Mobile Small Engine Repair Business
Fix lawnmowers, snowblowers, generators and chainsaws at customers' homes and properties.
- C$3k-12k
- Side hustle
- Out and about
Estimates for a small start in Canada, not guarantees.
What it is
A van or trailer-based repair service that services and fixes petrol engines on site: tune-ups, carburetor cleaning, blade sharpening, spark plugs, and basic fault finding.
Your first three steps
- Take a small engine repair course or work alongside a repairer, and practise on used machines to build confidence
- Price a basic tool kit and a reliable vehicle, then set a call-out fee and hourly rate by checking local shops
- Offer spring tune-ups to neighbours and local landscapers, and ask for online reviews
Who pays
Homeowners, cottage owners, small landscaping crews, farms and property managers who don't want to haul heavy equipment to a shop.
How it makes money
A call-out fee plus an hourly labour rate, with parts marked up. Seasonal tune-up packages work well: mowers in spring, snowblowers in fall.
Skills that help
- Mechanical aptitude with petrol engines
- Diagnosing faults methodically
- Clear, honest customer communication
Watch out for
- Commercial general liability insurance, and cover for your tools and vehicle
- Safe handling and storage of fuel, oil and old parts; check municipal and provincial rules for disposal
- Check whether your municipality requires a business licence for mobile services
- Strong seasonality: plan for slow winters or switch to snowblowers and generators
🔒 Full research report for Canada
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 a mobile small engine repair business in Canada?
Estimates put startup costs at typically around $3,000 to $12,000 CAD, depending on your van or trailer, tools and parts stock. Your own vehicle, tool choices and the equipment you plan to service will move you within that range.
How much revenue can a mobile small engine repair business make?
Estimates suggest monthly revenue of typically around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on how many jobs you take and the season. Plan on at least about 10 hours a week. Winters can be slow, so consider snowblowers and generators.
What should I check before starting a mobile engine repair service?
Check whether your municipality requires a business licence for mobile services. Also check commercial general liability insurance, with cover for your tools and vehicle, and municipal and provincial rules for safely handling, storing and disposing of fuel, oil and old parts.
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