For fifteen years, Auto Obsession has been a cornerstone of the Pomona Swap Meet, a haven for classic car enthusiasts and restorers. Nestled in Road 27, Spaces 34, 36, and 38, Auto Obsession stands out as a premier vendor specializing in Auto Obsession Classic Car Parts. If you’re breathing new life into a vintage American car or truck, a visit to their booth is a must. They boast an extensive inventory of reproduction parts for American classics spanning the golden eras of the 1950s through the 1980s. We recently had the opportunity to connect with Trevor Baker, the President and CEO of Auto Obsession, Inc., to delve into the heart of this company and understand what fuels their passion for classic automobiles and their parts.
“When I was 15 and a half, I sold my coin collection and bought my first car: a 1972 Toyota Corolla.”
The Road to Auto Obsession: An Industry Born from Passion
Trevor’s journey into the classic car parts industry wasn’t a straight line, but rather a winding road fueled by genuine enthusiasm. “I initially started an auto accessories business while still in college,” Trevor recalls. This first venture, lasting about a decade, proved to be an invaluable learning experience. “It really helped me figure out how to run a business… what to do, and what NOT to do!” This entrepreneurial foundation, combined with his lifelong love for classic cars, paved the way for Auto Obsession.
Driven by Passion: The Best Part of the Job
For Trevor, the allure of the classic car parts business isn’t just about transactions; it’s deeply rooted in shared passion. “What’s the best part of my job?” he muses, “Dealing with others who share my love and my obsession for classic cars.” This sentiment underscores the community aspect of classic car restoration, where enthusiasts connect over their shared appreciation for automotive history and the intricate world of auto obsession classic car parts.
From Toyotas to Triumphs: A Lifelong Affair with Classic Cars
Trevor’s fascination with classic cars ignited at a young age. “Have I always been interested in classic cars?” he responds with a hint of nostalgia. “When I was 15 and a half, I sold my coin collection and bought my first car: a 1972 Toyota Corolla.” This wasn’t just a teenage rite of passage; it was the beginning of a hands-on education. “I rebuilt the engine three times and did all kinds of modifications. I learned a lot from that car.” This initial foray into automotive mechanics sparked a series of classic car projects. From buying, fixing, and selling several Toyotas, he moved on to American classics. A pivotal moment was acquiring a “pretty rough” 1968 Corvette 427 4-speed Roadster from a high school friend. This Corvette became his first full restoration project, a testament to his dedication to bringing classic beauties back to their former glory, piece by piece, part by part.
His classic car journey continued with a stunning gold 1967 Firebird Convertible, a 1969 El Camino SS 396, and a collection of other El Caminos, Chevelles, and even MGBs. This diverse experience across various makes and models has solidified his deep understanding of auto obsession classic car parts across a broad spectrum of classic American vehicles.
The Bonneville Project: A Classic Wagon in Progress
Even as a purveyor of auto obsession classic car parts, Trevor remains an active enthusiast, currently owning a 1969 Pontiac Bonneville Station Wagon. This isn’t just any wagon; it’s a personal restoration project with a story. “One of my customers owned it and he was going to pull out the 428 motor to put it in another car,” Trevor explains. Driven by his appreciation for wagons, he intervened. “I’ve always loved wagons so I convinced him not to destroy the car by pulling the engine. I traded him some parts that he needed for another project for the Bonneville.” Rescued from the desert near Willow Springs, with a registration sticker dating back to 1982, the Bonneville became an eight-year labor of love. Despite setbacks with previous bodywork, Trevor entrusted the project to Marcos at Moises Auto Body in Canoga Park, who delivered exceptional results. With the interior recently completed, the Bonneville is nearing completion, a rolling testament to patience, perseverance, and the meticulous process of classic car restoration using the right auto obsession classic car parts.
