Blog / Car Buying Tips

5 Reasons to Upgrade Your Ride Before the School Year Starts

As summer winds down and the school year quickly approaches, it’s not just backpacks and lunchboxes you need to get ready—your vehicle plays a huge role in your family's daily routine. Whether you're navigating morning drop-offs, after-school activities, or weekend sports tournaments, having the right car can make all the difference.

Here are 5 reasons why now is the perfect time to upgrade your ride at Crenwelge Motors:


1. Safety Comes First

Today’s vehicles come equipped with advanced safety features like lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and collision prevention systems. Whether you're driving kids to school or heading out for weekend adventures, peace of mind starts with safety.


2. More Space for Growing Families

Between backpacks, sports gear, musical instruments, and after-school carpool buddies, space fills up fast. Upgrading to a vehicle with a third row or increased cargo space can help eliminate the morning chaos.


3. Save at the Pump

With gas prices fluctuating, fuel efficiency matters more than ever. Many of our latest models offer hybrid or high MPG options that can help you save money on your daily commute.


4. Take Advantage of Trade-In Bonuses

We’re offering limited-time trade-in incentives—so now’s your chance to get top dollar for your current vehicle and roll it into something newer, safer, and more efficient.


5. Beat the Rush

Avoid the end-of-summer car-buying surge. Come in now for the best selection, fast financing, and less time waiting. Let us help you start the school year with confidence.


Ready to Make a Smart Move?

Stop by Crenwelge Motors today, or browse our inventory online. Ask about our specials and let our team help you find the perfect vehicle to fit your family’s needs.

🚗 Your next school-year MVP is waiting.
📍 301 Main Street, Kerrville, TX, 78028

(830) 896-4835

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Why People Choose Crenwelge Motors — Even If It Means Driving a Little Farther

