Exhaust fitting and repair workshop
Run a small workshop fitting and repairing exhausts and mufflers for local car, ute and van owners.
- A$30k-120k
- Full-time
- Own premises
- Licence or permit needed
Estimates for a small start in Australia, not guarantees.
What it is
A small workshop with a hoist and a pipe bender, replacing mufflers, catalytic converters and exhaust pipes, and repairing leaks. Many centres also make custom bent exhausts to suit older or modified vehicles.
Your first three steps
- Price up a lease on a small industrial unit and check the council's zoning allows vehicle repair
- Get quotes for a hoist, pipe bender, welder and a starter stock of common mufflers and pipe fittings
- Introduce yourself to local mechanics, tyre shops and fleet operators and offer to take their exhaust overflow work
Who pays
Everyday drivers, ute and van owners, tradies, small fleets, and car enthusiasts after performance or custom work.
How it makes money
Charges for parts and labour per job, with a markup on parts. Fleet customers, mechanics who send you work, and custom pipework add steady repeat income.
Skills that help
- Welding and metal fabrication
- Vehicle mechanical knowledge
- Quoting and customer service
Watch out for
- Check whether your state or territory requires a motor vehicle repairer licence or registration
- Public liability, property and tools insurance, plus workers compensation once you hire staff
- Noise limits and rules on modifying emissions equipment such as catalytic converters or DPFs, check with your state's road authority and EPA
- Safe disposal of old parts and waste, and fire and burn risks from welding and hot work
- Zoning and council approval for the premises
🔒 Full research report for Australia
Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.
Coming soonQuestions people ask
How much does it cost to start an exhaust workshop in Australia?
Startup costs are typically estimated at around $30,000 to $120,000, depending on your premises, the hoist and pipe bender you buy, parts stock, insurance and fit-out. Treat this as an estimate and get your own quotes for equipment and premises.
How much can an exhaust fitting workshop earn?
Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on your location, how much custom work you do, staffing and how many customers you attract. This is revenue, not profit. Full-time running is typically around 38 hours a week.
What licences and rules should I check for an exhaust workshop?
Check whether your state or territory requires a motor vehicle repairer licence or registration. Also check noise limits and rules on modifying emissions equipment, zoning and council approval, waste disposal, and insurance, including workers compensation once you hire staff.
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