RepairPal Certified Shop, Stormstrike, led by William Vaughn, is a trusted name in Lapel, IN, built on a foundation of integrity, community involvement, and a dedication to truly solving automotive problems. Inspired by the support of his local community, William has grown Stormstrike into a shop that prioritizes fair and honest repairs, focusing on lasting solutions rather than quick fixes. By saving customers time, money, and frustration, Stormstrike has become a go-to destination for drivers seeking dependable and thorough automotive care.
1. How did you get into the automotive industry?
“The community actually started my industry, and it just grew from there.”
William’s journey into the automotive repair business began with the encouragement and support of his community. What started as a small operation has grown into a respected shop, thanks to the trust and relationships he has built with his customers. Stormstrike is a true testament to the power of community-driven success.
2. What do you want your shop to be known for?
“Fair and honest repairs. Not the repair that will just ‘fix the problem’ but the repair that actually fixes the problem.”
At Stormstrike, William and his team focus on delivering solutions that address the root cause of a vehicle’s issues, not just temporary fixes. This commitment to thorough and honest repairs ensures customers leave satisfied and confident that their vehicles are safe and reliable.
3. How do you differentiate your shop from other repair facilities?
“Sometimes I get a customer that says several other shops said the transmission was bad and needed to be replaced—only for me to find out it was battery terminals, or it needed a fluid change. I have many more instances, but stories like this one save my customers thousands, creating a customer for life. It’s not about the immediate dollar; it’s about the future integrity of the relationship built.”
William’s approach to automotive repair is rooted in integrity and customer care. By taking the time to accurately diagnose problems and avoid unnecessary repairs, Stormstrike saves customers money and builds lasting trust. This dedication to doing what’s right sets the shop apart from others in the industry.
4. Is your shop involved in the local community or auto community?
“I am very involved with the community.”
Community involvement is at the heart of Stormstrike’s mission. William is passionate about giving back and staying connected to the people who have supported his business from the beginning. Whether through local events or personalized care, Stormstrike is an integral part of the Lapel community.
5. What strategies have you found most effective for retaining customers?
“Being honest, true, and there—like a family member.”
For William, customer retention comes down to building relationships based on trust and authenticity. He and his team treat every customer like family, ensuring they feel heard, respected, and cared for at every step of the repair process.
6. What tools or software do you rely on to manage your shop’s operations efficiently?
“I use Shopmonkey.”
To keep operations running smoothly and provide top-notch service, Stormstrike relies on Shopmonkey for shop management. This tool allows William’s team to stay organized and maintain clear communication with customers, ensuring every job is completed efficiently and effectively.
7. Can you share a success story where your shop went above and beyond for a customer?
“Recently, a customer suspected a blown engine through another shop’s diagnosis. We found it to be a bad turbo and a clogged secondary catalytic converter due to a recent wreck he was in. This saved him about $14,000, as the original shop wanted $17,700.”
This story is just one example of how Stormstrike goes above and beyond to save customers from unnecessary expenses. By conducting thorough diagnostics and leveraging their expertise, William and his team provide solutions that save money while restoring confidence in their vehicles.
8. In what ways do you encourage feedback from employees on improving customer satisfaction and workplace morale?
“I openly allow for conversation with immunity from losing their position. I encourage everyone to hold me accountable.”
William fosters a culture of transparency and accountability at Stormstrike. By creating a safe space for open dialogue, he ensures that his team feels comfortable sharing feedback and ideas, leading to continuous improvement in both customer service and workplace morale.
9. What is your proudest achievement as an auto shop owner?
“This survey is an achievement, as it means I am being recognized beyond my community.”
For William, the recognition of Stormstrike as a trusted and respected business is a proud milestone. It reflects the hard work and dedication he has poured into creating a shop that stands out not just locally, but beyond the Lapel community.
10. What advice would you give to someone just starting out in the auto repair business?
“Trust is everything. Don’t abuse it.”
William’s advice to newcomers in the automotive industry is simple yet powerful: prioritize trust. Building honest, transparent relationships with customers is the key to long-term success and a thriving business.
11. Where do you see the automotive industry heading in the next five years, particularly concerning the ability to retain customers?
“It’s going to be a warzone because the newer vehicles are getting locked down with software despite the right to repair act, which means older vehicles will remain in service and parts will become less and less available.”
William foresees significant challenges in the automotive industry as newer vehicles become more complex and restricted by software limitations. He predicts that repair shops like Stormstrike, which focus on expertise and adaptability, will be essential in maintaining older vehicles and navigating the industry’s evolving landscape.
At Stormstrike, William Vaughn and his team deliver ASE-certified expertise with a commitment to fairness, honesty, and community involvement. From saving customers thousands on unnecessary repairs to providing comprehensive diagnostics and service, RepairPal Certified Shop Stormstrike in Lapel, IN, is a trusted partner for drivers seeking reliable, transparent automotive care.
