Ever wonder what that charge for labor or service is paying for? Here are 3 reasons auto service professionals deserve every penny.
1. Mechanics Do Hard Work
While checking under the hood and unscrewing a few receptacle caps may not seem like difficult manual labor, a lot of what auto service professionals do requires some muscle. From wrenching on rusty bolts to lifting tires into place, these guys are not lying down on the job.
In some circumstances, auto pros can spend hours trying to remove old parts before they're able to replace them with new ones. Think about the last time you crawled under your vehicle. It's a bit more complicated than unscrewing the gas cap.
Not only do auto professionals do a lot of physically demanding manual labor, but they also need to maintain a detailed knowledge base of a wide range of vehicles. The longer they have been working in the auto industry the more they've seen and they are using that experience to approach every vehicle that comes into the shop.
2. Mechanics Sometimes Dangerous Work
Many vehicle owners don't realize how dangerous auto repairs can be. From hazardous chemicals to complicated electrical systems, working as an auto professional has plenty to be cautious about. Auto mechanics can be injured by exposure to chemicals (such as gasoline, auto fluids, and battery acid), electrical shock, explosive airbags, and welding hazards just to name a few. In addition, they are often working in extreme temperatures, tight spaces, and in awkward positions to reach different parts of your vehicle.
Part of the cost of labor often goes toward workers' compensation, liability and medical insurance, and personal protective equipment to help manage these risks. In addition, the tools and equipment a repair shop uses must be kept in safe working order at all times.
3. Mechanics Do more Than Just Auto Work
Like any other business, part of the labor cost at an auto repair shop goes toward administrative and office expenses. Service professionals rely on information databases paid by subscription to give them the most recent parts, systems, and recall information. Other databases will keep track of customer information including vehicle history. In addition to performing repairs, auto professionals must also answer phones, book appointments, handle estimates and receipts, and spend a lot of time interfacing with customers about their vehicles.
Finally, there are business expenses such as bookkeeping, advertising, and property upkeep. A small portion of the labor or service charge from each repair will go to supporting these business costs.
If you have concerns about your car, contact local automotive repair services.
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