New Tekmetric Tools Help Shops Fix More Vehicles, Finish Inspections Faster and Answer More Calls

Jared Haleck

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November 3, 2026

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Read time: 3 min

Tekmetric Repair Guide, DVI Quick Capture and Tekmetric Receptionist open for early access at SEMA 2026, doing more of the work alongside the shop.

Nov. 3, 2026 – Tekmetric, the all-in-one platform used by more than 16,000 auto repair shops nationwide, today opened early access at SEMA 2026 to two new products, Tekmetric Repair Guide and Tekmetric Receptionist, and a new capability, Tekmetric DVI Quick Capture. Tekmetric Repair Guide puts licensed OEM repair information inside the repair order so technicians don’t leave the job to find it. DVI Quick Capture turns a technician’s photos and audio into written inspection findings, cutting documentation time dramatically. Tekmetric Receptionist answers the calls a shop’s team can’t get to, so no opportunity gets missed. Eligible shops will see each tool in their Tekmetric account starting Nov. 3.

For nearly a decade, shops have run on Tekmetric, which holds the repair orders, customers and vehicles behind every job. These three tools put that foundation to work, doing more of the work alongside the shop inside the repair order, the inspection and the phone line. Tekmetric is demonstrating all three at SEMA, Nov. 3 to 6, at Booth 11847.

“Shops have always done more with less, with fewer people and more demand than they can handle,” said Jared Haleck, Tekmetric Chief Product Officer. “Tekmetric started by helping them run the operation. These three new capabilities take the next step and start doing part of the work alongside the team. This is the direction Tekmetric is heading, and SEMA is where we’re showing it for the first time.”

TEKMETRIC REPAIR GUIDE: LICENSED OEM REPAIR INFORMATION INSIDE TEKMETRIC

Stop searching. Start fixing.

In a 2024 Auto Care Association survey of independent repair shops, 51% said their shop sends up to five vehicles a month to the dealer because of vehicle data limits. The association estimates those limits cost independent shops $3.1 billion a year. Each of those vehicles is revenue the shop sends down the road.

Tekmetric Repair Guide puts OEM verified repair information inside the repair order, where the job is already open. The VIN decodes automatically, and the procedures, wiring diagrams, torque specs and technical service bulletins that match the job come up without a search. Technicians can use Ask Tek, the plain-language search inside Tekmetric Repair Guide, to type a question the way they would ask a coworker, such as what commonly causes a misfire on an Audi SQ5, and get a direct answer with the OEM procedure attached. Ask Tek can also recommend labor times based on hours logged at real Tekmetric shops, a real-world reference for the technician to weigh alongside their own judgment.

Who can start using Tekmetric Repair Guide on Nov. 3. Tekmetric Repair Guide launches with eight European makes: BMW, Mini, Audi, Volkswagen, Mercedes, Land Rover, Jaguar and Porsche. Shops with at least 25% of their repair orders on those makes will see it in their Tekmetric account and can start a free 30-day trial. Tekmetric Repair Guide supplements the repair information tools shops already use and does not replace them. Coverage is expanding throughout 2027 as Tekmetric adds more manufacturers. Interested shops can request access to Tekmetric Repair Guide here.

TEKMETRIC DVI QUICK CAPTURE: PHOTOS AND AUDIO IN, WRITTEN FINDINGS OUT

Walk the car. Tekmetric writes the inspection. 

A digital vehicle inspection typically takes a minimum of 30 minutes, and technicians often spend more time documenting it than performing it. Service advisors then often rewrite those findings for the customer. DVI Quick Capture is built to get the process under 10 minutes.

Tekmetric DVI Quick Capture is an enhancement to the DVI shops already run, with the same inspection templates and the same link to the repair order. In the Tekmetric mobile app, the technician captures photos, video and audio notes during the walk-around. Tekmetric assigns the media to the right inspection tasks and writes the findings in language a customer can follow. The technician reviews every finding and accepts or edits it before the inspection is complete.

Who can start using DVI Quick Capture on Nov. 3. Eligible shops on the Tekmetric Scale plan can turn on DVI Quick Capture from the Inspections tab in Tekmetric, and it is included at no cost for them through 2026. It is not available on other plans at this time. Interested shops can request access to DVI Quick Capture here.

“I appreciate the fluid inspection process. Keeping the camera window open so you can just flow through the inspection in one shot. Our inspections are very thorough, and it’s cool to be able to speed them up. Cutting edge. Easy.”

