Hi all I just opened a mechanic shop and had a question for all you mechanics out there. I’m young with 5 years in the business working as a mechanic also certified and graduated in this field. I just opened a mechanic shop and don’t really know what my pricing should be per hour. How do you generally quote your jobs? Is it by hour? By job? If I get a quart of oil for $2 what should I sell it for? 30% markup? 40%? Any advice will help. Also I know it depends on the area, if it helps, I’m located in the north east.
You’re smart if you’re asking these questions. Mark up of 30% is reasonable for most stuff but some things are okay to mark up much more than that. Trust your judgement, fluids shouldn’t be where you make your money. Brake pads, rotors and radiators should be more of a money maker if that helps give an idea. Hourly rates can vary a lot depending on where you’re located and what you’re specializing in, if you have people in the business local to you don’t be afraid to call and ask what they charge per hour. Be up front and honest and for the most part, guys in the business will try to help you and the ones who don’t are scared you’ll steal their work or something and probably aren’t all that successful anyway. Congrats for taking a risk and betting on yourself, I’m rooting for you.