Radiator repair and recore workshop

Car, ute and van owners, small trade businesses with work vehicles, and mechanics who outsource cooling system jobs.

Fixed or quoted prices per repair or replacement, plus parts margin and flush-and-refill services. Regular work from local mechanics and fleets adds steady income.

• Mechanical aptitude or a motor trade background
• Soldering, pressure testing and careful fault finding
• Quoting honestly and explaining the problem to customers

• Check whether your state requires a motor vehicle repairer licence or registration
• Public liability and property insurance for customers' vehicles in your care
• Rules on handling and disposing of used coolant and waste oil, check with your state EPA and local council
• Check zoning and council approval for your workshop site

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on your unit, equipment and stock. Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on workload and pricing.

Check whether your state requires a motor vehicle repairer licence or registration, and arrange public liability and property insurance for customers' vehicles. Also check used coolant and waste oil rules with your state EPA and council, plus zoning and council approval for your site.

Mechanical aptitude or a motor trade background helps, along with soldering, pressure testing and careful fault finding. You also need to quote honestly and explain problems clearly. Estimates suggest at least about 35 hours a week.