Before & After: Trevor’s 1969 Pontiac Bonneville Station Wagon
Dream Garage Goals: A Lottery-Fueled Classic Car Shopping Spree
If fortune smiled upon Trevor with a lottery win, his classic car wish list is extensive and eclectic, reflecting a true auto obsession. “First, I’d buy a warehouse to house them all…” he laughs, before launching into his dream garage inventory. The list includes iconic American classics like a 1960 Cadillac Coupe de Ville or Eldorado, a 1965 Riviera GS, 1959 Impala and El Camino, and a 1962 Thunderbird Sports Roadster. His taste extends beyond American shores, encompassing European legends such as an Aston Martin DB5, a Series 2 Jaguar XKE, a Lamborghini Miura, and a Maserati Bora. Interestingly, his list circles back to his roots: “Oh, and a ’71 or ’72 Toyota Celica or Corolla. I still love them, I can’t help it!” This diverse collection underscores not just a love for cars, but a deep appreciation for automotive history and design across different eras and styles. Choosing just one, he admits, is an impossible task for someone with such a profound auto obsession.
Pomona Swap Meet Tales: Record Sales and Rainy Days
With fifteen years at the Pomona Swap Meet, Trevor has accumulated a wealth of memories. One particularly memorable event highlights the unpredictable nature of outdoor sales. “I think it was about twelve years ago,” he recounts. “My only employee at the time and I were both suffering from nasty colds and felt terrible, but we had a record-setting sales day. It was amazing.” This unexpected success, despite challenging circumstances, speaks to the enduring appeal of classic cars and the Pomona Swap Meet as a vital marketplace for auto obsession classic car parts. On the other end of the spectrum, he acknowledges the challenges of selling in inclement weather: “Of course, trying to sell when it’s raining is always interesting too!”
Ford vs. Chevy: A GM Lean with Universal Appreciation
In the age-old debate of Ford versus Chevy, Trevor reveals his preference, rooted in personal experience. “Since my 1968 Corvette, I’ve always been more of a GM guy. Chevys and Pontiacs.” However, his passion for automobiles is inclusive. “But, I appreciate Fords, Mopars, and many other cars.” This balanced perspective is essential in the auto obsession classic car parts business, where knowledge and inventory must cater to a wide range of makes and models.
Connecting with Auto Obsession: Your Source for Classic Car Parts
For those seeking auto obsession classic car parts, connecting with Auto Obsession is easy. “How can customers contact you?” we asked. Trevor points to multiple channels: “You can visit our website at AutoObsession.com or like us on Facebook. Our phone number is 805-306-0795, and we’re located at: 679 E. Easy Street, Unit A, Simi Valley, CA 93065.” Whether online or in person at the Pomona Swap Meet, Auto Obsession is readily accessible to serve the classic car community.
From Garage Hobby to Pomona Staple: The Auto Obsession Story
Auto Obsession’s fifteen-year journey as a Pomona Swap Meet vendor is built on a foundation of passion and organic growth. “How long has Auto Obsession been in business? Tell a little bit about the company’s history,” we inquired. “Auto Obsession officially started about fifteen years ago,” Trevor explains. However, the seeds were sown long before. “Before that, I was working out of my garage. I was restoring cars as a hobby.” A pivotal project, the restoration of his 1967 Firebird Convertible, inadvertently launched his parts business. Needing parts for the Firebird, he acquired a coupe as a parts car. “After I got all of the parts that I needed from the coupe, I sold off the rest of the parts and the shell and more than recouped my investment!” This resourceful approach sparked an idea. “I started buying wrecked or rusted cars and parting them out.” Eventually, the hobby outgrew the garage. “Eventually I moved into a building and transitioned to new restoration parts.” This evolution coincided with a significant shift in the market. “The proliferation of available restoration parts has really been amazing in the past fifteen years. We phased out the used parts segment of the business a few years ago.” Today, Auto Obsession focuses exclusively on new reproduction auto obsession classic car parts, ensuring quality and availability for restorers.
A Treasure Trove of Restoration Parts: What Auto Obsession Offers
Auto Obsession’s inventory caters specifically to classic American cars and trucks from the 1950s to the 1980s. “So what exactly do you sell?” we asked. Trevor provides a comprehensive overview: “Auto Obsession sells restoration parts for classic American cars and trucks from the ’50s through the ’80s. Body panels, moldings, weather stripping, emblems, interior parts, glass, suspension parts, disc brake conversions. Generally, if someone makes it, we have it or can get it!” Their extensive catalog covers virtually every aspect of classic car restoration, making them a one-stop shop for auto obsession classic car parts.
