Ratchet+Wrench

06/24/2026

Twenty years ago, a good independent shop owner with a pleasant demeanor could build a healthy business with strong mechanical skills, a decent location, and a loyal customer base. Today, that same owner needs training in subjects that weren’t previously in his vocabulary.

Modern auto shop success depends on owners evolving from skilled technicians to strategic leaders.

06/24/2026

Paar, Melis & Associates has released its 2026 PMA Benchmark Report.

The comprehensive report explores how top-performing auto repair shops leverage technology, leadership strategies, and innovative business practices.

06/23/2026

Most shops can identify areas where they can improve, even if it's just a couple of percentage points.

However, "just a couple of percentage points" could be the difference between your shop surviving and thriving.

How shops can interpret industry data, identify areas for improvement, and adapt to market changes.

06/22/2026

Is your shop prepared for the technology shift reshaping automotive repair? In this State of the Market Report, the data shows a clear divide between shops adopting modern tools and those lagging behind in emerging services like EV and ADAS support.

Early adopters are positioning themselves to capture new revenue streams and build stronger customer trust. Those who invest today will define tomorrow’s industry.

New data reveals how automotive repair technology adoption, from AI to ADAS and EV services, is reshaping independent shops.

06/18/2026

In this special three-part Ratchet+Wrench Radio series, CPA Nick Papakyrikos breaks down the financial realities independent shop owners face every day—and the systems that can change everything.

CPA Nick Papakyrikos joins Ratchet+Wrench Radio host Christine Schaffran for a three-part series on why busy shops still struggle financially, what private equity sees in the ...

06/18/2026

"A coworker of mine used to say, 'information fixes cars.' That applies to EVs, too.

Don’t let the badge scare you away from a massive learning opportunity or a big-ticket repair. The future of the industry isn’t coming—it has been parked in your bay since 8:30 this morning."

Separating hype from hard facts: Why your shop should embrace electric vehicles

06/17/2026

"Our industry continues to provide incredible opportunities for growth, and there is no shortage of knowledge available to support that growth. The advantage comes from applying that knowledge with clarity, consistency, and intention, so that the effort you are investing translates into results you can see and feel in your business."

Why activity is replacing advancement in our industry.

06/17/2026

Unlike many industries, automotive repair is directly tied to customer safety. A mistake—small as it may be—can put customers’ lives at risk. That heightened responsibility, combined with long hours and people management, creates a perfect storm for burnout.

Fortunately, burnout is beatable. Margaret Light, a licensed therapist with Equilibrium Therapy Service in Minneapolis, shares a few changes in your day-to-day life that can make all the difference.

While rewarding, leadership can be taxing. Learn from a mental health expert the strategies you need to prevent burnout.

06/16/2026

Our industry can only thrive with support from companies like Net Driven. A huge shoutout to the company for sponsoring Ratchet+Wrench Radio, and helping us in our mission of empowering and educating the auto repair industry.

06/12/2026

As leaders, it’s sometimes difficult to hand off tasks and responsibilities for fear that they might not get done the way you would do them. Matt Sauer, manager of Casey’s Automotive in Chantilly, Virginia, has some advice for those who resist delegating work.

Eric Sauer, manager of Casey's Automotive, shares advice on building trust, creating processes, and letting go to grow your team.