About Us

Family-owned and operated for over 40 years

Often we’re asked, “Is there really a Don?” And the answer is yes. Don is our father and he started this business in downtown Madison back in 1969.

Don grew up around cars working at his father’s auto dealership in Cross Plains, Wisconsin. After marrying his high school sweetheart in 1952, Don began a career of self-employment by owning and operating a series of Texaco and Standard Oil gas stations in Middleton and Madison.

In 1969, Don opened Don the Muffler Man in downtown Madison, which became a “Madison institution” known for exhaust repairs. The business grew to provide full-service auto repair with 10 bays within a few years. In 1986, Don built a second shop on the west side of Madison that included 18 service bays.

In 1999 after 30 years, Don sold the business to us, his three sons and we work hard to carry on the tradition of good honest work at fair prices. In 2007, we felt it was necessary to change our name to Don the Car Care Man to make it clear to everyone that we do all car maintenance and repairs.

Don still lives in the Madison area with his beautiful wife of 57 years. Together they enjoy spending time with their five children and 13 grandchildren.

The three of us also live in the Madison area with our families. We work at the car care shops daily and carry on what Don started decades ago. We ensure quality, dependable service, and we’re committed to treating our customers right – just like Dad taught us.

Gary, Dave and Bill
Owners