AAA releases its list of top auto-repair shops

Amber Giuliano of AAA Arizona submitted this information about auto-repair facilities recommended by the auto club.

When it comes to finding an auto-repair facility, not all are created equal, according to AAA. The auto club recently released its list of Top Shops, facilities awarded for providing their customers with honest, reliable and quality service. This year, the auto club is recognizing 20 Approved Auto Repair facilities and three Approved Auto Body facilities throughout the state.

Among them were:

• Mike's Sun City Union, 10120 W. Bell Road, Sun City, 623-933-1182, run by Mike Johnson and Scott Rapman.

• Sun Cities Tire & Auto, 13701 W. Camino Del Sol, Sun City West, 623-975-1737, owned by Wally and Cathy Moreland.

• Thunderbird Automotive, 8768 W. Thunderbird Road, Peoria, 623-979-1054, owned by Tom Fletcher and Gary Robison.

• Bell Tire & Auto Services, 6027 W. Bell Road, Glendale, 602-843-5501, owned by Dave and Marguerite Bankston.

• Greulich's Automotive Service, 15445 N. 83rd Way, Glendale, 480-483-2447, owned by Chris Greulich.

"We honor these shops for going above and beyond in terms of professional standards, integrity, customer service and community involvement," said Don Nunnari, vice president of membership products and service for AAA Arizona.

To be considered for the Top Shop designation, facilities must first be a part of AAA's AAR network of 151 auto facilities across Arizona. These shops must meet more than 20 standards that include providing a list of 200 customers to be surveyed on the shop's service; using technicians certified by Automotive Service Excellence; providing a 12-month/12,000-mile warranty on repair work; agreeing to binding arbitration if there is a dispute with an AAA member; and annual inspection by AAA.

Top Shops maintain customer surveys with at least a 90 percent approval rating; are actively involved in the community through service groups and charities; and uphold an exemplary business reputation.