History

Get to know Shade Tree Auto

After graduating DMAAC with a degree in Automotive Technology, our owner, Clint Dudley, started Shade Tree Auto in a small garage in Johnston, IA back in 2001. His philosophy was simple; bring back the classic repair shop that educated customers on what was needed, and what was not.

With a belief that a true repair shop should be able to repair cars and trucks, with a commitment to respecting our community, employees, and customers, Shade Tree Auto quickly became a favorite in the greater Des Moines area.

In 2005, Shade Tree Auto found a home in Grimes with a 2,400 sq ft facility, that doubled in size 2 years later when an adjacent suite opened up in the building. For the next 10 years, the little shop found success through chamber membership and community involvement. As the company grew, the need for a larger shop was apparent, and in 2017, Shade Tree Auto moved to a new 13,000 sqft building along Highway 141 in Grimes. Along the way, the little shop from Grimes began to earn the attention of the business world. Recognition came from the 2015 and 2016 US Chamber Dream Big Award, the BBB Integrity Award, the 2018 American Business Award for Small Retail Company of the Year, and 2017 and 2018 International Business Award as Small Retail Company of the year. The accolades are a testimony to our staff and support from our local community.

While Shade Tree Auto has continued to grow as a company, the mission has stayed the same; to help customers make informed decisions about their vehicle and provide recommendations and repairs that are cost-effective and within customers’ best interests.