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Whether you’ve worked in the industry for years as a technician or are considering moving into the automotive industry for the first time, owning an auto repair shop can be a very rewarding experience.

In collaboration with PartsTech, we reached out to our customer, Eric Reich, who purchased his auto shop in 2021, to learn about his experience and share it with you. 

Before becoming an auto repair shop owner, Eric worked for about ten years in the aerospace MRO (Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul) sector and about ten years in the electrical distribution sector. Looking for a change, Eric ultimately jumped into the auto repair industry by purchasing Bennet’s Automotive — a six-bay shop that services all domestic and Asian-manufactured vehicles.

The Dream: Owning his own business

For Eric, working at large corporations for 20 years became too predictably bureaucratic. He felt buried by meetings, paperwork, and slow decision-making. “After spending nearly two decades at corporate companies, I was looking for something I could call my own,” said Eric. “My goal was to be an independent business owner and not rely on large corporations whose only goal was to maximize profits at all costs. I found that independence when I purchased Bennett's Automotive, which has been in business since 1991.”

The Good: Success and positive outcomes

Taking the time to find the right shop 

Eric didn’t want just to purchase the first shop for sale that came across his path, “You can’t rush or predetermine anything. If the shop you are evaluating is not a good candidate, then you have to walk away,” said Eric. During his patient search, Eric found that he very much enjoyed the process of evaluating prospective shops and identifying if they were a good potential candidate to achieve his business goals. 

A dedicated, expert team

From our conversation with Eric, it is clear that he values his team, which stayed on through the change of ownership when he purchased the shop. “I have been consistently impressed and proud of my team's dedication and technical expertise. During the transition of ownership, they did not allow the uncertainty of the situation to impact the quality of their work,” said Eric. Having the right people in place is critical to a successful shop. “I was so lucky to purchase a shop with such a solid existing team.”

The Bad: Challenges and setbacks

A small team naturally results in staffing issues

Eric credits his team with minimizing the level of operational challenges he faced as a first-time shop owner: “Thankfully, I had a great core team when I took over the shop. Without them, the transition would have been much more difficult. You are only as good as your team.”

Though his team is awesome, he quickly discovered that his most significant operational challenge would be staffing: “As a smaller shop, the risk is in quality manpower. If we have a guy out or are operating a guy short, it adds additional strain to the rest of the team.”

The Unexpected: The things that caught Eric off guard 

Time is incredibly precious, and everyone wants a piece of it

“As a shop owner, you have to be careful about your time,” says Eric, “and one of the biggest surprises I encountered was the number of unsolicited calls from random companies trying to sell or sign me up for something.” 

There is a ton of paperwork.

“I did not realize how much paperwork would come with purchasing and owning a shop,” said Eric, “There is a lot!” 

Tips from Eric for anyone interested in purchasing an existing auto shop 

First things first 

Before jumping into the deep end of purchasing a shop, Eric recommends you consider the following first:

• Be very honest with yourself regarding your goals. Do you want to work in the shop? Be more hands-off? Etc.
• Be willing to walk away from a bad deal. Don't get attached to any one shop/location. If the numbers don't make sense, don't move forward.
• Ensure you have enough operating cash. You must have enough cash to handle normal ebbs and flows and an emergency. Not having enough cash is the fastest way to run into problems. (Eric likes to have at least three months of overhead.)
• Be very thoughtful about overhead. You have to ensure that each overhead line item has a specific and defined purpose. 
• Take training in basic financial acumen. To be set up for success when starting the journey of purchasing a shop, Eric advises aspiring shop owners to have a strong understanding of business finances such as P&Ls, pricing strategies, and cash flows to evaluate the shop's health. This is important so you know whether or not you should walk away from a deal. If necessary, Eric encourages taking a financial training course first.

It’s not just about the physical tools and equipment.

When purchasing an existing shop that already had a lot of the necessary physical tools and equipment, Eric focused on the software he wanted to implement. He encourages shop owners to evaluate the current software and make necessary changes early in their ownership journey. 

Choose software that drives efficiency and organization and is user-friendly for employees. Also, select software that enhances customer engagement and provides a positive experience.

“Generally, you must streamline your operations and communicate effectively with customers. We use Tekmetric as our shop management software for efficient workflow and customer communication. It also integrates with software such as PartsTech, which allows us to quickly source, price, and order parts from multiple vendors. This efficiency helps our small shop operate as lean as possible, speeding up vehicle repairs.”

Put a big focus on building trust with customers

One of the big reasons Eric wanted to upgrade the shop's software when he purchased it was to have better tools to help build customer trust. “We transitioned to Tekmetric from an older legacy program that made communicating via text/electronically almost impossible. We get consistent customer feedback that they like our new system and communication method with our ability to send inspections, images, videos, estimates, and invoices digitally.”

Closing

Purchasing an auto repair shop is a significant step that requires careful planning, honesty about your goals, and a strong understanding of the business's financial and operational aspects. 

As Eric's journey demonstrates, having the right team, investing in efficient software, and being prepared for unexpected challenges are crucial for success. If you're considering this path, take the time to evaluate your options thoroughly, seek out the necessary training, and build a solid foundation for your new venture. With dedication and the right approach, owning an auto repair shop can be an incredibly rewarding experience.

