How to Start an Auto Repair Shop: Step-by-Step Guide

 

How to Start an Auto Repair Shop in the USA

Picture this: you’ve spent years under hoods, diagnosing mysterious engine knocks and bringing dead batteries back to life. Now you’re ready to turn those skills into a business.

Starting an auto repair shop isn’t just about fixing cars. It’s about building a place where quality work speaks louder than any advertisement.

This guide walks you through each step of launching your shop, from the first spark of an idea to the moment you flip your “Open” sign. We’ll focus on the essentials you need to get started, not the day-to-day operations that come later.

Step 1: Research Your Market and Define Your Craft

Before you invest a single dollar, understand what your community needs. Map competitors using online sources (Google Maps, state/county business registries) and reviews, then validate with field visits. Are they general repair shops or specialists? What services do they advertise?

Talk to car owners at coffee shops and gas stations. Ask what frustrates them about their current mechanics. Listen for patterns. Maybe they struggle to find someone who understands European imports. Perhaps they want faster turnaround times. These conversations reveal gaps you can fill.

Now decide what kind of shop you’ll build. Will you be a master of all trades, or will you specialize? Some shops focus on transmissions, others on brakes or diesel engines. Specialization can support premium pricing if you solve scarce, complex problems. General repair shops serve broader markets but face more competition.

Consider your own skills honestly. What repairs do you do confidently? Where does your expertise shine brightest? Your shop should reflect your strongest abilities because quality work becomes your reputation.

Take time to get an inside look at the business you’re considering and understand the industry deeply before proceeding.

Step 2: Build Your Business Foundation

Every successful shop starts with a solid plan. Write a concise business plan—lenders typically expect one for commercial and SBA loans—because putting ideas on paper forces clarity. Your plan should answer key questions: What services will you offer? Who are your ideal customers? How much will you charge?

Research startup costs carefully. Equipment alone can run from $50,000 to over $150,000 depending on the size of your shop and whether you buy new or used.

Two-post lifts typically cost $2,000 to $4,500. Four-post lifts cost $3,000 to $10,000. Installation is extra.

Professional-grade diagnostic scan tools generally run $1,600 to $4,000. Hand tools often run $10,000 to $20,000 for a quality set.

Location matters. Budget rent using a per square foot per year rate, and confirm whether the lease is a triple-net (NNN) or gross lease. Industrial asking rents vary by market; recent U.S. averages are about $10–$12 per square foot per year. Use current local comparables to estimate your true monthly cost. Auto-zoned retail or industrial corridors can be significantly higher.

Plan a 6–12 month cash runway for operating expenses as a safety buffer. Include rent, utilities, insurance, and your own living costs. Most new shops take time to build a steady customer base. This cushion keeps you afloat during the early months.

Look into financing options early. Small Business Administration loans offer favorable terms for shop owners. Traditional bank loans work if your credit history is strong. Some equipment suppliers offer financing or lease-to-own arrangements. Before approaching lenders, ensure you write a business plan that clearly demonstrates your path to profitability.

Step 3: Choose Your Business Structure

Your legal structure affects everything from taxes to liability. Most new shop owners choose between three options:

A sole proprietorship is simplest and cheapest to start. You and the business are one legal entity. You report profits on your personal tax return. The downside? You’re personally liable for all debts and lawsuits.

A Limited Liability Company provides protection. If someone sues your business, they generally can’t touch your personal assets like your house or savings. LLCs cost more to set up but offer peace of mind. Filing fees vary by state—confirm locally.

A corporation offers strong liability protection but comes with more paperwork and regulations. Most small auto shops don’t need this level of complexity unless they plan rapid expansion.

Consult with a business attorney and accountant before deciding. Their advice is worth the investment because choosing wrong creates headaches later.

Step 4: Navigate Licenses and Permits

Auto repair shops face more regulatory requirements than most businesses. Every state has different rules, so expect to contact multiple agencies. Start with your state’s department of motor vehicles or consumer affairs.

Licensing is state/county-specific. For example, California’s Bureau of Automotive Repair requires an Automotive Repair Dealer (ARD) registration (currently $200 initial and $200 renewal), while some Florida counties add local business licenses (e.g., Broward County has a $350 motor vehicle repair business tax, while Miami-Dade amounts vary by classification and jurisdiction). Renewal intervals and fees differ—verify requirements with your state and city before leasing.

