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Mobile Auto Repair?

JustTheBest

By JustTheBest
in Repair & Maintenance Services

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Yes. I'm going to start my own mobile mechanic service as soon as I can find a 5,000 sq. ft. van to put everything in. I'll cause some traffic jams I guess.....

I've never seen a mobile mechanic work out. I always thought it was for guys who wanted their own shop but couldnt afford a real building. Pep boys opened 2 independent type shops in my area that I've seen (Austin. Not exactly a economically starved city). One of them already failed. Sounds more like desperation to me. Pep boys has also been bugging the heck out of me to buy parts from them lately. I'm wondering more about about when they're going to start closing stores than them causing good shops a problem.

What ever happened with Amazon selling auto repair? I haven't heard about that lately. 

 

  • 6 months later...
WMW Rookie

WMW

Posted
Posted

I know this is a resurection of an old thread but, I need input on this matter as well.  

While doing my own research on becoming a mobile mechanic it has become apparent that if a mobile business is started with the exptectation to maintain a high work load there is also a high probability for failure.  All transparency... I plan on working mobile until I can get a shop, but also plan on keeping it small.  Are there any words of wisdom?  Is this a bad idea all together?  Should I just start off with a shop?  Any success stories?

  • Like 1
Hands On Community Regular

Hands On

Posted
Posted (edited)

What I can tell you is, you might make more money doing uber or lyft.

I occasionally get a call from someone looking for a mobile mechanic. I tell them I can tow the car to my shop for $60 and guarantee a fix here, or I can drive to them for $114.79 an hour and maybe be able to fix it there. The clock starts when I leave and continues to run as I obtain parts. I get one of two responses,  they go for the tow, or they call around for a cheaper mobile mechanic. 

The people seeking a mobile mechanic are looking for a deal. They want the oil changed for less then 50, the starter or fuel pump replaced for half of what it should cost. They want to supply you the parts. 

Assuming 100 hour labor rate. What if your lucky, and you score 3 oil changes and two starters in one day. The starters pay .8, the oil changes you make 10 each on. You spent all day driving around but made out with $180 for the day. Let's say you get this lucky every day and at the end of the week you have $900 in your pocket. Let's say you score this big all month and made, let's be generous, let's say you got a few extras sold and made like $6500 at the end of the month.

Insurance 600 = 5900

Fuel 700 = 5200

Truck payment 300 = 4900

Tools 100 = 4800

Income tax ?1000? = 3800

Misc 100 = 3700

Truck maintenance 100 = 3600

If your hustling, have a steady amount of gravy work, maybe you can make a living depending on where you live. Am I missing expenses? Being to generous with the amount of gravy work you might lend? What happens when that 2 hour fuel pump becomes 6 hours on the ground? Or you do oil changes all day every day for a month?

You can make over $6,000 a month driving Uber BlackSUV in Denver 40 hours a week.

 

https://www.ridester.com/driver-income-calculator/

Edited by Hands On
Posted link to uber income calculator.
WMW Rookie

WMW

Posted
Posted

Are you currently a mobile mechanic?  Does it help to market and advertize as a mobile mechanic?  You say occasionally get a call for someone looking for a mobile mechanic.  That says one of two things to me...  either 1) You have a permanent shop and occasionally someone calls for a mobile mechanic or 2) Youre a mobile mechanic who occasionally gets calls. 

Uber is out of the question.  So I guess I better get my butt in gear and figure this thing out.  Is insurance really $600/mo?  There has to be a way to be a successful mobile mechanic.  Is there an easy way to start an actual shop?

  • 1 month later...
WMW Rookie

WMW

Posted
Posted

that seems to be the constant.  undercutting.  Do I "Have" to undercut myself to stay competitive?  Thats what I do not know.  I would imagine that if I provided a decent service at a convienent time and place for the customer, they would be willing to pay atleast the same as a brick and mortar shop for the convience.  Hopefully word of mouth gets out and more people trust me as a legit business vs a fly by night backyard mechanic working out of the back of a station wagon.  

The working environment is a concern of mine.  I am currently in the USAF as an aircraft mechanic and have spent most of my 23 years outside in the elements.  While I dont mind it, I dont like it.   But, being in florida, makes it bearable for most of the year.  Mobile is definatley not something I want to personally do forever.  Eventually I want my own shop, and a few mobile mechanics to keep that angle going (as long as its profitable).  

 

JimO Collaborator

JimO

Posted
Posted

There are many corporate offices in my area and many have huge multi-level parking decks. I recently found out that someone is performing repairs in one of the corporate office parking decks. Oil change, light bulb, belt, hose, wiper blades etc... No lift, no heat, no a/c but they are out of the rain and sun. They started doing wash, wax, detailing but they apparently have now expanded their operation to include repairs. Local zoning should hopefully put an end to it. I don’t appreciate having a mobile tech operating in my area with no “brick & mortar” overhead but they are crossing the line when they set up a quasi shop in a corporate office building that is zoned office research. This can’t be the only place operating like this so everyone should be aware of the possibility. 

