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Autoworks is Wilmington, North Carolina's premire auto service shop. Autoworks, Inc. is a family owned and operated auto repair facility that has been in business since 1992. Owner, Carl Wilson, understands the importance of finding an automotive repair company that you can trust, and that the choices can sometimes be confusing. Our goals are to provide you with confidence in your mechanic, a clean facility that will help you keep your vehicle running, and a knowledgeable team that will meet your automotive needs. We specialize in your car! Give us a call today! We are located just off Market Street at 202 Antilles Ct Wilmington, NC 28405. Call (910) 791-5074 for directions.

 

 

  • We’re a thinking man’s shop. Of course we’re fully versed in the latest technology, but we pride ourselves on being able to think outside the box. Let us help you keep your car in top shape.
  • How long’s it been since you heard your V6 roar? Would your barn find be better off back in the barn? Let us help get your car in better than new shape. We have over 60 years combined experience restoring vintage European and classic American autos. If your beauty just needs a little TLC, we do that, too. We offer everything from minor fluid changes to complete mechanical restorations.

 


routine maintenance

• Oil & Filter Changes
• Brake Flush
• Coolant Flush
• Transmission Service
• 4-WD & Rear-end Service
• Replacement of Air & Cabin Filter Elements
• Car Specific Major
& Minor Tune-ups
• Tire Rotation

major engine repair

• Engine Replacement
• Blown Head Gaskets
• Repairs Due From Water
& Flood Damage
• Air Intakes
• Oil Leaks & Misc.
Gaskets
• Timing Belts

suspension work

• Upper & Lower Ball Joints
• Struts & CV Axles
• Air-Ride Suspension
• Suspension Conversions
• Lift Kits

brake work

• Brake Pads, Rotors, & Sensor
• Calipers & Brake Lines

air conditioning

• Re-charging the System
• Retro-Fitting
• Any A/C System
Component Repairs

other work

• Alternators & Starters
• Re-Wiring & Finding Shorts
• Batteries
• Dash Lights
• Radiators
• Water Pumps
• Heater Cores
• Hose Replacement

NC State inspections

 

We are auto advisors. Our goal is to keep your car in top shape and on the road. With that in mind, we’ve collected some information to save you money and take some of the guess work out of caring for your car. Give us a call with any questions you may have.

Engine oil
Changing your engine’s oil and filter is one of the most vital maintenance procedures possible. Oil keeps friction down in the engine and prevents the motor from seizing up. Typical intervals for new cars are between 5,000 to 15,000 miles.

Engine coolant
Water and antifreeze keep your engine from overheating and freezing during extreme temperatures. Intervals for flushing the system and replacing coolant vary, as some manufacturers promise long lasting antifreeze good past 100,000 miles. A general timeframe would be every few years or 30,000 to 40,000 miles.

Spark plugs
Older vehicles required the replacement or adjustment of spark plugs much more often than new vehicles do. Manufacturers today promise over 100,000 miles before a tune-up that includes changing the plugs. Still, checking the plugs at 50,000 to 60,000 miles is not a bad idea.

Air filter
The interval for changing the filter depends on the quality of filter, type of vehicle and environment in which most driving occurs. Traveling on dirt roads will surely clog a filter faster than paved highways. Also, local pollution can determine filter life.

Battery
Again, the interval of changing a battery depends on the type of battery, type of vehicle and local climate. Super cold regions may require a more powerful battery for cold starting. Also, rechargeable batteries that have completely lost their charge at some point often never reach full potential again.

Hoses/belts/general pathways
During scheduled maintenance it’s a good idea to inspect all hoses, belts and other connections under the hood to be sure everything is in good shape and properly attached.

Windshield wipers
Wipers need to be replaced, especially in climates with ice and snow. Sometimes just the blade needs replacing, while other times the entire wiper unit should go. Some customers may choose different types of wipers for better performance.