Your local city or county requires a general business license. Visit your city hall or county clerk’s office to apply.

Zoning approval is critical. Not all commercial spaces permit auto repair because of noise, waste concerns, and increased traffic. Contact your zoning department before signing any lease. Ask specifically if automotive repair is allowed in your intended location.

Environmental compliance comes next. The Environmental Protection Agency sets rules for handling hazardous materials. Set up used-oil management per 40 CFR Part 279 and use licensed haulers; additional state/local approvals may apply. If you do paint work, air quality permits may be required at the state or local level—confirm specifics with your state environmental agency.

If you’ll service air conditioning systems, your technicians need EPA Section 609 certification for refrigerant handling. Providers typically charge about $20 to $50, and many offer online, same-day testing.

Apply for an Employer Identification Number from the IRS, even if you start as a solo operation. It’s free and takes minutes online at IRS.gov. You’ll need this for tax filings, bank accounts, and hiring employees.

Don’t forget a Certificate of Occupancy from your local building department. This confirms your space meets safety codes and zoning requirements. Requirements differ if you’re leasing versus buying property.

Step 5: Secure Proper Insurance Coverage

Insurance protects everything you’re building. A single lawsuit without coverage can destroy your business. Don’t skip this step or buy inadequate policies.

General liability (CGL) is your foundation for third-party bodily injury and property damage. If someone slips on your freshly mopped floor and breaks an arm, CGL handles medical bills and legal costs. Most shops carry $1 million per occurrence and $2 million aggregate limits.

Garagekeepers covers customers’ vehicles while in your care, custody, or control (e.g., fire in your bay, theft from your lot, or damage during a test drive). Garage liability extends to liability arising from garage operations (third-party injury/property damage).

Talk to a knowledgeable broker about Products-Completed Operations and “your-work” exclusions. Coverage typically applies to resulting injury or damage caused by faulty work—not the cost to re-do the defective work itself.

Workers’ compensation is required in most states once you hire employees; Texas allows many private employers to opt out (with specific notice and compliance obligations)—confirm your state rules.

Commercial property insurance protects your building, equipment, and inventory from fire, theft, and vandalism. If a storm damages your shop, this coverage helps you rebuild.

Shop for insurance from carriers experienced with auto repair businesses. Carriers like Nationwide, The Hartford, and NEXT offer auto service & repair shop packages (including garage liability and garagekeepers coverage). Bundling policies can reduce premiums—some providers advertise savings when policies are purchased together.

Step 6: Find and Prepare Your Location

Your shop’s location shapes its success. Look for commercial spaces with multiple bays, high ceilings for lifts, proper ventilation, and adequate electrical service. Plan for both 120V and 240V circuits sized for lifts, compressors, welders, and chargers.

Inspect any potential space carefully. Check for oil stains that suggest environmental contamination. Look at the condition of bay doors, flooring, and drains. Water damage or foundation issues cost thousands to repair.

Negotiate lease terms. Most commercial leases run 3 to 5 years. Try to include renewal options and caps on rent increases. Ask about improvement allowances where the landlord helps fund renovations.

Before signing anything, verify zoning allows automotive repair. Get this confirmation in writing from the zoning office. Some properties seem perfect but have restrictions that prevent shop operations.

Plan your layout for efficiency. Position your office where you can see the bays and customer entrance. Create a clean waiting area separate from the workspace. Customers notice these details.

Install proper drainage and waste disposal systems that comply with environmental regulations and local codes. Illicit discharges to storm sewers are prohibited; shop floor drains must route to approved treatment or sanitary systems per local code.

Budget for signage that clearly identifies your business. Most municipalities require sign permits. Requirements and costs vary by city, so verify locally.

Step 7: Invest in Quality Equipment and Tools

Equipment quality directly affects work quality. Cheap tools break, costing you time and money. Buy the best you can afford, and be strategic.

Vehicle lifts are one of your biggest purchases. Two-post lifts often run $2,000–$6,000 and work well for general service. Four-post lifts are typically $2,500–$10,000+ and offer more stability for heavy vehicles. Start with one or two lifts and expand as business grows.

Diagnostic scanners are essential for modern vehicles. Entry-level professional units start around $1,600 and advanced capabilities can reach $4,000+. Verify current pricing with vendors before budgeting.