The customer experience begins from the time vehicle owners bring in their car all the way to the final touchpoint: the payments portion. Integrated payments meet customers where they are in today’s digital market whether that means they can pay from their home, pick up their vehicle after hours or pay from states away for college students to pick up their car. Beyond approving an estimate and two-way texting, customers can pay wherever they are, whenever it is most convenient for them. Integrated payments facilitate shop efficiency, improve the customer experience and meet customers where they need to be.‍

1. Facilitate shop efficiency

Integrated payments help the shop run more efficiently with a visible, centralized location. Service advisors maximize the shop’s workflow and drive the bottom line because they can complete more repairs due to efficiency. Integrated payments allow customers to pay without being at the shop or needing a physical credit card. Forgot your credit card at home? Not a problem!

Tekmetric’s text- to-pay feature allows your customers to pay anytime, from anywhere - whether they’re a busy professional who needs to pick up after hours or a parent paying for repairs for their college student. Text-to-Pay allows you to get the repair done and be able to pay for it without a major disruption to your daily routine or needing a physical credit card to make a payment.

2. Improve the customer experience 

Along with facilitating shop efficiency, integrated payments streamline the automotive customer experience with a unique opportunity to drive revenue to the shop while also providing a value-added experience to the customer. Customers will remember how convenient (or inconvenient) it was to pay during the final touchpoint of the auto repair process.

In addition to text-to-pay, integrated payments offer flexible, forward-thinking solutions that allow shops to save time and effort when managing funds and customer payments. Shop owners can share invoices and accept payments via text and email, enabling the customer to pay directly from their smartphone and pick up the vehicle when it is convenient for them. 

3. Meet customers where they want to be

Most auto repair purchases are surprise purchases that not even the best budgeter can anticipate. With integrated payments, Tekmetric caters to the customer’s budget and needs. Not the other way around. Repairs can be a stressful experience so why not make the customer’s life easier by allowing them to pay from home, from states away or in installments?

Offering Buy Now, Pay Later options, allows you to meet the customer where they are financially by providing installment payment options. When your customers need to get the repair done but do not have the budget to be able to pay for it in full in one sitting, BNPL meets your customer where they are financially while also ensuring the safety of the vehicle owner by getting the repair done. 

Digital payments are necessary for auto repair shops in the modern digital market. By implementing customer-centric digital solutions, you can significantly improve your shop’s customer experience by meeting customers where they are, reaching new ones and increasing your shop’s workflow efficiency. Making the last touchpoint of the experience more convenient creates a positive, lasting impression on the vehicle owner and creates trust with your repair shop – encouraging them to become a loyal customer and generate repeat business or referrals. 

Drivers can sometimes see repairs as frivolous or not important.

Reasons for their skepticism can stem from many things: the customer can’t see what the service advisor is seeing on their end; they might not have a way to gauge the importance of the issue at hand; maybe a service advisor doesn’t communicate the problem correctly or forgets to ask the customer if they’re following along.

Tekmetric’s features empower auto repair shops to improve customer transparency, streamline communication, provide flexible payment options, and simplify the payment process.

These promote customer trust, enhance satisfaction, and ultimately help your shop close more repair orders. And that's what matters most.

Because at the end of the day, if customers feel they can trust your shop, they'll be more likely to return the next time they need something repaired.

Tekmetric has remained committed to 2024 as a year filled with product innovation, providing updates that included feedback from our customers to demonstrate our commitment to a customer-centric approach as we continue to grow. From product updates and attending industry events to elevating our approach to data security, the second quarter has built on the first quarter’s momentum, leading to a vibrant first half of 2024.

Supporting Shops by Enhancing Efficiency

Tekmetric is systematically seeking opportunities to better understand the needs of shop owners and how our product can help shops run more efficiently. Building on our commitment to enhancing shop effectiveness, we focused Q2 on implementing updates that significantly bolster operational efficiency across the board.

Having the right technical team is essential, and with our latest update, shops can now assign multiple technicians to a single job, ensuring greater collaboration and efficiency. This update allows more experienced technicians to supervise staff technicians regarding more complex jobs, giving staff technicians an opportunity to experience hands-on learning. Overall, having multiple technicians on a single job improves efficiency by allowing you to align and prioritize your technician resources.

In addition to the multiple technician updates, we also released the Inventory Activity Feed. To ensure smooth operations and profitability, it's crucial to understand the flow of money. Inventory plays a necessary role in this process and with this update, shop owners now have an extra eye to spot inconsistencies in pricing and quantity. This new feature allows shops to monitor key changes made to parts inventory, identify and rectify errors and enhance operational efficiency and employee training initiatives.

As we move into Q3, we continue to strive for further updates that increase productivity within internal operations or streamline the customer experience from the first touchpoint until repair completion and beyond.

Commitment to Education and Learning Opportunities in the Industry

In an industry as complex as auto repair, there is no shortage of learning opportunities to improve your shop or learn how to incorporate customer feedback into our ongoing improvements.

At Tekmetric, we value a commitment to growing our knowledge base and sharing that with our peers at various events, whether it be in-person conferences or through webinars. Our dynamic duo John Phelps and P.J. Leslie attended WorldPac STX in Nashville, Tennessee in late April to share with repair shops key strategies to boost profits through enhanced customer experiences. Their presentation included leveraging digital tools and enhancing the digital buying experience, transforming buyer trends into revenue drivers and customer retention through excellent experiences.

