Auto repair shop management software runs your daily workflow—appointments, estimates, repair orders, parts and labor matrices, technician time, digital vehicle inspections (DVI), approvals, invoicing, payments, and reporting—with integrations for accounting and parts data. Shops adopt it to cut admin time, raise approval rates, and get bay/tech utilization in real time.
- Must-haves: Estimate/RO builder, DVI with photo/video approvals, parts pricing, technician clocking, payments, and reports.
- Nice-to-haves: VIN decode, text messaging/CRM, QuickBooks/Xero sync, multi-location reporting, OEM/aftermarket catalog links.
Running a modern shop means juggling repair orders, parts, tech hours, invoices, DVIs, and customer updates—often across multiple screens and teams. The right auto repair management software turns that chaos into a clean, trackable workflow that boosts ARO, technician utilization, and customer trust. This guide explains what to look for, how the leading tools compare, and why many shops are choosing Garage360—built by the TechRoute66 team with a diagnostics-first mindset.
TL;DR: If you want fast setup, dealer-level workflows, integrated parts, and crystal-clear invoicing—try Garage360.
What is auto repair management software?
Auto repair (shop) management software is an all-in-one system that centralizes estimating, RO creation, DVIs, scheduling, parts sourcing, payments, inventory, and reporting—so owners can see the whole shop at a glance and make decisions fast. In short: fewer mistakes, faster approvals, higher throughput, and happier customers.
Core features checklist (use this to evaluate any tool)
- Repair Orders (ROs) & Estimates: Create, approve, convert, and track in minutes.
- Digital Vehicle Inspections (DVIs): Photos/video notes increase transparency and approvals.
- Scheduling & Capacity: Balance bays and tech hours with drag-and-drop simplicity.
- Parts & Inventory: Vendor integrations, stock levels, cost/markup rules, cores management.
- Integrated Payments & Accounting: Take card-on-file, sync with accounting (e.g., QBO).
- Customer Comms: Text/email reminders, approvals, and review automations.
- Reporting: Profitability, technician efficiency, ARO, CSI, and more.
Why many shops switch software in 2025
- Paper/Spreadsheet sprawl → no audit trail, lost margin
- Unclear parts margin → leakage at scale
- Low DVI adoption → low trust, low approvals
- Scheduling chaos → idle bays or oversold tech hours
- Weak reporting → blind spots in profit per job/tech
- Integration gaps → double-entry between POS, inventory, and accounting
If any of that sounds familiar, it’s time to evaluate your stack.
Choosing Guide: 7 Questions Before You Buy
- Single site or multi-location today and in 18 months?
- Required accounting integration (QuickBooks or Xero)?
- Do you need DVI with photo/video approvals sent by SMS?
- How will techs clock time—shop tablets, their phones, or PCs?
- Must-have parts catalogs and pricing matrices?
- Any fleet or tire workflows to support?
- Data export/ownership and migration plan?
Garage360: a diagnostics-first approach to shop management
Garage360 is built by TechRoute66, a team that lives and breathes OEM-level tools and workshop operations. The result is a platform designed around real dealer-grade workflows—from RO to DVI to invoice—with clean UX, fast onboarding, and fewer clicks per task.
Highlights:
- Lightning-fast RO to invoice with canned jobs, labor matrices, and line-item control
- Technician-friendly DVIs that customers love (photos/video + one-tap approvals)
- Parts & inventory that just work—with clear cost, markup, and purchase flow
- Accounting-ready exports & payment links to reduce reconciliation time
- Multi-location ready with role-based access and usage-based visibility
- Remote setup by pros (TechRoute66 engineers) for day-one productivity
👉 See it in action: Book a Garage360 demo
The Winners (Deep Dives): Garage360 vs Tekmetric, AutoLeap, Shopmonkey
Garage360.io — Best Overall
Why we picked it
Garage360.io strikes the best balance of speed, clarity, and coverage across the day-to-day workflow. Advisors can move from estimate → DVI → approval → invoice → payment with minimal clicks, while owners get the right level of visibility without wrestling a BI tool. It’s a clean, modern cloud app that keeps training time low and approvals high.
