Complete Automotive Services

Questions Before You Come In

Here are the questions we hear most often from first-time customers.

Where is Ernie's Automotive Service located?

Ernie's Automotive Service is located at 3906 East Main Street in Columbus, OH 43213 — just off East Main Street, minutes from I-70, and easily accessible from Whitehall, Bexley, Reynoldsburg, Pickerington, Canal Winchester, and the surrounding east-side Columbus communities. We're open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call (614) 235-8037 or use our online appointment form to schedule.

What makes Ernie's different from other auto repair shops?

Three things. First, longevity — Ernie Behal founded the shop in 1978, and nearly five decades in the same location means we've earned the trust of generations of east-side families. Second, honesty — we diagnose before quoting, explain findings in plain language, and provide written estimates before any work begins. Third, protection — as a NAPA AutoCare certified shop, qualifying repairs are backed by the NAPA Peace of Mind Warranty, honored at more than 17,000 shops nationwide. And we live by the founding motto: "If we don't take care of the customer, somebody else will."

Do you work on my make and model?

Almost certainly, yes. Ernie's has specialized in comprehensive repair for both foreign and domestic vehicles since 1978 — Honda, Toyota, Hyundai, Nissan, Subaru, BMW, Volkswagen, Ford, Chevrolet, Dodge, Jeep, and most other major manufacturers. Our technicians have the training, tools, and diagnostic equipment to service modern vehicles from any major brand. Call (614) 235-8037 if you want to confirm before you come in.

Do I need an appointment, or can I drop in?

Appointments help us get you in and out faster, so we recommend using our online appointment request or calling (614) 235-8037 to schedule when you can. That said, we understand breakdowns don't keep a calendar — call us and we'll work you in as quickly as possible when something unexpected happens. If your vehicle isn't safe to drive, we can arrange a tow; free towing applies within 10 miles when your repair is $250 or more in labor.

What should I expect on my first visit?

A real conversation. We'll listen to what's going on with your vehicle, perform a diagnostic when one is needed, and explain what we find in plain language — no jargon, no pressure. You'll get a written estimate before any work begins, and if something unexpected turns up during the repair, we stop and call you before doing anything that isn't already authorized. That's how we've built a customer base that keeps coming back for generations.