Volz Automotive was started in the Northern California town of Grass Valley in 1982 by John Volz Sr. after moving his family from Southern California to fulfill his dream of owning his own business. With 10 years of automotive dealership experience, the journey began. John Sr.'s expertise in Japanese cars — specifically Subaru — helped create a foundation for decades to come. His passion for the environment led to early recycling protocols for oil filters, antifreeze, and freon, making Volz Automotive one of the first shops in the region to do so. Volz Automotive credits their 43-year relationship with their local NAPA retailer as being at the core of their success.

Fast forward to 2005: John Sr.'s son, John Jr., became the future of the family business. Armed with an MBA and 8 years in the auto parts industry — including time at Toyota and managing two large NAPA stores — John Jr. revamped the shop's systems, streamlined productivity, and secured a new location. He brought his sister Michelle on board as well, drawing on her decade-plus of NAPA experience. When John Sr. retired in 2020, he left the business in very capable hands. "Although he's retired, it's great to know that I can call my Dad and bounce ideas off of him or work through a challenging car issue with him." — John Volz Jr.

"We have had a lot of key employees who play a role in our success, as well as vendors like our parts suppliers, but none more important than our NAPA family. Our customers are also the cornerstone of our success — with generation after generation putting their trust in Volz Automotive. Our customers are our friends and family, and our resilience through COVID and other economic challenges are a direct reflection of that. Word of mouth advertising is priceless." — John Volz Jr. Volz Automotive has tripled its sales figures since 2020 and is thriving and excited about the future.

One of the things John Jr. takes very seriously is investing in his team. He is proud of a compensation plan that includes company-funded health, dental, and vision care, a company-funded retirement plan, two weeks of paid vacation, 10 paid holidays, funded training, and college reimbursement. "When you invest in your employees, your organization becomes a machine that runs and recruits itself. My employees are fiercely competitive and have the highest standards I have ever seen in this business. They are true professionals, and never stop chasing something — certifications, smog licenses, technical knowledge, extreme productivity and quality." — John Volz Jr.

Volz Automotive is also known for extensive community involvement spanning 43 years. The shop has donated over 100 cars to families in need and provides approximately $50,000 in free auto repair annually to individuals and organizations. Community partners include KVMR Radio, Hospitality House, Bear Yuba Land Trust, Project H.E.A.R.T, and Bright Futures for Youth. "Yes we repair cars, but most importantly we build relationships. A strong community supports a strong business." — John Volz Jr.