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Free Auto Repair Receipt Template & What You Need To Include

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For every auto repair business, creating a clear and professional receipt isn’t just good practice—it’s essential. Whether you're working on a major vehicle repair or a routine oil change, a detailed receipt serves as a proof of payment for the customer and a legal record for your shop. It helps you maintain transparency, build trust, and protect both parties in case of disputes or warranty claims.

If you’re building your own auto repair invoice template or refining your existing process, this guide walks you through every element your auto repair receipt template should include. From contact information to labor costs, here’s what a comprehensive auto repair receipt looks like.

Auto repair shop receipt example template

We designed an auto repair shop receipt template for you to download and use in your shop. The template can be used for auto body repair shops, mobile mechanics, general repair shops, and tire shops.
Download the free template below and modify it as needed to utilize in your shop.

AUTO SHOP RECEIPT TEMPLATE DOWNLOAD

What Should Be Included in an auto repair shop receipt?

1. Shop contact information

The first thing on your receipt should be your auto repair shop’s full contact information. This builds credibility and ensures customers know how to reach you if follow-up is needed.

What to include:

  • Shop name
  • Address
  • Phone number
  • Email address
  • Website (if applicable)
  • Business logo for branding

A well-organized template with your logo and contact information at the top makes your documents look professional and trustworthy.

2. Customer Information

Next, capture the customer’s name and their contact information. This ensures the receipt is tied to the correct individual and helps with record-keeping for recurring car repair clients.

What to include:

  • Customer's name
  • Address
  • Phone number or email

This section ensures your auto repair business can easily identify who the repair services were for and reach them quickly if needed.

Tek-Tip: Wouldn’t it be great if there was an estimate building software that could do this for you? Tekmetric offers auto repair estimate software among other features.

3. Date of service and invoice number

Every mechanic receipt needs to include the date of service and a unique invoice number. This creates an accurate timeline and helps organize documents chronologically for tax reporting, audits, or warranty purposes.

What to include:

  • Date the service was completed
  • Unique invoice number
  • Optional: technician’s name or initials

4. Vehicle information

For any automotive service, tying the repair order to a specific vehicle is a must. This helps with real-time service tracking, vehicle history reporting, and future maintenance recommendations.

What to include:

  • Year, make, and model
  • Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
  • License plate number
  • Mileage at the time of service

5. Description of services performed

This is the heart of the receipt. Clearly outline what repair work was done and what repair services were provided. The more detail, the better.

What to include:

  • Itemized list of services
  • Description of each job (e.g., “Brake pad replacement” or “Engine diagnostic”)
  • Associated labor costs for each service
  • Cost of parts

6. Parts and material breakdown

An itemized list of parts and materials used in the repair work is just as important as the labor section. This transparency helps avoid disputes and gives your customer clarity on what they’re paying for. Most auto repair shops don’t show the markup percentages on parts but you can if you want to maximize transparency.

What to include:

  • Part name and number
  • Quantity used
  • Cost per unit

7. Balance Due and Payment Summary

Now it’s time to outline the financials, from the subtotal to the total amount. This section should also include the total cost, taxes, discounts, and any payment options you accept.

What to include:

  • Subtotal (before tax)
  • Taxes (state/local)
  • Any discounts or promo codes
  • Total amount due
  • Payment methods accepted (e.g., cash, credit card, financing)
  • Amount paid and remaining balance
  • Due date for final payment, if applicable

Including this section with clear headings avoids confusion and can prevent billing issues down the line. It also ensures the receipt can function as proof of payment. Lastly, this is a great place to feature your financing options (if applicable).

8. Warranty Information

Warranty details protect both your shop and your customer in case a part fails or a job needs to be redone. If your auto repair shop offers any warranty, you need to clearly list what’s covered and for how long.

What to include:

  • Warranty length (e.g., 12 months or 12,000 miles)
  • What is and isn’t covered
  • Instructions for claiming the warranty
  • Any third-party coverage (for example, if a part manufacturer offers a separate warranty)

This section should be written in clear, non-technical language to help customers fully understand their protections. You may want to include a signature line for the customer to acknowledge receipt of the warranty.

