Mobile car A/C repair and recharge

Commuters, busy households, small businesses with a few work vehicles, and used car dealers who want cars ready to sell.

A diagnostic fee, plus fixed prices for recharges and common repairs, with parts marked up. Small fleet clients can bring repeat work.

• Automotive repair or A/C diagnostics
• Reading pressure gauges and leak tests
• Customer service and clear quotes

• Check EPA Section 609 certification requirements and keep your records, since servicing vehicle A/C for pay generally requires it
• Newer cars often use a different refrigerant that needs its own equipment, so check what your equipment can legally and safely handle
• Check your state and city rules on refrigerant handling, mobile repair and business licenses
• General liability insurance, and garage keepers or tools coverage if you hold customers' vehicles
• Summer demand can be much stronger than winter, so plan cash flow

Startup costs are typically around $8,000 to $30,000, depending on the van, your A/C recovery and recharge equipment and your tools and parts stock. This is an estimate, so compare new and used equipment before you buy.

Monthly revenue is typically around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on how many jobs you book and what you charge. That is an estimate of revenue, not profit. Summer demand can be much stronger than winter, so plan your cash flow.

Check EPA Section 609 certification requirements and keep your records. Check which refrigerants your equipment can legally and safely handle, and your state and city rules on refrigerant handling, mobile repair and business licenses. Also check general liability and tools coverage.