What Does Auto Repair Shop Management Software Replace?

Most shops that switch to a management platform are replacing one or more of the following: paper repair orders and handwritten estimates, printed or whiteboard job boards, phone calls and personal texts for customer communication, spreadsheets for parts inventory and pricing, and separate software tools for inspections, scheduling, and invoicing that don't talk to each other.

Modern Auto Parts Management for Auto Repair Shops

Q: Signs Your Shop Needs a Digital Shop Management System

Signals that it's worth a closer look include: writing the same information down in multiple places, technicians walking to the front desk to ask questions that should already be in the job, inability to tell at a glance how many cars are in progress or where each one stands, customers calling for updates your team has to scramble to find, leaving declined work in your head instead of a system and losing follow-up opportunities, and relying on memory or a calculator for end-of-day reporting.

Q: What to Look For in a Shop Management Platform

Look for features such as repair order and estimate workflow, digital vehicle inspections (DVI), parts ordering and inventory, customer communication, reporting and visibility, and cloud-based access. The best platforms connect these features so information moves from one step to the next without rekeying.

The article titled "Modern Auto Parts Management for Auto Repair Shops" from Tekmetric provides a comprehensive guide on optimizing auto parts inventory management using modern tools and strategies to enhance repair shop efficiency and profitability.

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The Complete Auto Parts Inventory Management Guide for Modern Auto Repair Shops

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May 29, 2024

Read time: 1 min

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Benefits of auto parts inventory management

Let’s explore what inventory management software can do to ensure you have a steady supply of parts so your shop runs smoothly. Here are a few immediate and long-term benefits.

1. Increased customer satisfaction

Customers are frustrated when their work can’t be done because a part is delayed or out of stock. If your inventory is well-managed, you’ll be able to give quotes and timelines with certainty and give your customers a great experience. Predictability keeps customers happy and loyal to your business.

2. Reduced costs

Efficiently managing inventory will reduce costs in a number of ways:

Prevents stockouts—not having enough of a part in your inventory to meet your needs.
Avoid overstocking—forecasting demand keeps overstock to a minimum.
Carrying costs—the expenses that come with storing additional inventory and stock. When your inventory levels are well-managed, you can save on the costs that come with overstocking.

Overall, your auto parts inventory management reduces costs by finding the sweet spot between too much and not enough inventory. This will give you greater flexibility and access to more financial resources.

3. Improved ordering process

The ordering process doesn’t need to be a guessing game. Inventory management helps you track levels and lead times so your business can determine accurately what parts you will need and when. Organizing this process keeps errors to a minimum and helps you maintain control over ongoing expenses.

4. More efficient scheduling

Predictable scheduling will always translate to happier customers. Tracking your inventory needs in real-time will streamline production schedules and eliminate mid-project downtime.

When inventory and stock are well-managed, everything runs more smoothly. Inventory management helps you look at the history as well as your current demand for parts and forecast your ideal inventory level.

5. Better resource allocation

The less capital you have tied up in inventory, the more flexibility you have to invest in other parts of your business. Instead of unnecessarily using up storage or losing money because of slower productivity, you’ll be able to put those resources to good use, finding better use of the space or making other upgrades around your shop.

6. Optimized time management

Methodically stocked and organized parts help you and your staff to stay on task. This creates a better work experience for your entire company.

To make sure things keep running efficiently, you might organize your inventory based on frequency of use, analyze your ordering practices, and identify a backup supplier for important parts. This pays off dividends in the long term, helping your business run more efficiently and make more money.

Simple ways to improve your auto parts inventory management

Managing inventory doesn’t have to be stressful. There are steps you can take now to improve how you operate in the long term.

Store your parts efficiently

The first step to taking control of your inventory is being intentional about where and how your parts are stored. Have designated places for parts you need frequently. Clearly label packages of small items to mitigate confusion, lost parts, and reduce unexpected shortages. Thoughtful organization is the backbone of a well-managed inventory.

