Wheel Alignment Shop

Everyday drivers, rideshare drivers, tire shops and repair garages that don't have a rack, and small local businesses with work vehicles.

A flat price per alignment, often with a higher price for trucks or vehicles needing extra adjustment. Add-ons include tire rotation, worn-part replacement and repeat checks for regular customers.

• Automotive mechanical knowledge
• Comfortable reading alignment machine data
• Customer service and clear explanations
• Basic bookkeeping

• Zoning and lease terms that allow automotive work
• Garage liability and garagekeepers insurance to cover customers' vehicles, check with an insurance broker
• State auto repair registration or licensing requirements, which vary, check your state
• Rack space, ceiling height and floor strength needs
• Environmental rules for disposing of used parts and fluids, check locally
• Workers' compensation insurance once you hire

Estimates suggest startup costs typically run around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on your alignment rack, premises, lease and insurance. Check rack space, ceiling height and floor strength needs before choosing a location.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on location, pricing and how many vehicles you service. A starting estimate for time commitment is at least about 35 hours a week.

Check zoning and lease terms that allow automotive work, and your state's auto repair registration or licensing requirements. Also check garage liability and garagekeepers insurance, local rules on disposing of used parts and fluids, and workers' compensation once you hire.