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1st Choice Automotive, L.L.C.

"Put Our Service To The Test We Are Above The Rest!"

About Us

For more than 12 years, 1st Choice Automotive, L.L.C. has been a trusted name in auto repair for drivers throughout Dowagiac and across Cass, Van Buren, and Berrien counties. Built on a foundation of honesty, craftsmanship, and dependable service, our shop was created to give customers a place they can rely on—whether they need routine maintenance or major repairs.

We offer a full range of automotive services, including oil changes, engine and transmission repairs, electrical diagnostics, fluid flushes, brake services, tire sales, and more. Our ASE Certified technicians are committed to ongoing training to stay up to date with the latest advancements in automotive technology, ensuring every vehicle we service receives accurate diagnostics and quality workmanship. At 1st Choice Automotive, we take pride in doing the job right the first time and treating our customers like family. When you need reliable auto repair you can trust, choose 1st Choice Automotive, L.L.C. in Dowagiac.

Areas Served

Cass County, MI | Van Buren County, MI | Berrien County, MI | 45 Mile Radius

Our Professional Associations

Better Business Bureau A+ Rating
National Federation of Independent Businesses Member for Over 17 Years

Our Certifications

State Certified
ASE Master Certified

What We Offer

Our Specialties include:

As a NAPA Auto Care Center, 1st Choice Automotive, L.L.C. specializes in providing trusted, high-quality repairs backed by a nationwide warranty, giving you confidence wherever the road takes you. Their experienced technicians handle everything from precision alignments and brake services to complex engine and transmission repairs. With expertise in mechanical repairs and advanced electrical work, they use modern diagnostics and proven repair methods to ensure your vehicle is safe, reliable, and performing at its best—every time you visit.

Our Services include:

Engine & Performance Services: From routine maintenance to advanced repairs, we keep your engine running strong and efficiently. Our engine services include tune-ups, repairs, belt replacements, and computer diagnostics to identify issues early and restore peak performance—helping you avoid costly breakdowns down the road.
Oil Changes & Fluid Services: Regular fluid maintenance is essential to the longevity of your vehicle. We offer quick oil changes along with complete fluid services, including coolant flushes and full fluid exchanges, to protect your engine, transmission, and cooling systems while maintaining smooth, reliable operation.
Transmission Services: Whether your vehicle needs a minor adjustment or major transmission repair, our experienced technicians provide accurate diagnostics and dependable solutions to keep your car shifting smoothly and safely.
Diesel Repair: Our team is equipped to service and repair diesel engines with the specialized care they require. From diagnostics to performance repairs, we ensure your diesel vehicle remains powerful, efficient, and dependable.
Heating & Air Conditioning Repair: Stay comfortable in any season with our heating and air conditioning services. We diagnose and repair climate control systems to ensure reliable heating in the winter and cool air during the summer months.
Suspension, Alignment & Steering Services: A smooth, stable ride starts with a healthy suspension system. We provide alignments, suspension repairs, and strut services to improve handling, tire life, and overall ride comfort.
Tire Sales & Services: We offer quality new tires to fit your vehicle and driving needs. Proper tire selection and installation help improve safety, fuel efficiency, and overall performance on the road.
Fuel System Repairs: From gas tank issues to fuel system diagnostics and repairs, we ensure your vehicle is receiving clean, efficient fuel delivery for consistent and reliable performance.
Family Owned & Operated: As a family-owned and operated auto repair shop, 1st Choice Automotive, L.L.C. is built on honesty, trust, and quality workmanship. We treat every customer like family and take pride in delivering dependable service you can count on.

Our Brands include:

NAPA
Jasper
OEM
A/C Delco
And All Other Major Brands

Our Products include:

Engine & Performance Services
Oil Changes & Fluid Services
Transmission Services
Diesel Repair
Heating & Air Conditioning Repair
Suspension, Alignment & Steering Services
Windshield Wipers

Testimonials

On 3/9/2026 TH had this to say:
1st Choice has been my mechanic for over 10 years. Fair pricing and excellent professional service Testimonial written by TH on this site.

On 8/25/2025 Bob T. had this to say:
Top notch service! Quality and value delivered in a quick and easy fashion. I would recommend Keith and his team for all your car maintenance and repair needs.

On 7/30/2025 Jeff Rosen had this to say:
I had never been there before. They were super friendly and when I told them my problem with my car they said they would work on it for me. 4 hours later, it was taken care of and at a very reasonable price. Thank you, 1st choice auto. I definitely recommend them and will use them again.

On 5/18/2025 J R. had this to say:
Went in May 2025 for pads and rotors, previously diagnosed as needed. Solid mechanics with very capable boss and good people in the office. These people are honest and do necessary work on your vehicles without seeking to rip you off like the dealerships do. A pleasure to deal with truthful people who want to make a decent living through real work. You get what you pay for here and feel good about the people you can trust.

On 4/9/2025 Krissy Bell had this to say:
Friendly staff...

Contact Us

1st Choice Automotive, L.L.C.
700 Percy St. Dowagiac, MI 49047
Phone: (269) 782-9874
Fax: (269) 782-0247
Email: firstchoiceautomotive@yahoo.com

Next to the Auto Cam Factory

Where To Find Us

Our Hours

Monday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

FAQ

Are your technicians certified?

Yes. Our technicians are ASE Certified and participate in ongoing training to stay current with the latest automotive technology, tools, and repair techniques.

Can you work with my insurance for any collision repairs?

Yes, we work with most major insurance companies to help manage the claims process for collision repairs.

Do you provide estimates before performing any repairs?

Absolutely, we offer detailed estimates so you can understand the potential costs involved before any work begins.

Do you offer alignments?

Yes, we do alignments to ensure your vehicle's wheels are aligned correctly for optimal performance and safety.

What does the NAPA Nationwide Warranty cover?

Qualifying repairs performed at our shop are covered by NAPA’s nationwide warranty, which provides protection on parts and labor at participating NAPA Auto Care Centers across the country.

How do I know what repairs my vehicle actually needs?

We believe in honest communication and transparency. Our team will walk you through the diagnostic results, explain your options, and answer any questions before any work is performed.

Do you work on major repairs like engines and transmissions?

Yes. Engine and transmission repairs are among our specialties. Our experienced team is equipped to handle everything from minor fixes to major repairs.