When it comes to buying or servicing a vehicle, convenience matters. But more and more customers throughout Kerrville, Ingram, Junction, Medina, and the surrounding Texas Hill Country are discovering something important: the right dealership is worth the drive. At Crenwelge Motors, we’re proud to serve not only our local community but also customers who travel from neighboring towns — and even out of state — because they’re looking for something different. So what makes a family-owned dealership worth the trip? Built on Values That Never Go Out of Style Our commitment to honesty and integrity didn’t start yesterday. It started in 1927 when Ruben Crenwelge opened his Service Station in Fredericksburg, TX. Those principles were passed down and continue to guide our family business today! Milton Crenwelge, one of Ruben's sons, shared in a feature with Dealers’ Choice Magazine that some things never go out of style: “Good business ethics, good morals, good principles, and honesty.” After World War II, a customer once offered to pay an extra $100 to move ahead on the vehicle delivery list. Milton’s family refused. “We don’t work that way,” he said. And as Milton noted, “We’re still here.” This mindset became the foundation of Crenwelge Automotive Group — and continues to define how we treat every customer today. You can read the full interview with Milton in Dealers’ Choice Magazine here: Selling, Service and Civic Leadership: An Interview with Milton Crenwelge The Difference You Feel at a Family-Owned Dealership Large corporate dealerships can sometimes feel transactional. At a family-owned dealership like Crenwelge Motors, relationships matter. That means: Transparent pricing on new and pre-owned vehicles Honest recommendations without pressure Sales and service teams who genuinely listen and guide you Service teams who take time to explain repairs Long-term relationships, not one-time transactions The People Who Make the Difference Our history is important — but our people are what truly set us apart. One of the clearest signs of a strong culture is longevity. We are incredibly fortunate to have team members who have devoted decades of their lives to serving customers throughout Kerrville and the Texas Hill Country. Tim Crenwelge – Owner (45 Years) With 45 years at the dealership, Tim brings unmatched passion for the business, genuine care for employees and customers, and boundless energy to meet every challenge with a positive outlook. He puts his heart into Crenwelge Motors, fostering a place where people feel valued, trusted, and part of a family — all while staying true to themselves. Tim’s gratitude for everyone who has contributed to the dealership’s success shines through in everything he does. His leadership, dedication, and commitment have helped make Crenwelge Motors the trusted, welcoming place it is today. Jim Villcheck – General Sales Manager – (34 Years) After 34 incredible years, Jim Villcheck has officially retired. Throughout his career, he played an instrumental role in helping build and shape the dealerships in Kerrville through his dedication, tireless work ethic, and genuine commitment to customer care. Jim wore many hats over the years and was someone both customers and team members could always count on. Whether answering questions, solving challenges, or simply offering guidance, he had a way of making people feel confident and valued. His leadership, integrity, and steady presence have left a lasting impact, and he will truly be missed. We are grateful for his many years of service and wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement. Brian Conner – Service Manager (33 Years) With 33 years of experience, a background as a Stellantis Master Technician, and World Class Status with General Motors, Brian now leads our service department with exceptional skill and dedication. His expertise, leadership, and commitment to excellence ensure that every customer leaves with confidence in their vehicle. Brian is a natural problem-solver with an incredible ability to analyze, calculate, and get straight to the heart of any issue. A true go-getter, Brian sets the pace for the team and inspires everyone around him to strive for the same high standard. He’s a team player who motivates and supports those around him, always willing to step in and help wherever needed. Brian stays ahead of changing technology and continuously completes training across multiple brands to ensure our department remains at the forefront of the industry. Hardworking, knowledgeable, and approachable, Brian brings both professionalism and a great sense of humor to the role. We’re incredibly grateful for his leadership as Service Manager. Julie Taylor – Office Manager (27 Years) For 27 years, Julie has helped keep our dealership organized, efficient, and full of positive energy. Her attention to detail, thoughtfulness, and dedication ensure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. Julie brings heart and joy to the workplace — from celebrating employee birthdays with monthly treats to planning holiday parties, recognizing milestones, and finding creative ways to celebrate our customers. She has a true gift for making people feel appreciated and valued. She keeps everyone on track with training, deadlines, and processes, holding the dealership together with grace and professionalism. Creative, fun-loving, highly organized, and respected by all, Julie has played a vital role in shaping our dealership into what it is today. We are incredibly grateful for her 27 years of commitment and the lasting impact she continues to make every day. Mitch McElhaney – IT/Warranty Administrator (23 Years) For 23 years, Mitch has been our go-to problem solver. Whether it’s tackling IT challenges or answering complex warranty questions, his intelligence, patience, and willingness to help make a tremendous difference for both our team and our customers. When something isn’t working — at the dealership or even at home — Mitch is the one everyone calls. From fixing computers, printers, phones and to troubleshooting technical issues, such as internet connectivity and speed, he wears many hats and handles each one with skill and professionalism. One of the most patient, kind, and knowledgeable people you’ll ever meet, Mitch approaches every challenge with a calm attitude and a determination to find the solution. If he doesn’t know the answer, he’ll figure it out. We are incredibly grateful for his dedication, versatility, and the steady support he provides every single day. Carrol Garcia – Accounts/Payable Clerk (22 Years) For 22 years, Carrol has helped keep our office running seamlessly behind the scenes. Her reliability, attention to detail, and strong work ethic ensure that our accounts receivable and payable are processed accurately and on time, helping our dealership operate at its very best. Beyond her professionalism, Carrol brings heart and energy to the workplace. She’s known for surprising the team with sweet treats, speaking her mind when needed, and keeping everyone on track. Her honesty, strength, and vibrant personality make her someone you can count on. We are incredibly grateful for Carrol’s 22 years of dedication, integrity, and the positive impact she continues to make every day Rudy Garcia – Technician, Electrical (20 Years) Rudy brings 20 years of technical expertise to every vehicle he works on. He’s one of the most outgoing and approachable technicians you’ll ever meet — able to connect with anyone, whether it’s about cars, music, art, travel, or cooking. Customers value his precision, expertise, and the peace of mind he provides, especially when it comes to complex electrical work — a craft he’s honed since growing up and genuinely loves. Beyond his technical skill, Rudy has a big heart for his family and team. His dedication, warmth, and humor make him an indispensable part of the dealership, both on and off the shop floor. Together, these individuals represent 170 years of combined service to Kerrville and the surrounding Hill Country. Their dedication, loyalty, and care are what make Crenwelge Motors a dealership where customers and employees are family. While we’ve highlighted team members with 20 or more years of service, the truth is this: every single person at Crenwelge Motors plays a vital role in who we are. Whether someone has been here for a few months, a few years, or several decades, each team member contributes to the culture, care, and commitment our customers experience every day. It takes every department, every position, and every personality to create something special — and we are deeply grateful for each and every employee who makes Crenwelge Motors such a wonderful place to work and to do business. Experience the Difference at Crenwelge Motors Whether you're shopping for new or pre-owned vehicles, exploring financing options, or scheduling service, we invite you to experience the difference that comes from a dealership built on integrity. Browse our inventory online Value your trade Schedule service At Crenwelge Motors, something beautiful happens over time — customers turn into friends, and friends become family. That family atmosphere is something you can feel the moment you walk through our doors. We are blessed beyond measure to serve Kerrville, Ingram, Junction, Medina, and the surrounding Texas Hill Country. The trust our customers place in us is something we never take for granted. We are deeply grateful — for our team, for our history, and for every person who chooses to make Crenwelge Motors part of their journey. When you visit us, you’re not just another transaction. You’re family! Sincerely, Crenwelge Automotive Group