From there, P.J. had two additional speaking opportunities at Thoroughbred Diesel in Winchester, Kentucky and AASPA Tools in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania in the month of May where he presented on How Customer Experience Can Change An Industry. At both events, he shared his expertise regarding digital purchasing experiences, leveraging trends for revenue growth, mastering customer retention strategies, and surpassing expectations of the CX generation. Additionally, John Phelps, made an appearance on the Changing the Industry podcast where he discussed Career Shifts and Setting Industry Standards. At Tekmetric, we believe that the desire to give and improve the lives of our customers is ultimately what will drive your business to reach its full potential.

We participated in the ASI & ASTA Summer Social in Apex, North Carolina which provided an opportunity to network and connect with shop owners and tire dealers from the area. Our participation at these events helps us better understand your needs, fueling our commitment to product innovation and excellence in customer experience.

Tekmetric also aims to support our shop owners in sharing their own insights and lessons about measuring up in today’s industry through the webinars that we host. This quarter, we hosted a webinar entitled “Confessions of A Shop Owner,” which included Travis Troy, owner of Honest Wrenches, along with Ward Myers, VP of Training and eServices at Advance Auto Parts, Gregg Rainville, SVP at Steer, and Ian Miller, Partner Manager at Tekmetric. The key points were all about defining and developing shop culture and leveraging technology to be more efficient in the auto repair space.

Prioritizing Data Security

We recently increased our benchmark in data security by earning SOC 2 Type II compliance. Tekmetric meets the five principles that are required which include: security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality and privacy. With SOC 2 Type II compliance, we are able to keep any information that you put into Tekmetric secure, from your shop’s data to your customers’ information. This gives us more confidence that as we continue to improve the quality of Tekmetric, we are also ensuring the security of everything that is entrusted to us.

Keeping Our Foot on the Gas

As we close out the first half of the year, Tekmetric aims to use our customer-centric approach as the fuel that ignites our product innovation. Through our commitment to attending industry events and listening to customer feedback, Tekmetric meets its customers where they are, with constant plans to keep innovating and improving. We head into Q3 with our customer-obsessed mentality to continue improving and streamlining shop operations with Tekmetric.

Starting a tire shop can be a profitable business venture, especially if you already own an auto repair shop and want to expand your services. Today's vehicle owners are increasingly looking for one-stop shops that cater to all their automotive needs, from engine repairs to tire services. 

By adding tire services to your offerings, you can attract more customers and increase your revenue. Services typically include tire sales, installation, balancing, rotation, and repair. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about how to start a tire shop, including the permits required, startup costs, profitability, and tools to help you streamline your operations.

10 Steps to Open Your Tire Shop Business

1. Market Research and Planning

• Market Research: Assess the demand for tire services in your area, analyze the competition, and identify your target market.
• Business Plan: Outline your business plan, target market, competition analysis, services offered, pricing strategy, and financial projections.

2. Legal Considerations and Permits

• Business Structure: Decide whether to register as a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation.
• Licenses and Permits: Obtain the necessary licenses and permits to operate a tire shop, including a business license, sales tax permit, and any environmental permits for proper tire disposal.
• Insurance: Get appropriate insurance coverage, such as general liability, property, and worker's compensation.

3. Startup Costs and Financing

Startup costs for a tire shop can vary depending on factors such as location, size, and the range of services offered. If needed, secure funding through personal savings, investors, or loans. Typical expenses include:

• Lease or purchase of property: Costs will vary based on location and size.
• Equipment and tools: Tire changers, balancers, alignment machines, and hand tools.
• Inventory: Initial stock of tires and related products.
• Marketing: Advertising and promotional materials to attract customers.
• Staffing: Wages for skilled technicians and support staff.

4. Choose a Location

Select a location that is easily accessible and visible to potential customers. High-traffic areas near major roads or highways can increase your shop's visibility and attract more customers. In addition, consider how close your shop will be to competitors and other auto repair shops.

5. Marketing and Branding

• Branding: Develop a strong brand identity, including a logo, signage, and marketing materials.
• Marketing Plan: Implement marketing strategies, such as local advertising, online marketing, and promotions. Consider offering discounts, loyalty programs, and special deals.
• Website: A website may be your first impression to a potential customer. Make sure your website showcases your services and shop appropriately. 
• SEO: Search engine optimization (SEO) can be a powerful tool to help shops be more visible to local customers searching for auto services.
• Social Media: Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok can be useful tools to help you reach new customers and promote special offers/events.
• Local Advertising: Billboards, signage, Google ads, and direct mailers can be influential local marketing tactics to win over new customers. 

6. Equipment and Tools

Invest in high-quality equipment and tools to provide efficient and reliable tire services. Essential equipment needed to open a tire shop includes:

• Tire changers
• Wheel balancers
• Alignment machine
• Diagnostic tools
• Tire inflation equipment
• Tire repair tools
• Jacks and car lifts

7. Inventory and Suppliers

Suppliers: Establish relationships with tire suppliers and distributors. Negotiate favorable terms and prices.

Inventory: Stock a range of tires for different vehicles and price points. Include related products like rims, tire accessories, and repair kits. Consider stocking a diverse inventory with summer, winter, performance and off-road tires.

8. Staffing and Training

Hire experienced and skilled technicians who are knowledgeable about tire services and automotive repairs. Providing ongoing training and development opportunities can help ensure your staff stays up-to-date with industry trends and best practices.

