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Welcome to the Shop Talk Blog

Driving Business Outcomes for Over 8,000 Vehicle Service Locations

Increase revenues, improve efficiency, and stay connected with your customers.

Welcome to the Shop Talk Blog

Driving Business Outcomes for Over 8,000 Vehicle Service Locations

Increase revenues, improve efficiency, and stay connected with your customers.

BOLT ON attending SEMA/AAPEX 2024
News & Events, Efficiency, Auto Repair, Industry, Technology

BOLT ON at SEMA/AAPEX 2024

Join BOLT ON at SEMA/AAPEX 2024 for Game-Changing Auto Shop Solutions The excitement is building for the automotive industry’s largest show, and BOLT ON Technology is ready to take the floor at SEMA / AAPEX 2024! This year, we’re showcasing how our...

Efficiency, Auto Repair, Technology

Chaos to Control: Choosing the Right Auto Repair Software

The Modern Shop Dilemma: Chaos vs. Control Let’s face it, managing an auto repair shop can sometimes be a hassle: disorganized schedules, miscommunication, and delayed invoicing lead to lost revenue and unhappy clients. It's not just about fixing...

Auto Repair, Recruitment & Training

6 Factors to Consider When Purchasing Auto Repair Software

Investing in an efficient Shop Management System (SMS) can revolutionize the operations of your auto repair shop, streamlining processes from customer invoicing to parts ordering and inventory tracking. Beyond these basic functions, some systems...

Customer Service, Auto Repair, Recruitment & Training

How Reviews Impact Your Auto Shop Marketing

Customer reviews do more than just give voice to your clients; they play a pivotal role in shaping your auto repair shop's reputation and SEO strategy. Here's why prioritizing customer feedback can not only boost your ranking on search engines but...

Customer Retention, Auto Repair, Recruitment & Training

Using Digital Vehicle Inspections for Fall Car Care Month

As small auto repair shop owners, you know that the transition to colder months means an uptick in vehicle maintenance requests. October’s Fall Car Care Month is an opportune time to demonstrate the value of thorough vehicle care to your customers....

Customer Service, Business Ownership, Technology

How to Overcome Common Shop Challenges with Auto Repair Shop Software

Keeping your auto repair shop running smoothly while attracting new customers remains a top priority for most auto repair shop owners. But making things more efficient, retaining service technicians, turning new customers into repeat customers, and,...

Marketing, Customer Retention, Business Ownership

Tech-Savvy Auto Shops: How CRM for Auto Repair Shops is Transforming the Industry

The daily hustle of managing an auto repair shop goes beyond just getting cars back on the road. It’s about targeting new clients, creating seamless customer experiences, and staying organized behind the scenes. That’s where Customer Relationship...

Marketing

Tools of the Trade: DVI Software and Other Game-Changing Innovations

Owning an auto repair shop means more than just knowing how to fix cars; it’s about using the right tools to make your business run smoothly and keep customers satisfied. Digital Vehicle Inspection (DVI) software is one of those tools that can...

Customer Service, Auto Repair, Business Ownership

9 Ways to Increase Your Average Auto Repair Order

Increasing your average repair order is a key strategy for enhancing your auto repair shop’s profitability and efficiency. By focusing on a thorough approach to vehicle care, you ensure every aspect of a vehicle’s needs is addressed. This not only...

Marketing, Business Ownership

9 Auto Repair Advertising Mistakes to Avoid

Advertising can have a big impact on how well your auto repair shop does. Getting it right means attracting more customers and boosting revenue. To maximize your return on investment and build a stronger customer base, let’s take a look at nine...

Digital Vehicle Inspections, Business Ownership

Transform Your Quick Lube Shop with Digital Vehicle Inspections

Let's face it, running a quick lube shop these days is about more than just changing oil. To get customers through the door and keep them coming back, your quick lube shop needs to provide more than just basic services. Digital vehicle inspections...

Auto Repair, Business Ownership

Succession Plans for Your Auto Repair Shop

In a recent industry study conducted by BOLT ON Technology and PTEN Magazine, more than half of shop-owning respondents indicated that they plan to retire in the next ten years. While many shop owners will be moving into the next stage of their...

Customer Service, Digital Vehicle Inspections

How to Build Trust Through Digital Vehicle Inspections

We’re all familiar with the stereotype of the crooked mechanic. The sad fact is, many people feel wary about visiting repair shops. They worry about the honesty of the services offered and whether they are getting their money's worth. This concern...

