Experts On Import Autos
Brandy Werner • January 29, 2025
THE EXPERTS ON IMPORT AUTOS
Hello, I am Chris Werner, the owner of Werner’s Elite Auto. When it comes to the automotive industry, you could say it is "in my blood," and you would be right. My passion and talent for all things mechanical have been passed down through generations of the Werner family. As a child, I would take apart anything I could find on the farm to understand how it worked. I was never completely satisfied; I was always curious and sought ways to do things better.
It was no surprise to my friends and family when I chose a career in the automotive industry. I spent my first six years in Holstein, Iowa, gaining as much experience as I could in the domestic market. During this time, I witnessed poor design, multiple failures of low-quality products, and reactive manufacturing recalls that stemmed from a flawed business model and maxed out my ability to grow as a technician.
In 2002, Audi of America discovered me online and offered me a position servicing their brand. Captivated by their performance, style, personality, and design, I accepted the offer and never looked back. Since then, I have dedicated my career to working with European and high-end Asian brands. I am manufacturer-certified in VW, Infiniti, Land Rover, Jaguar, Audi, and Acura. Brands that provide quality builds and innovative engineering, offering customers peace of mind in an asset I can confidently support.
The alignment of my values with these brands planted seeds of a dream to someday own my own shop. I noticed the dealership experience was often cold, lacking personal connection and emotional engagement. I always aspired to create something different, special, and unique that would stand out from the average experience.
In 2020, an opportunity came my way, and in July 2021, we celebrated our grand opening. I managed every aspect of the business by myself until July 2022, when my son, Ryan, joined the team. In 2023, we expanded our focus to include Vintage European and Classic cars and by early 2024, we were finalizing the purchase of the building next door to establish a dedicated facility for Vintage and Classic vehicles. During this time, my wife, Brandy, joined us as our Chief Financial Officer (CFO), and her son, Christian, came on board as our Parts Advisor. Each addition brings us closer to what I envisioned. A business based on character and values. A People First philosophy.
Our core values—People, Integrity, Community, Growth, Innovation, and Excellence—are evident at every stage of our operations. These values form a solid foundation of character that attracts top talent and a loyal client base to Werner's Elite Auto. While we may not cater to every make and model, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional full-service care for the brands we specialize in. If your vehicle was manufactured in 2000 or earlier, it falls into our Vintage/Classic category, no matter the make or model.
We greatly appreciate the ongoing support from our community, which has allowed us to create outstanding experiences for our clients and has significantly contributed to our rapid growth. If you're in search of an amazing experience, we’d love to hear from you!
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Understanding the Difference Between Import and Domestic Vehicles Werner’s Elite Auto is Central Iowa's premier Import Auto Specialists, redefining luxury automotive care by providing an Elite experience for owners of European and Asian autosFounded in 2020, Werner's Elite Automotive was born from a 24-year dream to provide truly exceptional service in the import car market. As a full-service auto center, we specialize and exclusively service European and Asian vehicles. Passion for Cars. Devotion to You . At Werner's Elite Automotive, we believe you deserve more than just basic knowledge and ordinary service. From the moment you walk through our doors, we strive to make you feel like a part of the Werner's family. We’re here to redefine what luxury automotive care should be. Every service, every detail, every interaction reflects our unwavering commitment to precision, performance, and elevated standards. At Werner’s Elite Auto, we often hear confusion around the terms import and domestic. Let’s clear it up: an import vehicle is any make or model originally designed or engineered outside the U.S.—though many are assembled right here in America. Take Honda, for example. While Japanese in origin, many of its vehicles are built in U.S. factories, combining global engineering with domestic production. The distinction goes far beyond geography. It’s rooted in design philosophy, engineering priorities, and brand identity. Domestic vehicles—produced by American manufacturers such as Ford, Chevrolet, and Dodge—typically emphasize a perceived lower acquisition cost with parts and service accessibility at your fingertips - but tend to have a shorter expected service life. Asian imports, like Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Hyundai, and Subaru, are generally engineered for reliability, longevity, and low maintenance costs. Their focus is on practical functionality and proven technology. These vehicles are built to last—often becoming trusted companions passed down across generations. European imports offer a different mindset altogether. Brands such as Audi, Jaguar, Land Rover, Porsche, and Volkswagen are renowned for their refined performance, advanced suspension systems, luxurious interiors, and cutting-edge technology. They lead in areas like driver assistance, safety systems, and engineering precision. However, this level of excellence comes at a premium—both in initial purchase price and ongoing maintenance. These vehicles require specialized parts, proprietary diagnostics, and technicians with deep brand-specific expertise. This is where specialization truly matters. Whether you drive a high-performance European model or a dependable Asian import, your vehicle deserves more than generic service. Technicians who specialize in specific brands develop an invaluable knowledge base, enabling them to recognize patterns, proactively solve issues, and apply precise, brand-specific strategies that extend the life and performance of your vehicle. Understanding your goals as an auto owner is key. If you're aiming to protect your investment, reduce long-term costs, and drive a vehicle that reflects your individuality, an import may be the right fit. If you're looking for a short-term solution with a lower upfront price, a domestic vehicle might appeal—though rising domestic prices are beginning to narrow the gap. No matter what you choose, do your homework. Every dollar you spend is a vote. Understand what the brand represents. Choose one that aligns with your values—and you’ll drive away confident you made the right decision. Ready to experience the Elite difference? Call now to book your service.
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August means it's time to prepare your student for back-to-school. Whether they’re heading to college or starting a new school year, ensuring their car is in top shape is essential. Here’s a quick guide to get a vehicle ready: 1. The Basics: Proper maintenance not only helps avoid breakdowns but also enhances their driving experience and safety. Here are the basic items to address before heading back to school: • Oil Service: An oil change service is a must before long drives. • Tire Pressure: Proper inflation boosts fuel efficiency and safety. • Brake Lights: Ensure all lights are operational to avoid unsafe conditions and potential stops from law enforcement. • Fluid Levels: Top off coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. • Climate Preparation: Ensure the coolant and windshield washer fluid are rated for the expected climate. • Battery Health: Test and clean any corrosion; replace if older than 5 years. • Emergency Kit: Stock with a first aid kit, jumper cables, and a flashlight. 2. Essential Dashboard Warning Lights to Watch For: Dashboard warning lights are more than just a display of colorful icons—they are crucial indicators of your vehicle's health and performance. Ignoring these warnings can lead to unexpected breakdowns, costly repairs, or even dangerous driving conditions. It's essential to be aware of what each light signifies. • Red Lights: Indicate critical issues needing immediate attention. • Yellow/Amber Lights: Signal warnings that require prompt action. 3. Plan for Regular Maintenance: For students, managing car maintenance goes beyond mere convenience—it's essential for their safety, well-being, and peace of mind as they balance academic and personal responsibilities. Failing to perform regular maintenance checks can result in various problems, ranging from minor inconveniences to significant safety risks. Safety First: Regular checks prevent accidents due to mechanical failures. • Peace of Mind: A well-maintained car lets you focus on studies. • Reliability: Consistent care extends your vehicle's lifespan. • Prevents breakdowns by catching issues early or addressing them proactively. • Save money on costly emergency repairs. We recommend consulting a brand specialist to determine the best maintenance schedule for your vehicle. Drive safe and enjoy the school year! Happy motoring!! Chris
Extended Vehicle/Car Warranties: An Overview
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