Keep parts stored when not in use

The simplest rules are often the most helpful: if a part isn’t being used, put it away. This habit will prevent misplaced parts and reduce unnecessary clutter. This requires buy-in and consistent effort from employees to maintain this standard.

Perform regular inventory checks

Establishing a cadence for checking inventory will make it easier to spot small issues before they become big problems. If you can’t check everything, identify which parts have the quickest turnover and which parts are the highest value, and prioritize checking that inventory first. Continue to examine and adjust your inventory-check process throughout the year.

Hire and train reliable parts personnel

Human error is unfortunately one of the biggest causes of discrepancies in inventory management. This can happen by cutting corners, like assuming the received shipment matches the amount ordered. Hire and train capable, diligent employees to manage your inventory and prevent errors at key moments.

Use an auto shop management software

Auto shop management software streamlines workflows, creates a central point of communication, and is the best way to get your inventory under control.

Inventory tracking: Track inventory levels in real-time so you have an accurate count of the parts and supplies you have in stock.
Workflow management: Schedule appointments for vehicle repairs or maintenance, see what appointments are coming up, when they’re scheduled, and what you’ll need to get the job done.
Real-time data reporting: See a snapshot or do a deep-dive into your shop’s operational data, like inventory, sales, and customer information.
Centralized communication: Without solid communication, costly mistakes are made. Auto shop management software can modernize how you interact with customers and keep your whole team in the loop.

Manage your inventory efficiently with Tekmetric

With the right auto shop management software, the inventory management process can become an asset to your business instead of a bottleneck or drain on your time and money..

Using Tekmetric’s Inventory, you can track the valuation of your stock either while you’re in the shop or remotely. It gives you the price of each part in your inventory and makes shopping for new items easy.

Tekmetric integrates with your preferred vendors using ordering solutions, like Worldpac, Nexpart, and Advancepro, making ordering simpler and streamlining your workflow..

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

FAQ

If you've been running your shop on paper repair orders, a whiteboard, or a mix of disconnected tools, you've probably wondered about shop management software. You’ve also likely questioned what it does and whether it's worth the cost and the disruption of switching to a digital system.

This blog post answers both questions directly with a clear explanation of what auto repair shop management software is, how it works in a real shop, and the signs it might be time to look at one.

What Is Auto Repair Shop Management Software?

Auto repair shop management software is a platform that connects the core workflows of your shop — from writing estimates to completing repairs to collecting payment — in one place. Instead of tracking jobs on paper, managing parts in spreadsheets, and texting customers from your personal phone, everything lives in a single system your whole team can access.

At its core, it's a connected digital workflow for every repair, from the moment a car pulls in to the moment it pulls out.

📋 Quick Definition

Shop Management Software (SMS): Also called a shop management system, is a digital platform that handles the operational and customer-facing workflows of an auto repair shop: repair orders, estimates, digital vehicle inspections, parts ordering, customer communication, invoicing, and reporting. Cloud-based platforms like Tekmetric can be accessed from any device without on-site servers.

A Step-by-Step Guide of What It Does

The easiest way to understand shop management software is to follow a repair from start to finish and see what the platform touches at each step.

1. Customer Arrives: Write-up and Scheduling

When a vehicle comes in, the service adviser opens a new repair order (RO) directly in the software. Customer info, vehicle history, and previous service notes are already there. There’s no need to search through masses of paper, and no digging through filing cabinets.

2. Technician Inspection: Digital vehicle inspection (DVI)

The tech completes a DVI on a tablet or mobile device, adding photos and videos of anything that needs attention. The results are automatically attached to the repair order and can be sent directly to the customer by text before the service adviser even picks up the phone.

This is one of the biggest workflow shifts shop owners find most beneficial. Customers can review inspection results, see pictures of the issue, and approve or decline work from their phone with no callbacks.

💬 From a Tekmetric customer

"The text feature is a huge hit — customers can review inspection results, check estimates, and approve repairs with just a click. The system is really streamlined and everything is integrated, making our workflow way smoother than before."

