01/10/2026
Thank you, Oxford Chamber of Commerce for sharing about us! We are so thankful to be a part of this community.
💡Member Spotlight💡
Driven by Trust: Hopkins Tire & Auto Repair
In July of 2023, Eric Thayer stepped into a new chapter when he took ownership of Hopkins Tire & Auto Repair, continuing a business long known in the community under retiring owner Larry Hopkins. For Eric, the transition felt natural. With decades of experience in the automotive repair industry, he brought not only experience but a clear sense of purpose. “I’ve been in the industry for about 30 years and just really enjoy serving the community,” Eric says. “Taking over the business has been a pleasure ever since.”
Hopkins Tire & Auto Repair is a full service auto repair shop, handling everything from brakes, tune ups, and suspension work to diagnostics and tires. Customers often arrive through word of mouth, referrals from neighboring businesses, or longtime trust built over years. Eric values interconnectedness. “The community’s been great that way,” he notes. “There’s a lot of referrals back and forth. We really help each other out.”
What truly sets the shop apart is how it treats people. Customer service is the foundation of the business. “We treat people like family,” Eric explains. “In the end it is all about building relationships and treating others the way you would want to be treated.”
In an industry that can feel intimidating or unclear, Hopkins Tire & Auto Repair prioritizes transparency. Every vehicle receives a complimentary digital vehicle health inspection, complete with photos, videos and all the descriptions to help build transparency. “You’re not just taking our word for it,” Eric says. “You can actually see what’s going on with your car, and then it’s your choice how you want to move forward.” Estimates are reviewed clearly, questions are encouraged, and decisions are left with the customer. The goal is educating the customer so they can make a confident decision on what repairs to approve, and the customer can properly maintain their vehicle with no pressure.
Eric’s commitment to the community shows up in small but meaningful ways. He keeps Hot Wheels cars on hand for kids who visit the shop, inspired by memories of his own childhood. “I remember how exciting that was,” he says. “Those little moments matter.” While not something he promotes publicly, Eric is also known for quiet acts of generosity and kindness, helping customers through difficult circumstances when he can. It is done thoughtfully and privately, guided by compassion rather than recognition.
As a newer member of the local chamber, Eric is eager to deepen his involvement and build relationships with other business owners. “Being a part of a chamber of commerce is all new to me,” he says, “but I’m excited to put in the time, get to know people, and really be part of the community.”
At Hopkins Tire & Auto Repair, the mission goes beyond fixing vehicles. It is about honesty, trust, and treating every customer like they matter, because to Eric Thayer, they do.
For more information, visit: https://www.hopkinstireandautorepair.com/
