The role of an auto mechanic has evolved to keep up with the technological advances of modern cars. Some years back, the work required to fix the cars was quite basic.
The older cars primarily relied on mechanics for their work. However, the latest cars are now incorporated with a range of sensors and electrical components required to be in pristine condition for normal working of the car.
Car manufacturers are continuously innovating the levels of technology they use in their cars, due to which the role of the car mechanic has shifted from relying only on hands to being led by the results of complex computer diagnostics.
As the technological advancements in the motor industry continue, there is a rapid progression to fully electric cars. This means that car technicians will have to stay up-to-date with their training and skills to understand the complexities of these vehicles.
However, even when there is a range of modernities, some things are still the same and haven’t really changed over time. For example, if your vehicle’s brake pads are worn, then only a mechanic can change it.
The same is the case with suspension or when the overall repair of an engine is done. These are some aspects where the expertise of a traditional mechanic comes into play.
Benefits of Incorporating Technology for Automotive Repair Shops
Let’s look at some of the top benefits and reasons why auto repair mechanic needs to adopt technologies to stay competitive.
Boosts Efficiency and Productivity
When you incorporate the latest technology in your workshop, you automatically boost productivity.
The workshops can automate tasks like client scheduling, invoicing from Google Sheets templates, record keeping, and payments. By automating these routine tasks, the workshop owners can save time and utilize it for doing something more productive.
Efficient Inventory Management
Managing inventory is a challenging task for the workshop owners. A simple software can track all the inventory levels and generate responses to shortages. Some of the latest software can directly notify the vendors so they can deliver the required auto parts to the workshop.
Automation has a direct impact on customer retention. It allows you to maintain customer preferences and streamline your services accordingly.
Digital Vehicle Inspection Software
Modern auto repair shops offer digital vehicle inspection systems, which can help them boost the efficiency of their services.
The digital vehicle inspection technology allows the mechanics to conduct inspections of customer vehicles electronically. It is significantly helpful for customers who are not able to tell what is wrong with their car.
This software can create accurate recommendations for customers to fix any problems with their cars. These software are a significantly better replacement for manual reports created by mechanics as they have room for doubt.
What Are Modern Technologies Used in Workshops?
As discussed, the modern workshops have a lot more to offer. These are some of the latest technologies auto repair workshops have incorporated to maximize their efficiency.
Augmented Reality Headsets
As augmented reality has revolutionized the world of gaming, now it’s making its way towards auto repair shops. These headsets have become a popular tool for maintenance and quality control.
The mechanics insert a camera into the engine bay or suspension and experience a full 3-D look at all components to identify any underlying problems easily.
The augmented reality headsets, when combined with inspection software, prove wonders and allow technicians to pinpoint hidden problems and plan effective measures to fix them effectively.
Role of Robots
The use of robots in modern auto repair shops has boosted in recent years. These robots are not like the traditional ones who work behind barriers; they are designed to work collaboratively with humans.
They are equipped with advanced sensors and algorithms that empower them to detect the underlying problems in the vehicle.
In auto repair shops, they are used for lifting heavy materials, unloading items, fixing vehicle components where human hands can’t reach easily, and much more.
Air Conditioning Machine
The car’s air-conditioning system has a range of important functions other than just keeping the passengers comfortable.
However, the AC can stop working due to various problems that include loss of refrigerant gas; compressor stops working, or leakage in the hoses of the AC system.
Finding the right problem could be challenging for the mechanic; that’s where the air conditioning machine steps in.
It helps the technician to identify the underlying problems with the AC. Moreover, it is used to recover and recharge the refrigerant gas easily.
Hydraulic Jack
This is a common machine used in almost every other workshop. However, some auto repair workshops still lack a hydraulic jack. It is used to safely lift the car, check the suspension system, and make any repairs.
It is also used to lift the cars for routine oil change. By using this, the mechanic doesn’t have to crawl under the engine bay to change the oil; he can easily open the nut while standing under the jack.