These days, it seems like businesses want to be jacks-of-all-trades. From super center box stores, to hardware stores to auto shops.

But, one business in Rio Rancho refuses to follow the trend. Universal Transmission would rather do one thing and do it well -— fix transmissions.

“The only thing we specialize in is transmissions and in today’s world that’s plenty,” owner Hector Gonzalez said. Gonzalez and his family have operated at 3148 Northern Boulevard for the past 13 years.

He has been working on transmissions since 1964, since graduating from Lincoln Tech Automotive School in Newark, N.J.

“It’s the only thing I know how to do,” Gonzalez said.

Well, there is one other thing that Universal does beside fix transmissions and that is providing exceptional customer service.

Gonzalez and his group are so good at fixing transmissions and making the customer happy that only one complaint has been lodged against Universal Transmission with the Better Business Bureau in 13 years, and that was rectified.

Gonzalez values his customers and puts pride into everything he does.

His daughter Linda Strauss, however, normally handles the service end. Gonzalez speaks fondly of his daughter’s dedication to the business.

When it comes to technology and working on the newer transmissions, Gonzalez relies on his son J.R. Gonzalez.

He has worked on cars for almost 20 years and to keep up with the changes he attends classes and seminars every six months.

One of his popular tools is a transmission scanner, which costs roughly $10,000. The scanner extracts the transmission’s codes and helps J.R. Gonzalez quickly diagnose the problem.

“Without it, you are just guessing,” he said.

While he has yet to work on a hybrid, J.R. Gonzalez said it’s only a matter of time before they start rolling into the shop. And when they do, he will be ready.

J.R. Gonzalez explained that the hybrid transmissions are part mechanical and part electrical. He will have to wear special gloves and be extra careful, because there are 300-volt wires.

Hector Gonzalez believes in keeping up with the times and he’s seen a lot of change in the transmission business. While he can work on a new Lexus or an Audi, his love comes with classic cars.

Currently, he is working on a 1964 Ford Falcon, a 1962 Chevy Nova and a 1973 Chevy Nova.

He is so good at working on classic cars that the Westside Cruisers have him work on their transmissions.

“Today, you’re not going to find a transmission rebuilder that is efficient with classic cars,” Hector Gonzalez said. “I’m the legend when it comes to old cars.”

Universal Transmission’s work is so good that he has worked on the City of Rio Rancho’s vehicles for the past seven years.

Universal also works on high performance cars, racecars, drag strip cars, armored trucks and even motor homes.