9. Streamline receipts

Creating receipts and invoices by hand can be tedious but Tekmetric streamlines that for you. Tekmetric can help you build faster estimates and take payments digitally with our auto repair estimate software.

Some of our features include:

  • Streamlined estimate building
  • Digital approvals
  • Job history and reporting in one place
  • Financing options for customers

Final Thoughts

A well-documented auto repair receipt protects your shop, helps your customer feel confident, and sets the tone for a long-term relationship. From capturing accurate customer information to detailing every repair service, your mechanic receipt should leave nothing to guesswork.

Don’t just think of it as paperwork—think of it as part of your shop’s customer experience. With a little extra attention to your receipt process, your auto repair shop can stand out as a professional, transparent, and customer-first automotive service provider.

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How to Start a Tire Shop (10 Step Guide)

August 8, 2024

Read time: 3 min

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Starting a tire shop can be a profitable business venture, especially if you already own an auto repair shop and want to expand your services. Today's vehicle owners are increasingly looking for one-stop shops that cater to all their automotive needs, from engine repairs to tire services. 

By adding tire services to your offerings, you can attract more customers and increase your revenue. Services typically include tire sales, installation, balancing, rotation, and repair. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about how to start a tire shop, including the permits required, startup costs, profitability, and tools to help you streamline your operations.

10 Steps to Open Your Tire Shop Business

1. Market Research and Planning

  • Market Research: Assess the demand for tire services in your area, analyze the competition, and identify your target market.
  • Business Plan: Outline your business plan, target market, competition analysis, services offered, pricing strategy, and financial projections.

2. Legal Considerations and Permits

  • Business Structure: Decide whether to register as a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation.
  • Licenses and Permits: Obtain the necessary licenses and permits to operate a tire shop, including a business license, sales tax permit, and any environmental permits for proper tire disposal.
  • Insurance: Get appropriate insurance coverage, such as general liability, property, and worker's compensation.

3. Startup Costs and Financing

Startup costs for a tire shop can vary depending on factors such as location, size, and the range of services offered. If needed, secure funding through personal savings, investors, or loans. Typical expenses include:

  • Lease or purchase of property: Costs will vary based on location and size.
  • Equipment and tools: Tire changers, balancers, alignment machines, and hand tools.
  • Inventory: Initial stock of tires and related products.
  • Marketing: Advertising and promotional materials to attract customers.
  • Staffing: Wages for skilled technicians and support staff.

4. Choose a Location

Select a location that is easily accessible and visible to potential customers. High-traffic areas near major roads or highways can increase your shop's visibility and attract more customers. In addition, consider how close your shop will be to competitors and other auto repair shops.

5. Marketing and Branding

  • Branding: Develop a strong brand identity, including a logo, signage, and marketing materials.
  • Marketing Plan: Implement marketing strategies, such as local advertising, online marketing, and promotions. Consider offering discounts, loyalty programs, and special deals.
  • Website: A website may be your first impression to a potential customer. Make sure your website showcases your services and shop appropriately. 
  • SEO: Search engine optimization (SEO) can be a powerful tool to help shops be more visible to local customers searching for auto services.
  • Social Media: Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok can be useful tools to help you reach new customers and promote special offers/events.
  • Local Advertising: Billboards, signage, Google ads, and direct mailers can be influential local marketing tactics to win over new customers. 

Tek-Tip: If you need help coming up with a tire shop business name, we have developed a guide to the best automotive business names. In addition, we developed an AI-powered mechanic business name generator tool that can also help with logo creation.

6. Equipment and Tools

Invest in high-quality equipment and tools to provide efficient and reliable tire services. Essential equipment needed to open a tire shop includes:

  • Tire changers
  • Wheel balancers
  • Alignment machine
  • Diagnostic tools
  • Tire inflation equipment
  • Tire repair tools
  • Jacks and car lifts

7. Inventory and Suppliers

Suppliers: Establish relationships with tire suppliers and distributors. Negotiate favorable terms and prices.

Inventory: Stock a range of tires for different vehicles and price points. Include related products like rims, tire accessories, and repair kits. Consider stocking a diverse inventory with summer, winter, performance and off-road tires.