Hands On Community Regular

Hands On

Posted
Posted
19 hours ago, WMW said:

that seems to be the constant.  undercutting.  Do I "Have" to undercut myself to stay competitive?  Thats what I do not know.  I would imagine that if I provided a decent service at a convienent time and place for the customer, they would be willing to pay atleast the same as a brick and mortar shop for the convience.  Hopefully word of mouth gets out and more people trust me as a legit business vs a fly by night backyard mechanic working out of the back of a station wagon.  

The working environment is a concern of mine.  I am currently in the USAF as an aircraft mechanic and have spent most of my 23 years outside in the elements.  While I dont mind it, I dont like it.   But, being in florida, makes it bearable for most of the year.  Mobile is definatley not something I want to personally do forever.  Eventually I want my own shop, and a few mobile mechanics to keep that angle going (as long as its profitable).  

 

If you can get away with charging $200.00 per oil change you would make some money. These guys are right too, what happens when you miss the coolant bucket and drop coolant or any other hazard chemical in the street, on their drive way, at the parking lot where they work?  Also can you get insured being mobile? What would your garage keepers policy look like? My policy replaces the car if we cause a total loss, and covers their medical up to 2 million.

Hands On Community Regular

Hands On

Posted
Posted
On 6/20/2019 at 3:28 PM, WMW said:

Are you currently a mobile mechanic? 

No

Does it help to market and advertize as a mobile mechanic?

It helps to advertise any business marketing to the clientel you want to attract. We market to higher end clients mostly. We do not advertise mobile.

You say occasionally get a call for someone looking for a mobile mechanic.  That says one of two things to me...  either

1) You have a permanent shop and occasionally someone calls for a mobile mechanic or

Yes, we are  a permanent shop and occasionaly people call to see if we do mobile mechanic. The people that call looking for a mobile mechanic are always looking for a discount.

2) Youre a mobile mechanic who occasionally gets calls. 

No

Uber is out of the question. 

Why discount something that might be more profitable with your current skill set and available funding.

So I guess I better get my butt in gear and figure this thing out. 

If your a solid tech with the skills to open your own business, why not work as a tech, good shops are paying big money for solid techs. Then save and do it right, or find a guy that might be retiring soon, work for him and hope to  get in and take over.

Is insurance really $600/mo? 

On the low end.

There has to be a way to be a successful mobile mechanic. 

Mobile Diagnostic Technicians make good money if you can build your reputation. These are the guys a shop calls when they can not fix a car. I have also seen guys that just do mobile PCM and ECM flashing. There is also good money in this if there is not already someone in your market.

Is there an easy way to start an actual shop?

Learn how to talk people into giving you money until you have 20 to 40 thousand dollars depending on your market. Take that money and find a cheap lease somewhere and drop in two cheap lifts. Buy a few drums of oil and a full line of filters and give away cheap oil changes to build a client base. Keep quality tight and do lots of local events to promote yourself. Hire people right away, there is no way to make money with one person, businesses have way to much overhead, you will need minimum two employees to start. Do not use cheap labor. Do not have a partner. Have your EIN and licensing in place and insurance before you open the door to a client. Pay your taxes and employees first, rent next, vendors, then yourself. Have a spouse with an income to fall back on. That is as easy as I think it is able to be done, maybe someone else can give you a batter start up scenario.

 

  • Like 1
WMW Rookie

WMW

Posted
Posted (edited)

interesting.  theres alot of good points in this topic. 

For me working for someone is out of the question, if im not working at an airline.  Im just done with big planes.  Obviously I will do whats required to pay the bills but the whole purpose for me opening my own business to do something new that I enjoy on my own terms.  Maybe a mobile small/light private aircraft mechanic?

Maybe for me it is better to find an actual garage to work out of, just seems like that business model has been figured out for the most part.  I am not entirely closed off to the idea and I can see how as brick and mortar business owners it can be frustrating to see someone out on the street doing work,  But I dont honestly see an issue working with a vehicle on someone elses business or home property if given the permission.  Obviously, these would be quick jobs and not clutches, engines or rear ends etc in the business park.  To be honest the messy driveway is a concern of mine, and I dont have a fool proof plan on how to avoid those spills and this combined with the convience of being out of the weather, and being able to raise the vehicle above my head is a major player in reasons why I shouldnt do it mobile.  However, I cant help but think that there is a way to be successful while doing it mobile.  Is it a popular choice? no.  and judging by some responses on here its pretty much blasphemy. lol  Also, as I dig into this veture of mobile mechanics I come across alot of shady backyard mechanics and it is frustrating when I know im going to ask for more money, but then I think about me providing a warranty on parts, and having an actual tax paying and registered, legal business.  Will this be enough to provide myself with a decent flow of customers?  I dont know.  From some of the above statements, it seems nearly impossible to navigate through the rifraf.

