By Page Turner
December 2011

Okay. Let's be up front about auto repairs. If a smaller, less expensive, more friendly shop had all the same information, diagnostic equipment, tools and parts as the dealer, PLUS even more training and experience than the dealer, PLUS they could cover your warranty repairs just like the dealer, you'd take your car there in a heartbeat, right?

So, if you own a Toyota, a Lexus, or any other Japanese or Asian-sourced car or truck, why aren't you taking it to Exclusively Imports in Surprise for your repairs?I own a 2005 Toyota Highlander. I use it every day. I service it regularly, because it's vital to myself and my family, and I want to make sure it's in top shape.When it's time for service, I exclusively take it to Exclusively Imports. I wouldn't think of going anywhere else. "We use genuine Toyota and Lexus parts," says Michael Price, who, along with his wife Kelly, owns and operates Exclusively Imports, located at 13365 W. Foxfire Drive, along 134th Drive just north of Bell and just east of Grand.

"We have access to the Toyota Information System, so our knowledge of problems and service bulletins is the same as the dealers. Our labor rate is $85 per hour, versus $110 to $125 at the dealerships. Our technicians are highly trained, not trainees fresh out of school like those at the dealers," he continues. "We may not offer bagels and cream cheese for customers while they wait for their vehicle, but nobody complains about our coffee and snacks while they're saving money on their repairs," he adds.

Exclusively Imports has been in business since 2005, but it's just the latest venture in a 24-year career in auto repairs for Price. A native of Southern California, Price got his start in the business while still in high school. "I received a scholarship when I got out of high school, and I used the money to buy my first set of tools," he recalls.

Apprenticing and then working as a technician at Japanese vehicle repair shops eventually led to an opportunity to own his own facility, Saddleback Imports, in Laguna Hills, Calif. "A few years ago, Kelly and I made the decision to sell that shop and move to Arizona to be closer to my father, who lives in Sun City," notes Price. "I began working for a local shop, but I sensed the need here in the Northwest Valley for a place that specialized in imports like I'd worked on all my life. So Kelly and I decided to start Exclusively Imports here in Surprise, where we live with our two sons, Cameron and Travis."

In addition to Michael and Kelly, the team at Exclusively Imports currently includes two experienced ASE-certified mechanics, Ted and John, who each bring unique skills to the job, says Price. "Our education never stops. We attend classes to keep up with the latest technology, so we can remain specialists in our field," he adds.

With multiple service bays, most repairs at Exclusively Imports can be done while you wait. But for those customers who need a ride to go home or to work while their vehicle is being repaired, Kelly drives the free shuttle service.

"Our mission statement is to Create a Relationship You Can Trust'," says Michael. "How we do that is by taking the time to explain to customers just what repairs we think are necessary, and why. You'll never get that level of personal attention from a dealer's service manager, because he or she doesn't actually work on the car or truck like I do.

"We'll take the time to explain to a customer why a part went bad, and what doesn't need repair now, but may need attention at a later date," he continues. "If we need to, we'll show them the problem face-to-face." This level of personal attention helps build long lasting relationships, with the added benefit of referrals from satisfied customers. "Referrals are the number one source of new business for us," says Price. "We've had customers refer to us online in their blogs, and we've been posted as a recommended repair facility on Corte Bella's website. For that we are sincerely grateful."

"Michael knows the cars. I know the people," adds Kelly, noting that she maintains a computerized repair history on all customers' cars and trucks. A Better Business Bureau member since 2005, Exclusively Imports has never had a complaint from a dissatisfied customer, says Price. "Our goal is no comebacks,' to get it right the first time," he notes. "We want to be in business here for a long time."

Right now, before the truly hot weather of summer sets in, is a good time to have Exclusively Imports check over your air conditioning system, notes Price.

In addition, they've recently added equipment to allow them to handle all of your tire and wheel alignment needs.

Besides Toyota and Lexus, Exclusively Imports offers service on the following Japanese nameplates: Scion, Nissan, Infiniti, Honda, Acura and Subaru. They can also service Korean nameplates, too, says Price. Exclusively Imports is open Monday thru Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call them at 623-537-5444 to schedule your appointment, then go see why they've become the exclusive service and repair choice for more than 1,500 West Valley import owners.