Tires
The type of vehicle, specific tire and driving style determine the life of a tire. Many are rated to last 30,000 to 70,000 miles, but an aggressive style can wear out tires in 15,000 miles. Customers may deviate from OEM specification in the interest of better looks or performance.

Brakes
Like tires, brake life depends heavily on driving style. Lots of stressful braking will significantly shorten the life. Replacement requires new pads and sometimes, new rotors.

Other issues:
Anything required for an annual inspection can also need replacing. Light bulbs, exhaust components and emission controls may require fixing.

Other advice:
Always be sure to maintain the proper tire inflation for safety, performance and longevity.
Buy four matching tires, for the most part. Some rear-wheel-drive cars can get by with just rear snows, but front-wheel-drive cars should never have snows up front and non-snows out back. The inconsistency in grip during braking can cause the tail end to slide out of the driver’s control. All-wheel-drive vehicles require four tires as well.
When purchasing a set of snow tires try to pick up an extra set of wheels on which the rubber can be mounted. Not having to mount/dismount tires each season saves time and maximizes tire life. Often your dealer will sell a reasonably priced set of steel wheel to match the snow tires.

More seasonal precautions
Be sure your engine oil is the correct viscosity. Colder climates can cause oil to thicken, demanding a thinner oil to start.
Check your antifreeze and be certain the proper water-to-antifreeze mixture is maintained. Antifreeze testers are available at many auto parts stores.
Verify that your windshield wipers are operable and keep the washer fluid reservoir full.
Double-check hoses and belts. Cold temperatures can cause rubber to shrink and crack, so be sure your hoses and belts have some flexibility left.

preventative tips
• Have your brakes changed as soon as you  start to hear squealing.
• Check your fluids every other time you fill up.
• Keep your gas cap tight - Click it 3 times.
A loose cap can trigger a check engine light.
• Don’t wait for your car to break down before
coming to see us. Regular maintainence will  help keep you safe and your car last longer.

*Autoworks, Inc. is a family owned and operated auto repair facility that has been in business since 1992. Owner, Carl Wilson, understands the importance of finding an automotive repair company that you can trust, and that the choices can sometimes be confusing. Our goals are to provide you with confidence in your mechanic, a clean facility that will help you keep your vehicle running, and a knowledgeable team that will meet your automotive needs. We specialize in your car! Give us a call today!

We are located just off Market Street at 202 Antilles Ct Wilmington, NC 28405. Call (910) 791-5074 for directions.

 

Employee Bio’s:
Carl Wilson: Autoworks, Inc. owner and founder. A veteran of the automotive industry, Carl is a Master Mechanic with 33+ years of experience. He has a special interest in import, domestic and vintage cars, including MG, Triumph, Alfa Romeo and Ferrari. Previous experience includes a 10+ year stint as crew chief for an Alfa Romeo on the SVRA circuit and the Skoal Bandit car.

Timothy Saunders: Auto Mechanic. Timmy has brought 4 years of experience working on semi & tractor-trailer trucks with him. His focus is on domestic cars including NC State Inspections.

Gary Owens, Jr.: Auto Mechanic. Gary has 12 years of experience on all makes and models of cars, specializing in computer diagnostics and electrical problems. He specializes in GMC, Chrysler and Chevrolet, and Ford.

Bart Reiss: Master Mechanic. Bart’s previous experience includes years as a Service Manager in addition to his 30+ years as a Master Mechanic. His expertise lies in Porsche and German Imports, including other foreign cars. He also has experience in the vintage and race circuits.

Patrick Griffin: Patrick is a CNC Machinist with management experience in machining and lean manufacturing. In addition to service writing, he assists in the office and shop management, and provides needed machining skills.

Dorothy (Wilson) Griffin: Co-owner and Office Manager. Dorothy is not new to the industry; she spent summers working at Autoworks, Inc. since she was 11 years old and has previous experience in customer service and office management. She enjoys honing her skills in the automotive industry.