In auto repair, there are many moving parts to keep track of—both the literal parts your shop uses to repair vehicles, and the parts of your business that determine your shop’s efficiency, security, and ability to grow. If you want your shop to flourish, it’s crucial to devote part of your business to keeping track of the parts you order.
Many shops track parts in terms of cost of goods sold. The parts you need for the job are included on every repair order, so it’s easy to see what parts your customers are paying for as long as you have a solid process for building repair orders.
But what about in terms of accounts payable? How does your shop track how much you’re spending for parts from the supplier?
Should You Use Purchase Orders or “Save Time?”
For your accounts payable, or determining how much you’ll owe your parts suppliers, there are typically two routes you can take:
Wait for the parts bills to come in and trust that you’re being charged the correct amount, or
Create a formal purchase order each and every time you order parts from a supplier.
The advantage of going with the first route is that you save a little bit of time; there’s no second step of reconciling the part you need to purchase on a purchase order. But the cons far outweigh this advantage—because this is where shops can start to lose money.
For example, your ROs may indicate that you have a 30% profit margin on parts, but if you don’t accrue your parts bill, you won’t know for sure if that’s the case until the parts bill hits your account. Suddenly, when the money gets taken out, your margins are razor-thin.
So, what happened?
Did a supplier charge too much? Were you double-charged? Was an unauthorized person ordering parts on your account? Was there theft?
It’s hard to tell if there is no paper trail or purchase order for you to look at.
If you’re not paying attention to your parts orders on the accounts payable side, you could be losing money, and it will typically take a large missing chunk of change for you to realize that something is wrong. Withouta paper trail, figuring out the problem is not only difficult but also extremely time consuming. Once you notice that there is a loss you can’t account for, all the “time saved” by skipping the purchase order step comes back in the form of time spent trying to figure out the issue.
By reconciling your parts orders on both repair orders and purchase orders, you can easily check to see what’s going on, protecting your shop from incidents where you are losing money due to overages, slip-ups, theft, and overcharges.
How to Build a Better Parts Ordering System
When it comes to tracking parts on repair orders and purchase orders, consistency is key. Shops that have strong, consistent processes and procedures—and follow them every single time—rarely have issues with leakage and theft; they instill habits in their team to keep careful track of all parts.
As long as your shop has a repeatable process for adding parts to repair orders and putting in purchase orders, you will be able to quickly identify any issues as soon as they crop up. Every service advisor and employee that orders parts and builds repair orders for customers should use the same method for filling out repair orders, creating purchase orders, and inputting this information into your shop management system and accounting system.
Create a standard process for each of the following:
How jobs get posted
How repair orders are built
How repair orders are approved
How parts orders are posted
How purchase orders are written and sent to suppliers
How purchase orders are approved
How parts and purchase data get analyzed
Instill Parts Ordering Best Practices with Tekmetric
Standard procedures for ordering parts and creating repair orders are built into Tekmetric. We give shops the tools and guardrails needed to effortlessly track parts throughout each step of the repair process.
From our intuitive repair order builder to our integrated parts ordering and inventory systems, we aim to align your team so that no money slips through the cracks. And our industry leading analytics and reporting tools allow you to keep track of your shop’s financial history in realtime.
This article was written with the guidance of automotive repair industry CPA Hunt Demarest of Paar, Melis, & Associates, P.C.
The automotive repair industry is constantly evolving, and shop owners need software that keeps pace. Tekmetric offers auto repair shops an all-in-one platform–built with firsthand shop insight–to manage workflow, customers, and profitability.
No single solution fits every business perfectly, and a variety of Tekmetric competitors offer alternative functionalities and approaches. This overview provides an honest look at Tekmetric through the lens of customer feedback and core product strengths. Whether actively comparing software options or simply exploring what’s available, this guide is designed to help you make confident, informed decisions.
What is Tekmetric?
Tekmetric is the all-in-one solution for modern auto repair shops. Tekmetric is designed to streamline operations, enhance profitability, and improve customer communication for automotive repair businesses.