Auto Repair

Overcoming Negative Perception In Auto Repair

Let's be honest—the auto repair industry doesn't always have the best reputation. For many consumers, taking their vehicle in for service conjures up fears of being ripped off, misleading advice, or shoddy workmanship. As a shop owner, overcoming...

Auto repair tech setting expectations with customer
Customer Service, Digital Vehicle Inspections

Using Auto Repair Software to Set Customer Expectations

The importance of setting expectations for your customers cannot be understated. The absence of good communication can often lead to customers feeling anxious because they are left out of the loop. By relaying information regularly, however,...

client and small shop owner shaking hands over digital vehicle inspection service
Customer Service, Digital Vehicle Inspections

Boosting Auto Shop Visits with Vehicle Inspection Software

Finding ways to attract more customers to your auto repair shop is crucial for success. One effective method is through the use of vehicle inspection software. This technology can streamline your inspection processes and improve customer...

How to Build An Auto Shop Marketing Plan
Marketing, Customer Service, Customer Retention

How to Build An Auto Shop Marketing Plan

Running an auto repair shop these days is about more than just turning wrenches. To really get customers through the door and keep 'em coming back, you need a smart game plan. To attract new customers and retain existing ones, you need a...

Customer Service, Auto Repair

Why Repair Shops Avoid Using Automotive Shop Software

The automotive industry continues to rapidly progress when it comes to technology. But while vehicles and equipment are becoming more advanced, you may be resistant to adopting new automotive shop software and technology that could vastly improve...

How Automotive Repair Shop Reviews Impact Your Bottom Line
Reviews

How Automotive Repair Shop Reviews Impact Your Bottom Line

Let's face it, when you're an auto repair shop owner, your reputation is everything. Think about it — you're asking customers to hand over the keys to one of their most valuable possessions and trust you with getting their vehicle back into tip-top...

What’s Included in a Digital Vehicle Inspection?
Digital Vehicle Inspections

What’s Included in a Digital Vehicle Inspection?

As an auto repair shop owner, you're likely still using the traditional paper inspection method that has been around for decades. Technicians mark down issues on a printed checklist form as they manually inspect each component of the vehicle. While...

person sending email
Marketing

How Marketing Automation Can Transform Customer Retention in Auto Repair

Keeping customers coming back is the lifeline of any auto repair shop. With countless options available, how do you ensure that clients choose your shop every time? The key lies in going the extra mile, and this is where marketing automation comes...

Auto Shop Marketing: Tips for Recapturing Declined Auto Services
Customer Retention

Auto Shop Marketing: Tips for Recapturing Declined Auto Services

Every auto shop faces the challenge of declined services, but what if you could turn these missed opportunities into chances for growth and customer loyalty? The digital revolution is here, equipping shops with smarter solutions to overcome the...

calendar with the 15th of the month circled in red and a person holding a pen
Customer Service, Customer Retention

Recapture Missed Appointments With Auto Repair Software

Missed appointments are the bane of any auto repair shop's existence. They create scheduling headaches and can negatively impact many areas of your business. Fortunately, there are innovative solutions for managing appointments and enhancing...

person paying with a credit card
Customer Service

How to Choose the Best Payment Processing Software for Your Auto Shop

Navigating the sea of payment processing options can be daunting, but it's a vital step in ensuring the success and efficiency of your auto service business. The right payment processing software does more than just handle transactions; it enhances...

How To Find and Target Your Customers With Automotive CRM Software
Marketing

How To Find and Target Your Customers With Automotive CRM Software

As an auto repair shop owner, you know how important it is to consistently find and target new customers. That's why we've put together a few ideas designed to help you discover new opportunities and enhance the great service you already provide.

vehicles on lifts in the back of an auto repair shop
Industry

Emerging Auto Repair Trends for 2024

As we approach 2024, it's crucial for technicians, service advisors, and repair shop owners to stay ahead of the curve in this rapidly changing industry. So, let's delve into the anticipated auto repair trends for the upcoming year, and explore what...

technician holding a tablet
Technicians

Tips To Getting Your Technicians to Adopt Auto Repair Software

In the ever-changing automotive industry, you know integrating auto repair software isn't just a choice — it's a must. But, convincing your team? Well, that's a whole different story. Let's be real, getting techs on board can be a bit tricky. We all...

