How It All Started
Look, I'll be straight with you - this whole thing started in my dad's garage back in 2003. I was sixteen, and we'd just bought this beaten-up '89 BMW 325i for cheap. Thing barely ran, but man, something about that inline-six just spoke to me.
Spent two years rebuilding that car from the ground up. Learned everything the hard way - busted knuckles, wrong parts ordered three times, transmission fluid everywhere. But when we finally got her running smooth? That feeling was something else.
After trade school and working at a couple dealerships, I realized I didn't want to be just another wrench turning bolts on cookie-cutter jobs. European cars - especially the classics - they've got soul. They need someone who actually gives a damn, y'know?
So in 2011, I opened Shadow Rent Haven in this little 2-bay shop. Name came from my grandpa who used to say every good car deserves a "haven" where it's treated right. We've grown to 6 bays now, but the philosophy hasn't changed one bit.
The Journey
2003
First hands-on restoration project. That BMW taught me more than any textbook ever could.
2007
Completed automotive tech certification. Started specializing in European diagnostics at a local dealership.
2011
Opened Shadow Rent Haven with 2 bays and a dream. First customer was a '72 Porsche 911 that needed a complete engine rebuild.
2015
Expanded to 4 bays. Added performance tuning capabilities and got our first dyno setup.
2019
Brought on three master techs who share the same passion. Started taking on more complex restoration projects.
2023
Moved to our current 6-bay facility. Invested in cutting-edge diagnostic equipment while keeping that personal touch.
2025
Now working on some of the most incredible European machines in Vancouver. Every day's different, every car's got a story.
What Drives Us
We're not about churning out quick fixes or pushing unnecessary services. Every car that rolls in here gets treated like it's our own. Whether you're bringing in a daily driver Audi or a pristine classic Mercedes, we take the time to do it right. No shortcuts, no rush jobs - just solid work from people who actually care about what they're doing.
Credentials & Recognition
We've earned our stripes over the years. Here's some of the formal stuff that backs up what we do.
ASE Master Technician
All our lead techs hold ASE Master certifications in multiple areas
BMW Certified
Factory-trained on BMW systems and diagnostic procedures
Mercedes-Benz Specialist
Authorized training in Mercedes diagnostics and repair
Porsche Technician
Specialized training for classic and modern Porsche models
Best of Vancouver 2023
Voted top European auto specialist by Vancouver Magazine
5-Star Rating
Maintained across Google, Yelp, and Facebook reviews
Audi Service Excellence
Certified for complete Audi vehicle service and diagnostics
Volkswagen Specialist
Expert-level training on VW and VAG group vehicles
Advanced Diagnostics
Certified on LAUNCH, BOSCH, and factory scan tools
Performance Tuning
Certified ECU tuning and performance modification specialist
BBB Accredited
A+ rating with Better Business Bureau since 2013
BC Safety Certified
Licensed to perform provincial safety inspections
By The Numbers
14+
Years Experience
2000+
Cars Restored
98%
Customer Satisfaction
