BIDDEFORD — For decades, 234 Elm St. has been an automotive repair shop, and the tradition of the downtown auto shop continues with Hero Motors.

Hero Motors, owned by Robert Thibodeau and John Wingfield, opened in July.

Wingfield is also the general manager and lead technician. Wingfield said between he and full-time technician Paul Lacey, they have more than 30 years experience in the automotive repair industry. Both are military veterans, and Wingfield said the shop offers a 25 percent discount to veterans.

Wingfield said he thinks of the auto repair shop as a community service.

“I believe that customers from the local area need to have a mechanic that they feel they can trust, and I take that very seriously,” he said.

Wingfield said it’s difficult for many people to afford the repairs and maintenance needed to keep a car on the road that meets safety regulations. Wingfield said he offers full-service repairs at an affordable price.

“We work on all makes and models, foreign and domestic,” said Wingfield.

This includes the shiny black 1964 Cadillac Eldorado Biarritz convertible that was sitting in front of the shop Thursday. Wingfield said the car, which he restored, was once owned by Charles Bronson.

The shop is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays, but Wingfield said it’s not uncommon for staff to be there late.

“If I promise someone I’m going to have it for that day, I’m usually here until it’s done,” he said.

— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 325 or [email protected].