Bluffton has a new second-generation business.

Doty’s Auto Repair and Alignment, open in 1983 by Tom Doty, will become Doty’s Auto Repair and Wheel Alignment, LLC, owned and operated by Tom’s son, Mike on May 1.

Click here to read our column about Tom Doty.

“The business will continue offering all the repair and wheel alignment services and great customer service we’ve always offered,” said Mike. “The only thing that’s changing is that Dad is stepping away from the business.”

Doty’s will continue to operate at 180 E. Jefferson St., Bluffton, with Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. hours. The phone number will remain 419-358-8915.

Mike said the changeover has been in works for several months. He has become more involved in the day-to-day operations over the past five years.

Tom continues to spend more time in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan where he owns a second residence. “You’ll find me golfing and participating in a snowmobile club in the U.P,” he said.

Mike said that his wife, Amber, who also works at Webb Insurance Agency, Bluffton, will be involved “behind the scenes in the books,” in the business.

The couple, who live in Pandora, has two children, Hannah, 14, and Caleb, 10.

Mike, a 1999 Bluffton High School grad, holds an associate’s degree in automotive and business from University of Northwestern Ohio, Lima. Several years ago, he bought out a wheel alignment shop in Lima and relocated it to Jefferson Street, which added to the vehicle repair business services.

The alignment addition was the fourth addition to Doty’s as three shop expansions took place since its 1983 start-up.

Doty's specializes in brake repair, engine diagnostics, steering and chasis work, general auto repair, tire sales in addition to vehicle alignment.

Mike said that he can also handle low tire light sensors, air conditioning issues.

He said that no special event is planned during the ownership transition.