How to Run a Successful Auto Repair Shop (5 Step Guide)

|

May 22, 2023

|

Read time: 3 min

When thinking about how to run an auto repair shop, we might start by thinking about a well-managed football team. The different players know what they’re responsible for, show up to accomplish their jobs, put their best effort into everything they do, and perform their best as a team. Players have each others’ backs both on the field and off the field. They can think on the fly, and move as a unit toward the end zone.

How do your players work together? When mechanic shops assemble the right team, devise the right strategy, and run the right plays, they can win, too. Service advisors can stay informed about what’s going on with every repair order at any given moment in time, switch easily between tasks even when the shop is busy, and provide excellent customer service. Technicians are able to focus on their work and spend more time turning wrenches. And customers? They’ll get their cars back fast and drive away with a good impression of your shop.

Shop owners who think more deeply about how to manage a mechanic shop are rewarded for their efforts. Well-managed shops see exponential returns. Stellar team performance leads to customer satisfaction and repeat business. The more successful your shop, the more you can invest back into your team, continuing the cycle of success for all involved.

Leading an Auto Repair Shop: Getting Started

Effectively leading an auto repair shop means focusing on:

  1. Recruitment and hiring
  2. Management
  3. Team motivation
  4. Employee pay
  5. Mentorship
  6. Work-life balance for everyone on the team

If you’re a long-time shop owner who has been helping people get back on the road again for a while now, you may have nodded your head while reading that list—management challenges are common for every thriving shop, and this article may still be a good refresher on how to improve management at your shop.

If you’re just starting out as a shop owner, try not to get stressed out reading that list. We know it’s a lot, and you don’t have to tackle everything at once. In fact, we recommend taking things step by step. Focus on the basics in each management area and refine things along the way. For example, you don’t need to create a top-notch employee mentorship program right out of the gate. In the early days, you should spend more time on recruitment and hiring, just like a football team that knows it needs to upgrade its scouting and drafting process before it can build a great roster.

As for you, the coach: No first-time football coach walks onto the field with every play they’ll ever run already drawn up. They have to learn about all of their players, the culture of the organization, and how to best motivate their team members. Only then can the coach put the gears in motion for the team to grow as a group and smoothly work together, while building everyone up.

Ok, coach! Here are the management plays on how to run a mechanic shop that you should prioritize when you’re first getting started. Let’s huddle up and look over the “How to manage a mechanic shop” playbook.

1. Coach Your Team Members to Get Customers Up and Running Fast

The day your first customer walks through the door, you want your team to be prepared to quickly get that customer’s repair set up. Coach your service advisors and team members on:

  • Creating repair orders: Service advisors need to be able to create repair orders that anyone on the team can quickly access.
  • Running inspections: Your mechanics need a straightforward process for running accurate vehicle inspections.
  • Putting together and sharing estimates: Your service advisors need a simple way to take the tech team’s findings, create easy-to-follow estimates, and share those estimates with customers.
  • Receiving customer authorizations: Service advisors need a clear-cut way to get customers’ repair authorizations so they can then communicate that to technicians, and technicians can begin work.

When you coach your team on the fundamentals, they’ll be able to get customers back on the road as soon as possible.

The Play: Digital Vehicle Inspections and Estimates

Digital vehicle inspections and estimates are a touchdown with customers. Tekmetric’s DVIs put technicians ahead of the game; they can clearly communicate inspection findings by entering key details, attaching photos and videos of their findings, and indicating the severity of each finding via a color-coded system.

Then, service advisors can build estimates that precisely detail the costs and show customers exactly what work needs to get done, and why. Once a service advisor sends an estimate, Tekmetric will add the label “Pending Authorization” to the relevant repair order. Tekmetric gives customers the ability to digitally authorize repair work right from their smartphones, so your technicians can get to work ASAP.

DVIs and estimates score points with customers by showing them that your process is transparent and trustworthy.

2. Power Frictionless Collaboration On Your Team

Can your team execute plays on the field? To win the game each day, your team members need to work in formation—understanding expectations, clearly communicating, and giving each other necessary updates. Your service advisors and technicians have to huddle together, tackle their responsibilities, and get vehicles back to customers fast.

Many auto repair teams collaborate in “analog” ways. For example, service advisors might jot down technicians’ “to-dos” on a whiteboard. Or, they might leave their workstations to nudge technicians for repair status updates. These “analog” methods are relatively easy to set up, but over time, they can lead to some challenges for your team. How? It interrupts your team members’ flow states in the middle of the game.