Edited by WMW
Dnzauto Apprentice

Dnzauto

Posted
Posted

I am amazed how mobiles they get away with BAR, Osha, City, Fire, Carb etc..... Sounds very unacceptable to me.....mobile should do code reading ,bulb replacement, glass replacement and such.....anything else seems to me as they have to clean up the dirt afterwards which they do?   Who is keeping an eye on their mobile garage libaility etc?   .

Hands On Community Regular

Hands On

Posted
Posted
On 7/22/2019 at 6:01 PM, WMW said:

interesting.  theres alot of good points in this topic. 

For me working for someone is out of the question, if im not working at an airline.  Im just done with big planes.  Obviously I will do whats required to pay the bills but the whole purpose for me opening my own business to do something new that I enjoy on my own terms.  Maybe a mobile small/light private aircraft mechanic?

Maybe for me it is better to find an actual garage to work out of, just seems like that business model has been figured out for the most part.  I am not entirely closed off to the idea and I can see how as brick and mortar business owners it can be frustrating to see someone out on the street doing work,  But I dont honestly see an issue working with a vehicle on someone elses business or home property if given the permission.  Obviously, these would be quick jobs and not clutches, engines or rear ends etc in the business park.  To be honest the messy driveway is a concern of mine, and I dont have a fool proof plan on how to avoid those spills and this combined with the convience of being out of the weather, and being able to raise the vehicle above my head is a major player in reasons why I shouldnt do it mobile.  However, I cant help but think that there is a way to be successful while doing it mobile.  Is it a popular choice? no.  and judging by some responses on here its pretty much blasphemy. lol  Also, as I dig into this veture of mobile mechanics I come across alot of shady backyard mechanics and it is frustrating when I know im going to ask for more money, but then I think about me providing a warranty on parts, and having an actual tax paying and registered, legal business.  Will this be enough to provide myself with a decent flow of customers?  I dont know.  From some of the above statements, it seems nearly impossible to navigate through the rifraf.

First step to any business is laying down a map to profitability. In other words, show on paper how you plan to make your money. I do not think anyone thinks mobile mechanic is blasphemy.  Just show me, with numbers, how you plan to make your money. What do you figure will be your operating expense vs what you think your income will be, and why.

WMW Rookie

WMW

Posted
Posted
On 7/29/2019 at 11:08 PM, Hands On said:

First step to any business is laying down a map to profitability. In other words, show on paper how you plan to make your money. I do not think anyone thinks mobile mechanic is blasphemy.  Just show me, with numbers, how you plan to make your money. What do you figure will be your operating expense vs what you think your income will be, and why.

these are all answers im trying to figure out.  As I origionally stated, there are established brick and mortor shops everywhere, the information to become a successful traditional garage is there.  Just not alot about having a successful legitemate mobile mechanic business.  

WMW Rookie

WMW

Posted
Posted
On 7/29/2019 at 5:48 AM, Dnzauto said:

I am amazed how mobiles they get away with BAR, Osha, City, Fire, Carb etc..... Sounds very unacceptable to me.....mobile should do code reading ,bulb replacement, glass replacement and such.....anything else seems to me as they have to clean up the dirt afterwards which they do?   Who is keeping an eye on their mobile garage libaility etc?   .

Are these just a simple abide and comply within the standard for normal mechanic businesses?  Why wouldnt this concept work with mobile?  Any specific standard that would be broken if I were working in someones yard/driveway parking lot etc?  other than the city ordanences that would state weather or not its specifically allowed.  I wouldnt imagine it to be difficult to have a fire extinguisher, eye wash station, gloves/goggles and all appliccable ppe, etc. available on the site.  Is there a major item im missing.  Cant be too much different than working on an airplane on a ramp as far as spills and safety.  

JimO Collaborator

JimO

Posted
Posted
4 hours ago, WMW said:

Are these just a simple abide and comply within the standard for normal mechanic businesses?  Why wouldnt this concept work with mobile?  Any specific standard that would be broken if I were working in someones yard/driveway parking lot etc?  other than the city ordanences that would state weather or not its specifically allowed.  I wouldnt imagine it to be difficult to have a fire extinguisher, eye wash station, gloves/goggles and all appliccable ppe, etc. available on the site.  Is there a major item im missing.  Cant be too much different than working on an airplane on a ramp as far as spills and safety.  

