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What Auto Repair Management Software are you Using?

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Robbie
Robbie

I understand that. Maybe I took a harsh tone. I apologize. As shop owners, I think we all know what it feels like to have customers that don't value our time. I take the same tone when I hear a fr

Robbie
Robbie

LOL! You sound like a customer that never wants to pay to fix things, but then constantly whines about how their car always breaks down. Computers, operating systems, protocols, etc are always chang

Frank
Frank

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  • 4 weeks later...
Alex

Alex

Posted
Posted
I own/manage a 16 bay undercar turn general repair shop. we had old triad dos system. up graded a year and half ago with R. O. writer. pretty pleased, they have had seveal upgrades and a minum of trouble.

 

I can also vouch for R.O.Writer as I used it in a shop that I came from about 3 years ago. R.O.Writer is owned by the Midas group. http://www.rowriter.com/index.aspx

  • 1 month later...
autoguy Rising Star

autoguy

Posted
Posted
There are not a lot of good programs that focus on the independent. We use Mitchell and find it works great. We see Mitchell as a company dedicated to the independent and we need to support this.

 

I agree, Mitchell is excellent.

  • Thanks 1
  • 1 year later...
Roddor Rookie

Roddor

Posted
Posted
I agree, Mitchell is excellent.

I am interested in learing more about Mitchell. How do I find their website or more info on their system?

  • 1 month later...
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  • 2 months later...
  • 2 weeks later...
  • 1 month later...
autoguy Rising Star

autoguy

Posted
Posted
I am in process of evaluating software. I want a system that allows me to important part numbers and labor times into the estimates. I will look at Mitchell and Alldata. What others do you suggest?

 

Are you saying that you want to be able to import part numbers from your old system? Or just the ability to add part numbers..

 

I know Mitchell Manager Plus has inventory control and so does RO Writer. What are you using now and are you planning an import form that? There are some companies that can transfer your database.

  • 2 months later...
ssauto Rookie

ssauto

Posted
Posted

autoguy

Anyone using Invomax?

 

We are.... or rather trying. The company has software that crashes with every update and POOR customer service. Nice to think I could have invested $1300 in a company that cares,

autoguy Rising Star

autoguy

Posted
Posted

autoguy

 

We are.... or rather trying. The company has software that crashes with every update and POOR customer service. Nice to think I could have invested $1300 in a company that cares,

 

Wow, that's not good if it crashes all the time. with updates, how do you like it overall day to day...features and all?

ssauto Rookie

ssauto

Posted
Posted

Wow, that's not good if it crashes all the time. with updates, how do you like it overall day to day...features and all?

I like the day to day stuff. It could be great software just I feel that they release a bete version and dont care about getting the bugs out.

I just its like seeing an employee not working to their full potential...... exept I cant fire this one :angry:

  • 5 months later...
RickM Apprentice

RickM

Posted
Posted

Has anyone used or tried the Automotive Expert Management System? The adverisements look like it has a lot of good featuress. I am using Alldata Service Center now. I havent compared yet but it seems that Alldatas labor times are low on a lot of items.

TheTrustedMechanic Community Regular

TheTrustedMechanic

Posted
Posted

I use Alldata Manage. I looked into Mitchell Manager but it's too bad the repair information sucks. The first three cars I looked up info for, or rather tried to, Mitchell OnDemand was worthless. The first one had no info, Alldata did albeit limited. The second one I couldn't find the info at all in Mitchell but Alldata had good info. The last one, I gave up after that, was a 1988 Ford Ranger. I was looking for tune-up specs. firing order, #1 cylinder, spark plug gap etc. Even with the pathetic Google search I spent 35 minutes finding the info. AllData was simple, Powertrain Management / Ignitnion System / Firing Order - Spark Plugs / Specifications. All pretty intuitive.

