Quantcast
Jump to content


Recommended Posts

Posted

We said we would help a high school friend by accepting payments for a HG on their envoy. It was going to be 1200 and they would put 800 down. Turned out they needed an engine and out of 3100 they put 500 down... I asked the husband 4-5 times to thing of what he can pay and let me know and I also needed at least half down. The wife ended up just showing up with no money and no idea what I had told her husband... Like a sucker I have her the car.

 

The car recently stopped on her and she called me complaint that with her "new engine" it should never break down and wanted to know what i was going to do about it... Being an envoy and being that EVERY time I see the car it's fuel light is on. Can you say GM fuel pump? Anyway it's getting towed in tomorrow and I do not plan on letting it leave unless paid in full.

 

Thoughts?



Posted

I would let them tow it in. Then you have a hostage. They wouldn't get it back till ALL WAS PAID! Not sure what the laws are for your location but in Fl they can dispute the bill. The owner has to pay 50% in kind at the courthouse then they can get their vehicle. At that point it becomes a court issue to get paid. Never been there but friends tell me it is a royal pain in the arse!

Posted

I refuse to take any kind of payments anymore. If you approved the work, you can come up with the money to pay for it. If we do the work, who do I say doesn't get paid since the work wasn't paid for when the vehicle left the shop? Been burned too may times because I am a "nice" guy.

  • Like 1
Posted

I am in the same boat. ran reports last week...I have over 7 grand on the books. tax man asked me why we dont write it off. I told him I leave it there to remind me to never allow charges!!

Posted

You know, this is an excellent topic I would like to see discussed.

 

KNOW YOUR CUSTOMER. This is phrase used by the banks, and if you are thinking about taking payments, it would behoove you to know your customer.

 

I have taken payments in the past, and have been burned, but in all honesty after careful review, my instinct had warned me I would get burned.

 

I also have taken payments from people than needed their cars for work, and they paid on time without a glitch.

 

As a rule of thumb, I had taken half the amount for the job and the rest in payments.

Posted

This is a very slippery slope to go down. As a business owner, you want to try and help your customers and also not lose out on the job. The problem is not everyone is ethical and even though you are going out of your way to help this individual, they may not see it in this light. We have only put work on credit one time here at our shop and it did work out in the end but would not do it again if possible.

Posted

We said we would help a high school friend by accepting payments for a HG on their envoy. It was going to be 1200 and they would put 800 down. Turned out they needed an engine and out of 3100 they put 500 down... I asked the husband 4-5 times to thing of what he can pay and let me know and I also needed at least half down. The wife ended up just showing up with no money and no idea what I had told her husband... Like a sucker I have her the car.

 

The car recently stopped on her and she called me complaint that with her "new engine" it should never break down and wanted to know what i was going to do about it... Being an envoy and being that EVERY time I see the car it's fuel light is on. Can you say GM fuel pump? Anyway it's getting towed in tomorrow and I do not plan on letting it leave unless paid in full.

 

Thoughts?

Grab it and hold on to it. In this state I can get a mechanics lien.

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
  • Available Subscriptions

  • Have you checked out Joe's Latest 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.
  • Similar Topics

    • By nptrb
      One change that has been causing waves is the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and itsBeneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting requirements. 
      On March 25, 2025, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals is scheduled to hear oral arguments in a case challenging the CTA. This legal battle has the potential to change the future of BOI reporting.
      I’m sharing this blog post because it’s essential for you, an auto repair shop owner, to understand what this case means for your business.
       
      Understanding the CTA and BOI Reporting 
      The CTA, enacted as part of the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2020, mandates that certain “reporting companies” file BOI reports with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). For many auto repair shops, this means reporting information about the “beneficial owners,” defined as the people in your business who: 
      Exercise “substantial control” over the company. This can include your staff who serve as senior management or direct your business’s financial decisions. Own or control at least 25% of the ownership interests of your business. The BOI report requires the following information for each beneficial owner:
      Full legal name Date of birth Current residential address A unique identifying number from an acceptable identification document (e.g., driver’s license, passport) and an image of that document.   Also, if your auto repair shop was created on or after January 1, 2024, you must also report information about the “company applicants,” which are the individuals who filed the documents to create the company.
      The CTA has faced criticism regarding its scope and the burden it places on small businesses.
      If you’re an auto repair shop owner who is concerned about the reporting requirements, you’ll want to stay tuned for the results of the upcoming court case!
       
