Crooked River Garage LLC

(108 reviews)

Auto Repair StationsOhioSummit CountyAkronChapel HillMoe Drive

Summit County . Ohio

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  • +1 330-907-4465
  • www.crookedrivergarage.com
  • 891 Moe Dr Suite G, Akron, OH 44310, USA

Operating Hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Crooked River Garage LLC Introduce

For local residents in Akron, Ohio, and the surrounding areas seeking a highly reputable and specialized solution for their vehicle's needs, Crooked River Garage LLC stands as a distinguished establishment within the "Auto Repair Stations" category. While they are renowned as the largest MINI Cooper specialist in Ohio, their expertise extends to servicing and repairing all makes and models of vehicles. Crooked River Garage LLC has cultivated a strong reputation built on honesty, integrity, and a deep commitment to both their customers and the local community.

Environment: Welcoming, Transparent, and Focused

Crooked River Garage LLC strives to create an environment that instills confidence and comfort. Located at 891 Moe Drive, Unit G, Akron, OH, the facility is typically described as clean, organized, and equipped with the necessary tools and technology to handle a wide range of automotive issues. Unlike some larger, impersonal shops, Crooked River Garage emphasizes a family-like atmosphere. They aim to make customers feel comfortable and informed throughout the repair process. This includes maintaining transparency in their operations, with staff readily available to explain diagnoses and recommended services. For those who choose to wait, the customer lounge is reportedly equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, a TV, and refreshments, offering a pleasant and convenient waiting experience. They also offer an after-hours drop-off option for added flexibility. The owner, Jon Dresser, is frequently highlighted in reviews for his personal touch, politeness, and dedication to ensuring customer understanding.

Services: MINI Specialization and Comprehensive Care for All

Crooked River Garage LLC operates as a full-service "Auto Repair Station," providing an extensive array of maintenance, repair, and even performance services. Their specialization in MINI Coopers means they possess an unparalleled depth of knowledge regarding these unique vehicles, addressing their specific quirks and common issues with precision. However, their capabilities are not limited to MINIs; they expertly handle a diverse range of vehicles. Their service offerings include:

  • MINI Specific Services:
    • MINI Service Package: A comprehensive service that includes a factory oil filter, proper oil specific to your MINI, fluid top-offs, and a thorough "BOOT TO BONNET" inspection to ensure the vehicle remains healthy.
    • Oil Leak Diagnosis & Repair: Addressing common MINI issues with oil leaks, distinguishing between typical "seepage" and excessive, dangerous leaks.
    • Coolant Leak Diagnosis & Repair: Specializing in common MINI coolant system problems such as thermostats, water pumps, radiators, and cooler gaskets to prevent overheating.
    • Suspension Services: Handling all suspension needs, from OEM replacements to performance or aftermarket setups, addressing issues like uneven tire wear, noise, or poor handling.
    • Brake Service: Offering everything from OEM replacement to performance brake packages specifically for MINIs.
    • Performance Upgrades: Beyond standard repairs, they cater to enthusiasts looking to enhance their MINI's performance.
    • Full Line of MINI Parts and Accessories: Providing genuine and high-quality aftermarket parts tailored for MINI Coopers.
  • General Automotive Services (for All Makes & Models):
    • Oil Changes: Offering standard oil changes for all vehicles.
    • Tire Sales: A full line of Firestone tires is available, and they can assist with pricing based on vehicle size and model.
    • Brake Service: General brake inspections and repairs for various vehicles.
    • Suspension Repair: Addressing common suspension issues for all makes and models, such as worn shocks, struts, ball joints, and alignment problems.
    • Engine Diagnostics: Capable of diagnosing and repairing issues indicated by "Check Engine" lights or other performance concerns.
    • Fluid Services: Beyond oil, they handle various fluid-related checks and changes.
    • Pre-Purchase Inspections: While not explicitly stated for all makes, a comprehensive auto repair station like this would typically offer inspections for potential used car buyers.

The shop emphasizes that they perform "ALMOST everything" a vehicle may need, with a strong focus on proper maintenance to keep vehicles happy and healthy.

Features: Integrity, Expertise, and Community Impact

Crooked River Garage LLC distinguishes itself through several unique features that deeply resonate with their local clientele:

  • MINI Specialist with All-Make Capability: This dual focus is a significant advantage. While they offer unparalleled expertise for MINI Coopers, they also ensure comprehensive, quality service for vehicles of all other makes and models, catering to a wider customer base.
  • Unwavering Honesty and Integrity: Numerous customer testimonials highlight the owner, Jon Dresser, and his team's exceptional honesty. Customers consistently praise their straightforward communication, fair pricing, and absence of unnecessary upsells. The very name "Crooked River Garage" is a deliberate play on the negative connotations of "crooked," aiming to convey the exact opposite: trustworthiness and transparency in an industry often perceived with skepticism.
  • Community Engagement and Charitable Giving: A truly unique feature of Crooked River Garage LLC is its commitment to giving back. They are partnered with local charities, and customers get to choose where 10% of their repair bill goes to impact the community. This initiative not only supports local causes but also builds a strong bond and sense of shared purpose with their customers.
  • Experienced and Professional Staff: The owner, Jon, is highly regarded for his skill and knowledge. Reviews consistently mention the level of professionalism and expertise, ensuring that repairs are done correctly the first time.
  • Transparent Communication: The team is known for taking the time to explain diagnoses and repair processes clearly, often providing understandable quotes and even picture-documented work in some cases, so customers fully grasp what their vehicle needs.
  • High Customer Satisfaction: Crooked River Garage boasts extremely positive online reviews, often averaging 4.8 out of 5 stars, with customers expressing deep trust and satisfaction with the service received.
  • National Connections: Despite being a local shop, they highlight "National Connections," suggesting access to broader resources or knowledge networks that benefit their repair capabilities.
Promotional Information: Value Through Trust and Care

While specific, rotating promotions might not be as overtly advertised as larger national chains, Crooked River Garage LLC focuses on providing value through its foundational commitment to fair pricing and exceptional service. Based on available information, potential promotional aspects include:

  • Competitive Pricing: Customers frequently mention "great prices" and "justifiable" quotes, indicating that their pricing is competitive and represents good value for the quality of service provided.
  • MINI Service Package: Their dedicated MINI Service Package at a stated price ($99.99 +TAX) offers a clear value proposition for MINI owners, bundling essential maintenance items.
  • Community Giving as a Value-Add: The 10% donation to a charity of the customer's choice can be seen as a unique form of value and a compelling reason to choose their service, as it extends the benefit beyond just the vehicle repair.
  • Focus on Long-Term Health: By emphasizing "proper maintenance" and "BOOT TO BONNET inspection," they promote preventive care which ultimately saves customers money by avoiding more costly repairs down the line.
  • Direct Contact for Pricing: For services like tire sales and brake service, they encourage customers to call for pricing, indicating a personalized approach to quoting based on specific vehicle needs.

For the most current information on services, pricing, and any ongoing special offers, local users are encouraged to visit the official Crooked River Garage LLC website or contact them directly via phone. Their emphasis on direct, honest communication extends to their pricing and service discussions.

In conclusion, Crooked River Garage LLC is an exemplary "Auto Repair Station" in the Akron area, particularly for MINI Cooper owners, but also a highly reliable choice for all other vehicle makes and models. Their core values of integrity, deep automotive expertise, community involvement, and transparent customer service make them a highly trusted and recommended local partner for all automotive repair and maintenance needs.

Crooked River Garage LLC Location

Crooked River Garage LLC Customer Reviews

Excellent Mini service! Jon was awesome and managed to fit me in for an oil change on a Friday with late notice. Honest, up front, didn’t try to “upsell” services as most dealerships would. And obviously has in depth knowledge of everything Mini. I’ll be bringing my R53 here from now on!

Apr 05, 2025 · Chris F

CRG is the only shop that I trust with my Minis. They are as honest and ethical as they are talented and meticulous. I appreciate that they are dedicated members of the Mini community - superfans just like their customers. Amazing people providing incredible service. I'm a customer for life.

Apr 11, 2025 · Adam Griffith

This place has an almost cult following in a Mini group of over 1.3k people (plus an additional couple thousand customers from many states) and it couldn't be more deserved. They are the best at what they do, and it's worth driving hours for them to be the ones taking care of your Mini (old or new). Waiting at the shop feels more like hanging out at a friends house than I knew was possible at a mechanic's garage. They'll give you fair prices on work/stuff, chat about how awesome Minis are, plus give free advice along the way. I literally cannot over-exaggerate how awesome this place is!

Aug 29, 2020 · Heidi Miller

Loved Crooked River Garage. Found them via a referral from another Mini owner. Really liked the vibe of their website so I reached out about Minis they had in inventory. JT was super responsive. We drove the two hours from Columbus and purchased my Mini. I have since had some maintenance done and new wheels and tires added by them. Every interaction has been excellent. Would highly recommend if you are in the market for a Mini or need work done.

Jul 17, 2022 · Rhonda Brotherton

I feel like we found an absolute gem of a business. John and Jen are amazing people who have such a passion for Minis; they know these cars inside and out. They sold my sister an '05 Cooper S. While it may not be in perfect condition, as it's a 15 year old car, I feel absolutely confident in her purchase. I feel we she got a great deal on the car for the price she paid. The car drove beautifully and was in great condition from what we can tell so far. John is extremely knowledgeable about Minis, and you can tell he puts in good and honest work. This will be the only place I feel comfortable with recommending my sister come to for service on her Mini. There's not enough nice things I can say about my experience here and I look forward to potentially buying a Mini for myself here in the future!

Aug 08, 2020 · Nathan Yost