8. Staffing and Training

Hire experienced and skilled technicians who are knowledgeable about tire services and automotive repairs. Providing ongoing training and development opportunities can help ensure your staff stays up-to-date with industry trends and best practices.

9. Tire Shop Software

To streamline your tire services and improve efficiency, consider implementing Tekmetric's Tire Suite. This powerful tool offers several features to enhance your tire shop management, including:

  • DOT# Registration: Automatically register Department of Transportation (DOT) numbers with tire manufacturers, ensuring smooth operations.
  • Easy Access Tire Specifications: Equip your Service Advisors with instant access to comprehensive tire data, facilitating accurate tire selection.
  • Add Tires from Inventory: Identify the correct sized tires directly from your inventory right on the RO, speeding up the creation of any tire job.

10. Grand Opening and Beyond

  • Grand Opening: Plan a grand opening event to attract customers and build awareness.
  • Customer Service: Focus on providing excellent customer service to build a loyal customer base.
  • Continuous Improvement: Regularly assess and improve your services, marketing efforts, and operations.

Benefits of Adding Tire Services

1. Increased Revenue Streams

Adding tire services to your auto repair shop can create new revenue streams and attract a broader customer base. Vehicle owners are more likely to choose a shop that offers comprehensive services, saving them time and effort.

2. Enhanced Customer Loyalty

Offering tire services can improve customer loyalty by providing a one-stop solution for all their automotive needs. Satisfied customers are more likely to return and recommend your store to others.

3. Competitive Advantage

By offering specialized tire services, you can differentiate your shop from competitors and position yourself as an expert in the field.

How Much Do Tire Shops Make Per Year?

The annual revenue of a tire shop can vary widely based on factors such as location, size, and the range of services offered. On average, a well-managed tire store can generate annual revenues ranging from $200,000 to $2 million. By offering high-quality services and building a loyal customer base, you can maximize your shop's profitability.

Final Thoughts

Starting a tire shop business can be a rewarding and profitable venture, especially when integrated with an existing auto repair shop. By following the steps outlined in this guide and leveraging the benefits of Tekmetric's Tire Suite, you can streamline your tire services, improve customer satisfaction, and increase your shop's profitability.

Data In the Bays: How Metrics Can Elevate a Technician’s Performance

August 1, 2024

Read time: 3 min

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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.

The Best Auto Repair Manuals Of 2025 (Online & Print)

July 29, 2024

Read time: 3 min

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Automotive repair manuals are packed with detailed instructions. Instead of grappling with trial and error, technicians can follow step-by-step guides. This boosts confidence and reduces repair times. These manuals aren't just about fixing problems. They provide insights into preventive maintenance, helping technicians keep vehicles in tip-top shape. More uptime for a vehicle means happier clients and fewer surprise breakdowns.

Key Benefits of Auto Repair Manuals

  • Detailed Instructions: Clear, step-by-step procedures make repairs efficient and straightforward.
  • Accurate Information: Ensures that the latest techniques and specifications are being used.
  • Preventive Maintenance Tips: Helps keep vehicles in better shape for longer.
  • Enhanced Learning For New Techs: Fast-tracks new mechanics by providing valuable knowledge.

Good manuals go beyond just the basics. They often include diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes, and even tips from experienced technicians. This can be a game-changer, especially for those rare, hard-to-solve problems.

Quality manuals foster consistency. Regardless of which technician picks up the job, the repair approach remains standardized. This is essential for shops that aim to maintain a reputation for reliability.

In summary, investing time in finding and using quality car repair manuals is a no-brainer for any technician aiming for efficiency, accuracy, and safety in their work.

The Best Car Repair Manuals

1. Factory Service Manuals (FSM): The Gold Standard

When it comes to automotive repair, Factory Service Manuals (FSM) are considered the best in the market. These manuals come directly from the car manufacturer, providing the most accurate and detailed information available. FSMs are the backbone of any serious technician's toolkit. Their reliability and depth make them indispensable, ensuring that every nut and bolt is turned precisely according to manufacturer guidelines.

