We recently had the chance to connect with Farhat Elayyan and have shared our conversation below.
Farhat, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
One of the biggest misunderstandings about my businesses—whether it’s towing, auto repair, collision, or ADAS calibration—is that people think it’s just about fixing cars or moving vehicles from point A to point B. But what we really do is provide peace of mind. We’re problem solvers, we’re first responders in many ways, and we’re trusted with people’s safety, time, and money.
Another thing that’s misunderstood is how much we invest behind the scenes—in training, equipment, certifications, customer service systems, and even technology. I’m constantly reinvesting into my shops, my fleet, and my team to stay ahead, not just keep up. People see a tow truck or a repair bay, but they don’t see the 16-hour days, the SBA paperwork, the late-night insurance calls, the automated systems I’m building, or the Google Ads campaigns I personally optimize to make sure the phone rings.
To some, it might just be “another auto shop.” But to me, it’s a long-standing business built on reputation, efficiency, and trust. And that part is often overlooked.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Frankie Elayyan, and I’m the owner and operator of several automotive businesses based in Houston, Texas—Advance Automotive, Defender Towing, and a growing network of specialized services including ADAS calibration, diagnostics, and performance upgrades. I’ve been in this industry for over 15 years, and what started as a small repair operation has grown into a multi-faceted brand built on precision, efficiency, and trust.
What makes my businesses unique is the level of care and customization we offer. From towing exotic vehicles with high-end equipment to investing in the latest ADAS systems and calibration technology, I’ve built my shops to handle everything from routine repairs to complex, high-stakes jobs. We don’t cut corners—we build systems, automate processes, and invest in top-tier tools and people.
Right now, I’m focused on scaling the business intelligently. That means implementing better automation, streamlining customer experiences, and expanding into new locations. I’m also working on building a Formula 1-inspired customer lounge—because I want every touchpoint of the brand to feel elevated and different from your typical shop.
At the end of the day, I treat every vehicle and customer like they’re part of the family, and that’s not just talk—it’s how I’ve built a reputation that lasts.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
One moment that really shaped how I see the world was losing my brother unexpectedly earlier this year. It hit me harder than I can explain—he wasn’t just my brother, he was a part of my daily life, my motivation, and my support system. When someone that close to you is gone in an instant, it forces you to see life completely differently.
It made me realize how fragile time is and how quickly things can change. It pushed me to re-evaluate everything—how I spend my time, who I give my energy to, and what really matters at the end of the day. I’ve always been driven, always been focused on business and success, but that moment reminded me that none of it means anything if you don’t have your people, if you’re not present, or if you’re not living with purpose.
Since then, I’ve tried to lead with more intention. I work hard, but I also make time for what matters—family, memories, honoring my brother’s legacy, and building something that lasts beyond money or recognition. That moment changed my perspective forever.
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
One of the deepest wounds in my life has been losing my brother. It wasn’t just a personal loss—it was like losing a part of myself. He was someone I saw every day, someone who knew me better than most, and when he passed, it shook everything. There’s no manual for healing from something like that. It changes you.
Another wound has come from the pressure of carrying so much on my own—being the one people count on, running multiple businesses, making sure everyone gets paid, the phones keep ringing, and the family is okay. That weight builds over time, and it leaves its mark. You start to forget what it feels like to breathe without stress.
As for healing—I’m still working on it. But what’s helped is staying in motion. Pouring my energy into building something meaningful. Honoring my brother by living with more purpose, more awareness. I’ve also started letting myself slow down when I need to, letting people in a little more, and realizing I don’t have to carry everything alone.
Some wounds never fully close—but you learn to live with them, and in my case, to use them as fuel.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I’m committed to building a business legacy that outlives me—something that stands on integrity, precision, and impact. Not just a successful shop or towing company, but a brand people trust, respect, and remember. I’ve spent over 15 years building it from the ground up, and I’m still just getting started.
What I’m working toward now is complete automation and efficiency across all operations—towing, repair, diagnostics, and calibration. I want to create a system that runs with or without me, where every process is dialed in, and my team has the tools to succeed without chaos. It’s not just about growth; it’s about creating freedom—freedom for myself, for my family, and eventually, to pass something down that means something.
No matter how long it takes, I’m committed to perfecting that structure, scaling the right way, and leaving behind a blueprint for others in my circle—especially my family—to follow and build on. That’s the long game.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people say I was solid—loyal, driven, and real. That I showed up when it mattered, that I didn’t fold under pressure, and that I took care of the people I loved without needing to be asked. I want them to remember me as someone who built something from nothing, who made moves not just for himself but to elevate others along the way.
I hope they talk about the hustle, the long nights, the risks I took, and how I never waited for someone else to hand me a shot—I created my own lane. But more than that, I want them to say I had a heart. That I never forgot where I came from, that I kept my brother’s name alive, and that I left behind more than money—I left behind purpose.
That I turned pain into motivation. That I didn’t just chase success—I chased meaning.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://advanceautocar.com/
