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.
Show Your Customers the Problem with Digital Vehicle Inspections
First and foremost is perhaps the most obvious, but digital vehicle inspections are so powerful they're always worth mentioning.
Implementing digital vehicle inspections into your day-to-day shop regimen will help you show customers the severity of specific repairs. During the inspection, service advisors can send videos and photos to the customer to show them any maintenance issues, build trust, and either sell that work or capture it as a declined job.
As we all know, a picture speaks a thousand words. With digital vehicle inspections, you can write a story for the customer using pictures and explanations of any vehicle issues your technicians found. We've seen Tekmetric users on average include 5 images within their DVIs, and up to 20 and more images for really large repair orders.
Instantly Text Message Your Customers
Modern features help your shop provide a modern experience, and that starts with communication. You don't have to waste valuable time dealing with scattered, inconsistent customer communication when we have modern tools available.
Cloud-based shop management systems let managers and service writers easily communicate with customers without missing a beat with real-time texting directly from your shop's landline phone number. It all happens on your end within Tekmetric, along-side crucial customer information, inspection findings, parts availability, and so much more.
Not to mention shops can even let their customers pay for their repairs through a text message, no matter where they are. We've even seen shops setup a contact-less drop-off and pick-up process with an old-school key-drop system, and modern shop management systems that let service writers text and receive payments anywhere, anytime.
Offer Consistent Service Customers Can Trust with Canned jobs
Shops that can simplify workflows and standardize their processes will get cars in and out quicker, free up their time to provide a better customer experience, and can focus on keeping operations flowing smoothly.
Canned jobs are pre-saved jobs that include labor and parts associated with common repair work done. We recommend you build canned jobs for services you provide frequently in your shop to save your service writers time when generating repair orders.
Tekmetric’s BG Canned Jobs gives your repair shop the ability to provide customers with high-quality maintenance service backed by BG’s industry-leading products.
Tekmetric already empowers your team to assemble ROs in minutes with integrated labor guides, canned jobs, and customizable parts orders. But with BG products, you can ensure that your customer will be getting safe, reliable, and high quality products every time a power steering, transmission, and brake RO is created.
Transform Your Shop with Tekmetric
Tekmetric’s features empower auto repair shops to improve customer transparency, streamline communication, provide flexible payment options, and simplify the payment process.
And this helps build customer trust, enhance satisfaction, and drive more repair orders. By utilizing Tekmetric's comprehensive features, auto shops optimize operations, deliver exceptional service, and cultivate long-term customer relationships.
So when you're wondering what's going on with that SUV sitting in your shop's pickup lot for the last two weeks, you can see if it is awaiting customer approval or if parts are still on the way.
Within Tekmetric, Repair Orders flow through your Job Board, visually representing your shop's overall workflow in three columns: “Estimates,” “Work-In-Progress” and “Completed.”
The idea is for service advisors, general managers, shop owners, and even Technicians, to gain a birds-eye view of everything happening in your shop with just a quick glance. Everyone is responsible for their tasks, every step of the process is accounted for, and it can all easily be tracked and managed in a simplified workflow.
We also understand that some shops may want a little extra flexibility, and maybe there’s some extra level of detail you would like represented visually on your job board. That’s where Tekmetric’s RO Labels come in.
When he set off to create Tekmetric, founder and CEO Sunil Patel had an ace up his sleeve: experience running his independent auto repair shop.
Running a repair shop is the background of everything we do. It's that partnership between Tekmetric and the auto repair shops that leverage the platform daily that enable us to build the absolute best tool for the job: running an independent auto repair shop.
So we set out on a mission to deepen our connection with our customers and understand each shop's unique challenges and wins by visiting as many customers as possible.
We wanted to understand the unique challenges and victories each shop faces, to truly deepen our connection with you. The results? It blew us away. Your stories, your shops and your teams are the heart of what we do. You inspire us every day to provide the best solutions for the independent auto repair industry.
Tekmetric's Customer Obsession
Whether your shop is general repair, like brakes, fluids and check engine lights, or a specialized business focused on older European cars, there’s one thing that’s always the same: the amazing, critical work your shop does to get people back on the road!
And it’s your amazing shops that use Tekmetric that make all this possible. Our customers' valuable feedback is what helps us develop a better platform, and the proof is in the pudding.
No one knows what it takes to run an independent auto repair shop better than the teams that rely on Tekmetric to power their operations.
Here's what we heard from shops and why they love Tekmetric:
Tekmetric's ease of use and simplicity in running your shop
Everything you need to run your shop is organized, tracked, and maintained in one tool.
Whether you're a shop owner peaking into real-time performance reports or analyzing shop trends, a general manager ensuring cars flow quickly and efficiently through your shops, a service advisor supporting customers, or even a technician fixing cars, Tekmetric can help your shop operate like a well-oiled inline 6.
Tekmetric empowers shop to grow and reach their next level
We constantly hear how shop owners have leveraged Tekmetric to grow their business in ways they never expected.
Whether that means opening and managing multiple locations, simply adding a few new bays moving into a larger location, or even expanding your operations to service more customers, Tekmetric's simplicity and complete control over your shop makes it easy to track, plan, and grow.
Tekmetric's commitment to transparency and communication
Because we're so customer-obsessed, we're always here to help! As a cloud-based solution, Tekmetric helps run your shop by doing a lot of the operational "heavy lifting," so to speak.
Not only do we provide the right tools for the job, but we're here to partner with your shop. Our support doesn't end, and we're always a quick message or phone call away, anytime you need support!
