Service Consultant at Automotive Magic

Shawn Gilfillan • August 8, 2023

Lauren Praino, a dynamic and compassionate individual, has recently joined the Automotive Magic team as our newest Service Consultant. Having studied psychology and criminal justice from Luzerne County Community College, Lauren's journey into the automotive industry is an intriguing fusion of expertise.


Originally hailing from Matamoras, PA, Lauren's educational journey saw her graduate from Delaware Valley High School before embarking on her studies in psychology and criminal justice. Her academic pursuits reflect her deep-seated commitment to understanding human behavior and seeking solutions to intricate challenges.


Lauren's dedication to helping people truly sets her apart. A natural "People Person," she thrives on connecting with others and uncovering their unique needs. Her remarkable ability to actively listen and empathize allows her to collaboratively devise solutions that resonate. With a keen affinity for problem-solving, Lauren excels in her role as a Service Consultant, meticulously creating estimates for repairs, effectively liaising between customers and technicians, and ensuring seamless communication throughout the service process.



Prior to her current role, Lauren honed her skills as a service writer at an RV dealership. This experience equipped her with the knowledge required to navigate the complexities of sourcing, quoting, diagnosing, and facilitating transparent communication between technicians and customers. Her proficiency in managing these delicate situations is a testament to her adaptability and professionalism.


Beyond her role at Automotive Magic, Lauren is known to step into the shoes of a Service Consultant at our Magic Lube and Rubber location in Lake Hopatcong, showcasing her versatility and commitment to delivering exceptional service.


Outside the world of automobiles, Lauren's passions paint a vibrant portrait of her multifaceted personality. An avid lover of music and festivals, she thrives in the atmosphere of live performances. In her free time, you might find her capturing the beauty of nature through her camera lens, as she explores the great outdoors and embarks on hikes to chase the perfect sunset. Her dedication to health and wellness is evident in her frequent visits to the gym.


Lauren Praino is more than a Service Consultant; she is a dedicated problem solver, a compassionate listener, and an individual whose zest for life spills over into her professional endeavors. Her unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional service and her innate ability to forge meaningful connections make her an invaluable asset to the Automotive Magic team.


Shawn Gilfillan

Shawn Gilfillan is the dedicated owner of Automotive Magic in Kenvil, NJ. With over two decades of experience, Shawn has led his team in providing expert auto repair and service since 2003. 


In 2022, Magic Lube & Rubber was born in Lake Hopatcong, NJ. Committed to fostering strong community ties and supporting team development, Shawn prioritizes customer satisfaction above all. As a proud family man and long-time resident of Roxbury, NJ, Shawn brings a blend of professionalism and warmth to his business. 


Trust Shawn and his team for all your automotive needs with confidence and assurance.

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Summer is all about adventure — beach days, weekend getaways, long road trips to places you've been dreaming of all winter. But nothing puts a damper on those big family plans faster than a surprise car issue an hour into the drive. The good news? A quick pre-trip check can go a long way toward keeping everyone safe, stress-free, and focused on the fun ahead. Whether you’re a seasoned road tripper or just heading to the grandparents’ for a long weekend, here’s a simple, smart checklist to help make sure your vehicle is ready to roll. Before You Pull Out of the Driveway, Take a Few Minutes to Check: Your Tires Tires are one of the easiest things to overlook — until something goes wrong. Make sure all four (plus the spare!) are properly inflated. Check your owner’s manual or the sticker inside the driver’s door for the right pressure. Do the “quarter test” for tread depth — stick a quarter into the tread with Washington’s head down. If you can see the top of his head, it’s time for new tires. Look for any visible cracks, bulges, or uneven wear. That kind of damage is a warning sign worth listening to. Well-maintained tires mean better handling, better gas mileage, and a whole lot less stress on the road. Windshield Wipers & Washer Fluid Is there anything more annoying than trying to see through a streaky windshield while your kids are arguing about snacks in the back? ✔️ If your wipers squeak, skip, or smear, it’s time for a new set. ✔️ Top off your washer fluid so you can clear away bugs, pollen, or sudden summer showers with ease. Visibility matters — especially when driving in unfamiliar places or late at night. All the Fluids (Yes, More Than Just Oil) Your vehicle needs more than fuel to function safely. Give these a quick look: Engine oil – clean and at the right level? Coolant – helps prevent overheating on hot summer drives Brake fluid – vital for safe stopping Transmission fluid Windshield washer fluid – yes, again! It’s worth repeating. Don’t stress if you're not sure what you’re looking at — a trusted shop can give these a once-over in minutes. Battery/Alternator Health You don’t want to find out your battery’s on its last leg in the middle of a scenic overlook. Is your car slow to start lately? That’s a sign. Check for corrosion around the terminals. If it’s more than 3 years old, it’s a good idea to have it tested before the trip. A strong alternator keeps everything running — including the air conditioning, charging ports, and navigation. Lights & Signals It's easy to miss a burnt-out bulb, but other drivers rely on your lights to predict what you're doing. Test your headlights (low and high beams), brake lights, turn signals, license plate lights, and hazard lights. Have someone help or do a quick walk-around with your lights on. It’s a fast check that makes a big safety difference, especially when traveling unfamiliar roads. Pack These — Just in Case Even with the best prep, things happen. Having these on hand keeps you ready for whatever the road throws your way: Jumper cables A portable tire inflator Tire pressure gauge Flashlight and extra batteries First aid kit Bottled water and extra snacks Charging cords Blanket or travel towel (multi-use lifesaver!) Pro Tip: Book a Pre-Trip Inspection Want total peace of mind? Bring your car over to Automotive Magic for a quick pre-trip inspection. A professional can check your brakes, alignment, belts, hoses, and everything else you might not have time (or desire) to inspect yourself. It’s fast, affordable, and worth it. We recommend scheduling your appointment a week in advance to make sure any repairs will be done in time for your trip! You’ve packed the bags, planned the route, and made a solid snack strategy — don’t let a simple car issue sideline your trip. A little preparation today means fewer surprises tomorrow and a lot more time for family fun, scenic photos, and unforgettable memories! Happy travels — and here’s to making memories (not emergency stops)!
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