Our Approach
Collar City Auto Haus is the logical choice for discerning automobile enthusiasts who insist on honest, quality service. Our automotive team knows how you feel about your vehicle, because we share that passion. Each vehicle we service is treated like our own. No compromise and no exceptions. We will not take on a project we don't believe in. Since every vehicle that leaves our shop carries our name and our legacy, we believe that the only way to succeed in this business is to provide the highest quality craftsmanship and service. Although we do have pretty cool business cards, the ultimate business card is the vehicle owner who leaves our shop more than satisfied.
Meet the Team
Philip Krzemieniecki
Founder & President
Philip Krzemieniecki has over 15 years in the automotive industry. He recalls being fascinated with all things automotive from a young age.
That early interest fueled his passion for custom work, and he earned his certification as a master welder from prestigious Wyotech, in Blairsville, Pennsylvania. He is also certified in high performance power trains and chassis fabrication. As well, Phil holds two Associate degrees in small business management, one in auto repair, the other in auto body.
Phil has worked for some of the best custom/performance shops on The East Coast.
Peter Salisbury
Vice President
Peter Salisbury recognized his enthusiasm and aptitude for all things automotive at an early age; now, with over 20 years in the industry, that passion has never waned.
Peter earned his certification as a master automotive technician, working for several domestic and foreign dealerships including Toyota/Lexus, General Motors, Acura/Honda, and Mercedes-Benz/Sprinter. He has also served in the capacity of shop foreman and service manager.
Peter has extensive experience in drive-train rebuilding and upgrading, including engines, transmissions, transfer cases, and differentials on large trucks and industrial equipment. Lest you think he prefers larger engines, know that Peter has owned and operated a small engine repair shop. When it comes to engines, size does not matter!
Specializing in diagnostics – as well as electrical repair and custom electronics – Peter is affectionately called “Doc” around the shop.
Ricardo Benfele
Sr. Technician
Ricardo Benfele commitment to the automotive industry has no limits. For over 30 years, Ricardo owned and operated a premier repair shop. Focusing on general maintenance repairs as well as performance upgrades and off-road fabrication & modifications. When he decided to make a life-altering change and step away from his business to focus on his family, that's when Collar City Auto Haus stepped in and gained its' best asset. Not only was Ricardo a long-time Rally car, Baja truck & Drag car driver but he also modified and built many of his own vehicles and countless others for customers.
His extensive experience & training in engine, drive axle and differential overhauling and suspension system modifications have built him an amazing reputation. But his most well-known skill is being known as the "carburetor whisperer" in the shop. You will not find any test lights or scan tools in his tool box, just old school knowledge, and experience.
THE PAST:
As fate would have it, these two highly talented and experienced technicians ended up working side by side at the same restoration and repair facility. They soon became good friends. It didn’t take long for them to realize that their knowledge, skills, and experience complemented each other perfectly, Peter with his diagnostic ability and repair acumen even in the most challenging situations, and Phil with his uncanny ability to surpass a customer’s customization expectations. In that moment, a plan took hold, that they would someday, somehow, open their own shop.
THE FUTURE:
After several years of saving and planning, through sheer determination and a lot of sweat equity, Peter and Phil saw their dream become a reality, proudly opening their shop at 647 2nd Avenue in Troy, NY. on January 1 of 2019. They want nothing better than to earn your trust by providing you with the very best complete service. They welcome the opportunity to work with you to turn what you have only imagined into a customization that surpasses your wildest dreams. Their expertise in the automotive field is unsurpassed, and their passion for their work unparalleled.
Next Steps...
Stop by or give us a call to discuss your project. We will be honest about the possibilities available to make your vision a reality. We will always do right by our customers; that is our commitment to you.