A familiar site on Wabash Avenue is the giant Lauterbach man, who was decapitated by a tornado in 2006 but later restored and still proudly garnishes a popular retail area.
This is not the first year Lauterbach is the winner of Illinois Times' Best Tire Shop recognition. "What a nice validation of what we try to do: provide quality tires at a fair price," said co-owner Mark Lauterbach. He and his mother Jane and brother Brian now operate the business started by his father, Jay Lauterbach, in 1985. Jay died in 2018 and was active in the Springfield community and his industry, serving as president of the Illinois State Tire Dealers Association.
The Springfield store is a certified dealer of Bridgestone, Firestone, Fuzion and Goodyear tires, and it also offers vehicle inspections, auto repairs and oil changes.
The family takes pride in having an owner on site every day and being involved in every daily decision, Mark says, adding that with a comfortable waiting room with WiFi and coffee, "We believe we take a common-sense approach to vehicle repairs and maintenance. We do not push unnecessary repairs. We stand by our parts and service. We treat everyone fairly."