Pros

  • Accuracy: FSMs offer the exact specs and procedures recommended by the manufacturer. It's as close as you can get to OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) specifications.
  • Detail: These manuals feature in-depth diagrams, step-by-step procedures, and comprehensive troubleshooting instructions. They cover everything from basic maintenance to complex repairs.
  • Comprehensive Coverage: FSMs cover all models and variations of a particular vehicle. Whether you're dealing with a base model or a fully loaded version, the FSM has you covered.
  • Updates and Revisions: Manufacturers often update FSMs to include fixes for common issues, recall information, and software updates. You get the latest and greatest info.
  • Online Options: Manufacturer websites, auto forums, and E-commerce platforms often offer these manuals in digital format.

Cons

  • Cost: Depending on the manufacturer, these manuals can be more expensive than other options.
  • Learning Curve: Factory Service Manuals are written to professionals and do not offer as much explanation as other manuals.
  • Access: Online versions might require proprietary software or access through specific portals.

2. Chilton Repair Manuals: Accessible and Beginner-Friendly

Chilton auto repair manuals have earned a reputation for being highly accessible and easy-to-use, making them a favorite among DIY enthusiasts. These manuals provide detailed information that is crucial for diagnosing and repairing a wide range of vehicles. They also provide maintenance schedules to keep your cars on the road longer.

Pros

  • User-Friendly: Unlike Factory Service Manuals, Chilton uses clear and easy-to-understand language making even complex repairs easier to understand and execute.
  • Detailed Diagrams and Illustrations: Visual aids enhance comprehension, providing clarity on intricate parts and procedures.
  • Troubleshooting Sections: Identify problems quickly with systematic guidance to diagnose and fix common issues.
  • Layout: Chilton manuals are organized in a way that makes finding information quick and painless. Indexes and tabulated sections ensure that users can quickly navigate through the content without unnecessary hassle.
  • Online Options: Chilton auto repair manuals can now be accessed online, providing additional convenience for tech-savvy technicians and DIYers. Benefits include instant access, search functionality and regular updates.
  • Cost: Some libraries and websites feature these manuals for free making them a more budget-friendly option for DIY enthusiasts and small auto shops.

Cons

  • Generic Content: While comprehensive, Chilton manuals may not be as detailed as Factory Service Manuals, especially for complex repairs. Chilton tries to cover a range of models, which can sometimes lead to less specific guidance.
  • Visuals: Chilton can be stingy on visuals and may not be best for those technicians who prefer diagrams and graphics.
  • Complex Repairs: May lack the depth needed for very advanced or intricate repairs that professional mechanics might require.
  • New Models: May not always cover the very latest models immediately after they are released.

3. Haynes Repair Manuals: DIY Friendly Guides

Haynes auto repair manuals have been a go-to for DIY enthusiasts because they use easy-to-understand language and more visuals than other options. These guides excel in breaking down complex automotive tasks into simple, easy-to-follow steps. Each manual is backed by hands-on reviews, ensuring the steps and procedures actually work. This reliability adds a layer of trust, making these guides a dependable companion for any repair task.

Pros

  • Visuals: Haynes repair manuals offer more photos and illustrations than Chilton.
  • Comprehensive Coverage: Haynes auto repair manuals cover everything from maintenance and troubleshooting to engine and transmission repair. However, they do not offer as much depth as Factory Service Manuals.
  • Tips and Tricks: Cost and time saving tips from experts are included in Haynes manuals to speed up any repair project.
  • User-Friendly: Written in plain English with large text, headings and lie-flat design make this manual easy to read even with greasy hands.
  • Digital Options: Online versions are available and feature search functionality, zoomable images and bookmarks. Haynes is typically cheaper than Factory Service Manuals.

Cons

  • Shallow Content: While Haynes offers comprehensive coverage, more experienced mechanics prefer Factory Service Manuals for more specific guidance.
  • Coverage for New Models: May not immediately cover the latest vehicle models or recent changes in technology.
  • Specialized Repairs: Might not cover specialized or unique repairs that are specific to certain models or configurations.

4. AllDATAdiy: Online Subscription for Advanced Users

ALLDATAdiy repair manuals offer original factory repair information that professionals use, including maintenance schedules, diagrams, and repair procedures. However, they only offer an online subscription-based model with no print options. These manuals are typically preferred by professional technicians and have a larger learning curve for DIY enthusiasts.