Hand tools form your foundation. A comprehensive mechanic’s tool set often runs $10,000 to $20,000. Include wrenches, sockets, specialty tools, and power tools. Some shops require mechanics to supply their own hand tools.

Air compressors power pneumatic tools. Budget $2,000 to $12,000 for a quality compressor with adequate capacity. Undersized compressors create constant frustration.

Additional equipment includes brake lathes, tire changers, wheel balancers, and parts washers. Each piece can add $500 to $5,000 to your startup costs. Prioritize based on your services.

Consider buying quality used equipment to reduce costs. Auctions of closing shops offer opportunities. Inspect carefully and verify everything works before purchasing.

Office equipment matters too. Invest in reliable computers, shop management software, a payment processing system, and basic furniture. Budget $3,000 to $8,000 for office setup.

Step 8: Understand Environmental Compliance

Auto shops generate hazardous waste that requires careful handling. Failing to comply with environmental regulations brings heavy fines and potential closure.

The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) governs hazardous waste management. Your shop likely generates used oil, antifreeze, solvents, batteries, filters, and contaminated rags. Each has specific handling requirements.

Determine your generator status based on monthly hazardous waste volume. Most shops qualify as small quantity generators—about 100 to 1,000 kg per month (≈220 to 2,200 lb per month). This status requires proper storage, labeling, and disposal but has fewer requirements than large generators.

Set up used-oil collection properly. Used oil isn’t hazardous if managed correctly. Store it in marked containers/tanks and contract with licensed recyclers for pickup. Never mix used oil with solvents or other chemicals.

Oil filters and batteries require special handling. Manage used oil filters under the federal exclusion if they’re hot-drained per 40 CFR 261.4(b)(13). Handle lead-acid and certain other batteries under Universal Waste rules (40 CFR 273) or applicable state programs; many suppliers accept returns when you buy new units.

Establish relationships with licensed hazardous waste haulers for materials that need special disposal. Keep manifests and disposal records for at least 3 years as required by RCRA and your state.

Create spill response procedures. Stock absorbent materials and know whom to call if a major spill occurs. Train all employees on proper handling of chemicals and waste.

Contact your state environmental agency for a compliance inspection before opening. They’ll verify your waste handling systems meet requirements and can answer specific questions.

Step 9: Build Supplier Relationships

Quality parts make quality repairs possible. Your supplier network determines whether you can get parts quickly at competitive prices.

Start by identifying local auto parts wholesalers. Visit their locations and meet the counter staff. Build relationships with sales representatives who can expedite orders and offer advice.

Choose between OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts and aftermarket alternatives. OEM parts guarantee exact fit and performance but cost more. Quality aftermarket brands offer savings while maintaining standards. Your choice affects pricing and customer satisfaction.

Establish accounts with multiple suppliers. Diversification prevents disruption when one supplier lacks a part. Many shops work with three to five primary suppliers plus specialty vendors for harder-to-find items.

Negotiate payment terms carefully. Most suppliers offer net 30 or net 60 day terms once you establish credit. This cash flow buffer helps during slow periods.

Ask about return policies before ordering. Mistakes happen. Generous return policies save money when you order the wrong parts.

Join purchasing groups or networks if available. These organizations negotiate volume discounts and provide support services to independent shops.

Research online parts catalogs and ordering systems. Modern shops use technology to compare prices and check availability instantly across multiple suppliers.

Step 10: Obtain Professional Certifications

Technical certifications aren’t always legally required but dramatically improve credibility and capabilities. Customers trust certified professionals more than uncertified mechanics.

ASE (National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence) certification is the industry gold standard. ASE offers over 40 different certifications covering various systems and vehicle types. Each requires passing a written exam and documenting work experience.

Individual certification fees are typically about $59 per test, with a registration fee of about $34 per testing window. Tests must be renewed every 5 years to maintain certification.

Master Technician status comes from passing eight specific ASE tests. This achievement signals comprehensive expertise and can support premium pricing.

While not mandatory for shop owners, having ASE-certified technicians improves your shop’s reputation and may help secure better insurance rates and financing terms.

Some states require specific technician licenses beyond ASE certification. Check your state’s motor vehicle department for local requirements.

Consider manufacturer-specific training if you’ll specialize in certain brands. Many automakers offer certification programs that authorize you as an approved service center.

Step 11: Create Your Brand Identity

Your brand tells customers what to expect before they ever visit. Professional branding separates successful shops from forgettable ones.

