Dan Ryan Is Featured In Voyageatl!!

March 22, 2019

MEET DAN RYAN OF TEAM RYAN AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE & REPAIR IN BUFORD

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dan Ryan.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Dan. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.

The initial catalyst to starting Team Ryan Automotive Service & Repair was when I realized that I couldn’t change the direction of the ship I was on, so I decided to build my own ship. The ship I’m referring to is the large corporation where I spent 18 years as a technician. While the large corporation model has many benefits, I had aspirations that I realized only ownership could fulfill. There was so much room for a better experience for both technicians and customers. Simply put, I knew the community deserved better and I decided to take matters into my own hands.

After many dinnertime conversations with my wife, we decided to begin the pursuit of opening our own service and repair shop in the spring of 2013. We started by going to Small Business Association classes, then wrote a business plan that enabled us to acquire a loan to start our business. Then we researched suitable areas for our endeavor, found the right property, negotiated and closed on a building, built out that property, acquired the necessary equipment, created a marketing, financial and growth plan, and opened doors in the spring of 2015.

We will cross the threshold of four years in business April of 2019. I am extremely proud of what we have built but I feel like our full potential has still yet to be realized.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?

Starting a business is never a small task. The only easy thing about running a small business like Team Ryan Automotive is that we sleep well at night knowing we have performed to the best of our abilities making honest recommendations to our customers. We keep their safety top of mind while respecting that each has the prerogative to make their own decisions.

One of the largest challenges was the transition I had to make from being a full-time technician to a full-time business owner. This meant that I would need to take on many responsibilities that I wasn’t immediately familiar with. Even with two decades of industry experience, there have been huge challenges as I learn new skills such as service writing, managing people, leadership, managing vendor relationships, customer relations, contract negotiation, and parts procurement to name a few. I faced these challenges head-on by persevering through difficulties, identifying areas for improvement, seeking out training and specific advice from experts. I’ve learned that challenges do not completely go away after four years of business ownership; they just evolve and grow with you and your business. Coming to terms with this has been a challenge in itself. Continuing to experience challenges and obstacles does not equal failure. It is quite the opposite actually. I have learned to be thankful for the hardships in front of me, they are different and usually larger than the previous ones. This means I am growing as a person and we are growing as a business. That sounds like success to me.

Team Ryan Automotive Service & Repair – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?

Our mission as a business is to serve the community by providing honest vehicle care while empowering our customers to make the best decision for their situation. We explain the diagnosis of each vehicle in easy to understand language while showing our customers where the problem is and carefully illustrating our recommendations. Using digital inspections that include actual pictures of their vehicle that can easily be texted or emailed to our customers really help with this transparency. We also frequently take our customers into the shop where their car is on a lift to point out any issues that need attention so that people can see with their own eyes. It is a real-life version of show and tell! Our philosophy of providing exemplary customer service demands that we understand and serve the needs of each individual customer. We empower customers by presenting the vehicle issues in a down-to-earth way allowing for a no-pressure environment in which they can direct us on what they want to be completed. This practical approach keeps our shop focused on what’s most important, the customer.

We are here to be the local experts in quality auto service and repair, whether that is an oil service, vehicle inspections or diagnostics, brake service, engine or transmission replacement and so much more.

It is our personal drive towards social responsibility that motivates us to do our part in protecting the environment and support the community with our skills at a fair price. We take pride in offering an approach to customer service that is based on integrity and trust. While we certainly have the expertise and proven ability to diagnose and repair vehicles, what really sets us apart is how well we take care of the customers in our community. Our business is founded on treating people right and fixing their vehicle right the first time.

I was honored to be recognized in Georgia Trend Magazine’s 40 under 40 in 2018. We have been voted Best of Gwinnett every year we have been in business since 2015. The Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce has recognized us with their Small Business Rising Star Award. Team Ryan Automotive has been featured in both our local Suwanee Magazine and a national trade magazine Ratchet & Wrench. As an alumni of Gwinnett Technical College, I am invested in giving back to the community as a member of the Automotive Program Advisory Board and also a donor to the Scholarship Committee. Through this, I am able to provide real-world information and updates of the industry to the faculty and students. This year I was honored to be featured in their Alumni Scholarship video which highlighted successful graduates.