An all-in-one solution, Tekmetric provides a centralized platform for managing various aspects of a repair shop's daily workflow. Its focus on real-time data and a user-friendly interface has made it a popular choice for modern automotive repair shops.
Most importantly, Tekmetric is the only auto repair shop software in the market that was created by a former shop owner – so every feature was designed with firsthand insight into what shops actually need.
Tek-Tip: Ask ChatGPT or Gemini for a summary of Tekmetric and how it could be a fit for your business.
Why choose Tekmetric?
Shopmonkey, AutoLeap, Mitchell 1, and other competitors offer robust features and may look similar on the surface. Researching the pros and cons of each software takes time, so we boiled it down for you and highlighted five reasons why Tekmetric is the leading shop software.
Built by a former shop owner: Tekmetric is built to solve real pain points for shops, not generic SaaS assumptions.
All-in-one solution: Tekmetric offers cloud-based shop management software, payments, marketing, mobile app and more.
Multiple integrations: 70+ integrations consolidated into one workflow.
Unlimited users + No long-term contract: Pricing model designed to scale seasonally without renegotiation.
Trusted support: U.S.-based phone, chat, and email support plus industry-leading uptime.
How Tekmetric Compares to Other Auto Repair Shop Software
While Tekmetric is a prominent software in the industry, several Tekmetric competitors provide compelling alternatives. Let's compare Tekmetric in terms of features, integrations, customer support, pricing, and customer reviews.
Features
Tekmetric offers a variety of features that cater to the diverse needs of auto repair shops. Some of its core functionalities include:
Digital Vehicle Inspections (DVIs): DVIs allow technicians to capture photos and videos on their mobile devices to visually communicate findings to customers. This transparency helps build trust and often leads to higher approval rates for recommended services.
Payments and Flexible Financing: Tekmetric Payments gives you the POS tools to get paid faster and more reliably, whether customers pay upfront or over time. With secure, encrypted transactions and flexible financing options like Buy Now, Pay Later, you can offer your customers a payment schedule that fits their budget, and get more repair orders approved in the process.
Repair Orders and Estimates: Tekmetric simplifies the creation and management of repair orders, enabling shops to quickly generate accurate estimates, track progress, and convert estimates into invoices. It can automate parts and labor calculations, improving efficiency.
Customer Communication: The software facilitates seamless customer communication through SMS and email notifications, allowing shops to provide real-time updates on vehicle status, share inspection results, and send payment links.
Inventory Management: Shop owners can efficiently manage parts inventory, track stock levels, and integrate with parts ordering platforms like PartsTech and Nexpart to streamline the procurement process.
Reporting and Analytics: The platform provides valuable insights into key performance indicators (KPIs) such as gross profit, average repair order (ARO), and close ratio, enabling shop owners to make data-driven decisions to boost profitability.
Integrations
Integrations are crucial for any efficient shop management solution. Tekmetric excels here by offering the most integrations in the industry. Tekmetric integrates with 70+ tools like ALLDATA, Advance Auto Parts, and PartsTech to streamline your workflow.
When comparing auto repair shop management software, make sure you choose a software that supports your entire workflow and can grow with your business.
Customer Support
Customer support is a vital aspect of any software solution. Tekmetric prides itself with industry-leading uptime and customer support. Our US-based support team is ready to answer your call, email, or chat message.
Don’t believe us? Our G2 reviews speak for themselves.
Pricing
Pricing structures for shop management systems can vary significantly. Some offer tiered pricing based on the number of users or repair orders, while others have flat monthly fees. Tekmetric's pricing offers a monthly subscription (no long-term contracts), unlimited users, with add-ons available for specific features.
Tekmetric starts at $179/mo, offering a competitive price and the ability to cancel at any time. We believe in earning your business every month.
How Do Customers Feel About Tekmetric?
Customer feedback, particularly from platforms like G2, provides insight into the real-world user experience. Some of the common themes in Tekmetric reviews include:
User-friendly Interface: Many users find Tekmetric intuitive and easy to navigate, which helps with quicker onboarding for staff and improved daily workflow.
