Tekmetric Named Leader 5 Times in 2023 G2 Summer Spotlight Report

Hey auto repair shop owners! When’s the last time you examined your invoicing process?

Your shop’s invoicing process may seem like a small part of your business. But your auto repair shop invoicing software presents an oft-overlooked touchpoint with your customers. If you approach it strategically, your invoicing process can be adjusted swiftly and easily to yield tangible improvements to your bottom line.

For customers, the invoicing stage is likely the cause of some amount of stress; it’s never fun to write a big check to get your vehicle fixed.

For shop owners, the invoicing stage is an opportunity to show customers that they’re being taken care of. According to an extensive JD Power customer survey analysis of auto repair customers, “...Quality work done promptly, explained clearly, for a fair price, and delivered with excellent customer service is what leads to customer satisfaction among American drivers.”

A frictionless auto repair shop invoicing software that connects to the rest of your business allows you to build customer loyalty, as well as upsell, cross-sell, and reach a broader customer base. When you take care in how you invoice, and note the impact invoicing has on everything else, you can turn what is normally a stress-inducing process for customers into a process that builds trust and maintains a positive image for your shop.

Here’s how you can find synergy between your auto repair shop invoicing software and other parts of your process to build customer loyalty, improve your marketing, fuel sales, and grow your business.

At Tektonic 2026, one of the most memorable moments of the conference came when Tekmetric turned the spotlight on the shops doing the best work.

The inaugural Shop Excellence Awards, powered by performance insights from the Tekmetric platform, celebrated repair shops that are not only delivering standout business results, but also redefining what exceptional customer service, shop culture, and operational excellence look like across the automotive repair industry.

"Tonight is probably going to be my favorite part of all of Tektonic," Tekmetric CEO and Founder Sunil Patel said during the ceremony. "None of this is about us. It's about the shops in this room, the people actually doing the work. Running shops, leading teams, taking care of customers every single day."

Using 12 months of platform performance data from Tektonic event registrants, Tekmetric recognized shops that rose to the top across key measures of customer trust, service consistency, team culture, transparency, and operational growth.

"The shops that win today aren't just fixing cars … they're building businesses, leading teams, and delivering experiences customers remember," Tekmetric President & COO Lauren Langston said.

Top Car Count Award: Dick's Point S Tire & Auto Repair

The Top Car Count Award recognizes a shop that has earned extraordinary trust from its community at scale.

This year's winner, Dick's Point S Tire & Auto Repair in Battle Ground, Wash., served more than 25,000 vehicles during the last 12 months.

That level of throughput only happens when customers return again and again, and when shop teams consistently deliver an experience drivers trust.

"Serving nearly 26,500 vehicles in a single year means thousands of drivers who found a shop they could count on, returned when they needed help, and left satisfied," Langston said.

Sustained Growth Award: Branch Automotive and AutoPro Maryville

Growth is one thing. Sustaining it is something else entirely.

The Sustained Growth Award recognizes shops that have continuously raised the bar for what they deliver to every customer who walks through the door. Growth in average repair order reflects shops that are doing better inspections, making clearer recommendations, and earning customer confidence in the work their vehicles actually need. These two shops demonstrated the most consistent upward trajectory throughout 2025.

This year's winners were Branch Automotive in Highlands Ranch, Colo., and AutoPro Maryville in Maryville, Tenn.

Branch Automotive posted nine straight month-over-month increases in ARO. AutoPro Maryville also delivered nine month-over-month increases, growing by an impressive 51%.

Together, the two shops exemplify what sustainable growth looks like: stronger inspections, clearer recommendations, and the kind of customer trust that leads to consistently higher-value work.

DVI Powerhouse Award: Craftsman Auto Care – Fairfax

Transparency remains one of the most powerful drivers of trust in modern auto repair, and no shop demonstrated that better than Craftsman Auto Care – Fairfax.

“Winning means everything. It means my team winning–being able to pay the best in the business, being able to offer the best benefits, having amazing employees and amazing customers who just fall in love with us,” said Matt Curry, president and CEO of Craftsman Auto Care.

With almost 10,000 five-star reviews, with an average rating of 4.9 stars, Curry said that's a huge trust signal with all of their customers. Craftsman Auto Care uploaded hundreds of thousands of digital inspection images during a year, the highest total Tekmetric’s dataset.