 

As for the shop management software AllData Manage is all I've used. When I opened my shop 5 years ago I knew I wanted my service records on computer and AllData was the way to go according to the feedback on the shop management forum of another industry site. I attended a few management trainign classes and the instructor's shop used Mitchell and that's why I looked into it after seeing all the reports and information you could get out of it that I couldn't get from Manage. I also looked into R.O. Writer, never in a million years. At 15 grand it is way over priced for what I was shown. Sure it can pay for itself with all the little extra charges it heaps on your customers. A nickel here, 94 cents there and pretty soon you're talking big money. Just the way he showed it seemed very unethical to me. Cheating actually. But as for AllData Manage, I think it is a very good program as far as it goes. I would like the ability to import part numbers and prices from my online ordering through NAPA and a local independent jobber. Supposedly that's coming with a future update but right now all you can do is Autozone junk.

 

I looked into GarageOperator and was interested but the disc I got didn't work for some reason, maybe because I installed 6 months later? Reasonably priced. You own it, not subscribe to it like Mitchell and AllData. Maybe I'll contact Chip agian and get a current disc and play with it. Does anyone else use GarageOperator? How does it work for you?

  • 3 months later...
ALANBOYER Rookie

ALANBOYER

Posted
Posted

We just opened a new shop. We are using Mitchell Manager. We got it up and running pretty fast. I'm trying figure out how to enter listed labor times into my estimates ?

Southards Enthusiast

Southards

Posted
Posted

I signed up with TABS auto Biz one year ago this month. We have owned this business for 15 years and have been "rock & chisel" all along. I think I learned about TABS from someone on this sight and I couldn't live without it. I call the TABS office anytime I have a question and/or suggestion, which can be weekly, they are awesome. Very helpful and can log in on my computer to look at what I am having trouble with or trying to create. For a start up fee, and $70.85 a month, it has made me a lot of money. You will not regret connecting with them. If you do, mention our name.

  • 1 month later...
Junior Collaborator

Junior

Posted
Posted

We are in the process of evaluating shop management software right now. We currently have a product called Motorware. It has served us relatively well for nearly the last 10 years but has not kept up with our needs.

 

We need a much more robust schedule as we book work out over a week, sometimes two now. We also are looking at new ways to manage and sell regular maintenance based on manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedules. Other needs include better ways to contact and connect with our customers. Email and SMS messaging are some of the tools we are looking to add. We'd really like to add some customer self service tools also but it seems no one in the Automotive management software sector is operating on this level yet.

 

I came here a year ago after working in Technology management for 10 years so I's still a little surprised how archaic most software I've seen is compared to where technology is in other business sectors.

 

We have reviewed a few different packages and right now see only two that might meet our needs.

 

R.O. Writer, the most expensive of what we've looked at is very well put together and the people I've spoken with there are both well versed in automotive shop management as well as what software can do and should do in a business operation. This software lacks a little in a few spots, mostly the schedule. There are not as many ways to manage the work flow and it loads into the shop. No way to manage parts on order for jobs due in the future. Total visibility to the workload on the shop is limited. It does support custom report writing through crystal reports, so I can fix most of this, but for a software that's both expensive (compared to others in the sector) and advanced in many other respects I find this a significant short sight.

 

Pace software's Yes is the other that may fit our needs. The schedule in this software is the best I've seen to date. It is very robust as far as managing total work as its loaded into the shop. You can easily sort through jobs in natural states as you would see them in your shop environment (waiting for parts, needs diagnostics, waiting on customer approval, ect) The visual layout and interface could be improved but is very functional. I have been having some trouble through their demo with integration through activant. It does not seem to be very well implemented. My sales rep thinks something is wrong with their demo install and is working on fixing it now. This has left me a little weary about the stability of the software.

 

Both packages offer pretty intelligent kitting, integration with online ordering systems like wrenchhead, carquest, worldpac. They both integrate with Alldata, which we use.

 

Packages that we eliminated from possible candidates.

Gem Car

Invomax

Scott software Maxtraxx

Winworks

TABS

 

 

We use Alldata and I have heard that the Mitchell program does not integrate with Alldata. If this is not true if someone could chime in.

