Our story · Pottsville, Pennsylvania

Local roots.
Attention in every detail.

Meet the family behind Dirty Detailz: two brothers, 50+ years of combined detailing experience, and a shared commitment to every vehicle.

Our Story

From a small garage
to Dirty Detailz.

Our story began in a one-and-a-half-car garage in Valley View, Pennsylvania. Shawn Blankenhorn founded Shawn’s Auto Detailing while building his career in automotive electronics and customization.

A move to a larger, more centralized Pottsville location next door to the audio shop marked the birth of Dirty Detailz. Today, our family-owned shop has room for three to four vehicles, and brothers Shawn and Mike bring complementary skills to caring for every detail.

Mike joined the business in 2022 as demand grew. Together, the brothers bring more than 50 years of combined detailing experience, with a shared passion that began when each started detailing at age 16.

Classic Willys inside the Dirty Detailz shop

Meet the family behind Dirty Detailz

50+ years of combined
detailing experience.

Two brothers. Complementary experience. A shared passion for vehicle care.

Meet the Founder: Shawn Blankenhorn

A Lifelong Passion for Cars. A Career Built on Experience.

Shawn Blankenhorn’s passion for automobiles has been a driving force throughout his life. A 2001 graduate of Pottsville Area High School, Shawn attended Lincoln Technical Institute from 2001 to 2002, where he studied Electrical Engineering. He also studied Information Technology and Computer Sciences at the former Schuylkill Institute for Business and Technology. After working in distribution at Wegmans, he moved into the automotive industry, beginning a career in automotive electronics and vehicle customization at the former 12-Volt Dave’s Audio.

While working as an automotive stereo, remote start, and in-car entertainment specialist, Shawn was also building a business of his own. Operating out of a modest one-and-a-half-car garage in Valley View, Pennsylvania, he founded Shawn’s Auto Detailing, turning his passion for vehicles and attention to detail into a growing business.

As demand grew, an opportunity arose to expand into a larger, more centralized location right next door to the audio shop. That move marked a major milestone in the business’s evolution and the birth of Dirty Detailz. With more room to work and greater opportunities to serve customers, Shawn’s original garage operation began its transformation into the detailing business it is today.

Shawn’s journey in the automotive industry continued when the opportunity arose to take over 12-Volt Dave’s Audio following Dave’s retirement. He rebranded the business as Auto Acoustix LLC, establishing two complementary automotive businesses under one roof, with Dirty Detailz continuing as its sister company. Together, the businesses reflect Shawn’s commitment to vehicle care, customization, and delivering quality workmanship to automotive enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.

Beyond his professional experience, Shawn has remained actively involved in the local and regional automotive community. His passion for cars has taken him to car shows, car stereo competitions, and show-and-shine events, where he has participated, showcased vehicles, and served as a judge at numerous events. His judging experience reflects the knowledge and expertise he has developed through years of hands-on involvement in the automotive scene.

From his beginnings in a small Valley View garage to operating established automotive businesses in the Pottsville area, Shawn’s story is one of growth, dedication, and a lifelong passion for cars. That same commitment to craftsmanship, quality, and attention to detail continues to shape the work and customer experience at Dirty Detailz.

Built on passion. Driven by experience. Focused on every detail.

Meet the Team: Michael Blankenhorn

Leadership, Precision, and a Passion for Automotive Detailing

Michael Blankenhorn brings a unique combination of leadership, technical experience, and attention to detail to Dirty Detailz. A 1998 graduate of Pottsville Area High School, Michael went on to serve his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1998 to 2002. During his service, he served as a Fire Team Leader with the 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines, developing the discipline, accountability, and leadership skills that continue to influence his approach to his work today.

Following his honorable discharge from the Marine Corps, Michael put his hands-on skills to work as a custom fabricator, building fleet trucks and gaining valuable experience in vehicle construction, customization, and craftsmanship. Michael also studied Criminal Justice at the University of Phoenix. He later transitioned into the field of criminal justice, where he currently serves as a Lieutenant with the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections. His professional background reflects a career built on responsibility, precision, leadership, and a commitment to high standards.

Although Michael officially joined the Dirty Detailz team in 2022, automotive detailing was nothing new to him. Both Michael and his younger brother, Shawn, had been detailing vehicles in various capacities since the age of 16. When business growth and the move to a larger location created an increased demand for services, Michael stepped in to help his brother manage the workload and continue building the business.

What began as an opportunity to support the family business quickly reignited Michael’s longstanding passion for automobiles. His dedication, practical experience, and commitment to quality helped him grow into the roles of Lead Detailer and Shop Manager, where he oversees day-to-day shop operations and helps ensure every vehicle receives the care and attention it deserves.

With Shawn focusing on the operations of Auto Acoustix, Michael plays an integral role in keeping Dirty Detailz running smoothly and maintaining the standards customers have come to expect. His combination of military leadership, fabrication expertise, and years of hands-on automotive experience brings a valuable perspective to the detailing process.

For Michael, detailing is more than simply cleaning a vehicle. It is an opportunity to combine craftsmanship, precision, and a lifelong appreciation for automobiles. As part of the Dirty Detailz team, he takes pride in helping deliver quality results and making sure every vehicle that enters the shop receives personal attention.

Built on discipline. Refined through experience. Driven by attention to detail.

Our Commitment

Personal service.
Pride in every detail.

At Dirty Detailz, Shawn and Mike are committed to providing every customer with a personalized experience and treating every vehicle as if it were their own. Their shared passion for automobiles, dedication to craftsmanship, and attention to detail drive them to deliver the highest quality workmanship possible. From the moment a vehicle enters the shop to the final inspection, their goal is to exceed expectations, build lasting customer relationships, and ensure every vehicle leaves reflecting the care and pride they put into their work.

Family owned. A veteran family.

Mike and our late grandfather served in the United States Marine Corps. Their service is part of our family’s story.

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