person using a wrench on an engine
Customer Service, Digital Vehicle Inspections

Top Auto Repairs Your Customers Are Most Skeptical About

As an auto repair shop owner, you know that building trust with customers is essential for long-term success. In an industry often plagued by skepticism and misconceptions, it's crucial to address common concerns and showcase your shop's commitment...

person holding a tablet with data symbols floating above
Efficiency

How To Use Your Shop's Data to Improve Operations

In order to grow your business, you have to get to know your business on a deeper level. That's right, we're talking about the data. Knowing more about your shop's overall performance, customers, and more can help you drive the change you've been...

7 Tips To Grow Shop Revenue Blog
Revenue & ROI, Digital Vehicle Inspections, Recruitment & Training

Tips to Grow Auto Shop Revenue

BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY’s automotive repair software is a guaranteed tool that will boost profits, increase productivity, retain customers and help you communicate with customers easier than ever.

Auto Repair Shop Software: Tips to Increase Auto Shop Productivity
Digital Vehicle Inspections

Auto Repair Shop Software: Tips to Increase Auto Shop Productivity

Sometimes, it's hard to keep productivity high in your auto repair shop, especially in the dead heat of the summer. Bays aren’t usually air conditioned, so your team of hard working technicians are in the heat and humidity all day. The team at BOLT...

Dealership

4 Simple Ways to Improve Communication at Your Dealership

Establishing good communication for your dealership not only saves you time, but also can be a pathway to earning you more money. From your service advisors to your technicians, everyone has a busy day ahead of them most days—and sometimes when...

service advisor shaking a vehicle owner's hand
Customer Service

Prioritizing Customer Education at Your Dealership

If you want to increase your customer retention and sell more services, then customer education needs to be a priority at your dealership. Informing your customers, whether they're new or have been regulars for years can improve your operations and...

person accessing email on laptop
Marketing

How Effective Marketing Emails Can Make All The Difference

When you think about marketing your shop, you might often think about how you can attract new business. While focusing on new potential customers is necessary to grow and sustain your business, this isn't the only place where you should be focusing...

Invest in automotive marketing automation.
Marketing, Car Count, Customer Retention, Communication, Revenue & ROI

Stop Wasting Time, Start Investing in Automotive Marketing Automation

Are you still spending time on manual marketing tasks for your automotive shop? If you are, then it's time to start automating. Time is precious when you're trying to efficiently manage a business. Luckily, there are many ways you can implement...

front of tire and lube shop
Business Ownership

How To Grow Your Quick Lube Business

So you've decided you want to grow your oil change business, but aren't sure how to enact that change. Don't worry, we've all been there. You have the goals, ideas, and dreams...but are coming up a little short on the plans. It can be discouraging...

right to repair
News & Events

The Right To Repair Debate

There's a new hot topic tearing through our industry right now—Right To Repair. While it's not necessarily a new topic, it's currently causing many of us in the automotive sphere to stop and ponder the future. So what does right to repair mean for...

car repair estimate
Customer Service, Efficiency, Communication

Steps to Effectively Sharing a Car Repair Estimate with Your Customers

When it comes to sharing an estimate, this can be a stressful experience for not only the customer, but for the shop. It's a delicate part of the repair process, so as a result, it should be handled thoughtfully. Bringing your patience and taking...

digital vehicle inspection
Digital Vehicle Inspections

Optimizing Your Digital Vehicle Inspection Software

Your relationship with your digital vehicle inspection (DVI) software is like any other type of relationship—it takes a little work to make it thrive. Implementing your software will have you seeing results no matter what, but putting in the work to...

white fleet trucks in a parking lot
Efficiency, Fleet Repair

Increase Efficiency With Fleet Management Software

As a facility that exclusively services fleet vehicles, time is constantly on your mind. Thoughts surrounding how quickly a vehicle can be serviced, or how accurately you can predict the amount of time until its next needed service may be at the top...

digital shop
Business Ownership

Tips For Helping Your Shop Go Digital

Making the switch to become a digital shop can understandably come with some hesitations and frustrations. The way you've run your shop likely hasn't changed all that much before now, and making the leap to incorporate more auto repair technology...

