Motor skills: Autoheim runs on a high-octane blend of referrals, reliability and reputation

Sandra Shrader

Special to the Village News

In the world of cars, it’s often said that performance is everything. But in the world of car service and repairs, Autoheim owner Danny Covo believes that performance consists of more than engine revolutions and corner turns.

Performance is measured by customer relationships, reliability, and a solid reputation for automotive repairs, said Covo, who, along with his son Mike Covo, operates Autoheim Service and Repairs, located at 1236 S. Main Avenue in Fallbrook.

"Our customers know that we take pride in our work, and they know that we use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools," he said. "And they know that we are not a quick-service shop because we thoroughly check everything from bumper to bumper."

Autoheim specializes in servicing European vehicles made by luxury auto manufacturers that include Audi, BMW, Jaguar, Mercedes Benz, Land Rover and Range Rover, Porsche, Saab, Mini Cooper, Volkswagen, and Volvo. Service and repair is also available for Acura, Lexus and Infinity, as well as for Ford and other domestic autos.

In this digital age, diagnostic software is now built into automobiles. That software interfaces with hundreds of sensors which monitor engine functions and various activities and parts of the car, including coolant temperatures, oil pressure, exhaust emissions, and other functions ranging from climate control systems to tail light operations. High-end cars also have additional "body computers" to control luxury features such as heated seats, remote starts, and ways to minimize discomfort caused by going over bumps in the road.

Auto service and repair businesses use scanner tools to read the diagnostic software, and because Autoheim services so many different brands of European, Asian and domestic vehicles, it owns a notable selection of scanners, some of which cost tens of thousands of dollars, said Covo.

"We don’t skimp on our equipment, and we utilize factory support for our diagnostics," he said, adding that Autoheim also uses Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certified technicians as well as OEM (original equipment from the manufacturer) or the equivalent. The father-son team is continually updating their education about the latest technology in auto repairs, including obtaining specialized certifications usually found only at dealerships.

Autoheim was established in Fallbrook in 1982. Covo bought the well-regarded business in 2007, and the father-son team has maintained Autoheim’s reputation for expertise and proactive recommendations for repairs.

In addition to computer diagnostics, the automotive center offers services that include air conditioning, heating, brake/ABS services, oil changes, fuel injection, engine, electrical, suspension, differentials, and transmissions. Autoheim also accepts extended warranties.

Because the service center is located between the Temecula Valley and Escondido where major auto dealers are located, its ability to offer factory-scheduled maintenance, factory-recommended services and warranty book validations generates a steady business of repeat customers from this area and with other customers who come from as far away as Oceanside and Orange County.

It’s the repeat business of which Covo, who first started working on cars 50 years ago, is the proudest.

"In this business, it’s all about how professional service and repairs create great relationships with our customers," he said.

"That is the key to everything."

Autoheim is located at 1236 S. Main Ave., Fallbrook. For more information, call (760) 728-2338 or visit autoheimrepair.com.