Pros

  • Factory-direct: Information is straight from the factory and has not been edited.
  • Updates: Regular updates cover newer car models and reflect the latest information.
  • Accessibility: Online format enables you to take this with you wherever you need it (as long as you have a stable internet connection).
  • Comprehensive:  Offers in-depth diagnostic and troubleshooting guides to help identify and fix issues accurately. ALLDATAdiy provides more advanced information than Haynes or Chilton.

Cons

  • Cost: ALLDATAdiy can be more expensive than other auto repair manual options because of the subscription-based pricing model.
  • Learning Curve: The information can be technical and may assume a certain level of expertise, which can be challenging for novice DIYers.
  • Interface: ​​The digital platform might have a learning curve, particularly for those who are more accustomed to using printed manuals.

5. E-Manuals Online: Convenience in the Digital Age

Navigating car repairs has never been simpler, thanks to the rise of e-manuals. No more flipping through bulky paperback manuals—technicians now have repair information at their fingertips, right on their devices. The world of auto repair is rapidly evolving, and e-manuals are leading the charge toward a more efficient, convenient, and eco-friendly future.

Pros

  • Accessibility: Technicians can access manuals 24/7, whether in the shop or on-site at a customer's location. These manuals can be accessed digitally, printed or downloaded for offline use.
  • Search Functionality: Quickly locate specific information using keyword searches, saving precious time.
  • Environmentally Friendly: Reduces the need for printed materials, contributing to environmental sustainability.
  • Cost: Generally less expensive than printed manuals or subscription-based services like ALLDATAdiy.

Cons

  • Digital Proficiency: Users need a basic level of digital proficiency to navigate and use the manuals effectively.
  • Updates: Unlike subscription services, E-Manuals may not receive regular updates, potentially leading to outdated information, especially for newer vehicle models.
  • Technical Depth: E-Manuals may assume a certain level of mechanical knowledge, which can be challenging for beginners. They may lack the depth required for very advanced or specialized repairs compared to Factory Service Manuals.

6. MOTOR Auto Repair Manuals: Professional Grade Manuals

MOTOR vehicle service manuals are widely used by professional mechanics and automotive technicians. They provide extensive coverage, detailed diagnostics, and professional tools that are essential for efficient and reliable vehicle repairs. However, their cost, complexity, and professional focus may make them less suitable for casual DIY users.

Pros

  • Extensive Coverage: Provides detailed repair procedures, diagnostic information, and maintenance schedules for a wide range of vehicle makes and models.
  • Up-to-Date Information: Regularly updated to include the latest service bulletins, recalls, and technical updates from manufacturers.
  • Print and Digital: Available in both print and digital formats, catering to different preferences and needs.
  • Labor Time Guides: Includes labor time estimates for various repairs, which are useful for both professionals and customers to estimate repair costs.

Cons

  • Cost: Generally more expensive than consumer-oriented manuals like Haynes or Chilton with online options having recurring subscription fees.
  • Technical Language: Written for professionals, so the language and terminology may be difficult for novice or DIYers to understand.
  • Professional Orientation: Primarily targeted at professional mechanics, which means it may not always consider the needs of DIY enthusiasts.

7. Car Repair Forums and Online Communities

Auto repair forums and communities offer a treasure trove of knowledge that complements online auto repair manuals. Technicians can gain real-world insights, share experiences, and solve unique issues by participating in these interactive platforms. Top platforms include Reddit, YouTube, FaceBook, Instagram and more.

Pros

  • Build Relationships: Forums and communities provide opportunities to converse with fellow mechanics and learn from peers.
  • Relevant Information: Chances are that if you have had a question that someone else has asked it before you did. Provides up-to-date information.
  • First Hand Information: Learn from those in the field with first hand knowledge.
  • Cost: Most car repair forums are free to join and use, making them an affordable resource for information and troubleshooting.

Cons

  • Inconsistency: Each forum has different rules for members and it can take awhile to find the information you are looking for.
  • Quality of Information: Information can vary in accuracy, as advice is given by users with different levels of expertise and experience.
  • Standards: Solutions may vary in quality and reliability, and some suggestions may not follow professional or manufacturer guidelines.

