Putting You on the Road to Reliability

Auto Repair & tuning Company

Performance without Compromisee

 

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We’re a company of 
talented engineers & mechanics

We are one of the leading auto repair companies.

Horse Power

Suspension

Engine

Drive

We practice

innovative methods of

car repair and tuning

 

We Provide Professional Service

 

How to Become a Self-Employed Car Mechanic

If you are already employed as a mechanic and have been considering working for yourself, you need to think about a number of things before making the leap. If you’re passionate about car engines and want to know how to start your own mechanic business, we hope to provide guidance.

Ensure you have suitable motor trade insurance

Before getting started, anyone who is working with cars, regardless of on a part-time or full-time basis, will need a suitable traders policy. This provides cover when a customer’s vehicle is in your care. To find the best deals, use an online comparison site such as Utility Saving Expert. You’ll be able to compare motor trade insurance from a number of industry leading providers, helping you save both time and money. Let’s get back to fixing vehicles, shall we?

Why should I become a self-employed car mechanic?

There are a number of advantages to becoming a self-employed car mechanic. Firstly, you’ll be able to work on a whole range of vehicles, helping take care of all the basic maintenance that most customers won’t be able to do themselves. You’ll undertake a number of tasks such as fixing electrical faults, conducting MOTs, replacing tyres, changing brake pads and even carrying out a full car service. The everyday person will not have the knowledge and skills to do this themselves, or if they do, many won’t want to spend the time to do it. If you’re passionate about cars, vans, trucks or motorbikes, you’ll be getting paid for something you love to do.

Another major benefit of being a self-employed vehicle mechanic is that you’ll be your own boss, allowing you to choose your own schedule including the days and hours you work. You will have the flexibility to decide how much work you want to take on at any given moment. Furthermore, many people who work for themselves will have an opportunity to make more money than a typical employee who’s on an hourly wage or salary. In addition to this, you will also be able to claim back tax on the tools and clothing you need for the job. You can set your own rates, and through efficient tax planning, you will earn more than you would if someone hired you as an employee.

How do I become a self-employed vehicle mechanic?

First and foremost, you will need extensive knowledge and the right skills for a whole range of vehicles. Mechanics also need their own clothing and tools to get the job done. A dedicated garage space and a large vehicle of your own to transport your tools to another location to carry out work will also be helpful.

In addition to this, you will likely also need a number of other basics that many small businesses require. For example, a computer, mobile phone and a way to organise your paperwork and manage your accounts.

Business structure is another aspect you’ll need to think about. For example, do you want to set up your own limited company and be the director, or would you prefer to carry out contract work for others. Both options have their own benefits and drawbacks. If you decide to set up your own limited company, you will likely have to do some additional paperwork but it may offer you much greater rewards.

What qualifications do I need?

When working as a self-employed mechanic, there are a few qualifications that you will require. A number of colleges offer courses to give prospective mechanics the fundamental knowledge they need to legally trade within the industry. If you don’t have the time to commit to a full-time course, a number of flexible part-time courses are also available, but these will take longer to complete. A great beginning point would be a course that takes you from a basic interest and understanding of engines to a Level 1 Certificate/Diploma in Vehicle Maintenance.

An apprenticeship is also a really practical way to get the necessary skills and experience you need. You will have the opportunity to learn and work at the same time, and even receive some payment. Many apprenticeships will also require some basic GCSEs – normally English and Maths.

Where will I be working?

Most self-employed mechanics won’t always work from a garage and will often start as a mobile business as funds may be limited. If you’re meeting your clients at their location, you’re providing further convenience that other mechanics may not be able to. Although your fuel costs may be slightly higher, you’ll save money on not having to cover the costs of a business premises.

Note, if you are operating as a mobile mechanic, you’ll be on the road a lot more and will be required to transport all of your tools. Garages do offer prospective customers a level of reassurance. There isn’t a right answer, and you can always transition to a garage as your business grows.

In summary, being a self-employed vehicle mechanic offers a lot of opportunity for those that have the right knowledge and experience. As with any business, you’ll have to work hard to become successful.

