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Is the General Auto Repair Shop Model Still Sustainable?

Joe Marconi
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Gerald Martin Rookie

Gerald Martin

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Great questions Joe.  In my opinion, the future is bright for independent repair shops that embrace emerging technologies and invest in training.  See you all at Vision 2024 in Kansas City!

However, I can see the possibility that we no longer expect that every tech has the knowledge or training for every job that comes through the shop, as may have been expected in the past.  There may be alignment and ADAS techs, diesel repair techs, driveability diag techs, etc.  Oh, and high tech immobilizer and key programming work that requires locksmith level training.  A certain amount of specialization is inevitable, isn't it?

Wouldn't it make sense to have a goal of having two technicians in the shop that have competency for services offered by the company?

Gerald

 

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willydmax Apprentice

willydmax

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I completely agree with Gerald. You have to keep up with technology. I’m a general repair shop that started in 2014. I’ve been by myself until last summer I hired a kid part time. I think it depends quite a bit on your location. I’m in the Midwest in a small hick town and I have absolutely no issues being profitable or busy. I work on most makes but am not afraid of telling a customer that I’m not interested in working on their European car, older carbureted vehicle etc. I do a fair bit of transmission and engine replacements along with quite a lot of diesel repairs. If you’re straight forward, honest and have a caring attitude, most people will respect you for your boundaries and if they don’t then you don’t want to work for them anyway. I’m the only shop for miles around besides the dealer that can program/update most brands. The tooling costs a lot but most of my customers are very happy to not have to go to the dealer. I don’t have any customers with hybrids yet, even though I’ve taken some training on them. This year will be my 7th year going to Vision and it’s interesting how many of my classes are on management instead of technical. Vision is a huge highlight of the year and I wouldn’t miss it for anything. Just my $.02

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willydmax Apprentice

willydmax

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Some more thoughts, I love efficiency and the challenge of book time. I think if you’re reasonably competent and have great tools that book time can easily be beat. Most of the time I work by myself and keep close track of my time via my shop management system. I typically arrive around 7:30 and leave around 5:10 Monday through Friday. Most of the time I bill an average of 40 hours or more per week. You can train yourself to look at what needs taken apart and visualize what it takes for tools to make it happen. I’m allergic to turning anything out by hand and will spend money to make that happen with tools. A rolling tool cart should be sitting right beside you with the main items on or in it so you don’t waste time walking. Shop-Ware is what I use and it has helped me immensely to be more organized and efficient. 

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Mark Adam Newbie

Mark Adam

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Yes, the general auto repair shop model is still sustainable, but it requires adaptation to modern trends and technologies. With the rise of electric and hybrid vehicles, shops must invest in training and equipment to handle these new systems. Additionally, the increasing complexity of automotive technology means that repair shops must stay updated with the latest diagnostic tools and software. By offering specialized services, maintaining high-quality customer service, and keeping pace with industry changes, general auto repair shops can remain viable and competitive in the evolving automotive landscape. Adaptability and continuous improvement are key to their sustainability.

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