Our Commitment to Shops Like Yours
Because we're here to help your great shop get even better, we're always open to hearing how we can make Tekmetric even better!
The automotive industry is one of the largest and most stable sectors in the U.S. economy, and becoming an automotive mechanic offers a rewarding, hands-on career path with plenty of opportunities for advancement.
Whether you're interested in working at local repair shops, car dealerships, or even starting your own garage, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
What do mechanics do?
Automotive technicians are responsible for diagnosing, maintaining, and repairing vehicles of all types—from compact cars to light trucks and SUVs. Their work involves inspecting brake systems, replacing worn parts, and performing routine services like oil changes. Many mechanics work in repair shops or at car dealerships, but others prefer to start their own repair shop.
Mechanics work with a variety of tools and diagnostic equipment. They often use computerized systems to identify issues and ensure the car is functioning properly. In today’s rapidly evolving automotive industry, mechanics are expected to stay current with new technologies, especially in hybrid and electric vehicles.
Below, you will find practical steps you can take today to start your path to becoming an auto mechanic.
6 Steps to becoming a car mechanic
Starting a new career path can be challenging, so we outlined 6 practical steps you can take to jump-start your career.
1. Do your homework
Before you start your career, it is wise to consider if this is the right job for you. Will it pay enough to support your needs? Will you be able to keep up with the physical demands of the job? These are just two of the questions you need to ask yourself before moving forward.
How Much Do Automotive Mechanics Make?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for automotive service technicians and mechanics in 2024 was approximately $49,670 per year, or about $23.88 per hour. However, salaries can vary based on several factors such as:
Location: Mechanics in cities or states with a higher cost of living tend to earn more.
Certifications: Holding ASE certifications or specializations can boost income.
Experience: Entry-level technicians typically earn less than seasoned professionals.
Industry: Working at car dealerships or as a mobile mechanic can pay differently than working in a small auto repair shop.
2. Training and education
Pursuing the right education, certifications, and training programs will set you on the right path to a successful career. Each path has unique benefits but it is best to select the path that will help you achieve your career goals.
Do I need to go to school to become a mechanic?
While formal training is not always required, it is highly recommended. Employers in both independent repair shops and dealerships prefer candidates with a solid educational background and certifications. If you opt not to pursue formal education, you will need to find a personal connection or an apprenticeship program where you can learn while working.
How long will it take to become a mechanic?
The timeline to becoming an auto mechanic depends on the education path you choose. In total, it may take anywhere from 6 months to 4 years to become job-ready, depending on the path and certifications you pursue. Here are the most common routes:
High School Diploma or GED: Most mechanic jobs require at least a high school diploma or equivalent.
Vocational Schools or Trade Schools: These typically offer certificate programs lasting 6 months to 1 year, giving students a fast track into entry-level roles.
Community College or Associate Degree: Completing an associate degree in an automotive technology program usually takes about 2 years and provides a deeper understanding of vehicle systems.
Apprenticeships: These allow students to earn while they learn and may last 2 to 4 years.
On-the-Job Training: Some auto mechanics begin their careers with no formal education and learn through hands-on experience at a repair shop or dealership.
3. Complete certifications
The most respected credential in the field is the ASE certification, offered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. Mechanics can earn ASE certification in areas such as engine repair, brake systems, electrical systems, automatic transmission, and heating/air conditioning.
To become ASE certified, you’ll need at least two years of work experience or a combination of formal training and on-the-job training. You’ll also need to pass one or more certification exams. Mechanics who pass tests in all major areas and have the required work experience can earn the title of Master Technician.
Being ASE certified shows employers and customers that you're a professional who meets industry standards. Many employers pay higher wages to certified auto mechanics, and some dealerships require ASE credentials for certain positions.
4. Prepare for your interview
Finding the right shop to start your career at can be a daunting task. It is often easiest to start at an express shop so you can get your feet wet before pursuing your career goals. Once you have applied to a shop, it is time to start preparing for the interview.
Mechanic Job Interview Questions
Whether you're aiming for a position at a dealership or local garage, be prepared for a formal interview. Here are common questions you may encounter:
Tell me about yourself and your experience as an automotive technician.
Why do you want to work for our company/shop?
How do you stay up to date with new automotive technologies and repair techniques?
What certifications do you currently hold (ASE, manufacturer-specific, etc.)?
Are you comfortable working weekends, evenings, or overtime if needed?
When answering, emphasize your hands-on training, work experience, and your commitment to continuous improvement. Don’t forget to highlight soft skills like teamwork, communication, and adaptability.
5. Utilize modern tools
The modern repair shop has embraced new technology to help improve efficiencies and revenue. Strive to have a solid understanding of modern diagnostic tools, apps, and software so you can hit the ground running. Another way to stand out to your future employer is to already have experience with their shop management system, so they don’t have to train you as much.
6. Get your hands dirty
Let the fun begin! Once you have landed your first job, learn to fail fast and ask questions as you meet more experienced technicians. Ask yourself each week if you are enjoying your job and if you think this is still the right career path for you. Don’t forget to make connections in the industry to boost your network and career path.
Final Thoughts
A career as an auto technician is more than just a job—it’s a skilled trade that keeps America moving. Whether you're working on a simple oil change or a complex engine repair, you'll be solving real-world problems and helping people stay safe on the road. With growing demand for mechanics who can service modern vehicles equipped with sophisticated electronic systems, the field is only becoming more essential.
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