9. Tire Shop Software

To streamline your tire services and improve efficiency, consider implementing Tekmetric's Tire Suite. This powerful tool offers several features to enhance your tire shop management, including:

• DOT# Registration: Automatically register Department of Transportation (DOT) numbers with tire manufacturers, ensuring smooth operations.
• Easy Access Tire Specifications: Equip your Service Advisors with instant access to comprehensive tire data, facilitating accurate tire selection.
• Add Tires from Inventory: Identify the correct sized tires directly from your inventory right on the RO, speeding up the creation of any tire job.

10. Grand Opening and Beyond

• Grand Opening: Plan a grand opening event to attract customers and build awareness.
• Customer Service: Focus on providing excellent customer service to build a loyal customer base.
• Continuous Improvement: Regularly assess and improve your services, marketing efforts, and operations.

Benefits of Adding Tire Services

1. Increased Revenue Streams

Adding tire services to your auto repair shop can create new revenue streams and attract a broader customer base. Vehicle owners are more likely to choose a shop that offers comprehensive services, saving them time and effort.

2. Enhanced Customer Loyalty

Offering tire services can improve customer loyalty by providing a one-stop solution for all their automotive needs. Satisfied customers are more likely to return and recommend your store to others.

3. Competitive Advantage

By offering specialized tire services, you can differentiate your shop from competitors and position yourself as an expert in the field.

How Much Do Tire Shops Make Per Year?

The annual revenue of a tire shop can vary widely based on factors such as location, size, and the range of services offered. On average, a well-managed tire store can generate annual revenues ranging from $200,000 to $2 million. By offering high-quality services and building a loyal customer base, you can maximize your shop's profitability.

Final Thoughts

Starting a tire shop business can be a rewarding and profitable venture, especially when integrated with an existing auto repair shop. By following the steps outlined in this guide and leveraging the benefits of Tekmetric's Tire Suite, you can streamline your tire services, improve customer satisfaction, and increase your shop's profitability.

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When it comes to efficiency in an auto repair shop, a technician’s expertise and performance are paramount. The service advisor might be the face who interacts directly with vehicle owners, but technicians are the eyes and ears – the “pistons” – that run the whole system. As a technician, your ability to complete your day-to-day jobs efficiently and effectively is crucial to the shop’s overall performance.

Using data can help you maximize your own profitability as well as the shop’s. From identifying the problem to performing the diagnosis and completing the repair, data can significantly elevate your performance. Simply put, when you accurately and comprehensively leverage the data available through a system like Tekmetric at every step of a repair, you are going to perform more efficiently – to the benefit of the shop and your own career.

Concern: Ensure accuracy with data to identify the problem

When a vehicle is brought in with an initial concern, data can help you better respond to the customer’s needs communicated by the service advisor. By intentionally reviewing the data collected by the service advisor, you can better understand the reason the customer has brought the vehicle in for repair and ensure your diagnosis can uncover the true cause of the problem.

With Tekmetric, your job board and all the data it includes is your key to success. In fact, you can consider it your “digital clipboard,” as it includes all the details you need in one place. The job board shows approved estimates as well as completed work – so it’s your window into how efficiently you are addressing customer concerns, bottlenecks in the repair process and more. This tool enables you to follow up on questions or additional details so your service advisor can communicate with the customer. This in turn drives efficiency within the shop as you can ensure the customer’s concern is addressed promptly and correctly.

‍Cause: Utilize digital tools to make the correct diagnosis

Once a problem has been identified, you can also leverage data via digital vehicle inspections (DVIs) to document diagnoses and show the exact cause of the problem. This includes making thorough notes, including photos and videos and showcasing other issues you find that could need additional repairs. By leveraging digital tools to complete thorough inspections, you can become a diagnostic wizard, solving problems faster and more efficiently. This not only translates to happier customers who get their cars back sooner, but also lets you sell more work, boosting your productivity and earning potential.

The most important part of the digital vehicle inspection is clear photos and videos. By including the right number of photos in your inspection, you can educate your customer on their vehicle’s performance. However, be sure not to overwhelm the customer with information. Tekmetric has found that 6-8 photos on average is the sweet spot, although this may change with your customer base. 

A detailed DVI complete with photos allows the customer to review and approve the jobs they need the most, while planning for repairs that may come up in the future. As a result, you can educate the customer on the cause of their concern, share additional details if needed and simplify the communication process for you and the service advisor – ultimately increasing the average repair order (ARO).

Correction: Control the tempo of the shop’s workflow during repairs

Now that you have identified the problem, it’s time to complete the repair. As you work through your repair list, you can also use key metrics and information available on your job board to ensure you – and the shop overall – are working efficiently. For example, you can follow up with your service advisor on jobs you have inspected but are not approved for repairs. This helps drive the shop’s efficiency, so you can complete the work and get the car out of the shop to move onto the next one.

The other important aspect of the repair phase is collaborating with other technicians to better leverage each technician’s unique strengths and weaknesses. For example, if your specialty is brake replacements, you can work with your team to ensure you work on brake-related repairs. This helps streamline those repairs to you – the expert – so you can complete them faster and at a higher quality. In turn, the shop streamlines its overall processes, leading to more profit for the shop and for you.

Technicians are a critical part of a shop’s operations – but your role is not just limited to the actual repair. You can become even better in your role by using data throughout the customer experience: from the initial problem and diagnosis until the customer walks out with a fixed vehicle. In fact, utilizing data from the minute the customer walks into the shop leads to better diagnoses and more successful repairs. Learning how to use data correctly can help you perform at a higher level, ultimately increasing the profitability of the shop and growing your own paycheck.