Put yourself in their cleats. If you started your career in the Auto Repair Industry as a mechanic, you probably valued being able to completely focus on the task at hand, whether it was an oil change or a more complicated repair. If one of your service advisor teammates walked up to you to ask you how much longer the repair would take, you’d have to stop what you’re doing, give them the update (and possibly entertain the conversation going on a tangent), and then resettle into your work. You had to regain your focus again and may have had to stay at work longer than you expected.

As far as your service advisor teammate, they lost time and focus, too! After all, they had to leave their workstation to see what was up with you in the back of the shop. A customer might have walked up to their desk and got stuck waiting. That wait probably didn’t bode well for business!

When you give your employees the right equipment, they won’t have to keep starting and stopping their tasks. They can check-in and communicate at their own pace from wherever they are in the shop. They can pass the ball back and forth as needed and intercept tasks amidst the flow of the shop.

The Play: The Job Board and Tech Board

Tekmetric’s Job Board and the Tech Board equip your team members with the ultimate clarity on who’s responsible for what, how far along repairs are, and more—all while removing the need for extraneous exchanges.

The Job Board has two views and breaks down the repair process into three key categories: Estimates, Work-In-Progress, and Completed. Each repair order can be viewed in a column or a list depending on the preferences of your service advisors.

Here are some of the key details every service advisor at your shop can get via one screen:

  • Color-coded labels that indicate which repair orders are still pending customer authorization, have not yet started, are in-progress, need parts ordered, are ready to post, and more
  • Repair order notes
  • Promised time out
  • How far along each repair order is
  • The technician associated with each repair order
  • Whether the customer for each repair order is waiting at the shop or dropped off their vehicle and left (via icons)

With this information, service advisors can keep work flowing.

Tekmetric also makes it easy for service advisors to manage technicians’ workloads. The Tech Board has one column on the left side that lists out all repair orders that need a technician assigned. The remaining columns show what individual technicians have on their plates. With one glance, service advisors can see which repairs need to be assigned and which technicians have the availability to take on those repairs. If a repair order is too big for one technician, or if different technicians have specialized knowledge that can help finish a job, service advisors can split up the work within a repair order. When mechanics look at the Tech Board, they’ll know exactly what they’re responsible for.

With the Job Board and Tech Board, you won’t have to fret about how to run an auto repair shop. Your shop and your team will run like a well-oiled machine!

3. Practice Great Customer Communication With Your Team

When customers walk into your shop, the faster someone from your team greets them, the better. According to a 2021 study by J.D. Power, customer satisfaction scores “decline when customers wait more than three minutes before they’re acknowledged.”

Good customer communication should exist throughout every stage of the repair process. For instance, when customers leave your shop during repairs, have your service advisors give them regular updates. When they come to pick up their vehicles and pay, give them a stress-free check-out process.

It’s on you as the leader of your team to train your players on the essentials of great customer service, like:

  • Greeting customers and checking them in
  • Responding quickly if a customer asks to speak to a higher-up
  • Addressing customers’ frequently asked questions
  • Updating customers on the status of their repairs  
  • Processing customers’ payments and checking them out with minimal hassles

If you were previously a service advisor or technician, speak to your team members about your own experiences and lessons learned having interacted with customers in the past! Your experience in the shop can pay off for the next generation of Auto Repair Professional all-stars.

Need more extensive coaching for your team? You may want to consider hiring an external coach, enrolling your employees in a specialized course, or upgrading their customer communication equipment. There’s an abundance of coaching programs out there focused on all aspects of how to run an auto repair shop.

The Play: Run the Ball Downfield with Tekmessage and Tekmerchant

Tekmessage and Tekmerchant simply the customer communication and checkout processes for your team and your customers.

As we saw with the Job Board, service advisors can quickly see how far along each repair is. Once they have that information, service advisors can then use Tekmetric’s true two-way texting tool, Tekmessage, to update customers. Service advisors can message customers directly from Tekmetric, and the resulting message will show up on customers’ smartphones just like a regular text message. Customers will even be able to respond to that text message just like any other text.

Eventually, when the repair is completed, service advisors can message customers that it’s time to check out. Tekmetric offers a tool, Tekmerchant, for a text-to-pay check-out process. Service advisors can text or email customers their invoices, and customers can pay from wherever they are, using their smartphones, tablets, or computers. They don’t have to wait in line at your shop to hand over their credit card for processing. Instead, they can pay on their own time! If they want to pay while catching the last few minutes of the fourth quarter on a TV in the waiting area, they can do that.