 

Are there other packages people are using that I should look at?

Junior Collaborator

Junior

Posted
Posted

Mitchel demo is on the way so we'll be looking at that soon.

 

Does anyone else here run the Pace Software Yes package? It seems very capable and I really like the workflow but the demo just seems to always be broken. I really need to know if this is just a problem with their demo setup or is this is systemic in their reliability. If the software would work as designed it would be the best fit that I've seen so far, unfortunately it simply doesn't work as we've seen it.

jeffg Apprentice

jeffg

Posted
Posted

Mitchel demo is on the way so we'll be looking at that soon.

 

Does anyone else here run the Pace Software Yes package? It seems very capable and I really like the workflow but the demo just seems to always be broken. I really need to know if this is just a problem with their demo setup or is this is systemic in their reliability. If the software would work as designed it would be the best fit that I've seen so far, unfortunately it simply doesn't work as we've seen it.

 

 

We use Pace Software Yes Management. Too much to go into here, would be glad to talk to you on the phone if you want. We have 12 retail locations and like most things about it. I have a bit of programming background and have been in the Automotive business for over 20 years, and have dealt with the implementation side of shop management software all of that time as well as handled the accounting and IT for 2 different multi store operations. There are some things I would sure do differently, but all in all it is a pretty good solution with a lot of bells and whistles to fit many different ways of doing things. Give me a call and I can go into the details if you like.

 

Jeff Graser

CFO

BRAKEmax Car Care Centers

520-229-9380 x 308

  • 3 weeks later...
  • 1 month later...
Junior Collaborator

Junior

Posted
Posted

We are just getting back into looking at software after a brief hiatus. I took a look at Mitchell and found it useless. The biggest problem was the schedule. Its simply a list of text lines at times. You can't assign jobs or time blocks, techs or bays. This is one of the things I need and I don't see how a busy shop can do without. Use of maintenance information from Mitchell was terrible. The software lacked most of the factory maintenance items and had incorrect maintenance intervals on a handful of cars I looked up. That information came with Mitchell repair. If you don't have the full repair information system you still get the parts and labor guide and maintenance guide with Mitchell manager. The software does not allow you to enter maintenance intervals per vehicle so if you';re trying to use CRM tools to drum up maintenance business its useless. It also can not manage estimates. Estimates created appear in your current WIP, so if you do an estimate, and the customer doesn't do the job, you have to delete that estimate and loose a record or ever quoting it. The alternative is keep it and need to see that estimate within all your current open work. This would easily be hundreds of open estimates and simply not manageable. The workflow of the software was relatively poor also. I does not follow the natural progression of work through the shop and is not customizable in any way. I saw no added benefit to Mitchell than I already see with my current management program MotorWare, which is already bought and paid for and outdated.

 

 

On another note, we are taking a second look at R.O. writer next week with an in house demo. I am still trying to be optimistic about Pace's Yes management, but they can not get their online demo to work properly and in the last week I have started to receive poor correspondence from my salesperson (read none). We'll see how that goes.

Southards Enthusiast

Southards

Posted
Posted

We are just getting back into looking at software after a brief hiatus. I took a look at Mitchell and found it useless. The biggest problem was the schedule. Its simply a list of text lines at times. You can't assign jobs or time blocks, techs or bays. This is one of the things I need and I don't see how a busy shop can do without. Use of maintenance information from Mitchell was terrible. The software lacked most of the factory maintenance items and had incorrect maintenance intervals on a handful of cars I looked up. That information came with Mitchell repair. If you don't have the full repair information system you still get the parts and labor guide and maintenance guide with Mitchell manager. The software does not allow you to enter maintenance intervals per vehicle so if you';re trying to use CRM tools to drum up maintenance business its useless. It also can not manage estimates. Estimates created appear in your current WIP, so if you do an estimate, and the customer doesn't do the job, you have to delete that estimate and loose a record or ever quoting it. The alternative is keep it and need to see that estimate within all your current open work. This would easily be hundreds of open estimates and simply not manageable. The workflow of the software was relatively poor also. I does not follow the natural progression of work through the shop and is not customizable in any way. I saw no added benefit to Mitchell than I already see with my current management program MotorWare, which is already bought and paid for and outdated.

