Since 1979, Bennie’s Auto Repair, LLC has provided automotive maintenance services to residents of the Poplarville area.
The business started that year by Bennie Tynes and is currently under the ownership of his son, Josh.
Josh Tynes said he took over the business in 2004 after his father suffered a stroke. Even though his father tried to persuade him to seek another career, Josh said being a mechanic was already in his blood.
That’s because he’s been working in his father’s shop since he was 15, learning everything he knows about automotive repair from his father, Josh Tynes said. Today, Josh said he stays current by attending classes and keeping his computer equipment up to date.
Even though the shop has occupied various locations in the Poplarville area, the motto of the business has remained the same, “Quality service and repair since 1979 at a price that’s fair.”
After Josh assumed ownership of the business, his vision was for it to grow. That’s what led to the operation moving to its current location on Enterprise Drive in January of 2016.
Initially, the previous owners were reluctant to sell. So, he started thinking about building a new shop in the Poplarville area. But one day the previous owner of the building on Enterprise Drive brought a vehicle for Josh to look at. In passing, Josh asked the man about having ground broken for the new location. Then the previous owner spoke with his business partner, and sold Josh the current location.
He now has a full service repair shop that employs five full time people, his wife Sommer included.
While he said he and his staff can conduct just about any repair on almost any vehicle, there may be some things they can’t fix. If that’s the case, Josh said he will just let the customer know. One of his goals is to change the negative image of mechanics.
“There are decent guys out there that want to treat customers fairly,” Josh said.
As such, he prides himself on operating a business that allows Poplarville residents to have their vehicle repaired without taking a long drive to a dealership.
The hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Josh said the shop is closed on weekends so he and his wife can maintain a balance between life and work. That time off also allows him an opportunity to continue to coach softball for the Poplarville Athletic Association.
The couple also enjoys providing for the community. Sommer said that at times they will provide free oil changes to teachers.
Bennie’s Auto Repair LLC can be reached by calling 601-795-6370.