More Than a Dealership: Proud to Serve Our Community Every Day

At Crenwelge Motors, we believe buying or servicing a vehicle should be more than just a transaction, it should feel like working with people you trust. Our journey began with a simple goal: provide honest service, quality vehicles, and a welcoming experience for every customer who walks through our doors. Over the years, that commitment has helped us grow into a dealership group that proudly serves Kerrville, Ingram, Hunt, Harper and the surrounding Hill Country communities. A Team That Puts People First What truly sets us apart is our people. From our Sales Consultants to our Service technicians and support staff, our team works hard to make sure every customer feels heard, respected, and confident in their decisions. We’re proud to see that reflected in recent customer reviews, where many guests have taken the time to recognize our Service and Sales teams by name. Reliable Vehicles & Trusted Service Whether you’re shopping for a new or pre-owned vehicle or bringing yours in for service, our goal is the same: to deliver quality and peace of mind. We carry a wide selection of vehicles and work diligently behind the scenes to ensure our inventory, pricing, and online tools make your experience as smooth as possible. Rooted in the Community As a locally owned business, community involvement matters to us. We’re grateful to live and work in such a supportive area and are always looking for ways to give back, support local events, and build lasting relationships beyond the showroom. Thank You for Your Trust We want to thank every customer who has shared feedback, left a review, or recommended us to friends and family. Your support helps us continue improving and growing, while staying true to the values we started with. If you haven’t visited us yet, we invite you to stop by, explore our inventory or schedule service. We look forward to helping you with all your automotive needs.

🎃 Family Fright Night Fun at Louise Hays Park!

📸 Check out our photo of the CrenwelgeMotors crew all dressed up for the night! This year’s Family Fright Night at Louise Hays Park was one to remember! After the July 4th flood, so many wonderful people came together to clean up and restore the park, and it was incredible to see everyone enjoying it again. Thanks to so many helping hands, the park looked amazing and was filled with the sounds of laughter, music, and plenty of Halloween spirit. Hundreds of families came out for a night full of fun, from trick-or-treating and carnival games to delicious food, rides, and an epic costume contest. Everywhere you looked, there were superheroes, princesses, monsters, and even a few people walking around on stilts! The creativity this year was unreal - hands down the best costumes we’ve ever seen. 👻 👻 Crenwelge Motors at Family Fright Night We were thrilled to be part of the event again this year! Our Crenwelge Motors booth was busy all night long with our glow-in-the-dark Pumpkin & Witch Hat Ring Toss game. Players of all ages got three chances to toss glow-in-the-dark rings onto pumpkins and witch hats taped to a big tarp, and whether they landed a ring or not, everyone walked away with candy (and a big smile!). We also had an orange Jeep Wrangler parked next to our booth! Decked out under our Texas canopy tent was spider webs and banners flying, and giant buckets of candy. Our team went all-out with costumes and handed out glow-in-the-dark bracelets and necklaces, plus plenty of candy from our overflowing buckets. From start to finish — 5:30 to 8:00 PM — our booth was packed with trick-or-treaters. It was such a joy to see so many familiar faces - friends, customers, and families, all coming together to celebrate. We’re so grateful to everyone who stopped by to say hi, play a game, or grab some candy! 🎉 Thank You, Kerrville! From all of us at Crenwelge Motors, thank you to the City of Kerrville, the amazing event organizers (The Kerrville Parks and Recreation Department),  and every volunteer who helped bring Family Fright Night to life. We’re proud to be part of this community and love seeing everyone come together for family fun events like this. We’re already counting down the days until next year’s Family Fright Night - and we can’t wait to do it again!