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Automotive repair manuals are packed with detailed instructions. Instead of grappling with trial and error, technicians can follow step-by-step guides. This boosts confidence and reduces repair times. These manuals aren't just about fixing problems. They provide insights into preventive maintenance, helping technicians keep vehicles in tip-top shape. More uptime for a vehicle means happier clients and fewer surprise breakdowns.

Key Benefits of Auto Repair Manuals

• Detailed Instructions: Clear, step-by-step procedures make repairs efficient and straightforward.
• Accurate Information: Ensures that the latest techniques and specifications are being used.
• Preventive Maintenance Tips: Helps keep vehicles in better shape for longer.
• Enhanced Learning For New Techs: Fast-tracks new mechanics by providing valuable knowledge.

Good manuals go beyond just the basics. They often include diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes, and even tips from experienced technicians. This can be a game-changer, especially for those rare, hard-to-solve problems.

Quality manuals foster consistency. Regardless of which technician picks up the job, the repair approach remains standardized. This is essential for shops that aim to maintain a reputation for reliability.

In summary, investing time in finding and using quality car repair manuals is a no-brainer for any technician aiming for efficiency, accuracy, and safety in their work.

The Best Car Repair Manuals

1. Factory Service Manuals (FSM): The Gold Standard

When it comes to automotive repair, Factory Service Manuals (FSM) are considered the best in the market. These manuals come directly from the car manufacturer, providing the most accurate and detailed information available. FSMs are the backbone of any serious technician's toolkit. Their reliability and depth make them indispensable, ensuring that every nut and bolt is turned precisely according to manufacturer guidelines.

Pros

• Accuracy: FSMs offer the exact specs and procedures recommended by the manufacturer. It's as close as you can get to OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) specifications.
• Detail: These manuals feature in-depth diagrams, step-by-step procedures, and comprehensive troubleshooting instructions. They cover everything from basic maintenance to complex repairs.
• Comprehensive Coverage: FSMs cover all models and variations of a particular vehicle. Whether you're dealing with a base model or a fully loaded version, the FSM has you covered.
• Updates and Revisions: Manufacturers often update FSMs to include fixes for common issues, recall information, and software updates. You get the latest and greatest info.
• Online Options: Manufacturer websites, auto forums, and E-commerce platforms often offer these manuals in digital format.

Cons

• Cost: Depending on the manufacturer, these manuals can be more expensive than other options.
• Learning Curve: Factory Service Manuals are written to professionals and do not offer as much explanation as other manuals.
• Access: Online versions might require proprietary software or access through specific portals.

2. Chilton Repair Manuals: Accessible and Beginner-Friendly

Chilton auto repair manuals have earned a reputation for being highly accessible and easy-to-use, making them a favorite among DIY enthusiasts. These manuals provide detailed information that is crucial for diagnosing and repairing a wide range of vehicles. They also provide maintenance schedules to keep your cars on the road longer.

Pros

• User-Friendly: Unlike Factory Service Manuals, Chilton uses clear and easy-to-understand language making even complex repairs easier to understand and execute.
• Detailed Diagrams and Illustrations: Visual aids enhance comprehension, providing clarity on intricate parts and procedures.
• Troubleshooting Sections: Identify problems quickly with systematic guidance to diagnose and fix common issues.
• Layout: Chilton manuals are organized in a way that makes finding information quick and painless. Indexes and tabulated sections ensure that users can quickly navigate through the content without unnecessary hassle.
• Online Options: Chilton auto repair manuals can now be accessed online, providing additional convenience for tech-savvy technicians and DIYers. Benefits include instant access, search functionality and regular updates.
• Cost: Some libraries and websites feature these manuals for free making them a more budget-friendly option for DIY enthusiasts and small auto shops.

Cons

• Generic Content: While comprehensive, Chilton manuals may not be as detailed as Factory Service Manuals, especially for complex repairs. Chilton tries to cover a range of models, which can sometimes lead to less specific guidance.
• Visuals: Chilton can be stingy on visuals and may not be best for those technicians who prefer diagrams and graphics.
• Complex Repairs: May lack the depth needed for very advanced or intricate repairs that professional mechanics might require.
• New Models: May not always cover the very latest models immediately after they are released.

3. Haynes Repair Manuals: DIY Friendly Guides

Haynes auto repair manuals have been a go-to for DIY enthusiasts because they use easy-to-understand language and more visuals than other options. These guides excel in breaking down complex automotive tasks into simple, easy-to-follow steps. Each manual is backed by hands-on reviews, ensuring the steps and procedures actually work. This reliability adds a layer of trust, making these guides a dependable companion for any repair task.

Pros

• Visuals: Haynes repair manuals offer more photos and illustrations than Chilton.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Haynes auto repair manuals cover everything from maintenance and troubleshooting to engine and transmission repair. However, they do not offer as much depth as Factory Service Manuals.
• Tips and Tricks: Cost and time saving tips from experts are included in Haynes manuals to speed up any repair project.
• User-Friendly: Written in plain English with large text, headings and lie-flat design make this manual easy to read even with greasy hands.
• Digital Options: Online versions are available and feature search functionality, zoomable images and bookmarks. Haynes is typically cheaper than Factory Service Manuals.

Cons

• Shallow Content: While Haynes offers comprehensive coverage, more experienced mechanics prefer Factory Service Manuals for more specific guidance.
• Coverage for New Models: May not immediately cover the latest vehicle models or recent changes in technology.
• Specialized Repairs: Might not cover specialized or unique repairs that are specific to certain models or configurations.

