Quantcast
Jump to content


Recommended Posts

Posted

Are you guys charging your techs for parts they break? In the past we have never made our techs pay for something they broke, the shop did and talked to the tech about what they need to do to prevent this in the future. It's getting old though. 2 weeks ago one young tech back a mirror into a pole so we bought a new mirror. This week, a different tech while removing a fuel tank, didn't discount the fuel lines on top first and ended up dropping the tank too fast and broke the fuel sending unit. On this truck that is a $300+ part that we are now eating on a $500 ticket. I want to tell the tech he is responsible, and will have to pay the shop back for the part. What say you? 

Posted

That would destroy morale at your shop IMO.

Hold the techs responsible with reprimand in private, give them first a verbal write-up and let them know that if it happens a few more times they would be formally written up then possibly terminated.

There are consequences to your actions, even if it is a mistake, but hitting your techs with deductions to their pay should not be one of them.

Damages like this are a cost of doing business unfortunately. Things will sometimes get damaged. Check with your accountant, there might be a tax loss provision you could claim on something like this as well.

  • Like 1
Posted

I agree with bstewart, unfortunate cost of doing business. Everyone makes a mistake occasionally hence erasers on pencils. Most people learn from their mistakes but some do not. If a tech is constantly making mistakes that is a sign of being careless. I would then be worried about the mistakes that go under the radar and are not noticed, sooner or later they will surface. I don’t know if requiring payment for something like this is legal so I would investigate that further if you choose to go that route. Documenting the mistakes, private meetings with the employee with eventual termination for chronic offenders would be my route.

Posted

Thanks guys, that's kind of what I was thinking. More or less that's what we've done in the past.

Posted

Mistakes happen. Small, sub-$200 stuff, I'll eat if it's a once every few months kind of deal. I tell my techs when I hire them - If they damage a customers car, or break something due to their negligence  - first time, it's on me. 2nd time, it's on you. If there's a 3rd time, you won't be here.

Posted

First off, you would need to check with a lawyer to find out if you could even do that.  Second, its a cost of doing business.  Your technicians should not be breaking parts to the point its seriously costing you money.  Stuff happens but when it's consistently happening, there's a training issue at hand.  I have to agree with bstewart, your techs need to be reprimanded.  If they continue to break things, eventually you will have to let them go.  Don't put up with carelessness but also don't jump to conclusions.  Handle the situation with a calm and level headed demeanor.  Protect your business and yourself.

Posted
1 hour ago, ATSAutomotive said:

First off, you would need to check with a lawyer to find out if you could even do that.  Second, its a cost of doing business.  Your technicians should not be breaking parts to the point its seriously costing you money.  Stuff happens but when it's consistently happening, there's a training issue at hand.  I have to agree with bstewart, your techs need to be reprimanded.  If they continue to break things, eventually you will have to let them go.  Don't put up with carelessness but also don't jump to conclusions.  Handle the situation with a calm and level headed demeanor.  Protect your business and yourself.

that's what I've always done. Just wanted to hear from others

  • 1 month later...
Posted

I watched this happen to a fellow tech before I was an owner. We were working at a good year shop. This technician leaned a wheel against the building. The wheel then fell over (on its face) when he turned around. Of course this was an expensive aftermarket wheel. It scratched the finish, and the customer demanded a new wheel. The manager pulled the tech aside to talk with him. I later found out that they made him pay for this wheel (couple hundred dollars) and were docking his paycheck for it. I was furious. The tech was kind of a push over, and didn’t want to make waves so agreed to pay for it. I remember telling him : if we are taking all the risk, then we should be getting all of the reward. It gave me a bad attitude, and I wasn’t even the one taking the hit. As an owner, it is very frustrating watching $ go up in smoke for careless mistakes, but as long as I see some remorse from the technician, I try to shake it off and make money on the next one.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Posted

I agree with pretty much everyone here it’s the cost of doing business but if it’s a daily thing guys need to be let go. Another thing to remember is your techs are the most important part of your business, you start docking guys pay they will find another way to get it back, I.e. charging your customers for things they don’t need and not doing them, just my thoughts here in a shop owner now but never left my flat rate dealership mindset 

  • 2 weeks later...
Posted
On 11/18/2018 at 4:08 PM, OTPAuto said:

Mistakes happen. Small, sub-$200 stuff, I'll eat if it's a once every few months kind of deal. I tell my techs when I hire them - If they damage a customers car, or break something due to their negligence  - first time, it's on me. 2nd time, it's on you. If there's a 3rd time, you won't be here.

I am old school and completely agree you. Once its an accident, twice its carelessness and three times your out.  Now this on major part breakage, something that could have easily been avoided if they were paying attention to the job at hand. On small things a good stern talking to usually gets them in line. We install lots of high dollar aftermarket parts, that usually dont carry a long term warranty. So that has to be factored in the equation.

