A Family Shop with a Heart for Helping People
Serving the Fox Valley Community since 1965
There’s something special about being part of a community for generations, and at Fox River Tire & Auto, we’re proud to say we’ve been doing just that since 1965. This isn’t just where we work, it’s where we live, raise our families, and build relationships that last far beyond a single repair. We’re not a big chain with rotating faces and corporate scripts. We’re a locally and family-owned shop rooted right here in St. Charles, IL, where trust is earned one neighbor at a time.
When you walk through our doors, you’re not just another customer, you’re part of something personal. We greet customers by name, we remember your story, and we care about more than just your car. That’s the kind of service we’ve built our reputation on, and it’s why so many families have stayed with us through multiple generations. Because you’re not just trusting us with your vehicle, you’re trusting us like you would a friend. We don’t take that lightly.
How We Got Our Start and Why We Love What We Do
Fox River Tire & Auto got its start back in 1965 and quickly became a trusted part of the St. Charles community. In May 2014, after 20-plus years of working at major retailers like Firestone and Midas, Kevin Bickford decided it was time for something different, something better. He wanted to be part of a shop where integrity mattered more than hitting quotas.
The shop (FRTA) already had a strong reputation, and when Bickford heard it might be for sale, he reached out to the owner. They shared similar values, had a great conversation, and made a deal. It wasn’t just a business move; it was a chance to keep a good thing going and build on it with a people-first approach. Since then, we’ve been proud to carry that legacy forward with the same honesty and heart this community has counted on for decades.
Why We Do What We Do
Fox River Tire & Automotive is committed to providing high-quality, convenient & comprehensive auto repairs at a competitive cost. We will be committed to earning the trust of our customers by providing them with the expertise, value, and responsiveness they expect and deserve. We will make it our mission to stand as an organization based on integrity and reliability.
The Values That Drive Every Repair and Conversation
Honesty
We want our customers to know when we advise them on needs for the vehicles, we are doing so with the utmost honesty.
Transparency
We want the customer to know why we are recommending the items we have found, so we utilize digital inspections, we pull info from CarFax Maintenance on each individual vehicle to advise them on scheduled maintenance recommendations.
Quality
We employ 4 ASE-certified techs, including 2 ASE Master Technicians. We send our techs to multiple training courses throughout the year to keep them up to date on new technology.
Friendly
We don't have customers or clients, we have friends. We are very personable and treat people with respect. We inform them of what their vehicle needs and how to maintain their vehicle to get the most life out of the second most expensive purchase most of them will ever make.
Trustworthy
We work hard to earn our customers' trust. We are human and not perfect. When we make a mistake, we own it and do what is right by the customer.
Compassionate
We understand there are some people who need help, we have given away over a dozen vehicles to needy families, single moms, or families dealing with disabilities, or hardship. We have a number of widows who we take care of, we let them know, if they need help with anything, and we mean anything, from changing a light bulb in their house to helping them navigate the sale of a vehicle of a loved one who passed, helping them find a plumber, HVAC repairman, electrician, they can call us and we will do anything to help.
What Sets Us Apart And Keeps Folks Coming Back
Nationwide Warranty
3-year/36,000-mile NAPA AutoCare Gold protection for peace of mind on the road.
Certified Expertise
ASE Master Techs and dealer-trained technicians with hands-on know-how and ongoing training.
No-Pressure Advice
If a repair isn’t worth it, we’ll tell you plain and simple.
Real Convenience
Shuttle rides, early drop-off, after-hours pickup, and easy text-to-pay.
Digital Vehicle Inspections (DVIs)
Clear, photo-supported inspections that keep you informed and confident in your repair decisions.
Trusted Certifications
CarFax-certified, RepairPal-certified, and a preferred CarMax warranty vendor.
Rooted in Community
From donating vehicles to helping local families, giving back is part of who we are.
Consistently recognized as one of the Best of the Fox
A trusted name in the community for over 60 years!
We’ve Got You Covered, Even When You’re Stranded
At Fox River Tire & Auto, we understand that vehicle troubles can happen at the most inconvenient times. That’s why we’ve partnered with Marshall’s Towing to ensure that help is just a phone call away. Whether you’re in need of a tow to our shop or assistance getting back on the road, Marshall’s Towing is available to provide fast, reliable service. Just give them a call at 630-584-4447, and they’ll be there to help!
A Shop That Feels Like Home, Come See Why the Fox Valley Trusts Us
From our comfortable waiting area to our shuttle service and after-hours drop-off, we’ve built our shop with you in mind. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, you’ll always get the kind of service you’d offer a friend. Serving the Fox River Valley, including South Elgin, Elburn, Wasco, Wheaton and surrounding areas.
Looking for honest, high-quality auto repair with real people who care? You’ve found your shop. Give us a call at 630-584-0655, stop by at 20 N 17th St, St. Charles, IL 60174, or schedule your appointment online. We’ll be here, ready to help.