4. AllDATAdiy: Online Subscription for Advanced Users

ALLDATAdiy repair manuals offer original factory repair information that professionals use, including maintenance schedules, diagrams, and repair procedures. However, they only offer an online subscription-based model with no print options. These manuals are typically preferred by professional technicians and have a larger learning curve for DIY enthusiasts.

Pros

• Factory-direct: Information is straight from the factory and has not been edited.
• Updates: Regular updates cover newer car models and reflect the latest information.
• Accessibility: Online format enables you to take this with you wherever you need it (as long as you have a stable internet connection).
• Comprehensive:  Offers in-depth diagnostic and troubleshooting guides to help identify and fix issues accurately. ALLDATAdiy provides more advanced information than Haynes or Chilton.

Cons

• Cost: ALLDATAdiy can be more expensive than other auto repair manual options because of the subscription-based pricing model.
• Learning Curve: The information can be technical and may assume a certain level of expertise, which can be challenging for novice DIYers.
• Interface: ​​The digital platform might have a learning curve, particularly for those who are more accustomed to using printed manuals.

5. E-Manuals Online: Convenience in the Digital Age

Navigating car repairs has never been simpler, thanks to the rise of e-manuals. No more flipping through bulky paperback manuals—technicians now have repair information at their fingertips, right on their devices. The world of auto repair is rapidly evolving, and e-manuals are leading the charge toward a more efficient, convenient, and eco-friendly future.

Pros

• Accessibility: Technicians can access manuals 24/7, whether in the shop or on-site at a customer's location. These manuals can be accessed digitally, printed or downloaded for offline use.
• Search Functionality: Quickly locate specific information using keyword searches, saving precious time.
• Environmentally Friendly: Reduces the need for printed materials, contributing to environmental sustainability.

• Cost: Generally less expensive than printed manuals or subscription-based services like ALLDATAdiy.

Cons

• Digital Proficiency: Users need a basic level of digital proficiency to navigate and use the manuals effectively.
• Updates: Unlike subscription services, E-Manuals may not receive regular updates, potentially leading to outdated information, especially for newer vehicle models.
• Technical Depth: E-Manuals may assume a certain level of mechanical knowledge, which can be challenging for beginners. They may lack the depth required for very advanced or specialized repairs compared to Factory Service Manuals.

6. MOTOR Auto Repair Manuals: Professional Grade Manuals

MOTOR vehicle service manuals are widely used by professional mechanics and automotive technicians. They provide extensive coverage, detailed diagnostics, and professional tools that are essential for efficient and reliable vehicle repairs. However, their cost, complexity, and professional focus may make them less suitable for casual DIY users.

Pros

• Extensive Coverage: Provides detailed repair procedures, diagnostic information, and maintenance schedules for a wide range of vehicle makes and models.
• Up-to-Date Information: Regularly updated to include the latest service bulletins, recalls, and technical updates from manufacturers.
• Print and Digital: Available in both print and digital formats, catering to different preferences and needs.
• Labor Time Guides: Includes labor time estimates for various repairs, which are useful for both professionals and customers to estimate repair costs.

Cons

• Cost: Generally more expensive than consumer-oriented manuals like Haynes or Chilton with online options having recurring subscription fees.
• Technical Language: Written for professionals, so the language and terminology may be difficult for novice or DIYers to understand.
• Professional Orientation: Primarily targeted at professional mechanics, which means it may not always consider the needs of DIY enthusiasts.
  

7. Car Repair Forums and Online Communities

Auto repair forums and communities offer a treasure trove of knowledge that complements online auto repair manuals. Technicians can gain real-world insights, share experiences, and solve unique issues by participating in these interactive platforms. Top platforms include Reddit, YouTube, FaceBook, Instagram and more.

Pros

• Build Relationships: Forums and communities provide opportunities to converse with fellow mechanics and learn from peers.
• Relevant Information: Chances are that if you have had a question that someone else has asked it before you did. Provides up-to-date information.
• First Hand Information: Learn from those in the field with first hand knowledge.
• Cost: Most car repair forums are free to join and use, making them an affordable resource for information and troubleshooting.

Cons

• Inconsistency: Each forum has different rules for members and it can take awhile to find the information you are looking for.
• Quality of Information: Information can vary in accuracy, as advice is given by users with different levels of expertise and experience.
• Standards: Solutions may vary in quality and reliability, and some suggestions may not follow professional or manufacturer guidelines.
  

How to Choose The Best Auto Repair Manual

Selecting the best auto repair manual can make a huge difference in terms of efficiency and ease of fixing vehicles. Technicians should consider a few key factors before settling on a manual:

• Coverage: Make sure the manual covers the specific make and model of the vehicle being serviced. Some manuals offer broader coverage, while others are more specialized.
• Detail: Look for manuals that provide step-by-step instructions, diagrams, and photos to make the repair process as clear as possible.
• User Reviews: Check out what other techs are saying. Real-world feedback can offer insights into the manual's reliability and usefulness.
• Updates: The automotive world changes constantly. Manuals that receive regular updates will always have the latest information and procedures.
• Cost: Consider the price but also weigh it against what you’re getting. Sometimes paying a bit more means getting a lot more in value, other times it is best to opt for a free version from a library or website.
• Accessibility: Evaluate how you will access the manual. Can it be easily viewed on a smartphone or tablet while you’re in the shop? Is there a downloadable option for offline use?

