Generations of Journeys: Pep Boys’ Proven Prep for Every Mile

Back in 1921, four ambitious friends—Emanuel “Manny” Rosenfeld, Maurice “Moe” Strauss, Moe Radavitz, and W. Graham “Jack” Jackson—each threw $200 into the pot and cranked open the doors of what would become an American automotive legend: the original Pep Boys store.

Since opening that first location in Philadelphia over 100 years ago, Pep Boys has served communities across the United States. Today at our 800+ locations, our mission remains the same as it was back then: to make quality car care simple, convenient, and accessible to everyone.  Make an appointment at your local shop today.

Fueled by Friendship: How Three Guys Changed Car Care Forever

When Pep Boys opened its doors, the golden age of cars was getting underway… and with it, the rise of the great American adventure. The three friends saw an opportunity to help a wave of new vehicle owners care for their cars and trucks. They likely couldn’t have imagined what was to come. 

What started as a single store quickly expanded when the shops added auto service bays to help a fast-growing number of car owners care for their vehicles. That was the missing piece of the puzzle, and it helped to fuel America’s love affair with the open road. 

A century later, Pep Boys is still rolling strong, proving that a little ingenuity, a lot of elbow grease, and a drive to always do right by your customer can take you a long way. 

The Trio That Never Took a Backseat

Many people know Pep Boys because of the iconic, hand-drawn faces that have represented the founders—and cemented their friendship forever—since 1925. 

As decades rolled by, these caricatures have changed a bit…but don’t we all? Manny ditched the cigar (modern times call for modern icons), but the heart of the trio stayed the same. Manny’s bespectacled knowledge, Moe’s welcoming smile, and Jack’s friendly wink that says “we know cars” still invite vehicle owners in for expert care.

Under their watchful eyes, the Pep Boys team remains committed to keeping you moving. We’d like to think that they’d be proud to see how we continue to do right by our customers, advising them on how to get their vehicle ready for life’s adventures, where that be a quick drive to the neighborhood grocery store for essentials or an epic, coast-to-coast family roadtrip. 

6 Essential Car Tips Before Hitting the Road

Speaking of trips, don’t forget to ensure your vehicle is road-ready before you set out on YOUR next adventure. Use this expert advice from Pep Boys ASE-certified technicians to keep you moving smoothly and safely—in any season of the year.

1. Prioritize Your Oil Change

Fresh oil keeps your engine running efficiently and prevents unnecessary wear—especially over long distances. If you’re due (or even close to it), schedule an oil change before your trip. It’s a quick service that delivers long-term peace of mind.

2. Check Your Tires (and Get the Right Ones)

Tires aren’t just about traction—they’re about safety and performance. At Pep Boys, you can choose from trusted tire brands like Michelin, Goodyear, and Kumho. Plus, you get expert guidance on what fits your vehicle and your budget.

Want your tires to go the distance? Don’t skip tire maintenance like rotations, balancing, and alignments—we can help with all of it.

3. Test Your Brakes Before You Cruise

Squeaks, squeals, or grinding noises are your brakes’ way of waving a red flag. Even if they sound fine, a quick inspection is smart before clocking serious miles. Our Brake Service ensures you stop just as confidently as you go.

4. Make Sure Heating & Cooling Systems Are Ready

Whether you’re battling summer heat or chilly mornings, your car HVAC system needs to perform. Weak airflow? Strange smells? Warm air when it should be cool? Bring it in for a checkup—comfort on the road is key.

5. Don’t Leave Your Battery to Chance

A dead battery is a road trip killer. If yours is over 3 years old, consider a replacement. If it’s newer, a free battery test at Pep Boys can tell you if it’s strong enough for the long haul. If not, our Battery Replacement service has you covered.

6. Pack (and Check) an Emergency Kit

Preparedness is more than peace of mind—it’s a must-have. Load up on essentials like jumper cables, a flashlight, tire repair tools, non-perishable snacks, and first-aid supplies. You may never need it, but if you do, you’ll be glad you have it.

Bonus Tip: Want it all checked off in one stop? Pep Boys can help with every item on this list—from tires and batteries to brakes and A/C service. Book your appointment today and hit the road with confidence.

The most unforgettable adventures don’t begin at the destination—they start in the driveway, with a vehicle that’s road-ready and raring to go. Our expert technicians are here to make sure your car is just as prepared as you are. From oil changes and tire checks to brake service and battery replacement, we’ve got everything you need to drive with confidence. So fuel up, buckle in, and let Pep Boys handle the rest. 

When it’s time to decide where the road should lead, don’t forget to explore our exclusive Pep Boys-approved Roadtrips—handpicked routes designed to turn your next drive into something truly epic. Adventure is calling—and we’ll help you answer it.