A good auto mechanic gets all kinds of referrals, but for most, “my grandfather told me to call you” isn’t high on the list.

The exception to that rule was Buda Automotive, a family-owned business that closed its doors for good Jan. 23 after 32 years in business.

Actually, Jan. 28 would have marked 33 years, recalled Ellie Warmington, who with husband Tim has reported for work every day at the little shop down an unpaved driveway off Loop 4 in Buda.

Behind the service bays is a sm...