 

 

On another note, we are taking a second look at R.O. writer next week with an in house demo. I am still trying to be optimistic about Pace's Yes management, but they can not get their online demo to work properly and in the last week I have started to receive poor correspondence from my salesperson (read none). We'll see how that goes.

I have been a user of TABS software since Nov 2009. I find it to be outstanding for my needs, www.tabsautobiz.com. There you can run the demo and check it for yourself. The staff and customer service is excellent, always get a live person, in the one location. They can log on to your computer and walk you through any dilemmas. Try them, if you go with them, please mention our shop as the referral.

Brianp Enthusiast

Brianp

Posted
Posted

We are just getting back into looking at software after a brief hiatus. I took a look at Mitchell and found it useless. The biggest problem was the schedule. Its simply a list of text lines at times. You can't assign jobs or time blocks, techs or bays. This is one of the things I need and I don't see how a busy shop can do without. Use of maintenance information from Mitchell was terrible. The software lacked most of the factory maintenance items and had incorrect maintenance intervals on a handful of cars I looked up. That information came with Mitchell repair. If you don't have the full repair information system you still get the parts and labor guide and maintenance guide with Mitchell manager. The software does not allow you to enter maintenance intervals per vehicle so if you';re trying to use CRM tools to drum up maintenance business its useless. It also can not manage estimates. Estimates created appear in your current WIP, so if you do an estimate, and the customer doesn't do the job, you have to delete that estimate and loose a record or ever quoting it. The alternative is keep it and need to see that estimate within all your current open work. This would easily be hundreds of open estimates and simply not manageable. The workflow of the software was relatively poor also. I does not follow the natural progression of work through the shop and is not customizable in any way. I saw no added benefit to Mitchell than I already see with my current management program MotorWare, which is already bought and paid for and outdated.

 

 

On another note, we are taking a second look at R.O. writer next week with an in house demo. I am still trying to be optimistic about Pace's Yes management, but they can not get their online demo to work properly and in the last week I have started to receive poor correspondence from my salesperson (read none). We'll see how that goes.

 

 

Iv never found any discrepencies on the maintenance stuff on mitchell. Were you vin decoding? As for estimates there easily kept in the revision tabs without startign a repair order. I ve done it daily for the last 10 years with no problems. I have never found any othe the issues you are describing to be true for me. Its true you cannot "customize" maintenance intervalls they are there in the factory form. I use there crm program and it also allows customers access to there information and videos onlone if needed. Autoownersite I believe. Its a great tool. Ive found mitchell to be the best in my limited experiece of using them 10 + years.

  • 1 month later...
opsrex Newbie

opsrex

Posted
Posted

Anyone know anything about VAST Enterprise retail?

 

http://www.aftersoftna.com/vast_retail

 

I dropped RO Writer in favor of VAST shortly after buying a Midas franchise. I've had my ups and downs with VAST, but all in all, I am happy with it. It works well with Quickbooks, has a great inventory tracking function, and it is highly customizable (easy to put together packages). I have VAST integrated with Activant for catalog lookup and their OpenWeb program lets me order online from CarQuest, Pronto, USAutoforce, Worldpack, and AutoZone (last resort) without leaving the estimate screen. It works well, but I have hundreds of hours over the last 3 year tweaking it so that it does what I want it do.

 

phl

Alex

Alex

Posted
Posted

Bay-MasteR Shop Management connects with multiple suppliers pulling part #'s from all different vendors right into the work order, No contracts, access to either the Mitchell data or Motor information system. A software that you can really customize to your shop. Also free and unlimited training (even for new employees after you have the system), online support AND updates. A real bang for your buck. Pricing is posted right on the website as well. www.bay-master.com

 

If you have any particular questions feel free to contact me.

