Car Rental and Shuttle Services for Auto Repair Shops

In this episode of the Garage Grit Podcast, host Brad Hurlock of AA Shop Marketing discusses solutions for customers who drop off their cars and need another ride. The discussion features three auto repair shop owners: Stephan from Indiana, Brian from Michigan, and Brian from Iowa. They explore different approaches like shuttle services, rental programs, and ride shares, sharing their successes, challenges, and insurance implications. The conversation also touches on the benefits of offering loaner vehicles, strategies for slow-day marketing, and the importance of personalization in customer communication.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Today's Topic

00:44 Meet the Shop Owners

01:02 Brian from Finkle Automotive Shares His Approach

02:17 Brian Rooney's Current System and Challenges

03:04 Stephan Carroll's Hybrid Approach

04:11 Discussion on Shuttle Services and Customer Preferences

04:53 Challenges and Solutions in Providing Loaner Cars

17:07 Insurance and Liability Concerns

17:48 Stephan's Evolution to a Rental Fleet

28:14 Weather Considerations and Customer Experiences

33:20 Exploring Shuttle Services

34:35 Building Customer Relationships

35:39 Luxury Shuttle Ideas

36:24 Concerns and Safety Measures

41:32 Insurance and Rental Programs

47:51 Handling Customer Complaints

56:03 Managing Courtesy Vehicles

58:30 Final Thoughts and Future Topics

01:01:52 Marketing Strategies for Slow Days