Spotlight on EGF: Kyle’s Customs LLC
Today I am talking with Kyle Grochow, owner of Kyle’s Customs LLC! After chatting with Kyle, it was obvious they take pride in staying one step ahead in the automotive world. They work on all years, makes, and models—no project is too big or too small. They do everything from routine maintenance to complete engine replacements.
If you are looking to elevate your vehicle’s look or performance, they specialize in custom upgrades tailored to your vision. From LED gauge cluster swaps in any color and heated seat installations, to blinker-integrated mirrors and advanced performance modifications, they can make it happen! As a car owner with heated seats, I highly recommend them! Have Kyle’s team install them if your car doesn’t have them! You’ll thank me come January!
I asked Kyle for a quote and he said, “When it comes to horsepower, we believe in solutions designed specifically for your vehicle’s needs. After all, as Carroll Shelby once said: “There is never enough horsepower… just not enough traction.” So of course, I had to look Shelby up! He was an American entrepreneur, racing
driver, and automotive designer, if you like cars, you probably already know about him, but if you don’t, check him out, amazing guy.
Kyle has always known he wanted to be a mechanic. Back when he was in kindergarten, the class was asked to draw a picture of what they wanted to be when they grew up, and he drew himself as a mechanic.
Kyle is a perfect example of the American Dream, you have a vision and you work hard to achieve that. He started his auto shop out of a one-stall garage at his house, working nights and weekends while still holding a full-time job. Then he hired his first employee, while continuing to work full time and with his commitment to nights and weekends, the business quickly took off.
Eventually, he took the leap, quit his job, and committed to the shop full time. The two of them built such a strong customer base that they quickly outgrew his garage and moved into a larger space at Home of Economy in Grand Forks.
With a smile, he said, “the team continued to grow. We brought on two more skilled technicians, a dedicated secretary, and an outstanding maintenance man. As business expanded even further, it wasn’t long before we needed yet another upgrade in space. That’s when we added two more excellent secretaries to the team.
Today, things are better than ever, and we’re incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received. It’s because of our customers and our hardworking crew that we’ve been able to grow, and we’re proud to keep serving the East Grand Forks area.”
I researched some of his YouTube Videos, the link is listed below for that and for their Facebook page. I asked him what his funniest moments on camera were and he replied, “during a runaway diesel. The tech and I took off running, and my shop dog saw us and decided he was part of the action, so he took off running right alongside us!”
So, of course, I had to ask what a diesel engine runaway is! It happens sometimes in diesel engines, when the engine draws excessive fuel from an unintended source and overspeeds at higher RPMs. I can only imagine how loud that is ?
I always like to ask about customer service to get a feel for the company and after talking with Kyle and his staff, I now have Kyle’s entered in my phone in case I have car trouble! At the heart of the shop’s success is the staff who is known not only for their skill but also for their compassion. Customers often share stories of the team going above and beyond, whether it’s staying late to finish a repair so someone has their vehicle back when they need it most, or offering rides within a 20-mile radius to ensure no one is left stranded. They take the time to listen, explain repairs clearly, and treat every car like it’s their own.
They know that car trouble doesn’t just affect transportation, it affects people’s lives. They listen carefully to their customers and make sure they answer with understanding and compassion. The shop also shows appreciation for the community by offering a 10% labor discount to first responders, members of the military, healthcare workers, teachers, and students.
I asked him what he thought makes EGF a great community and he said, “East Grand Forks is the kind of place where neighbors wave, kids can play outside safely, and the whole community feels like family. It’s a small town with a big heart; low crime, great schools, and plenty of parks and trails to enjoy. Whether you’re walking along the Greenway, grabbing a bite downtown, or cheering at a local game, you’ll feel the welcoming spirit that makes East Grand Forks such a special place.”
Kyle, it was a pleasure!
The business is located at 1820 Central Ave NW, phone number is 218-203-3301
https://www.youtube.com/@grocksontherocks
https://www.facebook.com/kylescustomsllc/