Service Smart Saturday will be Saturday, August 20th, 2022
Meet the Founders
Everardo and Claudia
Everardo's love for cars has been with him ever since he was a child. With some pals, he built his first car at age fifteen and they raced another team from a rival school. He attended and completed automotive technical school before moving to the United States. When Everardo first came over to the States he began working on Rolls-Royce and other high end luxury vehicles by day and attending the University of Houston by night seeking a degree in computer science. When the opportunity to own his own shop arose, he took a leap with his wife, and they became business owners.
Claudia's involvement with the automotive industry began when she was a child as well. Her father owned a successful parts store in Argentina. When she was young, she would often sort and pull various items or work the register (even before she could count!). When Claudia first came to the States, she was involved in Hotel Management, but when presented with a chance of becoming a business owner and specifically starting an automotive garage with her husband, she seized it.
The husband and wife team started Professional Auto Care back in 1983 and they continue to have a strongly felt presence in the day-to-day operations of the company. The duo has always felt that family is important and so they involved their children in the business.
Everardo and Claudia's 37th Wedding Anniversary.
Meet Karolena
2nd Generation and Leading the Future
Karolena has been at her parents' side since she was a child at the shop. Though she does much more nowadays than handing her father tools, the passion for the business her parents instilled in her has not changed. She is eager to challenge the service industry to create a standard for transparent service. You can learn more about Karolena and her mission by visiting www.maintenanceisamust.com .
Upon graduating St. Agnes Academy in 2007, she attended the University of Houston, Bauer College of Business. She received her bachelors' in business administration, double majoring in Entrepreneurship and Supply Chain Management with certificates in Logistics and Process Management. Karolena is an ASE Certified Service Consultant, ASE Certified G1 Maintenance and Light Repair Technician, licensed State Inspector, served as a member of the AAA Approved Repair Advisory Committee of Texas & New Mexico (AARAC), ASA (Automotive Service Association) board member (2011- 2016), ASA President Elect 2012-2013, and two time ASA Houston Chapter President 2014-2016. She's also a frequent guest on a couple local radio shows! Visit her blog for upcoming dates! In her community she served as a member of the St. Agnes Academy Young Professionals Board Member 2012- 2016. As well as her passion for the City of Sugar Land; member of the City Manager's Multi-Cultural Advisory Team, Member of the City of Sugar Land's Land Use Advisory Committee, Sugar Land 101 graduate and Sugar Land Citizen Police Academy graduate.
Karolena Serratos, SW Houston auto repair shop owner.
About Professional Auto Care
There is no such thing as over-night success
Our automotive repair shop has undergone many changes since the 1980s. When we first opened in 1983, the shop was half the size of today’s main building at 9916. Even this expansion proved insufficient so in the mid 90’s we purchased the lot of land across the street (9913) and constructed a much larger building – more than double 9916’s size! With all the space, we were able to store parts elsewhere and turn the parts room into an open concept office for our service consultants and writers.
In the early 2000’s, a concrete parking lot was poured down as more and easier client parking became necessary. When the concrete had just been poured, Karolena and Kimberly signed their names and pressed their hands into it. You can see their handprints and names on your way to our 9913 waiting room. The waiting room was built in 2007 and gave our clients much more space to relax and do what they needed while waiting for their vehicle to be maintained or repaired. Around 2012, we moved our inventory into two large containers. The containers have proved most useful because different manufacturers have begun to require specific fluids in recent years.
Fast forward a few years and we have three maintenance bays, one alignment bay, two dedicated Service Smart℠ check out bays, one dedicated inspection bay, two minor repair bays, five major repair bays, and two detailing bays, and a super comfy waiting room for clients.
The Serratos Family has owned Professional Auto Care since 1983.
What People Say About Us
October 2021
"The truck is running great so far! If we don't see you before, have a happy holiday season"
Bobbi, 2015 Toyota Land Cruiser
"Everything is going well! We enjoyed a quick trip to Galveston this weekend, and it drove wonderfully. I'll let you know when I can get the Versa over to you. Thanks for everything!"
Sarah, 2018 Kia Sorento
"Thank you so much, Karolena, for checking on us! My Element is starting with no trouble at all now. You rock!"
Donna, 2009 Honda Element
"Gas mileage to Dallas was 17 mph! We usually get closer to 12 mpg, so that was great. The engine is running quieter. We have no trouble pulling the trailer home. Wiring harness worked great and the truck handled the trip well... Again, thank you for taking such good care of us."
Debbie, 2005 Ford F-150
September 2021
"Doing great, no issues!"
Virginia, 2019 Nissan Pathfinder
"Everything is working well. I think we are good. Much appreciated!"
Jarrod with 2014 Subaru Outback & 1999 Chevrolet S-10
"I am not pleased with the work performed on the car, I am ecstatic. She hasn't run this well in years. Thank you very much to your team. I am a very satifsifed customer."
Brandon, 2002 Dodge Neon
"Thanks for checking in - the family and car are all great. I hear the noise intermittently and I think it's most likely what y'all mentioned about he brakes."
Boaz, 2020 Jeep Gladiator
"Thanks for the follow up. The car is working well."