At the conclusion of a recent fire inspection I was written up for having a folding chair stored in front of my main electric service panel. This is a safety infraction because the chair could prevent quick access to the panel if needed during an emergency. Do mobile techs know where the service panel is? Am I mad that I was written up for the folding chair? Not happy but not mad, I was wrong, I unknowingly caused a possible safety issue and it is now corrected. Am I mad that there is a mobile repair tech performing auto repairs at a residential home garage with no access to the service panel which is locked in the basement? Yes, that annoys me because the mobile tech will never have to deal with a fire inspector. That safety hazard goes undetected. We no longer have an even playing field.

Concerning your comparison of this not being too different than working on an airplane on a ramp. Although I have never worked on airplanes I would imagine that even on the ramp you would have airport safety specialists, possibly OSHA and an airport fire department at you disposal in a moments notice. You working on the ramp instead of the hangar is more comparable to me working on a vehicle in my parking lot as opposed to inside one of my bays. We would both be performing repair work on our property just not in our building. Transport that same plane to a residential driveway in a remote neighborhood with no supervision, no OSHA, no in-house fire department and then you have a better comparison. Is the mobile tech familiar with the topography in the event of a spill? Does he know where storm drains are? Is he prepared with an adequate spill kit? Does he have the phone numbers to alert local, county and state officials in the event of a spill? Or is he a ghost that flits in and out of neighborhoods, homes and office buildings making repairs and leaving no way to trace any of his actions or mistakes? If I cause a spill I own it and the authorities will look no further than my front door. If the mobile tech causes a spill he is gone like a fart in a wind storm. 

If I have a commercial office building that is zoned for office research and I rent out the office space to appropriate tenants I would be within my rights. If I allowed a chef to set-up gas grilles and sell hot dogs and hamburgers in a tent in the backyard it would be a zoning violation. If I allowed a “mobile tech” to operate an auto repair business in the garage of my building it is also a zoning violation. If a tech responds to a road call for a dead battery it would be normal to jump the car, bring it back to the shop and replace the battery. If on the other hand he brings a new battery to the vehicle and installs it on site I have to question his efficiency but I am ok with it. When he proceeds to complete an oil change, air filter, cabin filter and wiper blades then I get upset. He is now no longer performing unexpected road service to get the vehicle mobile but instead he is completing routine maintenance.  

 

 

WMW Rookie

WMW

Posted
Posted

The more I inquire it would appear that its more of a hate on mobile tech's issue.  Some dont like them due to not having as much overhead.  Some stereotype by assuming all are the same slimey, backyard, tricksters up to no good.  Maybe this is why there is assumed to be no good or decent mobile mechanics.  I can honestly see both points of view.  When im researching competing local mobile techs on craigslist, facebook etc. I do a search in the florida business license webside and most of them (90%) are operating without a license...atleast not one under thier posted business name.  Most of the rest are operating as business, but are working out of a trunk of a civic, and cannot possibly have a legit way of providing a quility service.  When I search nationwide on Google, a few that appear to be legit come up.  Most specialize in a specific arena.  One was tires and they had an entire trailer full of mounting/balancing machines (which i wouldnt imagine would be a very accurate balance being in a moving trailer), but they appear to have a legit, good business going.  These are not the norm.

However, good scenarios are presented.  Like working inside someones personal garage.  Seems like a bit of a risk.  conflict of insurances i would no doubt be an area of contension.  Say I R2 a fuel injector on someones car in thier garage I start the car and fuel sprays everywhere and ignites.  Burns down the house.  Who's insurance covers it?  homeowners? or my garage keepers policy?  I see this as an issue.  the slimey, backyard, tricksters would undoubtedly dip out leaving the homeowner to fend for themselves.  The answer...not sure.  Work solely outside to eliminate the home owner liability?  establish with the insurance company the intent of coverage inside someones garage?  Same with the electrical panel issue.  Simple answer for me would be to have my own generator.  Theres no way to know that im going to have power everywhere so it would without a doubt be something I would have at all times.  Spill kits are mandatory when working with and transporting hazardous chemicals.  As well as having an up to date MSDS/SDS with all the potential chemicals one could come in contact with.  Labeling on the vehicle are also mandatory if carrying a certain amount.  

There is nothing I can do shy of renting a building to increase my overhead to be equal to any brick and mortor shop.  I dont think hating on mobile tec's because it costs less to operate is the answer.  I do agree that there needs to be something done to make them legit business and to operate within the established standards.  

Looks like I still have tons of homework still to do.   I need to get smart on laws and policies, and come up with a way to operate within thier standards.  There has to be a way to navigate this thing.  Does anyone have references for anywhere to start looking for this information?  OSHA/safety standards I can find, but I believe the laws of zoning, working, and conducting as a business in varying scenarios would be a good place to start.  Im in Hillsborough county, Florida, hoping to serve the greater Tampa area.

bantar Community Regular

bantar

Posted
Posted

Some of the large business campuses here have concierge services for:  1) Car Washes, 2) Gasoline Fillups.   I think they might even offer oil changes.    With as many broke people that I meet daily, I'm surprised that these services are a hit.  But it probably explains some of the broke problems.   Some of my less well-off employees don't think twice about ordering takeout from DoorDash or the like.    So, there is a market for convenience.   I also meet DIY-ers that would DIY, but their apartment won't let them do it onsite.

