A WhoCanFixMyCar survey carried out in the UK has found that the majority of garages have either increased or are planning to increase their prices due to inflationary pressures. 

57% of workshops said prices would have to rise to maintain profitability in the face of a cost-of-living crisis and the rising price of parts. A further 25% of survey respondents said they are considering a price increase but have not made a final decision. 

An increase in the cost of repairing and maintaining a car will come as bad news to hard pressed motorists, but in the present circumstances garages are being left with no alternative. 

Al Preston, founder of WhoCanFixMyCar, commented, “Naturally, older vehicles tend to need more repairs, so with prices set to rise over the coming months, drivers should consider booking their cars in for essential work sooner rather than later, as they could find themselves paying considerably more if they wait.”

Irish garages are now finding themselves in a similar situation. Price increases are never welcomed by drivers, but trying to absorb cost rises in a garage business already squeezed on margin can create pressures which can even cause a business to fail. 

What is clear is that garages need to get a very firm handle on all operating costs and be charging a labour rate that allows for a respectable profit margin. Too many garages are currently relying on parts mark-ups to keep their head above water and with component prices on the increase this is not a sustainable strategy.