Tekmessage and Tekmerchant aren’t going to interact with your customers for you. Your service advisors still have to exhibit excellent customer service in their interactions. But these two tools facilitate and train their ability to give excellent customer service by minimizing and even eliminating common complications such as dropped calls and broken credit card machines. Combine Tekmessage and Tekmerchant with the world-class customer service you’re already providing, and you’ll jumpstart even more business!

4. Mentor Your Employees to Reach Their Full Potential

No shop owner learns to run a successful shop on their own. Along the way, they got advice from other shop owners and might have even had a mentor by joining an industry coaching group or even forming a connection with a former boss or someone else in the industry.  No matter what form that mentorship took, it helped those shop owners level up and consistently become better at what they do.

You can do the same for your team, empowering them to take greater leaps in their careers. When employees feel supported at work, they’re likely to stay, improving your shop’s employee retention. Long-time employees know your shop well; they’re accustomed to how things run. When it comes to figuring out how to run an auto repair shop, they don’t need as much direction on the field as newer team members.

Keeping team members longer also builds strong camaraderie, creating a cohesive team spirit at your shop. Newer team members start to pick up tricks from employees who have been around a while on how to make the day run smoothly. And, when your team gets along and works together efficiently, you can have peace of mind and turn your focus to making big picture decisions about your shop.

A large part of being a good mentor or coach involves giving useful, actionable feedback to your employees that helps them strengthen their skills and shore up any weaknesses. For example, if you notice that one of your service advisors is hitting super high sales numbers, you can praise them and encourage them to share their tips with their team members. If you notice that one of your technicians is taking slightly longer to complete repairs than their peers, you can pair them up with the fastest technician on your team so they can speed up.

The Play: Give Effective Feedback With Real-Time Reports

Tekmetric measures key areas of your team’s performance, compiling that data into real-time employee reports:

  • The Realtime Service Writer Report shows you the repair order sales and hours associated with each service advisor on your team.
  • The Realtime Technician Report shows you the repair order sales and hours associated with each technician on your team.
  • The Technician Hours Report shows you each technician’s total billed time, total actual time, and car count. Most importantly, this report shows you the total efficiency of each technician and the total efficiency of your tech team.

Each of these reports are customizable by time period. For example, you can review your tech team’s efficiency over the last month or last quarter to build the most effective possible game plan for completing repair work. Got a technician with a lower efficiency score? Pair them up with other mechanics who know how to complete quality work at a fast pace.

Remember to remain empathetic when you’re giving each team member feedback and showing them their stats. Deliver the feedback in a professional manner. Along with pointing out what needs improvement, you should also point out what the employee is doing well. Research has shown that the highest performing teams have a 5.6 to 1 ratio of positive to negative feedback comments.

5. Check In

One of the best practices for how to manage a mechanic shop doesn’t involve any fancy tools or processes. It just comes down to checking in with your team members to see how they’re doing.

You can ask employees, “Hey, how are you?” when you cross paths with them at the shop, regularly host one-on-ones, and organize weekly team huddles. We recommend doing a combination of these types of check-in activities to gauge how your employees are doing. You never know what’s happening with people, and it can be hard for employees to put on their game face when there’s trouble at home. For instance, if you ask an employee, “Hey, how are you doing?” in passing, they might not feel comfortable telling you, “Well, my dog got an ear infection and I’m stressed out” or “My mortgage application got rejected.” In contrast, they might feel comfortable telling you those things in a one-on-one meeting.

Granted, not every employee will be open about what’s going on with them, and that’s ok! You shouldn’t pressure them. What you should do is show them with your actions that if they do want to tell you what’s going on, they can freely do so.

Check-ins will also help you increase employee engagement, growing your shop. When employees feel like they “belong” at work, they’re three-and-a-half times “more likely to contribute to their fullest potential.”

These regular updates will help create a healthier work environment for everyone at your shop, one with mutual respect and understanding. Your team members will know that you’re not just barking plays from the sidelines—you’re taking an active interest in them as individuals.

FAQ

similar articles

When it comes to automotive repair, a strong reputation and reliable service are undoubtedly key. But even the best mechanics can benefit from a classic, often-overlooked tool: the business card. In a digital age, you might think these small pieces of stationery are obsolete, but for automotive professionals, they remain a powerful and tangible marketing asset.

