44 Years. Three Owners.
One Community.

From a beloved bowling alley to Crestwood's most trusted auto shop — this building has been part of your community since the 1960s.

A Building With Stories to Tell

1960s–1979

The Crestwood Bowling Alley

Before it was an auto shop, this building was the heart of Crestwood's social life — the local bowling alley where generations of families came to bowl, laugh, and make memories. Many of our clients today still remember coming here as kids. That community spirit never left the building.

1980–2001

Certified Transmissions

In 1980, the original owner transformed the space into Certified Transmissions — a specialized shop focused exclusively on transmission repair and rebuild. For over two decades, this shop built a reputation for expertise and reliability in Oldham County.

2001–2024

The Transition to Full-Service

The second owner expanded the shop's capabilities, transitioning from transmission-only to full-service general auto repair starting in 2006. The foundation of expertise and community trust remained — the scope simply grew to serve more of Crestwood's needs.

2024–Present

Nate Esau & The New Chapter

Nate Esau — former nurse, U.S. Army Combat Medic (2011–2019), and Commissioned Officer — became the third owner in 2024. Nate brought with him a new vision: a shop that doesn't just fix cars, but takes care of people. The Certified Care Plan, the 5-Year warranty, the Certified Car Cash rewards program — all born from the belief that clients deserve honesty, transparency, and a long-term partner.

Nate Esau — Owner, Certified Auto Service

Nate Esau —
Here to Serve

I started my career as a nurse — trained to listen, assess, and give honest advice without an agenda. In 2011, I enlisted in the U.S. Army as a Soldier and Combat Medic, serving until 2019. In 2019, I commissioned as an Officer, where service, leadership, and accountability became the core of everything I do.

When I took ownership of Certified Auto Service in 2024, I brought both of those worlds with me. The Certified Care Plan is modeled after how a good doctor treats a patient — your vehicle gets a health assessment, not a sales pitch. We track your car's lifecycle, tell you what's working, what to watch, and when it's time to let go.

I'm not here to maximize your repair bill. I'm here to build a lifetime partnership with every client who walks through our door. That's what "Building Lifetime Partnerships in Exceptional Vehicle Care" actually means.

Nate Esau, Owner

ASE-Certified. Experienced. Honest.

Auto Service Technician

Full diagnostic and repair capabilities on all makes and models. Engine, transmission, drivetrain, and complex systems.

General Service Technician

Oil changes, tire services, multipoint inspections, maintenance, and routine care.

Service Advisor

Your primary point of contact. Translates technical findings into plain language and builds your Care Plan update report.

Customer Service Representative

Scheduling, follow-up, Car Cash rewards, and making sure every visit exceeds your expectations.

Our Credentials & Recognitions

NAPA AutoCare Center

AAA Approved Repair Facility

5× Carfax Best Rated

BG Products Partner

ASE-Certified Technicians

Veteran Owned & Operated

Come See What We're About

We'd love to earn your trust. Schedule a service and experience the Certified difference firsthand.

Reserve Your Spot