      The March Court Case 
      The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals’ hearing is a pivotal moment in the CTA’s history. The challenge centers on the argument that the CTA exceeds Congress’s constitutional authority, specifically under the Commerce Clause and Necessary and Proper Clause. 
      Opponents argue that the broad definition of “reporting company” and the extensive data collection intrude on state-level business formation and legal regulations.
      If the court rules against the government, the BOI reporting regulations will be drastically altered. Here’s a look at what may come:
      A complete repeal of the CTA. Amendments to the CTA to narrow its scope or simplify reporting. A stay or injunction on the enforcement of the CTA within the Fifth Circuit’s jurisdiction (Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi), with potential ripple effects nationwide.  
      What This Means for YOU as an Auto Repair Shop Owner 
      While the outcome of the upcoming Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals hearing is uncertain, it’s absolutely critical for you, as an auto repair shop owner, to stay informed and prepared. 
      The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and its Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting requirements are still in effect, so you need to maintain compliance until the court reaches a decision. 
      Continue to abide by the current reporting guidelines so you do not experience potential penalties.
      It’s also wise to actively monitor news and legal developments related to this CTA challenge. 
      If changes are put into motion, you may need to adjust your reporting practices to align with any new regulations or guidelines. 
    • By Joe Marconi
      Many auto repair shops are adding a fee to the final invoice for customers using credit cards. I get it, but don't agree.
      For me it's simple. First, do your best to negotiate the best deal from your credit card provider service.  Next, take that fee and add it to your cost of doing business.  To me, I consider this fee an expenses, just like all other expenses: office supplies, utility bill, insurance, taxes, training, travel expenses, maintenance, etc. etc. 
      From your total average monthly expenses, you will be able to determine your breakeven, and from there, set your net profit goal. In other words, forget about the charging the customer a fee, just build into your overall prices. You will accomplish the same thing, and not bring attention to the customer that small fee that may be a big deal. 
    • By Joe Marconi
      Over the weekend I met a 67 year old shop owner who has been in business for 41 years, and still involved in the day to day operations. He added that he has done nothing to plan for his future and his exit. 
      Life can throw us a curve ball at any age, are your properly prepared.
      I know it sounds a little crazy, but the right time to get you business ready to sell, is when you first go into business.
      What are you doing to prepare for your exit, sale or if life throws you a curve ball?
       
       
    • By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care, NAPA TRACS and Automotive Management Network "Enrollment is getting people to do what it is you want them to do, but for their reasons." Learn how to build a strong, motivated team in the service aftermarket industry by focusing on employee engagement and personal responsibility. This discussion covers key topics such as understanding what drives your employees, hiring for character, and using empathy to enhance workplace dynamics. You'll also explore the want-problem-solution framework and how adapting to different communication styles can boost productivity and job satisfaction. Gain valuable insights on motivating employees by aligning their personal goals with company success. Krystal Zellmer, VP at Klemmer Leadership and Character Development. Krystal’s previous episodes HERE Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Welcome Krystal Zellmer (00:00:00) The Concept of Enrollment (00:02:36) Sales and Enrollment Connection (00:03:36) Leadership by Example (00:05:30) Understanding Company Culture (00:06:49) Hiring as a Sale (00:07:24) Personal Responsibility in Leadership (00:09:22) Dealing with Mistakes (00:10:43) Passion for the Industry (00:11:54) The Importance of Enrollment (00:12:20) What's in it for Them? (00:13:02) Fragmented Changes in Business (00:14:30) Improving Enrollment Skills (00:19:14 Understanding Wants (00:20:14) Identifying Problems (00:21:11) Ownership and Responsibility (00:22:30) Enrolling Team Members (00:23:15) Finding Individual 'Why' (00:25:01) Hiring for Character (00:27:45) Competence vs. Character (00:28:24) Understanding Team Dynamics (00:30:19)s. Building Relationships (00:30:57) Empathy vs. Sympathy (00:34:41) Awareness of Personal Challenges (00:38:22) Effective Communication Styles (00:40:04) The Importance of Shifting Communication (00:41:51) Utilizing DISC for Better Relationships (00:42:19) Personal Responsibility in Communication (00:42:54) Breaking Down Communication Barriers (00:44:43)
      Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care, NAPA TRACS and Automotive Management Network Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Get ready to grow your business with the Automotive Management Network: Find on the Web at http://AftermarketManagementNetwork.com for information that can help you move your business ahead and for the free and informative http://LaborRateTracker.com Connect with the Podcast: -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto -Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ -Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ -Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz -Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ -Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider -All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books -Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom -Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections 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
    • By Changing The Industry
      Fixing a $20K Engine Mistake


  • Our Sponsors

×
×
  • Create New...