Ask The Expert

Tony Padron, General Manager

Tony has 2 Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifications. One as an ASE Master Technician and the other an ASE Advanced Level Specialist. He has been a certified Master Technician since 1987. He is also a State of California, Bureau of Automotive Repair, Smog Check Test and Repair Technician. He also has various certifications for General Motors, Ford, Chrysler, Toyota, Honda and Nissan vehicles and many other certifications dealing with specific systems on multiple lines of vehicles. Tony attends 3 to 4 trainings every year in order to keep up with today’s rapidly changing automobiles.

Upon graduation from high school, Tony attended Arizona Automotive Institute (AAI). At AAI, Tony went through 1 year of extensive training on all facets of the mechanical workings of an automobile. After completing his training at AAI, Tony’s first job was at a corporate chain store where brake and suspension work made up the bulk of his duties. In a short time he was able to master brake and suspension systems and was quickly promoted until he finally ended up managing the store in which he got his start. Looking to increase his expertise, he made a change and went to work for a full service independent repair shop that specialized in Domestic and Japanese automobiles. It was at this place that Tony rounded out his skills.

The introduction of computerized engine controls in the early 1980's brought a new challenge to the automotive repair industry. tony met the challenge head on. By reading all technical data available to him and attending various trainings, he was able to step into the world of computerized engine control diagnostics and repair.

Once again, seeking to maximize his skills, Tony changed employers. His new position was as a Diagnostic and Drivability Technician dealing with simple tune ups to the most complicated diagnosis of computer controlled vehicles.

With the purchase of K.O. Automotive in 1992 Tony took the next step in his professional career. Bringing years of experience and a strong commitment to customer satisfaction, Tony has been able to build a dedicated customer base by treating his customers like he would want to be treated if he were in their position.

Gabriel - Service Manager

Gabriel rejoined the KO family in June of 2010 as our Service Manager. He previously worked at K.O. as a lube technician from 2002-03. Gabriel is certified in Business Development and Service Writing.

Prior to K.O., Gabriel worked in the tire industry as both a technician and sales manager. While there he received training in brake and suspension work.

Gabriel graduated from Aliso Niguel High School. He attended Saddleback College and later became a L.V.N.