The Importance of Business Cards for Mechanics

In the fast-paced world of car repair, a memorable impression can make all the difference. While digital marketing has its place, a physical business card provides a direct and immediate connection.

Auto repair business cards are more than just contact information; they're a miniature billboard for your brand. They convey professionalism and demonstrate that you're prepared and serious about your work. They also serve as a constant reminder of your services, keeping your shop top-of-mind long after an initial interaction. Think of them as a portable advertisement that can be tucked into a wallet, glove compartment, or on a refrigerator, ensuring your contact details are readily available when a customer needs them most.

Beyond initial customer acquisition, automotive business cards can play a crucial role in customer retention. Many shops use them as a simple way to provide their phone number and address, but they can also be integrated into loyalty programs or used to promote new products or services. They are a professional touchpoint that reinforces your brand identity and solidifies trust.

Best Practices for Designing an Automotive Business Card

Designing an effective automotive business card requires a blend of aesthetics and practicality. It's not just about looking good; it's about being functional and memorable.

Brand identity: Does your shop specialize in general automotive repair, or do you focus on specific services like tires or diagnostics? Your business card design should reflect this. If you're known for cutting-edge technology, a more modern and sleek design might be more appropriate.

Quality is king: A flimsy, poorly printed card immediately sends the wrong message. Invest in high-quality cardstock with a professional finish, such as matte or gloss. Metal business cards are becoming more popular and offer a way to stand out. Utilize full-color designs that match your branding.

Simplicity is key: While it might be tempting to cram every service you offer onto your card, resist the urge. An overcrowded card is difficult to read and less impactful. Prioritize essential information and leave plenty of white space.

Stay unique: In a sea of generic business card templates, what will make your car business card stand out? Perhaps a unique shape, a subtle texture, or a clever use of imagery related to your specific automotive repair niche. Don't be afraid to be creative, but always keep clarity and readability in mind.

Utilize both sides: Remember that you have two sides of the business card to work with. Typically, the front is best for contact information, and the back can be a call to action or QR code.

Key Elements to Include in Your Automotive Business Card

A well-designed automotive business card is more than just a pretty face; it's a functional tool that provides all the necessary information for a customer to connect with you. Here are the essential elements to include:

  • Your Shop's Logo and Name: This is your primary brand identifier. Your logo should be clear and recognizable, and your shop's name should be prominently displayed.
  • Your Name and Title: While not strictly necessary for every card, including the owner's or a key auto mechanic's name and title adds a personal touch.
  • Contact Information: This is arguably the most crucial element. Include your phone number, email address, and your physical address. Make sure these are easy to read and accurate.
  • Website Address: In today's digital world, a strong online presence is vital. Include your website URL so customers can easily learn more about your services, read testimonials, or even schedule appointments online.
  • Services Offered: You don't need a comprehensive list, but a few key services can help customers understand your specialty. For example, "Engine Diagnostics," "Brake Service," or "Oil Change."
  • Call to Action: While not always a direct call to action, you can subtly encourage action. For example, if you offer warranties, you might mention "Backed by our 12-month warranty."
  • QR Code: This is a modern and highly effective addition. A QR code can link directly to your website, online scheduling system, or a map to your shop. This makes it incredibly convenient for customers to access more information without having to manually type in URLs.

Tek-Tip: Need help designing your automotive business card? Our free auto repair business card generator can help.

Beyond these essentials, consider adding a tagline that encapsulates your brand's unique selling proposition. For instance, "Your Trusted Partner in Automotive Care" or "Quality Repairs, Unbeatable Service." Some shops even include a small area for appointment reminders on the back, transforming the card into a dual-purpose tool.

Mechanic business card templates

To help you get started with your business card design, we have included some inspiration below.

Auto repair business card ideas

Auto repair business card template.
Auto repair business card example.
Auto repair business card idea.

Tire shop business card ideas

Tire shop business card idea.
Tire shop business card template.
Tire shop business card example.

Mobile mechanic business card ideas

Mobile mechanic business card idea.
Mobile mechanic business card template.
Mobile mechanic business card example.

Which Software is Best for Designing Business Cards?

You don't need to be a graphic designer to create professional-looking automotive business cards. Several software options, ranging from beginner-friendly to professional-grade, can help you bring your vision to life.

