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As I gain experience at my current job I can’t help but feel the tug of wanting to start a little ETCG-sized shop on the side.
Something that always appeals to me is the thought of specializing in a certain automotive area; brakes, trans rebuilds, suspension, certain makes of cars, etc.
What have you seen or done that really works (makes money) as an automotive specialty? Think beyond the “I know this old guy that can do it all” and more of the “this specific service is always needed and we could use more of it” kind of shops.
Specific examples really help. Names, links. Thanks!
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1. You need to select a make and model or makes and models that are owned by people who have money in their pockets. This doesn’t necessarily mean millionaires although they certainly qualify, it also includes young people living at home.
2. You need to provide a service (or parts) that isn’t/aren’t generally available. For example, say you are doing manual transmissions, be able to supply gears that change the ratios in the transmission, or be able to build the transmission to a state where it will take more abuse than the factory unit.
3. You need to advertise on the internet and connect with forums that support the vehicles you service. Be able to supply two way shipping containers for whatever part of the vehicle you service. If supplying parts know what you are selling to the extend that you can give good advice. Don’t ever sell parts you may have a hard time getting and never lie about the situation.
There’s a reason why you see a lot of German Car specialists. That’s because typically Mercedes and Porsche owners have a few bucks in the bank, and technicians that work on Fords or Chevrolets their whole life don’t like working on Volkswagen cars.
Where I am there is no shortage of specialty shops, for any make of European car, there’s even a Peugeot mechanic close by! I’ve put a good long think into a shop specializing in newer smaller diesel vehicles. Most of them currently are European, and or domestic with a European engine in them like the Fiat engine in the new Jeeps, or Vauxhaul engine in the Chevy Cruz. Sooner or later these cars will on on 2nd and 3rd owners and not going into the dealership for service or repair. And to be realistic, outside of specific dealer training right now not many people are trained on the newer Commonrail, TDI, blue tech stuff. Alot of programs for the truck and coach / heavy diesel repair apprentiship teaches Commonrail stuff but good luck getting a truck mechanic to work on your Mercedes, chances are tools aren’t small enough. Being a specialist in this area on a wide variety of vehicles could be a smart move. Repairs, maintanance, tuning, etc etc.
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