Attract and Keep Quality Techs
Recruitment & Training

How to Hire and Retain Quality Automotive Technicians

If there's one thing that is bringing us together as an industry currently, it's the technician shortage. It's been an enduring problem for years now, and the automotive industry needs to proactively counteract the issue at hand. With the nationwide...

auto repair websites
Marketing, Auto Repair

Best Practices For Auto Shop Websites

We are in the digital age. Your shop is now a 24/7 business because your customers are searching for you online. What will they find? BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY's auto shop website solution offers shops the ability to build out websites that are already...

electric vehicles
Business Ownership

Preparing Your Shop for the Growth of Electric Vehicles

Many decades ago the electric car felt like a far off futuristic dream. We've heard talk throughout the years of electric cars and their benefits, but somehow the idea never took root in the industry. Internal combustion engines have had the lay of...

choosing shop management software
Business Ownership

Factors To Consider When Choosing a Shop Management Software

As a business owner, you've always worked to set your auto repair shop apart from your competitors. Your shop has its own way of getting the job done, and the right shop management system should sufficiently gel with the way you conduct your...

how to start an auto repair business
Business Ownership

How To Start An Auto Repair Business

Fixing vehicles has been your passion for a long time, so is it time for you to start your own auto repair shop? Possibly! Going from employee to shop owner can be a bit of a shock to the system if you've never done it before, but that doesn't mean...

paperless auto repair shop
Efficiency

Steps To Going Paperless At Your Auto Repair Shop

It's true, going green is all the rage these days. But while it has a lot of benefits for the environment, there are also a ton of benefits for your shop. Making the shift from paper to digital may take an adjustment period, but when all is said and...

service advisor tools
Efficiency

Do Your Service Advisors Have The Tools They Need?

As the liaison between customers and technicians, service advisors have a lot on their plate most days. Not only are they working hard to meet the needs of the customer, but also to track and manage the flow of work from drop-off to pick up.

google my business for auto repair shop
Marketing

Why You Need Google My Business For Your Auto Repair Shop

If you want to become a successful independent auto repair shop, it’s essential that you have your sights on not only developing a long-term strategy for expanding your customer base but also pivoting in a way that has sustaining momentum.

Auto Repair, Digital Vehicle Inspections

How Carrier Filtering Impacts Your Texting with Customers

Carrier filtering can be a stressful feature for business owners attempting to communicate with their customers via text messaging. We’ll break down the what, why, and how so you’re aware of this feature implemented by wireless carriers and the...

market an auto repair shop
Marketing

How To Market An Auto Repair Business

Every shop knows that marketing an auto repair shop comes with unique challenges. Competition can often be high, leaving your shop with the need to have an air-tight marketing plan in order to be seen and heard. In addition, with many services that...

Improving Your Dealership's Efficiency and Profitability
Efficiency, Revenue & ROI, Digital Vehicle Inspections

Improving Your Dealership's Efficiency and Profitability

As the old saying goes, time is money. The less time you spend on time-consuming tasks, the more time you can invest in other parts of your business. While improving efficiency within your dealership can lead to a greater profitability—you'll also...

Factors that Affect Your Average Repair Shop-1
Digital Vehicle Inspections

Factors That Affect Your Average Repair Order

When it comes to measuring the success of your auto repair shop, the Average Repair Order (ARO) is one of the most important metrics. Now, you may know that if your automotive repair shop focuses on increasing the average RO, you’ll run a more...

dealership software
Revenue & ROI, Digital Vehicle Inspections, Dealership

Choosing The Right Digital Inspection Software For Your Dealership

After a vehicle is driven off the lot by a happy new owner, as a dealership you can feel moderately secure you'll see them again over the next couple of years for maintenance. But what comes after that initial honeymoon period an owner has with your...

increase repair orders
Revenue & ROI

How Can I Improve My Reporting?

