Christian Gomes bought his first car – a 1985 BMW 318i with 130,000 miles on it – eight months before he was old enough to get his driver’s license.

He’s been in love with cars ever since.

Earlier this month he joined Stratton Auto Group as shop manager of Bluffton Auto Repair Center, 302 N. Main St. He accepted the position upon the retirement of Jim Kinn.

Originally from New York state, Gomes is a December graduate of University of Northwest Ohio, Lima. He holds degrees in applied science plus automotive technology, high performance and commercial driving.

“I’ve always thought of myself as a hand-on technician,” adding that “cars have always fascinated me,” he said.

From his office at the corner of Main and Jefferson, Gomes will schedule all customer vehicle needs.

The repair center handles everything from oil changes, basic maintenance, advanced diagnostics, wheels and tire, to heating and cooling systems.

Gomes says the center also does installation of lift kits, running boards and wheel upgrades.

“This month’s special offer from Stratton’s is receive $60 off a set of four new tires when mentioning that you saw it on the Icon,” he added.

Bluffton Auto Repair Center now has a Facebook page and e-mail, [email protected]

Stratton Auto Group
• Stratton Auto Sales – 419-358-1900
• Main Street Rentals – 419-358-1110
• Bluffton Auto Repair – 419-358-0303