Andres, 2009 Nissan Versa
August 2021
"Thanks for the follow-up, the clutch has never felt so good since I bought the truck. :) Say hi to your brother for me. And a little head pat on your well-trained dog."
Carlos, owner of 2000 Toyota Tundra
"Yes, everything is fine, thank you for asking. Always glad to get your professional help. Have a wonderful week and month."
Dario, owner of 2005 Toyota Corolla
"That catalytic converter code on my Ford Focus did turn out to be covered by the manufacturer and they replaced it as well with no cost to the company. Thank you so much for that advice and all your help!"
Mike with fleet account
"Thank you so much for this advice and all the info. We really appreciate it! Look forward to seeing you on Tuesday."
Keliy, owner of 2016 Dodge Journey
"We just returned from our trip to Indiana and Kentucky. We probably travelled over 2,500 miles. I am happy to report that there were no car problems and we had a pleasant trip. Thanks for your great help!"
Barry, owner of 2012 Honda Fit
"Thanks for check-in in! Running great! Thanks!!"
Eduardo, owner of 2013 Honda Pilot
"Thanks for checking in Karolena. The car is good. Great service as always."
Andres, owner of 2014 Mazda 3
"I can tell the difference with the rear shocks and the whining noise from engine is not detectable. I appreciate being able to bring it in the morning and being done same day. Thanks."
Bill, owner of 2012 Nissan Frontier
"It is performing excellently! Thank you for the follow up. And thanks again for being a guest on my show. I will send you the link."
James, owner of 2011 Land Rover Range Rover
"Everything is peachy keen. :) thanks for checking"
Misty, owner of 2015 Toyota Camry
"The car is doing good so far no problems"
Jennifer, owner of 2013 Toyota Corolla
"Yes, evyerhitng is fine. Thank you for checking in."
Charles, owner of 2014 Ford F150
"It is still great! Thanks for checking!"
Margret, owner of 2018 Acura RDX
July 2021
"So far so good."
Jeff, owner of 2013 Honda Pilot
"It is great. Thanks so much for all your hard work. Best regards to the technicians."
John, owner of 2012 Acura TSX
"So far, so good! thank you"
Edwin, owner of 2017 Ford Expedition
"So far it is holding up quite well! Thank you so much for the fix. Have a great week!"
Alicia, owner of 2016 Hyundai Accent
"The car is running smoothly, so happy :)"
Maria, owner of 2015 Subaru Forester
"Everything has been working fine."
Buddy, owner of 2016 Chevrolet Equinox
June 2021
"It is amazing! They are good thank u!"
Misty, owner of 2018 Ford F150
"Thanks for checking. It's running well, and the a/c has been working too, so far. Hope you all have a great weekend too."
Quincy, owner of 2005 Chevrolet Suburban
"Been quite busy, of course, but everything with the car is working fine. Incidentally, thanks for the Hyundai Blanket Birthday Present!"
John, owner of 2016 Hyundai Elantra
"Thanks for checking. It started right up today."
Carole, owner of 2000 Buick LeSabre
May 2021
"Everything is currently working fine."
Raymond, owner of 2012 Acura TL
"Truck did great. No problems at all which was good because I had some long stretches with nothing at all around. Thanks for checking in."
Jacob, owner of 2012 Nissan Titan
"Dem Auto geht es gut. Ich hoffe du hast eine tolle und gesegnete woche."
Herr Knroenfeld, besitzer von 2006 Jeep Liberty
"Everything is great! Very pleased with both cars."
Ben owner of 2012 Mustang & Juke
April 2021
"Everything great. Yes, she is very pleased. Will definitely reach if we have any questions. Service as always...Great."
Hernan, owner of 2014 Honda Pilot
"The car is working good. Glad we were able to keep it running. I will for sure let you know if we encounter any problem or have any concern. Thanks for the follow up."
Andres, owner of 2009 Nissan Versa
"She hasn't had much road time since the belt change, but appears to be driving great. Thanks for the great service and follow up."
Cailtin, owner of 2014 Subaru Outback
"I appreciate your hospitality and friendship while waiting for my Professional Automobile Services to be completed. It is not every auto shop that supplies such competent, charming, and interesting management. I plan to visit again when my autos will need firm but tender repair."
David, owner of 2015 Hyundai Tuscson
"The window is good! Thank you."
Charles, owner of 2013 Ford F250
"It was great! Thanks a lot...Professional service & a very comfortable atmosphere."
Eduardo, owner of 2013 Honda Pilot
"Drove the truck to La Grange over the weekend and to and from work yesterday and today, running like a champ, no issues and no signs of leaks! As always, thanks for a great job!"
John, owner of 2008 Ford F250
March 2021
"I haven't had any problems. Thanks for following up. I have really loved the service I've received. I have taken your advice to heart and really hope my car will be a great long-term investment. I look forward to maintaining it through your shop. I appreciated my coupon and note. (: I look forward to doing business again."
Keith, owner of 2006 Scion tC
"Both vehicles are working great! Hopefully we won't see you for a while."
