Our Story
About Brake Up Auto
Family-owned and operated in Des Moines, IA since 1996. Thirty years of turning wrenches, solving problems, and earning the trust of everyday drivers.
Est. 1996 · Des Moines, IA
Built on Thirty Years
of Doing It Right.
Brake Up Auto was founded in Des Moines in 1996 with a simple idea: give everyday drivers the same level of diagnostic skill and repair quality that dealerships charge twice as much for. Thirty years later, that's still exactly what we do.
With three decades of hands-on experience across every make and model, we've built a reputation for tackling the repairs other shops turn away. Electrical gremlins, engine rebuilds, complex diagnostics — if it rolls in on four wheels, we can fix it.
We're not a chain. We're not a franchise. We're a family-owned shop that lives and works in this community, and our reputation is built one honest repair at a time.
How We Operate
What We Stand For
Honest Diagnosis
We tell you what your vehicle actually needs — nothing more. No upselling, no unnecessary repairs, no guesswork.
Real Expertise
30 years of hands-on experience means we've seen it all. From a simple tune-up to a complete engine rebuild, we know what we're doing.
Respect for Your Time
We give you straight answers and realistic timelines. Your vehicle gets fixed right the first time so you're not back next week.
Quality That Lasts
We use quality parts and stand behind our work. Every repair is done to last — not just to get you out the door.
Our History
30 Years in the Making
Experience the Difference