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Best Software for Small Auto Shop Chains

Best software for small auto repair chains with 2-5 locations

8 recommended solutions

Small chains need software that can handle multi-location management, centralized reporting, and consistent workflows across locations while remaining cost-effective and easy to scale.

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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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C

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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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I

7. Inspect by Shop-Ware

Mobile digital vehicle inspection app

$49/mo

Inspect is a mobile-first digital vehicle inspection tool that integrates seamlessly with Shop-Ware. Features easy photo/video capture, canned jobs, and real-time customer communication for efficient inspections.

Key Features:

  • Mobile-first inspection app
  • Photo and video documentation
  • Pre-built inspection templates
beginnerindependentsmall chain
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H

8. Haynes Pro

Professional workshop data and repair information

$89/mo

Haynes Pro delivers comprehensive repair and maintenance information for professional workshops. Known for detailed procedures, technical data, and extensive vehicle coverage with user-friendly interface.

Key Features:

  • Step-by-step repair procedures
  • Wiring diagrams
  • Technical specifications
beginnerindependentsmall chain
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Buying Guide for Small Auto Shop Chains

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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