Standout highlights
- Fast RO builder: Clear line items, canned jobs, and parts/labor matrices help advisors quote accurately in seconds.
- DVI that converts: Photo/video inspections drop straight into the estimate with SMS approvals and a simple customer view.
- Technician time & bay utilization: Clock-on/clock-off and basic efficiency views help you spot bottlenecks during the day.
- Built-in payments & messaging: Take payment links or card-present (where supported) and keep all customer texts in the RO thread.
- Integrations that matter: Accounting (e.g., QuickBooks/Xero), VIN/vehicle data, common parts sources, and basic reporting dashboards. (Confirm exact integrations and regions with the vendor.)
Where it wins
- Speed to value: New advisors can quote, share DVI, and get approvals with almost no hand-holding.
- Consistency: Simple price matrices and canned jobs protect parts/labor margin across different advisors and shifts.
- Customer experience: Clean approval screens with media build trust and lift average repair order (ARO).
Trade-offs to consider
- Advanced analytics: Core reports cover the basics; highly customized metrics may still require exports to Sheets/BI.
- App marketplace maturity: If you rely on niche plugins, verify availability and roadmap.
- Multi-location depth: Roll-ups are solid for most growing shops, but complex enterprise reporting may need add-ons.
Who should choose Garage360.io
- Independent shops and growing multi-location operators that value speed, DVI-driven approvals, and low training overhead.
- Owners who want actionable dashboards without building a data stack.
Implementation tips
- Pre-build your playbook: Set up canned jobs, labor matrices, taxes/fees, and DVI templates (with required photo angles).
- Approval scripting: Add “why now/why later” notes to common jobs to improve one-message approvals.
- Measure the lift: Track ARO, approval rate, and tech efficiency at 30/60/90 days to quantify ROI and fine-tune matrices.
- Connect the dots: Pair Garage360.io with OEM-level diagnostics (e.g., PIWIS 3, GM MDI 2, JLR DoIP VCI, Ford VCM3) so tech notes and DVI evidence back up estimates and reduce comebacks.
Tekmetric — Best for Multi-Location Growth
Why we picked it
Tekmetric shines when you run more than one location and need the same playbook everywhere. It gives owners granular gross profit controls, consistent parts/labor matrices, and cross-store reporting so you can compare ARO, approval rate, and technician efficiency by shop, team, or time period.
Standout highlights
- DVI + Approvals: Clear photo/video inspections that convert to estimate lines, with SMS approvals and time-stamped audit trail.
- Technician Efficiency: Built-in clocking, flag hours vs. actual, bay utilization, and leaderboards to coach performance.
- Margin Rules: Parts and labor matrices with caps/floors ensure GP targets are hit, not guessed.
- Multi-location dashboards: Roll-up KPIs and per-store drill-downs, plus user permissions at group or store level.
- Integrations: QuickBooks, Carfax, common parts vendors/catalogs, payments.
Where it wins
- Standardizing processes across stores (menus, canned jobs, approval steps).
- Owner/GM insight without spreadsheet wrangling.
- Growth teams that need auditability and role-based permissions.
Trade-offs to consider
- The power features add learning curve for new advisors. Plan a structured onboarding and SOPs.
- Heavier reporting may require a data export for highly customized metrics.
Who should choose Tekmetric
- Groups building from 2→10 locations.
- Shops that manage strict GP and labor efficiency targets.
Implementation tips
- Build reusable canned jobs and parts/labor matrices before go-live.
- Create store-level dashboards that mirror your weekly ops meeting.
- Track post-launch KPIs: ARO, approval rate, tech efficiency, parts GP.
Shopmonkey — Best All-in-One Cloud with Strong Messaging
Why we picked it
Shopmonkey pairs a polished UI with scheduling, messaging, and payments, so advisors move from estimate → DVI → approval → payment without leaving the platform. It’s strong for shops that value customer communication as much as workflow.
Standout highlights
- Workflow: Estimates → DVI with media → customer approvals via SMS → invoice → payment links.
- Scheduling & Reminders: Drag-and-drop calendar, reminders, and resource visibility.