Now, how do you reach your customer base?    Who knows that you exist?   I would expect that you will meet even broker people on Craigslist that I usually meet.   If you can sign on with a business that will do concierge, that would be good as they advertise internally to their tenants.    I would guess that the drive time between jobs and the back and forth to the parts store will kill any efficiency that you might have.   And what if the part won't be here until tomorrow?  Florida isn't much cooler than Texas and I would not want to be working out in the elements.  This sounds like a tough way to start.    But, there are folks doing (trying) it.  Good luck.

Hands On Community Regular

Hands On

Posted
Posted
On 8/5/2019 at 6:26 PM, WMW said:

The more I inquire it would appear that its more of a hate on mobile tech's issue.  Some dont like them due to not having as much overhead.  Some stereotype by assuming all are the same slimey, backyard, tricksters up to no good.  Maybe this is why there is assumed to be no good or decent mobile mechanics.  I can honestly see both points of view.  When im researching competing local mobile techs on craigslist, facebook etc. I do a search in the florida business license webside and most of them (90%) are operating without a license...atleast not one under thier posted business name.  Most of the rest are operating as business, but are working out of a trunk of a civic, and cannot possibly have a legit way of providing a quility service.  When I search nationwide on Google, a few that appear to be legit come up.  Most specialize in a specific arena.  One was tires and they had an entire trailer full of mounting/balancing machines (which i wouldnt imagine would be a very accurate balance being in a moving trailer), but they appear to have a legit, good business going.  These are not the norm.

However, good scenarios are presented.  Like working inside someones personal garage.  Seems like a bit of a risk.  conflict of insurances i would no doubt be an area of contension.  Say I R2 a fuel injector on someones car in thier garage I start the car and fuel sprays everywhere and ignites.  Burns down the house.  Who's insurance covers it?  homeowners? or my garage keepers policy?  I see this as an issue.  the slimey, backyard, tricksters would undoubtedly dip out leaving the homeowner to fend for themselves.  The answer...not sure.  Work solely outside to eliminate the home owner liability?  establish with the insurance company the intent of coverage inside someones garage?  Same with the electrical panel issue.  Simple answer for me would be to have my own generator.  Theres no way to know that im going to have power everywhere so it would without a doubt be something I would have at all times.  Spill kits are mandatory when working with and transporting hazardous chemicals.  As well as having an up to date MSDS/SDS with all the potential chemicals one could come in contact with.  Labeling on the vehicle are also mandatory if carrying a certain amount.  

There is nothing I can do shy of renting a building to increase my overhead to be equal to any brick and mortor shop.  I dont think hating on mobile tec's because it costs less to operate is the answer.  I do agree that there needs to be something done to make them legit business and to operate within the established standards.  

Looks like I still have tons of homework still to do.   I need to get smart on laws and policies, and come up with a way to operate within thier standards.  There has to be a way to navigate this thing.  Does anyone have references for anywhere to start looking for this information?  OSHA/safety standards I can find, but I believe the laws of zoning, working, and conducting as a business in varying scenarios would be a good place to start.  Im in Hillsborough county, Florida, hoping to serve the greater Tampa area.

Not sure why you say folks are hating you, so far everyone has simply posted about realistic roadblocks and environmental concerns.

Have you called an insurance agent to see what that costs yet? Please do so, then report back. One step of business plan will be done.

Hands On Community Regular

Hands On

Posted
Posted
On 8/4/2019 at 5:34 PM, WMW said:

these are all answers im trying to figure out.  As I origionally stated, there are established brick and mortor shops everywhere, the information to become a successful traditional garage is there.  Just not alot about having a successful legitemate mobile mechanic business.  

Your to focused on the words garage and mobile. Focus on the word business. It's all the same, resteraunt, barber, garage, mobile, gas station, retail shoe store.

Stop thinking like a worker if you want to be a business owner.

Cost is the easiest to figure out. Make the insurance agent your first call, then report back, I'll walk you through step by step.

WMW Rookie

WMW

Posted
Posted
19 hours ago, Hands On said:

Not sure why you say folks are hating you, so far everyone has simply posted about realistic roadblocks and environmental concerns.

Have you called an insurance agent to see what that costs yet? Please do so, then report back. One step of business plan will be done.

I've never said anyone is hating on me.  Just mobile techs.  and I would imagine its the shady mobile techs...atleast I would hope so.  

