RepairPal Certified Shop, Pulse Auto Care, led by Jillian Fredericks and Rick Robertson, brings a passion for problem-solving and a commitment to integrity to the Plainfield, IL auto repair scene. What started as a hobby over 28 years ago has evolved into a career built on diagnostic expertise, family values, and transparent service. At Pulse Auto Care, the focus is on building lasting relationships—not pushing services—and earning trust with every visit.
1. How did you get into the automotive industry?
“After 28 years, what began as a hobby has evolved into my life’s work. I find immense satisfaction in diagnosing and solving problems, especially when faced with challenging repairs. The thrill of overcoming difficult issues and finding effective solutions is what makes each day exciting.”
Jillian’s love for cars and knack for diagnosing tough issues turned into a full-time mission: to deliver reliable, honest auto repair while building a business rooted in trust and community.
2. What do you want your shop to be known for?
“Honesty is at the heart of what we do. In an industry where customers often face misleading practices, we stand out by cultivating personal relationships and earning your trust through transparent practices. We’re committed to treating each customer with integrity and respect.”
Pulse Auto Care is committed to truthful service and no-pressure repairs. Jillian and her team take the time to explain what your vehicle needs—and nothing it doesn’t—because they believe auto care should never feel intimidating.
3. How do you differentiate your shop from other repair facilities?
“Our facility is both clean and welcoming. We pride ourselves on providing information about your vehicle’s condition without any sales pressure. Our focus is on fostering long-term relationships with our customers rather than pushing unnecessary services. Your trust and satisfaction are our top priorities.”
From a welcoming environment to a no-sales-pressure approach, Pulse Auto Care is different by design. The goal? To make every customer feel confident, comfortable, and well-informed.
4. Is your shop involved in the local community or auto community?
“Each year, we host ‘Pictures with the Easter Bunny,’ an event where customers and local residents are invited to bring their families and pets for photos, coffee, and donuts—all free of charge. While the event itself is complimentary, we welcome donations, with all proceeds benefiting Help Save Pets. Additionally, this event doubles as a pet adoption day, offering a wonderful opportunity to find a new furry friend.”
Pulse Auto Care brings joy to the community through their annual Easter Bunny event, blending fun with purpose by supporting local animal welfare efforts and promoting pet adoption.
5. What strategies have you found most effective for retaining customers?
“Delivering quality work and maintaining consistent follow-up with our customers are the most effective ways to build lasting relationships and ensure customer retention.”
With a target of ensuring one-time customers make up no more than 15% of their clientele, Pulse Auto Care is all about quality work, honest follow-up, and long-term relationships.
6. What tools or software do you rely on to manage your shop’s operations efficiently?
“Tekmetric, Bolt On Technology, and RepairPal.”
These tools help Pulse Auto Care streamline operations, improve communication, and enhance transparency so customers are always informed and confident in their repair decisions.
7. Can you share a success story where your shop went above and beyond for a customer?
Google Review:
“My wife and I can personally attest that the five-star rating that you see is not a scam. Rick and Jillian run an incredible company, from the customer service to the work done on your car. Everything is top notch. They aren’t trying to upsell you and they will always give you the honest truth in estimates. We’ve NEVER trusted an auto shop until I came here.”
Lastly and most important of all to us is their belief in family—which is clear not only from their own family, but also how they treat their customers. Thank you all for all you’ve done for us, and I hope this helps you bless others with the great work you do.”
Once the car was in our hands, we quickly diagnosed the issue. After replacing a part, it unfortunately failed within a few days due to a manufacturing defect. Understanding their frustration, we prioritized their repair, covered everything under warranty, and had them back on the road quickly.
At our shop, we understand that things don’t always go as planned, but when issues arise, we make it right.”
This glowing review speaks volumes about the integrity, honesty, and family values behind Pulse Auto Care.
8. In what ways do you encourage feedback from employees on improving customer satisfaction and workplace morale?
“We keep an open line of communication with our employees. If there is ever an issue, good or bad, it’s a group conversation. We value everyone’s input.”
Pulse Auto Care believes in team collaboration, encouraging open dialogue to improve operations and morale—because a great customer experience starts with a strong team.
9. What is your proudest achievement as an auto shop owner?
“You’re only as good as your technicians. A quality repair facility cannot thrive without quality employees.”
For Jillian, her proudest achievement is building a team that’s not only technically excellent but also genuinely cares about the people and pets who walk through their doors.
10. What advice would you give to someone just starting out in the auto repair business?
“Our goal is to ensure that one-time customers account for no more than 15% of our total clientele.”
Jillian’s advice? Focus on long-term relationships, not just one-off repairs. Build your business on honest service, open communication, and community trust.
Where Trust Drives Every Repair
At Pulse Auto Care, you’ll find a team that believes in quality over quantity, honesty over upsells, and people over profits. Whether it’s through their community outreach or expert diagnostics, this RepairPal Certified Shop continues to raise the bar for auto repair in Plainfield, IL.
