Radiator repair and recore workshop
Run a small unit that repairs, tests and replaces radiators and cooling parts for drivers, garages and fleets.
- £8k-35k
- Full-time
- Own premises
Estimates for a small start in the UK, not guarantees.
What it is
A small workshop unit offering radiator repair and replacement, pressure testing, coolant flushes and cooling system fault finding, with the option to take trade work from other garages.
Your first three steps
- Find a small industrial unit or shared workshop nearby and check the lease terms and permitted use
- Price up a ramp or lifting equipment, a pressure test rig, coolant recovery kit and a starter stock of common radiators and hoses
- Visit independent garages and van fleets in your area to offer trade rates and quick turnaround
Who pays
Private car and van owners, independent garages without cooling system expertise, small fleets and courier firms.
How it makes money
Labour charges and parts markup on each job, plus trade work from garages and repeat fleet customers on agreed rates.
Skills that help
- Vehicle mechanics and cooling system diagnosis
- Pressure testing and basic repair of radiators
- Pricing jobs and managing parts stock
- Building relationships with local garages
Watch out for
- Check planning and permitted use for your premises with the council before signing a lease
- Public liability insurance and motor trade insurance, and employer's liability insurance if you hire staff
- Used coolant, oily waste and scrap radiators are regulated waste, so check how to store and dispose of them properly
- Business rates and rent can be significant, so check your costs before committing
- Vehicle lifting and hot, pressurised systems carry safety risks, so make sure equipment is certified and you follow safe working practices
Deep research report · UK
Everything you need to start: radiator repair and recore workshop
Researched with live web search for United Kingdom: real startup prices, the licences and rules, what others charge, a break-even example, how to find your first customers and a 30-day launch plan. With sources.
- Startup costs with real prices
- Licences, registration and rules
- Pricing: what others charge
- Break-even example
- Finding your first customers
- 30-day launch plan
- Risks and how to reduce them
Questions people ask
How much does it cost to start a radiator repair workshop?
Startup costs are typically around £8,000 to £35,000, depending on your unit, equipment and insurance. Rent and business rates can be significant, so check your costs before committing to a lease.
How much can a radiator repair workshop earn?
Monthly revenue is typically around £4,000 to £18,000, depending on your mix of private and trade customers and how many jobs you complete. These are estimates, not guarantees, and overheads will affect what you keep.
What should I check before opening a radiator repair workshop?
Check planning and permitted use for your premises with the council before signing a lease. Used coolant, oily waste and scrap radiators are regulated waste, so check how to store and dispose of them, and make sure lifting equipment is certified.
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