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Best Software for Independent Auto Shops

Best auto repair shop software for independent shops with 1-3 bays

8 recommended solutions

Running an independent auto shop requires software that's powerful yet affordable, easy to learn, and doesn't require a large team to manage. These solutions are specifically designed for owner-operators and small independent shops.

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Our Top Pick

F

Fleetio

Fleet maintenance and management software

Fleetio helps fleet operators and shops manage vehicle maintenance, inspections, and work orders. Features fuel tracking, driver management, and comprehensive reporting.

Starting Price
$4/mo
Complexity
intermediate
Best For
Fleet operators and shops managing multiple vehicles

All Recommended Solutions

F

1. Fleetio

Fleet maintenance and management software

$4/mo

Fleetio helps fleet operators and shops manage vehicle maintenance, inspections, and work orders. Features fuel tracking, driver management, and comprehensive reporting.

Key Features:

  • Fleet maintenance tracking
  • Work order management
  • Inspection checklists
intermediateindependentsmall chain
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C

2. Clover for Auto Shops

Complete point-of-sale and payment processing system

$14.95/mo

Clover provides all-in-one point-of-sale hardware and payment processing for auto repair shops. Features touchscreen terminals, mobile payments, invoicing, and business management tools.

Key Features:

  • POS hardware and software
  • Credit card processing
  • Mobile payments
beginnerindependentsmall chain
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X

3. Xero

Cloud-based accounting software with powerful features

$15/mo

Xero is a cloud accounting platform offering real-time financial tracking, invoicing, and reporting. Easy integration with shop management systems, bank reconciliation, and multi-currency support.

Key Features:

  • Real-time financial tracking
  • Invoicing and quotes
  • Bank reconciliation
beginnerindependentsmall chain
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F

4. FreshBooks

Simple invoicing and accounting for service businesses

$19/mo

FreshBooks offers easy-to-use invoicing and accounting for service businesses. Features time tracking, expense management, and client portal for auto repair shops.

Key Features:

  • Professional invoicing
  • Expense tracking
  • Time tracking
beginnerindependent
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C

5. CARFAX for Shops

Vehicle history reports for auto repair shops

$25/mo

CARFAX provides vehicle history reports for auto repair shops to verify service records, accidents, and ownership history. Helps shops provide transparency to customers and make informed repair decisions.

Key Features:

  • Vehicle history reports
  • Accident history
  • Service records
beginnerindependentsmall chain
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A

6. Authorize.net

Reliable payment gateway for auto repair shops

$25/mo

Authorize.net is a trusted payment gateway that enables auto shops to accept credit cards online, in-store, and through invoices. Features fraud protection, recurring billing, and integration options.

Key Features:

  • Payment gateway
  • Credit card processing
  • E-check payments
intermediateindependentsmall chain
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S

7. Sage Business Cloud

Cloud accounting software for growing auto businesses

$25/mo

Sage Business Cloud offers comprehensive accounting features for auto repair shops including invoicing, expense tracking, cash flow management, and multi-currency support. Scalable solution for growing businesses.

Key Features:

  • Invoicing and quotes
  • Expense tracking
  • Cash flow management
intermediateindependentsmall chain
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B

8. BOSS Inspect

Digital vehicle inspection app by Shop Boss

$39/mo

BOSS Inspect is Shop Boss's standalone digital inspection app with photo/video capture, customizable templates, and customer communication. Can be used standalone or integrated with Shop Boss management system.

Key Features:

  • Mobile inspection app
  • Photo and video capture
  • Customizable inspection templates
beginnerindependent
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Buying Guide for Independent Auto Shops

What to Look For

  • Ease of Use: Choose software with an intuitive interface that won't require weeks of training
  • Pricing: Look for transparent, affordable pricing that fits your budget
  • Support: Ensure the vendor offers responsive customer support and training resources
  • Scalability: Pick a solution that can grow with your business
  • Integrations: Verify compatibility with your existing tools (accounting, parts suppliers, etc.)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Choosing based solely on price without considering ease of use and support
  • Picking enterprise-level software when you need something simpler
  • Not taking advantage of free trials before committing
  • Ignoring integration requirements with your existing systems

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