Comprehensive Functionality: Customers appreciate the all-in-one nature of Tekmetric, noting its effectiveness in handling everything from digital vehicle inspections to repair orders, inventory, and customer communication.
Strong Integrations: The seamless integration with other essential tools is frequently highlighted as a major benefit, allowing for a more streamlined and efficient operation.
Responsive Customer Support: Numerous reviews commend Tekmetric's customer support team for their promptness, knowledge, and willingness to assist. This level of support contributes significantly to a positive customer experience.
Improved Efficiency and Profitability: Shop owners often report an increase in efficiency and a positive impact on their profitability due to Tekmetric's reporting capabilities and real-time insights.
Final thoughts
Choosing the right shop management software is a critical decision for any auto repair business. Tekmetric offers a powerful cloud-based solution with a strong set of features, excellent integrations, and highly-regarded customer support.
Shop owners should carefully evaluate their specific needs, budget, desired functionalities, and the importance of various integrations when considering a software solution. The goal is to find a solution that not only meets current demands but also scales with the future growth of the business, ensuring a smooth and efficient customer experience for years to come.
Hello Shop Owners, Sunil Patel, Co-Founder of Tekmetric here.
I’m writing this blog because I believe it’s both an honor and a duty to be a leader in business.
Recently, I was awarded by Houston Business Journal as a Most Admired CEO of 2020, and this got me thinking about the leadership principles that have helped me along the way and made Tekmetric what it is today.
Not only do I lead a team of great talent, but I also speak with and have the pleasure of doing business with many strong leaders, whether it be shop owners, other entrepreneurs, or even other leaders within the company.
The fact of the matter is that I wouldn’t have been able to build a robust shop management software without my team. Watching them succeed and set each other up for success is hands down the most rewarding part of my job.
It’s a privilege to work with talented and innovative individuals that make me proud each and every day.
Playing a part in helping them grow and flourish makes me feel like I have served a purpose larger than simply building a product or making money.
Inspired by the HBJ honor, I took the time to sit down and outline a few of the leadership principles that I have always relied on.
They focus on listening, learning, and recognizing everyone as an individual. I hope they help you and your team grow as people and as a unit.
1. Listen to Your Team
Good leadership relies on a strong feedback process.
Listen to your team, whether it’s an idea or how they’re feeling so that they know you care not only about their contributions but also about them as people.
Once a week, I sit down with the leaders of different departments and simply listen to how things are going. What are the current challenges they’re facing? What are some successes they’re proud of?
What do they feel they could use more support with? Giving them the room to voice their concerns, their desires, and their victories provide them with a model for being the best leader they can for the people they lead.
Even when we’re hiring new team members, we like to get input from our current team to make sure we’re considering all voices in the process.
No idea is a bad idea. Even the ideas that you never end up using still have value because they can spark other ideas, show your team a new perspective, or simply show the person who voiced them that they were included as part of the team or project.
Whether you're just getting started in the world of auto mechanics or you're a seasoned professional looking to sharpen your skills, having the right books in your toolkit can make a world of difference.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best 10 books for anyone looking to master automotive repair—five books for beginners and five for professionals. Whether you're diving into DIY oil changes, understanding electrical systems, or prepping for ASE certification, these books can help you become the car mechanic others rely on.
Top 5 Mechanic Books for Beginners
1. Auto Repair For Dummies by Deanna Sclar
Deanna Sclar, a trusted name in car books, breaks down automotive repair in a clear, engaging way. Topics include basics like changing oil, identifying car parts, and performing simple diagnostics. Updated editions also include guidance on hybrid and electric vehicles.
This book is great for high school students, DIY car owners, and anyone who wants to enhance their car repair knowledge. It teaches vehicle maintenance fundamentals and gives you the confidence to handle everyday car repair tasks.
This book is available in paperback and audiobook format on Amazon and Goodreads.
2. How Cars Work by Tom Newton
“How Cars Work” is an illustrated mechanics book designed to make complex automotive technology digestible. It covers everything from internal combustion engines to carburetors using simple diagrams and descriptions.