Auto repair is not usually known as environmentally friendly. We take pride in our environmental practices and have been recognized as Community Crusaders by Gwinnett Clean and Beautiful. Additionally, we are involved with other environmental organizations such as Elachee Nature and Science Center, and the National Parks Conservation Association. Further community involvement includes the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce, North Gwinnett Kiwanis Club and multiple sponsorships of the youth sports programs in our community. Being recognized and able to contribute to our community in all these different ways makes us feel extremely proud.

To achieve growth and maintain stability we stay extremely focused on the customer experience. We serve a diverse community of all age ranges and understand that one communication method does not work for all. Adjusting our communication style to each customer is critical to establishing a true connection with that person. Team Ryan’s success is directly tied to having the right employees. For that reason, we are constantly looking for ways to create a stable and positive environment in which to work. As our business has grown over the last four years, we’ve gained stability through our continued focus towards treating people right. This goes for both customers and employees.

We plan to be a fixture in the community for the next few decades, and each day we work towards this by building long term trust rather than pushing for the short-term gains.

Too many of us grew up only seeing one kind of boss or leader in the media. The lack of representation for other groups reinforced harmful stereotypes and acted as a self-fulfilling prophecy, but would our opinion of what a leader looks like be different if the media did a better job at representing the true diversity of leadership in America?

A true leader is measured by how they treat people. This means all people, no one is above or below another person, we are all simply people. Leadership is about making a positive difference in others and making sure that impact lasts when you are not around. These qualities are not isolated to a single stereotype or education level. In fact, I find the best leaders are those that have the perspective of having nothing and working hard for everything they have earned. We cannot control what the media decides to show or not show us. We can control how it impacts us and how we respond to it. Each and every one of us has the ability to rise above the stereotypes, we just need to make the choice and do the work. Auto repair shops have the stereotype of being dirty, greasy, dishonest, and sometimes even rude or deceitful. Team Ryan Automotive made the choice four years ago to do the work and change the industry one repair at a time.

Where do you see your industry going over the next 5-10 years? Any big shifts, changes, trends, etc?

Automotive technology and design have progressed and changed more in the last ten years than in the last forty years prior to that. I think we will see an even larger advancement in technology over the next ten years. To say vehicles are no longer easy to work on is an understatement. The amount of dedication and training required to be a true professional in this industry is growing exponentially. Those that are dedicated to continued education and training will rise to the top and be masters of this trade. Everyone else will be gradually left behind fixing the cars of yesteryear clinging to a disappearing number of cars they are qualified to repair. Team Ryan Automotive has already invested in over 50 hours of technician classroom training in 2019 with another 21 hours scheduled in the near future. In my humble opinion, the repair shops willing to do this are the repair shops of the future.

Contact Info:

Address: 2959 S. Waterworks Road, Buford GA 30518

Website: https://www.teamryanautomotive.com/

Phone: 678.820.3794

Email: contact@teamryanautomotive.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teamryanauto/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/teamryanauto/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/teamryanauto

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Tire Maintenance 101: Maximize Your Tires' Lifespan

