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It is an automotive repair shop unadorned with leather couches or cappuccino machines. Precision Performance in Wilton is pure and unadulterated car and truck repair.
Manager Patrick Kretschman, 41, is forthright and absolutely no-frills as he explains his perception of running a successful shop: "People in small communities like this talk to each other about the businesses here. If you do good work and have integrity if you're honest with solid credentials customers will come. And they'll come back."
During the course of a conversation in the shop's front office/reception/storage area, which smells faintly of rubber and engine innards, a customer walks in and asks for Patrick's advice. The customer's teenaged son wants to try his hand at an oil change. But Patrick, who remembers the man's name (and car model), is leery of possible damage to the oil pan. He suggests that one of his mechanics first loosen a key lug nut before the teen gets under the hood. The customer is pleased -- and so is Patrick.
Patrick has been repairing cars for more than 20 years but is understated about his knowledge of all things automotive. He's more interested in detailing his philosophy about fixing peoples' cars and trucks. "I have an obligation to ensure safety. That's my first concern." He says he knows he's not in the business to "make tons of money," but that his life is made richer by the fact that he does things right. "We're not a plush outfit," he says. "But that's not really what customers pay for. Sometimes when they come in to have a car repaired, they'll just hang out and talk for a while. That beats fancy."
What side of the fancy vs. functional car repair outfit do you fall on? Let me know here.
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