- Verified Tekmetric Customer, G2

3. Estimate Building and Approval

Once the DVI is complete, the service adviser builds an estimate inside the same system. Parts prices, labor rates, and canned jobs are already set up so advisers aren't manually pricing every line. The estimate flows directly into the repair order once the customer approves.

4. Parts Ordering

Parts ordering happens inside the platform, too. Service advisers can submit orders to their suppliers directly from the repair order, track delivery status, and receive parts against open jobs without leaving the system.

5. Work is Performed and Technicians Stay on Track

The tech board gives service advisers and managers a real-time view of every job in the shop: what's waiting, what's in progress, and what's ready. Techs can update job status from their own device, which keeps the whole team on the same page without walking back and forth to the front desk.

6. Invoice and Payment

When the job is complete, the repair order becomes an invoice. Payment can be collected at the counter, sent by text, or processed through a payment link — depending on how the shop is set up.

7. Customer History

Every completed repair, every declined service, every inspection — it's all stored in the customer's profile. Next time they come in, the service adviser already knows what was done, what was deferred, and what's coming up. That's how you build trust and bring customers back.

What Does It Replace?

Most shops that switch to a management platform are replacing one or more of the following:

Paper repair orders and handwritten estimates
Printed or whiteboard job boards
Phone calls and personal texts for customer communication
Spreadsheets for parts inventory and pricing
Separate software tools for inspections, scheduling, and invoicing that don't talk to each other

💬 From a Tekmetric customer

"We were originally running our shop with two systems; one was for digital inspection and the other was our shop management system. ... I was spending $1,000 a month between the software companies and the IT support. And if the internet connection blipped for a split second, my digital inspection went down for about an hour. Now I'm paying a fraction of what I was before. … We saved a bunch of money, and the estimate writing process is much faster because the labor guide is built into the system."

- Stephane Grabina, Excluservice, Tekmetric Customer

Signs Your Shop Needs a Digital Shop Management System

You don't need to be a high-volume shop to benefit from management software. Here are the signals that tell you it's worth a closer look:

You're writing the same information down in multiple places such as a paper RO, whiteboard, or a text to the customer
Technicians are walking to the front desk to ask questions that should already be in the job
You can't tell at a glance how many cars are in progress or where each one stands
Customers call asking for updates that your team has to scramble to find
You're leaving declined work in your head instead of a system and losing follow-up opportunities
Your end-of-day reporting comes from memory or a calculator

None of these are signs of a poorly run shop. They're signs of a shop that has outgrown what paper and disconnected tools can do.

Do You Actually Need It?

If your shop is processing more than a handful of cars a day, the answer is yes.

The goal of shop management software isn't to add another system to manage. It's to replace the friction in your current process — the paper, the callbacks, the manual pricing, the jobs that fall through the cracks — with one workflow your whole team can use.

"It integrates every aspect of running our shop — from scheduling appointments and messaging customers to integrating payments and sending invoices." - Gigi Collier, G2 Review, Tekmetric Customer

📌 Bottom Line

Auto repair shop management software connects your repair orders, inspections, parts, customer communication, and reporting in one place. It replaces the paper and disconnected tools most shops are running on today and gives you the visibility to run your business with more confidence and less noise.

What to Look For in a Shop Management Platform

Not all platforms are built the same. The best ones don't just digitize each task — they connect them, so information moves from one step to the next without anyone rekeying it.

Repair order and estimate workflow The platform should make it fast to write up a job, build an estimate, and convert it to a repair order without re-entering anything. Look for built-in labor guides and canned jobs so your team isn't pricing from scratch every time. On Tekmetric, estimates flow straight into the repair order, and labor and parts matrices keep pricing accurate and margins protected.

Digital vehicle inspections (DVI) DVIs are one of the highest-impact features in any shop management platform. When technicians attach photos and videos and customers approve work from their phones, authorization rates climb and comebacks drop. The lift is measurable: shops on Tekmetric average $612 per repair order, rising to $741 once digital vehicle inspections are in use. Customers approve more work when they can see exactly what their vehicle needs.