 

Welcome to AutoShopOwner. I know a couple of shops that use Baymaster and are happy with it. :D

Guest Bay-masteR

Guest Bay-masteR

Posted
Posted

Welcome to AutoShopOwner. I know a couple of shops that use Baymaster and are happy with it. :D

 

Thank you! I appreciate the welcome! :D

  • 9 months later...
  • 5 weeks later...
roboutlaw Rookie

roboutlaw

Posted
Posted

I am using rowrighter and have been for about 7 years now, also using the accounting link from rowrighter to quick books

Ostrom's sales and service

Minong Wi

715-466-2377

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  • Have you checked out Joe's Latest Blog?

    • Joe Marconi
      The Toolbox is Last to Leave, First is the Heart
      By Joe Marconi in Joe's Blog
         0 comments
      It always amazes me when I hear about a technician who quits one repair shop to go work at another shop for less money. I know you have heard of this too, and you’ve probably asked yourself, “Can this be true? And Why?” The answer rests within the culture of the company. More specifically, the boss, manager, or a toxic work environment literally pushed the technician out the door.
      While money and benefits tend to attract people to a company, it won’t keep them there. When a technician begins to look over the fence for greener grass, that is usually a sign that something is wrong within the workplace. It also means that his or her heart is probably already gone. If the issue is not resolved, no amount of money will keep that technician for the long term. The heart is always the first to leave. The last thing that leaves is the technician’s toolbox.
      Shop owners: Focus more on employee retention than acquisition. This is not to say that you should not be constantly recruiting. You should. What it does means is that once you hire someone, your job isn’t over, that’s when it begins. Get to know your technicians. Build strong relationships. Have frequent one-on-ones. Engage in meaningful conversation. Find what truly motivates your technicians. You may be surprised that while money is a motivator, it’s usually not the prime motivator.
      One last thing; the cost of technician turnover can be financially devastating. It also affects shop morale. Do all you can to create a workplace where technicians feel they are respected, recognized, and know that their work contributes to the overall success of the company. This will lead to improved morale and team spirit. Remember, when you see a technician’s toolbox rolling out of the bay on its way to another shop, the heart was most likely gone long before that.