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
  • Available Subscriptions

  • Have you checked out Joe's Latest Blog?

         0 comments
      It always amazes me when I hear about a technician who quits one repair shop to go work at another shop for less money. I know you have heard of this too, and you’ve probably asked yourself, “Can this be true? And Why?” The answer rests within the culture of the company. More specifically, the boss, manager, or a toxic work environment literally pushed the technician out the door.
      While money and benefits tend to attract people to a company, it won’t keep them there. When a technician begins to look over the fence for greener grass, that is usually a sign that something is wrong within the workplace. It also means that his or her heart is probably already gone. If the issue is not resolved, no amount of money will keep that technician for the long term. The heart is always the first to leave. The last thing that leaves is the technician’s toolbox.
      Shop owners: Focus more on employee retention than acquisition. This is not to say that you should not be constantly recruiting. You should. What it does means is that once you hire someone, your job isn’t over, that’s when it begins. Get to know your technicians. Build strong relationships. Have frequent one-on-ones. Engage in meaningful conversation. Find what truly motivates your technicians. You may be surprised that while money is a motivator, it’s usually not the prime motivator.
      One last thing; the cost of technician turnover can be financially devastating. It also affects shop morale. Do all you can to create a workplace where technicians feel they are respected, recognized, and know that their work contributes to the overall success of the company. This will lead to improved morale and team spirit. Remember, when you see a technician’s toolbox rolling out of the bay on its way to another shop, the heart was most likely gone long before that.
  • Similar Topics

