History
Mike’s Collision & Repair Center had humble beginnings when Mike Gulden started this one-man, auto collision shop back in 1973. Mike added one employee in 1974, who is still with the company today. In 1977, Mike wanted to offer more to his loyal customers and added a Mechanical Shop. From 1977 to 1999 they continued to grow, and by 1999 employed 12 people.
In July of 1999, Tim Knaak and his family purchased fifty percent partnership of Mike’s Collision & Repair Center in New Ulm. With Tim’s history of proven growth, it was his mission to make this business successful, with the priority on you, the customer. The business plan included adding Class 8 Semi Truck collision repair, which would provide great service to regional truck and tractor owners. In 2003, the Knaak family purchased the remaining stock and became full owners of Mike’s Collision Center. Since then, they’ve purchased and incorporated C & A Sandblasting in New Ulm and Lindsmeier Commercial Painting in Fairfax. And in 2005, they added another division that serves manufacturing facilities. The sandblasting and painting building was expanded with a 150 x 30’ addition and a 60 x 18’ paint booth. With these additions, Mike’s Collision is geared to handle sandblasting and wet painting for small and large manufactured parts. This continued growth are thanks to their loyal customers, and the twenty-five fantastic employees that are here just for you!
Mike’s Collision & Repair Center is proud to be a part of the New Ulm area community. They have been serving the area since 1973 featuring:
- lifetime workmanship guarantees
- accurate estimates so there’s no surprises
- service that’s done right the first time
- free local pickup & delivery
- outstanding parts discounts and competitive service rates
- the fastest uptime
- free on-site estimates
- commitment to consistently training personnel and upgrading equipment
- customer service above reproach
Mike’s is pleased to offer an array of services to give you exactly what you need and with exceptional service. The name may say Mike’s can take care of your collision and repair needs, but they offer so much more.
Call Mike’s when you need the best service and parts at the right price.
Auto Body Shop
Mechanical Shop
Semi Shop
Recreational Vehicle Shop
Sandblasting Shop
On-Site Sandblasting & Commercial Painting Services
Over 30 years of happy customers has made Mike’s an easy choice when you need to get back on the road, water or snow. They do it right the first time, and are #1 in quality and uptime! Call Mike’s! 1-800-418-5708
Mike’s Collision & Repair Center is proud to be active in the New Ulm Chamber, Various youth programs, and Junior Achievement. As well as District 88 Foundation Board and local high school special interest programs such as career day and high fuel mileage cars.
Our Team

Tim Knaak
President & Owner

Brent Reinarts
Mechanical Shop Manager & Inventory Control

Scott Scheid
Auto Body Sales & Production Manager

Tim Koehler
Commercial Painting &
Sandblasting Sales Manager

John Seifert
Body Shop Team Leader

Dustin Trapp
Truck Shop Manager

Kathy Hillesheim
Office Manager

Amber Schnurrer
Customer Service &
Marketing