If youre lumping me into the shady ones automatically (which it would appear is what happened here) then my theory is correct that all mobile techs are hated on.  

-- "Am I mad that there is a mobile repair tech performing auto repairs at a residential home garage with no access to the service panel which is locked in the basement? Yes, that annoys me because the mobile tech will never have to deal with a fire inspector. That safety hazard goes undetected. We no longer have an even playing field."

--" If I cause a spill I own it and the authorities will look no further than my front door. If the mobile tech causes a spill he is gone like a fart in a wind storm."

--"I am amazed how mobiles they get away with BAR, Osha, City, Fire, Carb etc..... Sounds very unacceptable to me....."

--"If there are any mobile guys reading this, I just want you to know that this isn't personal.  But when I applied for my business license in my town... I was explicitly told that I would be given citations for working on the street in the area in front of my business.  So it burns me a little to pay taxes, be legal and get these kind of limitations thrown at me and have to adhere to them.  I wouldn't even work outside, because it's just not what we do.  But to have that limitation thrown at me and have it become a business model all around the country... seems like a point waiting for friction.  "

 

All of these are definatley issues worth mentioning, but it would appear that they are also a stereotype derived by shop owners generalizing ALL mobile mechanics.  Most/all of them are likely to be true in some way and is the exact feedback I was looking for in order to become a successful, legit, OSHA abiding, non-shade tree, mobile tech.

As far as the insurance is concerned, I have done alittle research and found out there are policies for mobile mechanics.  I have a friend who I served with and is currently a shop and mobile mechanic business owner and he led me in the right direction.   I am currently deployed, and with the time difference it is difficult to get in contact with anyone by phone.   Ive inquired via email and received info stating there are policies, but they all want a phone conversation which I want to do.  I may just wait till I return to get an actual quote, then I could make an informed decision to which company to go with.  I will definatley be reporting the policy details.  I want to see how/if they differ from a shop policy.    

WMW Rookie

WMW

Posted
Posted
19 hours ago, Hands On said:

Your to focused on the words garage and mobile. Focus on the word business. It's all the same, resteraunt, barber, garage, mobile, gas station, retail shoe store.

Stop thinking like a worker if you want to be a business owner.

Cost is the easiest to figure out. Make the insurance agent your first call, then report back, I'll walk you through step by step.

thanks for the advice.  youre right, its a business.  and I need to think like a business owner.  I appreciate any help and advice I can get.  As I stated earlier, I will inquire about a policy and see what it offers.  What are the basic coverages I would need?  I see theres Garage keepers policy, Garage liability, etc.  Do I absolutley need them all?  

Hands On Community Regular

Hands On

Posted
Posted
23 minutes ago, WMW said:

thanks for the advice.  youre right, its a business.  and I need to think like a business owner.  I appreciate any help and advice I can get.  As I stated earlier, I will inquire about a policy and see what it offers.  What are the basic coverages I would need?  I see theres Garage keepers policy, Garage liability, etc.  Do I absolutley need them all?  

Your insurance agent will answer these questions they are supposed to let you know about potential exposures, liabilities ect.  There are also OSHA consultants out there you can make an appointment with to go over those requirements. There is a lot of leg work to do for sure with starting any business.  It will be hard to do while deployed, but you could start reading business self help books. If you can get your hands on a business planning book this will help.  Good luck on your deployment, I am ex Air Force. Thank you for your service.

