AUTOINC. ONLINE - Shop Profile

Seated (l to r) are owner Jonathan Vickery, Sierra the wonder dog and Patricia Vickery, service manager. Standing (l to r) are Tim Blaes, parts manager; Mike Roberson, customer service representative; and techs, John Daniels, Mike Hanson, Francisco Ortega, Jeff Ness and Bruce Swader.

In 1981, Jonathan Vickery worked in the telecommunications industry. Due to a breakup of the company for which he was working, Vickery retired from that industry and entered the automotive repair industry.

He founded Bavarian Auto in Chattanooga, Tenn., in a mini-warehouse encompassing just 600 square feet. The business, which specializes in European and Asian models, quickly outgrew the warehouse.

Bavarian Auto's current location was custom-designed and built for the efficient service and repair of its customers' vehicles. The facility has 14,000 square feet, 11 lifts and employs a staff of nine. Bavarian Auto is located in an industrial park and sits on two acres. “From the moment a customer drives up, they see what sets us apart from other repair facilities. The pride we take in our work is unmistakable and is reflected in everything from our comfortable waiting room to our spotless workshop,” said Vickery.

Bavarian Auto strives for quality and attention to detail. Customer contact and availability are important aspects of the success of the business. “Because we are a family-owned and operated shop, customers can find me or my wife, Tricia, behind the counter working to deliver top-notch service,” said Vickery.

He also believes that his employees should enjoy what they do. One of the business' principles is to smile and have fun.

Vickery's primary role in the business is general manager. Tricia performs the duties and responsibilities of office manager and Vickery said she is the most important person in the company.

Jeff Ness is a certified Toyota master technician, and is master certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). He is also certified in advanced engine systems. Mike Hansen is factory trained, BMW certified and an ASE master certified technician.

Bruce Swader is a factory-trained Honda master certified and ASE master certified technician. John Daniels is an ASE master certified technician specializing in German-made vehicles. Francisco Ortego is an apprentice technician. Tim Blaes oversees the parts department as parts manager. Mike Roberson works in the parts department.

Sierra is the resident “Top Dog” of Bavarian Auto. He is an eight-year-old yellow Lab and can be found in and around the shop greeting customers.

Ongoing training and education are key elements of the Bavarian Auto commitment to quality service. Vickery holds a bachelor of science degree from the University of Alabama and a master's in business administration from the University of Louisville. He is an ASE master certified technician and earned his Accredited Automotive Manager (AAM) designation from the Automotive Management Institute (AMI) in 2000.

According to Vickery, Bavarian Auto is the first Bosch Service Center in the state, and its staff is highly qualified and trained to perform repairs on European and Asian models. The staff regularly attends technical training courses to stay abreast of the latest technology.

Bavarian Auto's main objective is to provide 100 percent customer satisfaction. This is achieved through the various services it offers. Bavarian Auto can perform required maintenance and service on new cars, and in some cases, can conduct repairs for extended service agreements and warranties. “In addition, we offer a 12-month, 12,000 miles warranty on parts and labor, as well as free shuttle service within the area,” said Vickery.

The success of any business is usually determined by its business planning and its willingness to adapt to changing markets and other unforeseen events. Bavarian Auto has taken steps to ensure its continued success through its marketing approach, community and industry involvement, as well as holding itself to its vision of specializing in quality service.

The marketing of the business is done through traditional methods. Vickery places ads in the Yellow Pages and newspaper. He also sends direct mail pieces and has a presence on the Internet through a Web site.

Community participation is also an intangible way the business increases its customer base. It is very important to Vickery and his staff to be a part of the community it serves. “We are involved with the Boy Scouts of America, the United Way and Habitat for Humanity,” said Vickery.

Industry involvement is achieved by attending numerous conferences and conventions, as well as membership in ASA. Vickery originally joined ASA in 1992 to learn how to manage the business more effectively. He continues his membership because he loves “to be around 'car guys.'” Vickery's opinion is that it is important and useful to network with fellow business owners. “The single most important action I have taken in the last 10 years regarding my business was getting involved with my 20-Group, Service Center Scholars. It has been the driving force behind our success and prosperity,” said Vickery.

Through a dedicated and professional staff, Bavarian Auto has established a solid foundation for future growth. Vickery's vision for the future is to significantly increase business volume over the next few years.

Shop Stats

Name: Bavarian Auto
Location: Chattanooga, Tenn.
Square Footage: 14,000
No. of Employees: 9
Web Site: www.bavarian-auto.com
What do you like best about your job?:“ Working with our employees in their pursuit of fixing cars.” - Jonathan Vickery, AAM

Member Business Takes Pride in Automotive Service

Shop Stats