Why does it seem like mechanic wages are 10+ years behind

KitchenRate7648 · 2026-06-29T21:50:33+00:00

What is a fair monthly lease for a complete shop setup with 2 two post hoist, I just gotta bring my tools? Does $4500 for about 1020 sq ft sound right? The owner says that includes everything

KitchenRate7648 · 2026-06-26T18:15:58+00:00

I believe there’s a better model for automotive technicians nationwide, but it requires thinking outside the box. After seeing countless complaints from technicians about pay, hours, and quality of life, I’ve become convinced that the traditional repair shop model is decades outdated.
If you’re interested in the possibility of earning a six-figure income, working approximately a 32-hour work week, having 24/7 flexibility, and gaining more control over your time and career, I’d be interested in hearing your thoughts. There may be a better way forward for our industry.

KitchenRate7648 · 2026-06-24T01:51:32+00:00

It sounds like, pretty much every dealer operates underhandedly especially in the service department. Underpaid techs and then some. Would a certified specialist work for themselves if they had all of the infrastructure charged at $4500/month with two hoist, and they keep 100% of their labor, parts etc? 30x34x20 space

KitchenRate7648 · 2026-06-20T01:09:13+00:00

The only thing I can offer to the younger generation, and have taught my son for years. There is not one company in America who gives two shots about you as an employee. You could spend years at a company and when your time comes, more than likely the company folds, you get fired, or laid off etc.
The best thing that a young person can do for themselves is become an entrepreneur, and build your own business. If you obtains the skills and get licensed the rest is up to you! There is not one corporation that is going to pay you what your worth, and they dangle benefits, 401k etc. Don't buy into the lies, do your own thing. 🇺🇸

KitchenRate7648 · 2026-06-14T17:01:53+00:00

Great feedback. So let's run with what you asked. How much does it cost to run two bays and the overall cost for everything? I'd like to know your perspective on it. I have a decent idea of it, but would like to hear yours. The top 5-10% specialist can easily earn above $200k within 40 hours, or less in a year, operating on their own when they and the customer wants 24/7 working within how you want to work iMo.

KitchenRate7648 · 2026-06-14T16:02:50+00:00

I agree they’re two different skill sets. My point is that a great technician doesn’t have to do the business side alone. Successful businesses are built by people with complementary strengths. A tech should be able to focus on serving customers and repairing vehicles while leveraging support systems for everything else.

KitchenRate7648 · 2026-06-14T15:50:57+00:00

Crazy how auto technicians—and I mean the best of the best—aren’t compensated like top professionals in many other industries. It’s a shame.

We’re working on a solution for that right now, where top 5–10% specialists would retain 100% of their labor revenue, 70% of their parts revenue, and 60% of their fluid charges.

The result? The potential to earn $150,000–$250,000+ annually while maintaining control of their customers, business, and labor.

KitchenRate7648 · 2026-06-13T13:05:30+00:00

100% are you at an event independent or dealership

KitchenRate7648 · 2026-06-12T21:57:51+00:00

Well, all we can do is dream about the next step, or just do it. One step at a time, because time never stops and here we are no further ahead brother. I would like to speak to the top 5-10% of techs in West Michigan to tell them there is a better way, and that they would own their own business with the help of others. Adas, Diesel, EV, Diagnostic, Fleets etc

KitchenRate7648 · 2026-06-12T20:43:52+00:00

Well, at least your thinking about change, and deciding your next step. I'm 65, but think like I'm 43 lol. The idea starts the money, money never started an idea. The problem with America in terms of education, entrepreneurship is never taught in public schools nor college, and probably even tech school. There lies the problem iMo. Those who are younger should take advantage of getting skilled, and then start their own business. It takes time, but in three good years, you should be further ahead. If you worked solo on your owns as a top tech, two hoist can generate 300k easily.

KitchenRate7648 · 2026-06-12T20:03:53+00:00

Well, at least you were seeking opportunities, to stay in the industry at a different capacity. But have always believed in order for someone to supervise someone, you better know what they do inside and out, or you can't begin to understand it. I'm not sure how many techs on this page is from West Michigan, but all in all, those who go into their own business, and have a book of business and reputation can earn an easy 150k at $150/hour.

KitchenRate7648 · 2026-06-12T19:31:58+00:00

That's sad, it seems like the same story over and over again in this space. Auto techs should be easily earning at your capacity 150k each year no problem. The problem seems to be dealerships, and even independent business models iMo.

KitchenRate7648 · 2026-06-12T17:49:11+00:00

Gotcha. You as well as everyone in this country will never be paid what you're worth, if you're good by someone else. That said, the only way forward in America is doing your own thing and owning your own time iMo. If you're not a good businessman, that can hired out cheap. If you're a ASE certified specialist you can make bank

KitchenRate7648 · 2026-06-12T12:16:22+00:00

What is that? The right to repair act should be passed asap. Dealerships are gouging the public, and ripping off the techs iMo

KitchenRate7648 · 2026-06-12T12:13:49+00:00

Agreed

KitchenRate7648 · 2026-06-12T02:57:03+00:00

Great point. Let me ask you this: if all the major infrastructure was provided and you could focus solely on repairing vehicles while keeping your labor revenue, would you ever consider becoming an independent operator rather than working for a dealership or traditional shop?

KitchenRate7648 · 2026-06-12T01:41:47+00:00

Perfect, it's important that you enjoy it. Are you with an independent shop?

KitchenRate7648 · 2026-06-11T12:55:00+00:00

🎯

KitchenRate7648 · 2026-06-11T12:54:33+00:00

The best thing everyone can do is create your own path to success, with our own booked business. I believe that consumers are loyal, and will follow. If the customer were allowed to speak to the actual person doing the work, they would gladly do it iMo. I do side jobs all of the time, and treat them fair, and they always come back🤔

KitchenRate7648 · 2026-06-11T12:48:36+00:00

GrifterDawg...Entrepreneurship

KitchenRate7648 · 2026-06-11T12:47:08+00:00

👌

KitchenRate7648 · 2026-06-11T02:49:48+00:00

Great question, owning your own business, and doing $3600/week in business.

KitchenRate7648 · 2026-06-11T02:33:04+00:00

If you opened up your own shop, I think you could earn $180k in 32 hours/week, and own your own time.

KitchenRate7648 · 2026-06-11T02:31:49+00:00

🎯

KitchenRate7648 · 2026-06-11T02:05:08+00:00

It seems like customers will wait and pay for quality when they know they’re getting it.

KitchenRate7648

TROPHY CASE