How to Choose The Best Auto Repair Manual

Selecting the best auto repair manual can make a huge difference in terms of efficiency and ease of fixing vehicles. Technicians should consider a few key factors before settling on a manual:

  • Coverage: Make sure the manual covers the specific make and model of the vehicle being serviced. Some manuals offer broader coverage, while others are more specialized.
  • Detail: Look for manuals that provide step-by-step instructions, diagrams, and photos to make the repair process as clear as possible.
  • User Reviews: Check out what other techs are saying. Real-world feedback can offer insights into the manual's reliability and usefulness.
  • Updates: The automotive world changes constantly. Manuals that receive regular updates will always have the latest information and procedures.
  • Cost: Consider the price but also weigh it against what you’re getting. Sometimes paying a bit more means getting a lot more in value, other times it is best to opt for a free version from a library or website.
  • Accessibility: Evaluate how you will access the manual. Can it be easily viewed on a smartphone or tablet while you’re in the shop? Is there a downloadable option for offline use?

Always remember, the best manual is the one that fits your specific needs and workflow. Each repair shop is different, and what works for one might not work for another. Be strategic and thoughtful to ensure you’re choosing a resource that will serve you well in the long run.

How to Use Real-Time and Evergreen Data to Grow Your Shop

July 25, 2024

Read time: 3 min

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In today’s auto repair industry, data can play a key role in a shop’s ability to repair a vehicle more efficiently and accurately. Traditionally, repair information was documented informally, often by hand on paper. Today, this information can be captured and processed electronically, leading to a significant acceleration of the repair process – and a more positive customer experience

The transformative power of data extends beyond streamlining individual repairs. In fact, by strategically analyzing your shop’s data over time, you can also use the information to grow your shop. However, to maximize the impact of data, it’s important to know what kind of data is most effective to use in your shop. Some of the more evergreen data – performance over time – is useful in your long-term strategy, while others, such as real-time performance metrics, are more helpful in making short-term tweaks to promote better performance. In this blog, we’ll discuss how you can distinguish between evergreen and real-time data and where you can use both to grow your shop.

Understanding Real-Time vs. Evergreen Data

Before you can decide how to use data, it’s important to understand the difference between evergreen data and real-time data. Real-time data is live data that is available as soon as it is generated. It allows you to manage your shop and respond to situations instantaneously as they happen. On the other hand, evergreen data is used in hindsight, after a timeframe has ended. Most shops use this type of data to reflect after the repairs are complete.

Both forms of data have their uses. Real-time data allows you to respond to situations as they happen in a way that helps support your business. Evergreen data helps you track long-term trends and their effects on your shop. With Tekmetric, you can leverage both types to keep your shop running smoothly. When you leverage data strategically in all forms, you can optimize your shop’s operations and processes, create an excellent customer experience and prime your business for growth.

Stay Ahead of the Curve with Real-Time Data

Real-time data enables immediate visibility into what is happening with your shop at any given time. From inventory to customer communication to repair progress, you can review different buckets within your shop and respond as the day progresses. This capability allows you to make decisions on the fly without having to wait until the end of the day, week or month to know which parts need to be ordered or how many repairs you have completed. Strategically, real-time data can be used for short-term decisions that have long-term effects, ultimately becoming an integral piece to growing the shop’s bottom line.

Examples of how you can use real-time data might include:

  • Track daily progress with the shop dashboard:  Reviewing this in real-time allows you to respond to potential bottlenecks or problems that arise throughout the day. For example, if you see $15,000 in work pending approval before lunchtime, you can encourage your service writers to conduct follow-up calls to get approval and begin the work.
  • Send out rainy-day coupons: Business tends to slow down on rainy days. However, if you experience this, you can respond in real-time by sending a rainy-day coupon incentivizing customers to come in for quick-turn work, like oil changes. 
  • Monitor multiple shop locations with Tekmetric Multi-Shop: Multi-Shop can show you the performance of each shop at any time, from any location – so you can make decisions that support the strengths of all your locations. For example, you might move a car from a very busy, overrun location to another, slower location. Make sure you return the vehicle to the original location for easy customer pickup to maintain your customer experience. This maximizes workflow between high and low volume locations.

