Lilburn Automotive

Inside Larry Johnson's Buckhead Auto Center, vehicles lounge in service bays while ASE-certified and specialty technicians work to foster trouble-free driving. Husband-and-wife team Larry and Bernadette Johnson oversee the staff, which includes Chrysler and luxury-import specialists, as they welcome all makes and models with sturdy wrenches, bottles of motor oil, and a promise that nearby tow trucks will be on their best behavior. The technicians perform oil changes, engine work, and transmission services as well as windshield and dent repair; further cosmetic upgrades may be found in the detail shop, where cars can visit when they need to shake off road filth and slip into a glossy coat of Meguiar's detailing products.

As Sky Express Car Wash’s technicians use recycled water to perform car-wash and detail services, drivers benefit from a 2,000-square-foot lounge filled with entertainment and snacks. Leather chairs and couches provide ample room for relaxation amid a space flanked with a flat-screen TV and free WiFi that pumps through Apple computers at complimentary workstations. While car owners await metal steeds in need of a bath or extensive interior cleaning, they can treat themselves to a self-serve frozen-yogurt bar with more than 50 toppings, as well as a selection of fresh sandwiches and baked goods. In addition to one-time services, Sky Express Car Wash offers monthly and unlimited wash subscriptions to ensure that autos sparkle and drivers stay caffeinated with free barista-brewed Starbucks coffee.

Crowned one of the area's best car washes in 2011 by Gwinnett Magazine, Nexus Auto Detail owes its success to a trustworthy pairing of experienced technicians and quality products from brands such as Meguiar's. Unlike some shops that rely on heavy machinery, the crew at Nexus performs nearly everything by hand in order to avoid putting cars at risk for scratches or other damage. From a swift hand wash to a complete detail, their services ensure pampering for every facet of the vehicular anatomy. Following washes, optional clay treatments gently lift contaminants such as tree sap, metal fragments, dust, and clinging hitchhikers, and headlight restoration helps erase light scratches, yellowing, and oxidation from car eyelids.

While drivers await their roadsters' debuts, they can kick back in comfy seating and sip complimentary coffee as they watch a big-screen TV, surf free WiFi, or peruse magazines in an attempt to beat their personal records for fewest paper cuts in one hour.

Most great things have humble beginnings, and Express Oil Change & Tune-Up Clinic is no exception. In its 31-year history it grew to more than 170 locations across 10 states. Within these auto havens, ASE-certified vehicle-maintenance professionals slake engine thirsts with their signature 10-minute express full-service oil change and a menu of other automotive procedures. Techs swap out old oil for shiny, new oil and a new filter, followed by a thorough inspection of the engine and inner workings that ensures cars can run for miles and won’t fail during drag races through mall parking lots. Their service centers also perform general maintenance such as brake and AC service, and more advanced services such as radiator maintenance and computer diagnostics.