Engine Machine Shop · Hayden, ID · Est. 2004

Carter's Automotive

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Engine Rebuilding Specialist The Lost Art, Done Right
5.0★25 reviews
21+Years in Hayden
EngineSpecialist
FreeEstimates
What We Do

Precision engine machine work

The specialized craftsmanship most shops can't offer — done right, by the man who's been doing it for 21 years.

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Engine Rebuilding

Complete engine rebuild from the ground up. Tom does the work most shops can't — or won't.

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Cylinder Head Reconditioning

Valve seat machining, head resurfacing, and full reconditioning for maximum performance and longevity.

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Engine Block Work

Cylinder boring, honing, and block machining to factory tolerances.

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Crankshaft Grinding

Precision crankshaft grinding and balancing for long engine life.

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Engine Balancing

Full rotating assembly balancing for smooth, reliable power.

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Performance Engine Building

Custom performance builds for those who want more than stock.

A Dying Art, Still Alive in Hayden

The engine work most shops can't do.

Carter's Automotive is Tom Carter — a machinist who still does the work that most shops outsource or turn away. Engine rebuilding, cylinder head work, block machining. The kind of precision craftsmanship that customers drive from across North Idaho to find.

Tom has been at it since 2004 and every review says the same thing: he knows what he's doing, he's fair, and he takes pride in his work. When the dealer says "replace the engine," Tom says "let's fix it."

  • ⚙️
    Engine machine shop specialist
    Cylinder heads, blocks, cranks, balancing
  • Perfect 5.0★ rating
    25 verified Google reviews
  • 🔧
    All makes & models
    Domestic and import engines
  • 👤
    Owner-operated
    Tom does the work himself
Word On The Street

What North Idaho drivers say

Real reviews from real customers on Google.

★★★★★

"All I have to say is I wish Tom was younger again so he could provide his quality work for another 20 years, he knows what he is doing and does an excellent work. I learned about Carter's through friends that swore by him and how he knew the lost art of engine machine work. Tom showed me around the shop and the processes he provides to the public. I would definitely recommend Carter's automotive and even if there was a wait it will be worth it for the experience he has. I give 5 stars to Tom of Carter's Automotive because I am a builder and know what to expect from engine machining. Well done Tom and thank you."

CC
Corey CanzoneriGoogle Review
★★★★★

"Tom is very professional and awesome to deal with. Very fair and knowledgeable. I have used his services for many of my customers needs as well as my own."

JW
James WeaverGoogle Review
★★★★★

"Locally owned and operated. Best machine shop in town!! Excellent work from a guy that knows what he's doing!! Thank you Tom!!"

SR
Sarah RasmussenGoogle Review
★★★★★

"He did a great job and was awesome to work with. I will continue to work with him for my engine machining needs. He's very knowledgeable and takes pride in his work."

EH
Ed HunterGoogle Review
★★★★★5.0★ from 25 Google reviews — a perfect record.
Get In Touch

Request an estimate

Send a request and we'll confirm by phone. Or just call — Tom's happy to talk it through.

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Call us(208) 772-0301
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Hours
Mon – Thu9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday – SundayClosed

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