DeKalb, IL - April 10, 2026 - Motor Works, DeKalb's trusted auto repair facility since 1984, continues to redefine what it means to be a dealership alternative in a college town where several major automotive brands have no local representation. Under the leadership of owner Meghan Huber, who purchased the business from her father five years ago, Motor Works has experienced explosive growth while maintaining the family-friendly, education-first approach that has made it a community staple trusted by DeKalb families.
A Legacy Built on Trust, Now Led by the Next Generation
When Meghan's father opened Motor Works in 1984 (the same year she was born), it was a modest three-bay shop focused on honest service and building relationships. Meghan started working in the shop at just eight years old, learning the trade from the ground up. After years as a service writer, she purchased the business five years ago, becoming one of the few female owners in the automotive repair industry. Today, Motor Works has grown to 12 service bays across two buildings, with four ASE Master Certified Technicians and a team culture built on what the shop calls "Grace to Grow."
The shop's philosophy is simple: taking care of people comes before fixing cars. Customers aren't ticket numbers. They're neighbors, friends, and families the team has known for decades.
Bridging the Dealership Gap with Factory-Level Technology
DeKalb presents a unique challenge for drivers of BMW, Nissan, Volkswagen, Mazda, Subaru Acura, Audi, Jaguar, Kia, Land Rover, Lexus, Mini Cooper, and Mitsubishi vehicles: there are no local dealerships for these brands. Motor Works has invested heavily in filling this void, equipping the shop with factory scan tools, OEM-level diagnostic equipment, and an automotive locksmith license for key programming, which are capabilities typically only found at franchised dealerships.
The shop serves everything from daily drivers and fleet vehicles to Asian, European, hybrid, and electric vehicles. Motor Works also operates a dedicated classic car division in a separate building, recognizing that while daily drivers are essential tools that need maintenance, classic cars are true "affairs of the heart."
The "Heart of a Teacher" Approach
What truly sets Motor Works apart is its commitment to customer education. The team uses relatable analogies (comparing oil to blood, ball joints to ball-and-socket joints in the human body, and tire wear patterns to foot pronation) to help customers understand repairs without feeling overwhelmed. They draw diagrams and print pictures for visual learners, ensuring every customer understands exactly what's happening with their vehicle.
This philosophy extends to every customer interaction. Motor Works is proudly kid-friendly and dog-friendly (the shop has its own dog, and neighborhood customers regularly stop by with their pets for treats). The team offers shuttle service, early and late drop-off, and flexible financing through Synchrony Car Care. College students appreciate the honest, no-pressure environment, while parents and older customers are treated like family.
A Culture of Continuous Growth
Motor Works operates under the motto "Grace to Grow," acknowledging that the team (while skilled) is always learning and improving. The staff receives ongoing training and work in a collaborative, supportive environment.
Many team members are foodies, animal lovers, and music enthusiasts who genuinely enjoy spending time together outside of work. This camaraderie translates into better customer service. The shop's commitment to honesty and transparency means owning mistakes, fixing them, and doing better next time.
Community Connections
Motor Works is deeply embedded in the DeKalb community. The shop is located just blocks from Northern Illinois University, serves families from DeKalb, Sycamore, Genoa, Waterman, Hinckley, and Kirkland, and actively participates in the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce, the Chicagoland MG Club, DeKalb County Cruizers, and Turning Back Time Car Club. The shop is also committed to eco-friendly practices and has earned certifications from AAA, NAPA Auto Care, ASA, and the Better Business Bureau.
With a two-year/24,000-mile warranty on qualifying repairs, Hunter alignment and road force balancing equipment, Autel and Snap-On diagnostic tools, and a Picoscope specialist on staff, Motor Works delivers the technical expertise of a dealership with the transparency and warmth of a local shop. After 41 years of service, Motor Works has built a reputation based on a simple truth: taking care of people comes first, and the legacy of honest, reliable service continues to grow.
About Motor Works
Founded in 1984, Motor Works is DeKalb, Illinois's premier, female-owned auto repair facility. Located near Northern Illinois University, the shop features 12 service bays, four ASE Master Certified Technicians, and advanced factory diagnostic equipment. Motor Works prides itself on being a dealership alternative for all makes and models, from daily drivers to classic cars, delivered with transparency, education, and a family-friendly touch.
Media Contact:
Meghan Huber, Owner
Motor Works
316 E Taylor St, DeKalb, IL 60115
Phone: 815-756-2882
Email: meg@motorw.com
Website: www.motorw.com
Media Contact
Company Name: Motor Works
Contact Person: Meghan Huber, Owner
Email: Send Email
Address:316 E Taylor St
City: DeKalb
State: IL
Country: United States
Website: https://www.motorw.com/