For those on a budget or looking for a quick solution, online business card templates from platforms like Canva, Vistaprint, or Zazzle are excellent choices. These platforms offer a vast library of pre-designed business card templates specifically for the automotive industry. They provide intuitive drag-and-drop interfaces, making it easy to customize text, colors, and even upload your logo. They often integrate directly with printing services, simplifying the entire workflow.

For more advanced users who want complete control over their business card design, professional graphic design software like Adobe Illustrator or Adobe Photoshop are the industry standards. These programs offer unparalleled flexibility and precision, allowing you to create truly custom designs from scratch. However, they come with a steeper learning curve and a subscription cost.

Regardless of the software you choose, ensure it allows you to export your design in a high-quality format suitable for professional printing, often a vector file (like AI, EPS, or PDF) or a high-resolution JPG/PNG.

Final thoughts

In an increasingly digital world, the humble business card for an automotive repair shop remains a powerful and tangible marketing tool. It's not just about sharing contact information; it's about making a lasting impression, reinforcing your brand, and fostering trust with your customers.

By adhering to best practices for designing an automotive business card, including all key elements, and leveraging the right software, you can create a mechanic business card that truly represents the quality and professionalism of your shop. Whether you're a seasoned auto mechanic or just starting an auto repair business, don't underestimate the power of a well-designed, high-quality business card.

Auto Repair Shop Business Cards (Ideas & Templates)

June 29, 2025

Read time: 3 min

read more

In today's fast-paced digital world, connecting with your customers isn't just about turning wrenches; it's about building relationships. For the automotive industry, email marketing can be a powerful marketing tool.

A well-executed email marketing strategy can transform your auto repair business, driving new customers through your doors and fostering customer loyalty among your existing clients.

What is Email Marketing?

At its core, email marketing is a form of digital communication that enables businesses to send messages directly to a group of people via email. Think of it as a personalized billboard delivered straight to your customer's inbox.

Unlike broad social media blasts or impersonal direct mail, email marketing offers a unique opportunity to tailor your message to specific segments of your email list, making your communications more relevant and impactful. It's a key component of any effective automotive repair marketing plan.

Why Auto Repair Shops Should Use Email Marketing

Many auto shop owners might wonder if email marketing is truly worth the effort. The answer is a resounding "yes!" In an industry built on trust and relationships, email marketing serves as an invaluable tool for nurturing customer relationships. Here are some of the top benefits of email marketing:

1. Cost-effective

Email marketing is very cost-effective. Compared to traditional advertising methods, the return on investment (ROI) for email marketing is often significantly higher. You're reaching a targeted audience that has already shown some interest in your services, whether by providing their email address at your shop or through an online signup.

2. Top of mind

Email marketing will keep your auto repair shop top of mind. Your customers have busy lives, and car maintenance often slips their minds until a problem arises. Regular, helpful emails ensure that when they do need service, your shop is the first one they think of. This is crucial for customer retention.

3. Customer Retention

By staying in touch, you remind existing customers about upcoming service needs and show appreciation for their business. This proactive approach significantly boosts customer retention and encourages repeat visits.

4. Measurable Results

Unlike some traditional marketing, email marketing provides detailed analytics. You can track open rates, click-through rates, and ultimately, how many appointments were booked as a result of your email marketing campaigns. This allows shop owners to refine their marketing strategy for maximum effectiveness.

5. Direct communication

Finally, email marketing provides a direct line of communication. You can share important updates, special offers, maintenance tips, and build a sense of community with your customer base. This personal touch is something that a general advertisement simply cannot replicate.

Seven email marketing campaign ideas for auto repair shops.

Email Marketing Campaign Ideas

To maximize your marketing efforts, it's essential to diversify the types of emails you send. Here are some of the most effective email marketing campaigns for automotive repair shops:

Welcome Emails

When a new customer provides their email address, send a warm welcome email. This is your chance to introduce your shop, highlight your unique selling propositions, and perhaps offer a small discount on their first service. This initial contact sets the tone for future customer relationships.

Welcome email template

Auto repair shop welcome email template example.

Service Reminders

These are arguably the most crucial emails for an auto repair shop. Based on a customer's service history (which can be managed efficiently through a good CRM system), send automated service reminders for scheduled maintenance like an oil change, tire rotations, or brake inspections. Make it easy for them to book an appointment with a clear call to action.

Service reminder email template

Automotive service reminder example email.

