Why Retention Starts in the Driveway: Lessons from CEO, Amit Chandarana

Zero in on why retention is slipping and how mobile service can help fix it.

On a recent episode of the Retention Roadmap podcast, Curbee CEO Amit Chandarana joined host Bill Springer for a deep dive into the future of mobile service. With more than 30,000 at-home appointments completed and partnerships with OEMs like Stellantis, Amit brought more than just data. He laid out a clear plan for how dealerships can turn mobile service into a powerful tool for retention and revenue.

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The Me economy is here, and dealerships need to adapt

Consumers today make decisions based on convenience. As Amit explained:

“If it passes the me test, it has a chance. And let’s be honest: most customers wouldn’t wait an hour and a half in their own service drive.”

Mobile service doesn't just meet customer expectations. It exceeds them. That kind of experience builds long-term loyalty.

Recalls are the trojan horse

There are 70 million open recalls on the road right now. Around 25 percent are software updates or inspections, which are ideal for mobile service.

“We worked with one OEM to reach customers who hadn’t been in a dealership in 18 months,” Amit said.

“When offered mobile service, 92% received service. Not asked for it — received it.”

This is not a theory. It is a clear example of retention at work.

ROI that writes its own business case

Mobile service is not just a convenience feature. It is a smart investment.

• Dealers reach 5 to 7 appointments per day within the first 45 days
• 70 percent of those appointments include accepted upsells
• Most programs cover their startup cost in under two months

Instead of spending more than $200,000 to build a new service bay, dealers can launch mobile service with $12,000 to $15,000 and have a van on the road in about 30 days.

“It’s the lowest-risk way to unlock capacity, serve more customers, and actually get the data you need to improve operations.”

From fleet to fixed ops: a platform built for expansion

Curbee’s M.A.R.S. platform helps dealers:

• Define serviceable areas with precision geo-mapping
• Optimize technician routes and reduce windshield time
• Track appointment durations and completion times
• Surface upsell opportunities based on parts data
• Enable real-time communication and payments

It is not just a tool. It is a full operational system designed by people who have done it in the real world.

Advice for dealers still on the fence

“Don’t overthink it. If you wouldn’t wait in your own service drive, your customer probably won’t either.”

Mobile service passes the me test, creates new revenue, and helps re-engage customers lost over the past three to five years. The best part is that you can start small and grow fast without major risk.

If you're ready to bring mobile service to your dealership, start with a partner who has already done the hard work. Reach us at hello@curbee.com.