Washington Evening Journal
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Washington, IA 52353
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Mack’s Automotive in Fairfield moves into new building
Jan. 7, 2026 11:45 am
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FAIRFIELD – Mack’s Automotive in Fairfield has moved into a new facility on South 23rd Street.
The building provides more than 18,000 square feet of workspace, according to owner Jason Craun, who opened the new facility in November. The business was previously located on South 17th Street, a few blocks to the east.
“Our new location enables us to accommodate a wide range of vehicles, from semis and buses to cars and trucks, enhancing efficiency and promoting a cleaner, safer, and more professional environment,” he said. “By expanding capacity to accommodate a larger number of vehicles, we achieve reduced turnaround times and earlier vehicle intake, thereby accelerating overall efficiency.”
Jason talked about how his business uses a premium Spanesi measuring system to achieve accurate, repeatable measurements of any vehicle’s geometry. He said the system’s high-resolution data supports meticulous defect verification, controlled re-assembly, guaranteeing that every repaired vehicle meets Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) specifications and maintains data-driven traceability.
In addition to its body shop, Mack’s Automotive also offers a paint booth. The company’s Global Finishing Solutions paint booth uses three independent paint lines, which Jason said enables “enabling precise in-house color matching and streamlined workflow for every vehicle.”
“We employ advanced microwave-assisted curing lamps to accelerate and complete the curing process before painting, guaranteeing zero shrinkage on repairs and optimal adhesion and durability,” Jason said. “This integrated system delivers enhanced color accuracy, faster turnaround, and superior long-term results for every vehicle.”
Jason is the third generation to lead the family business. It began with his grandfather, Daryl McDowell, who founded it in 1959. His father, Doug McDowell, managed the company from 1979 to 1995. In 2019, Jason reopened the shop to continue his family’s legacy, and he noted that moving into the new building on the business’s 40th anniversary feels particularly fitting.
Jason attributes the company’s longevity to a blend of relentless hard work, a touch of luck, and an unwavering commitment to customer service and high-quality work. He said he’s grateful for the customers’ trust, and he humbly notes that the loyal customer base and consistently strong Google reviews are a welcome reflection of the company’s ongoing dedication. He said that is a testament to his team’s “collective effort and unwavering standards.”

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