"That's 300,000 moments where a customer could clearly see what their vehicle needed," Langston said. "Removing guesswork, building confidence, and helping drivers make informed decisions about their car."

The result is a service experience rooted in clarity, education, and trust.

Booked Solid Award: A Master Mechanic and Demore's Automotive

The Booked Solid Award honors shops that have built reliable, predictable demand through reputation and service, the kind customers actively seek out, return to, and refer others to.

This year's first winner, A Master Mechanic in Sparks, Nev., recorded the largest booked appointments in the Tekmetric network dataset.

This year's second winner, Demore's Automotive in Palmer, Mass., earned its recognition by proving that smart marketing and exceptional service are a powerful combination. As a Tekmetric Digital Ads beta participant, the shop turned digital visibility into real volume, reaching the right drivers at the right moment and converting first visits into long-term customer relationships. The result is full bays, steady demand, and a shop that delivers every time someone walks through the door.

Together, these two shops show that full schedules don't happen by accident. They're the result of consistent service, earned trust, and, increasingly, the strategic use of digital tools to reach customers before the competition does.

Financing Excellence Award: The Garagisti Katy

For many drivers, the biggest obstacle to safe, reliable transportation is not understanding the repair, it is figuring out how to pay for it.

The Financing Excellence Award recognizes the shop that best removed that barrier.

This year's winner, The Garagisti Katy in Katy, Texas, was the leading user of Buy Now, Pay Later financing across the Tekmetric network.

“I feel great, not only for myself, but for the team and everything that they do: the customer interactions, the sales, helping close the sale. It means a lot,” said Eddie Marlow, manager of The Garagisti Katy. “I have a great team, a great owner, and this award means a lot to all of us.”

By making financing a seamless part of the customer journey, the shop helped more drivers move forward with necessary repairs without added financial stress.

"This shop has made that moment easier," Patel said, referencing the often difficult conversations shops have when customers need repairs but hesitate because of cost.

Best Shop to Work For: The Kar Shop and Ice Cold Air

The final award of the evening focused on the people behind every customer experience.

The Best Shop to Work For Award recognized two shops this year, each demonstrating, in their own way, that the customer experience will never exceed the employee experience.

The first winner, The Kar Shop in Rogers, Ark., was recognized for building a culture where technicians and staff feel valued, supported, and empowered to grow. During the ceremony, Tekmetric leaders shared one story that stood out: the shop changed its operating hours so employees could spend more time with their families while continuing to invest in training and long-term career development.

“It's really kind of impressive that our guys think so much of us. In your day to day, you don't really think about things like that,” said Keith Kingston, one of The Kar Shop’s owners. “You're there to make sure the customers get taken care of, that everything flows well, that you have all your parts; there are so many small details you have to worry about. You don't always stop to think about how everybody feels. So to know that they said good things about us, it's really kind of humbling.”

The second winner, Ice Cold Air, earned its recognition through intentional hiring, steady processes, and genuine leadership, building a workplace where people feel supported, valued, and proud to belong. 

“And what just happened right there with my team and my wife? That energy is going to go back home with us,” Ashley Butler, owner and franchisor of Ice Cold Air, said immediately after winning the award. “It's going to go throughout the entire organization. And next year, we're coming back with a minimum of two people from each shop, that means 28 people. We're going to bring techs, we're going to bring managers, we're going to bring franchisees, so they can come build that energy and experience Tekmetric firsthand.”

With more than 100 employees, Ice Cold Air’s impact reaches far beyond the shop floor. The Tampa, Fla., team believes in doing things the right way: investing in their people, giving back to their community, and building something that lasts.

"It shows up in their culture, their retention, and in every customer interaction," Langston said.

Raising the Standard for the Industry

The Shop Excellence Awards were ultimately about more than recognition. They highlighted the operational habits, customer-first decisions, and team investments that move the entire industry forward.

At Tekmetric, that is exactly what Tektonic is built to celebrate: the shops leading by example and showing what great looks like.

"To all of our winners, and honestly, to every shop in this room, we know what it takes to do this well," Patel said in closing. "The standard you're setting is what moves this entire industry forward."

Join us at next year's Tektonic to hear their stories, see the strategies behind the numbers, and connect with the shop leaders shaping the future of auto repair.

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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.