The month of November will mark ten years of service in Parker County for one automotive institution. Ernie’s Tire and Automotive has doled out countless oil changes, tire rotations, and returned thousands of vehicles safely to the road. For this family-owned business, the decade is best measured by an intricate web of relationships built with the people of Weatherford.
“This milestone is a big accomplishment and proof of our hard work,” says Anthony Pena, Ernie’s son and business manager. “Most companies don’t make it this long, and it shows that our sacrifices have paid off.”
Founded by Ernie Pena in 2016, the Weatherford shop was established on years of automotive experience. Ernie founded the business with a commitment to providing dependable service. It flourished and has branched into a trusted local business that offers comprehensive care.
The shop provides for the gamut of car needs, including oil changes, routine maintenance, automotive repairs, tires, wheel services, alignments, and other essential services. The multi-generational team believes customers return because they are treated with attention to detail.
“We earn trust through continued honesty and our ability to provide a personal experience,” Ernie says.
In a realm where trust is paramount, Ernie, Anthony, and Ernie’s right-hand man and manager, Dwight Copeland, have an extensive customer base. Ernie explains that vehicle repairs can often be surprising and bring uncertainty for customers, but the team prioritizes educating their customers on what a vehicle needs so each individual can make an informed decision.
As the fall months see plummeting temperatures and holiday travel approaches, the team is encouraging drivers to be mindful of their vehicles. Anthony explains that warning lights, unusual noises, and changes in the way a vehicle handles should not be ignored despite a busy schedule. Routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations can help extend a vehicle’s life.
“The most common maintenance mistake is waiting too long to complete services, which can create even more issues,” Ernie says.
Drivers should inspect their tires weekly and maintain a consistent rotation and balancing schedule. Vibrations while driving and uneven or excessive tread wear may signal that tires need to be rotated or replaced. Before a long road trip, motorists should check all fluids and the pressure in every tire, including the spare, and look for visible leaks. Dwight recommends having basic tools and emergency supplies in the vehicle.
After a decade in business, the team is proud of how far the shop has come, but their focus remains on the road ahead.
This November, the Pena family is celebrating the employees who helped build the business, the customers who trusted them with their vehicles, and the Weatherford community that made 10 years possible. It’s taken the support of a village to achieve such a rare accomplishment for a small, family-owned automotive business.
“It means a great deal to me to be part of a great team and to give back to the city of Weatherford,” Anthony says. ”Our goals are to continue improving, learn new skills, and give back to the community.”
The shop’s anniversary offers an opportunity to reflect on a decade of repairs. It represents early mornings meeting with customers, long days in the shop, and the loyalty of the Parker County community that has allowed the business to grow alongside Weatherford. Each returning driver and word-of-mouth referral has helped develop Ernie’s original vision into a longstanding institution.
Ernie’s Tire and Automotive helps Parker County drivers keep their vehicles safe, dependable, and ready for the road ahead. To learn more or schedule service, call 817-550-6790 or schedule online. Walk-ins are always welcome.
Ernie’s Tire and Automotive will celebrate its anniversary on November 14 with a car show, food trucks, face painting, giveaways, a raffle, and more.
"We earn trust through continued honesty and our ability to provide a personal experience."