Expertise and Knowledge: The Auto Obsession Difference
In a competitive market, Auto Obsession distinguishes itself through unparalleled expertise and customer service. “What sets you apart from the competition? What makes you so special?” we asked. Trevor emphasizes their deep product knowledge. “We really know the cars and the parts that we sell for them! You don’t need to know the part number to place an order with us!” This personalized approach is a significant advantage. “We have the experience, knowledge and expertise to advise you about what parts are available and, just as important, not available for your car.” This commitment to informed guidance sets Auto Obsession apart as more than just a parts vendor; they are trusted advisors in the world of auto obsession classic car parts.
“If there’s anything in particular that you need, you can call us about a week before the Swap Meet and we’ll bring it out for you.”
Sourcing Quality: Direct from Manufacturers
To ensure quality and competitive pricing for their auto obsession classic car parts, Auto Obsession prioritizes direct sourcing. “Where do you get all of the parts that you sell?” we inquired. “We have a wide variety of suppliers,” Trevor explains. “We try to buy direct from the manufacturers so we can offer the best deal to our customers.” This direct-sourcing strategy allows them to maintain quality control and offer competitive prices to their clientele.
Popular Parts and Models: Meeting Market Demands
While Auto Obsession boasts a vast inventory, some parts are consistently in high demand. “What’s your most popular item? What make/model do you sell the most parts for?” we asked. “No one item really stands out. We sell a lot of different parts.” Trevor notes the breadth of their sales. However, if pressed to name a top seller, he points to a seemingly mundane but essential item: “If I had to say one item, I think it would likely be side view mirrors. We sell a LOT of those at the Swap Meet!” In terms of vehicle applications, he lists a range of popular classic models: “Our most popular applications are Chevelles, El Caminos, Camaros, Impalas, Novas, Mustangs, Monte Carlos, and pickups.” These models represent the heart of American classic car culture and are frequent restoration projects, driving demand for auto obsession classic car parts.
New and Noteworthy: Expanding Product Lines
Auto Obsession continuously expands its product offerings to meet the evolving needs of the classic car restoration community. “Any new or different product offerings that we should know about?” we asked. Trevor highlights several recent additions: “We have 1964-1965 Chevelle Hardtop headliner moldings and trim, mid-60s Impala steel fan shrouds, 1971-1974 Chevelle/El Camino/Nova/Camaro SS steering wheels, 1968-1972 Chevelle/GTO/Skylark/Cutlass convertible top frames, and 1965-1970 GM full-size (Impala, Bonneville, LeSabre, 88, etc.) four-door sill plates.” These new products demonstrate Auto Obsession’s commitment to providing restorers with the parts they need for even the most specific and challenging projects.
Pomona Swap Meet Specials: Cash Deals and Convenience
Attending the Pomona Swap Meet offers customers special incentives when purchasing auto obsession classic car parts. “Do you offer any special swap meet deals or discounts in Pomona?” we inquired. “Yes! Our swap meet deal is, if you pay cash, we pay your sales tax!” Trevor reveals. For those preferring other payment methods, “Of course, we’ll accept your credit or debit card at our booth too!”
Going the Extra Mile: Pre-Orders and Personalized Service
Auto Obsession understands the logistical challenges of transporting large or numerous parts from swap meets. “Anything else customers should know about Auto Obsessions?” we asked. Trevor emphasizes their commitment to customer convenience: “We can’t stock nor bring everything to the Pomona Swap Meet. But, if there’s anything in particular that you need, you can call us about a week before the Swap Meet and we’ll bring it out for you. Even if it’s something big like a hood or a quarter panel!” This pre-order service is a significant benefit for serious restorers. “Many of our regular customers will fax or e-mail a parts list and we’ll have their order set aside for them at our booth waiting for them when they arrive.” This personalized service and willingness to go the extra mile solidify Auto Obsession as a trusted partner for anyone with a passion for classic car restoration and a need for reliable auto obsession classic car parts.
For more information, visit AutoObsession.com… then get your wish list together and come down to Road 27, Spaces 34, 36, and 38 at the Pomona Swap Meet!
