In 2022, the demand from retail customers for a mobile mechanic was relatively low but as the effects of the pandemic filtered through and consumers began to utilise online resources in every aspect of their lives including managing their vehicle service and maintenance needs, demand in 2023 was at an exponential rate.
Once the initial spurt stabilised, the demand for mobile mechanic services continued to gather pace with an increase in bookings through the platform of 22% in 2024 compared to 2023.
The trend in the BookMyGarage data is reflected in the growth of Google searches for mobile mechanics which has leapt by 300% since 2020.
Whilst bookings for mobile mechanics remain a modest percentage of overall retail customer bookings on the BookMyGarage platform, which serves independent garages as well as the franchised network, the trend for mobile mechanic services continues to increase with the share in 2023 at 3.6% and 4.2% in 2024.
BookMyGarage is now further driving demand with the introduction of a bespoke package designed specifically for mobile mechanics.
Jessica Potts, chief marketing officer at BookMyGarage, said: “We saw a massive rise in consumers embracing online services during the pandemic so it’s inevitable these trends have intensified. It’s hugely convenient to have a mechanic come to your home, especially if you’re a hybrid worker or have caring responsibilities, and we have seen demand gather pace significantly in the last two years.
“We’re now looking to expand our portfolio of nationwide mobile mechanics and give motorists even more choice whilst also providing mobile mechanics with a straightforward and risk-free method for them to expand and gain exposure for their business.”
As the UK’s leading comparison site for MOTs and servicing, more than 18 million drivers have compared garages on BookMyGarage to book services, repairs and MOTs. The platform operates in the same way for mobile mechanics who will receive actual bookings and only pay the fee once the appointment has been completed. The customer pays the mobile mechanic direct for the total value of the work with communication solely between the two parties. Any additional work is also arranged between the business and the customer.
The BookMyGarage package has been specifically designed for mobile mechanics who want to gain brand exposure for their business locally and an instant stream of bookings. Mobile mechanics benefit from a directory listing on the site and are featured in searches for mobile mechanics within their local area. Within the package, their specialist marketing team will also design and build a mobile-responsive, SEO-optimised website dedicated to the mobile mechanic’s own brand and services to boost online presence whilst customers are encouraged to leave reviews to enhance online reputation.
The package also gives mobile mechanics access to the BookMyGarage industry-leading online booking tool to embed on their website, developed to turn more searches into bookings. BookMyGarage does not charge a commission for bookings made via the garage’s own website. To ensure the mobile mechanic’s brand is present on social channels, the team can also post agreed content to the business’ own Facebook page. Any interested parties who don’t have a website or even a logo, BookMyGarage can provide these too.
With complete control over availability, lead times and pricing, BookMyGarage offers guaranteed results with its pay-on-success model.