Choose a memorable business name that reflects your values and services. Keep it simple, easy to spell, and meaningful to your community.

Design a professional logo that works across all materials. Consider hiring a designer rather than using generic templates. Your logo appears on signs, uniforms, invoices, and marketing materials.

Develop a cohesive visual identity with consistent colors and fonts. A professional corporate ID, builds trust.

Create essential marketing materials before opening. Order business cards, uniforms with your logo, and estimate forms. Set up a basic website with your services, location, and contact information. Even a simple online presence matters because most customers research shops online before visiting. Learn strategies for building your brand through effective corporate identity materials.

Develop a system for collecting customer reviews. Happy customers who share their experiences online become your best marketing tool.

Step 12: Prepare for Opening Day

The final weeks before opening require focus on details. Create checklists so nothing falls through the cracks.

Verify all licenses and permits are approved and posted where required. Failure to display required documentation can trigger fines or closure.

Conduct a test run of all equipment. Verify lifts operate smoothly, diagnostic tools connect properly, and air tools have adequate pressure. Fix problems now rather than in front of your first customer.

Stock initial inventory of common parts and fluids. Order oil filters, air filters, brake pads, batteries, and frequently used fluids. Balance inventory investment carefully. Excess inventory ties up cash, but shortages frustrate customers.

Set up your shop management system and payment processing. Test credit card machines and ensure your computer system tracks repairs accurately. Practice creating estimates and invoices until the process flows smoothly.

Establish your pricing structure. Research competitor rates for common services. Price competitively, but don’t undervalue your expertise. Quality work deserves fair compensation.

Train on customer service procedures. Decide how you’ll greet customers, communicate repair needs, and handle concerns. Every interaction shapes your reputation.

Create an emergency contact list. Include suppliers, equipment repair services, insurance agents, and your attorney. When problems arise, quick access to help minimizes disruption.

Perform a final walk-through with fresh eyes. Does your shop look clean and organized? Are safety hazards addressed? Would you bring your own vehicle here?

Plan a soft opening before your official launch. Offer discounted services to friends, family, and local businesses. This trial run reveals operational issues while building word-of-mouth.

Schedule your grand opening strategically. Avoid opening during holiday periods when potential customers travel. Consider hosting an event with refreshments and giveaways to attract initial traffic.

Final Thoughts: Building Excellence from Day One

Starting an auto repair shop challenges you physically, mentally, and financially. For those who value craftsmanship and take pride in solving problems, few businesses offer more satisfaction.

Remember that your reputation forms with every vehicle you touch. A comeback for poor work costs far more than doing it right the first time. Invest in quality tools, proper training, and thorough diagnosis. Shortcuts destroy businesses faster than any other factor.

Your technical skills brought you this far. Now you need business skills too. Stay organized, track expenses carefully, and build systems that support growth. Consider reviewing a new business checklist to ensure you’ve covered all critical startup elements.

The first year will test your resolve. Some weeks you’ll question everything. Other days you’ll remember exactly why you started this journey. Keep focused on delivering exceptional service, and customers will find you.

Welcome to entrepreneurship. Your shop, your rules, your reputation. Build something worth being proud of.

101 Tips for Running Your Auto Repair Shop

Opening an auto repair shop can be rewarding if you plan well, keep tight operations, and earn trust one customer at a time.

Use these practical tips to move from idea to execution. Each one focuses on what to do, why it matters, and how to do it. Keep it simple, document your process, and build steady, honest growth.

What to Do Before Starting

1. Define your business model early—general repair, specialty (brakes, transmissions, EVs), or fleet—so your tools, staffing, and location all match the plan.
2. Map your local demand by counting competitors, their specialties, hours, and review trends to find gaps you can fill.
3. Choose a location with easy access, visible signage, safe ingress/egress, and enough bays for expected volume plus growth.
4. Estimate startup costs by category—leasehold improvements, lifts, diagnostic tools, inventory, management software, licenses—and add a 15% contingency.
5. Build a 6 to 12 month cash runway; slow seasons and ramp-up often take longer than you expect.
6. Draft a simple financial model with weekly car count, Average Repair Order (ARO), parts margin, labor rate, and gross margin targets.
7. Check zoning and permitting requirements for auto repair, paint, spray booths, and hazardous waste storage; rules vary by state and city.
8. Price shop insurance early—general liability, garagekeepers, property, workers’ comp, cyber—so premiums are in your budget.
9. Decide on your legal structure with a pro; many shops use an LLC or corporation to limit liability and separate finances.
10. Create a tool-and-equipment priority list; buy must-haves, lease nice-to-haves, and plan upgrades as revenue grows.
11. Pick a shop management system that handles estimates, labor guides, parts ordering, inspections, and reporting from day one.
12. Write your first 10 SOPs (intake, inspection, estimate approval, parts ordering, repair Quality Control, billing, warranty, comebacks, waste handling, closing).

