Americans are busy people. Sometimes we barely have time to get a decent lunch, let alone drive to a mechanic, wait for work to get done and deal with payment, all while trying not to anger our boss, girlfriend or children. Enter the mobile mechanic.
Mobile mechanics have grown in popularity over the last 6 years, especially since the financial crisis caused millions of people to look for affordable alternatives. Mechanics passionate about automotive repair without the means or the desire to open their own physical locations have joined the field hoping to make a living. Even start-ups funded by venture capitalists have jumped into the fray, attempting to capitalize on the burgeoning mobile mechanic field. So what is a mobile mechanic and what makes them different from your local neighborhood shop?
What is a mobile mechanic?
A mobile mechanic is typically one mechanic working independently that comes to your location to work on your car. Sometimes, a mobile mechanic business will consists of a team of employees, but this is isn't as common as a single mechanic working alone. There are even mobile mechanics that will perform work on your boat or RV.
How is a mobile mechanic different from a regular repair shop mechanic?
A mobile mechanic is not in any way different from a mechanic at a shop. Both are usually trained professionals with the appropriate certifications, knowledge and experience to work on your car. Both are in the same business and both are human beings. The only difference is the method by which they conduct business. While a regular mechanic will work on your vehicle inside a garage, where you have to go to them, a mobile mechanic will come to you to perform the work.
Can a mobile mechanic perform the same work as a regular shop?
A mobile mechanic can typically perform the same work as any mechanic at a shop. Mobile mechanics can perform oil changes, replace brakes, and even work on complex issues such as engine and transmission repair. Again, as long as they're trained and certified by ASE or similar organizations, your car will be in good hands.
What are the benefits of using a mobile mechanic?
The biggest and most obvious benefit is convenience. Instead of driving your car to a shop, a mobile mechanic can come to your home, work or school and perform the necessary work while you go about your day, instead of sitting in a crowded waiting room reading outdated magazines about celebrity gossip.
The other major benefit is price. Since a mobile mechanic doesn't have the large overhead of a shop or employees, prices can be as much as 40% cheaper than at a standard independent repair facility. Making payment shouldn't be difficult either, as mobile payment systems will allow most mechanics to take a credit card right from their phone.
What to look for when choosing a mobile mechanic.
There are certain things that you'll want to look for when searching for a mobile mechanic. Here are the most important:
- Is the mobile mechanic certified by ASE or similar organizations?
- Can you find reviews online (Angie's List, Yelp, Mechanic Advisor)?
- Does the mobile mechanic have customer referrals?
- Does the mechanic offer a warranty on parts and work performed?
- Will the mechanic provide an itemized receipt?
Mobile Mechanics fall under the following categories:
- Mobile Auto Repair
- Mobile Motorcycle Repair
- Mobile RV Repair
- Mobile Truck Repair
- Mobile Tire Repair
- Mobile Brake Repair
- Mobile Boat Repair
- Mobile Detailing
How to find a mobile mechanic in your area.
Use our search feature above to look up mobile mechanics that are local in your area. Plug in "Mobile" next to Find: and enter your location and click search (magnifying glass). You'll find local mobile mechanics, reviews, services offered, and the appropriate contact information. Sometimes even coupons for extra savings. If you're pressed for time or looking to save some money on auto repair, a mobile mechanic is a great option.
