Mechanic Advisor

What Are The Benefits and Drawbacks Of Mobile Mechanics?

Posted July 22, 2014 by Ken Kupchik



Mobile automotive service is most frequently associated with mobile detailing or mobile windshield and glass repair. However, mobile mechanics have become more popular in the last 5 or 6 years than ever before, possibly as a combination of the economic necessities spurned by the recession, and the technological culture shift towards customer convenience. Whatever the reason, you may wish to consider hiring a mobile mechanic the next time you need routine vehicle maintenance or repairs. There are, however, certain advantages and disadvantages that are unique to mobile mechanics, here they are:

Advantages

The most obvious advantage to hiring a mobile mechanic to service your car is the price. Since mobile mechanics do not have the added overhead of a facility and everything that comes along with it, prices are significantly lower than at a physical shop. While the cost savings will range, they can be anywhere from 20% to 40% cheaper for the same services. Payment can be processed quite simply with software that accepts payment through a mobile device, and receipts can be printed or hand-written as well. A competent mobile mechanic will offer a warranty on their work, and will be fully insured for liability and damages. 

Another major advantage is the convenience factor. Mobile mechanics come to you, and are even able to work on your vehicle while you're at work, assuming your office is in an area conducive to such work. This eliminates the need to take time from work, school, or other responsibilities in order to service your car, and can save you a significant amount of money this way as well. Mobile mechanics can work on more than just cars, some offering motorcycle, boat, and even RV services. Mobile mechanics go into the mobile repair business because they can't, or don't want to assume the burden that comes with running a physical location, including payroll, rent, etc. 

Disadvantages 

There are some minor drawbacks to working with a mobile mechanic for auto repair. The most glaring disadvantage is the limit on access to certain equipment which is typically found in a physical mechanic shop. Mobile mechanics will have trucks or vans with lots of high-tech tools, but they do not have a lift like a shop would, nor do they always have the complex computer systems typically found in a shop. Additionally, if a mobile mechanic is working alone, there could be a limitation on certain jobs that require more than one tech to complete. 

Overall, however, a mobile mechanic is an excellent choice for most consumers looking for convenient and affordable car repair. When searching for a mobile mechanic, check for certifications like ASE, and read their reviews on Yelp, Mechanic Advisor, or Angie's List. Feel free to ask for references, and always confirm that parts and labor are warrantied. As the customer desire for convenience grows, so will the mobile mechanic side of the automotive repair industry, so the level of comfort with such services will also increase. We have many great mobile mechanics in our database, so feel free to reach out for an estimate at any time. 

MechanicAdvisor.com is one of the largest online mechanic resources in the US. We are the premier website for consumers to research and connect with reputable local mechanics for routine and specialty automotive repair. Our website features instructional videos, articles about maintaining your car, and detailed profiles of over 500,000 mechanics across the country. If you're a shop owner, please claim your shop page for free here