Luttrull reflects on Liberty Tires and Auto Service ownership

It was 1995 when Bob Luttrull first came to Liberty Tire and Auto Service in Airway Heights and began working as a mechanic. Fast forward 19 years later and Luttrull is now the owner of the shop.

According to Luttrull, Liberty's previous owner had approached him to purchase the shop back in January 2013. Luttrull bought the business in October.

"He knew I always wanted to run my own shop," Luttrull said.

Prior to becoming the Liberty Tires and Auto Service owner, Luttrull was the manager for three years. He said going from being a "worker in the back" to owner has been different as he works more closely with customers and knows "just about everyone who comes through those doors."

"It's a bigger responsibility, but I enjoy it," Luttrull said.

Although the winter is a slow time, Luttrull said business has increased in the past few month. He has implemented several changes, including military discounts, free shuttle services for local businesses and running specials throughout the year.

Luttrull said the community response has been positive A lot of older customers are coming back after they learned Luttrull became the owner. He also cited the good crew and positive atmosphere as factors that provide a good service.

Luttrull has been in auto service for about 30 years. He graduated from Spokane Community College and graduated with two degrees. His first mechanics job was at the Liberty Tires in Spokane, March 1994. A year later he came to Airway Heights.

Luttrull said he enjoys meeting the people who come to his shop and taking a car that comes in and bringing it back to life.

"You're somewhat like a doctor," Luttrull said. "You give it a heart massage and a jump."

Al Stover can be reached at al@cheneyfreepress.com.