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    • Joe Marconi
      The Technician Shortage Is Our Fault, And It's Time We Own It
      By Joe Marconi in Joe's Blog
         0 comments
      The Technician Shortage Is Our Fault, And It's Time We Own It
      Nearly every day, I hear shop owners complain: "There's a technician shortage. We can't find qualified people. There's no one out there." If that's true, then who's to blame?
      The industry? The schools? The government? I don't know how you feel, but who promised us an endless supply of qualified technicians?
      Another common complaint is that young people do not want to work in the trades. Well, if that were true, then why are other trades such as HVAC, electrical, and plumbing growing? What are they doing that the automotive industry is not? 
      Here's the reality we need to face: We do have a problem, but we shouldn't look for someone or any entity to rescue us. Not the government. Not the trade schools. Not the recruiting companies. No one owes us a workforce. If we want great people in our industry, it's up to us. At some point, we need to own up to the truth: Building a pipeline of qualified technicians is our responsibility.
      In this blog article, I will break down the key reasons we are in this situation today and what we, as an industry, can do to solve the technician shortage. Are you ready to look in the mirror?
      Have We Pushed Technicians Away?
      Let's take a look at flat-rate pay. True flat rate, which pays a technician only for the hours they produce, is a controversial pay plan that emphasizes high production levels and creates a competitive work environment that, if not properly controlled, can lead to increased mistakes and a decline in morale and team spirit. Additionally, the stress and physical demands placed on technicians as they age are not favorable to long-term employee retention. What do we do with technicians as they grow older into their fifties and begin to slow down? 
      I have heard all the arguments and pros and cons of flat-rate pay, and I am not going to judge any pay plan. Let the facts speak for themselves. True flat rate has changed in most areas around the country and has evolved into a pay plan that gives technicians some pay guarantee.
      Many shop owners have learned that team morale, along with the opportunity to earn income, is important to technicians and to the company's long-term success. But let me ask you: how many technicians have left or been pushed out over the years because of the old flat-rate pay system?
      Another issue is the workplace environment. I remember being grateful to be hired as a young technician at a local repair shop. While very thankful, the work environment was not ideal. The shop owner kept the bay doors open year-round (I am from New York) unless it rained or snowed. He felt that if the bay doors were closed, customers might think we were closed for business. We had no heat and no hot water. Many of the jobs were done outside, year-round,  in all types of weather. The starting pay was minimum wage, with no benefits, sick days, or vacation pay. 
      Now, again, I need to point out that I was truly grateful for the opportunity this shop owner gave me. I learned a lot working there, and the experience was pivotal in my career. But looking back, I wonder how many people were discouraged by these working conditions?
      While the physical demands of the repair workplace are daunting, perhaps even more critical is the culture. Too many of my generation shop owners preached the mindset of "my way or the highway." We were the business owners, after all. We started our companies, took all the risks, and provided jobs. Why shouldn't we be the ones to set the ground rules our way?   
      Many of us found over the years that the "my way or the highway" mentality was a sure way to isolate employees and make them more likely to look over the fence for greener grass. In other words, it led many technicians to seek employment elsewhere, where they felt they could be appreciated and recognized for their hard work. The issue, however, was that there wasn't much green grass around. Disappointment after disappointment, bouncing from repair to repair shop, eventually led to despair. So, I ask you: were workplace conditions a contributing factor in today's technician shortage?
      Another factor that we are all well aware of is the complexity of the modern automobile. When I started, the work was mostly physical, and you were required to master essentially three vehicle models: General Motors, Ford, and Chrysler. Let's fast-forward to today. The evolution of automotive technology, along with the extensive training and tools required, has outpaced the typical technician's pay compensation, with no clear career path. Again, leading to frustration and insecurity about the future.
      Here is the bottom line: people don't leave their job; they leave their experience. We must do a better job. 
      The News Isn't all Bad; Your Next Steps to Fix the Technician Shortage
      To fix the technician shortage, it will take a combined effort from everyone in the automotive industry, particularly automotive shop owners. Shop owners are in the perfect position to make the greatest impact, not only on their businesses but also on the future automotive workforce.
      First, shop owners must become better leaders and understand that their ultimate success is directly dependent on the people they assemble around them. Any shop owner who mistakenly believes they can build an empire solely on their abilities is destined for serious disappointment. Business owners who think like this will eventually plateau. Without the collective contributions from a team of qualified people, your business will stall; it will not continue to grow.
      Create a workplace that attracts top talent: a clean, professional, well-equipped facility designed to support productivity, teamwork, and a career, not just a job. Build a great reputation in your community by getting involved locally. Become the auto repair shop that people take notice of as "the" place to work.
      Next, shop owners must become more financially knowledgeable. Knowing your numbers and what you need to achieve for a strong bottom-line profit is essential to paying technicians the money they need and deserve. Profit will also allow you to compete with other trade industries by providing a benefits package that has real take-home value and security.
      When it comes to culture, this is where the rubber hits the road. People crave recognition, praise, and a sense of purpose. Despite what you hear, people are not just money-motivated. Once people feel secure in their financial situation, retaining and motivating technicians can only be achieved by connecting with them on an emotional level. You cannot show enough appreciation. Give out praise for a job well done as if your business depended on it, because it does.
      As technicians age, we need to have a place for them. Expecting a 58-year-old to perform like a 35-year-old is unrealistic. We need to be more focused on career pathing. Provide training, skill development, and coaching to develop leaders and mentors within our older workforce. While their bodies may have slowed, the knowledge they have gained is priceless. 
      Our future is dependent on young people entering our industry. We need to give more young people opportunities. Every shop owner across the country should consider hiring an apprentice, then build an apprentice training plan and career path for them. If every shop did this, we could solve the technician shortage within five years. Get involved with the trade schools and high schools in your area. Look into the NAPA Apprenticeship Program. Don't sit on your hands with this one. Do it today.
      Lastly, don't get left behind. Commit to ongoing training for all your employees. Keep up to date with tools and equipment tailored to your business model. Don't try to be all things to all people and all vehicles. Identify your core profile customer and the vehicles they drive, and become an expert on those vehicles and the services you offer.

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    • nptrb
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      By nptrb

      Premium Member Content 

      This content is hidden to guests, one of the benefits of a paid membership. Please login or register to view this content.

