Everything You Need to Start Your Own Auto Shop
It's a big jump from fixing cars for yourself and for friends in your driveway to starting your own professional auto shop. A clean and well-equipped facility is necessary, to allow you to do your job well and to give you legitimacy in the eyes of your customers. Be prepared to spend a substantial amount of money on your way to making a living as an auto shop owner.
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Equipment
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To be able to work on a lot of different foreign and domestic vehicles, the owner of an auto shop requires a wide variety of tools, equipment and machinery. High quality, durable tools are expensive, but do not try to save money by purchasing inferior tools. You will pay more in lost time and money when your cheap tools fall apart. Buy the best tools you can afford, take care of them and do not loan them out. Good locks and an effective alarm system are necessary; automotive technician tools are prized by thieves looking to make money by reselling them on the black market.
Facilities
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Buying your own garage will put you in the best financial position in the long run, because you can benefit from the equity you can build up in the property. If you can't afford to buy, rent or lease an equipped facility that is conveniently located for your customers. Avoid paying a premium price for a prime location if that might adversely affect your profit margin. Your garage will need a lift or a pit to access the underside of vehicles and an air filtration system to maintain air quality in the work area.
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Employees
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While some auto shop owners work alone, many hire employees to help them as their client base expands. Becoming an employer is a big step from being an independent mechanic, requiring a different skill set. Find employees who are trustworthy and meticulous in their work habits. When interviewing potential employees, look at them through the eyes of your customers. You need employees who will treat cars and customers well; inept or rude employees will drive customers away.
Reputation
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Nothing should stop you from opening an auto shop including limited experience or an unknown reputation, but you may find it difficult to get started. Your business will be easier to launch if you have previous local work experience. Your experience provides you with the automotive skills, connections and reputation successful businesses covet. Cultivate relationships and maintain a sound business ethic while you're working for someone else and your good reputation and new customers will follow you.
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