Always remember, the best manual is the one that fits your specific needs and workflow. Each repair shop is different, and what works for one might not work for another. Be strategic and thoughtful to ensure you’re choosing a resource that will serve you well in the long run.

In today’s auto repair industry, data can play a key role in a shop’s ability to repair a vehicle more efficiently and accurately. Traditionally, repair information was documented informally, often by hand on paper. Today, this information can be captured and processed electronically, leading to a significant acceleration of the repair process – and a more positive customer experience. 

The transformative power of data extends beyond streamlining individual repairs. In fact, by strategically analyzing your shop’s data over time, you can also use the information to grow your shop. However, to maximize the impact of data, it’s important to know what kind of data is most effective to use in your shop. Some of the more evergreen data – performance over time – is useful in your long-term strategy, while others, such as real-time performance metrics, are more helpful in making short-term tweaks to promote better performance. In this blog, we’ll discuss how you can distinguish between evergreen and real-time data and where you can use both to grow your shop.

Understanding Real-Time vs. Evergreen Data

Before you can decide how to use data, it’s important to understand the difference between evergreen data and real-time data. Real-time data is live data that is available as soon as it is generated. It allows you to manage your shop and respond to situations instantaneously as they happen. On the other hand, evergreen data is used in hindsight, after a timeframe has ended. Most shops use this type of data to reflect after the repairs are complete.

Both forms of data have their uses. Real-time data allows you to respond to situations as they happen in a way that helps support your business. Evergreen data helps you track long-term trends and their effects on your shop. With Tekmetric, you can leverage both types to keep your shop running smoothly. When you leverage data strategically in all forms, you can optimize your shop’s operations and processes, create an excellent customer experience and prime your business for growth.

Stay Ahead of the Curve with Real-Time Data

Real-time data enables immediate visibility into what is happening with your shop at any given time. From inventory to customer communication to repair progress, you can review different buckets within your shop and respond as the day progresses. This capability allows you to make decisions on the fly without having to wait until the end of the day, week or month to know which parts need to be ordered or how many repairs you have completed. Strategically, real-time data can be used for short-term decisions that have long-term effects, ultimately becoming an integral piece to growing the shop’s bottom line.

Examples of how you can use real-time data might include:

• Track daily progress with the shop dashboard:  Reviewing this in real-time allows you to respond to potential bottlenecks or problems that arise throughout the day. For example, if you see $15,000 in work pending approval before lunchtime, you can encourage your service writers to conduct follow-up calls to get approval and begin the work.
• Send out rainy-day coupons: Business tends to slow down on rainy days. However, if you experience this, you can respond in real-time by sending a rainy-day coupon incentivizing customers to come in for quick-turn work, like oil changes. 
• Monitor multiple shop locations with Tekmetric Multi-Shop: Multi-Shop can show you the performance of each shop at any time, from any location – so you can make decisions that support the strengths of all your locations. For example, you might move a car from a very busy, overrun location to another, slower location. Make sure you return the vehicle to the original location for easy customer pickup to maintain your customer experience. This maximizes workflow between high and low volume locations.

Analyze, Determine and Predict Trends with Evergreen Data

In addition to real-time data, you can leverage evergreen data by analyzing trends and your shop’s data for predictive forecasting. One of evergreen data’s biggest advantages is that it captures a period of time without the need for constant refreshing. This can help you review your shop’s performance over longer periods – year-over-year, month-to-month or quarterly – so you can implement long-term solutions to promote growth.

Examples of using evergreen data include:

• Create more business with declined jobs: When you want to influence cash flow for the coming weeks or months, you can follow up on previously declined jobs, such as an oil change or tire rotation. This customer-centric approach can not only build your customer relationships, but also drive business during a slow month.
• Create value with Shared Customer History: You can share your customer’s history across multiple locations, bringing extra value through this evergreen data. For example, if a customer asks when they had their last oil change, your service advisor will be able to pull that information within seconds – no matter which location the customer last visited.
• Create custom financial reports to track shop performance: Tekmetric’s financial reports give you the power and flexibility to create a report that tracks what’s important to you, without any extra noise, and make decisions based on past performance. For example, you can utilize the Time Period Configuration feature to compare data from the previous year or another custom time period, identifying bottlenecks and adjusting your strategy accordingly.
• Track month-over-month trends with comparative reporting: Pay attention to the trends that occur each month in comparison to the same time frame in previous years. This will allow you to spot trends and respond accordingly, such as preparing for a particularly busy season or implementing strategies to create more work in a slower season.

The Price of Ignoring Data

Time is money. Evergreen and real-time data allow you to manage your shop’s time and resources in the most efficient manner to generate profit while providing an excellent customer experience. To grow your shop, ensure you are using both forms of data to your advantage. Combining evergreen data’s longevity with real-time data can lead you to a multi-faceted business strategy, creating a customer-centric approach that ultimately generates more cash flow, profit and growth.

Transparency within the auto repair invoice process goes a long way. Most customer will feel uncertain about approving expensive repairs if they don't truly understand the need for them. That's why it's up to your shop to foster a trusting relationship by clearly showing customers the issue, and the need for a repair.

The right invoicing system will improve your shop’s workflow, save your team time, enhance your customers’ experience, and provide you with peace of mind.