Parts ordering and inventory Look for parts ordering built into the repair order, so your team submits orders without leaving the job or logging into a separate portal. Tekmetric connects to more than 70 integrations, including the parts suppliers most shops already use, and inventory tracking helps prevent shortages while protecting your parts margin.

Customer communication Two-way texting, digital estimates, and automated follow-ups should be built in, not bolted on through a third-party tool. Every extra place your team has to go to reach a customer is another place things fall through the cracks. Tekmetric keeps it in one platform: text a customer, send an estimate, and follow up on a declined service from the same screen.

Reporting and visibility A strong platform gives you a live view of what's happening in your shop right now — car count, technician productivity, average repair order — without pulling a report or doing the math. Tekmetric's real-time reporting puts those numbers in front of you as the day unfolds, so you can coach your team and clear bottlenecks while it still matters, instead of finding out next week.

Cloud-based access Cloud-based platforms don't need an on-site server to maintain or replace, they back up your data automatically, and they let you log in from anywhere — the shop, home, or the road. Shop owners on Tekmetric point to exactly this: no server to buy and swap out every few years, and the freedom to work from any terminal at any location. It matters more than most owners realize until the day they need it.

See How Tekmetric Works

Tekmetric is the shop management platform built for independent auto repair shops. Repair orders, digital inspections, parts ordering, payments, and real-time reporting all run in one system, on any device. There are no servers and no syncing between tools that don't talk to each other and one login for the whole team.

It was built by someone who lived through the problem. Founder and CEO Sunil Patel ran his own shop and built Tekmetric to clear the friction he hit every day. More than 15,000 shops now run on it, connected to more than 70 integrations for the parts suppliers, labor guides, and accounting tools they already use.

What Changes When the Workflow Connects

When inspections go digital, customers see exactly what their vehicle needs — photos, videos, and clear findings in a single message. When they understand the work, they approve more of it. The results track it: Tekmetric shops average $612 per repair order. With digital vehicle inspections in use, that average rises to $741. Add MotoVisuals educational videos, and it reaches around $800. It’s the same honest work, but more of it is approved because customers understand what they're paying for.

That's the pattern across the platform. Faster turnaround from check-in to checkout. More cars through the bays. A customer experience that earns repeat visits. The friction falls away, and shops run on results instead of guesswork.

💬 From a Tekmetric customer"The amount of information that is available to the front desk, the service adviser, and the technician at a glance is very impressive, and the functionality of it together is great."

— Moises M., Guest Service Representative, G2 Reviews, Tekmetric Customer

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What Is Auto Repair Shop Management Software, and Do You Actually Need It?

July 21, 2026

Read time: 9 min

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 withlarge 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.

Thought Leadership

Shop Management

The Best Auto Repair Manuals Of 2026 (Online & Print)

July 29, 2024

Read time: 10 min

When my husband Dana and I started Haglin Automotive, our loyal customers found us from The Yellow Pages.

Things have drastically changed since then thanks to all the technology advancements. Online reviews and Google play a big part in whether a customer will set foot in your shop or return for future repairs.

At Haglin Auto, we always adjust to meet customers, and whether they’re a return customer or a new customer, we prioritize how they feel.

It’s important to meet your customers where they are. We even offer customers free vehicle pick-up and delivery service, free shuttle services, and free loaner vehicles.

But, more importantly, we make sure they understand their repairs and can see everything that’s going on with their cars.

Build Trust with Digital Vehicle Inspections (DVIs)

Haglin Auto has been around for 41 years in the Boulder area, and twice a year 30,000 people come in and out because of Boulder University of Colorado, so we’ve always had an influx of students.

And in order to cater to our college students, we started implementing DVIs.

The reason we made the change in the first place was because our service writers would call a local college student and say, “You car is doing this, this, and that,” and a lot of the times a student would respond with, “I don’t understand,” “I’m not the one paying,” or “Let me call my mom or dad.”

From there, the student would make a phone call home, they would ask questions, and then the student would call back with questions.