- Built-in Payments: Online links and card-on-file reduce checkout friction.
- Texting/CRM: Two-way messaging threads attached to the RO.
- Integrations: QuickBooks, parts vendors/catalogs, payments.
Where it wins
- Customer-facing polish and fewer tools to juggle.
- Fast adoption for teams that prefer a clean, modern interface.
Trade-offs to consider
- Tiered pricing: Ensure the plan you pick includes the integrations you need (accounting, specific parts vendors, multi-shop).
- Some advanced analytics may require exports if you want very specific operational KPIs.
Who should choose Shopmonkey
- Single or multi-shop operations that prioritize messaging, scheduling, and easy payments.
- Teams that want quick advisor onboarding.
Implementation tips
- Map current SMS touchpoints (drop-off, DVI sent, ready for pickup) and recreate them as templates.
- Set payment rules (deposits for big ROs, card-on-file for fleets).
Shop-Ware — Best for Digital Approvals and Customer Portal
Why we picked it
Shop-Ware excels at transparent approvals. Customers see a clear timeline with photos/videos and line-item context, which lifts approval rate without phone tag. The customer portal is one of the best for clarity.
Standout highlights
- DVI + Customer Portal: Media-rich approvals with a consumer-friendly UI.
- Real-time Visibility: Status updates that reduce “is my car done?” calls.
- SOPs & Notes: Capture shop procedures and attach them to jobs for consistency.
- Integrations: QuickBooks, common parts sources, Carfax, payments.
Where it wins
- Boosting approval speed and amount thanks to customer-friendly presentation.
- Shops that want to standardize SOPs and documentation.
Trade-offs to consider
- Reporting depth is solid, but ultra-custom KPIs may require exports/BI.
- Some owners want more native multi-shop roll-ups (still workable with process).
Who should choose Shop-Ware
- Customer experience-driven shops and Euro specialists who rely on detailed DVIs.
- Teams adopting SOP-based operations.
Implementation tips
- Build DVI templates with required photos for common jobs.
- Add “why now/why later” notes to lines to guide approvals.
AutoLeap — Best for Owner Visibility and CRM
Why we picked it
AutoLeap brings owner-level dashboards and built-in campaigns without bolt-ons. If you want operations + basic marketing in one place, it covers a lot of ground.
Standout highlights
- DVI & Approvals: Visual inspections that translate to revenue, with SMS authorization.
- CRM & Campaigns: Follow-ups, reminders, and simple retention campaigns.
- Owner Dashboards: ARO, approval rate, tech hours, and comeback tracking.
- Tech Time Tracking: Clock-on/clock-off from mobile or shop devices.
- Integrations: QuickBooks, payments, parts vendors.
Where it wins
- All-in-one visibility for owners who don’t want separate CRM tools.
- Solid post-service marketing without extra subscriptions.
Trade-offs to consider
- Feature-rich platform — set a clear onboarding plan and owners’ reporting requirements to avoid scope creep.
- If you already run a robust external CRM, ensure overlaps don’t create duplicate work.
Who should choose AutoLeap
- Growth-minded shops wanting operations + basic CRM in one subscription.
- Owners who want dashboards without building a BI stack.
Implementation tips
- Import customer/vehicle history cleanly so campaigns segment correctly.
- Define a monthly owner KPI cadence (ARO, approvals, GP, comebacks).
Mitchell 1 Manager SE — Best Legacy Depth on Windows
Why we picked it
Manager SE has decades of workflow depth and access to parts/labor data many advisors already know. If your front counter grew up on SE, adoption is quick.
Standout highlights
- Estimating & Catalogs: Deep parts/labor databases and estimating tools.
- Shop Reports: Mature operational reports familiar to long-time users.
- Ecosystem: Plays well with Mitchell’s information products and catalogs.
Where it wins
- Stability and familiarity for Windows-based shops.
- Advisors who live in legacy catalog workflows.
Trade-offs to consider
- Primarily Windows; mobile experience is limited versus pure cloud competitors.
- Cloud access/add-ons exist but may feel like bolt-ons compared to born-cloud tools.