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      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/
      The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
      The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/
      Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
      The Aftermarket Radio Network
      Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.
      The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.
      The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.
      Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • carmcapriotto
      Taking An Active Role In Your Shop's Marketing [E144] - The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast
      By carmcapriotto
      Marketing isn’t just about spending money; it’s about strategy, creativity, and knowing what actually works. That’s exactly what Brian and Kim Walker unpack in this conversation with Doug DeLuca, owner of Boca AutoFix, who built a thriving auto repair shop without ever working as a technician before opening his doors.
      Doug’s IT background gave him an edge, helping him master SEO, content marketing, and social media, all while running his shop. He shares with Brian and Kim how he tracks data, refines his messaging, and attracts the right clients using unconventional but effective methods. From leveraging Facebook groups to pull in college students to secret-shopping a quick-lube competitor for blog content, Doug proves that marketing success comes from being proactive and intentional.
      This conversation tackles why not every shop needs Google Ads, how to structure diagnostic fees without scaring off clients, and the importance of community involvement. Doug’s hands-on, data-driven approach to marketing offers real insights for shop owners looking to take control of their marketing and maximize results.
      Brian, Kim, and Doug break it all down, giving shop owners a blueprint for smarter, more effective marketing.
      Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for this episode. RepairPal will introduce your shop to new customers through repairpal.com, the largest site for auto repair. Learn more at
      RepairPal.com/shops.
      Want to revolutionize your marketing? AppFueled does it all—email, text, app notifications, and even call center integration. Stop guessing and start connecting with AppFueled.
      How To Get In Touch With The Guest
      Doug DeLucca’s Facebook account 
      [email protected]
      BOCA Auto Fix - (561) 826-8834
      Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)
      ASTA
      They Ask You Answer
      They Ask You Answer Podcast Episode 093
      Which is the right fit for you? A quick lube or an independent auto repair shop?
      Google Local Service Ads
      Show Notes with Timestamps
      Introduction to the Podcast (00:00:01)  The podcast begins with a welcome message from the host, Brian Walker. Guest Introduction (00:00:10)  Brian introduces co-host Kim and guest Doug DeLuca, owner of Boca Auto Fix. Overview of Boca Auto Fix (00:00:51)  Doug shares details about his auto repair shop, including its location and age. Hiring an Apprentice (00:01:09)  Doug discusses the recent hiring of an apprentice and the journey leading to this decision. Challenges in Hiring (00:02:13)  The speakers reflect on the difficulties shop owners face in finding and hiring young talent. Marketing Journey Begins (00:03:02)  Discussion shifts to Doug's initial marketing efforts and his involvement in content creation. Background in Technology (00:04:07)  Doug explains his previous technology background and how it influenced his approach to marketing. Learning SEO and Marketing (00:04:45)  Doug describes his self-taught journey in SEO and digital marketing after opening his shop. Realizing Marketing Needs (00:06:14)  Doug reflects on his initial assumptions about marketing and the reality of attracting customers. Understanding SEO Basics (00:08:09)  Doug shares his insights on SEO and the learning process involved in mastering it. Frameworks in Marketing (00:10:25)  The conversation explores the use of frameworks in both auto repair and marketing strategies. Adopting "They Ask, You Answer" (00:11:23)  Doug discusses his experience with the "They Ask, You Answer" philosophy in content creation. Writing Blogs for Customer Engagement (00:12:21)  Doug explains how he uses customer inquiries to create relevant blog content for his shop. Experience at a Quick Lube (00:13:29)  Doug shares his firsthand experience at a quick lube to highlight differences in service quality. Experience Comparison (00:14:06) Doug shares his experience of visiting a competitor's shop to understand customer perception and service quality. Proactive Client Advocacy (00:14:57) The team discusses the importance of guiding potential clients to the right service provider based on their needs. Sponsorship and Marketing Tools (00:16:13) Brian introduces RepairPal, highlighting its benefits for attracting new customers and building trust. Customer Loyalty Apps (00:17:51) Brian discusses the advantages of using App Fueled to create customer loyalty programs for auto repair shops. Incognito Visits (00:18:20) Doug talks about visiting a competitor's shop incognito to gain insights without revealing their identity. Collaboration Over Competition (00:19:09) The speakers explore the idea of referring customers to other shops and building relationships in the industry. Challenging Competition Norms (00:20:20) Brian reflects on inviting competitors to the podcast, emphasizing collaboration over traditional competition. Marketing Involvement (00:22:42) Doug explains the ad hoc nature of their marketing efforts and the role of social media in their strategy. Community Involvement (00:27:41) Doug shares their family's volunteer work and how it integrates with their business's social media presence. Engaging the College Market (00:28:51) Doug discusses how 30% of his clients are college students and their marketing strategies. Collaborating with Local Professors (00:31:18) Doug shares his experience working with a marketing professor for student analysis of