After 75 years, Earnhardt still embraces “No Bull” philosophy

Earnhardt Auto Centers celebrates their 75th anniversary this year!

Founder Tex Earnhardt opened a single Ford franchise in Chandler in 1951. At age 21, he was the youngest-ever Ford franchise owner. The first Earnhardt dealership truly grew one vehicle at a time — Tex would need to sell one car before he could afford to purchase the next one. 

Over the years, the Earnhardt organization expanded, opening more dealerships with Tex at the head. Tex’s straight-shooting style and catchphrase, “That ain’t no bull,” endeared him to generations of Arizonana. 

Tex’s sons, Hal and Jim Babe, joined him in the business, and so did several of his grandchildren, making it a true family business. Tex passed away in 2020 at the age of 89, and his family continues his legacy today. 

Today, Earnhardt represents 15 brands at 17 dealership locations around the Valley, with full auto maintenance services available at most locations. They also offer collision repair services for any make or model of vehicle, with skilled glass, metal and paint technicians all in-house at their auto body shop located in Gilbert. And with the No Bull Express car buying service, customers can purchase an automobile from the comfort of their homes or offices.

Earnhardt Auto Centers also has a long history of supporting local causes. In addition to participating in community events, including a bicycle donation drive and collecting gently used sports gear for kids, the company chooses a charity each quarter as the beneficiary of employee payroll deductions. Recipients have included Hospice of the Valley, the Armed Forces Relief Trust, Phoenix Children’s Hospital Foundation, United Food Bank and the Arizona Humane Society. 

As part of their 75th anniversary celebration, Earnhardt Auto Centers has made surprise donations to local charities. This included a recent contribution of $12,575 to Make-A-Wish Arizona.

Happy 75th anniversary to Earnhardt Auto Centers!

About the Author:

Carolyn Sostrom

Biography:

Carolyn Sostrom is a long-time Arizona resident who loves desert sunsets, warm weather, Zumba, and the Western lifestyle.

She attended Saguaro High School in Scottsdale and then Arizona State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in journalism. Similarly to the protagonist in *The Devil Wears Prada*, Carolyn moved to New York City right after college. She started working for the fashion magazine company Conde Nast but never transitioned to the dark side. After a few years, she left New York in the rearview mirror and returned to her home state, taking a reporter job at the *Apache Junction Independent*.

With over 30 years of freelance writing experience, Carolyn especially enjoys writing about community events and profiling individuals who are making a difference in their communities. She had the pleasure of interviewing a variety of cowboy personalities for an article she wrote for the *Scottsdale Independent* about the history of DC Ranch and its roots as a working ranch. Now, her Western adventures with CLN have her diving into the rugged automotive scene, exploring the trucks and rigs cowboys rely on for work, home, and play, a niche where grit meets horsepower.

She works for a nonprofit in Phoenix that assists families of children with disabilities. Carolyn also volunteers with the Autism Society of Greater Phoenix.

Carolyn believes that everyone has a story, and she loves connecting with others to hear their stories. She’s dedicated to ethical journalism and accurate reporting, which shines through in her storytelling.

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