As temperatures rise, your car’s already warm engine gets even hotter. That’s why it’s important, more than ever, to ensure your car is well-maintained. Here in the Valley of the Sun, being prepared for a Phoenix Summer is key. While other areas of the country may see temperatures in the high 90s, Arizona summer highs can reach up to 120 degrees. In fact, Arizona summer high temperatures average about 105 degrees daily.
You can trust the Technicians at Sun Devil Auto to perform the necessary maintenance on your vehicle including the vital cooling system, as well as your engine, transmission, and fuel system to ensure your car is able to endure the long summer months. Wayne Hendrix, the Store Manager of our auto center in Tempe, is your partner in keeping your car on the road all through the year. Wayne’s team of highly-skilled ASE Certified Technicians are proud to offer quality auto care at a price less than what you’d find at the dealer.
Sun Devil Auto in Tempe is the automotive repair and maintenance center with automotive experts that are on your side. We’re your advocate on all things automotive from maintenance to repairs and everything in between. We have answers to all your questions and we’re always happy to help make sure your vehicle continues to function the way you need it to. Get to know Wayne and understand why you should choose Sun Devil Auto located on the North East corner of McClintock and Elliot for all your automotive needs.
How long have you been in the automotive repair industry?
In essence, I have been around automotive repair my entire adult life. My first car was a 1965 Mustang that had been sitting for several years. I spent two years after school and on weekends getting the vehicle road-worthy. I have also managed auto parts supply stores and a couple of race teams (rally and off-road) before eventually making my way into managing repair facilities.
What’s your favorite auto repair to complete?
One that solves a difficult problem and ultimately makes the customer happy!
What’s your favorite type of vehicle to make repairs on?
One where the parts are available and easily attainable. It’s frustrating to both us, and the customer, knowing that the problem can be easily solved, but the part needed is not available.
What are the qualities a Sun Devil Auto technician possesses?
Our Technicians bring a lot to the table including patience, persistence, attention to detail, and most of all, pride in workmanship.
What type of training do your technicians need to complete? What’s included in this training?
Our technicians receive training in all facets of automotive repair including hybrid systems, on-board diagnostics, and air conditioning systems for all makes and models. Training includes safety protocols, technical updates, and troubleshooting techniques.
What’s the most commonly asked question you get about automotive repair?
“Is the repair being recommended necessary?” Sometimes our technicians find repairs that are minor that need to be watched, while others are more pressing and should be performed sooner rather than later. Our team wants to keep you on the road and avoid the frustration of an unexpected breakdown.
If you could dismiss one myth about automotive maintenance/repair, what would that be?
The myth that all automotive repair facilities are out to swindle the consumer by recommending unnecessary repairs and that all staff in the automotive industry are untrustworthy salespeople. Sure, there are some bad apples out there, just like any other industry. Yet, Sun Devil Auto takes great pride in maintaining their reputation of honesty and integrity and has been for over 40 years. I’m proud to be part of that ideology.
What is your favorite part of the job? Your favorite part about working for Sun Devil Auto?
I love the people we get to interact with. A lot of times, our first interaction with customers is when they are distraught because their vehicle is broken, and we finish our interaction with them as happy, satisfied customers.
What’s the number one tip you would provide to car owners about maintaining their vehicle?
Two things; first, take care of scheduled maintenance on all the fluid systems in your car. Secondly, don’t put-off small repairs or relatively inexpensive issues can escalate into large, expensive repairs very quickly.
Since Arizona is considered a severe climate, due to the extended high temperatures and dusty climates, routine maintenance, on a more frequent basis, is a necessity compared to other areas of the country. Maintenance ensures your vehicle has clean, fresh fluids circulating throughout the engine and transmission to keep cool and avoid overheating. Don’t let the heat of the summer get you and your car all steamed up, instead, give Sun Devil Auto at 1824 E. Elliot Rd. a call! Wayne and his friendly staff are ready to answer your questions and help in any way they can. You can reach them at 480.831.2831 to schedule your next service or to discuss the maintenance schedule recommended for your vehicle.