his business. Challenges of Seasonal Demand (00:32:24) Discussion on the impact of seasonal changes on business demand and local marketing efforts. Starting with Marketing (00:34:02) Doug advises new shop owners to listen to podcasts and conduct online research for marketing. SEO as a Long-Term Strategy (00:35:08) Doug explains the importance of SEO and its long-term benefits for business growth. Understanding Competition (00:36:44) Doug emphasizes the need to analyze competition and not assume marketing strategies will work universally. The Importance of Data (00:39:08) Doug highlights the role of data in assessing marketing effectiveness and making informed decisions. Nuances of Market Dynamics (00:41:14) Discussion on how geographical and seasonal factors affect marketing strategies in auto repair. Client Avatar and Marketing Alignment (00:42:13) Doug explains the significance of understanding the ideal customer for effective marketing strategies.  Overcoming Diagnostic Fee Challenges (00:43:09) Discussion on how Doug has adjusted his approach to diagnostic fees to improve customer conversion. The Importance of Evaluation Fees (00:43:40) Discussion on the role of evaluation fees and their impact on shop maturity. Improving Customer Communication (00:44:09)  Insights on enhancing customer explanations regarding services and processes. Coaching and Competitive Analysis (00:45:03)  How coaching helped refine service policies and improve customer relations. Content Creation and Marketing Strategy (00:46:32)  The significance of creating content for customer engagement and marketing. Duck Duck Jeep Initiative (00:47:05)  Fun marketing strategy involving ducks to engage with the local Jeep community. Value of Customer Feedback (00:48:46)  Importance of understanding customer inquiries and improving service based on feedback. Contact Information for Doug DeLuca (00:49:29)   Doug shares how listeners can reach him for further inquiries.
      How To Get In Touch
      Join The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on Facebook
      Meet The Pros
      Follow SMP on Facebook
      Follow SMP on Instagram
      Get The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing Book
      Email Us Podcast Questions or Topics 
      Thanks again for listening to The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast on Aftermarket Radio Network. There are some other great shows on the network and you can find them at AftermarketRadioNetwork.com or on your favorite podcast listening apps like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and many others
      Thanks to our Partners,
      RepairPal at https://repairpal.com/shops. Quality Car Repair. Fair Price Guarantee.
      App Fueled at appfueled.com. “Are you ready to convert clients to members? AppFueled™ specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for auto repair businesses. Build your first app like a pro.”
      Aftermarket Radio Network
      Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.
      The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.
      Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.
      The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.
      The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/
      Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/
      The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
      The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/
      Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • carmcapriotto
      Projections: Not Just a Bank Requirement [E161] - Business By The Numbers
      By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive
      In this episode of Business by the Numbers, Hunt Demarest, CPA, dives into the world of financial projections—what they are, why they matter, and how to build a solid financial story that banks will take seriously. Whether you’re looking to secure a loan, expand your shop, or simply set better financial goals, this episode will help you navigate the process with confidence.
      Key Takeaways:
      The biggest mistake shop owners make when creating financial projections. Why your story matters more than the numbers when pitching a loan request to a bank. The three key levers you can adjust in a financial projection: sales, margins, and expenses. How to build a realistic projection that a bank will trust. Why working with an accountant on projections can save you from financial disaster. Common red flags that make banks reject loan applications.
      Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive
      Thanks to our partner, NAPA TRACS
      Did you know that NAPA TRACS has onsite training plus six days a week support?
      It all starts when a local representative meets with you to learn about your business and how you run it.  After all, it's your shop, so it's your choice.
      Let us prove to you that Tracs is the single best shop management system in the business.  Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at NAPATRACS.com
      Thanks to our partner, Promotive
      It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit www.gopromotive.com.
      Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair
      Visit us Online: www.paarmelis.com
      Email Hunt: [email protected]
      Text Paar Melis @ 301-307-5413
      Download a Copy of My Books Here:
      Wrenches to Write-Offs Your Perfect Shop 
      The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/
      Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto https://remarkableresults.biz/
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/
      The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
      The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/
      Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
      The Aftermarket Radio Network
      Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.
      The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.
      The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.
      Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • carmcapriotto