    • carmcapriotto
      Stop Hiring in Panic Mode: Build a Recruiting Pipeline for Your Shop [RR 1094]
      By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Watch Full Video Episode Host Carm Capriotto welcomes Chris Lawson, founder of Technician Find, to discuss one of the biggest challenges facing independent auto repair shops today: finding and keeping great technicians.
      Chris explains why many shop owners fall into what he calls "fire alarm syndrome," waiting until a technician leaves before starting the hiring process. That reactive approach often leads to rushed decisions, poor hires, and ongoing turnover. Instead, he advocates for an "Always Be Recruiting" mindset, where shops continuously build relationships with potential candidates long before they have an opening.
      The conversation explores practical strategies for becoming a destination workplace, creating a recruiting pipeline, and building a culture that attracts top talent in a competitive market.
      What You'll Learn Why reactive hiring creates costly staffing problems How to build a bench of pre-qualified technicians before you need them Why becoming "10-mile famous" can help attract both technicians and customers How culture-focused marketing can outperform traditional help-wanted ads The three things technicians value most: respect, growth, and compensation Why sign-on bonuses often fail and how to structure them more effectively Practical ways to engage passive candidates who are not actively job hunting Resources available through Chris Lawson's free online community for shop owners
      The best time to recruit a technician is before you need one. Shops that continuously market their culture, build relationships with local talent, and maintain a pipeline of qualified candidates are better positioned to grow, avoid staffing emergencies, and create a workplace where top technicians want to stay. Recruiting is no longer an occasional task. It is an ongoing business strategy. Chris Lawson, TechnicianFind.Com Love your shop? Stay, but stay ready. Auto techs join to level up, find good shops, and keep tabs on top indie jobs nationwide. Techs only. No BS. Independent Wrench Jobs: https://www.skool.com/independentwrenchjobs Finding Technicians Part 1- Chris Lawson [RR 803]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e803/
      Finding Technicians Part 2 – Chris Lawson [RR 816]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e816/
      Technician Attraction Blueprint [RR 921]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e921/
      Attract, Develop, and Retain Top Automotive Talent [CC 113]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/cc113/
      Beyond Babysitters: Developing Strong Managers and Financial Transparency [RR 1076]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e1076/
      Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS
      Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care
      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/
      Connect with the Podcast:
      Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/
      Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto
      Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/
      Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 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 Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm   The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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
    • Riccardo
      If you had to step away from your shop for 30 days tomorrow, would your business continue operating successfully without you?
      By Riccardo

      Premium Member Content 

      This content is hidden to guests, one of the benefits of a paid membership. Please login or register to view this content.

    • carmcapriotto
      Is Your Shop the Problem? Hard Truths from the Voice of the Technician Survey Results [RR 1084]
      By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Watch Full Video Episode Host Carm Capriotto speaks with Jay Goninen, co-founder and president of WrenchWay, about insights from the 2026 Voice of the Technician Survey and what it reveals about the state of the automotive workforce.
      Jay encourages shop owners to download the free report to uncover blind spots and start meaningful conversations with their teams. The data show that technicians strongly prefer a four-day, 10-hour workweek with no weekends, along with proper equipment, paid vacation, retirement benefits, and paid training.
      While dealership technicians made up a larger share of respondents, independents stood out in workplace culture. 63% of independent technicians would recommend their shop to a friend, compared to 36% at dealerships, though dealerships scored higher in providing paid training. Across both groups, technicians favor an hourly wage plus bonus structure, which many feel better supports diagnosticians than traditional flat-rate systems.
      The discussion also highlights a troubling trend: the industry’s Net Promoter Score dropped to -60 in 2026, signaling that many technicians would not recommend the profession to others.
      To strengthen the talent pipeline, Jay discusses ASE Connects, a new initiative aimed at connecting shops with high school and technical school automotive programs to support them through mentorship, advisory roles, and community engagement.
      Carm also advocates elevating the profession by shifting the language from “mechanic” or “technician” to “specialist,” emphasizing the expertise required to work on today’s vehicles.
      Overall, the episode serves as a wake-up call for shop owners to use the survey insights to evaluate their culture, communication, and work environments, and to become employers technicians are proud to recommend.
      https://wrenchway.com/resources/2026-voice-of-technician-survey-report/
      Jay Goninen, Co-Founder and President, WrenchWay
      Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care 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/ Connect with the Podcast: - Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ - Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters - Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 - 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/ - 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 Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.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
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      By carmcapriotto
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      The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/ Remarkable Results Radio Podcastwith Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion.https://remarkableresults.biz/ Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Zwith Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/ Business by the Numberswith Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/ The Auto Repair Marketing Podcastwith 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 Blitzwith Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/ Speak Up! Effective Communicationwith Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.https://craigoneill.captivate.fm
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