TAC Transmission and Custom Exhaust - Our History
Downtown Transmission, at 375 Logan Street, opened for business as a full service gas station on January 9, 1950. Fred Manikowski owned and operated the business and employed his brother Anthony Manikowski and his son Ralph Manikowski.
In 1960, Anthony and Ralph Manikowski bought the business, and began to carve out their niche in this central California location. Ralph specialized in carburetion and Anthony in front end repair. In the 1970's, when full service gas stations were closing at an alarming rate due to both gas crises, the Uncle & Nephew team were able to stay in business because they had a well established clientele and good business sense. They even purchased a second location at Alameda & Downing, and in 1985, Steve Manikowski, Ralph's son, purchased and operated the business.
Steve ran a thriving business due to very long hours and much dedication to his customers. He became well known for solving the most difficult car problems. Steve's Math & Science educational background aided Steve in learning as much as possible about the new computer controlled vehicles that other technicians were intimidated by. So this began his loyal following in the Washington Park neighborhood. In 1989, Anthony & Ralph sold the property on Alameda and Downing to Total Petroleum, so Steve then partnered up with his Uncle at the original 375 Logan Street location. Steve and Anthony were partners briefly from 1989-1992. In 1992, Anthony retired and Steve took over as sole owner of the business at 375 Logan Street.
At Manikowski's today, we specialize in all makes and models; all service and repair. We pride ourselves in being your one stop automotive center. You will still be greeted by family members and you will receive personalized treatment that only a facility with over 58 years of tradition can offer. Our technicians are ASE Certified Master Technicians, who care about your vehicle like it was their own. We only perform the needed repairs and service that you authorize and we also guarantee our repairs with an 2 years/24,000 mile warranty that is unmatched by others in our industry.
Manikowski's Auto Repair Center has come a long way in over 58 years; from operating out of a cigar box for a cash register to complete computerization. What has remained the same is our commitment the Manikowski family established so long ago, providing quality repairs with up to date repair technology and doing it with honesty and integrity.7
