If there’s one thing Americans love, it’s their cars. And where there’s a love ingrained in each of us, there is a thriving industry to support our every need. Yes, we’re talking about the automotive repair industry and the fast rate at which it’s growing! So how many auto repair shops are in the U.S.? We decided to bring you the answer straight from the industry!
Let’s explore the current standing of the auto repair industry in the U.S. and where it’s headed.Â
The significance of the U.S. auto repair industry
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The U.S. economy benefits from the vehicle repair sector’s creation of jobs and stimulation of consumer spending. There’s a strong need for repair and maintenance services in the United States, where there’s over 280 million registered vehicles.Â
One can say that the love affair between American citizens and their cars is incomparable. And auto repair shops are crucial for maintaining the durability and dependability of their vehicles. These businesses also help ensure that they meet safety requirements and environmental rules.Â
In this article, we will discuss how many auto repair shops and mechanics are in the United States. Let’s dive in!
1. Constant dependence on transportation
Most people in the United States commute by car, making it a nation built on wheels. As a result, a well-functioning auto repair industry is essential to a high-functioning society. From routine maintenance to complex repairs, your auto repair shop helps ensure that vehicles are reliable and safe for daily use.
2. Key economic impact
The U.S. economy depends on the auto repair industry because it creates many job opportunities and contributes to economic growth. Specifically, it provides employment opportunities for trained technicians, mechanics, service advisers, and administrative employees.
The industry employed about 664,070 automobile service technicians and mechanics as of May 2020, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labour Statistics. These experts offer their knowledge in maintenance, diagnosis, and repair to guarantee customer satisfaction.
Beyond direct employment, the auto repair industry also stimulates the economy. Auto repair shops rely on a network of suppliers, parts manufacturers, tool producers, and various support services. This interconnected ecosystem creates a ripple effect, generating employment opportunities and income streams throughout the industry.
3. Maintenance and repair needs
Maintenance is essential for vehicles to remain safe and last a long time. Routine services like oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and engine diagnostics are all important functions of auto repair shops.Â
Drivers can reduce their risk of mechanical failures and prevent potential breakdowns by following the maintenance schedules advised by the manufacturer. Accidents brought on by defective parts are less likely to occur in maintained cars since they are less prone to face unexpected failures.
Additionally, well-maintained cars typically have better fuel economy, which lessens their environmental effect and saves consumers money at the pump.Â
4. Vehicle longevity and resale value
Your auto repair shop plays an important role in extending a vehicle’s lifespan. Shops contribute to the assurance that vehicles remain roadworthy for extended periods by addressing wear and tear, carrying out repairs, and promptly resolving issues.Â
Not to mention that appropriately fixed vehicles have higher resale value! When owners decide to sell or trade in their vehicles, the condition and service history impact the sale price. The better their choice of auto repair shops and mechanics are, the better their vehicle’s value.Â
5. Consumer convenience and peace of mind
Auto repair shops offer unmatched accommodation and peace of mind to vehicle owners. Customers can rely on the expertise of trained mechanics and technicians under one roof rather than searching for many different specialists for various repairs. For customers, this convenience is the most important factor.
Number of auto repair businesses in the U.S.
There were over 239,100 vehicle repair and maintenance facilities in the U.S. during the fourth quarter of 2021, according to Statista. That signaled a 2% increase from the previous year. Almost 17,700 new businesses were added to the automotive repair industry between the fourth quarter of 2010 and 2021.Â
The majority of vehicles in use in the United States have increased, and according to the most recent statistics, the average age of cars on American roads is getting older every year. This can mean only one thing, your auto repair business and its team of mechanics should ready yourselves for more work coming your way!
What does the future hold for the auto repair industry?
Outlook and trends
The future of the auto repair industry faces a new evolution. Advancements in vehicle technology, such as autonomous and connected cars, will require your shop to adapt and learn new skills. The transition to electric vehicles will also require specialized training and equipment to address those unique repair needs.
Rapid digitization has revolutionized the auto repair industry in terms of both vehicle technology and repair methods. Modern vehicles feature sophisticated onboard computers, advanced sensors, and complex electronic systems. As such, technicians will have to continue stepping up their game with modern training and equipment to diagnose and repair increasingly complex vehicles.Â
Growth drivers for the auto repair industry
So what are the factors related to the growth of auto repair shops in the U.S.? Here are four main aspects that come to mind:
- Increased demand for pre-owned cars
- Increased automotive sales
- Increased vehicle age (leading to regular maintenance)
- Increased use of passenger cars
And the best part, even as we move into the future of electric vehicles, the auto repair industry is still managing to stay relevant!
So where does the auto repair industry in the U.S. stand at the moment? Let’s discuss this.
Where do we stand?
If the data we have reviewed so far has taught us anything, the auto repair industry is booming in the U.S. In 2019 in the U.S. alone, auto repair generated upwards of $75 billion in revenue. That number is expected to rise significantly by 2028.
Market segments and their expected impact
When it comes to the market segments and their estimated outputs, we can categorize them into three segments:
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Closing thoughts
The auto repair industry is thriving in the United States! With the increased need for personal and business vehicles, their upkeep and maintenance, your shop can continue to increase its market share. Overall, it’s a great time to grow your auto repair business!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
As of 2023, there are approximately 600,406 mechanics employed in the auto repair industry, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics.Â
The North American automotive sector is projected to achieve a market size of $78.4 billion by 2022, according to Allied Market Research. IBIS, a reputable source in the industry, also provides data indicating that approximately 15 million new vehicles were added to U.S. roads during 2021.
