Interview with Edgar Leon, owner
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: I’ve been in the car repair industry for 25 years. I went to school for three years, straight out of high school, and since then I worked my way up the ranks at various shops in California and Colorado. I found that I had a knack for finding the solutions to the toughest problems and felt a lot of pride in being the “go-to guy,” I was encouraged to get my ASE Master Technician and Advanced Level Certifications. I have always been driven to be the top performer and to keep learning. Eventually, I found that I had hit the top rung on the ladder at my last job. My wife and I decided to take the leap and open our own shop.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: At AutoPros, we are always looking for the best way to solve our customers’ problems. We work to take the stress out of car repairs and maintenance by helping our customers plan ahead, teaching them how to get the most miles out of their car, and by explaining what their car needs in an informative, understandable way. We feel that there is no need to “up-sell” or pressure customers. Cars need repairs and we are here when needed. Our customers can feel the genuine care we have for them and their vehicle. We do whatever it takes to make it right. We keep a welcoming waiting area that is family-friendly, with games and toys for little ones. We even have a baby changing table for the youngest of visitors.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: I love being the hero. I love saving customers money while providing the best, most reliable service possible. Our customers come in need of help and I get to make it all better.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: The stereotypes that surround this business are the biggest challenge. Sadly, some people have dealt with unscrupulous characters and have been cheated, lied to and had their cars mishandled. When a new customer comes in, they often have an emotional wall already in place, concerned that they’ll be taken advantage of like before or like a friend was. It usually doesn’t take long for them to feel the difference. Just seeing a clean space that lacks the usual grime will often give them pause. Of course, if they were referred to us they generally feel at ease from the start. We have the best customers who we generously reward for referrals.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: A lot of people think that they must go to the dealer for maintenance, when in fact we can handle those services and at a fraction of the price. Another is that people often forget to consider warranty. We offer a 24 month, 24,000 mile warranty on all of our services. Should a part fail, we will replace it at no cost to our customer. That provides peace of mind, which our customers really appreciate.
Profile
Business: AutoPros, LLC
Address: 231 Airport Blvd., Unit B
Hours: 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Saturday
Founded: 2013
Contact: 720-216-1522,
Employees: 1