Here’s how Tekmetric’s Cloud-Based Shop Management System provides seamless shop management that leads to frictionless payment processing:

• A service advisor can create a repair order and dispatch it to a technician to run a digital vehicles inspection (DVI).
• The technician conducts the inspection.
• The service advisor sends the customer a DVI report, which will outline all the findings.
• The customer can approve or decline individual line items on the repair order directly from their smartphone.
• Once the customer finishes scrolling through the estimate, designating the jobs they approve and decline, your shop has the go-ahead to begin the repair(s).
• Once repairs are complete, there’s a digital record of exactly what the customer approved. That way, when it’s time to pay, there are no surprises.
• Once the customer pays with their preferred method, they can look back over the receipt—from their computer or smartphone—and feel confident that your shop did exactly what you said you’d do.

After a job is completed and payment is received, all the details from the invoice and repair order become part of your reports and customer history in Tekmetric.

Tekmetric’s cloud-based automotive invoice software has designed the entire process to reduce bottlenecks, build trust, and ensure that customers know exactly what to expect.

By moving smoothly from one step to the next, your team will be able to boost their efficiency, manage their workflow, and spend the extra time building rapport with customers and getting their cars back to good working order.

The features and capabilities found in modern repair shop software will fall into two main categories:

• Features that enable you and your team to work more efficiently
• Features that enable you and your team to enhance the customer experience

Ultimately, the modern features we’re about to dive into will free up your time as a shop owner. Instead of stressing over small day-to-day details, you’ll be able to focus more on the high-level aspects of advancing your business.

A standard automotive repair order form usually isn’t more than a page or two. It contains vital information like the work to be done on a vehicle, any parts to be ordered, and a cost estimate of all the services to be provided.

While traditional auto repair order forms have served as a reliable method for managing repair orders for many years, it is becoming increasingly clear that they are no longer the most efficient or effective option available.

In fact, there are several ways in which the use of manual auto repair order forms may be limiting the potential of your shop.

Within an auto repair shop, data serves many functions: streamlining day-to-day operations, helping service advisors and tracking a shop’s cash flow. But you can also harness the power of data to plan for the future. In fact, strategically leveraging data can help you determine when it is time to open a new location. Think of it as your roadmap to multi-shop success. Data helps you every step of the way, from optimizing your existing business, to creating a plan for a new shop, to maximizing workflow across all locations.

Looking at the Big Picture: The New Location Roadmap

When you start planning for a new location, your strategy should prioritize the big picture of your business, allowing you to strategically determine the process for opening the next shop. Key metrics and analytics can help you monitor your business performance and plan for both the long- and short-term future. Whether you are expanding for the first time or the tenth, leveraging data can help make the process smooth, strategic and simple. It’s as straightforward as 1… 2…3: 

1. Getting Started: Make Your First Location the Best It Can Be

Before opening a new location, ensure your existing shop is optimized. Your goal is to maximize efficiency and productivity, so you can replicate the process at a new location. Take a good, hard look at your numbers, and be honest with yourself about your business performance. Some key questions to ask include:

• What are your ARO and car count, and can you increase them?
• How many repeat customers do you have versus new customers?
• How effective are your mechanics at completing their work? 
• Will adding another mechanic or bay be enough to support my current levels of business growth?
• How frequently are customers approving your full estimate or returning for follow-up work on previously declined jobs?

Once you have determined that your existing business is performing at the highest level possible, you are ready for the next step.

2. Creating a Plan: Determine Criteria for Your New Location 

As you look to add a location, it is important to identify your business needs and the assets you have available. Data from your existing location(s) is key to this step. Not only can you analyze business performance to determine your financial ability to open a new shop, but you can also identify opportunities with new customers to target or niche services to offer.   

For example, if your existing location is overwhelmed with customers seeking same day or next day service, another shop might be the solution. Or, if you are targeting customers in a different area of town, building or buying another location closer to the population you are targeting might draw them in. Here are some questions to ask when determining the criteria for a new location:

• Have I maximized the efficiency of my existing location(s)?
• Can I afford to build a brand-new shop, or should I buy an existing business?
• What is my close rate at my existing location(s)?
• What demographic am I targeting, and how can I meet their needs with this new location?

3. Setting Up for Success: Use Tekmetric Multi-Shop to Maximize Workflow 

Once you have multiple locations, it is critical that you maximize workflow between all locations. You can compare locations using Tekmetric Multi-Shop to monitor performance, track key metrics and determine each location’s strengths and weaknesses. A good question to ask yourself is: how can I leverage each location’s strengths to support continued business growth? 

First, ensure that you have replicated the optimized processes from your original location(s) at the new shop. You have worked hard to ensure your business was performing at the highest level possible before opening a new location – make sure to keep that momentum moving!

Second, play to the strengths of each location so they support each other. For example, determine which locations are high versus low volume to maximize your technicians’ time at all locations. If one shop is a high-volume location overwhelmed with work, you can leverage a lower volume location by moving some cars there for same-day repairs. Just don’t forget to move the cars back to the original location for the customer’s convenience! 

The idea of multiple auto repair shop locations can seem daunting, but by maximizing your data, you can simplify the process to ensure you are prepared for the next step. First, put all your efforts into running a top-tier business with your existing location(s). Once you are satisfied with your performance, utilize data to establish a clear plan for opening your next location. Finally, use tools like Tekmetric Multi-Shop to maximize workflow and leverage each location’s strengths to support the overall business. This approach will maximize your productivity and efficiency across all your locations, increasing your overall bottom line and keeping customers satisfied.