What Mistakes Can Destroy a Growing Auto Repair Business?

AJ Nealey is the owner and “Chief Cheerleader” of Nealey Tire & Auto, a rapidly growing multi-location auto repair business in Maryland. A self-taught technician who began his career turning wrenches in a one-bay garage behind his home, AJ built his company through relentless curiosity, hard work, and a passion for serving people. Over time, he shifted from technician to leader and eventually into multi-store ownership; a journey marked by both breakthrough growth and painful lessons. His story highlights how vision, faith, and perseverance can transform a small operation into a purpose-driven organization. In this episode… Growing an auto repair business is never a straight line and the wrong decisions can derail even the strongest momentum. Many shop owners underestimate how quickly expansion can expose weaknesses in leadership, staffing, finances, and operations. So, what are the biggest mistakes shop owners make when scaling, and how can they avoid them? According to AJ Nealey, it starts with understanding the difference between opportunity and danger. In this candid conversation, AJ opens up about the auto repair business mistakes that nearly halted his growth, including buying distressed shops that required more time, money, and emotional energy than expected. He explains the hidden challenges behind reviving broken locations and why shop owners must stay aligned with their values, systems, and operating model before expanding. AJ also shares the mindset shifts that helped him evolve from technician to leader. From learning the business side through RLO Training, to letting go of the tools, to building a team-based culture centered on service and purpose. AJ reveals what truly drives sustainable growth. The episode also explores how his faith shapes the way he leads, mentors employees, and views his business as a platform for service. On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge sits down with AJ Nealey to discuss the realities of scaling an auto repair business, the mistakes that taught him the most, and the vision that continues to move his company forward. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  [01:03] Who is AJ Nealey? [01:34] How AJ entered the auto repair industry as a self-taught technician [06:40] The biggest challenge he faced in buying his first store [08:09] How moonlighting in a one-bay garage became the start of Nealey Tire & Auto [09:01] The turning point: discovering RLO Training and learning business fundamentals [11:20] The long road to opening his first full shop location in 2016 [13:39] What AJ learned about hiring, delegation, and transitioning into leadership [15:53] The expansion mistake he warns shop owners never to repeat [18:10] Why AJ doesn’t regret the struggle and how hardship built resilience [22:18] What motivates him internally and how faith shapes his business [26:30] The mantra AJ lives by as a leader and business owner Resources mentioned in this episode:Gain Traction Podcast on YouTubeGain Traction Podcast WebsiteMike Edge on LinkedInAJ Nealey LinkedInNealey Tire & Auto Quotable Moments:“Don’t buy a dumpster fire.”“You have to go through the valley to appreciate the win.”“It’s not what you get paid for the hour, it’s the value you bring to the hour.”“Customers vote with their wallet.”“We look at our business as a ministry.” Action Steps:Evaluate expansion opportunities carefully: Avoid distressed shops that drain time and capital.Strengthen your leadership skills: Learn to delegate, coach, and develop your team.Align acquisitions with your operating model: Ensure new stores fit your systems and values.Invest in training: Like AJ, consider formal business education to support smarter growth.Build a purpose-driven culture: Lead with service, celebrate wins, and create meaningful employee experiences.