For shops looking to grow, having a crystal clear idea of where you currently fall is important. We know that goals cannot be vague ballpark ideas if we ever want to see measurable results. Unfortunately, default reporting from a shop management...

two way texting

How Two Way Texting Can Lead to Dynamic Customer Relationships

Technology is ever-evolving, and as a result, the way we communicate needs to evolve too. For many people, messaging is the means of communication of the day. Sure, people still talk on their phones in the way that was originally intended, but take...

covid-19 safety precautions
COVID-19, Auto Repair, Digital Vehicle Inspections

Auto Repair Shop COVID-19 Safety Precautions

Starting in spring of 2020, shops have had to drastically change the way they do business. Amidst all the shutdowns, shops across the nation were able to keep their doors open as essential businesses. While open to customers, auto repair in the...

auto repair industry
COVID-19, Auto Repair, Business Ownership

Predicting the Auto Repair Industry Trends for 2021

If we've learned anything this year, it's to expect the unexpected. Any plans or predictions we made for 2020 in 2019 were more or less dashed beginning in March of 2020 in the wake of COVID-19. So at this point, when we look to 2021, we may feel an...

sales tips in auto repair
Auto Repair

Make Selling Easy For Your Service Advisors

Selling can often feel like an uphill battle when it comes to auto repair services. The average customer is relatively uninformed about their vehicle and a lot of what service advisors attempt to communicate goes over their heads. The general lack...

convert visitor
Digital Vehicle Inspections

Tips To Convert Visitors On Your Auto Repair Shop Website

Your website shouldn't just be a window dressing—it should be an active member of your team. Visitors to your site are great, this means you're getting the visibility you desire. But, if views are all you're getting, you could be leaving money on...

auto repair software
Efficiency

How Auto Repair Software Helps Streamline Workflow In Your Shop

If you find yourself running into the same frustrations day after day, this could be a sign that your efficiency isn't what it could be. Oftentimes we tend to live with the grunt work that's repetitive and time-consuming and make peace that this is...

high volume
Efficiency

Better Handle High Volume Times At Your Auto Repair Shop

The dreaded rush is often inevitable. While we enjoy the fact that there is so much traffic coming into our showrooms, that doesn't mean we enjoy the chaos that follows. In the lull that follows a hectic morning, we're often left with the thought...

auto repair software
Customer Service, COVID-19, Auto Repair, Digital Vehicle Inspections

The Importance of Auto Repair Software After COVID-19

This year has turned the way we have to conduct business on its head. The reality is our day to day operations are no longer what they once were. There are new guidelines and procedures and the repair business as a whole has no choice but to adapt...

why your auto shop needs a website

Why Your Auto Repair Shop Needs a Website

If a business or organization doesn't have a web presence in 2020, it's almost as if they do not exist. The internet has become so integrated into our daily lives, that if we are not active participants in it, we can miss out on opportunities and...

reopening your shop
Efficiency, COVID-19, Auto Repair, Business Ownership

'Reopening' Your Shop in a Post-COVID World

With the daily uncertainty of this evolving situation, shops need to stay fluid and flexible. In many places, the phases to reopening are well under way. But what does a phased reopening look like for shops everywhere?

customer communication
Customer Service, Customer Retention, Communication

Creating Customer Connections Through Communication

Customer retention is a high priority among shop owners, there's no doubt about that. We've all tried different avenues to ensure that crucial repeat business—discounts, rewards programs, etc. While those are no doubt effective means of customer...

train automotive professionals
Recruitment & Training, Business Ownership

Resources to Train Automotive Professionals

Once you've purchased BOLT ON TECHNOLOGY software for your shop, the next step is to further train your automotive professionals. Becoming familiar with the ins and outs of your new software and continuing to learn the best ways to achieve the goals...

drive traffic
Digital Vehicle Inspections

How to Drive Traffic to Your Automotive Site

It's the 21st Century, so you likely already have a website set up for your business. You know it's an essential item as a modern business owner, but how can you ensure that it's seen by potential customers? In order to make sure your website helps...

Digital Vehicle Inspections for Advisors
Auto Repair, Digital Vehicle Inspections

Benefits of Digital Vehicle Inspections for Advisors

The service advisor is the hub of your service process, their time and energy is invaluable for shop organization and productivity—which is why you want to make the most of it. Auto repair software, and specifically digital vehicle inspections, are...

Digital Vehicle Inspections for Techs
Auto Repair, Digital Vehicle Inspections

Benefits of Digital Vehicle Inspections for Techs

Digital vehicle inspections don't just make things easier for customers, service advisors and owners—they directly benefit technicians in major ways. For many techs, miscommunication or lack of communication between the shop and the customer as well...

customer retention vs customer acquisition
Customer Service, Customer Retention

Customer Retention vs. Customer Acquisition

When it comes to your customer base, there are certainly two things that are constantly on your mind: retention and acquisition. They’re both important for sustaining your shop, but what should be your primary focus? In the battle of customer...

mobile payments
Digital Vehicle Inspections

How Mobile Payments Can Make Your Auto Repair Shop More Efficient

Much like other aspects of a digital shop, the goal is to make sure all moving parts of your operations are running efficiently and seamlessly—and payments should be no different.

auto shop website
Customer Service, Digital Vehicle Inspections

What Should My Auto Shop Website Include?

