For about 30 years, Ronda Auto Center has been serving the residents of Lowell. While the company was founded in 1917, general manager John Stuckey III says it was the late 1980s when the company first came to the city.
Stuckey has been with Ronda for 20 years and watched as it has grown and changed over time. He recently oversaw the shop’s move from Main Street to a newly constructed facility on Bowes Road. He says the new location not only gives workers and customers more space, it is also a prime spot close to many city amenities.
Tires Plus Everything Else
Long-time residents may still refer to Ronda Auto Center as Ronda Tire. That’s how the company started – with a focus on tires. “We’ve always done everything,” Stuckey explains. “We used to push tires a lot more.”
While there are still Ronda Tire locations in the greater Grand Rapids area, Ronda Auto Center split from those in 2008. Now, there are two auto centers bearing the Ronda name: the one in Lowell plus another location on Breton Street in Grand Rapids.
As a full-service auto shop, Ronda does everything from brakes to engine repairs to maintenance work. Short of transmission and engine rebuilds, Stuckey says his workers can do it all. The Lowell location currently employs six people, but an uptick in business thanks to the new facility may mean it’s time to hire more.
New Location, Honest Service are Draws for Customers
When asked why people should bring their vehicles to Ronda Auto Center, Stuckey is quick to point out the company’s commitment to customer service. “We’re honest,” he says. “We’re not going to try to sell you something you don’t need.”
As a small town shop manager, Stuckey says he knows too many residents to put his personal reputation on the line by providing shoddy work. And if something goes wrong, which he acknowledges can happen on occasion, Ronda will make it right. “If we screw up, we take care of it,” Stuckey says.
In addition to its customer service, Ronda may also be drawing people in thanks to its new location. Significantly larger than its previous spot, the waiting area is spacious with comfortable couches and free wifi. Plus, it’s within walking distance of parks and other businesses.
While waiting for their car to be serviced, people can head across the street to Stoney Lakeside Park and the adjoining dog park and skate park. McDonald’s is also within walking distance. Although people may prefer to stay in the waiting room during the winter months, Stuckey says folks were heading out when the weather was warmer.
When asked what’s next for the company, Stuckey says plans are to continue offering quality service at affordable prices. “Hopefully we’ll be here for a long time.”
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