From 2021 Forward: Top 5 Trucks of the Future

Trucks are on the rise, outselling cars for the first time ever this April. There are so many styles of trucks, for all kinds of uses. From off-road pick-up trucks to family sized trucks for a great day out, there are trucks to suit every need. These awesome new trucks in the works will excite and entertain even the toughest critics. Check out our top 5 trucks of the future. If you are in the market for a new truck or prefer to hire visit TR Group.

The order of these trucks is random, each has it’s own benefits and innovative new features.

Ford F-150

Release Date: Late 2020

 Predicted Price Range: $30,000 – $70,000

The Ford F-150 is not a completely new type, but the 2020 model has a lot to look forward to. The dashboard has been upgraded in higher trims to include a huge touch screen for information and entertainment, and fully digital instrument panel with digital speedometer. It is available in V8 gas, V6 diesel or as of this year hybrid 3.5L gas (V6) and electric engine.

The 2020 F-150 also comes in a range of 14 colour options. Featuring great names like Abyss Gray, Star White, Magma Red and Lead Foot (which is a dark green colour).

The 2020 version of this truck features a hybrid powertrain. Ford is rolling out fully electric trucks though, and the 2022 version of the F-150 is expected to be fully electric. So, if you’re holding out for the electric version it’s not too far away either.

Ram Dakota

Release Date: Early 2021

Predicted Price Range: $21,000 – $45,000

The Ram Dakota was last produced in 2011 and has not been renewed since, until now. The renewal is sparked by the recent popularity of the similar Chevrolet Colorado pick up. This is the first mid-sized truck for Ram. They set their sights on entering the very competitive mid-sized pick up market, with all other US manufacturers already producing mid-sized trucks.

Features as rumored to include a decent sized tablet style infotainment screen, similar interior design as the Ram 1500 and lots of size options available. Ram is said to be planning both single and quad cab options for this truck, and short and long pick up beds. There will also be three fuel options, diesel, gas and a hybrid powertrain option available.

GMT Hummer (SUV and SUT versions)

Release Date: Autumn 2021

Predicted Price Range: Approx. $70,000

The Hummer has always been a well  known and popular truck. The 2021 model is full sized, fully electric (BEV3) and packs a powerful punch with up to 1000 horse power. Not only will this be available in standard SUV but also a new SUT (Sport Utility Truck) version.

The 2021 Hummer will feature the expected Hummer Braun with boxed squared off edges and an upright windscreen, and man sized steering wheel and gears. You will be able to choose from long or short wheel base options, it’ll have independent adjustable suspension, and huge tires perfect for off-roading. The truck also boasts a front trunk big enough to store the removable targa top. With the new fully electric model you’ll be able to enjoy a powerful drive, impress your friends, and not spend too much on fuel, no compromises.

Chevrolet Silverado EV

Release Date: 2025

Predicted Price Range: Around $60,000

The Silverado is easily one of the most popular, highly talked about trucks currently in the market. There is not much known about the newest 2025 version yet but we expect great things. A name has not yet been confirmed, and they may opt for a different model type altogether other than the Silverado, but it should be similar to the very popular truck.

What is known though, is that there will be a full sized, fully electric pick up truck using the current BEV3 engine and Ultium rapid charge batteries. There is talk of it featuring a large 18-inch screen at the front and dark leather trims available at higher levels.

Similar to the new Hummer it is likely to offer a variety of choices of battery packs and motors, which could increase or decrease the price and power. We can’t wait to hear more information later this year about this exciting new truck from Chevrolet.

Tesla Cybertruck

Release Date: Early 2022

Set Prices: Single Motor ($39,900), Double ($49,900) or Triple Motor ($69,900)

We have saved the most futuristic for last. This truck hardly looks real, but it is. It looks more compact than other trucks but you’d be pleasantly surprised what fits inside. What’s different about this truck aside from the visual style, is that unlike other trucks with sheet metal stamped to the right shape and size, the Cybertruck has 3mm thick stainless steel which is bent into shape around the truck. This has been called the Hummer for Millennials.