To get the most out of your shop’s website, there are certainly some essential elements that you should consider implementing. The people coming to your auto shop website are seeking out more information for your shop, so what you make available is...

auto repair shop
Digital Vehicle Inspections

How To Improve Your Auto Repair Shop’s Performance

They say the biggest room in the world is the room for improvement. When it comes to growing your shop, sometimes this means looking to improve what you do and how you do it. The three top things on every owner’s mind are Average Repair Orders, car...

Auto Repair Software That Makes a Service Advisor’s Job Easier
Digital Vehicle Inspections

Auto Repair Software That Makes a Service Advisor’s Job Easier

Between corresponding with customers and communicating with technicians, service advisors have a lot on their plates. It can be easy to get bogged down in the little things and lose time and efficiency—feeling like they can never get ahead on work....

texting customers

3 Big Misconceptions About Texting Your Customers

When transitioning into a digital shop, there can be unknown territory that can cause a bit of uneasiness among owners and service advisors alike. For some, one of those areas of concern is texting customers. Most of us use it daily with our friends...

Auto Repair, Digital Vehicle Inspections

What Customers Are Looking For In an Auto Repair Shop

Keeping customers happy is the most important part of business ownership. As an owner, you’re likely always wondering how to better your customer experience to keep those loyal to your shop continuously happy while simultaneously bringing in and...

Business Ownership

How To Prepare Your Auto Shop For Success Before You Retire

You might be dreading it, or you might be looking forward to it. Either way, retirement is down the road at some point and it’s better to be prepared than unprepared, of course. But, well, where should you start? Prepare Early Ideally you should...

Digital Vehicle Inspections

How Shop Success Software Helps Retain Employees

With today’s shortage of qualified techs, you want to make sure the good ones you have stick around. While providing technicians with a comfortable and satisfying work environment is essential, have you considered the role technology can play in...

auto repair invoices
Auto Repair, Digital Vehicle Inspections

Mechanic Invoice Software for a Positive Customer Experience

Auto repair (mechanic) invoices are essential tools that auto repair shops use to collect payment for services performed. Traditionally, they have been simple paper invoices that both the auto repair shop and customers use to keep a record of the...

Copy of Copy of Untitled (2)
Car Count, Efficiency, Revenue & ROI

Should I Increase My Average Repair Order or Increase My Car Count?

As a shop owner, growing your business is always top of mind. A significant part of this growth involves increasing the revenue brought in by your shop through increasing your average repair order (ARO) and increasing your car count. If you're...

Multi-Location History and Recommendations
Digital Vehicle Inspections

New Advantages for Your Digital Vehicle Inspections

We've added even more firepower to your Digital Vehicle Inspections, starting with your techs being able to update vehicles statuses in your Workflow Manager. Your shop can also share tech and service advisor photos with customers, see when an...

Workflow Manager Steps
Digital Vehicle Inspections

New Workflow Manager Changes the Game

We've supercharged our Workflow Manager and are now able to deliver you an array of new advantages and business growth resources, all from one simple program. **These benefits are completely free for all Pro Pack and Mobile Manager Pro users.

sample header 6
Revenue & ROI, Business Ownership

How Do I Calculate My Auto Shop’s Gross Profit?

As the owner of an automotive repair shop, there are some significant numbers for you to know and track carefully. Among those numbers, one of the most important is your shop’s Gross Profit. Your gross profit is a reflection of your shop’s value....

successful auto repair business
Revenue & ROI, Auto Repair

How to Run a Successful Auto Repair Business

Many shop owners initially get into business for their general love of repairing cars, but day-to-day operations can take their toll. When shop owners let their days take control of their shop, they begin to feel one step behind. How much do we...

difficult services to sell
Auto Repair

Top 5 Hardest Auto Repair Services To Sell

It’s no secret that some services are harder to sell than others—but it really needs to be done, so how do you get your customers to buy in?

technician looking under vehicle with light
Auto Repair, Digital Vehicle Inspections

Biggest Pain Points in Auto Repair

Shop owners across the country all suffer from some of the same pain points in their automotive repair shop. It’s more than knowing what goals to set, or the best practices for communicating with a customer. It's fundamental, every day, mundane...

