Business Details
36 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Auto Repair Partner in West End, NC
AutoWerks was founded in 1990 by Charles 'Chuck' Dinkel and Lorraine Laslett, combining decades of automotive expertise with a commitment to trust and transparency. Our team specializes in servicing European vehicles, including BMW, Mercedes, VW, Audi, and Mini, utilizing advanced diagnostic tools and a deep understanding of both modern and classic automotive systems. We prioritize calendar-based preventative maintenance to ensure vehicle longevity, offering comprehensive repairs, tire services, and pre-purchase inspections.Our 36-month/50,000-mile warranty reflects confidence in our workmanship, while our 24/7 emergency hotline underscores our dedication to customer care. With a focus on personalized service and technical excellence, we serve South Central North Carolina, building lasting relationships through integrity and automotive expertise.
Services
Auto Repair
Diagnostics
Tire Services
Maintenance
Pre-Purchase Inspection
Emissions Testing
Brake Repair
Transmission Service
Window Tint Inspection
Details
- Year established: 1990
Highlights and features
- We specialize in European vehicles with 35+ years of technical expertise
- Our 36-month/50,000-mile warranty covers parts and labor
- 24/7 emergency hotline for urgent automotive needs
- Calendar-based maintenance scheduling for optimal vehicle performance
- Transparent diagnostics with direct communication from technicians
What people say
Honest mechanics
Excellent service
Prompt repairs
Transparent diagnostics
Reliable maintenance
Services
Auto Repair
Our comprehensive auto repair services address mechanical, electrical, and diagnostic issues for European vehicles. With specialized tools and expertise in BMW, Mercedes, VW, Audi, and Mini models, we ensure precise repairs using quality components. Our technicians prioritize root-cause diagnosis to prevent recurring issues, backed by a 36-month/50,000-mile warranty on all workmanship and parts.
Pre-Purchase Inspection
We conduct thorough pre-purchase inspections for used vehicles, including computer diagnostics, road testing, and mechanical evaluation. Our process identifies potential issues while assessing overall vehicle condition, providing detailed documentation to support informed purchasing decisions. This service helps avoid costly surprises through comprehensive analysis of critical systems and components.
Tire Services
We offer tire sales at cost plus a $12.50 processing fee per tire, with access to major brands and same-day installation. Our experts evaluate existing tires for wear patterns and safety, providing recommendations based on driving conditions and vehicle requirements. We ensure proper installation and alignment to maximize tire longevity and vehicle performance.
Diagnostics
Our advanced diagnostic capabilities cover modern electronic systems and older mechanical technologies. Using specialized tools for European vehicles, we identify complex issues in fuel injection, emissions, and computer-controlled systems. Technicians combine technical expertise with practical experience to resolve challenging diagnostic cases efficiently and accurately.
Maintenance
We implement calendar-based maintenance programs to optimize vehicle reliability and longevity. Services include oil changes, fluid replacements, and system inspections following manufacturer guidelines. Our tracking system reminds clients of upcoming services through door-jam stickers displaying service dates, odometer readings, and contact information for seamless scheduling.
People
Charles Dinkel
Co-Owner & Lead Technician
With over 35 years in automotive repair, Chuck combines aerospace engineering expertise with hands-on experience. He established AutoWerks in 1990 after working with European cars since the 1970s, focusing on technical excellence and customer trust through transparent service practices.
Lorraine Laslett
Co-Owner
Lorraine brings business management expertise to AutoWerks, complementing technical operations with client-focused service. Her background in art history and museum work informs the company's attention to detail and commitment to preserving automotive heritage through quality repairs.
Questions
What vehicles do you specialize in?
We specialize in European vehicles including BMW, Mercedes, VW, Audi, and Mini models, with diagnostic capabilities for both modern and classic systems.
Do you offer emergency services?
Yes, our 24/7 emergency hotline (910-295-5888, option 9) provides urgent assistance for breakdowns and critical vehicle issues.
What warranty do you provide?
We offer a 36-month/50,000-mile warranty covering parts and labor, with some components having extended prorated coverage.
How do appointments work?
Appointments require 24-hour advance notice. Drop-off by 3 PM the day before allows thorough processing for timely service completion.
Do you service older vehicles?
Yes, we maintain expertise in older European models, including specialized diagnostics for 1970s-1980s Mercedes fuel injection systems.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major credit cards, cash, and checks for all repair and maintenance services.
Reviews (7)
Dale Krech
Mar 13, 2022
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Professional throughout the whole organization. I'm confident in their mechanical knowledge and the needs of my Mercedes.
Donna Bridgman
Jan 19, 2022
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Autowerks and Russell were very professional. Their communication was great. I was very satisfied with their service. Will definitely return when needed. Services: Engine repair, Oil change, Auto engine tuning, General repairs & maintenance
Kelly Harding
Jan 08, 2022
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AutoWerks repaired my radiator overflow tank. I had my BMW towed there because they are known for their work on foreign vehicles and the closest BMW dealership is an hour away. Russell kept me frequently informed with pricing & updates. I appreciated their professionalism and timeliness to get my vehicle back to me as quickly as possible. Will definitely take my vehicle there for future maintenance. Thank you guys!
Laura Mauer
Dec 21, 2021
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AutoWerks provides excellent service for both of our cars, made easier by having good communication as well as a detailed understanding of the BMW and Miata cars. Russell, the service manager, understands our needs. Services: Exhaust, General repairs, Tire rotations, Oil change, Air conditioning
Don Grant
Oct 15, 2021
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Been coming here for over 2 years with 3 vehicles. Always have received good service. They even referred me to another repair shop for a muffler repair rather than trying to fix themselves. Have never tried to upsell me into something unnecessary such as a high end tire for one of my cars used primarily around town. Always informs me of areas that will need attention be n in future visits. Would and have recommended them to others for all their car needs.
Randy Merritt
Oct 14, 2021
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Over the years we have had a BMW and now a Mercedes GL450. Autowerks has always been there for us. I usually schedule my service with Russell and I am always comfortable about that because i trust what he is telling me. If Russell says it needs to done, we do it. You never get the idea at AutoWerks that they are suggesting things just to drive up the bill. And to go with that, the prices are reasonable. Another plus for me is that they now service Cadillacs, so if you have a Caddy, you're home. Please give them a try.
Jeanne Gallagher
Jul 25, 2021
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We had the tires rotated and the oil changed on out mini cooper. The price tag was $450.00 we barely got out of the parking lot when it became apparent the wheels were about to fall off because the lugs had never been tightened. I had a repair slip that clearly stated the car had been test driven and all work had been expertly compleated. BUYER BEWARE