future Lady martha. We offer services that the jiffy lube does not such as tire rotation and Batteries, as well as everything that the jiffy lube offers such as serpine belts, Front and rear differntial service, and full synthetic oil so come on down.
Posted by: auto express | April 4, 2007 02:25 PM
Just wanted to say that I like the looks of the waiting area, it looks so inviting with it being so clean, bright, and big. I've been to other places and they are dirty and univiting. I don't want to sit on the chairs or touch anything, because I don't want grease or oil on myself. I really like the fact that you have wireless internet, so that I can do work while waiting for my car to be serviced. I will definately be coming to your facility.
Posted by: P.J. | April 4, 2007 11:20 PM
I loved it@!
Posted by: Joe Cerrear | August 23, 2009 10:46 AM
Great,
Lot's of congrats for your new business, hope you develop it all over the country....
Posted by: Ghasem | September 4, 2009 04:33 PM
Wish you success.
Posted by: Hassan | December 13, 2009 11:04 AM