Pricing Strategies
There are three main pricing approaches for mobile mechanics. Most successful operators use a hybrid model.
Hourly Rate
Charge a fixed hourly labor rate (typically $80-$150/hr for mobile) plus parts. Simple to explain, but can penalize you for being fast and efficient.
Flat Rate (Per Service)
Charge a fixed price per job (e.g., oil change = $89, brake pads = $250). Rewards efficiency and is easier for customers to understand. Requires knowing your average time per service.
Hybrid (Recommended)
Use flat rates for common, predictable services (oil changes, brakes, batteries) and hourly rates for diagnostics and unpredictable work. This is what most successful mobile mechanics do.
Key principle: Your mobile rate should be higher than shop rates. You're providing the convenience of coming to the customer. A 20-40% premium over local shop rates is standard and expected.
Common Service Rates (National Averages)
| Service | Shop Rate | Mobile Rate | Your Parts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oil Change (Conventional) | $35-$55 | $65-$95 | $15-$25 |
| Oil Change (Synthetic) | $65-$95 | $95-$135 | $30-$50 |
| Brake Pads (per axle) | $150-$250 | $200-$350 | $40-$80 |
| Brake Pads + Rotors | $300-$450 | $400-$600 | $100-$200 |
| Battery Replacement | $150-$250 | $175-$300 | $80-$180 |
| Starter Replacement | $350-$550 | $400-$650 | $100-$250 |
| Alternator Replacement | $400-$600 | $450-$700 | $150-$300 |
| Diagnostic (per hour) | $80-$120 | $100-$150 | — |
| A/C Recharge | $150-$250 | $175-$300 | $30-$60 |
| Spark Plugs (4-cyl) | $150-$250 | $200-$350 | $20-$60 |
*Rates vary significantly by market. Urban/suburban areas typically command higher rates.
Calculating Your Costs
Before setting prices, understand your actual costs. Here's a simple framework:
Monthly Overhead Calculator
| Expense | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Van payment / depreciation | $400-$800 |
| Insurance (all types) | $200-$450 |
| Fuel | $300-$600 |
| Phone / internet | $100-$150 |
| Software (CRM, invoicing) | $0-$50 * |
| Tool replacement / upkeep | $100-$300 |
| Marketing | $100-$300 |
| Total Monthly Overhead | $1,200-$2,650 |
* Mechanics Alliance Pro includes Trackara Pro, saving $50/month on software.
If your monthly overhead is $2,000 and you work 20 days/month with 3 jobs/day, that's 60 jobs. Your overhead per job is ~$33. Add your desired hourly wage, parts markup, and convenience premium to set your final price.
When and How to Raise Prices
- Annually, at minimum. Costs go up every year. Your prices should too. 5-10% annual increases are standard.
- When you're fully booked. If you're turning away work, your prices are too low. Raise them until demand matches your capacity.
- When you add value. New certifications, better equipment, or expanded services justify price increases.
- Give notice. Tell existing customers about price changes 30 days in advance. New customers get the new price immediately.