Although going electric presents challenges for auto repair garages, such as the absence of combustion engines and certain fluids, upskilling will enable garages and workers to transition smoothly by providing relevant training.
A shop that makes the switch to electric might find markets in battery diagnostics or charging infrastructure maintenance, even if those salients niche down.
EV-Specific Repairs
Because of this, only certain workshops will be able to carry out these repairs in relation to the development of electric vehicles (EVs) in the short term:
Problems with Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Systems: EVs might have problems with their HVAC systems such as a broken fan or sensor. Problem with EV’s Batteries and Other Electrical Issues: EVs have a variety of different electrical components that can get damaged in an accident, such as a battery pack, a regenerative braking system, and more.
These proprietary parts require a different skillset and technicians will have to be trained specifically to service them. Additionally, there will also need to be tools purchased and safety gear acquired to properly service an electric vehicle, such as high voltage gloves that protect against being electrocuted. With these added costs, training and education courses for staff will stand your shop in good stead with these new arrivals.
General Auto Repair
This will force garages to take it on board – EVs will help garages, too: they require fewer oil changes or spark plugs to be changed, for example. Also, many of these cars are fitted with telemetry systems that constantly monitor the performance and health of components. In many cases, a problem can often be identified before it becomes a serious one.
Technicians who understand the intricacy of certain EV components or subsystems will need more training or in some cases certification just to be considered for employment. Repair shops offering to stringently diagnose battery health or administer software updates could find a niche market.
For instance, if your shop currently focuses on repairing conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, having a display on your website about EV repair services may attract EV customers who might otherwise go to a competitor and gain first-mover advantage for your business. Further, displaying EV-friendly services on your website lets your customers know that your business is honest and responsible.
Muffler and Exhaust
EVs might not have spark plugs or timing belts, but these vehicles still require maintenance. For example, battery diagnosis and installation is needed to extend battery life; moreover, EVs’ electrical systems need to be checked regularly for small problems, so they can be repaired quickly before they develop into serious issues.
Besides, an EV’s thermal systems and software may be compromised and the vehicle will require recalls and repairs to keep them in working order. In addition, tires on an EV tend to wear faster than the tires on a conventional gasoline-fuelled vehicle, and require rotation and alignment on a frequent schedule to ensure optimum tire maintenance.
In short, EVs pose a challenge to the auto repair industry but also an opportunity for those businesses that can survive and even thrive with the transitions that are beginning to emerge. First, after expanding into servicing newer-technology systems, those shops that are nimble or innovative will position themselves to benefit from this transition by offering services only for their specific systems – after all, shops that do not perform these services at all will suffer as customers start moving towards EVs. Second, those shops that adapt their expertise can also position themselves to compete effectively against the dealerships and independents that offer EV services (as dealers have in the past represented a constant threat to aftermarket shops), and also to compete against incumbent independents by using entrepreneurialism to the fullest and to take advantage of EV’s exponential ‘hockey stick’ growth.
Other Repair Shops
Electric vehicles (EVs) have electric motors that transform grid electrical energy to driving force, emitting no tailpipe emissions, a major benefit of this type of technology.
But their explosive growth isn’t entirely good news: it can create problems for other electric vehicle ecosystems, such as repair shops and charging infrastructure vendors.
Auto repair shops are also quickly taking steps to fill the need of these new EVs by investing in new training and equipment. Auto shops that are pioneers, especially when it comes to repair and maintenance of these vehicles, will gain a new market to fill as these new EVs become more commonplace, but they will also gain customers from people who just don’t want their EVs sitting for days at a time.
Some car-repair shops will surely suffer as drivers have fewer accidents, but the EV market offers some redemption: simpler cars might require less regular maintenance, and the regenerative braking associated with EVs will offer a shop like Mr Cervino’s a boon as it extends the life of brake pads.
EVs are here to stay, and your shop can be a part of this changing industry by sending a message about your community. Own an EV? Get a Repair Estimate! To make EVs work for you, educate your techs, supply specialty services, and get to know the manufacturers so you benefit from the new technology.
