RR 169: Seth Thorson from Eurotech Auto Repair
Seth Thorson has specialized in the service of European automobiles since 1999, 
first in Michigan and now at his current location in New Brighton, MN.
Education.
Seth was educated at a UTI in Chicago where he was at the top of his class. He then went to BMW Step to finish the master’s program. Thorson was hired in at a BMW dealership in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. From there he moved to an independent shop in Waterford Michigan and learned VW Audi. Seth’s passion remained with BMW and he was offered a chance to buy an existing shop in New Brighton, Minnesota near where he grew up.
Seth believes in specialization.
Eurotech (the existing shop Seth now owns) specializes in BMW, Mercedes and Audi cars. He is a firm believer in using factory tools to ensure proper repairs and coding. His team of highly trained and certified technicians are able to diagnose today’s complex vehicle systems! His second location, Green Garage, works on all makes and models.
Training Company.
Seth also owns and runs a BMW tech support company called LMV Bavarian that provides support and programming to a growing network of over 200 shops via remote diagnostics. He also teaches national seminars on BMW diagnostics. Seth has also partnered with SSF auto parts in their unique ‘hands-on’ training program.
Involved.
Thorson belongs to AASP in MN, BIMRS as well as NASTEF. He is also a member of Cecil Bullards (Institute for Automotive Business Excellence) 20 group. He believes idea sharing and networking with other shop owners has helped grow his business.
When he is not working, you will often find him hunting with his dog or on a snowmobile race track.
Powerful points discussed in this interview:
- Warranty and why he self-insures.
- The minimum hours, he feels, techs need to log in training.
- He prefers to train his A techs and that has been his method of late.
- Seth shares what the shop of the future is going to look like and he explains how he will grow his business.
- Hear about a parts consignment beta test program he is participating in with BMW.
- He also has a secret on how he accomplishes everything on his plate
In his spare time Seth enjoys snowmobile racing, American history and playing various sports.
LMV Bavarian BMW Support/Training Website
| Years in industry: | 15 |
| Years in business ownership: | 6 |
| Locations: | 2 |
| Number of technicians: | 6 |
| Number of Lifts: | 10 |
| Number of Bays: | 10 |
| Days Open: | Mon-Fri |
| Annual estimated volume (All Businesses): | $2.5MM |
| Aftermarket Associations: | AASP – ASA |
| ASE: | Master plus L1 |
| ASE Blue Seal Certified: | Yes |
| Trainer/Coach: | Cecil Bullard |
| Community & Philanthropy: | Rotary – YMCA Partners – Simpson Homeless Shelfter |
| Supplier Advisory Council: | CRP |
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This episode is brought to you by Federal-Mogul Motorparts and Garage Gurus.
With brands like Moog, Felpro, Wagner Brake, Champion, Sealed Power, FP Diesel and more, they’re the parts techs trust. For serious technical training and support – online, onsite and on-demand – Garage Gurus is everything you need to know. Find out more at fmmotorparts.com and fmgaragegurus.com
About the author, Carm Capriotto, AAP
Carm is the founder and host of the Remarkable Results Radio Podcast and the pioneer of automotive aftermarket podcasts. Carm calls on his years of experience in the aftermarket to bring engaging stories from his guests.
Listen to raw, unfiltered, honest, and sincere stories that include insights, trends, best practices, and expertise. Each interview brings an opportunity to learn one new thing through the stories of personal achievement. Many podcast guests tell their story of transformation from working in their business to working on it.
As host of over 1,000 episodes, Carm uses his enthusiasm and passion for the aftermarket especially the service sector to take his listeners on a journey showcasing successful service professionals’ paths to Remarkable Results. He also enjoys interviews with aftermarket industry thought leaders who bring their industry perspectives to his listener.
Follow the podcast on your favorite podcast listening app and always listen to learn just one thing!