Anything Automotive Electrical: Jerry’s Auto Electric Keeps Cloquet Moving Forward

Listen to the Podcast Here: Jerry's Auto Electric

Tucked into an industrial corridor along Cloquet’s riverfront sits a business that many vehicle owners quietly rely on—but few truly understand the depth of expertise behind it. Jerry’s Auto Electric, owned and operated by Jason Liimatainen, is a specialized automotive repair shop focused on one of the most complex and rapidly evolving areas of the industry: automotive electrical and diagnostics.

Jerry’s Auto Electric is a niche destination business, serving customers who need answers when their vehicles don’t behave as expected. As modern vehicles become increasingly computer-driven and technologically advanced, fewer repair shops possess the knowledge required to diagnose and repair electrical and drivability issues effectively.

“Automotive is getting more technical and harder to work on each day,” shared Liimatainen. “There are fewer businesses with this level of technical knowledge. I like approaching vehicle problems as a mystery and a challenge—I always ask myself, what are we going to accomplish today?”

A Specialist in a Complex Field

While many shops focus on broad mechanical repairs, Jerry’s Auto Electric is intentionally specialized. The business provides automotive electrical diagnostics and repair, drivability maintenance, brake jobs, and routine fluid work—but does not perform major engine repairs. This focused approach allows Jason to stay ahead of constantly changing vehicle technology while delivering precise, high-quality solutions.

Customers come from Cloquet and beyond, often referred by word of mouth when other shops hit a dead end. That reputation has been built over decades of consistency, expertise, and integrity.

A Career Rooted in Curiosity and Commitment

Jason’s interest in automotive electrical work began in high school, where he completed a two-year automotive course followed by a third year dedicated to automotive diagnostics. He went on to attend Alexandria Technical College, launching his professional career in 1994 as an Automotive Diagnostic Technician.

Much of his expertise was refined working side by side with his father, who had taken over the business from its founder. Together, they spent more than three decades serving the community and adapting to an ever-changing industry.

Beyond the shop, Jason has been a strong advocate for technical education. He has taught courses at technical colleges and served on various boards focused on automotive electrical coursework.

“We need the younger generation to enter the automotive repair field,” Liimatainen emphasized. “The industry is very short of technicians, and the need isn’t going away—it’s growing.”

A Business Built on Legacy and Trust

Jerry’s Auto Electric was originally founded in 1977 by Jerry LeBraeser, who opened a one-stall shop on 4th Street in Duluth under the name NA Auto Electric. Jason’s father later worked with LeBraeser and eventually took over the business, carrying it forward for decades. The company officially incorporated as Jerry’s Auto Electric in 2009.

In 2023, Jason stepped fully into ownership following his father’s retirement—marking the next chapter of a business rooted in craftsmanship, trust, and community service.

Today, the operation remains proudly family-run. Jason’s fiancé manages phone calls, scheduling, and business finances, allowing the shop to operate efficiently while maintaining a personal, customer-focused experience.

“This is a small, growing family business,” said Liimatainen. “All of our work comes from word-of-mouth referrals. I like to do my job the best that I can every day.”

A Quiet Cornerstone of Cloquet’s Automotive Community

Jerry’s Auto Electric may not be flashy—but it is essential. In an industry where technology changes faster than most consumers realize, Cloquet is fortunate to have a specialist who thrives on solving the toughest problems and keeping vehicles safely on the road.

Whether it’s an electrical mystery or a drivability issue others can’t crack, Jerry’s Auto Electric remains a trusted destination for precision, experience, and reliability.

Jerry’s Auto Electric

📍 1201 Industry Ave

Cloquet, MN 55720

📞 (218) 879-2029