About Us

Community Conscious CAR CARE

Family Owned & Operated

At CoAuto, we’re more than just an auto repair shop—we’re a vibrant, community-focused team passionate about creating an exceptional experience for our customers. Sure, we’re known for our energy and enthusiasm, but what truly sets us apart is how we connect with our clients and each other.

Our team is always finding fun and innovative ways to engage with our customers and build stronger relationships. We hold weekly meetings filled with team-building exercises that not only lighten the mood but also strengthen our bonds. This positive energy spills over into our customer interactions, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes every visit enjoyable. The smiles our customers leave with are the same smiles we carry with us every day.

The moment you step into our facility at 2155 Dickerson Road, you’ll know you’re in the right place—but you might do a double-take. CoAuto is unlike any repair shop you’ve ever visited. Our beautiful waiting area is filled with lush plants, local art, handmade jewelry, ceramics, large paintings, and photography. We’ve created a space that’s as full of personality as the people who visit us.

Cleanliness is a priority here, and it’s one of the first things you’ll notice. We maintain a quiet, relaxing waiting room where you can unwind while we service your vehicle. And because we know our customers appreciate the little things, we offer complimentary coffee, tea, and snacks to enjoy during your visit. With our bright white lighting, amazing murals, and unbeatable shop culture, CoAuto truly stands out in the industry.

Coauto Has 5 Programs That Set Us Apart:

At CoAuto, we believe in giving back to our community and making a difference. Here are five programs that highlight our commitment to our customers and our local area:

Car Giveaway Program

Each year, CoAuto donates a car to a local veteran in need, selected by the Veterans Resource Center of Nevada. We’re honored to provide reliable transportation to those who have served our country.

High School Internship Program

We invite local high school students to visit our shop and shadow our technicians, offering mentorship and a glimpse into a possible career in auto repair. We believe the future lies in the hands of our community’s youth.

Community Education Program

CoAuto hosts classes and workshops on automotive education, maintenance, and basic knowledge, empowering our community to make informed decisions about their vehicles. Classes are held quarterly for $40, with a $20 CoAuto cash rebate on the next service. Custom classes are also available upon request.

Local Art Display Program

We showcase local talent by displaying artwork in our customer waiting area. CoAuto doesn’t take commissions on art sales; instead, we simply enjoy giving our creative community a platform for promotion and exposure.

Reverse Your Carbon Footprint Program

In partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation, CoAuto plants one tree for every oil change we perform. This initiative is our way of contributing to a healthier planet and helping to reverse our carbon footprint.

Meet Our Team:

Vinnie Lucido

Owner

Vinnie’s passion for life & creativity was influenced by his loving parents and siblings. He grew up largely in the Tahoe/Reno area and recognized his passion for the outdoors at a young age. It was through the experiences in the wild that he became at one with nature & recognized his truth. You might ask how is this relevant to community and professionalism? Well as Vinnie would tell you, that was the inspiration that led him to begin guiding others into the wild and into their own fears. It was through guiding whitewater river tours, guiding snowmobile tours, & teaching the art of Yoga that Vinnie found his passion for helping others find their truth & seeing beyond himself.

On the inside CoAuto is full of culture and great people. Vinnie is unique when it relates to what’s typical. Pulling from his yoga practice, he encourages breath work, meditation, yoga and team building exercises. Vinnie lives life with presence, always living in the now, he shares this goal with his crew. Vinnie understands the present is all we truly have, so slow down and feel, he says. Looking inward vs. outward is a philosophy he shares on a constant basis as it’s all too often we seek something outside ourselves when the answer lies within. Sharing these values and others such as the Rotary 4 Way Test, or being extraordinary in everything you say and do. Vinnie’s company is full of passionate, dedicated and happy people. Vinnie says it’s quite amazing that when he leaves for a trip and returns there are always multiple 5 star reviews sharing how his staff went above and beyond to satisfy and embrace our clients. As a business owner there is nothing more to ask for other then taking care of themselves 1st and foremost. He shows up with nothing but love and light and is always willing to lend a helping hand.

Mark Payne, Service Manager

Mark Payne

Shop Manager

I have been in the industry over 25 years not just because I love cars, but more because I am a true people person who loves to help people. I work at CoAuto because the owner and employees feel the same way.

In my spare time, I enjoy sharing my hobbies and passions with my family and friends. Art, music, golfing, skateboarding, snowboarding, gardening, cooking, and recently mountain biking.

This summer, I plan to do these things and spend as much time in the water as I can, whether that be my family's favorite spot on the Truckee River or up at Lake Tahoe. If I'm lucky, I would like to take my family on an out-of-town adventure ... or three.

Nile Bremser

Lead Service Advisor

Originally from Wisconsin, I’m a Job Corps graduate with additional training in Automotive Technology from TMCC. I’ve been working in the automotive industry for 18 years, gaining experience at service stations, dealerships, and independent repair shops. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outdoors—camping, fishing, and tackling home improvement projects. This summer, I’m looking forward to road-tripping with my wife and relaxing in nature.

Clayton Sterling

Service Advisor

I have been in the automotive and diesel repair industry since 2006. I started as a parts/errand runner for my family's big rig tractor & trailer repair shop where they specialized in repairing diesel semis and trailers. Over the years I have learned basically every aspect of the automotive and diesel repair industry including office and shop management. I love working in smaller family-owned type businesses that give you the opportunity to not only build strong relationships with co-workers but also have a more connected experience with the customers that build a long-lasting relationship. CoAuto embodies the family and customer values that make a company great to work for!

I was born in West Texas and grew up on a cotton farm and ranch. I have lived in Reno since 1989 and love this area for all of the outdoor opportunities available right in our back yard. I still enjoy going back to Texas yearly to escape the busy life and relax on the ranch while hunting and fishing. This summer will be no different than most for me. I try to spend as much time outdoors with my family and try to get the float tube in any body of water I can fish out of!!!

Geoff Walsh, ASE Master Technician

Geoff Walsh

ASE Master Technician

Brenton Smelser ASE Master Technician

Brenton Smelser

ASE Master Technician

Cris Castillo, Technician

Cris Castillo

Technician

Zoe Murkovich, Quality Control Specialist

Zoe Murkovich

Quality Control Specialist

Jeremy Hunt

Lube Technician

Jodee Smith, Book Keeper

Jodee Smith

Book Keeper

I started working for CoAuto in the summer of 2021 after relocating from Southern California. Back home I was the bookkeeper for my husband's Chiropractic business and taught group exercise since

1984. We have two children and one grandchild who all live here in Reno.

This summer I look forward to trips to Lake Tahoe and motorcycle rides with my husband. We live in an active 55 older community where pickleball is a "thing" love karaoke nights and summer music events.

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