Mobile car tune-up and basic servicing

Busy households, small businesses with a few work vehicles, and people who can't easily get to a workshop.

Fixed price per service or hourly labour, plus a margin on parts and fluids. Repeat customers return on a regular servicing schedule.

• Mechanical qualification or trade experience
• Using scan tools and hand tools
• Clear, honest customer communication

• Some states require a motor vehicle repairer licence or similar, check your state's licensing body
• Public liability insurance and cover for the work you do on customers' cars
• Safe collection and disposal of used oil and filters, check your local council and EPA rules
• Check whether working on the street or in apartment car parks is allowed
• Keep records so customers with new car warranties can show servicing was done properly

As an estimate, startup costs are typically around $8,000 to $30,000, depending on your van or ute, tools, scan equipment and insurance. Monthly revenue is typically around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on how many jobs you book and your pricing.

Check whether your state requires a motor vehicle repairer licence or similar. Also check public liability and work cover, used oil and filter disposal rules with your council and EPA, whether working on streets or apartment car parks is allowed, and servicing records.

Estimates suggest at least around 15 hours a week. Useful skills include a mechanical qualification or trade experience, using scan tools and hand tools, and clear, honest communication with customers.