Trade radiator repair for local garages

Independent garages, tire shops, towing firms and small fleet operators who want a quick local cooling system service.

Price per radiator repaired or recored, often with trade rates and regular monthly accounts with a few garages.

• Radiator repair and pressure testing
• Reliable turnaround times
• Building trade relationships

• Commercial general liability insurance and cover for customers' parts while in your care
• Waste antifreeze and solder must be handled and disposed of properly, check provincial and municipal rules
• Check zoning with your municipality before using any unit or home space for repair work
• Fumes and hot work: check ventilation, WHMIS training and WCB or WSIB rules if you hire
• A few big garage accounts can account for most of your income, so avoid relying on only one

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $10,000 to $35,000, depending on your unit, equipment and testing gear. A trade-only bay without a retail counter keeps the set-up lean, and the estimate is a guide rather than a quote.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $4,000 to $16,000, depending on how many garage accounts you win and how quickly you turn jobs around. A few big accounts can make up most of your income, so avoid relying on only one.

Check commercial general liability insurance and cover for customers' parts in your care. Also check provincial and municipal rules for waste antifreeze and solder, zoning for your unit, and ventilation, WHMIS training and WCB or WSIB rules if you hire.