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Business Details
49 Years
experience
Expert Auto Repair Services in Charleston, IL
Johnson's Automotive has been a trusted name in automotive care since 1977, founded by Steve Johnson and now operated by his son David. Our commitment to quality, community, and technical excellence has made us Charleston's premier full-service auto facility. With ASE-certified technicians and state-of-the-art equipment, we provide comprehensive repairs and maintenance for all vehicle types. Our family-owned business prioritizes customer relationships over transactions, offering transparent pricing and personalized service. We serve local residents, Eastern Illinois University students, and families with free pickup/delivery and special weekend hours.

Our 45+ years of experience, combined with third-generation automotive expertise, ensures every repair meets the highest standards. We exclusively use premium parts and maintain AAA certification, reflecting our dedication to industry best practices. From routine maintenance to complex diagnostics, our focus remains on safety, reliability, and customer satisfaction. Our expanded facility includes modern waiting areas and 1,000+ square feet of shop space, accommodating both immediate needs and long-term service plans. As lifelong Charleston residents, we understand the importance of trusted local businesses and strive to uphold that legacy daily.
Services
Auto Repair Vehicle Maintenance Safety Inspections Pickup & Delivery Service ASE Certified Technician Services
Details
  • Year established: 1977
Highlights and features
  • ASE-certified technicians with 45+ years of combined experience
  • Family-owned service with third-generation automotive expertise
  • Free pickup/delivery for Eastern Illinois University students
  • Exclusive use of premium quality parts with 10% lower labor rates
  • AAA-certified facility maintaining industry-leading standards
Associations and certifications
  • AAA
  • ASE
Update Listing
Services
Auto Repair
Comprehensive automotive repair services for all makes and models. Our ASE-certified technicians diagnose and fix mechanical, electrical, and computer system issues using factory-grade tools. We guarantee quality workmanship with warranties on all repairs. Our facility handles everything from engine overhauls to minor fixes.
Vehicle Maintenance
Scheduled maintenance programs to keep vehicles running efficiently. Services include oil changes, brake inspections, tire rotations, and fluid checks. Our maintenance plans follow manufacturer recommendations while offering cost-effective alternatives. We provide detailed service records for future reference.
Safety Inspections
Complimentary safety checks with every service visit. Technicians inspect brakes, tires, lights, steering components, and safety systems. We prioritize customer safety through proactive issue identification. Inspection reports include recommended repairs with clear explanations of safety implications.
Pickup & Delivery
Free transportation service for local customers. Available for Eastern Illinois University students and Charleston residents. Vehicles picked up/delivered during business hours with advance scheduling. Ensures minimal disruption to daily routines while maintaining service quality standards.
ASE Certified Service
Work performed by ASE-certified professionals with continuous training. Our team maintains technical proficiency through manufacturer programs and industry certifications. Customers receive accurate diagnostics and repairs meeting national quality standards. Certification credentials available for verification upon request.
People
David Johnson
Owner and Operator
Third-generation automotive professional with 30+ years of experience. Graduated from Eastern Illinois University and maintains ASE certification. Expanded the business in 1998 while preserving family values of integrity and community service. Personally oversees daily operations and customer relations.
Questions
What auto repair services do you offer?
We provide complete automotive services including engine repairs, brake work, electrical diagnostics, AC repair, and computer system troubleshooting for all vehicle makes and models.
Are your technicians certified?
Yes, all our technicians hold ASE certifications and participate in ongoing manufacturer training programs to maintain technical proficiency with modern vehicle systems.
Do you offer pickup/delivery for students?
We provide free pickup and delivery service for Eastern Illinois University students during regular business hours with advance scheduling arrangements.
What makes you different from chain shops?
As a family-owned business since 1977, we combine personalized service with technical expertise while maintaining 10% lower labor rates than national franchises.
Do you perform safety inspections?
Yes, we include complimentary safety checks with every service visit, inspecting critical components like brakes, tires, lights, and steering systems.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major credit cards, debit cards, cash, and checks for completed services. Payment terms available for approved commercial accounts.
Reviews (7)
Sandra Fox
Apr 24, 2022 Report
Trustworthy, honest - will explain clearly, fair price, even gave me a courteous ride home so I didn't have to wait while they worked on my car:
Dahlia Martinez
Apr 13, 2022 Report
I usually get my oil changed here and they have decent prices. However, I don't think I will be coming back. I was sitting in the waiting room when an international student came in asking to have his car looked at. Right off the bat two of the employees walked away and refused to listen/serve him. Only the woman working the front took the time to talk to him. As soon as he left the other employees started talking about "those types of people" and saying ignorant things and reiterating stereotypes. The kid just wanted to get his car checked out.
David Stewart
Mar 11, 2022 Report
David and his staff provide excellent, professional service. Would recommend anyone to call Johnson Automotive with their vehicle service needs. Services: Oil change, General repairs & maintenance, Tires
Devon Davis
Jul 24, 2021 Report
So I had some starter issues with my car. Crankshaft and camshaft sensor. They ran a diagnosis and told me that these were my only issues. After paying them $1,000+ to fix these issues I get my car back and there are a bunch of new issues with my car. I had brand new brakes and now the brakes are bad, the AC worked perfect and now I have AC issues, and I also can't accelerate past 40 mph without my car shaking uncontrollably!

All issues that I didn't have before I took my vehicle to this shop. I was told that the first two issues "hid" the long list of other things that were wrong, which is complete BS! They then tried to charge me another $1,000+ to fix these new issues. This place basically tried to rob me! Do not recommend.
Patrick Rule
Jul 05, 2021 Report
First of all, I've known David for a number of decades, and he's an honest and honorable man. I had AC issues, and had asked him to change the compressor. Not only was that not necessary, he traced the problem to a faulty electrical issue, and fixed it much cheaper than it would have been. He did find some other issues that I did not know about, and resolved them as well. He even changed my wiper blades, something I knew I needed, but left off my list. Overall, Johnson's Automotive provides quality professional service, and he treats all of his customers like lifelong friends.
Alex Martens Alex
Dec 09, 2019 Report
I had to get my ac blower fixed in my Acura. Most places wouldn't even look at it since it was an Acura. They fixed it and did it much cheaper than other places in neighboring cities. I've also had tires patched by them. They've always done a great job.
Christina Funderburk
Dec 19, 2018 Report
My son's car broke down and it was at another business in town, we waited 3 days and his vehicle was never moved. They finally admitted they did not know what was wrong with it and they didn't do that kind of work. 3 days later. My son is not big on spending his money for car repair and it had several issues needing addressed that he neglected so I had Steve and his staff fix it all. It was not cheap, as some of the issues were very labor intensive, I expected a big price tag.

It was well worth every penny to ensure my son's safety and my peace of mind. I called Johnson's on a Friday at 4 pm and within the hour, it was picked up and I had an answer and an estimate. They closed for the weekend but I was able to pick it up on Monday, in perfect running order.