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Providing a personal touch to auto repair: Behind the business with Autobahn Performance, Inc. in Peabody, Massachusetts
Autobahn Performance is more than just an auto repair shop—it’s a labor of love built on passion, skill, and dedication to customer service. Founded in 1994 by Rick Hetherington, Autobahn Performance has grown into a trusted name for automotive service, repair, and restoration with a deep-rooted commitment to service with a personal touch.
Rick’s journey into the world of auto repair started long before Autobahn Performance came to life. His love for cars started early—at just 15 years old, he purchased a 1932 Ford pickup truck and built it alongside his father turning it into an award winning street rod.
“This truck remains in the showroom today, serving as a symbol of my journey and dedication to the trade,” Rick said.
After graduating from Peabody Vocational High School, Rick honed his automotive repair craft at a local Porsche dealership for over 15 years. His reputation for quality work led to an increasing number of personal repair requests outside of work. Eventually, the volume of side projects became so significant that he took the leap to start his own business, and Autobahn Performance was born.
Rick is both the owner and lead technician. Together with his mother, Joan Hetherington, 90 years young, who runs the office, Autobahn Performance is a true family business. In the beginning, Rick and his mom did everything: customer check-ins, diagnosis, repairs, and billing. Today, he has assembled a team of professionals and technicians who help manage the day-to-day operations.
“I prefer to work in the shop and cherry pick which cars I work on,” Rick said. “My true passion lies in working on unique and classic cars. The most recent include a 1929 Model A truck, a 1968 Corvette, and even a DeLorean.”
Autobahn Performance operates on a simple, yet powerful philosophy: provide customers with excellent value and meticulous care.
Every vehicle that comes through the shop is treated with respect, whether it’s a high-end luxury car or a well-loved daily driver, and all of their services include a two-year/24,000-mile warranty, ensuring every repair stands the test of time. Beyond just fixing cars, Autobahn Performance takes pride in the details. Every vehicle is returned to customers cleaned, vacuumed, and ready to hit the road with confidence.
“We believe in fixing entire systems rather than just addressing individual issues,” Rick explained. “We want the customer to be confident that their car is fixed for the long haul, and if there is an issue, bring it back…no questions.”
Over the years, Autobahn Performance has adapted to industry changes and customer needs. Initially known for specializing in high-performance vehicles, the shop has expanded its services to include all makes and models of cars–classics, high-line, hybrids, and everyday rides. Recognizing the shift in customer preferences, they also provide complimentary Uber rides for clients who need transportation while their vehicles are being serviced.
Despite the challenges of business ownership, Rick enjoys the freedom it provides. He appreciates the flexibility to work on projects that excite him while also taking time to enjoy life, whether that means spending a day at his lake house or simply staying home to clear snow in the winter.
Like any business, Autobahn Performance has faced its share of obstacles. The COVID-19 pandemic presented a significant challenge, but the shop remained open as an essential business. Rick made the decision to keep his employees on payroll, ensuring that his skilled team stayed intact. Beyond the pandemic, rising operational costs and marketing in a crowded digital space continue to be hurdles. While traditional advertising methods have become less effective, Autobahn Performance has found success with a customer referral program. Word-of-mouth remains one of their strongest assets.
“The trick is to get people to come in,” Rick explained. “Once they are here, they see all we have to offer and the pride we take in our work, which reinforces their trust and satisfaction.”
In addition to their 7,500-square-foot facility equipped with seven lifts, an alignment machine, and the latest diagnostic tools, Autobahn Performance has created a welcoming and comfortable environment for customers. With two separate waiting areas, the "Rainforest Room" complete with murals, a turtle pond, and parrots; and another with leather couches, a fireplace, and fully-stocked snack area, both designed to be more than just a place to sit—it's a space where clients can relax, work, or even enjoy a moment of tranquility.
“We’ve had customers stay for hours after their car was finished,” Rick said, “because it’s such a quiet, peaceful environment, and they can get their work done.”
Rick was born and raised in Peabody, MA, and community involvement is a core value for Autobahn Performance. They work with many charities including local fundraisers for the schools, police and fire departments, as well as national programs like Wounded Warriors, Special Olympics, Tunnel to Towers, and diabetes research. Rick and his team believe in supporting the community that has supported them for so many years.
“Whether working on a $1,000 first car or a $100,000 twin-turbo sports car, we treat every vehicle and every owner with the same level of care and expertise,” Rick said. “It’s this unwavering commitment to quality and customer satisfaction that has kept us in business for nearly 30 years.”
Autobahn Performance has been an Accredited Member of the Better Business Bureau since 2019. For more information about Autobahn Performance, check out their BBB Profile. To learn more about BBB and read more stories like this, visit Behind the Business Stories with BBB in Eastern MA, ME, RI & VT.
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