By Dan Ryan • April 4, 2025

Tire Maintenance 101: Maximize Your Tires' Lifespan Your car’s tires play a crucial role in your safety, vehicle performance, and fuel efficiency. Regularly maintaining your tires not only ensures a smoother, safer ride but also saves you money by extending tire life and enhancing fuel economy. Here are practical steps you can take to maximize the lifespan of your tires and improve your overall driving experience. Regular Tire Rotation Consistent tire rotation promotes even tread wear, significantly extending your tires' lifespan. Tires typically wear unevenly due to the weight distribution of your vehicle, with front tires often experiencing faster wear from steering and braking forces. We recommend rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. At Team Ryan Automotive, our skilled technicians efficiently perform tire rotations, ensuring even wear and maximum tire longevity. Wheel Alignment Checks Proper wheel alignment is essential to tire longevity and safe driving. Misaligned wheels cause uneven tire wear, leading to premature tire replacements and reduced vehicle performance. Misalignment can occur from routine driving, potholes, curbs, or regular wear and tear. Common signs include uneven tire wear patterns, vehicle pulling to one side, or an off-center steering wheel when driving straight. Team Ryan Automotive recommends annual alignment checks or immediate inspection if you notice misalignment signs. Our advanced equipment and experienced team ensure precise alignment corrections, prolonging your tire life and ensuring optimal vehicle handling. Proper Tire Inflation Keeping your tires properly inflated is one of the simplest ways to extend their lifespan. Underinflated tires increase wear on tire edges, reduce fuel efficiency, and compromise handling. Overinflated tires can cause uneven wear in the tire’s center, a harsher ride, and reduced grip. Check your tire pressure at least monthly using a reliable gauge, referring to the recommended pressures listed in your owner’s manual or the sticker inside your driver’s door jamb. At Team Ryan Automotive, we ensure your tires maintain proper inflation for optimal performance and extended tire life. Benefits of Preventive Tire Maintenance Preventive tire maintenance offers multiple advantages, including: Enhanced Safety : Maintained tires provide superior traction, braking, and handling, significantly reducing accident risks. Cost Savings : Regular maintenance extends tire life and improves fuel efficiency, saving you money long-term. Better Performance : Proper tire care results in smoother rides, improved handling, and increased driving comfort. Environmental Responsibility : Maximizing tire lifespan reduces waste, helping protect the environment. Schedule Your Tire Maintenance at Team Ryan Automotive Today At Team Ryan Automotive, our commitment is to your safety and driving satisfaction. Our expert technicians provide comprehensive tire maintenance, including rotation, alignment checks, and tire pressure adjustments. Don’t wait until issues arise— schedule your tire maintenance with Team Ryan Automotive today for safer, smoother, and more economical driving. Contact us to book your appointment and discover the benefits of expert tire care.

How to Know When It's Time for New Tires

By Dan Ryan • April 2, 2025

How to Know When It's Time for New Tires Your car’s tires are the critical link between your vehicle and the road, making their condition vital for your safety, performance, and overall comfort. Recognizing when to replace your tires ensures your car handles and brakes effectively, no matter the road or weather conditions. Here are clear indicators that it’s time for new tires and how worn tires impact your driving experience. 1. Low Tread Depth Tire tread provides essential traction and handling by maintaining contact with the road. As tread wears down, your tires lose grip, increasing the risk of accidents. To quickly check your tread depth, use the penny test: insert a penny into your tire tread with Lincoln’s head facing down. If the top of Lincoln’s head is visible, your tread depth is below the safe limit (less than 2/32 inches). At Team Ryan Automotive, we recommend replacing tires once tread reaches 4/32 inches for optimal safety. 2. Sidewall Cracks or Damage Inspect your tire sidewalls regularly for visible cracks, cuts, or bulges. Sidewalls maintain tire shape and protect the internal structure. Exposure to sunlight, heat, and cold can deteriorate rubber over time, causing cracks that increase the risk of blowouts. If sidewall damage is present, professional inspection and tire replacement are necessary to maintain safe driving conditions. 3. Persistent Vibrations While Driving Feeling unusual vibrations or shaking, especially at higher speeds, often indicates tire issues. Unevenly worn or improperly balanced tires cause vibrations, making your drive uncomfortable and causing additional stress on suspension and steering components. If vibrations persist, have your tires professionally inspected and balanced at Team Ryan Automotive. 4. Tire Age Tires age regardless of mileage or visible wear. Rubber compounds naturally degrade, becoming brittle and prone to failure over time. Most tire manufacturers advise replacing tires every six years, even if tread depth appears sufficient. Locate your tire’s age on the sidewall DOT code, which shows the week and year of manufacture. Tires near or beyond the six-year mark should be replaced promptly. Risks of Driving on Worn Tires Driving with worn tires significantly compromises your vehicle’s safety, handling, and efficiency: Reduced traction, particularly on wet or slippery roads, increasing accident risk Increased stopping distances, raising collision danger Uneven wear leading to costly suspension and steering repairs Lower fuel efficiency due to increased engine strain Tire Inspections at Team Ryan Automotive At Team Ryan Automotive, we’re committed to your safety. Our experienced technicians will: Inspect your tires thoroughly for wear, damage, and aging Measure tread depth and identify uneven wear patterns Balance and rotate your tires for optimal performance Recommend ideal replacement tires tailored to your vehicle and driving style Don’t compromise your safety by waiting. Schedule your tire inspection at Team Ryan Automotive today and drive confidently with tires you can trust.

