Nikki Puckett Bosov and Bear O'Brien are opening Fluid Community Garage at 103 E. Rockway Street on May 16, billing it as Durham's first women-, queer-, and non-binary-led community auto repair shop.

The shop will offer standard mechanic services alongside classroom lessons and a community lounge. The pair say the goal is to give customers enough knowledge to make confident decisions about their own cars — not just hand them a repair bill.

  • O'Brien is an ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician who previously ran Wrenchin Bear Auto out of their backyard. Puckett Bosov worked for AAA and the now-closed Massengill's Auto in downtown Durham.
  • The waiting room is being converted into a lounge with local art for sale. A shed on the back of the lot will become a classroom where anyone can drop in to learn how to change a tire or what to look for when buying a used car.
  • A GoFundMe is active to support the build-out. Plans for the property also include a community garden and a children's playset near a small creek behind the shed.

Puckett Bosov traced the idea back to her first year owning a car, when a mechanic disconnected her brake booster hose and then tried to sell her new brakes. She said the experience pushed her to spend two decades learning the trade.

What's next: The May 16 grand opening date is set. No hours or appointment details have been announced publicly.