Welcome to Vern Laures Auto Center Auto Repair & Service Shop: your trusted auto service provider in Northeast Iowa! For over 60 years, Vern Laures Auto Center has been the go-to destination for high-quality automotive services and accessories for drivers in New Hampton, Charles City, and the surrounding areas. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our 4.9-star rating with over 700 reviews, underscoring our reputation for providing great quality service, fair prices, and being the easiest team to work with.
Whether you need a routine oil change, tire services, brakes, transmission repair, car battery replacement, wheel alignment, or cabin filter changes, our skilled technicians are equipped to handle all your automotive needs. We use state-of-the-art equipment and the latest techniques to ensure your vehicle and accessories receive the best care possible.
Experience why Vern Laures Auto Center is the trusted shop in automotive services and accessories in Northeast Iowa. We’re here to help keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely, and looking great!
Auto Services Offered at Our New Hampton Service Center
General Maintenance
Staying on your manufacturer’s maintenance schedule is the single best thing you can do for the long-term health of your vehicle. That means more than just oil changes. Fluid levels, air and cabin filters, wiper blades, belts, hoses… these things wear out on a timeline, and falling behind adds up quickly. Bring your vehicle in and we’ll pull up your specific maintenance schedule and tell you exactly where you are.
Oil Change
Modern automotive engines generally have extended oil-change intervals beyond 3,000 miles. Check the recommended maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual, or give us a call to find out what’s best for your vehicle.
Brake Repair & Replacement
Brake pads typically require replacement every 25,000 to 70,000 miles. This frequency depends on several factors, including your driving habits, the local environment, and the specific materials used in the pads.
Tire Center
Your tires should be inspected routinely to ensure they remain at the recommended PSI and the tread depth isn’t below the minimum legal limit of 2/32 inch. If the tread is too low, it is time to replace your tires.
Battery Replacement
While batteries can last up to 5 years with proper maintenance, we typically recommend replacement every three years under normal driving conditions for optimal performance and reliability.
Transmission Service
The transmission is the powerhouse that keeps your vehicle running. Our specialized maintenance ensures smooth shifting and peak performance while protecting you from avoidable, high-cost repairs down the road.
Wheel Alignment
We recommend wheel alignments every two to three years, or whenever you install new tires on your vehicle. The exact timing may vary based on your personal driving conditions.
Parts Department
We stock both OEM and quality aftermarket parts, and if we don’t have your part in stock, we’ll order it. We also carry and install a full range of truck accessories, from Tonneau covers and bed liners to mud flaps, WeatherTech floor mats, and more.
Learn More ›Serving Vehicle Owners Across Northeast Iowa
From heavy-duty diesel truck repairs and 4WD SUV maintenance to commuter car oil changes, we handle the specific needs of Northeast Iowa drivers. Whether you drive a Ford, GMC, Buick, or anything else, our technicians can handle your routine care and most repairs.
Our service center is located in New Hampton, but we work on vehicles from across the region including Charles City, Cresco, Waverly, Decorah, West Union, Osage, and beyond. Drivers make the trip because they know what they’re going to get: fair prices, honest work, and a team that’s been doing this long enough to have earned the trust of their neighbors.
Most routine services are completed without a long wait. We know you’ve got a farm to run, a job to get back to, or kids to pick up. We respect your time.
If you’re not sure whether it’s worth the drive, read our reviews. Then give us a call.
What Our Service Customers Say
Schedule an Appointment at Our New Hampton Service Center Today
Call our Service Department directly during business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. A service advisor will get you set up quickly. If you submit a form on our website, a team member will follow up with a phone call to confirm your appointment and get you on the schedule.
Call to Schedule: 866-239-0371
Service Hours
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Friday | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |
Frequently Asked Questions at Our New Hampton Auto Service Center
Do you service all makes and models, or just the brands you sell?
We service all makes and models, not just Chevrolet, RAM, Jeep, and Chrysler. If you have a specific question about your vehicle before coming in, give us a call and we’ll let you know upfront.
Do you service diesel trucks and 4WD?
Yes, our technicians are trained in heavy-duty truck maintenance and 4x4 system repairs for all major makes and models.
What is the $3,000 rule for cars?
The “$3,000 rule” for cars is a maintenance guideline suggesting that if your annual repair costs exceed $3,000 (roughly $250/month) on an older vehicle, it is more economical to replace it. This threshold helps owners of cars with over 150,000 miles avoid “money pits” and switch to a vehicle with more predictable, lower costs.
How do I schedule a service appointment?
The easiest way is to call our service department directly at 866-239-0371 during business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. A service advisor will get you set up quickly. If you submit a form on our website, a team member will follow up with a phone call to confirm your appointment and get you on the schedule.