Why Your Car AC Isn't Cooling: Troubleshooting Common Issues

By Dan Ryan • March 31, 2025

7 Ways Preventative Maintenance Extends Your Car's Life As a car owner, you want your vehicle to run smoothly and reliably for as long as possible. The key to achieving this goal is preventative maintenance – a proactive approach to car care that helps prevent costly repairs and extends your vehicle's lifespan. At Team Ryan Automotive, we've seen firsthand how regular maintenance can make a world of difference in a car's performance and longevity. In this post, we'll explore the top 7 benefits of preventative maintenance and how our team can help you keep your car in top shape for years to come. Prevent Costly Repairs One of the most significant benefits of preventative maintenance is its ability to catch small issues before they turn into expensive problems. For example, replacing a worn timing belt on schedule is much more affordable than repairing the engine damage caused by a snapped belt. By addressing minor concerns early, you can save yourself from major repair bills down the road. Enhance Safety on the Road Your car's performance is directly linked to your safety behind the wheel. Regular maintenance ensures that critical components like brakes, tires, and steering are always in optimal condition, reducing the risk of accidents caused by mechanical failures. By prioritizing preventative maintenance, you're not just investing in your car's health – you're investing in your own safety. Optimize Fuel Efficiency A well-maintained vehicle runs more efficiently, helping you get the most out of every tank of gas. Simple services like regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and proper tire inflation can all contribute to better fuel economy, saving you money at the pump. Maximize Your Car's Lifespan Preventative maintenance is the key to helping your car reach its full potential in terms of longevity. By reducing wear and tear on various components, regular care can help your vehicle surpass 200,000 miles or more. This not only saves you the expense of an early replacement but also allows you to enjoy your car's performance for longer. Boost Resale Value If you plan on selling or trading in your vehicle in the future, having a well-documented history of preventative maintenance can significantly increase its resale value. Prospective buyers are more likely to trust and invest in a car that has been consistently cared for over the years. Minimize Unexpected Breakdowns There's never a convenient time for your car to break down. By staying on top of preventative maintenance, you can greatly reduce the chances of finding yourself stranded on the side of the road. Regular battery testing and fluid checks, for example, can help prevent some of the most common causes of unexpected breakdowns. Save Time and Reduce Stress While preventative maintenance does require occasional visits to the auto shop, it's far less disruptive and stressful than dealing with major repairs or emergency breakdowns. By keeping your car reliable through regular care, you can save yourself the headache of last-minute fixes and enjoy more peace of mind on the road. At Team Ryan Automotive, we understand that preventative maintenance is an investment in your car's future. Our expert technicians, transparent service, and personalized maintenance plans make it easy for you to keep your vehicle in top condition for years to come. Whether you need a routine oil change or a comprehensive inspection, we're here to help you get the most out of your car. Don't wait until a problem arises – schedule your preventative maintenance appointment with Team Ryan Automotive today and start enjoying the many benefits of a well-cared-for vehicle. Ready to extend your car's life and enjoy a more reliable ride? Contact Team Ryan Automotive to schedule your preventative maintenance appointment today!