Kellyn Karr, Owner, KAAR Automotive

TEKMETRIC RECEPTIONIST: ANSWERS THE CALLS A SHOP'S TEAM CAN'T GET TO

Never miss another call. 

The average shop misses 160 calls a month, and 90% of those happen during business hours when advisors are already stretched thin. A caller who reaches voicemail may hang up and call the next shop.

Tekmetric Receptionist picks up when the team can't. It books appointments directly onto the shop's live Tekmetric schedule, answers routine questions about hours, location and services from information the shop sets up, and deflects spam. It recognizes returning customers, greets them by name and references their vehicle. Everything else, including a request for a person or a vehicle update, goes into a callback queue with a summary and suggested next steps, so the service advisor knows what the caller needs before dialing back. Setup requires a  call-forwarding configuration at the shop's phone provider, and the shop keeps its main number.

“Tekmetric Receptionist has helped us at Jossy’s tremendously,” said Chris Hiday, General Manager at Jossy’s Auto. “It’s a time saver and we know time is money. We are able to see the calls we missed and a summary of what the customer is needing, which allows us to do the legwork before the call so we are better prepared. Not only does it get the calls when we are busy with another customer, but it also catches the after-hours and weekend calls. Our service advisor loves it.”

Who can start using Tekmetric Receptionist on Nov. 3. Shops connected to RingCentral through Tekmetric Phones and using Tekmetric Online Booking will start seeing Tekmetric Receptionist in their account over the coming days and weeks, as the rollout gradually expands. Once enabled, they can start a free 30-day trial. Remaining RingCentral-connected shops and shops on the waitlist will follow, and general availability is planned for Q1 2027. Shops on other phone systems are part of the plan too: Tekmetric Receptionist works through call forwarding, so shops whose phone system can forward calls will be able to use it over time. Other interested shops can request access to Tekmetric Receptionist here.

Tekmetric will share more about where the platform goes next at a customer webinar on Dec. 9. Register here.

ABOUT TEKMETRIC

Tekmetric, the most trusted auto repair platform used by more than 16,000 shops nationwide, improves auto repair shops through the relentless pursuit of innovation. Tekmetric's all-in-one cloud-based auto repair platform, including shop management, payments, marketing, technology integrations and real-time data, empowers auto repair shops nationwide. With Tekmetric, shop owners can create transparency, enhance productivity, increase profitability and deliver a superior customer experience for vehicle owners. For more information, visit www.tekmetric.com.

👉 Ready to grow your automotive business? [Book a personalized Tekmetric Demo Here]

FAQ

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Businesses are buckling down and tightening their checkbooks in an effort to control expenses to avoid or reduce the effects of a potential recession.

But in the auto repair industry, there are unique opportunities that come with uncertainty in the market – and that’s more business opportunities.

As people across the country reduce their spending, they are more likely to repair vehicles than to replace them, offering auto repair shops the opportunity to actually increase business. With the right strategies, you may find that it’s entirely possible for your shop to not only survive an economic recession – but thrive and grow.

Auto Repair Shop Growth in the Midst of a Recession

May 24, 2022

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If you're running an auto repair shop, investing in a car lift is essential. A high-quality vehicle lift makes it easier to work on cars, increases efficiency, and ensures safety. But how much does it actually cost to install a car lift? That depends on the type of lift, installation costs, and other factors such as weight capacity and safety features. Let’s break it all down so you can pick the best automotive lift for your needs.

Do you need a car lift?

Car lifts are essential in auto repair shops because they provide mechanics with better access to a vehicle’s undercarriage, making inspections, repairs, and maintenance tasks safer, more efficient, and more comfortable. Unlike floor jacks, lifts offer a stable and elevated workspace, reducing the risk of injuries and improving workflow.

With a car lift, technicians can quickly perform tasks such as oil changes, brake repairs, exhaust system work, and suspension adjustments without having to crawl under the vehicle. This efficiency leads to faster turnaround times and higher shop productivity.

Additionally, lifts help maximize shop space by allowing vertical storage for vehicles, which is especially useful in high-volume repair shops. Overall, car hoists are a fundamental investment for any auto repair shop looking to enhance efficiency, safety, and the quality of service provided to customers.

Types of car lifts and their costs

Each type of lift has its pros and cons. Some lifts are better for oil change shops and some are better for tire or repair shops. In general, car lifts can cost between $1,000 and $20,000 depending on brand, lift capacity, lift height, and features. Here’s a comprehensive look at the most common lift options for your shop.