The truck has a 6.5 foot bed, front and back trunk for storage and extra storage areas fitted into it’s bed buttresses. Tesla states that it can travel 800kms on a single charge, perfect for road trips, and boasting an awesome 6 seats inside, plenty of room for everyone.

 

 

Are online auto sales the way forward for car yards?

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced businesses to rethink how they operate. Pivoting their operations, whether it’s a whole new product or service, or how they deliver their existing one, may ensure survival of the most adaptive business.

There’s nothing quite like a day of tyre kickers coming through a car yard. A Saturday where every man and his dog has decided they’re buying a new car, and meandering through the lot, opening every car door and fiddling with the volume button on the car radio. But the pandemic changed that.

Lockdown means no pleasant meandering, no possible sources of infection, and no sales. While some lockdowns allow a customer to look, the dealer isn’t open, and they can only peer in the windows- not conducive to convincing you to buy. Worldwide, Toyota has warned of a potential 80% collapse of its operational profits in the next 12 months. Some car sales companies simply cannot afford to put their business on ice for a year.

So, some dealers have taken their sales online.

Virtual sales help car dealers

COVID-19 has resulted in a range of scenarios. Some people have put their new car dreams on hold, while finances are uncertain. Some people are waiting until life resumes normal again before they buy. Others have downsized, wanting a smaller car or a lesser brand. And some people still want their new car, regardless of the virus.

While it’s never as good as actually seeing the car and taking it for a spin, virtual sales yards are getting eyes on the vehicles, without customers leaving the comfort of their home. Until the showroom can open, this is ensuring there’s interest and potential sales lined up. Some people are buying their new cars without even taking a test drive, and getting the car dropped off, completely non-contact.

How to set up a virtual showroom

While there are online auction sites, these take a cut of the price, making it less financially viable. However, it’s simple to set up your own website. Think about the following things:

Sales categories: How will you list cars? By brand, model, size or purpose? While some people know exactly that they want a Jeep, some people go shopping looking for a people mover, or a van. Having cross-categories, so people can search a variety of ways, is the best.

Photography: You need good quality images of the car from all angles, inside and out. Think about what people are most interested in when they buy a car- the dashboard, or the engine. It’s better to have too many photos than not enough. Make sure the photos are clean, crisp, and the colours are correct.

Description: The details of the car should be clearly listed. Make, model, features, engine size, any extras it comes with, and any other information people require. Writing a brief description about the car, how it handles, the way it looks and the general wear and tear is important too. Once again, more information is good, people can just discount what they don’t need.

Video: A video walkthrough of the car can provide loads of information you may not get from the photos or description. A salesman can also give a patter about the car at the same time, ending with ‘click on the buy now button to buy, or give us a call to find out more’.

Next steps: If you want people to be able to buy online, you’ll need extra functionality. Paperwork including finance must be able to be completed securely online. How will you arrange delivery? What about car insurance?

Advertising: How do you get the word out that you’re selling online? While online auction sites will eat in your profits, at least people know they are there, and no advertisement is required. For a dealer setting up an online store, you’ll need a plan for marketing. Whether it’s investing in SEO, Facebook ads, radio or TV ads, make sure you’re targeting where your potential market are.

This could be a new sales funnel

Even if you’re not making the entire transaction digital- after all, some people want their test drive—this is a great way to get people on the lot. Not only is it increasing your digital presence and bringing more customers to your website, but it’s bringing people onto the lot and already doing most the work for you.

By the time someone has seen the car online, checked out the specs, the video and read the sales information, most of the work has already been done. They’ve gone away, compared to other cars, and already decided this car is worth checking out in person. They are no longer tyre kickers; they are educated and motivated buyers. So when you can open your yard fully, there’s already plenty of people, waiting to buy.

Setting up a website can be a considerable time and money investment, but it might mean you survive the pandemic a bit better than your competitors.

 

 

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