When it comes to buying or servicing a vehicle, convenience matters. But more and more customers throughout Fredericksburg, Comfort, Llano, Harper, and the surrounding Texas Hill Country are discovering something important: the right dealership is worth the drive. At Crenwelge Motor Sales, we’re proud to serve not only our local community, but also customers who travel from neighboring towns, and even out of state because they’re looking for something different. So what makes a family-owned dealership worth the trip? Built on Values That Never Go Out of Style Our commitment to honesty and integrity didn’t start yesterday. It started in 1927 when Ruben Crenwelge opened his Service Station in Fredericksburg, TX. Those principles were passed down and continue to guide our family business today! Milton Crenwelge, one of Ruben's sons, shared in a feature with Dealers’ Choice Magazine that some things never go out of style: “Good business ethics, good morals, good principles, and honesty never go out of style.” After World War II, a customer once offered to pay an extra $100 to move ahead on the vehicle delivery list. Milton’s family refused. “We don’t work that way,” he said. And as Milton noted, “We’re still here.” Today, Crenwelge Motor Sales remains a true family operation, led by Tim and Jon Crenwelge, with granddaughter Katherine joining the team in 2025. With a family member always present, that personal connection has never been lost. It’s this commitment that built the foundation of the Crenwelge Automotive Group, and still defines how we care for every customer today. You can read the full interview with Milton in Dealers’ Choice Magazine here: Selling, Service and Civic Leadership: An Interview with Milton Crenwelge The Difference You Feel at a Family-Owned Dealership Large corporate dealerships can sometimes feel transactional. At a family-owned dealership like Crenwelge Motor Sales, relationships matter. That means: Transparent pricing on new and pre-owned vehicles Honest recommendations without pressure Sales and service teams who genuinely listen and guide you Service teams who take time to explain repairs Long-term relationships, not one-time transactions The People Who Make the Difference Our history is important, but our people are what truly set us apart. We are incredibly blessed to have team members who have devoted decades of their lives to serving customers throughout Fredericksburg and the Texas Hill Country. Julia Weed – Office Manager (52 Years) For more than five decades, Julia has been the steady, organized heart of our dealership. With an exceptional understanding of the ins and outs of every department, she plays a vital role in keeping everything running smoothly day in and day out. Her experience and consistency have made her a true cornerstone of our team, and our dealership wouldn’t be what it is today without her. Julia has a remarkable memory and an incredible gift for details. She knows our customers on a personal level, what they need, and even important milestones like birthdays and anniversaries. For families who have trusted our dealership for generations, Julia often remembers children, parents, grandparents and even great-grandchildren, making every visit feel personal. No matter how many responsibilities she’s juggling, Julia follows through with determination while truly caring for the customer. She’s the first to arrive in the morning and the last to leave at the end of the day. More than her strong work ethic, it’s her genuine care for people that truly sets her apart. Julia consistently goes the extra mile to make others feel valued, which is why customers continue to return year after year. We are deeply grateful for Julia, our dealership simply wouldn’t be the same without her five-star service. Jon Crenwelge – Owner (40 Years) With more than 40 years in the automotive industry, Jon Crenwelge has truly grown up in the business. Having witnessed firsthand how the industry has evolved, he brings a deep understanding of both its history and where it’s headed. By staying in tune with changing market needs, Jon continues to serve customers with insight, experience, and a high level of expertise. His 35 years as a Chamber Ambassador and service on the Chamber Board have also given him a strong connection to, and understanding of the local business community. Known for his strong product knowledge, Jon is passionate about helping customers find the right vehicle for their needs. He especially enjoys sharing his expertise when it comes to towing and road-tripping, whether it’s recommending the right vehicle, offering camping advice, or explaining safe hauling techniques and proper maintenance to ensure every trip is a success. What truly distinguishes Jon is the genuine care he brings to both his team and the community. He dedicated over 30 years as Entertainment Chair for our local hospital and now continues that impact through his work on the Create Healthy Foundation Grant Board. He takes the time to listen, understand, and guide customers with integrity and care. As a leader, he balances accountability with compassion, inspiring those around him to take pride in their work while consistently supporting his team, customers, and family. Don Lochte – Technician (40 Years) Don Lochte began his journey with the dealership while still in high school through Fredericksburg’s ‘Automotive Program,’ working afternoons and building the foundation for what would become an exceptional career. Over the past 40 years at Crenwelge Motor Sales, Don has grown into a highly respected technician and a true cornerstone of our service department. As a Stellantis Master Technician, one of the highest honors in the industry, he brings unmatched knowledge, craftsmanship, and dedication to every vehicle he works on. Don’s skill set extends far beyond the shop. He has a natural ability to figure things out and a drive to master whatever he takes on. Whether it’s rebuilding vehicles or renovating his family’s German rock house, where he even completed the wiring himself. Don approaches every project with curiosity, determination, and attention to detail. Long before hands-on learning became a focus in schools, Don was already a prime example of its value, developing