ABOUT OUR RALEIGH, NC AUTO REPAIR & TRANSMISSION SHOP
Proudly Serving Customers Since 2011
At Real World Automotive, our team is dedicated to providing you the best auto repair and maintenance services in Raleigh, NC. Since 2011, our shop has provided quality automotive repair and superior customer service. We appreciate your business and look forward to exceeding your expectations. If you have any questions, feel free to give us a call, or stop by the shop anytime!
Meet the Team
Tim – Owner
I’ve been in the automotive industry for over 30 years, and it all started right here in this very building. Back when it was my uncle’s shop—Griffin’s Transmissions—I began working as a porter at just 15 years old. Over the next 15 years, I worked my way up to become a master transmission rebuilder. After that, I spent about a decade managing another auto shop before deciding it was time to open my own.
One of my favorite memories with Real World Automotive is walking back into this building—not as an employee, but as the owner. Coming full circle like that is something I’ll never forget.
What I love most about working on cars is surprising customers—in a good way. When someone comes in thinking they’re facing a major, expensive repair, and I get to tell them it’s a simple, easy fix—that always makes my day.
Outside the shop, you’ll usually find me on the golf course Saturday and Sunday mornings, or cheering on my 11-year-old, who’s a powerhouse on the soccer field. I have a wonderful wife, a daughter and son we’re raising together, and two amazing daughters—including Dixie, who helps me run the shop.
Dixie – Office Manager
The automotive world has always been a part of my life—my dad, the owner of Real World Automotive, has been in the industry for as long as I can remember. So when he opened his own shop and asked me to help him run it, I couldn’t turn down the opportunity.
My favorite part about working here is being able to step in and keep things running smoothly when Tim isn’t around, and helping the guys with whatever they need, whenever they need it. It’s a team effort, and I love being part of it.
Outside of work, I enjoy renovating the house we bought in May of 2024 and planning our wedding for November of 2025. I’m currently engaged and proud dog mom to three pups—Autumn, Remi, and Cooper.
Trip – Automotive Technician
You could say working on cars runs in the family—I’m a fourth-generation mechanic. My great-grandfather, grandfather, and dad were all mechanics, so it’s definitely in our blood. I’m also the third Donald in the family—my granddaddy was the first, my dad the second, and that’s how I got the nickname "Trip."
One of my most memorable moments as a tech was pulling my first transmission and putting it back in—a 1999 Ford F-250. That experience really kickstarted my confidence and passion for the trade.
What I love most about this work is solving problems and knowing that I’ve helped someone get safely back on the road. There’s real pride in seeing a car you’ve worked on drive away running smoothly.
Outside of work, I enjoy playing video games and going shooting. It’s also a family affair here at Real World Automotive—my boss, Tim Childers, is my cousin, and so is Dixie, who runs the front desk.
Clint – Automotive Technician
Since graduating college in 2014, I’ve been passionate about working as a mechanic. I chose to join Real World Automotive because it feels more like a family than a typical repair shop. The supportive, team-oriented atmosphere makes every day enjoyable.
What I love most about my job is the variety—no two days or repairs are ever the same. I enjoy the challenge that comes with big jobs, and I appreciate the fun we have while getting things done. We laugh, we joke, and we always support one another.
Outside of work, I’m a big outdoors enthusiast. I love golfing on nice days, visiting theme parks, and going camping with my family. We’re the kind of family that enjoys spending quality time together and making the most of every adventure.
Joseph – Automotive Technician
I was inspired to join Real World Automotive because it offered a great opportunity to grow my experience and expand my knowledge in the automotive field. From day one, it's been more than just a job, it’s a place where I'm constantly learning and being challenged in the best ways.
One of my favorite parts of working here is the environment. We have a team that knows how to have fun while staying focused and getting the job done. Everyone is willing to help one another, and that kind of support makes all the difference.
What I enjoy most about working on cars is the problem-solving. There's a real satisfaction in figuring out what's wrong, fixing it, and knowing that the vehicle is leaving our shop safe and road-ready. It never gets old.
Outside of work, my wife and I are deeply involved in our church community. We love spending time with friends, attending church events, and growing in our faith. We also enjoy making memories with our families, whether it's family get-togethers, lake days, or beach trips, we value that time together.