Auto maintenance is an essential part of vehicle ownership, but not everybody is skilled with a wrench and other auto-related tools. Taking a functioning vehicle to an auto body shop for some repair work is typically the best option for major auto work, but what about for quick fixes or when the car simply won’t drive? No one wants to spend around $100 to have their broken car towed to an auto shop, only to pay even more once they arrive. There has to be an innovative way to get vehicle assistance on the go.
Thankfully, that is just what GoWrench Auto is working on.
According to York Region, GoWrench Auto began as a Canadian startup in 2015, but has since served more than 4,000 new vehicle owners across 45 cities in Canada. With its innovative approach to the auto repair industry, this company uses mobile software to request an auto mechanic’s service anywhere — and not just inside a garage.
“We are bringing the trust and transparency that’s been missing in the industry,” said Josh Lombardo-Bottema, owner and CEO of GoWrench.
Lombardo-Bottema got the idea for GoWrench after his Chevy van broke down five years ago in Hamilton. He didn’t have the time to bring his vehicle to an auto shop so asked if the mechanic could come to him. Lombardo-Bottema remembered the mechanic laughing at his request and saying, “No, I don’t make house calls, buddy.”
Auto damage can strike anyone at any time. There are four main causes of auto body damage: weather fender benders, high speed collisions, and weather-related issues. Additionally, there are six types of windshield breaks, all that would require immediate auto assistance: surface pit, combination break, half moon, bullseye, crack, and star breaks. GoWrench prides itself on offering quality auto repair and service on the go and even at car owner’s home.
The Epoch Times adds that GoWrench’s services are top-of-the-line, not just providing auto service to a person’s door, but experienced, skilled, and professional auto service.
“All [technicians] who work with us are certified and licensed,” added Lombardo-Bottema. We even put them through a rigorous vetting process to ensure that they have the required skills professionally and that their personality is conducive to being a frontline worker — regardless of the conditions.”
GoWrench is showing no signs of slowing down, either. According to BetaKit, the company has already raised $525,000 for its mobile automotive maintenance service. The half million-dollar funding will be used to scale up its innovative operations, onboard mechanics, and develop its B2B and consumer-facing platform.
Dr. Tom Corr, president and CEO of Ontario Centres of Excellence noted that GoWrench’s early ability to focus on commercialization and growth will surely help with its brand loyalty and to successfully disrupt the current automotive space.
“GoWrench is shaking up the auto maintenance industry and this raise is a testament to how many people support our vision and crave a change in this space,” Lombardo-Bottema added.
