Today we’d like to introduce you to Joel Marrero.
Joel, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
For me, cars have always been more than a job—they’re a passion. I got my start at a small family dealership in Boston, where I learned the value of hard work and keeping vehicles running right. After 25+ years in the business, I moved south with my family and opened this shop with one simple goal: be honest, use quality parts, and treat every car like it’s my own. My best friend of 20 years from Boston, who also has over 25+ years of experience, moved here last year to run the business alongside me. When we’re not in the garage, we’re with our families, who keep us grounded and remind us of what matters the most. Our mission is simple: fix cars, earn trust, and help neighbors.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Running a small business is incredibly rewarding, but it comes with real challenges. One of the biggest is managing everything at once—operations, customer service, marketing, finances—often without the resources or staff that larger companies rely on; although I do have some pretty awesome friends that have helped along the way. Cash flow can be unpredictable when running small businesses, so every decision has to be thoughtful and strategic. And because the business is personal, setbacks hit harder. But those same challenges push you to be adaptable, creative, and deeply connected to your customers, which is ultimately what keeps the business strong.
We’ve been impressed with GTV Automotive, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
GTV Automotive is a 5-star, locally owned, community‑driven auto repair shop built on honesty, expertise, and genuine care for the people we serve. We specialize in full‑service automotive repair and maintenance, from routine oil changes and brake work to diagnostics and more complex repairs. We also buy and sell used vehicles for affordable prices. What we’re known for—above anything else—is treating customers like family and making sure every vehicle that leaves our shop is safe, reliable, and ready for the road.
What sets us apart is the combination of skilled, experienced technicians and a customer experience that feels personal, transparent, and welcoming. We take the time to explain repairs in a way people can understand, we never upsell unnecessary work, and we stand behind everything we do. That trust is the foundation of our brand.
Brand‑wise, we’re most proud of the reputation we’ve built in our community. People come to us because they know we’re honest, consistent, and committed to doing the job right the first time. Our goal is to make car care less stressful and more approachable, and we work hard every day to deliver on that promise.
For readers who may not know us yet: GTV Automotive offers dependable, high‑quality automotive services and sales with a focus on integrity and customer comfort. Whether it’s routine maintenance or a major repair, we’re here to help drivers feel confident in their vehicles and supported by a team that truly cares.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
When you run a small business, risk is part of the everyday landscape. I don’t think of myself as a thrill‑seeker, but I do believe in taking thoughtful, intentional risks when they align with our values and long‑term vision. For GTV Automotive, the biggest risks have been the ones that required trust—trusting our instincts, trusting our community, and trusting that doing things the right way would pay off.
One major risk was deciding to build a brand centered on transparency and honesty in an industry where people often expect the opposite. It meant slowing down to explain repairs and prioritizing relationships over quick transactions. That approach takes time to build momentum, and in the early days it felt like a gamble. But it’s also the reason our customers keep coming back and recommending us to others.
I’ve learned that risk doesn’t always look like a dramatic leap. Sometimes it’s choosing to invest in better equipment before you feel “ready,” hiring help when the budget is tight, or standing firm in your values even when it would be easier not to. For me, risk is about believing in the kind of business you want to build and being willing to take steps toward it—even when the outcome isn’t guaranteed.
Pricing:
- Free multi-point inspections
- 20% off for new customers on any service
- $49.95 Oil Changes (based on oil type & capacity. we’ll always confirm cost before service)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://gtvautomotive.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gtvautomotive?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61580131387173#
Image Credits
Jason Rodriguez @ctxsmedia