Heather owner of 2008 Scion xB
"Good evening Karolena. All is good with Noah's car. My wife just raves about the exceptional service. I think she knows the owner. :)"
Marc, owner of 2013 Kia Sorento
"It is doing great, nothing out of order to report."
Keegan, owner of 2010 Dodge Ram 1500
"Thanks for reaching out. The air leak on the tire beads is greatly reduced. What was a daily addition of air to my tires, is now much rarer. I have only added air once since picking up the car. I suspect the remaining air leaks won't be completely fixed until I break down and purchase new tires. The ride is aimprovednd I'm not experiencing any dnoticeablerif or pull with the car's steering. Thanks for all the help."
Logan, owner of 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
"All is well. Thanks again for all your help, and thank you for helping me take good care of my vehicle."
Geroge, owner of 2019 Volskwagen Jetta
"Thanks for check-in in! The car is running great now, thank you for all your help!"
Betsy, owner of 2010 Toyota Highalnder
"It's purring like a kitten! :) All is good! Thank you!!"
Misty, owner of 2015 Toyota Camry
February 2021
" The car is running smoothly. Thanks for letting me panic and bring it in with such short notice (as in none)."
Katherine, owner of 2013 Mini Cooper
"So far; so good. The side mirror is still attached and the TPMS light has not reappeared."
Allen, owner of 2010 Honda CR-V
"Thanks for reaching out, my car definitely feels a lot better on the road. I plan on getting the water pump fixed as soon as it is convenient. See you guys soon. Thank you for everything."
Joshua, owner of 2014 Ford Mustang
"Thanks for the email! The Jeep seems more like a Jeep and can take the road. Love that it doesn't feel like a POS Jeep. Lol. Definitely an improvement. Did check the a/c and seems right. But will have to wait till spring to fully test of course. The Marauder is good too. It's gonna stay in the garage mostly. Jeep during the week and Marauder for fun on the weekends! All good."
John, owner of 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2004 Mercury Marauder
"Yes, everything has been perfect with the repair. We still plan on bringing our 2011 Prius in for routine service this spring. Thank you again"
Scott, owner of 2005 Toyota Prius
January 2021
“Thank you Karolena. The vibration issue is much better. Hoping to get the right front tire replaced this week, as you suggested, as well.”
Tim owner of 2010 Lexus GX460
“She is great and still in 1 piece. Thanks for checking. 😊”
Misty owner of 2018 Ford F-150
“We are great. Thanks for checking! We appreciate your help!”
Jarrod owner of 2014 Nissan Quest
“Yeti is doing okay.”
Johannes owner of 2006 Jeep Liberty
“The CR-V is running great, no shimmy in front end.”
Ted owner of 2008 Honda CR-V
“I was able to access what you sent me, thanks for following up. I ended up getting a partial credit for the tires.”
Lee owner of 2015 Ford F-150
“I am very pleased with the service and repair my car received at your shop. The car runs great and smoothly, now I can barely hear the engine running. Your customer service is outstanding! And I appreciate the constant updates I was getting about my car. Thank you!”
Mike owner of 2013 Dodge Dart
December 2020
"The car is doing fine. Thank you for reaching out and following up. I will be reaching out if needed. Wishing you and your family a wonderful Christmas as well.
-Terence owner of 2007 Lincoln Town Car
"Thank you very much I appreciate everything you did. Y'all did an excellent job."
- Dennis owner of 2016 Cadillac CTS
"We and our vehicles are doing fine. Thank you for always taking good care of our car and truck."
-Jim & Janice owners of 2014 Toyota Tundra and 2016 Toyota Highlander
"All went well with my old RAV4. Y'all did a great job! We will definitely be back. I have already recommended you to friends."
-Glen owner of 2003 Toyota Rav4
Client emailed after a PrePurchase Evaluation:
"I did have them check out the satellite antenna error code and there was indeed something wrong: they had replaced the windshield and not reconnected the satellite antenna, so happy you caught that!"
-Edwin owner of 2017 Ford Expedition
November 2020
"Everything is working great so far. Thank you so much for your help. As always, service was excellent. Have a a safe and happy Thanksgiving."
Ms. Adams owner of 2011 Buick Regal
"Thanks. I don't see problem now and drives well, thank you for following up."
Yoshi owner of 1995 Acura NSX
"Yes, it is working. Also the payment option is super convenient, especially since I work late."
Armando owner of 2009 Ford Focus
"Doing great, Karolena, thank you! I'll see you in December! Have a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving! Sincere regards, your satisfied customer."
Glen owner of 2003 Toyota Rav4
"Great! The car is working well."
Heather owner of 2008 Scion xB
"Everything is running great and mama bear is delighted with the results. Thank you for reaching out! Have a great rest of the day."
Jeff owner of 2017 Nissan Rogue
"The windshield is great! We've replaced the battery terminals and air filter. Lights are next. We will be in touch for the other repairs!"
Lora owner of 1995 Toyota Corolla
"Thanks for checking in on how the truck is doing after it in for service. I am please to say that all is well. It is running fine with no issues. Thank you for all you do at PAC!! We are all doing well also. I hope everyone there is doing well too."
Angel owner of 2008 Chevrolet 2500