Alva Review-Courier -

Freedom locals gathered out on the edge of town to cheer the grand opening and ribbon-cutting celebration at JS Auto and Detailing. The business, run by Justin and Stephanie Swirin, has been operating for a year already; finally, the time was right to celebrate the life-changing decision to start the business with free food and fun folks.

Justin Swirin has found joy in working with cars, whether that was when he worked at area dealerships or during his ongoing automotive technician classes at Northwest Technology Center.

Swirin says he treasures the expressions of people when they get into their car right after he's detailed it. It is a very particular kind of joy to find your grubby old vehicle transformed into a sparkling carriage.

"I like detailing; I like the feeling of accomplishment when people light up when they see their car," Justin said. "When their vehicle shines, it brings out the shine in them."

Justin can detail vehicles at his shop, but he said a lot of his business is done where the car is. He travels all around the area, from Woodward to Waynoka to Alva, going to people's homes or businesses to detail their cars.

He also does oil changes, rotates tires, and is certified to work on brakes and engine performance. He's training now in engine repair. "The oil changes I can only do here in the shop," he notes. Many other services can be provided at the vehicle owner's place of choice.

Getting the business off the ground was a struggle, Justin admits, since he had to purchase equipment "and go through the LLC process," he said, his expression indicating it had been a less than joyful experience.

Stephanie, who handles a lot of the marketing and customer service aspects, has been essential to making it all a reality, he said.

"Stephanie's a big part of the success we've had," Justin said, "along with Taylor Phillips" who has done some marketing work for them.

The business has already changed their lives, Stephanie said.

Their plan is for JS Auto to ultimately be able to provide just about any kind of repair peoples' vehicles might need, but as Justin continues to learn the trade at NWTC they will also need to find a way to purchase a lot more equipment.

"Starting mechanic work is difficult because you need so many tools," he said. And that means more than just a few wrenches. He would like one day to have a lift put in so he can work on the undersides of vehicles more easily. He currently uses jacks; a lift would be a dream.

But Justin can see his dreams coming true before his eyes. "With the support I have in this area, I think we'll do really well."

Kathleen Lourde

Stephenie and Justin Swirin say starting up their new business has been life-changing.

Prices for detailing vary. A full detail costs about $100, but Justin has lower-cost packages for people who just want a basic clean-up. The full detail includes shampooing the carpets, removing upholstery stains, and very, well, detailed cleaning work. He also has packages like a $35 wash, wax and vacuum that he said is popular.

Justin especially recommends a full detail when you plan to sell a car. If you're selling the car yourself, potential buyers will love that nearly new-car smell and appearance. And dealerships, Justin said, size up your trade-in based on how quickly they think they can turn it around. By spending $100 on a full detail "you might get a lot more back," Justin said.

JS Auto and Detailing is located at 25804 Eagle Pass in Freedom. For more information, visit the JS Auto and Detailing LLC Facebook page, email [email protected], or call 580-819-3447.