Some of our customers have always wanted to know the history behind Turner's Garage & Transmission. Here’s how it all came about! And if you’re visiting us for the first time, perhaps you’d like to get to know our auto repair and service team. We’re ready to help you with all your car care needs.
Our History—From the Owner, Wendell Turner
The seed for Turner's Garage & Transmission was planted back in 1949 by my father, Johnny Turner. He opened a gas station, parts store, and junkyard just at the south end of Harvin Street in Sumter. I grew up right beside the shop, and have been on the property for over 50 years. My passion for cars started when I was only four years old. I built my first car engine at 14 years old after going to work for my father’s best friend, a used car dealer, in 1975. I continued working there on Japanese automobiles, along with the American ones, until I was 17 years old. In the meantime, my father passed away in 1970, and the shop was run by other individuals until 1979 when it became vacant. I began repairing vehicles in the building that was originally the parts store, and Turner's Garage & Transmission took root and grew to serve drivers from all over the Sumter area.