What Successful Auto Repair Shop Owners Do

13. Set a target ARO and track it daily; use inspections and customer education to raise value ethically.
14. Review Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) weekly: car count, ARO, technician efficiency, parts-to-labor mix, gross margin, and callbacks.
15. Hold a 15-minute daily huddle to align bays, parts status, promise times, and special cases.
16. Invest in technician training and ASE certifications; skills raise quality, speed, and pricing power.
17. Standardize digital vehicle inspections with photos to build trust and support approvals.
18. Negotiate with multiple parts suppliers for price, fill rate, and delivery speed; diversify risk.
19. Share numbers with your team so they know targets and how to hit them; tie bonuses to shop KPIs.
20. Guard your reputation by responding to every review and fixing legitimate issues fast.
21. Schedule preventive maintenance marketing to smooth seasonality and keep bays full.
22. Audit your workflow monthly to remove bottlenecks from check-in to pickup.

Running the Business (Operations, Staffing, SOPs)

23. Set posted labor rates and a clear menu for common jobs; price consistently to avoid disputes.
24. Use labor guides to estimate hours and note when work is book time vs. actual time.
25. Create a written parts markup policy by cost tier and use it consistently in your system.
26. Separate duties: one person approves parts orders, another reconciles vendor statements.
27. Label, date, and shelf special-order parts; track returns to avoid dead inventory.
28. Maintain a core inventory of fast-moving items—filters, fluids, belts, wipers—to reduce delays.
29. Adopt a bay scheduling board that shows vehicle, job, tech, status, and promise time.
30. Use checklists at intake to record mileage, warning lights, damage, and customer concerns in their words.
31. Require written estimates and approvals; document declined work to revisit later.
32. Run a formal Quality Control (QC) step: a second set of eyes verifies repairs, torque specs, and road test notes.
33. Keep torque wrenches calibrated and log equipment maintenance..
34. Stock OEM-approved fluids and note when alternatives meet spec.
35. Implement a comeback protocol: triage first, fix priority, document root cause, and learn from it.
36. Stage cars with keys, RO, and parts ready before a tech touches the job to maximize billable time.
37. Recruit year-round; build relationships with trade schools and military transition programs.
38. Define tech ladders (apprentice to master) with pay bands tied to skills and certifications.
39. Run payroll with clocked labor hours separate from billed hours to measure efficiency accurately.
40. Close the day with a parts return sweep, bay reset, and next-day schedule review.

What to Know About the Industry (Rules, Seasons, Supply, Risks)

41. Expect parts supply volatility; have two backups for critical lines and set reorder points.
42. Understand warranty norms: shop warranty vs. parts manufacturer warranty; communicate both.
43. Know the rules for hazardous waste storage and disposal; document manifests and pickup schedules.
44. Keep Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and chemical labels current and accessible to staff.
45. Plan for seasonality: AC peaks in summer, batteries and tires in winter; stock accordingly.
46. Follow safety standards for lifts, jacks, and lockout/tagout; train and document annually.
47. Monitor right-to-repair developments and OEM data access; it affects diagnostics and pricing (e.g., state data access laws and ongoing FTC right-to-repair priorities announced in 2021).
48. Check state inspection and emissions rules; build services around local compliance needs.
49. Track recalls and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) during diagnostics to avoid misdiagnosis and missed safety issues.
50. Price shop supplies transparently. Explain what the fee covers to prevent billing friction.