Ideal for visual learners and those completely new to auto mechanics. This is a great first book for beginners, high school students, and anyone wanting a strong visual foundation. This book is available at Amazon, Goodreads, and Walmart.
3. Service Repair Manuals
Service repair manuals offer detailed, step-by-step instructions specific to various makes and models. Whether you're working on a Chevy or a lawn mower, there's likely a repair manual for it.
These manuals walk you through every procedure—from basic maintenance to full rebuilds—making them excellent for DIY mechanics. The manuals are great for car owners who want to perform their own maintenance and repairs, especially oil changes and part replacements.
4. Auto Repair and maintenance for Beginners by Dave Stribling
This is a more recent release that blends practical guidance with a conversational tone. It’s designed for car owners who want to understand what’s under the hood without going back to school.
It breaks down diagnostics, basic electrical systems, and essential car repair projects with clarity and confidence. DIYers, automotive technology students, and anyone just entering the field will benefit from this resource. This book is available on Amazon and Target.
5. ASE Study Material
While not a traditional repair resource, these ASE guides cover specific topics you may be interested in. In addition, these resources can also help you study for your ASE exams/certification. These study guides cover everything from refrigerant to engine diagnostics.
These resources are great for beginners looking to become ASE certified or just want to deepen their technical knowledge of car repair. You can find these ASE resources on the ASE website.
Top 5 Mechanic Books for Professionals
1. Automotive Technology: A Systems Approach by Jack Erjavec & Rob Thompson
Used in technical schools and ASE training programs, this comprehensive study guide covers every vehicle system in detail. From brakes to diagnostics and internal combustion engines, it’s a powerhouse of professional knowledge.
Excellent for instructors, professional auto mechanics, and shop technicians. It’s also used as a curriculum base in many accredited auto mechanic programs. This book can be found on Amazon and Goodreads.
2. Engine Repair (A1) – ASE Test Prep Study Guide by Delmar Cengage
If you’re serious about becoming ASE certified, this study guide is one of the best tools to prep with. It’s focused on the A1 Engine Repair certification exam and is updated with the latest questions and procedures.
It contains practice questions, answer keys, and step-by-step breakdowns of engine troubleshooting and repairs. Mechanics pursuing ASE certification and current techs looking to refresh their credentials will benefit from this book.
3. Bosch Automotive Handbook
This is not your average repair manual. The Bosch Automotive Handbook is a dense, technical reference filled with precise definitions, formulas, and design principles behind modern vehicle systems, including electrical systems and diagnostics.
A must-have for those working on diagnostics or developing automotive systems. Not ideal for beginners, but invaluable for seasoned pros. This book is available on Amazon.
4. Advanced Automotive Fault Diagnosis by Tom Denton
Tom Denton is a trusted author in the world of automotive technology. This book focuses on advanced diagnostics using real-world case studies and troubleshooting processes.
It covers OBD systems, scan tools, sensor data interpretation, and diagnostics strategies used in modern repair shops. ASE certified professionals, diagnostic techs, and repair shop leads will appreciate this book. This book is available at Walmart and Amazon.
5. Motorcycle Basics Techbook by Matthew Coombs (Haynes)
Auto mechanics often expand into motorcycles. This Haynes book explores motorcycle maintenance and repair with the same detail they bring to their car repair manuals.
Great for mechanics who want to branch into motorcycle repair or work at specialized repair shops. This book is available on Amazon and Thriftbooks.
Other Mechanic Resources
While books are still relevant, many mechanics have transitioned to other resources like YouTube videos and podcasts. Here are some of our favorites.
YouTube
YouTube is a gold mine for car repair veterans and DIYers alike. Some of our favorite channels include:
Enright Auto - for new tools and repair techniques
Reddit can be another powerful resource for new techniques plus an online community to answer questions you may have. Some of the best subreddits include:
Investing in a good book isn’t just about reading—it’s about building your skills, your confidence, and your future in the automotive industry. Whether you’re just learning how cars work or studying classical mechanics principles, there’s a resource here that can guide you. The best mechanics know that their education never stops.
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