Business Details
43 Years
experience
Trusted Auto Repair & Maintenance Services in Raleigh, NC
First Class Automotive has been the premier auto repair shop in Raleigh, NC for luxury import vehicles since 1983. Our ASE Certified Technicians specialize in Mercedes, BMW, Porsche, Lexus, Audi, and other high-end makes, combining decades of experience with state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment. We prioritize transparency, explaining all service costs and offering complimentary local shuttle service and loaner vehicles. Backed by a 24 Month/24,000 Mile Warranty, we maintain a small-shop atmosphere while delivering the efficiency of a large facility.Our teams expertise in complex repairs and commitment to customer education ensures lasting solutions. As a locally owned business, we integrate green initiatives like recycling programs and energy conservation into daily operations. With over 30 years of service records tracking, we provide personalized maintenance history for every vehicle. Our dedication to community extends to partnerships with Service Center Scholars and BBB. From routine oil changes to engine replacements, we aim to be Raleighs one-stop shop for luxury vehicle care.
Services
Oil Changes
Brake Repair
Muffler Service
Wheel Alignment
Engine Repair
Transmission Service
Tire Sales
Pre-Purchase Inspections
AC Repair
Electrical Diagnostics
Details
- Year established: 1983
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of specialized experience in luxury import vehicle repair.
- Our technicians are ASE Certified with access to manufacturer-grade diagnostic tools.
- We provide complimentary local shuttle service and loaner vehicles during repairs.
- All repairs are backed by a 24 Month/24,000 Mile Warranty.
- We maintain detailed service records for personalized vehicle maintenance tracking.
Associations and certifications
- ASE
What people say
Honest service
Knowledgeable team
Complimentary loaner cars
No unnecessary upsells
Expertise in luxury imports
Services
Auto Repair
First Class Automotive provides comprehensive repair services for luxury import vehicles including Mercedes, BMW, and Porsche. Our ASE-certified technicians use advanced diagnostic tools to address engine performance, electrical systems, and mechanical issues. With over 30 years of experience, we ensure precision repairs backed by a 24-month warranty.
Tire Sales
We offer tire sales, mounting, balancing, and flat repair services for all vehicle types. Our inventory includes premium brands like Michelin, ensuring long-lasting performance and fuel efficiency. Technicians perform precise installations and alignment checks to maximize tire lifespan and vehicle safety.
Wheel Alignment
Our state-of-the-art wheel alignment technology matches manufacturer standards for precision. This service corrects steering and suspension angles to improve handling, reduce tire wear, and enhance fuel efficiency. Technicians complete alignments in under two hours using computerized diagnostic systems.
Pre-Purchase Inspections
We conduct thorough pre-purchase inspections for luxury vehicles, identifying mechanical, electrical, and structural issues. Our ASE-certified technicians use specialized tools to assess engine performance, transmission function, and safety systems, providing detailed reports to inform buying decisions.
AC Repair
Our AC repair services restore cooling efficiency through refrigerant recharge, compressor diagnostics, and system leak detection. Technicians service all luxury vehicle AC systems, replacing worn components and ensuring optimal performance for passenger comfort.
People
Harry Whyte
Owner
Harry Whyte founded First Class Automotive in 1983 after studying engineering at NCSU. With expertise in BMW repair since age 13, he leads the shops technical operations and green initiatives. He serves on the Service Center Scholars Executive Committee and local business organizations.
Chris Mason
Service Advisor
Chris Mason joined First Class Automotive in 2011, bringing automotive industry experience since 2008. He specializes in customer service coordination and complex repair solutions, managing client relationships while balancing personal automotive projects and coastal excursions.
Mike Smothers
Lead Technician
Mike Smothers, an ASE Master L1-certified technician, has 24 years of automotive repair experience. He oversees mechanical diagnostics and training at First Class Automotive, leveraging expertise from Phoenix technical schools to ensure precision repairs for luxury import vehicles.
Chelsey Harrington
Office Manager
Chelsey Harrington manages daily operations at First Class Automotive, combining hospitality management experience from NYC with automotive industry knowledge. She coordinates customer service initiatives and shuttle services while maintaining family ties to the business.
Tyler Lamm
Service Advisor
Tyler Lamm transitioned to First Class Automotive after working in automotive sales and collision repair. He specializes in customer education about service needs, drawing on family automotive experience to provide transparent repair recommendations and appointment coordination.
Questions
What types of vehicles do you service?
We specialize in luxury import vehicles including Mercedes, BMW, Porsche, Lexus, Audi, Jaguar, and Range Rover.
Do you offer a warranty on repairs?
All repairs are backed by a 24 Month/24,000 Mile Warranty covering parts and labor.
Can I schedule an appointment online?
Yes, use our online scheduling system or call (919) 371-0076 to book service appointments.
Are financing options available?
Yes, we offer financing through third-party providers for qualified customers needing major repairs.
Do you provide loaner vehicles?
Complimentary loaner cars are available during repairs with fuel reimbursement required.
What green initiatives do you implement?
We use hybrid shuttle vehicles, recycle automotive fluids and parts, and practice energy conservation in our facility.
Videos
Reviews (6)
James Joslin
Jun 23, 2022
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1st Class Automotive is the BEST! They identified that a large auto repair chain was trying to perform $2,500 in needless repairs. They then zeroed in on the actual repairs and maintenance my car needed. My car has 120,000 miles on it now but is good until 200,000 thanks to the 1st Class team. We are glad that honest, competent, professionals like them are still in business. I recommend them to anyone; especially those with foreign cars.
Serita Baskerville
Jun 04, 2022
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This is a place you can trust. They are very well versed and can explain things to you in layman's terms. Great customer service, etc. and they work with you. I wouldn't go anyplace else. Service: General repairs & maintenance
Henry Young
May 17, 2022
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They were very pleasant on the phone. After some working around, they were able to see me and got to my car same day. I was amazed at how informed they kept me and pleasant the staff was with my questions I also felt the prices were fair for European cars. go if you have trouble with your cars Service: General repairs & maintenance
Josh Daye
Apr 12, 2022
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Chris, Megan & the staff was very professional from start to finish. Explain every detail what was going on with my S Class. Was very impressed how meticulous Chris was with the repairs at hand. Will be bring my other 4 cars to them for sure. Great Service Services: Wheel alignment, Air conditioning, General repairs & maintenance
Tanya Helton
Mar 09, 2022
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Unfortunately I live in an area where there arent many foriegn car specialists. However, this place not only fixed my issue but has great customer service. They keep you informed during the entire process which goes a long way with me. I also love that the place is clean and looks very professional. Great mechanic and great service. A bit pricey but remember, you get what you pay for.
M. Lasonde
Feb 16, 2022
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Was referred by a friend after purchasing a car. They did a post inspection for me and found some minor issues that would have normally went unnoticed. With these issues currently being covered by the dealer I was able to communicate that back to the dealer and with the paperwork supplied by 1st auto everything is now being addressed. I will certainly become a customer of 1st auto and continue to be one for a long time. Nice, friendly and informative staff top to bottom. Thanks guys for everything.
