RODRIGUEZ AUTO PARTS
It was about 1970 when the Rodriguez family learned of a great business opportunity – a gas station-car wash for sale in the rapidly developing Tutu section of St. Thomas. Most of the neighbors were cows, in fact, just a few years before, the land the station stood on had housed a chicken farm. But things were changed fast. Antonio and Edith Rodriguez bought the station in 1971 and by 1972 their son Enrique moved down with his family to help run the operation. The company grew and opened a automotive parts store, then added tires. Today, because of internet competition the company no longer sells parts. The company is basically a tire and battery operation and only special ordering parts.Buying tires or batteries online is not cost effective for our consumers because of added shipping and installation costs to their orders, they realize that aren’t saving money. And meanwhile, they’re losing time as they wait for the tires to be delivered. We do carry basically all brands, but are the official on island representative for BFGoodrich, Michelin, Cooper, Uniroyal, Giti, and Runway. Plus we order Pirelli, Yokohama, Mickey Thompson or any brand you can think of for a price that beats our online competition once you add stateside state tax, shipping and installation costs.
From the start, the family has hired many of its workers just out of high school and trained them, as Rodriguez put it, before they could pick up bad habits elsewhere.
“We try to instill a sense of direction in our employees,” he said. “We teach them how to treat customers and to have pride in themselves and in their work. We tell the tire guys, ‘your job is as important as a doctor’s. You hold someone’s life in your hands.”
Some workers have stayed with the business, and many have moved on and up, he said. About 20 “alumni” have joined the V.I. Police Department, others became fire fighters; several had distinguished military careers. There are also a few former commissioners and senators among the ranks, and at least one NASA official.
Support Local and buy Local.
Our mission
Our values
- Family First: Our business is family-owned and operated, and we believe in treating all of our customers like family.
- Expertise: With 50 years of experience in the automotive industry, we are committed to staying up-to-date with the latest technology and techniques to ensure that our customers receive the best possible service.
- Customer Satisfaction: Our top priority is ensuring that our customers are completely satisfied with their experience at our shop.
- Honesty and Integrity: We believe in conducting our business with honesty and integrity, and we always strive to do the right thing, even if it is not the easiest or most profitable option.
- Community Involvement: As a long-standing member of our island community, we are committed to giving back and supporting local organizations and initiatives.
- Continuous Improvement: We are always looking for ways to improve and grow, both as individuals and as a business, in order to better serve our customers and community.