Meet John Gross
Executive Director | Level 5 Diagnostic Technician | 501(c)(3) Non-Profit
"I've spent three and a half decades with grease on my hands. I've seen the 'book times' stretched, the part prices inflated, and honest people walk out of repair shops feeling 'wrenched over.'"
Whether you're a senior on a fixed income or a first-time car buyer, John uses the same data the shops use, but he uses it for you, not against you.
Why I Started a Non-Profit?
I didn't start VerifyMyEstimate.com to build just another app. I started it as a 501(c)(3) non-profit because I believe every driver deserves a Level 5 Diagnostic Technician in their corner.
After decades in the industry, I kept seeing the same thing: regular people getting taken advantage of. A single mom gets quoted $1,800 for brakes when the fair price is $900. A college kid pays $500 for a diagnostic that should cost $150. An elderly couple approves $3,000 in recommended repairs they don't actually need.
It kept me up at night. I knew the labor guides. I knew the fair prices. I knew what was legitimate and what was a ripoff. But the average person didn't have access to the same information the shops do.
I never believed a piece of paper makes the technician. I learned in trade schools, in real bays, and on real cars every day. This project is for people who work with their hands, move fast, and want the truth without the politics.
Our mission is to ensure you never overpay for a repair again.
"We use the same data the shops use - but we use it for you, not against you."- John Gross, Executive Director
35 Years of Experience
Started as a Shop Apprentice
Began learning the trade at a local repair shop
Level 5 Diagnostic Technician
Built advanced diagnostic expertise through hands-on work and trade school training
Shop Manager
Managed a team of 12 technicians at a major dealership
Industry Consultant
Advised shops on fair pricing and customer relations
Founded VerifyMyEstimate
Decided to help consumers fight back against overcharging
What I Stand For
Honesty First
I've seen what happens when shops prioritize profit over people. That's not who I am.
Consumer Protection
Knowledge is power. I give you the knowledge to protect yourself.
Full Transparency
No hidden agendas. No kickbacks from shops. 100% independent.
Build the Network
We can't protect every driver alone. We're building a paid network of Level 5 Diagnostic Technicians and vetted shops to scale the mission.
Become a Paid Estimate Verifier
Earn per case with flexible, remote work. We match you with audits and live second-opinion requests.
- Apply with your experience, specialties, and sample case.
- Complete the training video and calibration checklist.
- Start taking paid audits and live chat sessions.
Join the Vetted Shop Network
Get referrals from customers who want honest work. Shops pledge transparent pricing and support the non-profit mission.
- Pass our transparency review and pricing pledge.
- Maintain verified ratings and customer-first standards.
- Support the non-profit with a 10-15% mission contribution.
Ready to Have an Expert on Your Side?
Upload your estimate and let me show you exactly what that repair should cost.
Verify My Estimate