2019-03-28_0929
Revenue & ROI

How To Track Growth For Your Auto Shop

All shops want to grow, but what does growth mean to your shop? How does your team measure it? Choosing what metrics to track in your automotive repair shop can be tricky. Key performance indicators (KPIs), like average repair order and labor costs,...

Car Repair Software: Top Ways to Organize Auto Repair Invoices
Digital Vehicle Inspections

Car Repair Software: Top Ways to Organize Auto Repair Invoices

Invoicing is important for both your automotive repair shop and your customers. It’s a record of sale and services provided that can also act as a reminder for a customer’s next service, show future service recommendations, and offer an opportunity...

How to Increase Profit Margin in Auto Repair
Auto Repair

How to Increase Profit Margin in Auto Repair

You work tirelessly every day in your automotive repair shop to make ends meet. After the bills are paid, and your employees are compensated, what do you have left? Focusing on your average repair order (ARO) might not be enough to boost your...

Untitled design - 2019-02-19T153646.981
Revenue & ROI, Digital Vehicle Inspections

Benefits of Auto Repair Invoice Software

Invoicing is typically your customer’s least favorite part of their auto repair experience, but it doesn’t have to be your shop's. Take the frustration out of invoicing and explore all of the additional benefits to automating the process within your...

Untitled design (1)-2
Auto Repair, Digital Vehicle Inspections

Auto Repair Shops Embrace Paperless Technology

Is your automotive repair shop inundated with paper? Paper inspections, paper invoices…paper everywhere. It doesn’t have to be that way. Our suite of add-on automotive software solutions fully integrate with shop management systems and enable repair...

How Photos Improve Digital Vehicle Inspections
Revenue & ROI, Digital Vehicle Inspections

How Photos Improve Digital Vehicle Inspections

Did you know that something simple like attaching photos to your digital vehicle inspections can increase auto shop profits? This all-important task of snapping customer vehicle condition photos and sharing them, along with digital multi-point...

setting goals
Revenue & ROI

Setting Goals for Your Auto Repair Shop

The start of the year brings a renewed energy to many businesses. It's a time for reflecting on the past year and planning for what is to come in the new year. And while the opportunity for new beginnings is exciting, oftentimes, auto repair shops...

Auto Shop Marketing: Tips to Increase Car Count
Car Count, Efficiency, Revenue & ROI, Digital Vehicle Inspections

Auto Shop Marketing: Tips to Increase Car Count

The number one need for any automotive repair shop is always customers. How else would you make money? There are many ways to increase your gross sales, but most automotive repair shop owners will agree that the most common way to increase sales is...

Untitled design (1)-1
Marketing, Revenue & ROI, Digital Vehicle Inspections

How To Improve Rate of Retention at Auto Repair Shop

It's no secret that it's cheaper to earn repeat customers than it is to try to gain new ones. In fact, it can cost up to FIVE times as much to attract new customers to your automotive repair shop than to keep your current customers happily coming...

person using their phone to leave a 5 star review
Marketing, Customer Service

How To Gain Better Reviews at Your Auto Repair Shop

In an age where 92% of customers read auto shop reviews online before making a purchase decision, having a positive online reputation is critical for any auto repair business. Let's discuss some essential strategies for gaining better reviews and...

Auto Shop Marketing: Getting Involved in the Community
News & Events, Marketing, Recruitment & Training

Auto Shop Marketing: Getting Involved in the Community

The auto repair industry is a competitive market. Drivers are visiting shops less frequently each year and competitors are continuing to battle for their business. What is your repair shop doing to build and maintain relationships with your...

The Need for Automotive Repair Shop Software
Revenue & ROI, Auto Repair

The Need for Automotive Repair Shop Software

Vehicles are one of the original and most progressive forms of technology, dating all the way back to 1885 when Karl Benz first invented the gasoline automobile powered by an internal combustion engine. Technology is disrupting the automotive...

alldata header
News & Events

Full ALLDATA Repair Access Now Available with BOLT ON

Staying ahead of the growing complexity and constant changes when servicing vehicles is critical for today’s auto repair shop. Having immediate access to repair information is no longer a luxury, but a necessity.