
HOW IT ALL STARTED
Serving & Growing Since 2001.
CARS Auto Repair was founded in 2001 by Denny Houstra, a West Michigan local and self-described gearhead from his pre-teen days. Denny led a repair business built on integrity and reliability, and word spread fast. Within five years, CARS had outgrown its first location between Jenison and Hudsonville and moved to a new home just off 18th Avenue and Chicago Drive. However, that wasn't the end of our journey.
By 2010, CARS. Auto Repair needed to expand again. Denny and his partner and wife, Sherri, moved the business to a new facility with over twice the space, more lifts, and upgraded equipment. They were able to hire additional mechanics with valuable experience and training, creating the well-rounded team we have today.
As an ASE Certified facility, every one of our technicians is professionally certified, and each brings unique interests and skills to the table to make our customers' experiences better. We look forward to seeing how our team will continue to grow in the future!

OUR CREDENTIALS
Professionally Certified in Auto Repair


A TECHNET Professional Automotive Service Center
TECHNET Professional centers offer the best of the best in auto repair, from certified technicians to the latest technology and the highest-quality materials. As a TECHNET facility, we have pledged to follow a Code of Ethics and hold ourselves to the highest standards of integrity in regards to training, professionalism, and customer service.
Our work is also covered by TECHNET's
Nationwide Warranty, a program honored at thousands of locations across the country.
An ASE Certified Facility
At CARS Auto Repair, we're proud to have earned the honor of certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. This certification indicates not only the level of knowledge and skill held by our individual technicians, but also our commitment to excellence as a team.
MEET THE TEAM
The Heart of Our Business:
Our Excellent Staff

Denny
Owner
Denny Houtstra is a gearhead by every definition. Fixing cars is nothing new for the owner of CARS Auto Repair Service. After all, he’s been tinkering on vehicles for over 30 years. Houtstra is the son of an electrician and spent his early years installing, programming and maintaining self-guided robotic vehicles. Today’s cars and trucks require advanced computer knowledge, something a certified diesel mechanic with a background in computer diagnostics is ideally suited to. Houtstra’s hobby is constructing, driving, and restoring racing cars. Working on high-performance vehicles enhances his skill set in diagnosing, servicing, and rebuilding engines, transmissions, electrical, suspension, and steering systems. He regularly travels to advanced training seminars throughout the country to continue to provide the highest level of expertise and service for your car or truck.

Sherri
Co-Owner
Co-owner of CARS with husband Denny, Sherri manages the front office and works to promote excellent service throughout the business. Her attention to detail and dedication to teamwork and efficiency ensure our customers have a great experience.

Scott
Service Manager
Scott Whittecar has been with CARS since 2010, he is the shop manager and service advisor. He is ASE and State Certified in auto repair and has been in the field since 2004. Having inherited his love of cars from his dad, Scott has had a wrench in his hand his whole life. Following high school, he pursued it as a career and has been working up the ladder, learning, and earning more certifications ever since. In addition to his years of experience, Scott also received training at Career Line Technical Center. Scott leverages his mechanical experience to help drivers understand the issues with their cars and what needs to be done to fix them. Customers always appreciate Scott's professional knowledge and confident answers to their questions.

Shane
Mechanic
Shane has been repairing vehicles since he was a youngster and has worked on an array of vehicles to fine tune his talents. Shane specializes in imports, although he has proven his quality work on virtually all makes and models of cars and light trucks to ensure that CARS meets and hopefully exceeds your expectations!

Alex
Mechanic
Loving cars and knowing the intricacies of an engine don’t always go hand-in-hand, but when they do, you’ll have a mighty fine mechanic on your hands. Alex spent six years providing oil changes and another six working for Ryder Truck Rental before settling into his position at CARS. With Alex’s family already receiving great service for years, it’s no wonder he knew it would be a great fit to join the CARS family.

Casey
Mechanic
Casey has been with CARS. Auto Repair for two years. He is passionate about problem-solving and using the latest diagnostic tools to ensure vehicles run smoothly and safely. He is eager to continue his career as an auto mechanic, applying his skills and learning in a professional shop environment. He prides himself on his attention to detail, strong work ethic, and ability to work efficiently under pressure. When he is not working on cars, Casey enjoys battling in action packed video games, chasing the hotties, and hanging with the bros.

Emily
Customer Service
Emily is the friendly face that greets you as you walk into CARS Auto Repair. With many years of experience in customer service, Emily ensures that every customer feels welcomed and taken care of. She is responsible for scheduling appointments, answering inquiries, and assisting with customer concerns. When Emily is not at the front desk, she enjoys spending time with her family, attending the sporting events of her three children, and riding horses. Emily is committed to making sure your visit to CARS Auto Repair is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Ben
Mechanic
Ben is an entry‑level auto mechanic with a growing foundation in diagnostics and essential systems including brakes, suspension, and maintenance. Ben is newly married and excited to continue to grow in the industry.

Get in Touch
Ready to schedule an auto repair or maintenance visit? Give us a call or fill out our contact form to request an appointment.
