How to Get Your First 100 Roadside Assistance Calls Without Relying on Motor Clubs

How to Get Your First 100 Roadside Assistance Calls Without Relying on Motor Clubs

How to Get Your First 100 Roadside Assistance Calls Without Relying on Motor Clubs

Getting started in the roadside assistance industry is exciting, but many new operators fall into the trap of depending on motor clubs like AAA or Agero to get calls. While motor clubs can provide some initial volume, they pay very little and keep you under their thumb.

If you're serious about building a profitable, independent roadside assistance business, your first 100 direct calls matter. Here's how to get them without relying on motor clubs:

1. Build a Local Online Presence

Most customers needing help start with a quick Google search. If you’re not showing up, you’re missing out.

Start with these basics:

• Google Business Profile: Create or claim your listing. Use keywords like tire change, jump start, car lockout, and your city name.

• Business Website: Keep it simple, fast, and mobile-friendly. Highlight your services, service area, phone number, and "Call Now" buttons.

• Local SEO: Add your business to local directories like Yelp, Bing Places, and Apple Maps. Use consistent NAP (name, address, phone) across all sites.

Pro Tip: Use photos of your service truck, tools, and happy customers. Real images help build trust fast.

2. Use Google Ads (The Right Way)

Google Ads can generate calls today—if done right.

• Target your city + keywords like "roadside assistance near me," "flat tire help," or "car battery jump."

• Use call-only ads during business hours.

• Set a tight radius (10–15 miles) to avoid wasted ad spend.

• Start small—$10 to $30/day can get you calls if you set it up correctly.

If you’re not confident in running ads, consider hiring someone or using a done-for-you marketing provider.

3. Post on Facebook Local Groups

Facebook community and marketplace groups are underused goldmines.

• Join buy/sell/trade and neighborhood groups.

• Post helpful content like "What to do if your car battery dies" or "Fast tire change service in [Your City]."

• Share pics of real jobs and reviews.

• Respond quickly to people asking for help or recommendations.

People trust local recommendations more than big companies.

4. Ask for Reviews After Every Job

Google reviews build credibility and rankings.

After each successful job, ask the customer:

“Would you mind leaving me a quick review? It really helps me grow.”

Make it easy by texting them the Google review link. Aim for 20–30 solid reviews in your first 60 days.

5. Offer Incentives for Referrals

Word of mouth is powerful.

Give customers a $10 gas card or 10% off their next service if they refer a friend who calls you. You could also offer a "partner referral" bonus to:

• Local used car dealers

• Auto repair shops

• Tire shops

• Locksmiths

Let them know you're local, fast, and reliable—and you'll return the favor.

6. Use Business Cards and Flyers Strategically

Don’t just leave business cards anywhere—place them where they matter:

• Inside used car dealerships

• At mechanic shops and oil change places

• Local gas stations and car washes

• Truck stops or rest areas if you help commercial vehicles

Also, have your contact info visible on your vehicle. A clean wrap or magnet with "Tire Changes, Jump Starts, Lockouts – Call [Phone #]" can get you seen by hundreds daily.

7. Network with Other Roadside Providers

Other providers may get more calls than they can handle—or may not cover certain zip codes.

Introduce yourself. Let them know what services you offer and where you operate. Offer to help if they’re backed up. This could turn into regular call-sharing or subcontracting.

8. Answer Every Call – Fast

Speed wins in this business. When people are stuck, they won’t wait long.

If you miss a call, call back within 1 minute. Set up a second phone, auto-text responder, or use a call answering service if needed.

Bonus Tip: Send a text with your ETA and name once you’re dispatched. That little trust-builder makes a huge difference.

Final Thoughts

How to Get Your First 100 Roadside Assistance Calls Without Relying on Motor Clubs Getting your first 100 calls is all about visibility, trust, and speed. You don’t need motor clubs to make it. In fact, building your own direct customer base is how you stay in control and grow profits.

Start small, stay consistent, and treat every call like gold. With the right local presence and hustle, your phone will ring with real paying customers—no club approval required.

Want Help Getting Calls? We specialize in websites, Google Ads, and lead generation for independent roadside assistance businesses. Contact us to start getting calls this week.