      Preparing for May's Marketing [E143] - The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast
      By carmcapriotto
      Want to make your shop’s marketing stand out this May? Join Brian Walker and Caroline LeGrand as they break down creative ways to engage your audience, plan your content, and connect with your community.
      In this episode, they’ll share creative campaign ideas, fun social media prompts, and practical ways to highlight your team, engage customers, and boost brand awareness. Plus, get inspiration for using national holidays like National Skilled Trades Day, Road Trip Day, and even Pizza Party Day to keep your content fresh and relevant.
      Don’t miss this opportunity to simplify your marketing and make a real impact. Tune in now and start planning content that connects!
      Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for providing you this episode. RepairPal is the key that unlocks more business for your repair shop. Learn More at RepairPal.com/shops. 
      AppFueled makes marketing easy. It’s a CRM designed for auto repair shops with tools like segmentation, reminders, and even a call center. Don’t wait—get started today at appfueled.com
      Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)
      Days of the Year
      National Calendar 
      Show Notes with Timestamps
      Introduction to the Episode (00:00:01)  Brian and Caroline introduce the podcast and thank RepairPal for their support. Preparing for May Marketing (00:01:16)  Discussion on planning marketing strategies for May, emphasizing the importance of advance preparation. General Marketing Themes (00:02:00)  Overview of summer-related topics, tax return spending, and pre-trip inspections for vehicles. Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month (00:03:17)  Highlighting the importance of motorcycle safety and tips for drivers and riders. Military Appreciation Month (00:03:39)  Encouraging auto repair shops to give back to military personnel throughout May. Teacher Appreciation Week (00:04:34)  Ideas for showing gratitude to teachers, including small gestures and discounts. National Pet Week (00:05:50)  Encouragement to engage customers by sharing pet photos on social media. Celebrating Various Appreciation Weeks (00:07:05)  Discussion on multiple appreciation weeks in May and the importance of selecting key themes. Learn to Ride a Bike Day (00:08:04)  Suggestions for community engagement by helping kids learn to ride bikes. National Skilled Trades Day (00:09:00)  Promoting skilled trades and hosting events to educate youth about automotive careers. Star Wars Day (May the 4th) (00:10:26)  Fun marketing ideas related to Star Wars Day for engaging customers. National Odometer Day (May 12th) (00:11:42)  Ideas for a fun contest involving vehicle odometer readings to engage customers. RepairPal Certification (00:13:14)  Discussion on becoming RepairPal certified and the benefits for auto repair shops. App Fueled Introduction (00:14:18)  Overview of a customer loyalty app designed for auto service shops. National Lost Sock Memorial Day (00:14:54)  Encouragement for creative engagement ideas related to this fun holiday. Military Appreciation Month (00:15:06)  Suggestions for acknowledging military families and providing discounts. National Dance Like a Chicken Day (00:15:59)  Call to action for engaging with customers through fun activities. Check Your Wipers Day (00:16:27)  Importance of checking wipers before summer travel and educating clients. National Pizza Party Day (00:18:05)  Highlighting the fun of pizza party day and community engagement. Armed Forces Day (00:18:28)  Ideas for honoring military personnel and their contributions. Memorial Day Awareness (00:18:46)  Discussion on the solemn nature of Memorial Day and appropriate observances. National Road Trip Day (00:19:34)  Emphasis on preparing vehicles for summer road trips and inspections. National Rescue Dog Day (00:20:13)  Celebrating rescue pets and their connection to the auto repair community. World Marketing Day (00:20:48)  Encouragement to appreciate and promote effective marketing efforts. Paws and Pistons Campaign (00:22:41)  Combining pet care with auto services for community engagement. Prepping for Road Trip Day (00:24:51)  Continued focus on educating customers about road trip preparations. Engagement Ideas (00:25:34)  Encouragement to share personal stories and engage customers creatively.
      Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind (00:26:01)  Invitation to join the Facebook group for sharing marketing ideas and support.
      How To Get In Touch
      Join The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on Facebook
      Meet The Pros
      Follow SMP on Facebook
      Follow SMP on Instagram
      Get The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing Book
      Email Us Podcast Questions or Topics 
      Thanks again for listening to The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast on Aftermarket Radio Network. There are some other great shows on the network and you can find them at AftermarketRadioNetwork.com or on your favorite podcast listening apps like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and many others
      Thanks to our Partners,
      RepairPal at https://repairpal.com/shops. Quality Car Repair. Fair Price Guarantee.
      App Fueled at appfueled.com. “Are you ready to convert clients to members? AppFueled™ specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for auto repair businesses. Build your first app like a pro.”
      Aftermarket Radio Network
      Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.
      The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.
      Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.
      The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.
      The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/
      Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/
      The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
      The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/
      Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio


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