An image comparing the cost of car lift types.

Two-Post car lifts

A two-post car lift is one of the most popular choices for auto repair shops. They are popular because they take up less space and can be affordable depending on features. Make sure to plan out your shop layout as these lifts are permanent and cannot be easily moved. These hoists come in asymmetric and symmetric configurations, allowing flexibility based on vehicle type.

  • Price: $3,000 - $10,000
  • Best For: General repair shops working on SUVs and smaller cars.
  • Lift capacity: 5,000 - 10,000 lbs.
  • Popular brands: BendPak, Rotary, Tuxedo.
  • Advantages: High lifting capacity while saving space for smaller shops.

Four-Post lifts

A four-post lift provides greater stability and weight capacity, making it ideal for heavier vehicles. If your shop works on a lot of trucks or heavy-duty vehicles, the four-post lift might be the best lift for you. Tire and brake shops should avoid these lifts as the tires sit on the lift making it difficult to work on these areas.

  • Price: $5,000 - $25,000
  • Best For: Dealerships and professional shops.
  • Lift capacity: 7,000 - 14,000 lbs.
  • Popular brands: BendPak, Titan, Tuxedo, Rotary.
  • Advantages: Heavier lifting capacity for larger vehicles.

Scissor lifts

If saving space is your top priority, the scissor lift may be your best option. They are almost invisible when not in use and lie flat on the ground to optimize garage space. Double check the lift capacity and height to make sure it can accommodate the types of vehicles you work on.

  • Price: $1,500 - $10,000
  • Best For: Quick repair shops where space is limited.
  • Lift capacity: 5,000 - 15,000 lbs.
  • Brands: QuickJack, BendPak, MaxJax
  • Advantages: Compact and cheaper.

In-Ground lifts

In-ground car lifts are a great choice for shops that work on heavier vehicles and want to save space. These lifts are the perfect balance of the space saving capabilities of a scissor lift while also providing optimal strength for large vehicles.

  • Price: $10,000 - $25,000
  • Best For: Repair shops and dealerships.
  • Lift capacity: 5,000 - 20,000 lbs.
  • Brands: BendPak, Rotary, Atlas
  • Advantages: Compact while also offering enough muscle.

Portable car lifts

If your shop layout frequently changes or you are a mobile mechanic, a portable lift may be the best option. These lifts can be easily moved around a garage or taken to a job site and are often the cheapest option. However, they can be less reliable and don’t provide the same level of strength as a stationary lift.

  • Price: $500 - $5,000
  • Best For: Home garages, mobile mechanics, DIY enthusiasts.
  • Lift capacity: 5,000 - 10,000 lbs.
  • Brands: QuickJack, MaxJax
  • Advantages: Affordable, compact, mobile.

Installation prices for car lifts

Installing a vehicle lift is not just about purchasing the unit. You also need to consider the installation costs, which can vary depending on the type of lift and garage setup. Here are the main factors affecting installation costs:

1. Concrete requirements

Most lifts, especially two-post car lifts and four-post lifts, require a thick concrete base. If your floor isn’t thick enough, you may need reinforcement, which adds to the cost.

2. Electrical setup

Lifts need power, and if your garage isn’t wired for it, you’ll need an electrician.

3. Air compressors & accessories

Some lifts require compressors and additional balancer tools for operation.

4. Professional installation

Hiring a pro ensures the lift is ALI-certified and meets safety regulations.

Choosing the right car lift for your auto repair shop

Each type of lift comes with its own advantages, making it important to choose the right one based on your needs. Here are some things to consider when making your decision:

  • How big is your shop?
  • Which repair services do you offer?
  • What is your budget?
  • Does the lift offer a warranty?
  • Will you garage layout change over time?
  • How important is a car lift warranty to you?
  • How heavy will the vehicles you work on be?
  • What is the average review rating of the lift?
  • How easy or hard is the lift to install?
  • How much will the maintenance cost?

Final thoughts

Installing a vehicle lift in your auto repair shop is a smart investment. Whether you choose a two-post car lift, scissor lifts, or portable lift, knowing the lift cost and installation costs upfront can help you budget wisely. Whatever you choose, ensure it’s ALI-certified for safety and performance. Lastly, don’t forget about regular maintenance and safety inspections to ensure your lift continues to run for many years.

How Much Does a Car Lift Cost + Installation Prices

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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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