real-world skills during his time at Fredericksburg High School that continues to define his work today. What truly sets Don apart is his problem-solving ability, common sense, precision, and pride in his work, giving customers confidence every time they visit. With his strong sense of practical judgment, he consistently evaluates situations in ways that save time and money. Don represents the experience, integrity, and work ethic that have defined Crenwelge Motor Sales for generations, and we are incredibly fortunate to have him as part of our team. Bryan Mauldin- Service Advisor (30 Years) For more than 30 years, Bryan Mauldin has faithfully served our customers and become a familiar, trusted face in our service department. Known for his big heart and genuine care for people, Bryan makes sure every customer feels valued, heard, and truly taken care of. His ability to remember names and build lasting relationships is one of his greatest strengths, creating a level of trust that keeps customers coming back year after year. Bryan has a natural gift for connecting with people. Whether he’s taking the time to listen, sharing a laugh, or simply brightening someone’s day, he brings a personal touch to every interaction. As a lifelong resident of Johnson City, Bryan reflects the integrity, honesty, and strong values of a small-town community, qualities that have played a big role in his 30 years of success at the dealership. He’s the kind of person who would stop to help if you were on the side of the road, no questions asked. Outside of work, Bryan enjoys playing guitar and singing, bringing the same warmth and personality to his music as he does to his customers. He and his wife, Martha, also love spending time in the kitchen, cooking and trying new recipes. Bryan’s kindness, humor, and dedication make him an invaluable part of our team, and one of the many reasons our customers feel right at home. Ernie Crenwelge – Parts Manager ( 25 Years) As a dedicated Parts Manager, Ernie continues the tradition of service and commitment that has defined our dealership for generations. A Fredericksburg High School graduate who married his high school sweetheart, Laurie, Ernie brings a genuine hometown connection to his work. With decades of experience working for both General Motors and Stellantis, his expertise is unmatched and helps keep our Service Department running smoothly every day. Ernie is known for the genuine care he shows every customer who walks through the door. He gives each person his full, undivided attention, taking the time to listen, understand their needs, and provide the best possible solution. A natural problem solver with a positive attitude, Ernie has a way of making everyone feel valued, respected, and confident they are in good hands. With a big heart and a team-first mindset, Ernie is always ready to lend a hand wherever he’s needed. His kindness, reliability, and dedication make him not only a trusted resource for customers, but also an invaluable part of our team. When he’s not at the dealership, Ernie can be found ranching in the Doss community, carrying the same work ethic, integrity, and care into everything he does. Shawn Maxcey – F&I ( 22 Years) For more than 22 years, Shawn has guided customers through their vehicle, financing, and warranty decisions with honesty, clarity, and genuine care. While his product knowledge is exceptional, his true strength lies in how he connects with people listening carefully, understanding their needs, and ensuring they feel confident in every decision. Shawn has a natural gift for making complex information easy to understand. Whether he’s explaining protection plans or helping customers select the right vehicle for towing, hauling, or recreational use, he always keeps their best interests in mind. Raised on a ranch in San Saba, Texas, he brings firsthand knowledge of trucks, RVs, and hauling, giving him unique insight into what customers need and how to protect their investment. Known for his strong work ethic and servant’s heart, Shawn consistently goes the extra mile, whether assisting customers or supporting his coworkers. Anyone who interacts with him leaves feeling encouraged, valued, and cared for. A devoted family man, Shawn cherishes time with his wife Lori and their children, all proud Texas A&M graduates, exemplifying dedication, kindness, and integrity qualities that make him not only a trusted team member but also an extraordinary person. Together, these individuals represent 209 years of combined service to Fredericksburg and the surrounding Hill Country. Their dedication, loyalty, and care are what make Crenwelge Motor Sales a dealership where customers and employees are family. While we’ve highlighted team members with 20 or more years of service, the truth is this: every single person at Crenwelge Motor Sales plays a vital role in who we are. Whether someone has been here for a few months, a few years, or several decades, each team member contributes to the culture, care, and commitment our customers experience every day. It takes every department, every position, and every personality to create something special, and we are deeply grateful for each and every employee who makes Crenwelge Motor Sales such a wonderful place to work and to do business. Experience the Difference at Crenwelge Motor Sales Whether you're shopping for new or pre-owned vehicles, exploring financing options, or scheduling service, we invite you to experience the difference that comes from a dealership built on integrity. Browse our inventory online Value your trade Schedule service At Crenwelge Motor Sales, something beautiful happens over time, customers turn into friends, and friends become family. That family atmosphere is something you can feel the moment you walk through our doors. We are blessed beyond measure to serve Fredericksburg, Comfort, Llano, Comfort and the surrounding Texas Hill Country. The trust our customers place in us is something we never take for granted. We are deeply grateful for our team, for our history, and for every person who chooses to make Crenwelge Motor Sales part of their journey. When you visit us, you’re not just another transaction. You’re family! Sincerely, Crenwelge Automotive Group