Marketing (Local, Digital, Offers, Community)

51. Claim and complete your business profiles with accurate Name, Address, Phone (NAP), hours, services, and photos.
52. Ask for reviews after successful visits; use QR codes at the counter and in follow-up messages.
53. Publish clear service pages for each specialty—diagnostics, brakes, hybrids, fleet—so you rank for local searches.
54. Offer a simple new-customer inspection at a fair price to build trust and a relationship.
55. Use before-and-after photos (with permission) in posts to show results, not just talk about them.
56. Run maintenance reminders by mileage and time; include helpful explanations, not just discounts.
57. Partner with nearby businesses—detailers, car washes, tire shops—for referral loops.
58. Track marketing by source on every Repair Order (RO); stop spend that doesn’t convert within 60 to 90 days.
59. Promote fleet services with priority scheduling, consolidated billing, and driver-friendly hours.
60. Host a car-care clinic for new drivers; education builds goodwill and long-term clients.
61. Use geo-targeted ads around your service area and commuter routes during peak hours.
62. Keep your website fast, mobile-friendly, and easy to book; fewer clicks mean more appointments.
63. Offer transparent financing options for larger repairs and explain terms clearly.
64. Highlight warranties and certifications in your lobby and online to support your pricing.

Dealing with Customers (Trust, Education, Retention)

65. Listen first; repeat the customer’s concern back to confirm you captured it correctly.
66. Use plain language in estimates; avoid jargon unless you define it in one short sentence.
67. Send photos and short videos in your inspection so customers see what you see.
68. Provide good-better-best options when appropriate and explain trade-offs honestly.
69. Give realistic promise times; under-promise and update proactively if anything changes.
70. Explain preventive work by tying it to safety, cost avoidance, or warranty protection.
71. Respect budgets; prioritize safety items, then reliability, then convenience.
72. Record preferred communication method (text, call, email) and stick to it.
73. Follow up 3 days after pickup to check results and ask for a review if satisfied.
74. Track declined work and remind customers at the right mileage/time intervals.

Customer Service (Policies, Guarantees, Feedback)

75. Post a clear warranty policy with coverage, time/miles, and exclusions customers can understand.
76. State your diagnostic policy—paid inspection vs. free code scan—so expectations are set.
77. Publish turn-around norms for common jobs and note that complex diagnostics may vary.
78. Offer shuttle, rideshare credits, or loaners when possible to reduce friction.
79. Keep customers informed at each status change: received, inspected, parts ordered, in-bay, QC, ready.
80. Handle complaints with a single point of contact, written notes, and a fair resolution window.
81. Survey customers quarterly and share results with the team; reward improvements.
82. Make payment easy: cards, contactless, financing, and online approvals with e-sign.

Sustainability (Waste, Sourcing, Long-Term)

83. Store and recycle used oil, filters, coolant, and batteries per rules; keep logs of pickups.
84. Use bulk fluids and reusable containers where safe to cut waste and costs.
85. Choose energy-efficient lighting and compressors; lower utility bills help margins.
86. Offer remanufactured parts when they meet spec and fit the customer’s goals.
87. Tune HVAC and install weather sealing to keep the shop comfortable and efficient.
88. Track waste fees and include them transparently on invoices with a brief explanation.

Staying Informed (Trends, Sources, Cadence)

89. Schedule monthly time to read service bulletins and OEM updates relevant to your mix of vehicles.
90. Join a peer group or association to benchmark KPIs and share solutions.
91. Attend at least two technical trainings per year per tech; build a calendar and budget.
92. Watch emerging areas—Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) calibration, EV battery service, telematics—and plan if/when to add them.
93. Review changes in labor laws, taxes, and environmental rules annually with advisors.

Adapting to Change (Seasonality, Shocks, Competition, Tech)

94. Create a slow-season playbook: promotions, fleet outreach, and maintenance campaigns to stabilize car count.
95. Build a parts shortage plan: alternative brands, rebuilds, and customer scheduling flexibility.
96. Cross-train staff so vacations and illnesses don’t stall the shop.
97. Pilot new services with one bay and tight metrics before a full rollout.
98. Maintain offsite backups of management data and a paper fallback for writing ROs if systems go down.
99. Review competitors twice a year; adjust service mix or hours if the market shifts.

What Not to Do

100. Do not quote phone prices you cannot honor after inspection; state that final pricing follows a proper diagnosis.
101. Do not ignore safety or emissions rules to rush a job; fines and reputation damage cost more than delays.
102. Do not let comebacks hide in the schedule; track, investigate root causes, and correct the process.

Sources:
ASE, EPA, OSHA, NHTSA, SBA, IRS, FTC, AAA, I-CAR, NFIB, California BAR,  Identifix