Who should choose Manager SE
- Established shops comfortable on Windows, with advisors trained on Mitchell.
- Sites where on-prem solutions are preferred or required.
Implementation tips
- Plan data backups and remote access strategy.
- If adding cloud access, define which tasks stay on Windows vs web.
NAPA TRACS — Best Budget + NAPA Ecosystem
Why we picked it
TRACS delivers a solid RO/inventory workflow anchored to the NAPA parts network, making purchasing and stock control efficient—especially if you’re already in the ecosystem.
Standout highlights
- RO & Inventory: Reliable core workflow and purchasing.
- NAPA Integration: Direct ties for parts pricing, availability, and purchasing.
- Accounting: QuickBooks integration.
Where it wins
- Cost-effective option for shops loyal to NAPA with straightforward needs.
- Inventory control that fits NAPA purchasing habits.
Trade-offs to consider
- Windows-first UI feels traditional compared to newer cloud platforms.
- Fewer modern conveniences (mobile DVI, deep dashboards) out of the box.
Who should choose TRACS
- Budget-conscious shops in the NAPA ecosystem.
- Teams with stable processes that don’t need advanced analytics today.
Implementation tips
- Align parts workflows to NAPA purchasing rules to unlock speed.
- If adding mobile DVI via third-party, map data back into TRACS to avoid double entry.
The snapshot below uses publicly available info as of September 2025. Always confirm latest details with each vendor.
| Capability | Garage360 | Tekmetric | AutoLeap | Shopmonkey |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DVIs with photos/video | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Scheduling & capacity | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Parts/inventory workflows | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Payments & QBO-style sync | Yes | Available | Available | Available |
| Reviews/Comms automations | Yes | Available | Available | Available |
| Typical entry pricing | From $79/mo | 3rd-party listings show plans starting ~$179–$199 | From $179/mo | From $179/mo |
| Multi-shop support | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| AI Insights | Available | No | No | No |
Sources: AutoLeap pricing page and marketplaces list entry plans at $179/mo; Shopmonkey lists $179/mo entry plan; Tekmetric public pricing is commonly listed by third-party directories around $179–$199+ (confirm with vendor).
Why shops pick Garage360: diagnostics-grade workflows, fast RO→invoice paths, transparent parts margining, and implementation help from the TechRoute66 team that’s set up thousands of OEM tools.
How to choose the best auto repair management software (5 steps)
- Define your day-one wins. (e.g., DVI adoption, ARO lift, fewer no-shows)
- Map your data migration. Customers, vehicles, ROs, parts—what comes over and how? AutoLeap, Shopmonkey, and others advertise migration support; ask for specifics and timelines.
- Insist on a live workflow demo. Watch RO → DVI → parts → invoice → payment.
- Check integrations. Accounting, parts networks, review tools, texting, payments.
- Pilot with real jobs. Run 10–20 real tickets before rolling out to every bay.
ROI math (simple way to sanity-check)
If DVIs + reminders reduce no-shows by just 2 jobs/week and increase average approval by $75/job, a 5-tech shop can add $600–$1,000+ monthly gross profit—often covering the software outright. (Your mileage will vary, but the direction is consistent across shops adopting DVIs and better reminders.). Even a +10–15% improvement in approvals via DVI often pays for the system within weeks.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best auto repair management software for small shops?
Look for speed (fewest clicks), DVIs customers understand, simple payments, and clean reporting. Garage360 is built to minimize admin time while maximizing approvals—great for owner-operator shops. Try Garage360.
How much does auto repair management software cost?
Entry plans from leading vendors are commonly listed starting around $179/month, with higher tiers adding features like advanced reporting, automations, and multi-shop controls. Confirm final pricing with each vendor.
Will it work on tablets or iPads?
Most modern platforms are browser-based and work across devices; confirm device limits and simultaneous logins with your vendor. (AutoLeap specifies one active device per login.)
The bottom line
If you’re evaluating auto repair management software in 2025, focus on fewer clicks, better DVIs, clean parts margining, and accounting that doesn’t create extra work. That’s exactly what Garage360 was built to do.
👉 Ready to streamline your shop? Book a Garage360 demo
