One Stop. One Team. Two Trusted Names.
By Jody Robinson
Most of us don’t spend much time thinking about auto repair – until we need it. Whether it’s a collision, a strange noise under the hood, or routine maintenance, finding someone you trust can make an already stressful situation a little easier.
For Peter Capdevielle, building that trust has been the heart of his work for more than 30 years.
“When you love what you do, it shows,” Peter says. “I’ve always loved cars, but what has kept me in this business is helping people. We treat every customer with honesty, respect, and professionalism.”
For the past two decades, Peter has owned and operated the Maaco Auto Body & Paint Center in Lake Forest, providing expert collision repairs and complete paint jobs at affordable prices for all makes and models, including motor homes. Last year, he expanded the business by bringing Meineke Car Care to the same location, creating a full-service automotive center where customers can have both collision repairs and mechanical work completed under one roof.
“It just makes life easier for people,” he says. “Whether it’s body work after an accident or routine maintenance, our customers don’t have to visit multiple shops.”
Knowing You Have a Choice
One of the biggest surprises Peter shares with new customers has nothing to do with repairing cars.
“After an accident, many people assume they have to take their vehicle to the body shop their insurance company recommends,” he says. “What most people don’t realize is they have the legal right to choose any repair shop they want.”
That choice can make a significant difference.
Many insurance-recommended shops operate under agreements with insurance carriers. Peter’s shop doesn’t.
“Our responsibility is to our customer – not the insurance company,” he explains. “Our job is to repair the vehicle properly and safely while helping our customers navigate the claims process. We advocate for them because they’re the ones we’re working for.”
That customer-first philosophy has helped build lasting relationships with families throughout South County, many of whom have relied on Peter and his team for years.
National Brands. Local Commitment.
While Maaco and Meineke are nationally recognized brands with decades of experience, Peter believes it’s local ownership that truly sets his business apart.
“We’re part of this community,” he says. “Our reputation matters because these are our neighbors.”
Every repair is backed by a nationwide warranty, giving customers added confidence wherever they travel. More importantly, Peter says, his experienced team understands that every vehicle represents someone’s daily life, and getting it repaired correctlyr – and as quickly as possibler – matters.
After more than three decades in the automotive industry, Peter says the most rewarding part of the job hasn’t changed.
“It’s seeing customers come back year after year and knowing they trust us enough to recommend us to their family and friends,” he says. “That’s something we never take for granted.”
