How to Start a Mobile Mechanic Business in 7 Steps and Land Your First Paying Customers Fast

If you’re great at fixing cars but sick of working for someone else, starting a mobile mechanic business could be your way out.

The good news? You don’t need a workshop or a huge investment to get rolling. But you do need to handle the legal stuff, gear up properly, price your services smartly, and market yourself in a way that gets noticed.

This guide walks you through everything step by step so you can launch quickly—and start making money from day one.

Step 1 – Handle the Legal Stuff Early So You’re Not Scrambling Later

Before you touch a customer’s car, get your paperwork sorted. Skipping this step might save you time now but will cost you later.

• Register your business. A company structure like a sole trader or PTY LTD can affect tax and liability. Speak with an accountant to see what best fits your needs.
• Sort licences and permits – Some states require trade certifications for mobile mechanics. Check with your local council or government portal.
• Get insured – You’ll need public liability insurance and cover for your work vehicle. Don’t risk working without it.
• Open a business bank account. Separating business and personal finances is a must, especially when tax time rolls around.
• Apply for an ABN and TFN—If you’re operating as a sole trader, you’ll need an Australian Business Number (ABN), and a Tax File Number (TFN).

After getting this sorted from day one, you are legit and ready to trade like a professional.

Step 2 – Set Up Your Ute or Van with the Right Tools and Storage

Your ute or van is your mobile workshop, so it needs to be practical and organised. A messy setup slows you down and makes jobs harder than they should be.

Start with a reliable vehicle that has enough space to carry your tools and parts. Fit it out with shelving, toolboxes, or drawers to prevent everything from flying around while you’re on the road. Time wasted rummaging for a socket is time you’re not earning.

You should have your essential tools onboard: a diagnostic scanner, impact wrench, jack stands, battery tester, and hand tools. 

Keep common parts like spark plugs, filters, and fuses on hand so you won’t have to run to the parts store mid-job. 

Remember to use a power source like a portable generator or high-capacity battery system so you can get stuck no matter where the job is.

Step 3 – Nail Your Pricing So You’re Making Money (and Not Just Burning Fuel)

Price yourself too cheap, and you’ll barely cover your petrol. Go too high, and customers will look elsewhere. The goal is to charge what you’re worth without scaring people off.

• Use hourly rates or flat fees depending on the job – Flat rates work well for diagnostics or standard services. Bigger jobs might suit an hourly rate.
• Check out local pricing – Look at what other mobile mechanics and workshops charge. Stay competitive, but don’t sell yourself short.
• Factor in travel time – Time on the road adds up. Include a call-out fee or build travel into your pricing.
• Be upfront – No one likes surprise charges. Always give a clear estimate before starting the job.
• Use discounts wisely – A first-time customer discount is a great way to build loyalty, but don’t turn it into a race to the bottom.

You’ll need to trial and tweak your pricing, but once it’s dialled in, you’ll be turning jobs into solid profits.

Step 4 – Make It Easy for People to Pay You

Nobody wants to fumble for cash in 2025. If you don’t offer modern payment options, you’ll lose business—simple as that.

Set yourself up with card readers from Square, Zeller or PayPal Zettle so you can pay on the spot. 

Offer invoicing for trade clients or fleet services, and make sure you track everything using accounting software like Xero, QuickBooks or Wave.

For larger jobs, ask for a deposit upfront. It’s not rude—it’s standard. This helps reduce cancellations and gives customers some skin in the game.

Step 5 – Market Yourself Without Spending a Fortune

No one can hire you if they don’t know you exist. But you don’t need to throw money at ads to get your first customers.

Start by setting up a free Google Business Profile. That way, when someone searches “mobile mechanic near me”, your name comes up. Then, build a simple Facebook or Instagram page to share repair pics, customer testimonials, and quick car care tips.

Drop off flyers or cards at local auto parts shops—people already there likely need your services. Partner with roadside assistance providers or towing companies—they often refer drivers looking for mobile repairs. 

And join local Facebook groups or community apps like Nextdoor. You’ll find people asking for help with their cars every week.

Should You Run Facebook or Google Ads?

Eventually, yes—but not right away.

Facebook Ads are great for getting your name out in the community, but they take trial and error. Google Ads are better for people who need help right now, but they’re more expensive.

Focus on free methods first. Once you’ve got a few jobs and some reviews, start experimenting with paid ads.

Word-of-mouth is Still King. Here’s How to Get Referrals Faster

Your best customers will bring you more customers—if you give them a reason to.

Ask for a Google review after every job. Offer a small referral discount for anyone who sends a new customer your way. And keep in touch. 

A simple message every few months offering a quick service or check-up keeps you at the top of your mind.

Step 6 – Get Ahead of Problems Before They Slow You Down

Things won’t always go as planned, but some prep now saves you headaches later.

Weather turns bad? Keep a canopy or awning onboard. Cancellations? Add a late fee for short-notice no-shows. Slow week? Call a few local used car dealers—many need regular help prepping trade-ins for resale.

And yes, tricky customers will pop up. Be polite but firm. Not every job is worth the drama.

How to Handle Difficult Customers Like a Pro

Have clear terms and stick to them. Get agreements in writing, be honest about what you can (and can’t) do onsite, and trust your gut. If someone seems off—walk away. You’re building a sustainable business, not doing favours.

Step 7 – Land Paying Customers Fast Without Waiting Months

You don’t need to “build a brand” for six months before you get your first job.

Offer launch-week specials to draw attention. Chat with local towies, courier drivers, or rideshare drivers—they rely on their vehicles and need a mechanic they can trust. 

Fleet managers, rental companies, and small businesses that operate vehicles often prefer mobile mechanics. Get your name in front of them early.

Every job you do is a chance to earn the next one.

Turning Spanners into Cash: Get Moving Now

There’s no shortage of work if you’re willing to put yourself out there.

This business isn’t complicated—but it does reward mechanics who are organised, professional, and prepared to get a bit scrappy in the early days. Set up your tools, sort your legal and payments, get out into your local community, and start booking jobs.

Don’t wait for everything to be perfect. Pick one or two actions from this guide and start this week. Your first paying customer might only be one phone call, post, or handshake away.

Get going—and get paid.