Our Story

In 1978, Ernie Bleil, a retired Whitehall Police Officer, revamped a former gas station and opened Ernie’s Brake Service. Ernie, who was dedicated and determined to provide good, honest, personalized automotive repair service, started the business with his son Bill by his side. As the business began to grow, so did the size of the shop. An addition to the building was completed, along with more mechanics being hired.

The services provided also grew, and to demonstrate this growth, Ernie’s Brake Service changed its name to Ernie’s Brake and Automotive Repair. In 1986, Ernie retired from the business and the help of Ernie’s was taken over by Bill and his partner. Over time, Bill added on expanded and increased the size of the shop to a total of 45,000 square feet, where we are able to accommodate nine vehicles at one time. Also, to keep up with the needs of our clients, Ernie’s has continued to provide additional services and to reflect these services, the name has also changed to what it is today, Ernie’s Automotive Service.

Ernie’s, over 35 years, has developed into a full-service garage with a reputation for providing excellent service. Although we have grown in size, we have never forgotten Ernie’s dedication and determination of providing excellent automotive repairs as well as good, honest and personalized service that our clients have come to rely on for over three decades.

Our Staff

Bill started in 1978 as head mechanic under his dad, Ernie. Then in 1986 he became owner and general manager of the business. In his spare time, he likes to work on and ride his motorcycles. He is also very handy and can fix anything broken.

Debbie, Bill’s wife, began at Ernie’s in 1992 and is the executive assistant. She is a certified administrative professional and organizational management (CAP-OM). She also has a degree in office administration. She is a member of the International Association Of Administrative Professionals (IAAP). In her spare time she likes to garden and visit with her family and friends.

Steve, one of the automotive technicians, started in 2002. He is ASE certified in brakes, steering and suspension. In his free time he enjoys hunting, spending time with his family and playing with his pet raccoon, Dee Dee.

Erin is the office assistant and the newest member of the staff who started in 2012, but she has been around the business since she was born. She is Bill and Debbie’s daughter. In her spare time she enjoys being with her husband, friends and her dog.