The Tune Up Podcast

In this episode, we tackle the topic of reversing negative stereotypes toward automotive repair shops. We explore the root causes of these misconceptions, from poor past experiences to a lack of transparency, and discuss actionable steps repair shops can take to rebuild trust with customers. Tune in to discover how improved communication, customer education, and modern technology are reshaping the way people perceive auto repair services, changing the narrative around the industry.

What are the pros and cons of specialization in auto repair? How niche should a shop be? Is it beneficial to for shops to specialize by vehicle type or type of work, or better to be a shop that does it all? The big question: what is better for business? Tune in to hear the crew’s thoughts.

What if you gave every customer a $5 gift card to enjoy a coffee at the cafe down the street while they waited for their vehicle?

In this episode, the crew is coming in hot with game-changing tips and advice for shop owners to create unforgettable customer experiences and a vibrant presence within their local communities. Tune in to get access to creative ideas that are both practical and simple to execute, regardless of budget or business size.

Links to resources discussed in this episode:
https://www.youtube.com/@ConceptIIIPerformance
https://www.shopmonkey.io/

Launching a successful auto repair shop is no small undertaking, but getting off on the right foot can make all the difference. Establishing the right tools and processes early on can lead to long-term benefits—more efficient operations, improved organization, an enhanced customer experience, and better insights into the business. It's also about creating a strong work culture that helps you attract and retain great employees. Tune in to hear the crew’s thoughts and discussion. 

3:10

Kyle

The youtube video will be publishing at 6am tomorrow (June 4)

Online reviews — get them...or die? In this episode of the Tune Up Podcast, the crew discusses why it is critical for automotive shop owners to own and manage their online presence. Learn about the obvious (and not so obvious) benefits of gathering and responding to customer reviews and discover some practical steps to boost your online reputation.

Watch the full video of the podcast on the Shopmonkey Youtube channel: https://youtu.be/kZyndMJpY58

Does AI play a significant role in the near and distant future of the automotive service industry? In this episode, the team tackles the topic of how AI might assist the various roles within shops and where we see it starting to show up already. We also discuss why some people are afraid of AI, and whether or not they should they be. Tune in to hear the crew's thoughts.

In this episode of The Tune Up Podcast, the crew discusses various pay structures for automotive shops. What are the pros and cons of staff pay structures such as hourly, flat rate, salaried, hourly with bonus incentives, etc. and how do these impact a shop’s bottom line and ability to retain top talent? On the customer side of things, how do labor rates play into how a car owner perceives a shop? How can service advisors or shop owners communicate value to customers so that they understand a higher labor rate than other shops in the area? And practically, what are the easiest moves a shop owner can make to justify increasing labor rates? Tune in to hear the crew’s thoughts.

It's been an exciting inaugural season of The Tune Up Podcast! Join us for a rapid-fire recap of topics we discussed in 2023. The team talks about favorite cars, facial hair, and our favorite automotive topics from season 1 of the podcast — including everything from shop design and experience to shop pricing.

In this episode, we discuss the macroeconomic trends that impact the auto repair industry, what to look out for, and what to do about it.How can shops reframe seasonal downtimes as an opportunity to improve overall shop performance somehow?Should shop owners look inward and incentivize technicians to learn a new skill or pursue a certification, or look outward and build up customer relationships to encourage shop loyalty, trust, and repeat business?