Analyze, Determine and Predict Trends with Evergreen Data

In addition to real-time data, you can leverage evergreen data by analyzing trends and your shop’s data for predictive forecasting. One of evergreen data’s biggest advantages is that it captures a period of time without the need for constant refreshing. This can help you review your shop’s performance over longer periods – year-over-year, month-to-month or quarterly – so you can implement long-term solutions to promote growth.

Examples of using evergreen data include:

  • Create more business with declined jobs: When you want to influence cash flow for the coming weeks or months, you can follow up on previously declined jobs, such as an oil change or tire rotation. This customer-centric approach can not only build your customer relationships, but also drive business during a slow month.
  • Create value with Shared Customer History: You can share your customer’s history across multiple locations, bringing extra value through this evergreen data. For example, if a customer asks when they had their last oil change, your service advisor will be able to pull that information within seconds – no matter which location the customer last visited.
  • Create custom financial reports to track shop performance: Tekmetric’s financial reports give you the power and flexibility to create a report that tracks what’s important to you, without any extra noise, and make decisions based on past performance. For example, you can utilize the Time Period Configuration feature to compare data from the previous year or another custom time period, identifying bottlenecks and adjusting your strategy accordingly.
  • Track month-over-month trends with comparative reporting: Pay attention to the trends that occur each month in comparison to the same time frame in previous years. This will allow you to spot trends and respond accordingly, such as preparing for a particularly busy season or implementing strategies to create more work in a slower season.

The Price of Ignoring Data

Time is money. Evergreen and real-time data allow you to manage your shop’s time and resources in the most efficient manner to generate profit while providing an excellent customer experience. To grow your shop, ensure you are using both forms of data to your advantage. Combining evergreen data’s longevity with real-time data can lead you to a multi-faceted business strategy, creating a customer-centric approach that ultimately generates more cash flow, profit and growth.

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How Cloud-Based Automotive Invoice Software Saves You and Your Team Time

July 25, 2024

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Transparency within the auto repair invoice process goes a long way. Most customer will feel uncertain about approving expensive repairs if they don't truly understand the need for them. That's why it's up to your shop to foster a trusting relationship by clearly showing customers the issue, and the need for a repair.

The right invoicing system will improve your shop’s workflow, save your team time, enhance your customers’ experience, and provide you with peace of mind.

Here’s how Tekmetric’s Cloud-Based Shop Management System provides seamless shop management that leads to frictionless payment processing:

  • A service advisor can create a repair order and dispatch it to a technician to run a digital vehicles inspection (DVI).
  • The technician conducts the inspection.
  • The service advisor sends the customer a DVI report, which will outline all the findings.
  • The customer can approve or decline individual line items on the repair order directly from their smartphone.
  • Once the customer finishes scrolling through the estimate, designating the jobs they approve and decline, your shop has the go-ahead to begin the repair(s).
  • Once repairs are complete, there’s a digital record of exactly what the customer approved. That way, when it’s time to pay, there are no surprises.
  • Once the customer pays with their preferred method, they can look back over the receipt—from their computer or smartphone—and feel confident that your shop did exactly what you said you’d do.

After a job is completed and payment is received, all the details from the invoice and repair order become part of your reports and customer history in Tekmetric.

Tekmetric’s cloud-based automotive invoice software has designed the entire process to reduce bottlenecks, build trust, and ensure that customers know exactly what to expect.

By moving smoothly from one step to the next, your team will be able to boost their efficiency, manage their workflow, and spend the extra time building rapport with customers and getting their cars back to good working order.

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Modern Features to Look For in Repair Shop Software

July 24, 2024

Read time: 3 min

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The features and capabilities found in modern repair shop software will fall into two main categories:

  • Features that enable you and your team to work more efficiently
  • Features that enable you and your team to enhance the customer experience

Ultimately, the modern features we’re about to dive into will free up your time as a shop owner. Instead of stressing over small day-to-day details, you’ll be able to focus more on the high-level aspects of advancing your business.