This past May, local mechanic Brock Wagner and his father Mike made a bold move. The father-son duo opened Coast Auto Services in Qualicum Beach three years ago, expanding their reach from their flagship location to Parksville known by locals as Miles Automotive.
Their mission? To deliver exceptional service with a personal touch, embodying their motto: " going the extra mile to deliver exceptional customer service’."
The automotive duo's expertise spans a wide range of services. At both Coast Auto Services and Miles Automotive, they service all makes and models, including antique cars, muscle cars, fleets, trucks, motorhomes and travel vehicles. Their services include technical diagnostics, general repairs, tune-ups, oil changes, brakes, custom exhausts, air conditioning and more.
“We have several Red Seal technicians, with a vast amount of knowledge and experience.” Says Mike. “We have two young apprentices working for us as they kick-start their career in the automotive industry. It is a pleasure mentoring them and giving them an opportunity to earn a good living in the community they have always called home.”
Their approach to customer service is straightforward, clear and respectful of people’s money. Brock says, “When completing a thorough check on each vehicle, we ensure all options are given to our customers. Sometimes urgent repairs are necessary which can’t wait and others can. We make sure it is understood what has been identified for them to make a decision that works for their budget.”
Acutely aware that every customer interaction can have broad implications – good or bad – Mike and Brock share a deep-rooted commitment to transparency and community pride: “It's not just our shop's reputation; it's our community's reputation,” Brock says. “When travelers come into our shop because of a breakdown and require our services. We ensure we fit them in promptly so they can continue on their way and enjoy their vacation. When they return home we want to be part of their positive experience from their visit to our community.’
Their dedication to ethical service has resonated with customers, who appreciate the reliability they bring to automotive repair. “Honesty, integrity and ethical service is what we want to give to the community,” says Brock, who after initially pursuing marine biology, discovered his true passion, aptitude and expertise was in the automotive industry.
The partnership with his father has been a key component of their success.
“Brock is grateful for Mike’s experience, support and business knowledge and Mike loves working with Brock, watching him thrive in his realm. The two of them make a good team – they work well together and complement each other quite well,” shares proud mother Verna.
And their shared ethos inspires the pair to provide top-notch trusted, ethical and community-focused service to their loyal customers: “You make a living by what you get, but you make a life by what you give.”
Whether it's for a simple tune-up or a complex repair, those in need of reliable automotive care in Parksville, Qualicum and surrounding areas, Coast Auto Services can be reached at 250-752-4449, located at 130 Fern Road East in Qualicum Beach. Contact Miles Automotive online at milesdautomotive.ca, by phone at 250-248-9679 or drop in at the shop located at 1002A Herring Gull Way in Parksville.