Promotional Emails/Special Offers

Announce discounts, seasonal promotions (e.g., winter tire specials, summer AC checks), or bundled services. Use compelling subject lines to grab attention and always include a strong call to action (or CTAs).

Promotional email template

Promotional email template for mechanic shops.

Maintenance Tips and Educational Content

Share valuable information like "5 Ways to Extend the Life of Your Tires," "Understanding Your Dashboard Warning Lights," or "Why Regular Oil Change is Crucial." This positions your shop as an expert and provides genuine value to your customer base.

Maintenance tip email template

Maintenance tip email template example.

Customer Feedback/Review Requests

After a service, send a follow-up email requesting feedback or a review. Positive testimonials are incredibly powerful for attracting new business. Link directly to your Google My Business page or other review platforms.

Customer feedback email template

Customer feedback email template.

Birthday/Anniversary/Holiday Emails

A small, personalized gesture like a birthday greeting, perhaps with a minor discount, can significantly boost customer loyalty.

Birthday email template

Birthday email template for auto repair shop.

Abandoned Appointment Emails

If your shop offers online appointment scheduling and a customer starts but doesn't complete the booking process, an automated email reminding them to finish can recapture lost potential customers.

Abandoned appointment email template

Abandoned appointment email template.

Automotive Email Marketing Strategies

Now that we've covered the what and why, let's dive into the how. Implementing these best practices will ensure your email marketing strategy yields optimal results for your auto repair shop:

  • Segmentation is Key: Not all customers are the same. Segment your email list based on factors like vehicle make and model, last service date, service history, or demographics. This allows you to send highly targeted and relevant messages, improving open rates and conversion rates.
  • Craft Compelling Subject Lines: Your subject lines are the gatekeepers to your emails. Make them concise, intriguing, and benefit-oriented. Examples: "Time for Your Oil Change?", "Exclusive Discount Just For You!", "Protect Your Car This Winter."
  • Personalization Goes a Long Way: Always address customers by their first name. Reference their vehicle type or past service if possible. Automation can make this surprisingly easy, especially with a good CRM or shop management system.
  • Clear Call to Actions (CTAs): Every email should have a single, clear call to action. Whether it's "Schedule Your Appointment Now," "Claim Your Discount," or "Read Our Latest Blog," make it obvious what you want the recipient to do. Use prominent buttons or hyperlinked text.
  • Mobile Responsiveness is Non-Negotiable: A vast majority of people check their emails on their smartphones. Ensure your emails are designed to look great and function perfectly on all mobile devices. Test your templates before sending.
  • Automate Where Possible: Utilize automation tools to send welcome email sequences, service reminders, birthday greetings, and follow-up emails after a service. This saves time and ensures consistent communication without manual effort. Many CRM systems and email marketing platforms offer robust automation features.
  • Provide Value Beyond Promotions: While special offers are great, don't make every email a sales pitch. Offer genuine value through maintenance tips, car repair advice, and educational content. This builds trust and positions your auto repair shop as a helpful resource.
  • Optimize Send Times: Experiment with different days and times to see when your email list is most engaged. Tools within email marketing platforms can often provide insights into optimal send times based on your audience's behavior.
  • Integrate with Other Marketing Efforts: Your email marketing strategy shouldn't exist in a vacuum. Cross-promote your email list on your website, social media channels, and in your physical shop.
  • Monitor Performance: Regularly review your open rates, click-through rates, and conversion rates. A/B test different subject lines, CTAs, and content to continually improve your email marketing campaigns. This data-driven approach is crucial for success in the automotive industry.
  • Don’t overdue it: Nobody likes receiving 30 emails in one day, so make sure your email cadence is reasonable and not overwhelming to your audience. Always provide an “unsubscribe” option in your emails in case they no longer want to receive emails from you.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, for any auto repair shop looking to thrive in today's competitive landscape, a well-executed email marketing strategy is no longer optional – it's essential. By consistently delivering valuable content, timely reminders, and exclusive offers, you can build a highly engaged customer base, boost customer loyalty, and ensure your auto repair business remains successful for years to come.

Start building your email list today, embrace automation, and watch your marketing ideas turn into tangible results. Your customers and your bottom line will thank you.

Automotive Email Marketing: Effective Strategies for Your Shop

June 30, 2025

Read time: 3 min

read more

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.
6 steps to becoming a car mechanic.

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.

How to Become a Car Mechanic (6 Step Guide)

May 28, 2025

Read time: 3 min

read more