Chariots of Fire

About Us

A History of Automotive Excellence

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Behind every vehicle we customize stands years of practical experience in various facets of the automotive industry.

Chariots of Fire’s financial strength originates from a family-owned-and-operated chain of successful auto body & painting facilities throughout Southern California, Washington and Canada. Our 25+ years of experience in that area of expertise is evident on all of the paintwork and service we give.

Our company principals also have an extensive history in drag racing, with numerous national and divisional championships to their credit. Still active in racing, they utilize a complete engine and dyno facility to work on motors with up to 1,200 horsepower, applying that same knowledge to the engine modification on our clients’ SUVs. All of our research and development of engines and cylinder heads is done in-house. The advancements we incorporate are advancements we create.

Owner/operator Tony Chapparone, who is regarded as one of the pioneers in the SUV customization industry, is noted for his zealous attention to detail–in fact no vehicle leaves our facility until it has been given his seal of approval. Customers really appreciate that. Tony has worked with hundreds of people from all walks of life through the years, assisting each one in turning their standard issue vehicle into a personal statement. Chariots of Fire also offers experience and expertise in upholstery work and high-end stereo installation–areas normally subbed out for completion by other customizers.

Years of hands-on experience in all phases of customization have given us an in-depth knowledge of the inner and outer workings of SUVs that you won’t find anywhere else. When it comes to entrusting your SUV with a “complete” customizing company, we make the choice very simple–Chariots of Fire.

Quality Control

Quality control is an important issue in our business. Unlike many other customizing shops, all of our work is performed at our facility, giving us the distinct advantage of precise quality control.

Each phase of our customizing process is meticulously monitored to ensure that your vehicle provides optimal performance and is immaculately detailed.

In a business where 75% or more of the companies sublet out a portion of the work, we don’t need to. We have the facility, materials, manpower and experience necessary to complete every phase–a big advantage for our customers.

The final word in our quality control is owner/operator Tony Chapparone, whose keen eye and attention to detail ensure that no vehicle leaves our facility unless it passes his industry-high standards of performance and appearance. That’s a comforting thought to our clients, who know that they will not have to return their vehicle to our facility for follow-up work.

Quality control also pays off in other ways at Chariots of Fire–in many cases, we return vehicles cleaner and in better condition than when they were brought into our facility.

Community Involvement

Chariots of Fire is very active in civic affairs, contributing to the overall good of the community. For years we have committed funds for the betterment of San Diego’s youth, sponsoring many sports teams throughout the county.