The Collegian

Issue date: 2/5/09 Section: News

Media Credit: William Clayton Mechanics at Parney's Car Care & Tire inspect a customer's car over and under to insure quality service.

Michael Parney's auto-repair shop burned to the ground in 1998 after 13 years of business.

Another 11 years down the road, Parney says he depended on the local community, including Hillsdale College, to get back in business.

"The support of the community was tremendous," he said. "I [received] a check from a college student's father from out West. The student was a customer of ours."

He said that gesture typifies his relationship with Hillsdale College. He looks after college students and services their cars at a discount.

"I like to take care of the college kids because I wish there would've been somebody to take care of my daughter when she was at college," he said.

Parney has won over a loyal following of Hillsdale College motorists, including President Larry Arnn, Vice President of Institutional Advancement John Cervini and numerous students.

"He's got good service," Cervini said of the shop. "He runs a very good business."

Parney, 53, credits his success to honesty and attentive customer service.

"I think the secret to owning a business for 24 years is customer service," he said as air-powered tools squealed and a hint of oil fumes wafted through the shop. "Anybody can fix a car who knows cars. It's about not forgetting who you're taking care of, especially in a small town like this."

Parney's passion for cars began in his youth.

"I've always loved cars," he said. "I tuned up my first car when I was 14 - a '54 Chevy Biscayne. I love cars."

Parney's shop attends to automotive repairs and oil changes. He and his wife, Sandra, run the administrative side of the business and employ six mechanics. He offers shuttle pick-up for customers and other personal touches to accommodate clients. But loyal customers say Parney's ethics are his defining trait.

"The honesty they have there is amazing," said Admissions Director Jeffrey Lantis, a 15-year customer. "There were times I took the van there to have work done, and [Parney] has informed me that it is still under warranty and to go to a dealer."

Continued...

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