Jay's Auto moves to new location
After four years at 89 County Road, Jay's Auto Center is moving up the street Monday to a bigger shop with more parking. The new location, at 79 County Road, will also have used cars for sale. The old shop will remain.
Here's a short q-and-a session with owner Jason Bobola, a Fairhaven resident.
How did you get in the auto business?
I started when I was a kid, turning wrenches at my mom’s house. I was always taking things apart and putting them back together. Eventually I did some school and Automotive Service Excellence certification programs.
Where was your first job?
My first job was actually at Don’s Tire, which is the building my small shop is at. I was just 13 slinging tires with Don. I've been at it a long time, but I enjoy it.
How long has this expansion been in the works?
I heard it was coming up about four months ago. It’s been a long process. Once we got things worked out with the landlord we started cleaning it up. Just a couple of weeks ago we put up signs to get people talking.
What prompted you to expand?
My lack of parking at the small shop was a big factor. It’s tough to get in and out of my shop now.
Will this shop differ from the other one?
We do everything from oil changes to engine replacements now, so the big work will be at the old shop. This shop will be for more of the quick service. And we’ll have a few cars for sale and start selling tires, which is a big deal. I’ve had a lot of people come to us asking about tires.
It’ll just be a better, more convenient place for people to get in and out of overall. Everyone in town has taken to us well, and it’s nice to keep the business local.