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

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
Full diagnostic and repair capabilities on all makes and models. Engine, transmission, drivetrain, and complex systems.
Oil changes, tire services, multipoint inspections, maintenance, and routine care.
Your primary point of contact. Translates technical findings into plain language and builds your Care Plan update report.
Scheduling, follow-up, Car Cash rewards, and making sure every visit exceeds your expectations.
NAPA AutoCare Center
AAA Approved Repair Facility
5× Carfax Best Rated
BG Products Partner
ASE-Certified Technicians
Veteran Owned & Operated
We'd love to earn your trust. Schedule a service and experience the Certified difference firsthand.
Reserve Your Spot