About Ironclad Auto and Tire
Family-owned. ASE-certified. The mechanic your dad would trust.
Our Story
Ray and Donna Mitchell founded Ironclad Auto and Tire in 2008. Ray is an ASE Master Technician with more than 30 years of experience under the hood. He started out fixing neighbors’ cars in his garage on weekends — word spread, the driveway got crowded, and eventually it made sense to open a real shop.
Donna handles the business side — scheduling, billing, customer communication — and makes sure every person who walks through the door understands exactly what’s going on with their vehicle. Together, they’ve built Ironclad into one of Charlotte’s most trusted independent repair shops.
Ironclad is a NAPA AutoCare Center, which means access to nationwide warranties, quality NAPA parts, and a network of shops that stand behind each other’s work. If you break down on vacation 1,000 miles from Charlotte, the warranty still covers you.
“We explain every repair in plain English and never sell you something you don’t need.” That’s not a marketing line — it’s how Ray and Donna have run this shop since day one. Honest diagnostics, fair pricing, and standing behind their work. That’s the Ironclad promise.
Meet the Team
Ray Mitchell
Owner & ASE Master Technician
30 years in the industry. ASE Master certified. Started Ironclad in his garage. Still turns wrenches every day and personally oversees every major repair.
Donna Mitchell
Co-Owner & Business Manager
Handles scheduling, billing, and customer communication. Makes sure every customer understands their repair and feels comfortable with the process.
Carlos Ruiz
Lead Technician
ASE-certified with 15 years experience. Specializes in brake systems and suspension. Known for catching problems other shops miss during inspections.
Mike Patterson
Technician
ASE-certified, 10 years experience. Toyota and Honda specialist. Trained at the dealership level before joining Ironclad for a better work environment.
Derek James
Technician
ASE-certified, 8 years experience. Domestic vehicle specialist. Ford, Chevy, and Dodge trucks are his bread and butter.
Sarah Chen
Service Advisor
5 years in automotive service. The friendly voice on the phone and the person who translates mechanic-speak into plain English.
Certifications & Recognition
- ASE Blue Seal of Excellence
- NAPA AutoCare Center
- BBB A+ Rating (Since 2010)
- NC Licensed Inspection Station
Community
Ironclad proudly sponsors the Matthews Mustangs youth baseball team. We believe in supporting the neighborhoods that support us.
Active-duty military and first responders receive 10% off all services, every visit. No coupon needed — just a valid ID.
We partner with Charlotte Family Housing to donate vehicle inspections and basic maintenance to single parents working toward stable housing. A reliable car changes everything.
Schedule Your Service
Or call us at (704) 555-0587