“I Have No Idea How to Repair a Vehicle”: Elias Akiki on Doing It Right

“I have no idea how to repair a vehicle.” It is not what you expect from one of the most respected collision repair operators in the Northeast. But it is exactly how Elias Akiki explains real leadership in this industry.

Elias took over his family’s shop at 19. He built Akiki Auto Body into a multifaceted operation rooted in people, culture, and doing things the right way. In this episode, he explains why his job is not to decide how a car gets repaired. His job is to follow the manufacturer’s directions to the letter. And he is blunt about why so many shops and insurers still refuse to do the same.

Daniel and Elias cover a lot of ground. How to build a low-turnover team in an industry that struggles to keep people. Why Elias says making money is not the most important thing. The painful decision to “call his own baby ugly” and rebuild the business the right way. His take on OEM certifications, ADAS, and being the last true advocate for the customer.

Own a shop, manage one, or just getting started? This conversation will challenge how you think about safe and proper repairs, culture, and leaving the trade better than you found it.

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The BodyShop Leaders Podcast is powered by BodyShop Marketing, the agency helping collision industry leaders grow smarter and lead stronger.