ENEOS On the Road: RPM Garage
Building Business Through Off-Road Passion and Everyday Reliability
As the automotive aftermarket continues to evolve, shops that combine technical expertise with a clear sense of identity are the ones that thrive. For this stop on ENEOS On the Road, we visited RPM Garage in Monrovia, California, where owner Steve Lam has built a business that’s as much about community and innovation as it is about performance and repair.
Originally launched in 2009 as a general service shop, RPM has steadily grown by embracing the off-road and overlanding market — while still maintaining a strong foundation in core automotive repair. Now, after 16 years in business and three years at their current location, RPM Garage has become a respected name in Southern California’s competitive shop landscape.
Building Business Through Off-Road Passion and Everyday Reliability
As the automotive aftermarket continues to evolve, shops that combine technical expertise with a clear sense of identity are the ones that thrive. For this stop on ENEOS On the Road, we visited RPM Garage in Monrovia, California, where owner Steve Lam has built a business that’s as much about community and innovation as it is about performance and repair.
Originally launched in 2009 as a general service shop, RPM has steadily grown by embracing the off-road and overlanding market — while still maintaining a strong foundation in core automotive repair. Now, after 16 years in business and three years at their current location, RPM Garage has become a respected name in Southern California’s competitive shop landscape.
🧰 Key Business Takeaways for ENEOS Dealers and Industry Partners:
- Diverse Revenue Streams: RPM balances general repair services with specialty off-road builds, including suspension systems, camper setups, wheels and tires, and electrical work. This hybrid approach has helped the shop remain resilient through economic shifts.
- OEM and Aftermarket Experience: Steve’s background in OEM product planning at Nissan and engineering at Stillen laid the groundwork for RPM’s blend of performance and practicality. It also led to the creation of an in-house wheel brand, designed for off-road function and ease of maintenance — showing how brand diversification can be a growth lever for shops.
- Market Responsiveness: Post-COVID, RPM saw a surge in demand for vehicle upgrades as outdoor recreation spiked and international travel paused. Lead times extended to 60 days, and off-road work became a cornerstone of their business. Staying agile and recognizing emerging trends gave them a clear edge.
- Community Investment: Beyond the shop floor, Steve actively supports local youth programs, including a solar car race team — reinforcing the value of long-term, community-based brand building.
- OEM and Aftermarket Experience: Steve’s background in OEM product planning at Nissan and engineering at Stillen laid the groundwork for RPM’s blend of performance and practicality. It also led to the creation of an in-house wheel brand, designed for off-road function and ease of maintenance — showing how brand diversification can be a growth lever for shops.
🧰 Key Business Takeaways for ENEOS Dealers and Industry Partners:
- Diverse Revenue Streams: RPM balances general repair services with specialty off-road builds, including suspension systems, camper setups, wheels and tires, and electrical work. This hybrid approach has helped the shop remain resilient through economic shifts.
- OEM and Aftermarket Experience: Steve’s background in OEM product planning at Nissan and engineering at Stillen laid the groundwork for RPM’s blend of performance and practicality. It also led to the creation of an in-house wheel brand, designed for off-road function and ease of maintenance — showing how brand diversification can be a growth lever for shops.
- Market Responsiveness: Post-COVID, RPM saw a surge in demand for vehicle upgrades as outdoor recreation spiked and international travel paused. Lead times extended to 60 days, and off-road work became a cornerstone of their business. Staying agile and recognizing emerging trends gave them a clear edge.
- Community Investment: Beyond the shop floor, Steve actively supports local youth programs, including a solar car race team — reinforcing the value of long-term, community-based brand building.
- OEM and Aftermarket Experience: Steve’s background in OEM product planning at Nissan and engineering at Stillen laid the groundwork for RPM’s blend of performance and practicality. It also led to the creation of an in-house wheel brand, designed for off-road function and ease of maintenance — showing how brand diversification can be a growth lever for shops.
ENEOS Ambassador Faruk Kugay toured the shop and spoke with Steve about how RPM has adapted, expanded, and found success by staying true to its customer base — offering honest service, clean work, and a highly personalized experience. For ENEOS dealers, RPM is a strong example of how passion, technical know-how, and a well-defined niche can fuel long-term growth.
ENEOS is proud to partner with shops like RPM Garage — businesses that don’t just sell a service, but build relationships and move the industry forward.
🎥 Watch the full video to see how RPM Garage is leading with innovation, integrity, and a deep understanding of its market.
ENEOS is proud to partner with shops like RPM Garage — businesses that don’t just sell a service, but build relationships and move the industry forward.
🎥 Watch the full video to see how RPM Garage is leading with innovation, integrity, and a deep understanding of its market.