My training history begins in 1984, on a cold December day, when I first got behind the wheel of a racing go-kart. In that instant I knew that I loved racing, cars and all that made them go. That love affair led to racing cars in the SCCA and motorcycles in the AMA, more importantly, it was what drove my obsession with knowing every technical detail of everything and anything. I continued on to the University of Florida, studying Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science and Materials Engineering. These were the cornerstones of vehicle development and that fueled my desire even more. I also was a member of the Formula SAE race design team. Our job was to build the best (read: "fastest") formula race car while following a strict rule book. After retiring from racing, I continued to build race bikes for customers, including engine blue printing and suspension valving. I also ended up fixing my motorcycle cutomers' automobiles... many times after they were unable to have them repaired at local dealerships. I decided to expand my horizons and began my automobile repair career in early 2000.

My time at Mitsubishi was a time of great transformation and where I had the opportunity to take part in an apprenticeship with a Master Elite Technician (there are only 60 in the U.S). I was immediately immersed in the Mitsubishi training program and introduced to the lead technician that would mentor me during my time there. I owe a tremendous amount of gratitude to Bobby Schultz, probably the finest Mitsubishi technician the United States has ever seen. He was gifted, generous, and a good friend who is missed by everyone that had the pleasure of knowing him. After some time at Mitsubishi, I became a master technician and also took part in all the factory Lancer Evolution courses. In comparison to other car manufacturer courses that I have taken, I can assure you that Mitsubishi training is a step above their Japanese competitors. Technical study is important, but they believe in technicians who can translate thoughts and ideas into action. I took part in, passed and mastered every course Mitsubishi had to offer during my time with them. Mitsubishi is proud to stuff as much technology as possible into every one of their vehicles and they expect their technicians to be able to handle ANYTHING. It is for this reason alone that any owner of a Mitsubishi vehicle should not let anyone but a Mitsubishi factory trained technician work on their car. Based on my experience, it also means that if a technician can work on a Mitsubishi, he can work on anything.

Despite my love of all things Mitsubishi, I decided to accept a job offer to work for a Toyota dealership in 2008. From day one, I was immersed in Toyota’s certified factory training. Because of my college education and previous automotive work experience I excelled and surpassed every Toyota course and test, including those for full hybrid certification. While at Toyota I was offered a job to work directly for the Toyota technical department, but I declined because I preferred to work on cars rather than talking about them. Ultimately, I decided to leave my job at the dealership because my beliefs were no longer aligned with their customer service philosophy. I made the decision to go out on my own and to bring my detailed and technical services directly to my customers.

I am an ASE certified master technician in addition to having mastered all Mitsubishi and Toyota training. My intimate knowledge of Toyota, Mitsubishi and Lexus means a great deal when it comes to maintaining and repairing your vehicle, however it doesn't limit me to only those vehicles. I also have a great deal of experience with all Japanese and American vehicles, VW and many more makes.

I hope to see you soon!
Sincerely,
Larry Dodson
Owner, Turn 9 Automotive
Certified Toyota*, Mitsubishi*, ASE Master Technician