    • By nptrb
      Running an auto repair shop comes with a unique set of challenges, and managing your finances is a big one. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale, understanding cash flow management for auto repair shops is crucial to your long-term success.
      In this post, we’re sharing practical, actionable strategies to help you take control of your shop’s finances and boost your auto repair business profitability—without sacrificing service quality or customer trust.
      What Is Cash Flow and Why Is It Important?
      Cash flow refers to the money moving in and out of your business. 
      For small businesses like yours, positive cash flow ensures that you can pay your team, keep parts in stock, handle operating costs, and still have something left to reinvest in growth.
      When cash flow gets tight, it affects everything—from your ability to take on more jobs to your peace of mind. That’s why improving cash flow in small businesses, especially in the auto repair industry, is one of the smartest moves you can make.
      Common Financial Challenges Auto Repair Shops Face
      Auto repair shops often experience:
      Slow payments from customers or insurance companies High up-front costs for tools, equipment, and parts Seasonal dips in customer volume Discounting services too frequently Recognizing these patterns is the first step toward smarter cash flow management in your business.
      5 Financial Tips to Improve Cash Flow
      Here are some real-world auto repair shop financial tips you can start implementing today:
      Streamline Your Invoicing and Payments
      Make it easy for customers to pay by offering digital invoicing and online payment options. Send invoices quickly, and set up automated reminders. 
      The faster you get paid, the better your cash flow.
      Review Your Pricing Structure
      If your rates haven’t changed in a while, it might be time for a tune-up. 
      Make sure your pricing reflects the value you provide while also supporting your auto repair business’s profitability.
      Manage Inventory and Ordering
      Don’t let cash get stuck on your shelves. Track what parts you actually use and only stock what’s necessary. Consider just-in-time ordering to reduce overhead.
      Reduce Unnecessary Expenses
      Look closely at your subscriptions, software, utilities, and vendor costs. Managing expenses in auto repair shops doesn’t have to mean cutting corners—just being more intentional with your spending.
      Create Consistent Revenue Streams
      Prepaid service packages, maintenance memberships, or seasonal promotions can help bring in predictable income, smoothing out your cash flow during slow periods. 
      With summer coming, now is a great time to offer deals on tune-ups for people who will be traveling!
      Forecasting = Fewer Surprises
      Cash flow forecasting allows you to plan for upcoming expenses and income. This helps you avoid financial surprises and confidently make big decisions—like hiring another tech or investing in new equipment.
      Even small adjustments in how you manage your shop’s finances can have a big impact over time. Staying proactive and strategic helps ensure your shop is profitable, sustainable, and ready to grow.
      Taking control of your finances starts with understanding your numbers and making small, consistent changes. By focusing on cash flow management for auto repair shops and applying smart financial tips tailored to your industry, you’ll be in a much stronger position to weather the ups and downs of your business.
    • By carmcapriotto
      Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-Bound
      Watch Full Video Episode
      In our episode today, we welcome guest Hunt Demarest, CPA ABV.
      Hunt is the host of Business by the Numbers and, as our host Craig O’Neill will tell you… Hunt uses words really well for a numbers man!
      This episode came to be after Craig found himself on a walk and listening to one of Hunts recent episodes, Episode 163 - Where are my customers?  It’s a great episode on getting to the root of what the numbers are actually telling you - and guess what - it involves actually picking up the phone and talking to people!
      Hunt’s episode played right after Craig had listened to an episode on a health/wellness program which spoke on a similar topic… going straight to the source of information!
      Often times we can get caught up in the minutia of details and analysis.
      If we are not careful - it can lead to assumptions and wrong conclusions.
      As Hunt says, “Numbers do not lie, but they do not tell the whole story.”
      Getting the whole story inevitably involves communication - and it isn’t always comfortable for people to pick up a phone to get it.
      While the takeaway for today’s episode is in the title, it expands as you listen to Hunt and Craig explore a range of topics from talking to clients, employees, and even family.
      Today’s WOTD is Gumption
      noun
      the ability to make intelligent decisions especially in everyday matters
      Learn more about Hunt Demarest here: 
      https://paarmelis.com/business-by-the-numbers/
      Look for his book here:  https://a.co/d/hAf0cDF
      Thank You To Our Partners The Institute, AutoFlow, AutoLeap, Shop Dog Marketing, In-Bound:
      The Institute at WeAreTheInstitute.com.  "Stop stressing over your business, you deserve a good night's sleep. The Institute’s coaching helps you achieve success and financial peace.
      AutoFlow at AutoFlow.com. Your partner in technology, Autoflow consolidates your client interactions - before, during and after the visit to a single thread. Learn more at Autoflow.com
      AutoLeap at AutoLeap.com. Are you tired of juggling multiple tools to manage your auto repair shop? Say hello to the streamlined efficiency of AutoLeap, the #1 all-in-one Auto Repair Shop Management Software!
      Shop Dog Marketing at Shop Dog Marketing.com. "Want to see your auto repair shop thrive? Let Shop Dog Marketing be your guide. Our customer-first approach, combined with AI-driven creative content, ensures top rankings.
      In-Bound at CallInBound.com. Cover your communication needs and revolutionize your auto repair business with AI-driven call analytics from InBound.
      Contact Information
      Email Craig O'Neill: [email protected] Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters
      The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/
      Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/
      The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
      The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, and Today's Class Mike Coley and George Arrants from the ASE Education Foundation address the ongoing technician shortage in the automotive industry. They highlight the importance of education, mentoring, and industry involvement in developing career-ready talent. Coley discusses how ASE certification improves retention and productivity, while Arrants emphasizes the value technicians place on a positive shop culture and proper equipment. The episode urges shop owners to actively support schools, nurture entry-level talent, and create environments that promote long-term career development.
      Mike Coley and George Arrants, ASE Education Foundation: https://www.aseeducationfoundation.org/ Show Notes:
      Watch Full Video Episode Technician Shortage Discussion (00:00:00) Always Be Recruiting (00:03:43) Hiring Challenges (00:05:07) Importance of Career Path (00:06:17) Understanding Technician Turnover (00:09:11) Evaluating Technicians (00:14:11) Engaging with Schools (00:15:27) Importance of Brand Recognition (00:16:30) Career Fair Engagement (00:18:41) Understanding Young Workers' Needs (00:22:00) Role of ASE in Education (00:23:42) Aligning Education with Industry Needs (00:26:54) Impact of Accreditation (00:29:03) Elevating Student Expectations (00:33:17) Industry Accountability (00:34:14) Success Stories in Education (00:36:24) Turnover and Technician Shortage (00:38:12) Benefits of ASE Certification (00:38:25)
      Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Today's Class Optimize training with Today's Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today's Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/ Connect with the Podcast: -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto -Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ -Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ -Follow on X: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz -Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ -Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider -All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books -Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom -Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/ Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/ Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/ Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/ The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/ The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/ Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • By stevefry
      I have a client looking to sell their Auto Body Shop in Monteagle TN called Lakeside Collision. He is asking $1,500,000 and the property did a little over $1,200,000 last year. Profitable business with lots of equipment and inventory, newer paint booth and includes 2 lots and 2 buildings with 8 bay doors.
      Also have another client looking for an Auto Body business to purchase in Davidson County (Nashville) TN. Looking for a shop with the business and the real estate. 
    • By Joe Marconi
      Over the weekend I met a 67 year old shop owner who has been in business for 41 years, and still involved in the day to day operations. He added that he has done nothing to plan for his future and his exit. 
      Life can throw us a curve ball at any age, are your properly prepared.
      I know it sounds a little crazy, but the right time to get you business ready to sell, is when you first go into business.
      What are you doing to prepare for your exit, sale or if life throws you a curve ball?
       
       


  • Our Sponsors



×
×
  • Create New...